Conclave by Robert Harris is a gripping novel that delves into the process of electing a new Pope within the Catholic Church. Set during the intense and secretive conclave where 118 cardinals must choose the next leader, the book explores themes of power, intrigue, corruption, and the inner workings of the Vatican. The narrative is filled with drama, suspense, and unexpected plot twists that keep readers engaged until the very end.

The author, Robert Harris, expertly weaves together a thrilling story that combines elements of mystery, politics, and religion. Through the eyes of characters like Cardinal Lomeli, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, readers are taken on a journey that reveals the complexity of the selection process, the personal struggles of the cardinals, and the high stakes involved in choosing a new Pope. Harris's writing style is praised for its attention to detail, well-researched background, and ability to create a compelling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Characters:

The characters, especially Cardinal Lomeli, are well-developed, embodying the complexities of faith, ambition, and personal dilemmas.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is immersive and detailed, with a focus on character introspection and historical accuracy.

Plot/Storyline:

The story revolves around the intricacies of electing a new pope, highlighting the ambitions and secrets of the cardinals and culminating in an unexpected twist.

Setting:

The Vatican serves as a fascinating backdrop, providing a rich and detailed setting for the electoral process.

Pacing:

The pacing maintains interest, with a mix of dialogue and tension, though opinions differ on the latter sections.

He toiled up the cobbled slope towards the Piazza Santa Marta. The Roman air was soft and misty, yet already he could detect the first faint chill of autumn. It was raining slightly. The Prefect of th...

Notes:

The novel is centered around the election of a new pope after the sudden death of the previous pope, who resembles Pope Francis.

Cardinal Lomeli, the protagonist, is tasked with managing the conclave and overseeing the voting process.

The book explores themes of faith, ambition, and the political machinations within the college of cardinals.

It highlights the tension between progressive and conservative factions in the church, reflecting real-world issues.

Harris showcases the intricate rituals and traditions of the conclave process, making it informative as well as entertaining.

The ending of the book has been described by some readers as preposterous and not believable.

The author, Robert Harris, is known for his well-researched historical fiction, and this book includes extensive details about the Vatican's inner workings.

The story unfolds over a period of three days, focusing on dialogue and character development rather than action.

The audiobook version, narrated by Roy McMillan, has received praise for its delivery and engagement.

The narrative emphasizes the human flaws and moral struggles of the cardinals involved in the election.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book may contain content that some readers find sensitive, including references to past scandals within the Church and themes of power struggles.

From The Publisher:

The best-selling author of Enigma and Fatherland turns to today's Vatican in a ripped-from-the-headlines novel, and gives us his most ambitious, page-turning thriller yet-where the power of God is nearly equaled by the ambition of men.

The pope is dead. Behind the locked doors of the Sistine Chapel, one hundred and eighteen cardinals from all over the globe will cast their votes in the world's most secretive election. They are holy men. But they have ambition. And they have rivals. Over the next seventy-two hours one of them will become the most powerful spiritual figure on Earth.

Ratings (7)

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1 comment(s)

marluv424

Incredible

3 months

Very different from the typical book I’ve read this year but perhaps one of my favorites. I grew up Irish Catholic and although my views on god do not align with the teachings of the church (I vacillate between agnostic and atheist) this book gave me a new respect for those engaged in faith and also in the complexity of the Catholic Church as a whole. Wonderfully researched and totally humanizing as well as absolutely THRILLING! Who knew one could make Conclave a heartracing suspense? Many will be unhappy with the ending but I think it’s perfect given the beliefs, ideas, preachings leading up to it. Fantastic.

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About the Author:

ROBERT HARRIS is the author of twelve novels: Fatherland, Enigma, Archangel, Pompeii, Imperium, The Ghost Writer, Conspirata, The Fear Index, An Officer and a Spy, Dictator, Conclave, and Munich. Several of his books have been adapted to film, most recently The Ghost. His work has been…

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Conclave

Robert Harris