WIDE IS THE WAY is a hilarious novel about a talented, but ultimately flawed engineer, Roy, who rises rapidly in local government in the mythical Borough of Brimley. ItÕs 1970 and the northeast of England is reeling from the rundown of the mines, shipbuilding, and railways. RoyÕs empathy for the unemployed motivates him to generate jobs through innovative schemes.His popularity rises due to his willingness to lecture on the councilÕs (his) initiatives, and more importantly, achieve their objectives in record time. With a flair for public speaking, he is soon sought after as a speaker, particularly by female institutions, where his energy and passion attract female admirers.He is also asked to lecture on solving cryptic crosswords and finds an almost magical way to seduction.