3.5 stars. This book was a mixed bag for me. I hated some parts and liked others. Props to Mr. Card for writing about a subject most don't even want to talk about. I did have a hard time because I usually listen to books and this is one that I felt I couldn't listen to with my littles around.

I think Orson Scott Card bit off a little more than he could chew in attempting this book. Did his faith compel him to write this story? Does he think he's found a way to fictionalize the last few years of Joseph Smith's life that would offer some lessons or guidance which were lacking in his actual life? Or was this written for pure entertainment? For me, it failed on that front as well because the main characters stopped being interesting the second they converted to Mormonism.
It was fascinating to read about the impact the principle of polygamy had on the early Church. That's about it.

I had high hopes for this book as I've read and enjoyed most of Mr. Cards other work. I thought this would be an inspirational story about the grit and courage of our amazing pioneers - not so much. Though the storyline was compelling for a time, as I read, I found that the content became increasingly coarse, vulgar and crude and stopped reading. I would not recommend this book.

A little religiousy for me but still very engaging