“Val Holley’s long-anticipated biography of Frank J. Cannon, one of the most controversial men ever to be born in Utah, is worth the wait. Cannon’s role in ending the political warfare over polygamy is what made him matter in Utah’s history. His scandalous conduct—and how he got away with it—is what makes him interesting.”
—Will Bagley, historian and author of Blood of the Prophets: Brigham Young and the Massacre at Mountain Meadows
“Holley gives full information, warts and all, about Cannon’s early life—including that Cannon was frequently drunk, was an adulterer, and fathered a son out of wedlock. He also provides information on the role Cannon played in the transition of Utah from territory to state and is clear about Cannon’s role in the silver movement and his eventual break with the Republican Party. We have needed a full-scale biography of Frank J. Cannon for some time.”
—Thomas G. Alexander, author of Brigham Young and the Expansion of the Mormon Faith
“Holley accurately presents the paradox that was Frank J. Cannon.… It's well past time that Frank J., the scoundrel of the Cannons, get some notice for his many achievements. Holley's biography is a valuable, interesting read.”
—Mormon History and Culture blog