Falcons and Seagulls

About the Book

Solomon Fairchild lives a quiet life as a Quaker in Massachusetts until he learns of his uncle’s imminent death. Rory MacLeod was once an ally and employer of Solomon’s, so he travels to say goodbye to this family member and old friend. Little does Solomon know Rory has a secret that will change his peaceful life forever.

Rory feels a need, in his dying days, to address the sins of his past. He was apparently once very close with genius Howard Hughes, but their dealings were not always above the board. Hughes was intrinsically involved with the Israeli government, the Mormon Church, and other massively powerful entities. 

As Rory lies dying, Solomon’s cousin Phil is found shot in the Utah wilderness. Solomon is adrift in confusion as he tries to piece together Rory’s past and his cousin’s murder. He has taken on more than he ever realized when high-powered shadow agencies make a play for his life. Will Solomon be able to put together the shattered pieces of his family’s past before his own future lies beneath the rubble?

About the Author

David Taylor Johannesen was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, a fifth-generation Mormon and great-great grandson of Church President, John Taylor. He grew up, and was educated from an early age, in Massachusetts, where he found the plain quietude of the Society of Friends, and lived there for a number of years with his wife, Linda. They have moved recently to Northern California with their Border collie Fallon. His children Christian, a media executive, and Helen, a restaurateur, live in New York City and Los Angeles with their spouses, Kristen and Zachary. He is also the author of the poetry collection, Vespers East and West, the short story collection, Last One Close the Gate, and the novels, The Architect and Passengers. Johannesen is currently working on his new collection of short stories, Boston Casualty. Johannesen was educated at University of Pennsylvania, New York University and Trinity College Oxford.