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Conclave
Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 16:15:50
50 copies available
U.S. only
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.
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.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2016
About the author
Robert Harris
56 books7,369 followersROBERT HARRIS is the author of nine best-selling novels: Fatherland, Enigma, Archangel, Pompeii, Imperium, The Ghost Writer, Conspirata, The Fear Index, and An Officer and a Spy. Several of his books have been adapted to film, most recently The Ghost Writer, directed by Roman Polanski. His work has been translated into thirty-seven languages. He lives in the village of Kintbury, England, with his wife, Gill Hornby.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,927 reviews
September 21, 2019
”Sede vacante, . . . .The throne of the Holy See is vacant.”
The Power of God, the Ambition of Men.
Cardinal Jacopo Lomeli has been contemplating retirement to peaceful meditation and study for several years now, but the Pope insists that he still needs him at the Vatican. Lomeli is maybe a better manager than he is priest. This assessment makes Jacopo uneasy because it feels like a deviation from what he feels his real purpose should be.
Can a manager truly be close to God? How much closer to God can he get than to be the Dean for the Pope? He is seventy-five years old and serves at the discretion of the Pope. By serving the Pope, he serves God.
And then the Pope dies.
After the initial shock and more than a few prayers, Lomeli suddenly realizes, as the Dean, he is responsible for managing the conclave that will select the next Pope. God have mercy on his soul.
”My body is clay, my good fame a vapour, my end is ashes.”
Managing a conclave is pretty much as terrifying as it seems. The egos of the Cardinals arriving are so large that the room can barely contain the mass of their collective self-esteem. As we all know, they must be sequestered during the conclave to insure that no outside influence can be brought to bear on the process. Despite all the precautions, there are always those who will go to great lengths to circumvent any system. Fervent disagreements arise early in the process as Cardinals jockey for votes, as piously as possible, thinly disguising their most vehement desires to be the most powerful spiritual leader on the planet. Lomeli is unnerved by the spectacle of so much naked aspirations, but at the same time, he is also trying to control his own ambitious pride. ”We are an ark, he thought, surrounded by a rising flood of discord.”
He doesn’t want to be Pope. He doesn’t, but he does have the name he would use selected if God does call him to serve. As much as Lomeli tells himself and others that he doesn’t want to be Pope, there is a small part of his heart that glows with the possibility.
As if Lomeli doesn’t have enough to do, an unknown Cardinal shows up claiming that he received the red hat: ”In pectore (‘in the heart’) was the ancient provision under which a Pope could create a cardinal without revealing his name….” A Pope only does this if the Cardinal is working in an area hostile to Catholicism. Cardinal Benitez is a Filipino by birth but has worked in dangerous areas across Africa. He has the paperwork to prove that the recently departed Pope had named him the Cardinal of Baghdad.
There is a series of votes without any conclusive leader. There are four main contenders, but each of them has issues that could keep them from obtaining the papacy. I found myself sliding my thumb over the tallies until I’d read the paragraphs leading up to the results. I was on the edge of my seat in similar fashion to when I was watching the movie Lincoln, and they were voting on the Emancipation Proclamation.
As more and more is revealed about the leading candidates, Lomeli finds himself in the uncomfortable position of investigating the various allegations that start to come to light. As he makes these indiscretions known to the Cardinals, it starts to look like Lomeli is meticulously eliminating his competition to be Pope.
Is he just doing his duty, or is his secret desire guiding his actions? The shocking conclusion(s) to this conclave will rock you on your heels.
In the course of his novel, Robert Harris had the opportunity to discuss the growing number of Catholics located outside of Europe and their underrepresentation with Cardinal hats. One wonders when that revolution will spark. It makes perfect sense to me that maybe the Pope needs more than one residence. When I think about the Kings/Queens of England and their numerous households scattered about the British Isles, it makes sense that they would spend time at each of these residences to show an interest in their subjects far from London. Maybe the Pope needs an offshoot of the Vatican in South America, for instance, where he would spend a few weeks every year. There is also an interesting discussion about Islam and how we welcome them to our Western countries, but we are certainly not welcome in theirs.
No one has more influence in the world than the President of the United States. He (I guess I can call him he since there has never been a woman president) can have a positive or a negative impact on the direction of events in the world. As I’ve traveled around Europe, the people of those nations are well aware of the impact the decisions made by the President have on their lives. They wish they had a vote in the process. They count on us as United States citizens to choose wisely. The Pope might be the second most influential man on world events. Certainly world leaders, regardless of their political or religious affiliations, appreciate the support of the Pope in regards to any changes they are trying to make to the lives of their citizens.
So far 127,253,037 votes have been counted of the people who elected the next President of the United States. Over 2 million more people voted for Hillary Clinton than did for Donald Trump, but due to the system put in place by our Founding Fathers, who didn’t really trust the rabble of American voters, the electoral college supersedes the results of the popular vote. Sounds vaguely undemocratic, doesn’t it?
There are 1.2 billion Catholics across the face of the planet. 41.3% of those Catholics live in South America, almost double the 23.7% that live in Europe. 118 Cardinals (there are more Cardinals than this, but there is a rule that those over 80 years of age cannot vote in the conclave) are sequestered in conclave to decide who will be the next spiritual leader of those 1.2 billion people. You are going to need a lot of zeros after the decimal point before you reach the percentage of representation those 118 embody.
Here are how the Cardinals break down by country.
AFRICA - 20 cardinals from 17 countries
AMERICA - 57 cardinals from 19 countries
ASIA - 23 cardinals from 11 countries
EUROPE - 114 cardinals from 24 countries
OCEANIA - 5 cardinals from 3 countries
TOTAL - 219 cardinals from 73 countries
Map of populations of Catholics in the World.
Anybody else see something askew? Europeans hold a huge advantage in electing the Pope, regardless of the number of Catholics they represent. So as undemocratic as this recent United States presidential election feels, it is without contestation way closer to representing the wishes of the people than the process used to determine the leader of the Catholic church.
I know I’ve drifted away from a standard book review, but this is the result of reading. This book brought up some points which made me curious to explore further. I’ve deepened my understanding of those issues, and that will make me a better reader for books that touch on this same issue in the future. Regardless of how interested you are in the bigger picture, this book is a fantastic, page turning thriller that had me up til 2AM to find out who would be the next Pope. Highly Recommended!
If you wish to see more of my most recent book and movie reviews, visit http://www.jeffreykeeten.com
I also have a Facebook blogger page at: https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyKeeten
The Power of God, the Ambition of Men.
Cardinal Jacopo Lomeli has been contemplating retirement to peaceful meditation and study for several years now, but the Pope insists that he still needs him at the Vatican. Lomeli is maybe a better manager than he is priest. This assessment makes Jacopo uneasy because it feels like a deviation from what he feels his real purpose should be.
Can a manager truly be close to God? How much closer to God can he get than to be the Dean for the Pope? He is seventy-five years old and serves at the discretion of the Pope. By serving the Pope, he serves God.
And then the Pope dies.
After the initial shock and more than a few prayers, Lomeli suddenly realizes, as the Dean, he is responsible for managing the conclave that will select the next Pope. God have mercy on his soul.
”My body is clay, my good fame a vapour, my end is ashes.”
Managing a conclave is pretty much as terrifying as it seems. The egos of the Cardinals arriving are so large that the room can barely contain the mass of their collective self-esteem. As we all know, they must be sequestered during the conclave to insure that no outside influence can be brought to bear on the process. Despite all the precautions, there are always those who will go to great lengths to circumvent any system. Fervent disagreements arise early in the process as Cardinals jockey for votes, as piously as possible, thinly disguising their most vehement desires to be the most powerful spiritual leader on the planet. Lomeli is unnerved by the spectacle of so much naked aspirations, but at the same time, he is also trying to control his own ambitious pride. ”We are an ark, he thought, surrounded by a rising flood of discord.”
He doesn’t want to be Pope. He doesn’t, but he does have the name he would use selected if God does call him to serve. As much as Lomeli tells himself and others that he doesn’t want to be Pope, there is a small part of his heart that glows with the possibility.
As if Lomeli doesn’t have enough to do, an unknown Cardinal shows up claiming that he received the red hat: ”In pectore (‘in the heart’) was the ancient provision under which a Pope could create a cardinal without revealing his name….” A Pope only does this if the Cardinal is working in an area hostile to Catholicism. Cardinal Benitez is a Filipino by birth but has worked in dangerous areas across Africa. He has the paperwork to prove that the recently departed Pope had named him the Cardinal of Baghdad.
There is a series of votes without any conclusive leader. There are four main contenders, but each of them has issues that could keep them from obtaining the papacy. I found myself sliding my thumb over the tallies until I’d read the paragraphs leading up to the results. I was on the edge of my seat in similar fashion to when I was watching the movie Lincoln, and they were voting on the Emancipation Proclamation.
As more and more is revealed about the leading candidates, Lomeli finds himself in the uncomfortable position of investigating the various allegations that start to come to light. As he makes these indiscretions known to the Cardinals, it starts to look like Lomeli is meticulously eliminating his competition to be Pope.
Is he just doing his duty, or is his secret desire guiding his actions? The shocking conclusion(s) to this conclave will rock you on your heels.
In the course of his novel, Robert Harris had the opportunity to discuss the growing number of Catholics located outside of Europe and their underrepresentation with Cardinal hats. One wonders when that revolution will spark. It makes perfect sense to me that maybe the Pope needs more than one residence. When I think about the Kings/Queens of England and their numerous households scattered about the British Isles, it makes sense that they would spend time at each of these residences to show an interest in their subjects far from London. Maybe the Pope needs an offshoot of the Vatican in South America, for instance, where he would spend a few weeks every year. There is also an interesting discussion about Islam and how we welcome them to our Western countries, but we are certainly not welcome in theirs.
No one has more influence in the world than the President of the United States. He (I guess I can call him he since there has never been a woman president) can have a positive or a negative impact on the direction of events in the world. As I’ve traveled around Europe, the people of those nations are well aware of the impact the decisions made by the President have on their lives. They wish they had a vote in the process. They count on us as United States citizens to choose wisely. The Pope might be the second most influential man on world events. Certainly world leaders, regardless of their political or religious affiliations, appreciate the support of the Pope in regards to any changes they are trying to make to the lives of their citizens.
So far 127,253,037 votes have been counted of the people who elected the next President of the United States. Over 2 million more people voted for Hillary Clinton than did for Donald Trump, but due to the system put in place by our Founding Fathers, who didn’t really trust the rabble of American voters, the electoral college supersedes the results of the popular vote. Sounds vaguely undemocratic, doesn’t it?
There are 1.2 billion Catholics across the face of the planet. 41.3% of those Catholics live in South America, almost double the 23.7% that live in Europe. 118 Cardinals (there are more Cardinals than this, but there is a rule that those over 80 years of age cannot vote in the conclave) are sequestered in conclave to decide who will be the next spiritual leader of those 1.2 billion people. You are going to need a lot of zeros after the decimal point before you reach the percentage of representation those 118 embody.
Here are how the Cardinals break down by country.
AFRICA - 20 cardinals from 17 countries
AMERICA - 57 cardinals from 19 countries
ASIA - 23 cardinals from 11 countries
EUROPE - 114 cardinals from 24 countries
OCEANIA - 5 cardinals from 3 countries
TOTAL - 219 cardinals from 73 countries
Map of populations of Catholics in the World.
Anybody else see something askew? Europeans hold a huge advantage in electing the Pope, regardless of the number of Catholics they represent. So as undemocratic as this recent United States presidential election feels, it is without contestation way closer to representing the wishes of the people than the process used to determine the leader of the Catholic church.
I know I’ve drifted away from a standard book review, but this is the result of reading. This book brought up some points which made me curious to explore further. I’ve deepened my understanding of those issues, and that will make me a better reader for books that touch on this same issue in the future. Regardless of how interested you are in the bigger picture, this book is a fantastic, page turning thriller that had me up til 2AM to find out who would be the next Pope. Highly Recommended!
If you wish to see more of my most recent book and movie reviews, visit http://www.jeffreykeeten.com
I also have a Facebook blogger page at: https://www.facebook.com/JeffreyKeeten
October 21, 2016
4.5 The second book in as many days that I didn't want to put down. It initially appealed to me because I spent most of my school years in Catholic schools, was pretty young when Vatican two came around. All I really remember is that we no longer had to go to mass every morning at 6:30 am, before school started, that mass was no longer in Latin and that the nuns started wearing shorter habit, shorter veils and in different shades of pastel. Pretty big, though small in the scheme of things I suppose, to a small child.
The pope has died, descriptions of a peoples pope, a pope who refused to live in the grandeur of the Vatican apartments, point to this representing our current Pope, Francis. The dean of the Cardinals, is the Cardinal charged with making sure the Conclave runs smoothly, that all 118 cardinals from all over the world, adhere to the strict measures set within. Just like our political system, where each side represents different positions, there are factions with varying opinions on the future of the church. So the jockeying begins, votes are taken and the intrigue begins. Never expected to find myself completely enthralled by this inside look of what it takes to elect our next pope. Didn't expect so many revelations nor what extent some cardinals would to to hide offenses that would keep, them out of the running. Found myself totally glued to these pages, wanting to see what would happen next, who would ultimately be elected.
A well written novel, my first by this author, and a wonderful portrayal of not only the differences in the many cardinals but how many differences there are in their views of the Church's future. The ending, could it happen? Probably. Would it happen? Who knows but I am not sure it is realistic. Still, I applaud the author for this total surprise, one I did not see coming.
ARC from publisher.
The pope has died, descriptions of a peoples pope, a pope who refused to live in the grandeur of the Vatican apartments, point to this representing our current Pope, Francis. The dean of the Cardinals, is the Cardinal charged with making sure the Conclave runs smoothly, that all 118 cardinals from all over the world, adhere to the strict measures set within. Just like our political system, where each side represents different positions, there are factions with varying opinions on the future of the church. So the jockeying begins, votes are taken and the intrigue begins. Never expected to find myself completely enthralled by this inside look of what it takes to elect our next pope. Didn't expect so many revelations nor what extent some cardinals would to to hide offenses that would keep, them out of the running. Found myself totally glued to these pages, wanting to see what would happen next, who would ultimately be elected.
A well written novel, my first by this author, and a wonderful portrayal of not only the differences in the many cardinals but how many differences there are in their views of the Church's future. The ending, could it happen? Probably. Would it happen? Who knows but I am not sure it is realistic. Still, I applaud the author for this total surprise, one I did not see coming.
ARC from publisher.
December 16, 2020
Upon borrowing this novel, I expected another conspiracy theory regarding the death of the pope and action-packed thriller. Fortunately, this novel, while being close to a thriller, offers much more. It takes us through the process of electing a new pope, with detailed descriptions of the procedures, rituals and places, however, it also reminds us that participants of conclave may be driven by forces that are material rather than spiritual. A thoroughly enjoyable and well-narrated book.
October 31, 2024
After seeing the movie, I wanted a quick re-read of this spectacular book!
Harris returns with another remarkable novel of historical fiction, turning his narrative to the present as he explores a highly pious and political event.
THE POPE IS DEAD! This startling piece of news makes its way to the ears of Cardinal Lomeli in the early hours one October morning. Heading to the apartment of the Holy Father, Lomeli is met by a small group, who confirm the news and begin the proscribed acts required when the Vatican is without its Supreme Pontiff. As the news becomes public, Lomeli is tasked with preparing for the highly publicised, though extremely secret, event known as The Conclave.
As Dean of the College of Cardinals, Lomeli must organise the election of the next pope, which is only a few weeks hence. During the intervening time, the funeral must take place and Lomeli handles sundry pieces of Vatican business ahead of the papal election. As cardinals arrive from all over the world to cast their ballots, Lomeli wrestles with a few issues surrounding cardinal electors, including one Cardinal Tremblay—the Vatican Camerlengo and temporary leader—a French-Canadian who was apparently removed from all positions the night before the pope died.
As if this were not enough to occupy his time, as 117 confirmed cardinals have arrived for Conclave, a mysterious figure appears and makes he known that he, too, is a cardinal eligible to choose the next pontiff. Vincent Benitez, Archbishop of Baghdad, was appointed a cardinal in pectore, 'in the heart', and was known only to the recently deceased pope and God. Seeing the documentation and meditating on this oddity, Lomeli grants Benitez access to the Conclave and the preliminary events commence.
Even before being sequestered into the Sistene Chapel, there are a few front runners for the position, all of whom seek to solidify their supporters before the voting begins. Tremblay stands firm that he can speak best for the Catholic Church, being a North American without being from America; Bellini, the current Secretary of State from Italy, served the last pope well on the world scene and can continue with his liberal outlook in directing the Church; Adeyemi, a cardinal from Nigeria, seeks to lead the way for the Third World and present the Church with its first black pontiff; and Tedesco, Italian and pining for a return of a fellow countryman to the Throne of St. Peter, who will also remove the impediments that Vatican II ushered in, keeping the faith pure and the language of the Church equally so. These four men vie as best they can before cardinals place their minds in God's hand to help them cast their ballots.
Once the Conclave begins, Lomeli must continue running it by the strict orders laid out in the Apostolic Constitution, which includes specific rules and processes. While the outside world is left to wonder what is going on, receiving only the most minimal of news in the form of curling smoke from a chimney, inside the Sistene Chapel there is much politicking. Lomeli uncovers great issues with two of the front runners, whose power dwindles as the Dean uses the Constitution to keep the Conclave on track.
As the ballots mount, surprises continue, and not even an act of terror can stop the cardinals from choosing the new Catholic leader. Voting continues until one cardinal receives the proscribed two-thirds of the votes, which seems almost impossible until impassioned speeches before the eighth ballot. Lomeli is on the verge of witnessing history, but even then, there is one more surprise that no one saw coming. From the embers of the deceased pope comes the cry the world has waited to hear: Habemus papam (We have a Pope)! A thought-provoking thriller that keeps readers glued to the page until the very last sentence.
This is a brilliant piece that pulls together the most political event in the world, far exceeding the election of an American president (and this is from a non-Catholic). The intricacies and nuances with a Conclave are enough to drive any historian or political fanatic mad, but to create one in a piece of fiction is surely an even more onerous task. Harris develops a wonderful collection of characters to serve as cardinals and support staff, though he promises in his author's note that none are based on actual people. Using these multi-dimensional individuals, the narrative moves in interesting ways to enrich the story the further it advances, using Lomeli as the central protagonist throughout. From what I know of Conclaves and the rules surrounding them, Harris has used everything at his disposal to create momentum in the most interesting of spots without dragging things out too much or weighing the story down in a constitutional miasma.
Tackling the fallibility of each cardinal, the struggle between man and God, the views of the outside world, and the highly political event that is electing the Supreme Pontiff, Harris delivers a thriller that far exceeds any expectations and does so in under three hundred pages. Weaving dramatic interactions into the storyline, the reader is left to cheer on their favourite cardinal, in hopes that he will obtain the magic eighty votes. I cannot think of a novel that churned up so much political excitement in me or so flawlessly depicts this highly secretive event as a Conclave. Readers of all political and religious stripes will surely enjoy devouring this piece, which reads so fluidly and is timeless in its presentation that it could be read over the years without losing any lustre.
Kudos, Mr. Harris for entertaining, educating, and keeping the reader guessing until the very end.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Harris returns with another remarkable novel of historical fiction, turning his narrative to the present as he explores a highly pious and political event.
THE POPE IS DEAD! This startling piece of news makes its way to the ears of Cardinal Lomeli in the early hours one October morning. Heading to the apartment of the Holy Father, Lomeli is met by a small group, who confirm the news and begin the proscribed acts required when the Vatican is without its Supreme Pontiff. As the news becomes public, Lomeli is tasked with preparing for the highly publicised, though extremely secret, event known as The Conclave.
As Dean of the College of Cardinals, Lomeli must organise the election of the next pope, which is only a few weeks hence. During the intervening time, the funeral must take place and Lomeli handles sundry pieces of Vatican business ahead of the papal election. As cardinals arrive from all over the world to cast their ballots, Lomeli wrestles with a few issues surrounding cardinal electors, including one Cardinal Tremblay—the Vatican Camerlengo and temporary leader—a French-Canadian who was apparently removed from all positions the night before the pope died.
As if this were not enough to occupy his time, as 117 confirmed cardinals have arrived for Conclave, a mysterious figure appears and makes he known that he, too, is a cardinal eligible to choose the next pontiff. Vincent Benitez, Archbishop of Baghdad, was appointed a cardinal in pectore, 'in the heart', and was known only to the recently deceased pope and God. Seeing the documentation and meditating on this oddity, Lomeli grants Benitez access to the Conclave and the preliminary events commence.
Even before being sequestered into the Sistene Chapel, there are a few front runners for the position, all of whom seek to solidify their supporters before the voting begins. Tremblay stands firm that he can speak best for the Catholic Church, being a North American without being from America; Bellini, the current Secretary of State from Italy, served the last pope well on the world scene and can continue with his liberal outlook in directing the Church; Adeyemi, a cardinal from Nigeria, seeks to lead the way for the Third World and present the Church with its first black pontiff; and Tedesco, Italian and pining for a return of a fellow countryman to the Throne of St. Peter, who will also remove the impediments that Vatican II ushered in, keeping the faith pure and the language of the Church equally so. These four men vie as best they can before cardinals place their minds in God's hand to help them cast their ballots.
Once the Conclave begins, Lomeli must continue running it by the strict orders laid out in the Apostolic Constitution, which includes specific rules and processes. While the outside world is left to wonder what is going on, receiving only the most minimal of news in the form of curling smoke from a chimney, inside the Sistene Chapel there is much politicking. Lomeli uncovers great issues with two of the front runners, whose power dwindles as the Dean uses the Constitution to keep the Conclave on track.
As the ballots mount, surprises continue, and not even an act of terror can stop the cardinals from choosing the new Catholic leader. Voting continues until one cardinal receives the proscribed two-thirds of the votes, which seems almost impossible until impassioned speeches before the eighth ballot. Lomeli is on the verge of witnessing history, but even then, there is one more surprise that no one saw coming. From the embers of the deceased pope comes the cry the world has waited to hear: Habemus papam (We have a Pope)! A thought-provoking thriller that keeps readers glued to the page until the very last sentence.
This is a brilliant piece that pulls together the most political event in the world, far exceeding the election of an American president (and this is from a non-Catholic). The intricacies and nuances with a Conclave are enough to drive any historian or political fanatic mad, but to create one in a piece of fiction is surely an even more onerous task. Harris develops a wonderful collection of characters to serve as cardinals and support staff, though he promises in his author's note that none are based on actual people. Using these multi-dimensional individuals, the narrative moves in interesting ways to enrich the story the further it advances, using Lomeli as the central protagonist throughout. From what I know of Conclaves and the rules surrounding them, Harris has used everything at his disposal to create momentum in the most interesting of spots without dragging things out too much or weighing the story down in a constitutional miasma.
Tackling the fallibility of each cardinal, the struggle between man and God, the views of the outside world, and the highly political event that is electing the Supreme Pontiff, Harris delivers a thriller that far exceeds any expectations and does so in under three hundred pages. Weaving dramatic interactions into the storyline, the reader is left to cheer on their favourite cardinal, in hopes that he will obtain the magic eighty votes. I cannot think of a novel that churned up so much political excitement in me or so flawlessly depicts this highly secretive event as a Conclave. Readers of all political and religious stripes will surely enjoy devouring this piece, which reads so fluidly and is timeless in its presentation that it could be read over the years without losing any lustre.
Kudos, Mr. Harris for entertaining, educating, and keeping the reader guessing until the very end.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
September 16, 2020
4 "solid, carefully layered, quietly thrilling" stars !!
We have all of Mr. Robert Harris' novels and I have read none of them. When I saw this in the bookstore, however, I just had to have it. I was allowed to buy it on the condition that I start reading it within two weeks of purchase. I live with a tyrant but a sweet and generous one :)
After reading this novel I will be certain to read all his others as Mr. Harris is an excellent and subtle storyteller. He has done meticulous research on the traditions and laws of Roman Catholic Conclave and created an exciting and compelling story of a fictionalized account in the near future.
Among my agnostic friends and friends that are ex-Catholics they questioned my desire to read this novel. I am not Catholic but have learned an awful lot from wise clergy, compassionate nuns and monks and have been moved spiritually when attending Old Rites services. I have also witnessed the great social justice work that is done by liberation theologians and practitioners in Latin America. This is not to say that great evil has not been perpetuated by this huge institution including widespread childhood sexual abuse and the oppression of women, sexual minorities and other faiths. I digress ( as usual) and will start with a quote from the book:
" Bless you, Sister, for your generosity. I believe my heart is pure. But how can any one of say for sure why we act as we do? In my experience, the basest sins are often committed for the highest motives. "
This book follows Lomelli a cardinal who has the task of facilitating Conclave as the Dean of Cardinals. We follow his investigations into corruption, secrets, his spiritual struggles and the reflection of his own conscience as he navigates mystery upon mystery of this compelling novel.
Mr. Harris has great skill in painting portraits with very little information and only a few colors to create realistic dialogue, fascinating tension and the formation of alliances and the development of schisms.
Mr. Harris does not weigh us down with too much detail but enough to get a crystal clear picture of procedure, strategy and ambience. He understands politics, human psychology and the struggle of the spirit.
A wonderful and thrilling read. I look forward to your Roman trilogy Mr. Harris !!
We have all of Mr. Robert Harris' novels and I have read none of them. When I saw this in the bookstore, however, I just had to have it. I was allowed to buy it on the condition that I start reading it within two weeks of purchase. I live with a tyrant but a sweet and generous one :)
After reading this novel I will be certain to read all his others as Mr. Harris is an excellent and subtle storyteller. He has done meticulous research on the traditions and laws of Roman Catholic Conclave and created an exciting and compelling story of a fictionalized account in the near future.
Among my agnostic friends and friends that are ex-Catholics they questioned my desire to read this novel. I am not Catholic but have learned an awful lot from wise clergy, compassionate nuns and monks and have been moved spiritually when attending Old Rites services. I have also witnessed the great social justice work that is done by liberation theologians and practitioners in Latin America. This is not to say that great evil has not been perpetuated by this huge institution including widespread childhood sexual abuse and the oppression of women, sexual minorities and other faiths. I digress ( as usual) and will start with a quote from the book:
" Bless you, Sister, for your generosity. I believe my heart is pure. But how can any one of say for sure why we act as we do? In my experience, the basest sins are often committed for the highest motives. "
This book follows Lomelli a cardinal who has the task of facilitating Conclave as the Dean of Cardinals. We follow his investigations into corruption, secrets, his spiritual struggles and the reflection of his own conscience as he navigates mystery upon mystery of this compelling novel.
Mr. Harris has great skill in painting portraits with very little information and only a few colors to create realistic dialogue, fascinating tension and the formation of alliances and the development of schisms.
Mr. Harris does not weigh us down with too much detail but enough to get a crystal clear picture of procedure, strategy and ambience. He understands politics, human psychology and the struggle of the spirit.
A wonderful and thrilling read. I look forward to your Roman trilogy Mr. Harris !!
September 16, 2022
Siempre me ha interesado la historia de la Iglesia Católica. Por consiguiente, cuando fallece un Papa llevo un seguimiento del proceso del cónclave, desde el Extra omnes! («¡Fuera todos!») hasta la Fumata Blanca. Mucho se ha especulado sobre las intrigas palaciegas que tienen lugar en dichos eventos, y me imagino que se nos pondrían los pelos de punta si pudiéramos escuchar las deliberaciones en directo, por no hablar de las de la época de los Borgia, por poner un ejemplo.
Robert Harris nos presenta uno de esos supuestos en esta magnífica novela, y la sitúa aproximadamente al fallecimiento del actual Papa Francisco, aunque este nunca sea mencionado en dichos términos. Curiosamente, sí que menciona a los Papas anteriores, con hechos verídicos. La lectura es entretenida y muy instructiva. Pero le rebajo una estrella porque no puedo creerme el final, que no desvelaré por motivos obvios. Sin ser una obra maestra a la altura de su trilogía sobre Cicerón, creo que es lo suficientemente interesante como para enganchar a muchos lectores.
Robert Harris nos presenta uno de esos supuestos en esta magnífica novela, y la sitúa aproximadamente al fallecimiento del actual Papa Francisco, aunque este nunca sea mencionado en dichos términos. Curiosamente, sí que menciona a los Papas anteriores, con hechos verídicos. La lectura es entretenida y muy instructiva. Pero le rebajo una estrella porque no puedo creerme el final, que no desvelaré por motivos obvios. Sin ser una obra maestra a la altura de su trilogía sobre Cicerón, creo que es lo suficientemente interesante como para enganchar a muchos lectores.
April 28, 2022
Ai Vaticano, Ai, Ai!...
Sede Vacante — a morte do Papa vigente deixou vago o lugar supremo na hierarquia da Igreja Católica.
Até ao Habemus Papa haverá um longo caminho a percorrer.
Será necessário um coordenador para levar a bom termo o melindroso processo e coube ao Cardeal Lomeli a honrosa missão.
A Lomeli, que pouco tempo antes requerera o seu afastamento da Cúria ao Santo Padre, alegando uma recente crise espiritual. Porém, Sua Eminência recusara o seu pedido, pois o Cardeal era um homem íntegro e um gestor nato, e logo imprescindível ao Líder Supremo da Igreja.
"Não se preocupe, Cardeal! A seu tempo, Deus retornará a si! Ele vai... mas volta sempre!...", vaticinara o Santo Padre.
E de facto, assim foi!
Lomeli empenhou-se arduamente na missão confiada — desvendou traições, chantagens, compras de votos,...a corrupção grassava pela Cúria e urgia apartar o trigo do joio, garantindo que a eleição papal procedesse dentre os Filhos do Reino...
Conclave é um thriller que explora os efeitos do poder no seio da Cúria Romana e, colateralmente, denuncia luxos, riquezas e negócios.
O seu autor foi jornalista político e, talvez por isso, nos apresente uma história deveras credível, com um desfecho incrível e intensamente provocador!...
A corrupção no Vaticano já há muito que é notícia:
A pedofilia está na ordem do dia, e dos milhões de euros que dão entrada no Banco do Vaticano, apenas uma ínfima parte é aplicada em obras de caridade, destinando-se a grande fatia do bolo a investimentos em acções e bens imobiliários.
Na Cúria, a corrupção é tal, que o Papa Francisco decidiu empreender uma operação de limpeza. A mando da religião, brada-se por uma Igreja humilde, ao serviço dos fiéis e desfavorecidos, o que de momento está longe de suceder!…
Despeço-me, legando-vos um link com um mapa da corrupção no atual Vaticano:
http://visao.sapo.pt/actualidade/mund...
Sede Vacante — a morte do Papa vigente deixou vago o lugar supremo na hierarquia da Igreja Católica.
Até ao Habemus Papa haverá um longo caminho a percorrer.
Será necessário um coordenador para levar a bom termo o melindroso processo e coube ao Cardeal Lomeli a honrosa missão.
A Lomeli, que pouco tempo antes requerera o seu afastamento da Cúria ao Santo Padre, alegando uma recente crise espiritual. Porém, Sua Eminência recusara o seu pedido, pois o Cardeal era um homem íntegro e um gestor nato, e logo imprescindível ao Líder Supremo da Igreja.
"Não se preocupe, Cardeal! A seu tempo, Deus retornará a si! Ele vai... mas volta sempre!...", vaticinara o Santo Padre.
E de facto, assim foi!
Lomeli empenhou-se arduamente na missão confiada — desvendou traições, chantagens, compras de votos,...a corrupção grassava pela Cúria e urgia apartar o trigo do joio, garantindo que a eleição papal procedesse dentre os Filhos do Reino...
Conclave é um thriller que explora os efeitos do poder no seio da Cúria Romana e, colateralmente, denuncia luxos, riquezas e negócios.
O seu autor foi jornalista político e, talvez por isso, nos apresente uma história deveras credível, com um desfecho incrível e intensamente provocador!...
A corrupção no Vaticano já há muito que é notícia:
A pedofilia está na ordem do dia, e dos milhões de euros que dão entrada no Banco do Vaticano, apenas uma ínfima parte é aplicada em obras de caridade, destinando-se a grande fatia do bolo a investimentos em acções e bens imobiliários.
Na Cúria, a corrupção é tal, que o Papa Francisco decidiu empreender uma operação de limpeza. A mando da religião, brada-se por uma Igreja humilde, ao serviço dos fiéis e desfavorecidos, o que de momento está longe de suceder!…
Despeço-me, legando-vos um link com um mapa da corrupção no atual Vaticano:
http://visao.sapo.pt/actualidade/mund...
December 29, 2016
This is a lonely place, and the hour is now late...
Interesting, fascinating, intriguing. 'Unputdownable'(Guardian), yes, that is the right word.
The process of the Vatican Conclave, the thought of the beautiful art there and an intrigue. What goes on behind those closed doors? It kept me reading to get to the twist. The twist... mmmm... far fetched? Well who knows, in today's day & age. I did love the struggle of Cardinal & Dean Lomeli in guiding the delicate process of the Conclave. Great book. Note: great cover. The atmosphere of the red cover pulled me in. In the afterword the author writes that he was allowed to visit the locations used during a Conclave that are permanently closed to the public. Wow, wish I could do that...
It made me think I really need to visit Rome and the Vatican again soon. Wander the streets in wonder and awe.... Great book. Recommended!
Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the Apostles' hands, he offered them money, saying, 'Give me also this power, that any one on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit'. But Peter said to him, 'May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!'...
Interesting, fascinating, intriguing. 'Unputdownable'(Guardian), yes, that is the right word.
The process of the Vatican Conclave, the thought of the beautiful art there and an intrigue. What goes on behind those closed doors? It kept me reading to get to the twist. The twist... mmmm... far fetched? Well who knows, in today's day & age. I did love the struggle of Cardinal & Dean Lomeli in guiding the delicate process of the Conclave. Great book. Note: great cover. The atmosphere of the red cover pulled me in. In the afterword the author writes that he was allowed to visit the locations used during a Conclave that are permanently closed to the public. Wow, wish I could do that...
It made me think I really need to visit Rome and the Vatican again soon. Wander the streets in wonder and awe.... Great book. Recommended!
Now when Simon saw that the Spirit was given through the laying on of the Apostles' hands, he offered them money, saying, 'Give me also this power, that any one on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit'. But Peter said to him, 'May your silver perish with you, because you thought you could obtain the gift of God with money!'...
April 30, 2017
4.5 Stars
I was baptized Catholic, my mother raised in the Catholic faith, my father converted so they could be married in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria, Virginia. My older brother was also baptized Catholic, not that I recall either of these events, but I do remember when my younger brother was baptized in the Episcopal church, where we went until I was in my early teens. I didn’t know until I was 24, when my godmother mentioned it to me, but I did spend a bit of time inside the Catholic church growing up, with one neighborhood girl who enjoyed “sneaking” in to light the candles. This wasn’t all that strange considering that even though it’s probably a mile walk, the woods behind my house backed up to the Catholic Church property.
It’s 2:00 a.m. when Cardinal Lomeli is hurried through the dark walkways of the Vatican to the Pope’s bedroom, whispering prayers as he hastens to his side, begging for his life to be spared. Memories of their last talks flood his thoughts as the elevator slowly rises.
”Later, Lomeli would look back on this as the moment when the contest for the succession began.”
The Pope was gone before Lomeli arrived at his side, and he is grieving, not wanting to face the responsibilities that are now facing him. He is the Dean of the Cardinals, and as such it is his job to make sure that he is on top of everything involved in the Conclave, the transition from the now deceased, much loved Pope, to the newly elected Pope-to-be. It must be handled flawlessly, the entire world will be watching.
One hundred and eighteen Cardinals from all over the world gather for this process, the College of Cardinals voting over and over until there is a clear choice. This was fascinating to me. I had only read the first 20 pages the day before, but I could not put this book down once I picked it up again. There are some hints that perhaps some of the Cardinals are more favoured than others to rank higher in the number of votes, but the process is such that it gives you a perspective that can’t be attained with only one vote, such as in the US Presidential polls.
As each voting “round” goes by, the votes are counted for each Cardinal. Behind the scenes of each vote, though, there is enough scheming and maneuvering to make your head spin. Would the leading three Cardinals in position maintain their positions? Which one of them would be the next Bishop of Rome, the Pope?
This is a truly fascinating novel, with writing that just flows effortlessly from page to page leaving the reader to focus on this fictional peek behind these lives lived beyond our sight, peeling back the layers of sins, the secrets, the mysteries of these lives.
Harris had the privilege of visiting these locations, not available to the public, to facilitate his research. It shows in the lovely details he gives of the process, the location, the traditions, day-to-day life and dedication involved. This really helped to bring this to life for me.
Recommended!
I was baptized Catholic, my mother raised in the Catholic faith, my father converted so they could be married in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alexandria, Virginia. My older brother was also baptized Catholic, not that I recall either of these events, but I do remember when my younger brother was baptized in the Episcopal church, where we went until I was in my early teens. I didn’t know until I was 24, when my godmother mentioned it to me, but I did spend a bit of time inside the Catholic church growing up, with one neighborhood girl who enjoyed “sneaking” in to light the candles. This wasn’t all that strange considering that even though it’s probably a mile walk, the woods behind my house backed up to the Catholic Church property.
It’s 2:00 a.m. when Cardinal Lomeli is hurried through the dark walkways of the Vatican to the Pope’s bedroom, whispering prayers as he hastens to his side, begging for his life to be spared. Memories of their last talks flood his thoughts as the elevator slowly rises.
”Later, Lomeli would look back on this as the moment when the contest for the succession began.”
The Pope was gone before Lomeli arrived at his side, and he is grieving, not wanting to face the responsibilities that are now facing him. He is the Dean of the Cardinals, and as such it is his job to make sure that he is on top of everything involved in the Conclave, the transition from the now deceased, much loved Pope, to the newly elected Pope-to-be. It must be handled flawlessly, the entire world will be watching.
One hundred and eighteen Cardinals from all over the world gather for this process, the College of Cardinals voting over and over until there is a clear choice. This was fascinating to me. I had only read the first 20 pages the day before, but I could not put this book down once I picked it up again. There are some hints that perhaps some of the Cardinals are more favoured than others to rank higher in the number of votes, but the process is such that it gives you a perspective that can’t be attained with only one vote, such as in the US Presidential polls.
As each voting “round” goes by, the votes are counted for each Cardinal. Behind the scenes of each vote, though, there is enough scheming and maneuvering to make your head spin. Would the leading three Cardinals in position maintain their positions? Which one of them would be the next Bishop of Rome, the Pope?
This is a truly fascinating novel, with writing that just flows effortlessly from page to page leaving the reader to focus on this fictional peek behind these lives lived beyond our sight, peeling back the layers of sins, the secrets, the mysteries of these lives.
Harris had the privilege of visiting these locations, not available to the public, to facilitate his research. It shows in the lovely details he gives of the process, the location, the traditions, day-to-day life and dedication involved. This really helped to bring this to life for me.
Recommended!
November 26, 2016
A captivating and intelligent thriller that takes us inside the Vatican for an election of the new pope.
I wasn't entirely sure I wanted to read this novel but something about it's cover drew me to the book and the fact that a couple of my goodread friend's enjoyed it I knew I had to step outside for comfort zone and give it a try and what a enjoyable and interesting read it was. It's one of those books that quietly sucks you in and you just keep turning the pages.
Conclave, as its title title suggests, is about a papal conclave set sometime in the near future. The pope has died and the cardinals are gathering to elect his successor, cardinals from all over the world, some have ambition and some are rivals but each one will cast his vote in the World's more secretive election.
This is one of those books that is a slow but effective burner, the writing is good and the plot entertaining. I loved the character's of Lomeli, Sister Agnes and O'Malley. Its a short read I think it would make a great book club discussion book.
I wasn't entirely sure I wanted to read this novel but something about it's cover drew me to the book and the fact that a couple of my goodread friend's enjoyed it I knew I had to step outside for comfort zone and give it a try and what a enjoyable and interesting read it was. It's one of those books that quietly sucks you in and you just keep turning the pages.
Conclave, as its title title suggests, is about a papal conclave set sometime in the near future. The pope has died and the cardinals are gathering to elect his successor, cardinals from all over the world, some have ambition and some are rivals but each one will cast his vote in the World's more secretive election.
This is one of those books that is a slow but effective burner, the writing is good and the plot entertaining. I loved the character's of Lomeli, Sister Agnes and O'Malley. Its a short read I think it would make a great book club discussion book.
December 28, 2016
4.4★
Holy smoke was this a good one.
The blurb tells you what you need to know. I had never read or heard of this author but most definitely will be checking out his other books.
It was compelling, fascinating, intelligent and ... that ending! Did not see that coming. Most enjoyable. Next!
Holy smoke was this a good one.
The blurb tells you what you need to know. I had never read or heard of this author but most definitely will be checking out his other books.
It was compelling, fascinating, intelligent and ... that ending! Did not see that coming. Most enjoyable. Next!
February 6, 2017
Excellent read! It almost felt like historical fiction because there was quite a lot about the traditions of the conclave and also where the outside world is deliberately shut out for the process of electing a new pope, it almost might have been set 400 years ago.
I'm lucky enough to have visited Rome and the Vatican and it really helped me to visualise the setting. I also saw a programme about the Borgias and a dramatised version of the Conclave, so when I saw this book I knew I would have to read it.
This book has plenty of intrigue and thrills and it really kept me guessing. It's quite a short book and I found it hard to put down.. if you fancy a book with a thrill of a different kind, this book could be for you. Recommended.
I'm lucky enough to have visited Rome and the Vatican and it really helped me to visualise the setting. I also saw a programme about the Borgias and a dramatised version of the Conclave, so when I saw this book I knew I would have to read it.
This book has plenty of intrigue and thrills and it really kept me guessing. It's quite a short book and I found it hard to put down.. if you fancy a book with a thrill of a different kind, this book could be for you. Recommended.
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May 31, 2021
5-Stars - I Thoroughly Enjoyed It!
(although it was not amazing)
Conclave - Robert Harris 2016
Audiobook - 08:19 Hours - Narrator: Roy Mcmillan
This is a book about the election of a new Pope and it takes place during a Conclave, which is a meeting of Roman Catholic cardinals who are secluded continuously within the walls of the Vatican during the election process. Conspiracies and machinations abound prior to a final election, inside the Sistine Chapel, of a “Pontifex Maximus”* or “Supreme Pontiff”, of the worldwide Roman Catholic Church
I have been “out” as a convinced atheist for over twenty years, yet I thoroughly enjoyed Conclave. My more than fifty years of diminishing devotion as a Roman Catholic, including my years as a junior seminarian, preparing to study for the priesthood, enabled me to understand, empathise with and enjoy what was going on!
I listened to this audiobook in basically three main sessions, including one when I fell asleep and had to search through many chapters for my lost place! It is only the second time this year that I have had the experience of having to force myself to take off my headphones while listening to my audiobook. My health (and general demeanour) demand that I have an inordinate amount of sleep to remain some level of sanity!
I recommend Conclave to readers interested in Roman Catholicism and Christian religions in general. Atheists and other non-believers should also find it a good read/listen, however, for their own enjoyment, they would benefit if they had formerly participated in, or recognised, the activities of the earlier Christian churches: the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox Catholic Churches, and “High”** versions of the Anglican, Church of England, and Episcopalian Churches.
Narrator Roy Mcmillan did not try to create multiple vocal characterisations, but he was able to add the right amount of accent and inflection as required to most of the main characters in a pleasant and palatable story telling voice.
*The Latin term "pontifex" means “bridge builder” and in ancient Roman religion, the head priest was called the "pontifex maximus" (the greatest bridge builder). Julius Caesar held this title more than 40 years, before Jesus was born, because ironically, when the early church fathers were writing, the Pontifex Maximus was the head of the Roman pagan religion, as the Roman Empire itself was pagan. This didn’t change until almost 400 CE when the Romans declared Christianity to be the state religion and the title was awarded to the Pope.
**“High” describes churches use of a number of liturgical, ceremonial, and traditional practices, often referred to by both High and Low adherents as “the bells and smells” associated with Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. The opposite tradition is "low church". Note that “Low” is not used as a pejorative, as the two terms simply describe different attitudes, forms, or theologies of worship.
(although it was not amazing)
Conclave - Robert Harris 2016
Audiobook - 08:19 Hours - Narrator: Roy Mcmillan
This is a book about the election of a new Pope and it takes place during a Conclave, which is a meeting of Roman Catholic cardinals who are secluded continuously within the walls of the Vatican during the election process. Conspiracies and machinations abound prior to a final election, inside the Sistine Chapel, of a “Pontifex Maximus”* or “Supreme Pontiff”, of the worldwide Roman Catholic Church
I have been “out” as a convinced atheist for over twenty years, yet I thoroughly enjoyed Conclave. My more than fifty years of diminishing devotion as a Roman Catholic, including my years as a junior seminarian, preparing to study for the priesthood, enabled me to understand, empathise with and enjoy what was going on!
I listened to this audiobook in basically three main sessions, including one when I fell asleep and had to search through many chapters for my lost place! It is only the second time this year that I have had the experience of having to force myself to take off my headphones while listening to my audiobook. My health (and general demeanour) demand that I have an inordinate amount of sleep to remain some level of sanity!
I recommend Conclave to readers interested in Roman Catholicism and Christian religions in general. Atheists and other non-believers should also find it a good read/listen, however, for their own enjoyment, they would benefit if they had formerly participated in, or recognised, the activities of the earlier Christian churches: the Roman Catholic Church, the Orthodox Catholic Churches, and “High”** versions of the Anglican, Church of England, and Episcopalian Churches.
Narrator Roy Mcmillan did not try to create multiple vocal characterisations, but he was able to add the right amount of accent and inflection as required to most of the main characters in a pleasant and palatable story telling voice.
*The Latin term "pontifex" means “bridge builder” and in ancient Roman religion, the head priest was called the "pontifex maximus" (the greatest bridge builder). Julius Caesar held this title more than 40 years, before Jesus was born, because ironically, when the early church fathers were writing, the Pontifex Maximus was the head of the Roman pagan religion, as the Roman Empire itself was pagan. This didn’t change until almost 400 CE when the Romans declared Christianity to be the state religion and the title was awarded to the Pope.
**“High” describes churches use of a number of liturgical, ceremonial, and traditional practices, often referred to by both High and Low adherents as “the bells and smells” associated with Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. The opposite tradition is "low church". Note that “Low” is not used as a pejorative, as the two terms simply describe different attitudes, forms, or theologies of worship.
December 16, 2016
The author, Robert Harris, was given the privilege of visiting the locations that are permanently closed to the public to help him in his research of this book. The reader is given an in-depth tour and detailed account of traditions and rituals that take place. His writing style makes it so easy to visualize every aspect of the happenings.
What starts out as a usual process for choosing a new pope, soon develops into a plot with numerous complications, unraveling secrets long hidden, and just when you think you have it all figured out, a new twist to the storyline is thrown in. It was interesting to me how much a role politics play in the selection.
The "Conclave" had me turning pages at a new pace. From the novel's beautiful cover to its last page that left me in complete surprise, I never wavered from being deeply involved. It's one of those books that comes along way too seldom.
This amazing book was one of my favorite reads for 2016.
What starts out as a usual process for choosing a new pope, soon develops into a plot with numerous complications, unraveling secrets long hidden, and just when you think you have it all figured out, a new twist to the storyline is thrown in. It was interesting to me how much a role politics play in the selection.
The "Conclave" had me turning pages at a new pace. From the novel's beautiful cover to its last page that left me in complete surprise, I never wavered from being deeply involved. It's one of those books that comes along way too seldom.
This amazing book was one of my favorite reads for 2016.
February 6, 2017
Interesting book, thought provoking with a great ending.
I thought this would be a thriller played against the backdrop of a Conclave. Turns out that it had more depth than I anticipated, with religious theory and the state of the church at the forefront and all the nessecary twists and turns until the church elects its new pope.
It is a little predicable, but nonetheless thoroughly enjoyable.
I thought this would be a thriller played against the backdrop of a Conclave. Turns out that it had more depth than I anticipated, with religious theory and the state of the church at the forefront and all the nessecary twists and turns until the church elects its new pope.
It is a little predicable, but nonetheless thoroughly enjoyable.
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars
One of the signs of a great book, to me, is that you feel you are actually living the book. I felt like I was in the middle of the Conclave and actually meeting and greeting the other Cardinals, meditating, plotting and participating in history. Yet it was all fiction. Every bit and still felt so real to me.
I have read other books about the Conclave so I had the basics down but Harris made it sing in a way that other books haven't. The grind, the boredom, the endless task of following tradition all lead to a moment when the members hope God speaks to them and gives them insight all come to life under Harris's skilled writing. I would rather poke my eyes out than sit there for endless hours without being able to read which probably explains why I am not a Cardinal, that and I am not Catholic, male or speak Latin.
The only slightly jarring note to me was the ending. I felt it was just little too pat, a little too politically correct and a little patronizing. The selected Pope had secrets too but why his was OK and others weren't was a puzzle of sorts to me. Still it was kind of fantastic in it's own way. It certainly caught me off guard. I certainly had something else in mind.
I think this is an excellent read and highly recommend it.
One of the signs of a great book, to me, is that you feel you are actually living the book. I felt like I was in the middle of the Conclave and actually meeting and greeting the other Cardinals, meditating, plotting and participating in history. Yet it was all fiction. Every bit and still felt so real to me.
I have read other books about the Conclave so I had the basics down but Harris made it sing in a way that other books haven't. The grind, the boredom, the endless task of following tradition all lead to a moment when the members hope God speaks to them and gives them insight all come to life under Harris's skilled writing. I would rather poke my eyes out than sit there for endless hours without being able to read which probably explains why I am not a Cardinal, that and I am not Catholic, male or speak Latin.
The only slightly jarring note to me was the ending. I felt it was just little too pat, a little too politically correct and a little patronizing. The selected Pope had secrets too but why his was OK and others weren't was a puzzle of sorts to me. Still it was kind of fantastic in it's own way. It certainly caught me off guard. I certainly had something else in mind.
I think this is an excellent read and highly recommend it.
January 2, 2020
The pope is dead. One hundred and eighteen cardinals have gathered in Rome to announce his successor. They are men of God, but they are still men. And whether their heads, their hearts, or their ambition will guide them to a decision will soon be seen.
Despite being an atheist, I find religion an awe-inspiring construct. God hasn't found his way into my heart but I do feel... maybe a pang of loss, when confronted with someone who has a great being or some far-reaching plan in which to trust in. The men that litter this text are some of the most faithful and it was an interesting insight to how their religion was their life work and also the saviour of it.
Confronting the sanctity of religion was extremely interesting, but could also read a little drily on times. It was the ignorance of the reader rather than the fault of the book, but I initially struggled to understand all the terms, places, and activities that were littered throughout. The book did its best to make the reader aware of what was going on, but even then it read a little like non-fiction when too much information was provided. Basically, and gain I iterate, no fault of the book but I struggled with the first third. My interest in the process of anointing the next pope was heightened enough that I thankfully persevered.
When all the characters were introduced and the actual process was underway, the religious aspirations of many of the cardinals become more apparent and my intrigue was further piqued. From this point I raced through the remainder of the book, fully invested in interest and emotion.
It made for entirely engrossing reading seeing how the traditions of the church and modern-day life intersected, and also the many long-established customs that were repeated as the new pope's election was underway. What fuelled my intrigue most, however, was the inner-monologue of our perspective into the sanctity of this world, Dean Lomeli.
He acts as more of a manager to the cardinals around him, quietening arguments, restoring order, and finding the truths that many of the gathered men are trying so hard to hide. Here is where the mysteries in the text lie, when much of the earlier half read more like a manual on how a new pope's election was constructed.
He also has many concerns over how the new pope should fulfil his role. He worries that those with aspirations for the seat are unworthy. He worries more that the church will fall out of favour with the modern world surrounding it, if those with more traditional notions were to take charge.
The end twist was worth five stars alone. I loved the unforeseen and forward-thinking direction it took and I was grinning with glee at the cleverly-placed clues I had continuously overlooked throughout. Whilst the book feels very much like two separate halves, together they make an interesting and entertaining read that left me with knowledge gained, mysteries solved, and a journey very much enjoyed.
Despite being an atheist, I find religion an awe-inspiring construct. God hasn't found his way into my heart but I do feel... maybe a pang of loss, when confronted with someone who has a great being or some far-reaching plan in which to trust in. The men that litter this text are some of the most faithful and it was an interesting insight to how their religion was their life work and also the saviour of it.
Confronting the sanctity of religion was extremely interesting, but could also read a little drily on times. It was the ignorance of the reader rather than the fault of the book, but I initially struggled to understand all the terms, places, and activities that were littered throughout. The book did its best to make the reader aware of what was going on, but even then it read a little like non-fiction when too much information was provided. Basically, and gain I iterate, no fault of the book but I struggled with the first third. My interest in the process of anointing the next pope was heightened enough that I thankfully persevered.
When all the characters were introduced and the actual process was underway, the religious aspirations of many of the cardinals become more apparent and my intrigue was further piqued. From this point I raced through the remainder of the book, fully invested in interest and emotion.
It made for entirely engrossing reading seeing how the traditions of the church and modern-day life intersected, and also the many long-established customs that were repeated as the new pope's election was underway. What fuelled my intrigue most, however, was the inner-monologue of our perspective into the sanctity of this world, Dean Lomeli.
He acts as more of a manager to the cardinals around him, quietening arguments, restoring order, and finding the truths that many of the gathered men are trying so hard to hide. Here is where the mysteries in the text lie, when much of the earlier half read more like a manual on how a new pope's election was constructed.
He also has many concerns over how the new pope should fulfil his role. He worries that those with aspirations for the seat are unworthy. He worries more that the church will fall out of favour with the modern world surrounding it, if those with more traditional notions were to take charge.
The end twist was worth five stars alone. I loved the unforeseen and forward-thinking direction it took and I was grinning with glee at the cleverly-placed clues I had continuously overlooked throughout. Whilst the book feels very much like two separate halves, together they make an interesting and entertaining read that left me with knowledge gained, mysteries solved, and a journey very much enjoyed.
January 11, 2020
A Papal Thriller:
The process involved in the election of a Pope is something I have given little or no thought to in the past which is why I found this book extremely interesting.
The author takes us carefully, with captivating writing, through the rites and rituals of a “Conclave” which turns out to be way more involved that I had ever imagined, that is, if I had ever given it a thought before.
While this book has nothing whatsoever to do with murder and police procedure it is as much of a suspense thriller as I have ever read. It is a page turner of epic proportions.
But it is the kind of book one must approach with an open mind, any pre conceived notions will spoil it for you. If you are a fervently religious Roman Catholic you could very well be appalled, but I would urge you to read it all the same simply because:
“Out of the crooked timber of humanity, no straight thing was ever made…” (Pg. 235)
The process involved in the election of a Pope is something I have given little or no thought to in the past which is why I found this book extremely interesting.
The author takes us carefully, with captivating writing, through the rites and rituals of a “Conclave” which turns out to be way more involved that I had ever imagined, that is, if I had ever given it a thought before.
While this book has nothing whatsoever to do with murder and police procedure it is as much of a suspense thriller as I have ever read. It is a page turner of epic proportions.
But it is the kind of book one must approach with an open mind, any pre conceived notions will spoil it for you. If you are a fervently religious Roman Catholic you could very well be appalled, but I would urge you to read it all the same simply because:
“Out of the crooked timber of humanity, no straight thing was ever made…” (Pg. 235)
February 4, 2017
Up and till the second last chapter, this book was 5 stars in my head! I thought maybe 4 stars in the second last chapter when it appeared to be a totally predictable outcome. But then came the last several few pages and all I could think , "have you lost you mind Robert Harris or were you just desperate to finish the book and that was the best you could come up with?" This book is like an amazing and fabulous painting framed in a cheap and ugly frame.
April 19, 2021
For English version please scroll down
*******
Ein Vatikanthriller, der sich ungemein positiv von den typischen Vertretern des Genres abhebt.
Es gibt hier keinen wissenschaftlich geschulten und körperlich gestählten Helden, der in Begleitung einer schönen Frau um die Welt reist, um mysteriöse Dokumente oder mystische Artefakte zu finden.
Es gibt auch nicht den Antagonisten, der in der Regel ein großer, dunkler und entweder besonders gut aussehender oder besonders hässlicher Schurke ist, dessen Motive immer vom Bösen in irgendeiner Form geprägt sind.
Es mangelt auch an allerlei haarsträubenden Verschwörungstheorien, die zwar unterhaltsam aber vollkommen unglaubwürdig sind.
Stattdessen leisten wir 118 alten Männern dabei Gesellschaft, wie sie einen der ihren zum Anführer wählen.
Ich war vollkommen von den Socken, wie aufregend das sein konnte. Was politische Intrigen betrifft kann jeder hartgesottene Politiker noch was lernen. Aber man wird ja wohl auch nicht Kardinal, weil man ein netter und harmloser Mensch ist.
Das Ende ist zugegebenermaßen nicht nur völlig unerwartet (ich war nicht in der Lage die Zeichen, die darauf hindeuteten, richtig zu interpretieren), sondern auch ein wenig fragwürdig. Dennoch war das eine großartige Idee.
Einer toller Vatikan-Thriller und 5 Sterne von mir.
--------------------------
A Vatican thriller that stands out positively from the typical representatives of the genre.
There is no scientifically trained and physically hardened hero who travels the world in the company of a beautiful woman to find mysterious documents or mystical artifacts.
There is also no antagonist, who is usually a tall, dark and either particularly good-looking or particularly ugly villain, whose motives are always shaped by evil in some form.
There is also a lack of all kinds of hair-raising conspiracy theories that are entertaining but completely implausible.
Instead, we keep 118 old men company as they choose one of their own to be their leader.
I was completely blown away by how exciting that could be. When it comes to political intrigue, every die-hard politician can learn something. But of course you don't become a cardinal because you are a nice and harmless person.
The ending is admittedly not only completely unexpected (I was unable to correctly interpret the signs that indicated it), but also a little questionable. Still, it was a great idea.
An awesome Vatican thriller and 5 stars from me.
*******
Ein Vatikanthriller, der sich ungemein positiv von den typischen Vertretern des Genres abhebt.
Es gibt hier keinen wissenschaftlich geschulten und körperlich gestählten Helden, der in Begleitung einer schönen Frau um die Welt reist, um mysteriöse Dokumente oder mystische Artefakte zu finden.
Es gibt auch nicht den Antagonisten, der in der Regel ein großer, dunkler und entweder besonders gut aussehender oder besonders hässlicher Schurke ist, dessen Motive immer vom Bösen in irgendeiner Form geprägt sind.
Es mangelt auch an allerlei haarsträubenden Verschwörungstheorien, die zwar unterhaltsam aber vollkommen unglaubwürdig sind.
Stattdessen leisten wir 118 alten Männern dabei Gesellschaft, wie sie einen der ihren zum Anführer wählen.
Ich war vollkommen von den Socken, wie aufregend das sein konnte. Was politische Intrigen betrifft kann jeder hartgesottene Politiker noch was lernen. Aber man wird ja wohl auch nicht Kardinal, weil man ein netter und harmloser Mensch ist.
Das Ende ist zugegebenermaßen nicht nur völlig unerwartet (ich war nicht in der Lage die Zeichen, die darauf hindeuteten, richtig zu interpretieren), sondern auch ein wenig fragwürdig. Dennoch war das eine großartige Idee.
Einer toller Vatikan-Thriller und 5 Sterne von mir.
--------------------------
A Vatican thriller that stands out positively from the typical representatives of the genre.
There is no scientifically trained and physically hardened hero who travels the world in the company of a beautiful woman to find mysterious documents or mystical artifacts.
There is also no antagonist, who is usually a tall, dark and either particularly good-looking or particularly ugly villain, whose motives are always shaped by evil in some form.
There is also a lack of all kinds of hair-raising conspiracy theories that are entertaining but completely implausible.
Instead, we keep 118 old men company as they choose one of their own to be their leader.
I was completely blown away by how exciting that could be. When it comes to political intrigue, every die-hard politician can learn something. But of course you don't become a cardinal because you are a nice and harmless person.
The ending is admittedly not only completely unexpected (I was unable to correctly interpret the signs that indicated it), but also a little questionable. Still, it was a great idea.
An awesome Vatican thriller and 5 stars from me.
December 11, 2017
4.5 stars
In my twenties I read every Andrew Greeley novel I could lay my hands on; and now listening to Conclave reminded me a lot of Greeley since he wrote so prolifically about Cardinals, Popes, celibacy, politics, etc. Men of God, be they priests, Monsignors, Cardinals, or the Pope himself are, after all, men and by nature, not without sin. In Conclave, as the name implies, 118 Cardinals have gathered to elect a new Pope. One by one, their sins are disclosed and the contender list shrinks. Can anyone be found who is pure, worthy, capable, and qualified for the calling?
The dear departed Pope sounded as if modeled after our current liberal-leaner, Frances, but probably more of a schemer--who knows. It seemed as if this conclave was taking place somewhere in the not too distant future. Harris' view of the future might not be as we would imagine. Or maybe so. I figured out the new Pope's identity almost immediately, but that was about it. The ending was just great--it made me whoop out loud. I highly recommend this, whether you're Catholic or not (I'm not and I still loved it).
In my twenties I read every Andrew Greeley novel I could lay my hands on; and now listening to Conclave reminded me a lot of Greeley since he wrote so prolifically about Cardinals, Popes, celibacy, politics, etc. Men of God, be they priests, Monsignors, Cardinals, or the Pope himself are, after all, men and by nature, not without sin. In Conclave, as the name implies, 118 Cardinals have gathered to elect a new Pope. One by one, their sins are disclosed and the contender list shrinks. Can anyone be found who is pure, worthy, capable, and qualified for the calling?
The dear departed Pope sounded as if modeled after our current liberal-leaner, Frances, but probably more of a schemer--who knows. It seemed as if this conclave was taking place somewhere in the not too distant future. Harris' view of the future might not be as we would imagine. Or maybe so. I figured out the new Pope's identity almost immediately, but that was about it. The ending was just great--it made me whoop out loud. I highly recommend this, whether you're Catholic or not (I'm not and I still loved it).
March 13, 2017
It seems Robert Harris can make pretty much anything into a deeply intriguing political drama with the addictive qualities of a soap. In this case, it's the election of a new pope; the sympathetic Cardinal Lomeli is our protagonist, observing the the power play as potential candidates come to the fore, have their hopes dashed, and/or are scuppered by scandal. Like the author's Cicero novels, Conclave takes a world that seems distant and rarefied to most and aligns it with the sort of rivalry and backstabbing we're all familiar with. I could have done without the silly final twist, but on the whole this is a thoroughly entertaining book (and if nothing else, you will likely come out of it with a better understanding of how popes are chosen).
TinyLetter | Twitter | Instagram | Tumblr
TinyLetter | Twitter | Instagram | Tumblr
November 4, 2024
“And, as with sleep, the more one desired meaningful prayer, the more elusive it became.”
I was reading an article about books turned into movies, especially those that are coming out now, that got me interested in reading this book. The movie of the same name was just released this week…October 24, 2024.
What I have since learned is that this author has had several of his books adapted to film. So, I am now somewhat curious about his other books, too.
This book imagines the secret process involved in selecting a new Pope after the last Pope died. The book, and conclave (gathering of/private meeting – Hence: the title of the book), takes place over a 72-hour period. It gives readers insights into the various characters involved in the process/vote that are being considered for this prestigious position.
The story is led by our main character, Cardinal Lomeli, the dean of the College of Cardinals who administers the vote. He is also considered for this esteemed position, along with 3 other contenders. What kind of negotiation will go on? Who really is worthy of the position?
But to complicate matters, one of the considered ones was secretly being investigated by the previous Pope. Why? Cardinal Lomeli begins to quietly investigate, too. What will he discover – and could it affect the outcome of the vote?
Harris does an amazing job of providing procedural and historical detail to the process of selection which adds to the tension experienced as readers turn pages.
But what of the end? How will readers feel when they get there? As smart and as gripping as this read was, this ending felt stilted. Other than that, it truly was an unputdownable read.
4.5 stars rounded down because of ending.
I was reading an article about books turned into movies, especially those that are coming out now, that got me interested in reading this book. The movie of the same name was just released this week…October 24, 2024.
What I have since learned is that this author has had several of his books adapted to film. So, I am now somewhat curious about his other books, too.
This book imagines the secret process involved in selecting a new Pope after the last Pope died. The book, and conclave (gathering of/private meeting – Hence: the title of the book), takes place over a 72-hour period. It gives readers insights into the various characters involved in the process/vote that are being considered for this prestigious position.
The story is led by our main character, Cardinal Lomeli, the dean of the College of Cardinals who administers the vote. He is also considered for this esteemed position, along with 3 other contenders. What kind of negotiation will go on? Who really is worthy of the position?
But to complicate matters, one of the considered ones was secretly being investigated by the previous Pope. Why? Cardinal Lomeli begins to quietly investigate, too. What will he discover – and could it affect the outcome of the vote?
Harris does an amazing job of providing procedural and historical detail to the process of selection which adds to the tension experienced as readers turn pages.
But what of the end? How will readers feel when they get there? As smart and as gripping as this read was, this ending felt stilted. Other than that, it truly was an unputdownable read.
4.5 stars rounded down because of ending.
February 21, 2023
Cardinal Mandorff had “made his reputation at the University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt with a treatise on the origins and theological foundations of clerical celibacy.”
I wonder if he ever thought to revisit his writing and add a post-script on the irony and hypocrisy of that position. But I already digress.
CONCLAVE is a compelling behind the scenes narrative of a hypothetical 2022 election for a new Roman Catholic pontiff from the perspective of Jacopo Lomeli, the dean of the College of Cardinals and the man responsible for presiding over the conclave, a man who is going to attract votes in spite of his adamant insistence that he has neither the strength or the ability to be a pope. Other possible contenders cover a wide variety of nationalities, languages and theological stances. There is Tedesco the traditionalist who would return Latin to the liturgy and once again turn the priests’ backs on the congregations during the celebration of the Mass. Tremblay, the Archbishop Emeritus of Quebec, is the ambitious, progressive Canadian who has the "advantage of seeming to be an American without the disadvantage of actually being one" and is "a French-speaker who was not a Frenchman". Adeyemi the African with strong views on the role of women and gay marriage, a man who believes that “homosexuals should be sent to prison in this world and to hell in the next” may well enter the history books as the first black pope and the first from the dark continent. There is also Vincent Benítez, a late comer to the conclave by virtue of his recent promotion to the rank of Cardinal in pectore - an appointment made in secret because to do otherwise would almost certainly put his life as Archbishop of the diocese of Baghdad in grave danger from Muslim activists.
Despite the simplicity of its premise, CONCLAVE is an exciting, gripping page-turner that will fly by in short order. Its genre is somewhat difficult to pin down. Perhaps it’s a thriller or it might be considered an alternate history. But my money makes it both of these with distinct overtones of political satire and commentary directed firmly against religion in general and, more particularly, of course, against Roman Catholicism and its bleak history of misogyny, xenophobia, homophobia, anti-Semitism, greed, its attachment to the notions of patriarchal power retention, and (what else?) its complete failure to address the issues of the clergy’s sexual abuse around the world.
Then there is that out-of-left-field twist in the ending! Many other reviewers considered it bizarre and a weakness that would lower the quality of an otherwise strong novel. For me, I thought of it as a rather outré and admittedly unlikely possibility but nonetheless entirely legitimate eyebrow raising ending. I also, to be honest, saw it as a very long and very sharp stick that Harris was using to poke in the eye of the Roman Catholic establishment. It convinced me completely that CONCLAVE was Harris’ way of telling the Roman Catholic Church to grow up and, if they were going to insist on continuing to exist as a global force in the world, to enter the 21st century and deal with its realities.
Definitely recommended.
Paul Weiss
I wonder if he ever thought to revisit his writing and add a post-script on the irony and hypocrisy of that position. But I already digress.
CONCLAVE is a compelling behind the scenes narrative of a hypothetical 2022 election for a new Roman Catholic pontiff from the perspective of Jacopo Lomeli, the dean of the College of Cardinals and the man responsible for presiding over the conclave, a man who is going to attract votes in spite of his adamant insistence that he has neither the strength or the ability to be a pope. Other possible contenders cover a wide variety of nationalities, languages and theological stances. There is Tedesco the traditionalist who would return Latin to the liturgy and once again turn the priests’ backs on the congregations during the celebration of the Mass. Tremblay, the Archbishop Emeritus of Quebec, is the ambitious, progressive Canadian who has the "advantage of seeming to be an American without the disadvantage of actually being one" and is "a French-speaker who was not a Frenchman". Adeyemi the African with strong views on the role of women and gay marriage, a man who believes that “homosexuals should be sent to prison in this world and to hell in the next” may well enter the history books as the first black pope and the first from the dark continent. There is also Vincent Benítez, a late comer to the conclave by virtue of his recent promotion to the rank of Cardinal in pectore - an appointment made in secret because to do otherwise would almost certainly put his life as Archbishop of the diocese of Baghdad in grave danger from Muslim activists.
Despite the simplicity of its premise, CONCLAVE is an exciting, gripping page-turner that will fly by in short order. Its genre is somewhat difficult to pin down. Perhaps it’s a thriller or it might be considered an alternate history. But my money makes it both of these with distinct overtones of political satire and commentary directed firmly against religion in general and, more particularly, of course, against Roman Catholicism and its bleak history of misogyny, xenophobia, homophobia, anti-Semitism, greed, its attachment to the notions of patriarchal power retention, and (what else?) its complete failure to address the issues of the clergy’s sexual abuse around the world.
Then there is that out-of-left-field twist in the ending! Many other reviewers considered it bizarre and a weakness that would lower the quality of an otherwise strong novel. For me, I thought of it as a rather outré and admittedly unlikely possibility but nonetheless entirely legitimate eyebrow raising ending. I also, to be honest, saw it as a very long and very sharp stick that Harris was using to poke in the eye of the Roman Catholic establishment. It convinced me completely that CONCLAVE was Harris’ way of telling the Roman Catholic Church to grow up and, if they were going to insist on continuing to exist as a global force in the world, to enter the 21st century and deal with its realities.
Definitely recommended.
Paul Weiss
October 10, 2016
My first Harris book. *sighs*
Very well written, well researched and interesting to a point, but it fell flat quickly. I guessed the ending about half way through and I can't really see the point of the book. If the ending was the beginning and how the world reacted to it - then possibly, it would have been a more thorough and engaging book.
Very well written, well researched and interesting to a point, but it fell flat quickly. I guessed the ending about half way through and I can't really see the point of the book. If the ending was the beginning and how the world reacted to it - then possibly, it would have been a more thorough and engaging book.
September 28, 2017
This is an intelligent, compelling, unpredictable and absorbing thriller of the best kind.
Whilst the subject matter – Conclave (an assembly of cardinals for the election of a pope) is something I knew very little about (other than the iconic chimneys emitting either black or white smoke!) the general themes concerning political machinations and the struggle for power will be familiar to Robert Harris readers. Clear parallels can be drawn between themes explored in Conclave and those in Harris’ Cicero trilogy – the obvious difference here being the contemporary Vatican setting and the bestowing of religious / quasi-political power – contrasting with the ancient Roman Senate and the goal of political / military / absolute power.
What’s also noticeably different here from Harris’ other studies of the struggle for power are:
Firstly: The cloistered nature and setting of the Conclave – which naturally and greatly adds to the uncontrived tension and claustrophobia of the novel (a setting which must be a gift to an author such as Harris).
Secondly: By definition the omnipresent religious element underlying the Conclave voting, this at least superficially dominates proceedings and varies by degree of course dependant on the implied motivations of the various characters.
Definitely recommended to any fan of this genre – it’s a great read.
Whilst the subject matter – Conclave (an assembly of cardinals for the election of a pope) is something I knew very little about (other than the iconic chimneys emitting either black or white smoke!) the general themes concerning political machinations and the struggle for power will be familiar to Robert Harris readers. Clear parallels can be drawn between themes explored in Conclave and those in Harris’ Cicero trilogy – the obvious difference here being the contemporary Vatican setting and the bestowing of religious / quasi-political power – contrasting with the ancient Roman Senate and the goal of political / military / absolute power.
What’s also noticeably different here from Harris’ other studies of the struggle for power are:
Firstly: The cloistered nature and setting of the Conclave – which naturally and greatly adds to the uncontrived tension and claustrophobia of the novel (a setting which must be a gift to an author such as Harris).
Secondly: By definition the omnipresent religious element underlying the Conclave voting, this at least superficially dominates proceedings and varies by degree of course dependant on the implied motivations of the various characters.
Definitely recommended to any fan of this genre – it’s a great read.
May 13, 2020
Robert Harris requested permission from the Vatican to visit the actual locations used during a Conclave that are permanently closed to the public … and his request was granted. His official visit was arranged by the ominous sounding Office for the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff. “I hope they are not too appalled by the result,” Harris drily notes in his Acknowledgements.
Of course, even before one begins a book called Conclave the ending is, by default, preordained. And yes, that is ‘Habemus papam’ (‘We have a Pope’). But Harris’s devious imagination adds such a speculative twist to this seemingly innocuous outcome that the reader feels quite wrong-footed by the ending.
In hindsight, that final revelation is telegraphed quite subtly and cleverly at various key points. But it is such an about turn that it might cause many readers to reject the book in its entirety, I think. Which is a great pity, for it is a solid read.
Always a stickler for research, Harris is spot on here, right down to the food prepared by the poor unseen nuns to the artwork on the walls. The pomp and circumstance of the Conclave is always fascinating and never becomes rote and dull, which is quite a feat of imaginative writing, given the liturgical excesses of the Catholic Church.
What puzzled me from the outset was how conventional the book seemed, but of course Harris is a master in subverting (torpedoing?) his own texts in a couple of devastating pages. I for one liked the ending, but agree with some of the reviewers that the real story is probably what happens after. This is one literary instance where a sequel could deliver a truly surprising result.
Of course, even before one begins a book called Conclave the ending is, by default, preordained. And yes, that is ‘Habemus papam’ (‘We have a Pope’). But Harris’s devious imagination adds such a speculative twist to this seemingly innocuous outcome that the reader feels quite wrong-footed by the ending.
In hindsight, that final revelation is telegraphed quite subtly and cleverly at various key points. But it is such an about turn that it might cause many readers to reject the book in its entirety, I think. Which is a great pity, for it is a solid read.
Always a stickler for research, Harris is spot on here, right down to the food prepared by the poor unseen nuns to the artwork on the walls. The pomp and circumstance of the Conclave is always fascinating and never becomes rote and dull, which is quite a feat of imaginative writing, given the liturgical excesses of the Catholic Church.
What puzzled me from the outset was how conventional the book seemed, but of course Harris is a master in subverting (torpedoing?) his own texts in a couple of devastating pages. I for one liked the ending, but agree with some of the reviewers that the real story is probably what happens after. This is one literary instance where a sequel could deliver a truly surprising result.
July 9, 2020
"حالا باید از پروردگار خود بخواهیم به واسطهی انزوای روحانی پدران کاردینال، برای ما پدر مقدس جدیدی بفرستد. و در این ساعت باید اول از همه ایمان را به یاد آوریم و وعدهی عیسی مسیح را وقتی به کسی که برگزید فرمود: "تو پطرس هستی و کلیسای خویش را بر این سنگ بنا خواهم کرد و دروازههای منزلگه مردگان برابر آن قد نخواهند افراشت. کلیدهای ملکوت آسمانها را بر تو خواهم داد."
"تا همین امروز هم نماد قدرت پاپ همچنان یک جفت کلید است. اما این کلیدها را به چه کسی باید سپرد؟ این، جدیترین و مقدسترین مسئولیتی است که در سراسر حیاتمان بر ما عرضه میشود و باید به درگاه خداوند دعا کنیم آن نصرت مطلوب خود را که همواره برای کلیسای مقدسش ذخیره دارد عطا کند و بخواهیم از او که ما را به مسیر انتخاب صحیح هدایت فرماید.""
داستان مجمع سری با مرگ پاپ آغاز میشه و خواننده رو به پشتدرهای بسته برای انتخاب پاپ بعدی میبرد.
اوایل کتاب بهدلیل پرداختن به جزئیات ریتم کُندی برای من داشت، اما با آغاز روز اول رایگیری کتاب از نظر من جذاب شد، و مدام این بیت تو ذهنم تکرار میشد، شاعر میفرماید:
واعظان کین جلوه در محراب و منبر میکنند
چون به خلوت میروند آن کار دیگر میکنند
کاردینالهای اعظمی که برخلاف آنچه که باید بیخطا و پاک نیستند، و بازیهای سیاسی که برای بهدست گرفتن قدرت اجرا میکنند و...
و اما پایان کتاب!
پایان رو دوست داشتم چون حدس نمیزدم، راز پاپ جدید و سیر انتخاب شدنش برام خیلی جالب بود اما پایان رو دوست هم نداشتم چون خیلی بدجا تموم شد! واقعا دوست داشتم کتاب ادامه پیدا میکرد و راز پاپ رو نه فقط خواننده بلکه عموم هم میفهمیدند و واکنشهای دیگه هم میدیدیم.
×سه و نیم
"تا همین امروز هم نماد قدرت پاپ همچنان یک جفت کلید است. اما این کلیدها را به چه کسی باید سپرد؟ این، جدیترین و مقدسترین مسئولیتی است که در سراسر حیاتمان بر ما عرضه میشود و باید به درگاه خداوند دعا کنیم آن نصرت مطلوب خود را که همواره برای کلیسای مقدسش ذخیره دارد عطا کند و بخواهیم از او که ما را به مسیر انتخاب صحیح هدایت فرماید.""
داستان مجمع سری با مرگ پاپ آغاز میشه و خواننده رو به پشتدرهای بسته برای انتخاب پاپ بعدی میبرد.
اوایل کتاب بهدلیل پرداختن به جزئیات ریتم کُندی برای من داشت، اما با آغاز روز اول رایگیری کتاب از نظر من جذاب شد، و مدام این بیت تو ذهنم تکرار میشد، شاعر میفرماید:
واعظان کین جلوه در محراب و منبر میکنند
چون به خلوت میروند آن کار دیگر میکنند
کاردینالهای اعظمی که برخلاف آنچه که باید بیخطا و پاک نیستند، و بازیهای سیاسی که برای بهدست گرفتن قدرت اجرا میکنند و...
و اما پایان کتاب!
پایان رو دوست داشتم چون حدس نمیزدم، راز پاپ جدید و سیر انتخاب شدنش برام خیلی جالب بود اما پایان رو دوست هم نداشتم چون خیلی بدجا تموم شد! واقعا دوست داشتم کتاب ادامه پیدا میکرد و راز پاپ رو نه فقط خواننده بلکه عموم هم میفهمیدند و واکنشهای دیگه هم میدیدیم.
×سه و نیم
March 14, 2021
Incredible read. Author Robert Harris pens a winner. The story is engaging. The story kept me up half the night.
This review is based on the fact that it is a novel. The reason I stress this is the final chapter's surprise ending.
As a Roman Catholic cleric, I was pulled to the story. The research was impeccable!
It begins with the death of the pope who is a unnamed Then the Vatican political machine goes into full throttle to prepare to select a new pope.
The Dean of the Election of the Pope is Cardinal Lomeni This becomes a Herculean task try to keep everyone on track.
The pace of the story is increases and builds, through twists and turns, to a shocking and even unbelievable climax. The last chapter will leave you with your mouth open, saying "Oh no."
Being aware of the controversies surrounding this book, I approached this review as a novel.
I recommend it highly because, it is, in fact, fiction.
This review is based on the fact that it is a novel. The reason I stress this is the final chapter's surprise ending.
As a Roman Catholic cleric, I was pulled to the story. The research was impeccable!
It begins with the death of the pope who is a unnamed Then the Vatican political machine goes into full throttle to prepare to select a new pope.
The Dean of the Election of the Pope is Cardinal Lomeni This becomes a Herculean task try to keep everyone on track.
The pace of the story is increases and builds, through twists and turns, to a shocking and even unbelievable climax. The last chapter will leave you with your mouth open, saying "Oh no."
Being aware of the controversies surrounding this book, I approached this review as a novel.
I recommend it highly because, it is, in fact, fiction.
November 12, 2016
Cardinal Lomeli is devasted by the death of the Pope. He never believed or hoped to attend another Conclave, the congregation of cardinal electors to choose the next Pope, as this will be his third. Cardinal Lomeli is the Dean of the College of Cardinals, therefore, he is tasked with the running and management of the Conclave. With 117 (?) Cardinal electors, emotions run high as support is given to individuals and taken away as secrets are discovered. Will politics or the Holy Spirit guide this election?
First, I must say that I am not Catholic, so a lot of this information was new to me. At first I found some of it confusing, but after awhile, it became clearer as the author explained people's roles more in depth. I don't know if I would call this a thriller, which I see many people have done. I guess I would call it an intrigue because the reader and the protagonist, Lomeli, have the same information. I also suppose I feel a thriller should be more suspenseful or dangerous. This one was more of a religious/political intrigue, more twists, but no danger.
I really enjoyed all of the research the author put into the happenings of a Conclave. The actual ceremonies and rituals, as well as the feelings of boredom and waiting. It made the characters much more real. It also surprised me by how political it all was. It shouldn't have, but it did. Although they are spiritual leaders, they are just humans. Some of the things just seemed so below them. There were also many secrets that came out that didn't so much shock me, as repelled me. It was like any other election, mud-slinging, campaigning, compromising, etc. I did not see the major twist at the end and I did find it pretty far fetched. This Conclave happens at or after the year 2018, I cannot remember exactly, but the end was still unbelievable.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes books that are information and character driven as opposed to action driven. I throughly enjoyed it!
*I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and have given an honest review *
First, I must say that I am not Catholic, so a lot of this information was new to me. At first I found some of it confusing, but after awhile, it became clearer as the author explained people's roles more in depth. I don't know if I would call this a thriller, which I see many people have done. I guess I would call it an intrigue because the reader and the protagonist, Lomeli, have the same information. I also suppose I feel a thriller should be more suspenseful or dangerous. This one was more of a religious/political intrigue, more twists, but no danger.
I really enjoyed all of the research the author put into the happenings of a Conclave. The actual ceremonies and rituals, as well as the feelings of boredom and waiting. It made the characters much more real. It also surprised me by how political it all was. It shouldn't have, but it did. Although they are spiritual leaders, they are just humans. Some of the things just seemed so below them. There were also many secrets that came out that didn't so much shock me, as repelled me. It was like any other election, mud-slinging, campaigning, compromising, etc. I did not see the major twist at the end and I did find it pretty far fetched. This Conclave happens at or after the year 2018, I cannot remember exactly, but the end was still unbelievable.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes books that are information and character driven as opposed to action driven. I throughly enjoyed it!
*I voluntarily read an Advance Reader Copy of this book and have given an honest review *
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