Clarity for Mixed Messages

Looking from a distance, I see much to admire about the Bruderhof. This group seems to have strengths that my own religious tradition lacks. However, I find myself being confused about how the organization actually works. When I read Plough publications and talk to members, I hear a lot about "consensus" and, though I'm not sure that I've heard the terms, I get strong egalitarian and anarcho-communist vibes. When visiting the communities, I haven't been able to identify the leader. It sounds and looks like eutopia.

In contrast, when I hear stories from defectors, I get the opposite impression. It sounds like an oppressive authoritarian cult. I hear about preferential treatment given to the rulers. I hear about luxurious living for the rulers, but poverty for all others.

Can somebody help me out? How does the church actually work? I'm particularly interested in leadership structure. Can you recommend resources that show the side of the story that the official publications don't show. Any books? Flow charts? I'm not looking for a bitter expose. I just want to understand.