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Something Wicked
Sister Maureen O'Connor is a progressive American nun, who believes women should be equal with men in the Roman Catholic Church. At a conference in Jerusalem, Sister Maureen makes her case before a group of nuns-until a bomb explodes in the Pontifical Biblical Institute during her speech and kills Sister Maureen and twelve other nuns.
Who would want to kill Sister Maureen? And why?
This is the question pursued by Sister Marie Therese De Bruyne, the 29-year-old executive director of the Donne del Vaticano, or "women in the Vatican", a group established by Pope Francis to advance the role of women in the Catholic Church. She is helped on her quest to solve the murder by Father Dan Lanaham, a 75-year-old Jesuit who has just been elected superior general of his order, and Jacqueline Brussard, a former student of Dan's who is now a reporter for the Washington Post.
When a terrorist group is blamed for the bombing, a terrorist mysteriously appears with answers. Khalil Khoury is a one-time friend of Dan, and brother of Dan's secret lover, Layla. But that was 40 years ago, and Khalil is here now to point out the bombers' path doesn't lead to the terrorist group but to the Vatican.
Something Wicked is a fast-paced page turner of a thriller, written by a Vatican insider, Monsignor Jack Myslinski, and a Vatican media veteran, Michael McKinley. They take the reader on a thrilling and dangerous journey into some of the Catholic Church's darkest places, and also shine the brightest of lights on the good people within. The result creates a complex and compelling drama that will entertain a broad range of readers, as the crime is as unique as the characters who must solve it.
Who would want to kill Sister Maureen? And why?
This is the question pursued by Sister Marie Therese De Bruyne, the 29-year-old executive director of the Donne del Vaticano, or "women in the Vatican", a group established by Pope Francis to advance the role of women in the Catholic Church. She is helped on her quest to solve the murder by Father Dan Lanaham, a 75-year-old Jesuit who has just been elected superior general of his order, and Jacqueline Brussard, a former student of Dan's who is now a reporter for the Washington Post.
When a terrorist group is blamed for the bombing, a terrorist mysteriously appears with answers. Khalil Khoury is a one-time friend of Dan, and brother of Dan's secret lover, Layla. But that was 40 years ago, and Khalil is here now to point out the bombers' path doesn't lead to the terrorist group but to the Vatican.
Something Wicked is a fast-paced page turner of a thriller, written by a Vatican insider, Monsignor Jack Myslinski, and a Vatican media veteran, Michael McKinley. They take the reader on a thrilling and dangerous journey into some of the Catholic Church's darkest places, and also shine the brightest of lights on the good people within. The result creates a complex and compelling drama that will entertain a broad range of readers, as the crime is as unique as the characters who must solve it.
312 pages, Hardcover
First published February 10, 2025
3 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 17, 2025
A fast-paced thriller with a bonus of interesting information about Christianity and the Catholic Church
When a bomb explodes and kills thirteen nuns at a conference of Catholic women seeking more equality within the Church, Father Dan Lanaham, who is in Jerusalem to help his fellow Jesuits elect a new leader, takes action to try to solve this horrendous crime. He is joined by Sister Marie Therese DeBruyne, who missed being a victim of the bomb herself only because of a last-minute summons to a meeting with Cardinal Wolfram Friedrich. Because of the nature of the crime and the victims, criminal justice authorities from several countries also become involved.
As the investigation proceeds, the case becomes more and more complex, involving not just political infighting and possible financial wrongdoing inside the Catholic Church but other groups like the Mafia. There is plenty of action; the term “thriller� is very appropriate for Something Wicked.
The people involved are not overlooked, though. We see Dan’s internal struggles with many aspects of what he is exploring. There are also some complicated relationships, including sexual relationships involving ordained priests.
I could say more about the book but do not want to spoil a very intriguing story.
The story itself was worth reading, but I may have enjoyed the information about Christianity and the workings of the Catholic Church just as much. For example, the Gospel of Luke has more stories about women then any other synoptic Gospel, and there are twenty-three stories in Luke’s first letter to Theophilus that are not even mentioned in any other Gospel. There is also fascinating information about a real-life global criminal conglomerate involving the Mafia and the Vatican Bank.
As the book ends, some questions have been answered, but evil still lurks, even within the Vatican. It makes me wonder if we might be hearing more from Father Dan. If so, I will go along for the exciting ride.
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Pierian Press.
When a bomb explodes and kills thirteen nuns at a conference of Catholic women seeking more equality within the Church, Father Dan Lanaham, who is in Jerusalem to help his fellow Jesuits elect a new leader, takes action to try to solve this horrendous crime. He is joined by Sister Marie Therese DeBruyne, who missed being a victim of the bomb herself only because of a last-minute summons to a meeting with Cardinal Wolfram Friedrich. Because of the nature of the crime and the victims, criminal justice authorities from several countries also become involved.
As the investigation proceeds, the case becomes more and more complex, involving not just political infighting and possible financial wrongdoing inside the Catholic Church but other groups like the Mafia. There is plenty of action; the term “thriller� is very appropriate for Something Wicked.
The people involved are not overlooked, though. We see Dan’s internal struggles with many aspects of what he is exploring. There are also some complicated relationships, including sexual relationships involving ordained priests.
I could say more about the book but do not want to spoil a very intriguing story.
The story itself was worth reading, but I may have enjoyed the information about Christianity and the workings of the Catholic Church just as much. For example, the Gospel of Luke has more stories about women then any other synoptic Gospel, and there are twenty-three stories in Luke’s first letter to Theophilus that are not even mentioned in any other Gospel. There is also fascinating information about a real-life global criminal conglomerate involving the Mafia and the Vatican Bank.
As the book ends, some questions have been answered, but evil still lurks, even within the Vatican. It makes me wonder if we might be hearing more from Father Dan. If so, I will go along for the exciting ride.
I received an advance review copy of this book from Edelweiss and Pierian Press.
February 4, 2025
Sister Maureen O'Connor is a progressive American nun working to make women equal to men in the Roman Catholic Church. At a conference in Jerusalem, a bomb kills Sister Maureen and twelve other nuns. Sister Marie Therese De Bruyne, Father Dan Lanaham, and Jacqueline Brussard investigate the bombing. A terrorist group is blamed, and a terrorist that comes forward with information has surprising ties to Dan forty years ago. He claims that the bombing isn't because of a terrorist group, but the Vatican.
Women have always held a place within the Bible, supporting Jesus within his ministry and were the first to witness his resurrection. Despite that, they never really held a place of power within the Catholic Church. Sister Marie Therese is part of a task force looking into the role of women within the church, serving as the executive director of the group Donne del Vaticano. Because she was all but threatened to back off by a cardinal, she missed the keynote address that killed Sister Maureen. Father Dan Lanaham is a Jesuit, normally in Jerusalem and avoiding the politicking that other priests and religious leaders engage in. He knows Pope Leo, who had been friends with Sister Maureen. Dan is sent back to Jerusalem to help with the investigation, which at first assumes a terrorist group was at fault. He pulls in his former student Jacqueline Broussard, a journalist, to help get to the truth. Even as they begin to look into Sister Maureen's work outside of campaigning for women's rights, people in Rome are already moving to gain power due to the Pope's failing health.
We're slowly introduced to all of the relationships between the characters, from the religious groups within the church to the Israeli intelligence and police force investigating. Father Dan had once been a teacher in Beirut, making them suspect past ties. We see those past ties in flashback sequences from his time as a teacher, where he begins a surreptitious love affair with Layla. As everyone begins digging, they start to see connections to different groups that are trying to move into the Vatican. It's always about money and power, and Sister Maureen had been poised to interfere with both.
The authors know the ins and outs of the Vatican and law enforcement. John Myslinski was a Jesuit, a capitol police officer, and is a Monsignor. Michael McKinley is an Oxford educated journalist and screenwriter. There are a lot of explanations along the way, since most of us won't know the ins and outs of how Popes are elected, which departments handle what responsibility, and how the succession of Popes are determined. We know what happened by the end, and know that it really isn't the end of the story after all. It drew me in to see the mystery solved. I can only hope that justice will come to the other nefarious players brought up in the book.
Women have always held a place within the Bible, supporting Jesus within his ministry and were the first to witness his resurrection. Despite that, they never really held a place of power within the Catholic Church. Sister Marie Therese is part of a task force looking into the role of women within the church, serving as the executive director of the group Donne del Vaticano. Because she was all but threatened to back off by a cardinal, she missed the keynote address that killed Sister Maureen. Father Dan Lanaham is a Jesuit, normally in Jerusalem and avoiding the politicking that other priests and religious leaders engage in. He knows Pope Leo, who had been friends with Sister Maureen. Dan is sent back to Jerusalem to help with the investigation, which at first assumes a terrorist group was at fault. He pulls in his former student Jacqueline Broussard, a journalist, to help get to the truth. Even as they begin to look into Sister Maureen's work outside of campaigning for women's rights, people in Rome are already moving to gain power due to the Pope's failing health.
We're slowly introduced to all of the relationships between the characters, from the religious groups within the church to the Israeli intelligence and police force investigating. Father Dan had once been a teacher in Beirut, making them suspect past ties. We see those past ties in flashback sequences from his time as a teacher, where he begins a surreptitious love affair with Layla. As everyone begins digging, they start to see connections to different groups that are trying to move into the Vatican. It's always about money and power, and Sister Maureen had been poised to interfere with both.
The authors know the ins and outs of the Vatican and law enforcement. John Myslinski was a Jesuit, a capitol police officer, and is a Monsignor. Michael McKinley is an Oxford educated journalist and screenwriter. There are a lot of explanations along the way, since most of us won't know the ins and outs of how Popes are elected, which departments handle what responsibility, and how the succession of Popes are determined. We know what happened by the end, and know that it really isn't the end of the story after all. It drew me in to see the mystery solved. I can only hope that justice will come to the other nefarious players brought up in the book.
April 2, 2025
Something Wicked" is a really interesting book that dives into some serious topics like faith, power, and the role of women in the Church. The story takes place in Jerusalem and follows Sister Marie Therese De Bruyne, who is a young nun trying to make a difference in the Catholic Church. She feels a mix of guilt and empowerment after participating in a Mass led by Sister Maureen, which is a big deal because women aren't usually allowed to lead Mass. This moment sets the stage for a lot of the struggles and challenges that the characters face throughout the book.
Sister Maureen is an important character. She is older and has a lot of experience. She believes that women should have a bigger role in the Church, and she is working hard to make that happen. Sadly, her life is cut short when a terrible bombing occurs during a conference for women in the Church. This event shakes everyone up, especially Sister Marie Therese, who feels a strong desire for justice and revenge. The book really shows how the characters deal with their emotions and the aftermath of such a tragic event.
There are also other characters like Cardinal Wolfram Friedrich, who is a powerful figure in the Church. He seems to have his own agenda and doesn't really support the idea of women taking charge. Then there's Dan Lanaham, a Jesuit priest who is trying to uncover the truth behind the bombing and the corruption in the Church. He has a complicated past with a character named Khalil, who is involved in some dangerous activities. The interactions between these characters create a lot of tension and drama, making the story even more engaging.
Overall, this book is a thrilling read that mixes mystery, faith, and the fight for justice. The characters are well developed, and their struggles feel real. The book makes you think about important issues while keeping you on the edge of your seat with its twists and turns. If you enjoy stories that explore deep themes and have a bit of action, this book is definitely worth checking out!
Sister Maureen is an important character. She is older and has a lot of experience. She believes that women should have a bigger role in the Church, and she is working hard to make that happen. Sadly, her life is cut short when a terrible bombing occurs during a conference for women in the Church. This event shakes everyone up, especially Sister Marie Therese, who feels a strong desire for justice and revenge. The book really shows how the characters deal with their emotions and the aftermath of such a tragic event.
There are also other characters like Cardinal Wolfram Friedrich, who is a powerful figure in the Church. He seems to have his own agenda and doesn't really support the idea of women taking charge. Then there's Dan Lanaham, a Jesuit priest who is trying to uncover the truth behind the bombing and the corruption in the Church. He has a complicated past with a character named Khalil, who is involved in some dangerous activities. The interactions between these characters create a lot of tension and drama, making the story even more engaging.
Overall, this book is a thrilling read that mixes mystery, faith, and the fight for justice. The characters are well developed, and their struggles feel real. The book makes you think about important issues while keeping you on the edge of your seat with its twists and turns. If you enjoy stories that explore deep themes and have a bit of action, this book is definitely worth checking out!
April 2, 2025
#bookreviewÌý
This book, "Something Wicked" by John F. Myslinski and Michael McKinley is an absorbing saga of ambitious and evocative thriller which will leave you agape with the complexities of it's narrative woven around Catholic Church, gender roles, and political intrigue.
The story is set against backdrop of Jerusalem and Rome. The book entails an absorbing thriller of murder, conspiracy, and institutional resistance to change.
The story circles around a nun and a jesuit priest on one side and domitable adversaries including a staunch traditionalist on the other side who is determined to maintain the Church’s patriarchal structure.Ìý
The book also contains real world religious debates especially regarding the role of women in Catholic leadership which adds a philosophical depth to its suspenseful storytelling.Ìý
The authors have sketched the characters intricately which excites and maintain interests throughout the book. Dan’s uncovering corruption at the highest levels of the Church and Marie Therese’s internal conflict is equally compelling and intriguing.
The story has touches of history and theology elements which makes it an exciting thriller as well as compelling read about religious power dynamics. The storytelling, timelines, and overall plot is intense which can be overwhelming at times for some readers who are looking for an easy read.Ìý
The story raises important questions about faith and justice while delivering a tense and unpredictable story. Overall, this book is compelling read for those who love to read intense thrillers and about history and theology with suspense.Ìý
A Riveting Exploration of Faith, Power, and Corruption. Do grab your copy from Amazon. A must read!
Book : Something WickedÌý
Authors : John F. Myslinski and Michael McKinley
Genre : #thriller #suspense #mystery
Rating : 4.8/5
This book, "Something Wicked" by John F. Myslinski and Michael McKinley is an absorbing saga of ambitious and evocative thriller which will leave you agape with the complexities of it's narrative woven around Catholic Church, gender roles, and political intrigue.
The story is set against backdrop of Jerusalem and Rome. The book entails an absorbing thriller of murder, conspiracy, and institutional resistance to change.
The story circles around a nun and a jesuit priest on one side and domitable adversaries including a staunch traditionalist on the other side who is determined to maintain the Church’s patriarchal structure.Ìý
The book also contains real world religious debates especially regarding the role of women in Catholic leadership which adds a philosophical depth to its suspenseful storytelling.Ìý
The authors have sketched the characters intricately which excites and maintain interests throughout the book. Dan’s uncovering corruption at the highest levels of the Church and Marie Therese’s internal conflict is equally compelling and intriguing.
The story has touches of history and theology elements which makes it an exciting thriller as well as compelling read about religious power dynamics. The storytelling, timelines, and overall plot is intense which can be overwhelming at times for some readers who are looking for an easy read.Ìý
The story raises important questions about faith and justice while delivering a tense and unpredictable story. Overall, this book is compelling read for those who love to read intense thrillers and about history and theology with suspense.Ìý
A Riveting Exploration of Faith, Power, and Corruption. Do grab your copy from Amazon. A must read!
Book : Something WickedÌý
Authors : John F. Myslinski and Michael McKinley
Genre : #thriller #suspense #mystery
Rating : 4.8/5
January 5, 2025
Monsignor Jack Myslinski and Michael McKinley’s Something Wicked is an extraordinary crime thriller that goes far beyond the usual limitations of its genre. This high-paced thriller set in the Vatican, Rome, London and Middle East not only tells the story of the Father General of the Jesuits, an ambitious nun, an Islamist terrorist, and a Washington Post reporter uncovering the culprits behind a heinous crime. Something Wicked also offers a fascinating insight into the inner workings of the Vatican and the (un)godly forces behind the papacy. Moreover, the authors sketch out a vision for a more progressive and inclusive Catholic Church in their novel. In this sense, Something Wicked is much more than merely cheap fiction, but rather at the cutting edge of theological debates surrounding the ordination of female priests and celibacy for clergy members. Myslinski and McKinley not only look ahead, however, but also highlight just how fragile past progress may be even in today’s Catholic Church. Of course, no book is flawless: in Something Wicked, the plot sometimes seems a little far-fetched and some characters would have deserved more depth. Nonetheless, I could barely force myself to put down this page-turner, and time and again found myself deeply impressed by the authors� ability to draw together various sub-plots (even finding space for some romance!). Something Wicked is a must-read for crime-enthusiasts and anyone hoping to grasp the politics and dark machinations behind the Holy See’s façade. I thoroughly recommend.
March 30, 2025
📚 Faith, Power, and Conspiracy: A Thriller That Keeps You Guessing.
Suspenseful and thought-provoking, “Something Wicked� is a gripping thriller that blends religious themes, political intrigue, and mystery. The novel follows the Catholic Church’s inner workings, Vatican politics, and a shocking act of violence that sparks a high-stakes investigation. Through vivid storytelling and well-researched historical references, it takes readers on a journey through Jerusalem, Rome, and beyond, unraveling a conspiracy that questions faith, power, and morality.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its rich character development. Sister Marie Therese, a determined nun advocating for women's roles in the Church, and Father Dan Lanaham, a Jesuit scholar caught in a deadly web of intrigue, add depth and emotional weight to the story. Their struggles make them relatable, even as they navigate a world of power and secrets. The novel also touches on real-world issues like gender roles in religion and religious extremism.
The writing is immersive and engaging, balancing theological discussions with fast-paced action. The shocking twists and well-placed suspense keep the pages turning until the very end.
For readers who enjoy a mix of history, faith, and gripping storytelling, “Something Wicked� delivers a thrilling and intelligent read.
Suspenseful and thought-provoking, “Something Wicked� is a gripping thriller that blends religious themes, political intrigue, and mystery. The novel follows the Catholic Church’s inner workings, Vatican politics, and a shocking act of violence that sparks a high-stakes investigation. Through vivid storytelling and well-researched historical references, it takes readers on a journey through Jerusalem, Rome, and beyond, unraveling a conspiracy that questions faith, power, and morality.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its rich character development. Sister Marie Therese, a determined nun advocating for women's roles in the Church, and Father Dan Lanaham, a Jesuit scholar caught in a deadly web of intrigue, add depth and emotional weight to the story. Their struggles make them relatable, even as they navigate a world of power and secrets. The novel also touches on real-world issues like gender roles in religion and religious extremism.
The writing is immersive and engaging, balancing theological discussions with fast-paced action. The shocking twists and well-placed suspense keep the pages turning until the very end.
For readers who enjoy a mix of history, faith, and gripping storytelling, “Something Wicked� delivers a thrilling and intelligent read.
February 13, 2025
Something Wicked explores a lot of corruption in the Catholic Church, particularly in the people who surround the Pope. Dan, a Jesuit church leader comes from Jerusalem, where he is serving, to Rome following the death of several women who are leaders of a movement seeking to claim leadership for women within the church. His goal is to find out what caused this disaster. He learns a lot more than he set out to explore.
The reader is exposed to a tremendous amount of information about corruption in the leadership, including links to African gangs as well as Italian Mafia. Also, there are intimations of sexual activities, both gay and straight, among the priesthood.
Most of the plot is delivered through dialogue, and the reader has to keep reminded about who the character is that is speaking. But the plot does move along. Part of me was thinking that the authors had to get what they knew about the church off their chests.
I followed reading this book by watching the Oscar-nominated movie Conclave, which is also concerned with corruption in the Papacy and the Vatican. Well, all of this was information that I really didn’t need to know.
The reader is exposed to a tremendous amount of information about corruption in the leadership, including links to African gangs as well as Italian Mafia. Also, there are intimations of sexual activities, both gay and straight, among the priesthood.
Most of the plot is delivered through dialogue, and the reader has to keep reminded about who the character is that is speaking. But the plot does move along. Part of me was thinking that the authors had to get what they knew about the church off their chests.
I followed reading this book by watching the Oscar-nominated movie Conclave, which is also concerned with corruption in the Papacy and the Vatican. Well, all of this was information that I really didn’t need to know.
May 5, 2025
"Something Wicked" opens with the murder of Sister Maureen O'Connor, a vocal advocate for women's equality in the Catholic Church, during a meeting in Jerusalem. The story centres on Sister Marie Therese De Bruyne as she investigates the killing. She is joined by Father Dan Lanaham, a high-ranking priest, and Jacqueline Brussard, a journalist. A former associate of Father Dan suggests the bombing originated within the Vatican. Father Dan, along with Sister Marie Therese and Jacqueline to uncover the truth. Their investigation leads them into a dangerous world of corruption, organised crime, and religious power struggles within the Catholic Church. The book promises a thrilling exploration of the hidden aspects of the Vatican, highlighting both the darkness and the good within its walls. It is a compelling thriller with a blend of murder mystery with themes of religious intrigue, corruption, and the role of women in the Church. If you enjoy suspenseful plots and stories that delve into the inner workings of powerful institutions, this book is a worthwhile read.
Thank you ‎for providing this book for review by Edelweiss Plus. All opinions are my own.
Thank you ‎for providing this book for review by Edelweiss Plus. All opinions are my own.
March 2, 2025
1.5 stars This is an ARC from Edelweiss. The plot of this caught my attention, and I went into it thinking this would be in the likeness of a Dan Brown novel. Unfortunately, that was not the case. This felt like two different books. The first half was a run of dry Catholic history and an introduction to too many characters to keep straight. The second half progressed a bit better, but there was no intrigue or twist, all the bad doings were already out in the open. Additionally, the character featured in the summary for this book, was not truly the main character, which was confusing. This book needs to shift from a Catholic history lesson/exposay to more of a mystery thriller.
April 16, 2025
💯 A must-read if you enjoy thrillers with meaning.
Something Wicked is a gripping thriller set in the heart of the Catholic Church.
It begins with a tragic bombing and unfolds into a deep investigation led by a strong female protagonist, Sister Marie.
With themes of truth, power, and hidden corruption, the story blends faith, mystery, and suspense beautifully.
Fast-paced yet thoughtful, this book keeps you hooked till the end.
Something Wicked is a gripping thriller set in the heart of the Catholic Church.
It begins with a tragic bombing and unfolds into a deep investigation led by a strong female protagonist, Sister Marie.
With themes of truth, power, and hidden corruption, the story blends faith, mystery, and suspense beautifully.
Fast-paced yet thoughtful, this book keeps you hooked till the end.
February 3, 2025
By some process, I received this ARC through Edelweiss without requesting it and felt compelled and obligated to just page through it. I quickly realized that it was a thriller which is fasted paced and a bit too intense for me. Despite this, I liked the story and the characters, especially the ending, and overall, thought it was a good book.
May 28, 2025
This was a hard book to put down! Get ready for a thriller that is going to leave you chasing nuns, and finding some insights where there aren't many. With one nun in particular determined to figure out what is happening, this book brought a few twists I was not expecting.
Great weekend read!
Great weekend read!
March 6, 2025
Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC. Interesting premise but the romance seemed unnecessary and awkward.
February 13, 2025
A pager turner of a murder mystery! Like the film “Conclave� it takes the reader into the inner sanctums of the Catholic Church, especially locations within the Vatican, and whose characters bring up question about the institution they serve.
In fact, reading this book, it feels very script-like, in the vividness of its scene settings. And the pacing is torrid: there is nothing slow about this book. And rather than one “detective� we get three people who are jointly searching for the truth behind the deaths of a whole group of nuns, nuns who get blown-up at very outset of this story! And then more deaths, as at each death you feel the urgency of time pushing down on those trying to solve the murders, as someone else is killing to cover the murders up. A griping crime thriller with an international setting and a fascinating ensemble of unique characters. The writing is crisp, with no words wasted, as the action barrels forward.
In fact, reading this book, it feels very script-like, in the vividness of its scene settings. And the pacing is torrid: there is nothing slow about this book. And rather than one “detective� we get three people who are jointly searching for the truth behind the deaths of a whole group of nuns, nuns who get blown-up at very outset of this story! And then more deaths, as at each death you feel the urgency of time pushing down on those trying to solve the murders, as someone else is killing to cover the murders up. A griping crime thriller with an international setting and a fascinating ensemble of unique characters. The writing is crisp, with no words wasted, as the action barrels forward.
April 13, 2025
This type of book was certainly down my alley - yet this was not.
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