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Linda King Newell

Mormon Enigma: Emma Hale Smith

"Mormon Enigma: Emma Hale Smith" by Linda King Newell is a comprehensive and insightful biography of the first wife of Joseph Smith, the founder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The book provides a detailed account of Emma's life, from her childhood in rural Pennsylvania to her death in 1879, and explores her complex relationship with her husband, her role in the early Mormon church, and her own religious beliefs. Newell, a respected historian and a member of the Mormon church herself, draws on a wide range of primary sources, including letters, diaries, and contemporary accounts, to create a rich and nuanced portrait of Emma. The book covers Emma's early life, her courtship and marriage to Joseph Smith, and her experiences as a leader in the Mormon community, including her role as a plural wife and her eventual separation from the church. One of the strengths of "Mormon Enigma" is its balanced and even-handed approach to its subject. Newell does not shy away from discussing the controversies and challenges that Emma faced, but she also acknowledges her many accomplishments and her significant contributions to the Mormon faith. The book is also notable for its exploration of the tensions between Emma's personal beliefs and her role as a leader in the church, and for its examination of the ways in which women's experiences and contributions have been marginalized within Mormon history. Overall, "Mormon Enigma" is a valuable and important contribution to the field of Mormon studies. It is a meticulously researched and thoughtfully written biography that sheds new light on the life and experiences of a key figure in Mormon history. Whether you are a scholar of Mormonism, a member of the church, or simply interested in learning more about this important religious movement, "Mormon Enigma" is a must-read...