The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives

 The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is a non-fiction book written by Ericka Krouse that delves into the personal experiences of women in the Mormon faith, particularly focusing on the unique challenges they face within a predominantly patriarchal system. The book explores the dynamics of marriage, faith, and personal identity in the context of Mormon culture, often highlighting the tension between traditional religious expectations and the individual desires of women.

Through various stories, the book presents a nuanced view of Mormon wives who navigate complex relationships and their roles in family and community. It also touches on themes such as polygamy, personal sacrifice, and the pressures of religious conformity. Krouse' narrative brings to light the inner lives of these women, often shedding light on issues that might not be apparent from outside the faith. 

Here are 10 of the most shocking revelations from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives by Ericka Krouse, which highlights the internal struggles and surprising truths about women in the Mormon faith:

1. Polygamy is Still Practiced in Some Sects

   - Although mainstream Mormonism disavows polygamy, Krouse reveals that splinter groups still practice it, and some women within these communities struggle with jealousy and isolation.

2. High Levels of Depression Among Women

   - Many Mormon wives silently suffer from depression, often attributed to the pressures of living up to religious and societal expectations, especially the idea of being a "perfect wife" and mother.

 3. Secret Support Networks

   - Women have formed secret networks to support each other, particularly those trapped in emotionally or physically abusive marriages, or those grappling with feelings of unfulfillment within the faith.

 4. Financial Dependency on Husbands

   - Several women interviewed for the book expressed frustration at being financially dependent on their husbands, a common scenario in more traditional Mormon families, where men are the primary breadwinners.

5. Conflicting Views on Sexuality

   - The book reveals the tension many Mormon wives feel around sexuality, where they are expected to be chaste before marriage, then sexually available and enthusiastic afterward, a dynamic that often leads to internal conflict.

6. Divorce Stigma

   - Divorce is highly stigmatized within the Mormon community. Wives who consider or go through with divorces often face judgment from their communities, which increases their emotional and social isolation.

7. Lack of Female Leadership

   - Krouse highlights how Mormon women are excluded from leadership roles in the Church, despite carrying significant burdens within their homes and communities. This lack of authority frustrates many women in the faith.

8. Unquestioning Obedience

   - Mormon wives are often expected to be obedient to their husbands and Church leaders, leading some women to question their autonomy and personal freedom within their marriages.

 9. Struggles with Faith Crisis

   - Many of the women go through a "faith crisis," where they question their beliefs, yet feel trapped due to familial or societal expectations to remain devout.

 10. Exodus from the Church

   - Some women eventually leave the Church altogether, feeling that their personal and emotional well-being cannot coexist with the demands of Mormon orthodoxy. However, leaving often means losing their entire community and family support.

These revelations underscore the complexity of life for Mormon women, where faith, identity, and personal happiness often collide. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives brings these internal conflicts to light, giving voice to experiences that have long been hidden.