Conclave [Paperback] Harris, Robert Harris, Robert Harris, Robert Harris, Robert Paperback – 7 November 2024

*Conclave* by Robert Harris is a taut and captivating political thriller set in the fascinating, insular world of the Vatican. The novel revolves around the selection of a new pope following the death of the incumbent, with the process of the papal conclave serving as the backdrop for intrigue, power struggles, and hidden agendas.Harris meticulously captures the rituals and solemnity of the Catholic Church, while also exploring the human emotions and ambitions of the cardinals who are locked in a secretive battle to determine the next leader of the faith. His prose is sharp and efficient, drawing readers into the drama and tension that build steadily throughout the novel.What makes *Conclave* particularly gripping is its atmosphere of secrecy and the moral dilemmas faced by the central characters. Cardinal Lomeli, the protagonist, is a sympathetic and deeply human figure struggling with his own crises of faith while navigating the political machinations surrounding him. Harris keeps the suspense high by gradually unveiling secrets about the contenders, revealing the personal stakes that each brings to the election.The novel’s pacing is steady, with occasional twists that challenge both the reader’s assumptions and the characters’ motivations. The final revelation is particularly striking, adding a bold and unexpected layer to the narrative.While the book delves deeply into the world of the Catholic Church, it remains accessible to those without prior knowledge of Vatican politics. Harris balances theological insight with the thriller elements, making *Conclave* a compelling read for both mystery lovers and those intrigued by the intersection of faith and power.Overall, *Conclave* is a finely crafted, thought-provoking thriller that offers a unique glimpse into one of the world’s most secretive institutions. Its blend of suspense, moral complexity, and character-driven drama makes it a standout in the genre.

A good read . The climax was a turn. The usual Robert Harris excepting a bit elaborate on the subject at times a bit drag.

Harris has penned another great thriller. The book keeps you on edge all through and the climax stands true each turn of the plot

Great book

Initially I thought that this book would be informative about the papal election but it is not. Though a very top notch thriller where the plot is quite engaging albeit lack of details on historical aspect of the papal election.Decent, light reading book. The writing is pretty average. Marvellous that author can spin such an intersting yarn with restrictive time frame.Since it was my first Book of Robert Harris maybe was expecting a bit more ( heard that he writes historical thrillers) , this book is indeed a good thriller but lacks historical details.

Good story , highly recommended

Excellent book

Nowhere near as good as other Robert Harris' books. There's no intrigue, no plot apart from a very detailed, repetitive & overall boring description of the Pope election procedure. I couldn't finish it & that doesn't happen often. I have read all books but one by this author & this one is the weakest.