Mostly OK historical novel about LDS pioneers. Some controversial parts, if I remember right. ( )

To those that read this: It is historical fiction. The main character and family members are fictional, as is the storyteller at the beginning of each chapter. However: I can see many things that have been pulled from the lives of well know real life latter-day saints of the period. I kept having to remind myself throughout the book that it was fiction! My hat is off to Card for the masterful telling of a story. Warning: some LDS members may be uncomfortable with the portrayals in the story of events and the characterizations of the non-fictional characters. I found it to be much more believable because of the faults, and struggles that are ascribed to Joseph Smith and other early saints. I truly enjoyed learning more about the history of United States and its Mormon pioneers. It was an informative and enjoyable book. ( )

An interesting historical novel with quite a bit of insight into how the people and saints in England were during the 1830's - 1840's. Also interesting discussion and perspective of polygamy practiced by the early saints. ( )

A very interesting perspective on the place of polygamy early in LDS history, following the story of Dinah Kirkham and her family from their conversion in industrial Manchester, to their decision to move to frontier America and the city of Nauvoo. Well written, and compelling, as always with Orson Scott Card. Especially interesting was the imaginary author "O. Kirkham," offering modern perspective about his ancestors. ( )

It wasn't my favorite Orson Scott Card novel but after reading this fanciful, glossed-over version about the origins of one of Christianity's most successful, bizarre and ridiculous cults, I was almost convinced that polygamy was godly and that Native Americans were lost Israelis.

Better works by Card: Wyrms, Worthing Saga, Pastwatch...

He still earns stars because the man can narrate a story... ( )