I recently read this book:
A House for the Most High
by: Matthew S. McBride.
It is the story about the first Nauvoo temple & the surrounding history, culture, etc.
It is balanced & well researched. He gives quotes from members & non-members alike.
He talks about the Tithing. He compares & contrasts how it was practiced then.
Many of the quotes are from the average member at the time.
For example: Joseph Smith III. He is quoted about his memory as a child watching the temple being built.
I didn’t realize that Sidney Rigdon prophesized that the temple would not be finished.
I didn’t realize that some members were disappointed with the endowment ceremony in the temple & became dissatisfied. (sound familiar?)
If you like a balanced history of the church, you’ll like this book.
(2 thumbs up!)