Reviews

“To know George Durrant brings smile to one’s face. His whit, humor, and keen intellect makes it a joy to be in his presence. To know Susan Easton Black commands a reverential awe as she reveals her near-photographic memory and unparalleled ability to recall, weave, and thrill tens of thousands with stories from the past. However, this book is allowing us to see a part of this ‘dynamic duo’ not heretofore seen. Wesley not only comes to life but reveals an insight into human nature as he interfaces with the citizens of Rooster Creek. With every person trying his or her best to be honest, Wesley’s unhinged, scripture-quoting, fanatical rants, causes each person to face the reality whether it is better not to be completely honest in view of the unforeseen consequences.

Although not a ‘preachy’ book, Wesley causes the thoughtful reader to frequently ask: ‘What would I do in a similar situation?’ The multiple threads are artfully woven with more than a few unexpected twists and turns. But it isn’t until the very end when each major player confronts his or her ‘lie’ that the beautiful tapestry is revealed.

You will love reading this book—you won’t be able to put it down.”

—Randy L. Bott (an emeritus professor of Church History and Doctrine at BYU)

“I did find your book well-written, and it was gripping in the sense that I wanted to keep reading to see how all the different characters and situations would be resolved in the end.  Plus, there were some clever twists and turns (and humor) in the story . . .  You two, as I’ve always known, are creative!”

—Kelly Ogden (emeritus professor of Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young University)

“Wesley: An Eye for an Eye is a story set in the 1920s about a pair of displaced siblings traveling through the US West. Wesley, a religious fanatic, and Lydia, his caring but embarrassed sister, make a stop in a rural Utah town named Rooster Creek where they stumble into some trouble after Wesley prophesies Lydia’s marriage to an already engaged local man. In a charming, witty, and fast-paced way, the plot winds through themes of love, death, insanity, and miscommunication.

This book is hard not to love. The characters are endearing and entertaining amid their faults, and the witty quips artfully thrown in by background characters kept me laughing and made Rooster Creek feel like a real place. The plot keeps pace and there is never a lag in the storyline, making it an engaging read. It is a charming balance of humor and adventure while also subtly posing questions of morality.

I recommend Wesley for all ages–for the teenager wanting an adventure read, the adult looking for a chuckle, or a parent needing a clean yet entertaining bedtime story; it is a delight for all.”

—McKenna Swindle, social innovator

“The story has a strong sense of identity. Wesley is a unique and interesting character you’re unlikely to find in any other story, much less as a point of view, and the large ensemble do a good job of making the town of Rooster’s Creek feel alive.”

—Bryce Easton (MS in industrial engineering at Kansas State University)

“Though this is Durrant’s and Black’s first novel, it surpassed my high expectations of being one of those books that completely pulls you in, makes you fall in love with the main characters, and demands that you sit on the edge of your seat for every twist in the plot that are so startling. I could not put it down and read the entire book in one afternoon. The style of freshness, intensity and power provided excellent character development and completely held my attention.”

—Mary Jane Woodger (professor of Church History and Doctrine at Brigham Young University)

“Wesley—An Eye for an Eye has an eccentric, eclectic, and electrifying cache of characters.  Each one reminds us of someone we recognize, brought forth by our deepest recollections in the recesses of our minds.  As we devour each chapter with eager anticipation for new and unexpected adventures, this book is hard to put down.  It is also subject to uncontrollable laughter!!  It will be your best day ever as you anticipate Wesley’s next act of revenge.”

Susy Swing, Nauvoo, Illinois