“An extraordinary accomplishment: Controversial but crucial for debate in today’s Catholic Church.”

— Kirkus Reviews (Starred review)

“Endlessly fascinating, insightful and brilliantly told.”

— Booklist (Starred review)

“A richly detailed portrait of a complex, hierarchical, and secretive institution as it grappled with a modernizing world. ”

— Publishers Weekly

“Insightful …. Beginning with the reign of Pope Pius XII and the aftermath of World War II, the book explores the personalities, politics, and conflicts that marked each pope’s reign.”

— Library Journal (Starred review)

“Gripping …. a sweeping chronicle of the seven popes since the Second World War, starting with Pius XII and ending with Francis. It’s rich in narrative detail and will engross both neophytes and cognoscenti.”

— Literary Review