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The Work and the Glory #3
Truth Will Prevail
Truth Will Prevail — the eagerly awaited third volume in the popular series The Work and the Glory — continues the gripping story of the fictional Steed family, a family acquainted with Joseph Smith and caught up in the grand events associated with the restoration of the Church of Jesus Christ to the earth.
Covering the years 1836 to 1838, this volume finds the Steed involved in both remarkable and turbulent events in Church history. Nathan accompanies Parley P. Pratt on a challenging mission to Upper Canada. Jessica, Joshua's ex-wife, feels compelled to return to Missouri, where the Church seeks a new haven in an area known as Far West. Meanwhile, Joshua — ever restless and ambitious, yet haunted by the misdeeds of his past — travels to Savannah, Georgia, on business and there has experiences that will dramatically alter his life. Tensions between Melissa and her nonmember husband, Carl, force her to make a critical decision. A growing spirit of apostasy in Kirtland threatens the fledging Church, a spirit from which even the Steed family is not immune. In the middle of these intense days of rebellion and disaffection in Kirtland, the divine call comes to open the work in the first mission overseas — England.
These and other important happenings (as well as the introduction of several new and fascinating characters) make this volume rich in drama and historical detail. As with the previous volumes in the series, readers will be intrigued by descriptions of actual, and sometimes little-known, events in Church history. And they will be moved as the author portrays the true-to-life struggles, heartaches, and joys of the Steed family, whose lives exemplify the faith expressed by many of the early Saints that God's purposes in these latter days — his truth and his restored church — will ultimately prevail.
560 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1992
About the author
Gerald N. Lund
64 books714 followersGerald N. Lund received his B.A. and M.S. degrees in sociology from Brigham Young University. He served for thirty-five years in the Church Educational System, and he served as a member of the Second Quorum of the Seventy from 2002 to 2008. He is a prolific and bestselling author of both fiction and nonfiction and is best known for his historical novels, including The Work and the Glory series, Fire of the Covenant, The Kingdom and the Crown series, and The Undaunted. He and his late wife, Lynn, are the parents of seven children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
March 10, 2012
"Emma don't pick up that book!" my mom said as I reached for the book. "Is your homework done? Is your bed made? Did you clean your room?" She would quiz me like I was sitting on the wittness stand in court, before I could even pick up the book. Because she knew that once I picked it up I wouldn't be doing anything unless I had to. Once I started the first book of this series I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next.
This book covers early church history from the years 1836 to 1838. Altough the main charcters, the Steed family, of this book are fictional, the events and people they assoicate with are not. Lund did an amazing job to entertwain the actual and fake things together. Some of the things that happen to the Steeds are things that happen to real people, but the author writes it to fit the story. That is why it is so nice that at the end of the book the author has notes about each chapter and about what really happened and to whom it happened.
This book starts out with the Steed family and most of the Saints living in Kirtland Ohio. Many of the Saints are getting called on missions. They open a mission in Canada and sends missionaries there to preach the gospel. Many of the Canadians who joined the church came to Kirtland. After awhile they send missionaries to England to start the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Many of the missionaries they send are those who joined the church in Canada.
When the Saints become persecuted in Kirtland the members are told to move to Far West Missouri. Many left as soon as they could to get away from those who are totally against the church, and are out to murder the members. Almost all the Saints are gone out of Kirtland and gathering together in Far West. The flat dirtland out Far West quickly changes to a very large city in the matter of months.
In the first book of the series the Steeds are separted from there oldest son. After eleven years of being apart from him. The Steed family is reunited with their son and brother, when Joshua Steed and his wife learn that his family is in Far West, Joshua refuses to go and see them. His wife, Caroline, feels totally different about it and takes their kids to go meet the family. While she is there Joshua's brother, Nathan, goes to Independance to speak with his brother. He convinces his brother to go back with him to Far West and there they are reunited with the family.
I have loved these series and loved to read the unquie way they author put this together. This has been a great way for me to learn the history of my church and what they had to go through when they stood up for what they believed and knew for themselves was the truth. I have enjoied reading these books, and would highly recomend them to anyone who.
This book covers early church history from the years 1836 to 1838. Altough the main charcters, the Steed family, of this book are fictional, the events and people they assoicate with are not. Lund did an amazing job to entertwain the actual and fake things together. Some of the things that happen to the Steeds are things that happen to real people, but the author writes it to fit the story. That is why it is so nice that at the end of the book the author has notes about each chapter and about what really happened and to whom it happened.
This book starts out with the Steed family and most of the Saints living in Kirtland Ohio. Many of the Saints are getting called on missions. They open a mission in Canada and sends missionaries there to preach the gospel. Many of the Canadians who joined the church came to Kirtland. After awhile they send missionaries to England to start the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Many of the missionaries they send are those who joined the church in Canada.
When the Saints become persecuted in Kirtland the members are told to move to Far West Missouri. Many left as soon as they could to get away from those who are totally against the church, and are out to murder the members. Almost all the Saints are gone out of Kirtland and gathering together in Far West. The flat dirtland out Far West quickly changes to a very large city in the matter of months.
In the first book of the series the Steeds are separted from there oldest son. After eleven years of being apart from him. The Steed family is reunited with their son and brother, when Joshua Steed and his wife learn that his family is in Far West, Joshua refuses to go and see them. His wife, Caroline, feels totally different about it and takes their kids to go meet the family. While she is there Joshua's brother, Nathan, goes to Independance to speak with his brother. He convinces his brother to go back with him to Far West and there they are reunited with the family.
I have loved these series and loved to read the unquie way they author put this together. This has been a great way for me to learn the history of my church and what they had to go through when they stood up for what they believed and knew for themselves was the truth. I have enjoied reading these books, and would highly recomend them to anyone who.
July 29, 2011
I was somewhat resistant to the idea of reading these books - I didn't take the time to really see what they were all about, I just assumed that since they seemed so 'trendy' at the time, they would probably be 'light' reading or even 'corny.' I was SO wrong... and I'm SO glad that I realized that if my mom was enjoying them so much and recommending them to me, they must be worthwhile.
This series, along with the Kent Family Chronicles (by John Jakes, about the United States), made me fall in love with historical fiction. In this case, it was not only my knowledge of Church history events that was increased, but my understanding of those events. When I read about all of the people and events in story form, chronological order, and in a cultural and historical context, I felt that I had a much clearer 'big picture' than ever before. Reading this series was such a wonderful way to increase both my knowledge of the Church and my testimony of the gospel.
This series, along with the Kent Family Chronicles (by John Jakes, about the United States), made me fall in love with historical fiction. In this case, it was not only my knowledge of Church history events that was increased, but my understanding of those events. When I read about all of the people and events in story form, chronological order, and in a cultural and historical context, I felt that I had a much clearer 'big picture' than ever before. Reading this series was such a wonderful way to increase both my knowledge of the Church and my testimony of the gospel.
February 28, 2021
For this month’s book review, I decided to read The Work and the Glory: Truth Shall Prevail, by Gerald Lund. I enjoyed reading the book for several reasons. First, I read and loved the first two books. Second, it was just as good as the first two. I enjoyed how the events in the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints were connected to those of the fictional threads of the story, such as Jessica’s involvement in Missouri. Lund’s excessive detail in some of the well-known events of the previously mentioned Church is thrilling when mixed with his fictional characters. I especially enjoyed this since I have heard of several stories similar to the ones the previously mentioned characters carry. This is especially evident when Nathan leaves on his mission to Canada with several other famous leaders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I thoroughly enjoyed the cliffhangers in the book, as they were well written, such as when Caroline walks up to Nathan’s door and introduces herself. I gave this book a five star rating due to how intricately it was woven into the history of the Latter-Day Saints.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2021
I am LOVING this series so much! This book was incredible. The ending brought me to tears; can’t wait to pick up book 4.
July 20, 2021
I loved reading this book so much!!!! I finished it around 1 am crying. Happy tears though.
February 3, 2017
Sam Huff
Mrs. Wyckhuyse
English Language Arts 9
February 2, 2017
Book Review #5
The third book in the Work and the Glory series is one of the most fascinating and historical novels that I have ever read. This 560 page book written by Gerald N. Lund had me turning the pages late into the night. The captivating description keeps you reading and the setting is amazing. One of the many reasons the setting is so great is because every setting is a real place somewhere. “...Kirtland as a town… Kirtland as a place for Latter Day Saints. ” Kirtland is a real place, believe it or not, and half the story takes place in it, which makes the story so much richer.
In this book, the Storm family is still recovering after Joshua leaves them and joins the Missouri mobs. The Steed family makes their way to Kirtland along with the rest of the mormons and start to settle there. But tensions rise in the church and many apostles start turning against each other. Many people lose faith in Joseph Smith, and leave the church. But that is only necessary for the trip to Rocky Mountains that only the faithful will be able to endure. In this book, the apostles fight one another and almost tear the entire reason they are in Kirtland apart. As if that isn’t enough, Joshua and the mobs are trying to push out the mormons more than ever. One strong literary element in this book is the character that is shown by all of the Steed family. Each individual person has their own personality, and you get to know them better and better throughout the story. “Nathan didn’t flinch, did not so much as even blink. He just stood his ground, awaiting the blow. Joshua started the swing, but at the sight of those eyes, watching him without fear or anger, he pulled up.” As you can see, there is so much more to these characters than just names. Each person learns and grows throughout the entire book series, and that is exactly what makes a good book.
I really like this book, and I would recommend it to anyone who has any questions about church history, or is even just mildly fascinated. If you do read this book you will like it and know that you made a good selection.
Mrs. Wyckhuyse
English Language Arts 9
February 2, 2017
Book Review #5
The third book in the Work and the Glory series is one of the most fascinating and historical novels that I have ever read. This 560 page book written by Gerald N. Lund had me turning the pages late into the night. The captivating description keeps you reading and the setting is amazing. One of the many reasons the setting is so great is because every setting is a real place somewhere. “...Kirtland as a town… Kirtland as a place for Latter Day Saints. ” Kirtland is a real place, believe it or not, and half the story takes place in it, which makes the story so much richer.
In this book, the Storm family is still recovering after Joshua leaves them and joins the Missouri mobs. The Steed family makes their way to Kirtland along with the rest of the mormons and start to settle there. But tensions rise in the church and many apostles start turning against each other. Many people lose faith in Joseph Smith, and leave the church. But that is only necessary for the trip to Rocky Mountains that only the faithful will be able to endure. In this book, the apostles fight one another and almost tear the entire reason they are in Kirtland apart. As if that isn’t enough, Joshua and the mobs are trying to push out the mormons more than ever. One strong literary element in this book is the character that is shown by all of the Steed family. Each individual person has their own personality, and you get to know them better and better throughout the story. “Nathan didn’t flinch, did not so much as even blink. He just stood his ground, awaiting the blow. Joshua started the swing, but at the sight of those eyes, watching him without fear or anger, he pulled up.” As you can see, there is so much more to these characters than just names. Each person learns and grows throughout the entire book series, and that is exactly what makes a good book.
I really like this book, and I would recommend it to anyone who has any questions about church history, or is even just mildly fascinated. If you do read this book you will like it and know that you made a good selection.
Read
April 14, 2017Truth will Prevail by Gerald N. Lund is a good book. This book follows the lives of the fictional Steed family. Nathan is sent on a mission with Parley P. Pratt to upper Canada. Jessica the former wife of Joshua Steed has live with the Steed family but wants to leave and go to Missouri. Joshua is trying to start over his like by going to Savannah in Georgia to start a new business and finds something that will change his life forever. The family is living with the saints and fighting any problems that may com their way. I liked this book. This book is the third book in the Work and the Glory series. I have read the first and second and I thought they were okay. They were not my favorite books. Now that I am reading the third one I really like it. I like that it follows one family and puts together a fun story. I am not a huge fan of nonfiction books. I believe that Gerald N. Lund did a good job with his characters. They feel so real. HIs writing style is also very good. When I read this book I feel like I am there and part of the steed family. The details are really good too. What they are wearing what they look like, and their emotions are. In one part Joshua is very angry and is ready to punch Nathan. It says that his chest is heaving and his whole body was trembling. Nathan is just standing there waiting for the punch there was no fear in Nathan’s eyes. I love that description of what was happening.
February 7, 2009
Years 1836-1838
Includes Kirtland Temple dedication, Parley P. Pratt’s mission to Canada (where a branch is organized) where he meets and converts John Taylor and Joseph, Mary and Mercy Fielding. This volume also covers the failure of the Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company, major apostasy in the church (including the excommunication of Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer- all Three Witnesses), Heber C Kimball's (and companions) mission to England (where another branch is organized), and the revelation on Adam-Ondi-Ahman. The book ends with the apostates taking over the temple and the removal of the all (faithful) Saints from Kirtland to Far West, Missouri.
533 pages, 2009 total 2766
Includes Kirtland Temple dedication, Parley P. Pratt’s mission to Canada (where a branch is organized) where he meets and converts John Taylor and Joseph, Mary and Mercy Fielding. This volume also covers the failure of the Kirtland Safety Society Anti-Banking Company, major apostasy in the church (including the excommunication of Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdery and David Whitmer- all Three Witnesses), Heber C Kimball's (and companions) mission to England (where another branch is organized), and the revelation on Adam-Ondi-Ahman. The book ends with the apostates taking over the temple and the removal of the all (faithful) Saints from Kirtland to Far West, Missouri.
533 pages, 2009 total 2766
March 9, 2021
The character development for many of the Steeds is great in this book, especially Joshua. I love seeing how his love for Caroline and Will and Olivia makes him want to change. He realizes what true love is and that he doesn’t want to lose it, which makes him reevaluate how he’s been living his life.
I also thought it was interesting to read about the apostasy and the events surrounding it. There were so many things going on in Kirtland at the time that were so difficult for the Saints, and it made many question and some falter entirely.
But the main two reasons I love this book are meeting Derek and Peter and Joshua’s reunion with his family. Even though I knew it was coming, it still made me cry.
I also thought it was interesting to read about the apostasy and the events surrounding it. There were so many things going on in Kirtland at the time that were so difficult for the Saints, and it made many question and some falter entirely.
But the main two reasons I love this book are meeting Derek and Peter and Joshua’s reunion with his family. Even though I knew it was coming, it still made me cry.
September 11, 2008
I'm learning some cool stuff about church history, but I still have many unanswered questions. Perhaps someday I'll get around to studying something much more boring. For right now I like the story aspect that makes this series fun.
July 19, 2021
Another wonderful installment of the Steed family saga, which ends with the happiest of reunions.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
January 7, 2020This book, named The Work and the Glory #3, Truth Will Prevail, was yet another great addition to the Steed family trilogy and a great source for history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Gerald does a fantastic job of presenting different views and settings of what it was back in this history fictional novel and make sures that he reminds the audience that his characters are fictional and not real. Most of the events will occur in Kirtland, Ohio where most of the early saints gathered to build their temple and to worship together, and some part of it in England. They will be apart of the many events that the early saints suffered through to capture the feelings and emotions of the people. They had suffered many afflictions and were persecuted through every state they went through. That is why they moved to Ohio. One of the main problems was the oldest son of the Steed family named Joshua was one of the main persecutors of the early saints and constantly hurt his own family because of it.
This book was a real page turner and was one of the amazing books where it can keep you reading till 12 'o clock at night. I absolutely love these types of books, even though I regret it the next morning. It was an exciting book to read. I felt the characters emotions as if I was right next to them and felt the pain and sadness of losing a loved one to doubt and fear. But near the end of this delicious book, what seemed impossible occurred, their lost son Joshua finally came back to his loving family in a joyous embrace. Which was a brilliant move by Gerald to leave the reader on a wonderful cliff hanger. Although all cliffhangers are not appreciated, they are necessary to keep the reader hooked on like a fish to bait. I'm thankful that this cliffhanger was just a good one and not a terrible one and I instantly wanted to start the next one to read what happened next.
I love this book just like the other The Work and the Glory book series but I like this book the most because of the ending. Finally, there was a good ending to all of the unpleasant events that they had suffered through. I suggest this book to a person who is looking for more information on the Restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and gain more knowledge on the early saints and their trials. I know my knowledge has increased and will continue to grow the more I read these books about the early saints. And because I have more knowledge on this subject, the better I can teach others who have questions about it. I think that even non-members of the Church of Jesus Christ will even like this book because he does a great job of describing what the early saints were like. And if they truly wanted to know what it was like, they will love these books. If you want to be more informed on the early days of the latter day saints this book is a perfect source to learn from and Gerald even has the resources he used from at the end if you want to research it as well.
This book was a real page turner and was one of the amazing books where it can keep you reading till 12 'o clock at night. I absolutely love these types of books, even though I regret it the next morning. It was an exciting book to read. I felt the characters emotions as if I was right next to them and felt the pain and sadness of losing a loved one to doubt and fear. But near the end of this delicious book, what seemed impossible occurred, their lost son Joshua finally came back to his loving family in a joyous embrace. Which was a brilliant move by Gerald to leave the reader on a wonderful cliff hanger. Although all cliffhangers are not appreciated, they are necessary to keep the reader hooked on like a fish to bait. I'm thankful that this cliffhanger was just a good one and not a terrible one and I instantly wanted to start the next one to read what happened next.
I love this book just like the other The Work and the Glory book series but I like this book the most because of the ending. Finally, there was a good ending to all of the unpleasant events that they had suffered through. I suggest this book to a person who is looking for more information on the Restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and gain more knowledge on the early saints and their trials. I know my knowledge has increased and will continue to grow the more I read these books about the early saints. And because I have more knowledge on this subject, the better I can teach others who have questions about it. I think that even non-members of the Church of Jesus Christ will even like this book because he does a great job of describing what the early saints were like. And if they truly wanted to know what it was like, they will love these books. If you want to be more informed on the early days of the latter day saints this book is a perfect source to learn from and Gerald even has the resources he used from at the end if you want to research it as well.
May 27, 2018
This book tackles the issue of how religion, especially the LDS faith, can be both a barrier and a bridge between families. Lund spends a lot of time comparing the fictional characters Carl Rogers and Arthur Wilkinson, as well as Benjamin vs. Joshua Steed. I felt like a lot of Joshua's time in Savannah was extraneous, kind of like that side-plot in a movie that just distracts from the main story-line. It did lead to an exciting ending. But I wanted more time on actual Church History. I loved learning about Parley P. Pratt's mission to Canada and Heber C. Kimball's mission to England.
The most powerful aspect of these books is the way they show you how events like the Kirtland Safety Society and Burgess treasure--things we may gloss over in our studies--affected real people who were going through personal challenges of their own. I wish the author would have spent more time on the Word of Wisdom. The way it was casually mentioned seems to perpetuate the myth that it was immediately and strictly accepted by all members. I also wanted to know more about men like Oliver Cowdery went from being faithful followers to disillusioned critics. As with all of these books, it is a great starting point that made me want to learn more about Church History.
The most powerful aspect of these books is the way they show you how events like the Kirtland Safety Society and Burgess treasure--things we may gloss over in our studies--affected real people who were going through personal challenges of their own. I wish the author would have spent more time on the Word of Wisdom. The way it was casually mentioned seems to perpetuate the myth that it was immediately and strictly accepted by all members. I also wanted to know more about men like Oliver Cowdery went from being faithful followers to disillusioned critics. As with all of these books, it is a great starting point that made me want to learn more about Church History.
June 19, 2012
The United States of America is the country founded by seekers of freedom from oppressive governments. But did you know the Mormon Church, born on April 6th, 1830 in New York State, was forced with violence from New York, to Ohio, to Missouri, to Illinois, and ultimately west across the plains and over the Rocky Mountains—because of their beliefs? The governor of Missouri actually issued an official declaration that all Mormons were to be driven from the state or exterminated. It has always been ironic to me that the first Mormons actually had to leave the United States—the country founded on freedom—and travel 1300 miles before they were able find a place where they could peacefully worship.
This is the story found in the 9 volume series The Work and the Glory, by Gerald Lund.
5600 pages—exactly—in 32 days. That's what it took for me to read all 9 volumes of The Work and the Glory. Along the way I kept promising a grand review of the entire series once I finished book 9. Now that I've closed the cover on the last page of the last book, I feel a bit lost for words. I want to share what I learned, how I felt, what I liked, what annoyed me, what brought on the happy tears, and what caused the sad tears. I'm quite certain no one wants to read a review as long as the series itself, but I'm afraid that's what it's going to take.
So how do I do this? What do I say? How do I squeeze all these thoughts and feelings into a book review? I dunno. Let’s find out. . . .
The Work and the Glory is historical fiction. The historical part is thorough, accurate, well researched, and well documented. The books chronicle the incredible, inspiring, often tragic, always miraculous, and (to us Mormons) deeply meaningful first 20 years of existence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Book one begins in 1827, just before Joseph Smith is to retrieve the Golden Plates that will become The Book of Mormon. Book nine ends in 1847, a few months after Brigham Young leads 12,000 Mormon Pioneers from Nauvoo, IL to the Valley of the Great Salt Lake.
The fiction part is engaging, well written, and breathes life into the historical events. Through the eyes of the fictional-but-representative-of-the-time Steed Family, we become first hand witnesses to all of the major events surrounding the Restoration (as it’s known within the Church). The Steeds meet Joseph Smith shortly after moving to Palmyra, New York in 1927, and soon they find themselves involved with all the peoples, places, and events those familiar with the history of the LDS Church will quickly recognize. Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdry, the Whitmer’s, Brigham Young, Parly P. Pratt, Herber C. Kimball, Emma Smith, Hyrum Smith. April 6th, 1830, the Grandin Press, the Sacred Grove, Hill Cumorah, the Kirtland Temple, Haun’s Mill, Liberty Jail, the Nauvoo Temple, Carthage Jail. Mission calls, the law of consecration, plural marriage, the Kirtland Safety Society, extermination order, martyrdom, the trek West, the Donnor Party, the Mormon Battalion. Palmyra, Kirtland, Independence, Far West, Nauvoo, Carthage, Winter Quarters, the Salt Lake Valley. Conversion, apostasy, persecution, miracles, revelations, visitations, resilience, tragedy, joy, and finally, peace and rest. The Steeds are part of it all.
For me, the best part of The Work and the Glory is the way becoming invested in the lives of the Steed Family makes history personal. Now, instead of just knowing the facts surrounding a historical event, I have an idea of what it was like to actually be a part of that event. What did it feel like to hear Joseph’s testimony straight from his own mouth? What was it like to be told to leave your lives in Palmyra and follow the Church to Kirtland? Can I really imagine the terror of the hateful mobs driving us from every place we worked to start a new life? How about the joy of being there when the Kirtland Temple was dedicated? Cutting stone for the Nauvoo Temple? What would I have thought on the great day of healing when Joseph rose from his sick bed of malaria and healed so many others who were sick? What was it like to ride in a wagon across Iowa and Wyoming? How did it feel to watch your children leave bloody footprints in the snow after being forced at gunpoint from Far West? What about when Joseph was killed? What did it feel like to witness Brigham Young suddenly look and sound like Joseph on that day in Nauvoo? And on and on. After all the trials, I feel like I caught a glimpse of their joy and relief to finally reach the Salt Lake Valley, where they would be out of reach of their enemies.
I’m a firm believer that the best books are the ones that make you feel, and there is a lot of feeling to be felt in reading The Work and the Glory.
As literature, the books are engaging and well written—but packed full of Mormon cheesiness. The cheesiness wasn’t too distracting for me, however, thanks to the strength of the characters. I really cared about the Steeds and I loved watching their family grow through both sorrow and joy over the course of 20 years.
It was also fun to read about my own pioneer ancestors as the Steeds even interacted with some of those that I am actually descended from.
Mostly, I feel proud of my heritage. The first members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had the faith and courage to do and endure impossible things. I feel steeled up more than ever before to carry on with the work they started and to live my life with as much faith and courage as I can find in myself. I want them to look down on me from heaven and be proud that I am carrying on their legacy.
See, now I’m caught up in Mormon cheesiness! But, what can I say? It’s how I feel after reading The Work and the Glory.
I recommend these books to everyone, especially lovers of American History and members or friends of the LDS Church. For non-Mormons especially, I think reading a detailed history of the LDS church such as this would go a long way in helping you understand better what makes us tick.
Happy Reading!
Dan
This is the story found in the 9 volume series The Work and the Glory, by Gerald Lund.
5600 pages—exactly—in 32 days. That's what it took for me to read all 9 volumes of The Work and the Glory. Along the way I kept promising a grand review of the entire series once I finished book 9. Now that I've closed the cover on the last page of the last book, I feel a bit lost for words. I want to share what I learned, how I felt, what I liked, what annoyed me, what brought on the happy tears, and what caused the sad tears. I'm quite certain no one wants to read a review as long as the series itself, but I'm afraid that's what it's going to take.
So how do I do this? What do I say? How do I squeeze all these thoughts and feelings into a book review? I dunno. Let’s find out. . . .
The Work and the Glory is historical fiction. The historical part is thorough, accurate, well researched, and well documented. The books chronicle the incredible, inspiring, often tragic, always miraculous, and (to us Mormons) deeply meaningful first 20 years of existence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Book one begins in 1827, just before Joseph Smith is to retrieve the Golden Plates that will become The Book of Mormon. Book nine ends in 1847, a few months after Brigham Young leads 12,000 Mormon Pioneers from Nauvoo, IL to the Valley of the Great Salt Lake.
The fiction part is engaging, well written, and breathes life into the historical events. Through the eyes of the fictional-but-representative-of-the-time Steed Family, we become first hand witnesses to all of the major events surrounding the Restoration (as it’s known within the Church). The Steeds meet Joseph Smith shortly after moving to Palmyra, New York in 1927, and soon they find themselves involved with all the peoples, places, and events those familiar with the history of the LDS Church will quickly recognize. Martin Harris, Oliver Cowdry, the Whitmer’s, Brigham Young, Parly P. Pratt, Herber C. Kimball, Emma Smith, Hyrum Smith. April 6th, 1830, the Grandin Press, the Sacred Grove, Hill Cumorah, the Kirtland Temple, Haun’s Mill, Liberty Jail, the Nauvoo Temple, Carthage Jail. Mission calls, the law of consecration, plural marriage, the Kirtland Safety Society, extermination order, martyrdom, the trek West, the Donnor Party, the Mormon Battalion. Palmyra, Kirtland, Independence, Far West, Nauvoo, Carthage, Winter Quarters, the Salt Lake Valley. Conversion, apostasy, persecution, miracles, revelations, visitations, resilience, tragedy, joy, and finally, peace and rest. The Steeds are part of it all.
For me, the best part of The Work and the Glory is the way becoming invested in the lives of the Steed Family makes history personal. Now, instead of just knowing the facts surrounding a historical event, I have an idea of what it was like to actually be a part of that event. What did it feel like to hear Joseph’s testimony straight from his own mouth? What was it like to be told to leave your lives in Palmyra and follow the Church to Kirtland? Can I really imagine the terror of the hateful mobs driving us from every place we worked to start a new life? How about the joy of being there when the Kirtland Temple was dedicated? Cutting stone for the Nauvoo Temple? What would I have thought on the great day of healing when Joseph rose from his sick bed of malaria and healed so many others who were sick? What was it like to ride in a wagon across Iowa and Wyoming? How did it feel to watch your children leave bloody footprints in the snow after being forced at gunpoint from Far West? What about when Joseph was killed? What did it feel like to witness Brigham Young suddenly look and sound like Joseph on that day in Nauvoo? And on and on. After all the trials, I feel like I caught a glimpse of their joy and relief to finally reach the Salt Lake Valley, where they would be out of reach of their enemies.
I’m a firm believer that the best books are the ones that make you feel, and there is a lot of feeling to be felt in reading The Work and the Glory.
As literature, the books are engaging and well written—but packed full of Mormon cheesiness. The cheesiness wasn’t too distracting for me, however, thanks to the strength of the characters. I really cared about the Steeds and I loved watching their family grow through both sorrow and joy over the course of 20 years.
It was also fun to read about my own pioneer ancestors as the Steeds even interacted with some of those that I am actually descended from.
Mostly, I feel proud of my heritage. The first members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had the faith and courage to do and endure impossible things. I feel steeled up more than ever before to carry on with the work they started and to live my life with as much faith and courage as I can find in myself. I want them to look down on me from heaven and be proud that I am carrying on their legacy.
See, now I’m caught up in Mormon cheesiness! But, what can I say? It’s how I feel after reading The Work and the Glory.
I recommend these books to everyone, especially lovers of American History and members or friends of the LDS Church. For non-Mormons especially, I think reading a detailed history of the LDS church such as this would go a long way in helping you understand better what makes us tick.
Happy Reading!
Dan
May 31, 2023
This book covers from the Kirtland Temple dedication April 1836, the Kirtland Safety Society Bank Failure resulting in apostasy and departure of most Saints to Missouri. The book ends with a powerful reunion of Joshua and Benjamin steed in Far West in 1838.
The book follows the usual Steeds but introduces a new wife for Joshua and new converts from England. I like Caroline, the new wife from Savannah. She is crucial in Joshua’s redemption and is good for the story.
Rebecca Steed wants to avoid a split belief marriage like her sister Melissa so she is connected to English convert Derek Ingalls. While his story is interesting in understanding English missionary work, sometimes it takes away from the Steeds. Still an overall great read.
The book follows the usual Steeds but introduces a new wife for Joshua and new converts from England. I like Caroline, the new wife from Savannah. She is crucial in Joshua’s redemption and is good for the story.
Rebecca Steed wants to avoid a split belief marriage like her sister Melissa so she is connected to English convert Derek Ingalls. While his story is interesting in understanding English missionary work, sometimes it takes away from the Steeds. Still an overall great read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2022
I... beautiful, it's just beautiful. No other words can describe this book. It gave me the answer I needed. This is just a perfect retelling with real and fictional events. This series is becoming my number one favorite series that is fictional. I wish I could just give my mom these books and have her over look the religion and just look at the beautifulness of the story itself and the lessons that can be learned. It won't happen but I could wish and ask her... or atleast ask her to listen to some very beautiful parts in the books and the parts that has the lessons to be learned. Anyways this book is amazing and I enjoyed every second reading it.
December 18, 2024
*4.5 Stars
JOSHUA’S CHARACTER GROWTH. That is all.
(Actually, that is not all- I love how this book did not stray from covering distressing internal struggles within the Church. The Saints were externally persecuted, yes, but the early Church was not devoid of strife and even violence among its members. Though I was not unaware that such feelings existed, I had not heard of many of the specific instances that were included in this book and I am interested to research them on my own. Those issues serve as a compelling reminder of what to steer clear from and what to seek to emulate in our modern day.)
JOSHUA’S CHARACTER GROWTH. That is all.
(Actually, that is not all- I love how this book did not stray from covering distressing internal struggles within the Church. The Saints were externally persecuted, yes, but the early Church was not devoid of strife and even violence among its members. Though I was not unaware that such feelings existed, I had not heard of many of the specific instances that were included in this book and I am interested to research them on my own. Those issues serve as a compelling reminder of what to steer clear from and what to seek to emulate in our modern day.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2017
I started this book immediately after I finished the last book and also during our family trip to visit Church historical sites in Ohio. Book two ended at the Kirtland Temple dedication. But I didn't remember much about the events that forced the Saints to leave Ohio. This book was a great perspective of the Kirtland Safety Society and the conflict that arose around that time. I enjoyed reading the history from a fictional perspective as it helped me to think about the lives of actual people who lived through these events. It made it more than facts on a page.
October 25, 2017
This is my favorite one so far. There was quite a bit of information in it from LDS church history that I had never heard before. I found those parts fascinating. It also gave me a greater appreciation for what these early members of the LDS church went through especially when people that had been members of this church started to persecute others of the same faith. My favorite part of this story though was learning more about Joshua and learning more of his life. The ending was captivating and now I want to read start right into the next book in this series.
August 8, 2019
I think this is my favorite book in the series so far! The events in this book take place immediately after the dedication of the Kirtland Temple to the arrival of the Kirtland saints in Far West. Family relationships get deeper, and also become more complicated. I can't say too much without spoiling the rest of the book. But I'm excited to read the next book and see what lies in store for the Steed family!
July 16, 2020
So far, ‘Truth Will Prevail’ #3 has been my favorite so far: 4½ stars. This one covers 1836-1838. What I liked so much is that we really get to know the characters, fictional and real, in great detail. I feel invested in each one!
After spending so much time disliking Joshua in books #1 & #2, I actually found myself coming around to having hope for him. I realize he’s fictional, but many real people could identify with his strong feelings against his family.
On to #4…
After spending so much time disliking Joshua in books #1 & #2, I actually found myself coming around to having hope for him. I realize he’s fictional, but many real people could identify with his strong feelings against his family.
On to #4…
January 19, 2021
2021 Re-read (3.5 stars)
I didn't love this book as much as the first time I read it, but I still enjoyed myself quite a bit. This book suffers from some pacing issues. The author makes a few quick leaps with the timing that gave the book an uneven feel.
Still, the fictional characters blended quite well with the historical ones and their stories intertwined and bolstered each other. Overall, this book was a quick, easy, and fun read.
I didn't love this book as much as the first time I read it, but I still enjoyed myself quite a bit. This book suffers from some pacing issues. The author makes a few quick leaps with the timing that gave the book an uneven feel.
Still, the fictional characters blended quite well with the historical ones and their stories intertwined and bolstered each other. Overall, this book was a quick, easy, and fun read.
July 24, 2017
I liked this one as much as the first and quite a bit more than the second. The pacing was better and more happened with the main characters. I especially liked the addition of the Inglalls brothers. This is the part of church history I knew the least about so I'm learning a lot while enjoying a good story.
September 24, 2019
My favorite character was Caroline Mendenhall Steed because she had the courage to withstand Joshua's temper, and defy him to get him back to his family. I was most surprised when Joshua warmed up enough to be hospitible to Nathan. I would not change the ending. I like when there is a full family reunion.
May 15, 2020
man, this took me AGES to finish. it was sooo boring. but, the only reason why i have it 3 stars was because of a couple of things: the ending, Nathan, Derek, Derek & Rebecca’s relationship, the fact that the author actually let men in this one instead of making them cold-hearted, and Caroline, who is an absolute QUEEN.
also, the women actually had reasons to cry, which was really nice.
also, the women actually had reasons to cry, which was really nice.
December 8, 2022
A wonderful, thought-provoking novel! It makes church history more realistic and personal to me. It brings to life what once was in a way readers can understand it. There are many parallels concerning the actions and thoughts of its major and minor characters to today. I wrote several notes throughout the book.
January 1, 2019
I really enjoyed the development of the Steed family, and following the events of the Latter Day Saint Pioneers. Wasn't a huge fan of the pacing. It felt like all of a sudden time passed not just by weeks but by months and occasionally years. That was a little disjointing.
January 21, 2019
This series just keeps getting better and better. I have a hard time putting these books down! I'm learning more about Church History than I have before, as well, and the fictional family adaptation helps to keep your attention.
January 27, 2021
If you are interested in the hostry of the LDS church, this is an easy read. ( Compared to the more text- book style history books I've read.) However, as a work of fiction, the writing isn't great. I probably would have liked it more as a teenager, but am reading it for the first time as an adult.
January 8, 2017
Absolutely wonderful!! I am enjoying both the story and this history, the journey of the Steed family and the saints.
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