Alfred Henry Lewis & John Doyle Lee 
The Mormon Menace: The Confessions of John Doyle Lee, Danite 

The ‘Mormon Menace: The Confessions of John Doyle Lee, Danite’ serves as a pivotal anthology in the examination of the Mormon faith from a historical and critical perspective. Capturing a range of literary styles from firsthand narrative accounts to analytical essays, this collection probes deeply into the complexities and controversies of Mormon history. It stands out for including John Doyle Lee’s confessions, providing unfiltered insights into the Danite operations and the broader socio-religious landscape of the time. This collection not only enriches our understanding of the Mormon Church’s early years but also highlights the diversity of voices and narratives that have shaped its perception and reality. The contributing authors, Alfred Henry Lewis and John Doyle Lee, bring forward a remarkable diversity of perspectives rooted in their unique backgrounds. Lewis, as a distinguished journalist, and Lee, a figure intricately woven into the fabric of Mormon history, offer an unprecedented look into the formation, ideologies, and internal conflicts of the Mormon community. Their collective contributions align with and challenge contemporary discussions on religion, faith, and the American frontier, bridging past disclosures with present inquiries. ‘The Mormon Menace’ is indispensable for scholars and enthusiasts alike. It invites readers into a nuanced exploration of a deeply contentious period in American religious history, encouraging a comprehensive understanding through the lens of those who lived it. This anthology is a rare opportunity to engage with the multifaceted dialogues surrounding Mormonism, its cultural legacy, and its historical complexities, making it a valuable addition to any academic or personal library.

About the author

Alfred Henry Lewis (1857–1914) was an American investigative journalist, lawyer, and novelist renowned for his explorations of contemporary social issues and political systems. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Lewis pursued law before transitioning into journalism and eventually, literature. Leveraging his rich experiences, he authored several books, with a special focus on capturing the nuances of Western life and critiquing institutional power structures. One such notable work includes ‘The Mormon Menace: The Confessions of John Doyle Lee, Danite’—a provocative account that delves into the complex socio-religious tapestry of the Mormon Church and its historical controversies. His literary style often reflects a muckraking impulse, characterized by the use of personal narratives to shed light on broader societal concerns and injustices. Lewis’s insightful prose and dedication to unveiling truths made him a prominent figure in the realms of both journalism and fiction during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a contributor to the fabric of literary realism of his time, his works continue to be analyzed for their significant portrayals of American life and politics at the turn of the century.