"John Stevens' Courtship: A Story Of The Echo Canyon War" by Susa Young Gates is a captivating historical fiction novel that intertwines romance with the tumultuous backdrop of the Echo Canyon War. As a work of fiction by the American author Susa Young Gates, the novel transports readers to the pioneer days of Utah history, exploring the challenges faced by early settlers amidst religious conflict and polygamy controversies. Through the character of John Stevens, Gates paints a vivid portrait of a pioneer navigating the complexities of love, loyalty, and faith in the shadow of Brigham Young's leadership. Against the backdrop of the Echo Canyon War, the novel delves into the struggles of the Mormon community against federal intervention, adding a layer of historical authenticity to the narrative. With its blend of romance, Western adventure, and historical drama, "John Stevens' Courtship" offers readers a compelling glimpse into the untamed frontier of the American West and the resilient spirit of its pioneers.
Susa Gates (March 18, 1856 – May 27, 1933) was an American writer, periodical editor, president of the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, and campaigner for women's rights. She was the daughter of Brigham Young, the head of the LDS Church. Gates published numerous short stories, novels, poetry, and other literary works throughout her life. Gates wrote more than other Mormon writers, according to R. Paul Cracroft's argument. Gates was also active in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), where she created lesson manuals, served on the Relief Society general board, led genealogy work, and served as a missionary, among other things. Brigham Young's twenty-second wife, Lucy Bigelow, gave birth to Gates at Salt Lake City, Utah Territory. Gates was born Susanna but went by Susa for the majority of her life. She was Brigham's forty-second child and Lucy Bigelow and Brigham Young's second child. Gates was raised in the Lion House. Because of the size of her father's family, Young's home life was quite regulated. Her days were structured around planned meals, prayers, schooling, family devotionals, and sleep. According to Gates, she had a pleasant upbringing and enjoyed growing up in the Young family.
