The Dark Triumph of Daniel Sarkisyan

Daniel Sarkisyan and his sister Mariam have been scrambling to survive the squalor of 1920 Yerevan. When Daniel finally lands a job with the rich and powerful Gagik, he feels lucky. But within days, Gagik proves to be selfish, violent and just plain mean. Within a week, Daniel is caught in a dangerous, downward spiral of deceit, corruption and treachery. Within months, and against his will, he’s embroiled in espionage and murder. Set against the deadly clash between the Ottoman Empire, the Russian Soviet Army, and the ill-fated optimism of the struggling new Republic of Armenia, Daniel races against time to protect his sister, uncover Gagik’s diabolical plot, and maintain his integrity in the face of overwhelming odds.

Reviews from back cover:

Wendy Elliott’s tale begins and ends with a triumphant tone, one that many readers may find fascinating. Congratulations on a commanding novel!
– Garen Boyajian, actor, Ararat, Three Veils

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is a great depiction of what life was like for individuals living in Armenia post-WWI. The historical context drew me in and the fast paced story line kept me hooked. I felt such a connection to the characters that I couldn’t put it down!
– Irin Badial, history teacher, Brantford Collegiate Institute

As I followed Daniel’s journey, step by step, I marvelled at how a Canadian woman, who does not bear our genetic memory, could write so movingly and realistically about a survivor of the Genocide. Her heart has obviously been touched by the wounds of the Armenian soul.
– Lilit Qochinyan, journalist, Kanch (Armenian newspaper for children and youth)

Wendy Elliott does an excellent job capturing the inner thoughts and emotions of a teenage boy. Daniel is relatable and genuine. Dark Triumph is informative and insightful, and depicts history in a ‘want to read more’ way.
– Lindsey M. Columbus, history teacher, Brantford Collegiate Institute