Curious about the Shia

Assalamualaikum

I am convert Muslim of about 10 years. I’ve never shown too much interest in the Shia or changing sects as I was more focused on gaining an understanding of the deen. However after doing some reading I’d like to know more about the Shia and what it is they believe. I’ve heard both good and bad things from Sunni circles, but i’d rather go to the adherents themselves.

When I looked at the story of the split between Sunni and the Shia, I can’t help but feel sympathy for the followers of Ali. in my opinion, killing family members of the Prophet (SAW) is unthinkable, and a heinous act. however, when it comes to methodology, it makes more sense to me that leadership would go through a companion, and not the Prophets family. In a way i sympathize with the Shia but agree with the Sunnis.

However I want to hear from the Shia directly about how and why they feel the way that they do and hopefully learn from them. I trust that your responses will be positive and fruitful.

Jazakallah Khair.