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A Rose From The Executioner

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Detective Philip Dorian of the 16th Chicago Precinct is called to investigate the serial killing and mutilation of retired, former pedophile priests in the Chicagoland area. It becomes later discovered that Monsignor Joseph Kilbane, chief of staff to the Cardinal, had previously approached his childhood friend, Anthony 'Little Tony' DiMatteo to lend him a "hit man' to commit the murders of these pedophile ex-priests for their insurance money. Although the plot sounds interesting, Little Tony isn't interested, and the Monsignor abandons the idea. During the reigns of prior Chicago bishops and cardinals over the last fifty years, many of these former pedophile priests were allegedly, forced to resign and sheltered away from criminal prosecution, with the caveat that they allow the Archdiocese of Chicago to be the beneficiary of their large life insurances policies. These policies were taken out on these former priests 'as a form of penance for their lives of being sexual predators'. With the innumerate sexual child abuse lawsuits that have been currently filed and settled by the Archdiocese, they are now on the brink of bankruptcy. A serial killer is now out there, and Monsignor Kilbane has no idea who is perpetrating these gruesome homicides, essentially framing him and the Archdiocese for these "Pedophile Priest Murders".

379 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2019

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23 people want to read

About the author

Edward Izzi

13 books30 followers
A full-time CPA and Chicago businessman, Edward Izzi had always had a flair for creative writing. But he didn't start taking his writing talents seriously until much later in life. He has now written a countless number of short stories, poetry, and has completed several fiction thriller novels, including "Of Bread and Wine", "A Rose from The Executioner", "Demons of Divine Wrath", "Quando Dormo", "El Camino Drive", "When A Rook Takes The Queen", "The Buzz Boys", and "They Only Wear Black Hats".

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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Profile Image for Matt.
4,711 reviews13.1k followers
December 16, 2019
Finally published for all to enjoy.

First and foremost, a large thank you to Reedsy Discovery and Edward Izzi for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

New to the work of Edward Izzi, I relied heavily on the dust jacket synopsis for this one, which pulled me in quickly. The same can be said for this fast-paced mystery that mixes great police work with the darkest aspects of the Catholic Church in America. When an old man is found murdered in his basement, Detective Phillip Dorian is called in to help some of his Chicago PD colleagues. The body has been completely gutted and a single rose sits in the pool of blood.The man’s backstory is clean as can be, which baffles everyone. His work with the Chicago Catholic Archdiocese does not raise any flags either, baffling Dorian as he seeks to piece the case together. It is only when a life insurance policy in the amount of $5 million comes to light that things get a little questionable. It would seem the Archdiocese has many of these policies on their former priests, said to be a means to help with the insurmountable costs of settling sexual abuse cases. As Dorian digs a little deeper, he discovers that his victim might not be as pristine as first thought, though the Church refuses to cooperate by revealing what they know. Meanwhile, the Monseigneur assigned to Chicago’s cardinal has been in touch with the local crime family to see about a ‘hitman for hire’ scenario, where those who possess some of the aforementioned policies might meet an untimely death. This juicy tidbit reaches Dorian, though he is stonewalled the more he tries to learn. When more old men turn up dead, Dorian cannot help but wonder if there is someone targeting paedophile priests. Slow going, Dorian is all but forced off the case, even as he discovers what might be a secret society working within Chicago, so off the radar that even members do not know one another. As the case gains momentum and clues begin to come together, Dorian will have to hope that he has cracked the pattern before more men turn up dead. Izzi stuns readers with the complexities of this story, though it remains highly readable. Recommended to those who enjoy multi-faceted crime thrillers that leave little time to rest, as well as the reader who can handle raw focus on Catholic sexual abuse cover-ups.

I had no idea that this is the type of story that would emerge from this book. I am not complaining in the least, but it is by no means a light or easy read. The reader is subjected to a great deal of raw and intense writing by Edward Izzi, who lays it all out there and lets things progress as they will. Phillip Dorian appears to play the protagonist role, trying to crack this case wide open and working under veils of secrecy and pressure from the Church to let things be. Izzi develops his protagonist with some interesting backstory, a divorced man with children and a grandchild, who still has a strong connection to the Church, but puts work ahead of all else. His attention to detail can sometimes work in his favour, though he has his own foibles, which the reader will discover. He is thorough, which helps as the case progresses. Others who complement Dorian help move the story along well. There are numerous heroes and a handful of horrible men who grace the pages, as Izzi seeks to paint both sets as completely as possible. The story itself is stunning in its detail and degree of disturbance. Izzi chooses to pull the veil back and—at times—graphically discuss some of the abuse that occurred in years past at the hands of the priests. Izzi develops certain flashback chapters that tell of different happenings, which ties in nicely with the modern story. The addition of this secret society is told in such a wonderful manner that the reader can almost feel as though they are present throughout. The narrative is kept strong and the momentum does not let up, powered by short chapters full of information. If I had a single concern, it would be the order in which some of the chapters are presented. Without revealing too much, there is a semi-chronology needed to impact the ‘abuse’ and the ‘resolution’ for the reader, though Izzi has a few chapters that refer to the aforementioned society that are out of place and leave a portion of the story somewhat jagged. There are sure to be some who feel Izzi relies too much on the stereotypical views of the Church and priests, though this view has been substantiated by many over the years. His raw and blunt writing shines a light on something that has—and remains—a thorn in the side and needs attention.

Kudos, Mr. Izzi, for a fabulous piece. I cannot say enough about it and hope others find this read just as riveting.

Check out my Reedsy Discovery posting as well: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/a-r...

Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/

A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Profile Image for BooksCoffee.
1,068 reviews
February 24, 2021
Izzi traces an intricate course marked by brutal serial killings, bouts of extreme torture, an insurance fraud, secret societies, dirty church politics, and global conspiracies, in his fast-paced, multifaceted latest, featuring Detective Philip Dorian of the 16th Chicago Precinct.

The ritual killing of a former priest in the Chicagoland area sets Dorian on a path that eventually leads to him investigating gruesome serial killings of many Catholic priests. The victim’s clean history puzzles Dorian who is trying to find a link between the ritual killing and the victim’s past. When the victim’s life insurance policy in the amount of five million comes to surface, Dorian knows there is more to the killing than it seems on the surface. With the Archdiocese involved and the chief of staff to the Cardinal Monsignor Joseph Kilbane’s close connection with the mafia boss Anthony ‘Little Tony’ DiMatteo, the things get more complicated. More murders follow, and it seems there is someone seeking retribution for decades-old injustices caused by numerous pedophile priests.

Izzi is adept at portraying both good and evil in his characters. The impressive large cast of characters includes police, venal and egotistical members of Catholic church, and a group of vigilante serial killers along with the sinister Chicago mafia. Dorian as the lead detective shines. He is a complex character whose integrity and high principles make readers root for him. Anthony ‘Little Tony’ DiMatteo, with his ruthless nature makes for an impressive mafia boss. A standout in the large array of cast is Kilbane, whose cunning machinations keep Dorian and others in the 16th Chicago Precinct busy.

Izzi’s crisp prose is well suited for the tension-filled, high action scenes in which the story takes countless unforeseen turns at high speed, and his darkly expressive imagery, including descriptive passages of violence, bloodshed, physical torture, and sexual abuse of young boys make for a mature reading experience.

The measured pacing, gritty, realistic dialogue, and intricate plotting keep the pages turning. The complicatedly plotted narrative is rife on shocking revelations, and a dramatic resolution draws the threads of the plots together.

Izzi handles the complex themes of pedophilia, corruption, social justice, vengeance, and redemption with skill and understanding. With its heavy action and a fast pace, this novel is both chilling and first-rate entertainment.
Profile Image for Tony Parsons.
4,156 reviews96 followers
May 7, 2021
Chicago, IL. Albany Park 4215 W. Argyle St. The 79, elderly man enjoyed gardening/landscaping around his residence.
He volunteered at Lurie Children’s Hospital 3 days a week to work with the sick children.
Occasional dinners with Angela Pecorino (neighbor, Italian elderly lady-friend), & mass/confession at Our Lady of Mercy Parish.

1-evening the older man heard some loud noises coming from the basement & went to investigate.
“May Jesus grant you mercy, Father John Marquardt.”
Jefferson Park. Detective Tommy Morton (Chicago PD Homicide 17th District) called Detective Phillip Dorian (CPD Homicide 16th District).
Englewood, S. Chicago, IL. The EMT’s, CFD, CPD, CSI & others were already at the crime scene.

Trattoria Pagliacci restaurant/bar. N. Halsted. Monsignor Joseph Kilbane (Irish Catholic) was late for his dinner meeting with his longtime friend Anthony “Little Tony” DiMatteo (63, DiMatteo Tomato Co., bookmaking, loan sharking operation, video poker games, slot machines distributor).
Monsignor Joseph Kilbane explained his predicament.
The Chicago Archdiocese has paid out over $200 million in lawsuit settlements to abused recipients who were the victims of pedophile priests over the last 20 yrs. The Archdiocese’s policy is to pay these lawsuits from the church’s assets, rather than the weekly collections.
Because of the cost of these excessive lawsuits, the liquid assets/investments have almost diminished & the Catholic Church can no longer make any more claims on the liability insurance coverage for the increasing malicious settlements.

1964, Father John Marquardt (church pastor) scolded Paulie Russo (St. Rosalia Parish altar boy) for wearing his tennis shoes to mass.
After mass, Paulie could hear Joey Campisi (Paulie’s friend, St. Rosalia Parish altar boy) screaming/hollering inside Friar Marquardt office.
N. State St. Father Marquardt (BS; BA, Loyola U; MA; accounting) went to see Cardinal John D. Brody (wheelchair bound).

There are several complaints from Guardian Angels School parents that you have been having inappropriate sexual misconduct behaviors with their children.
We won’t allow you to continue as a Priest within our diocese any longer.
John signed the legal papers & left.

Cindy Jankowski (Great Lakes Life Insurance Co. claims accountant) & Detective Dorian mentioned the deceased Father John Marquardt’s $5-million life insurance policy claim to Olivia Laurent (42, single, Great Lakes Life Insurance Co. CFO, CPA, Albion College; accounting, Wayne State U; JD).
When Detective Phillip went to interview Monsignor Kilbane he seemed to have all the why answers on Father Marquardt’s life insurance policy.

Father Lucas Senopoli (78, Students Dean, diabetes, 2 heart valve stints), Father Gabriel Swann HS trigonometry teacher), & Monsignor Patrick Kelly (Chicago Archdiocese/Cardinal’s office associate) were present also in the meeting.
Father Senopoli was asked to resign & sign the legal papers.
“May Jesus grant you mercy, Father Lucas Senopoli (78, Archdiocese of Chicago retired maintenance worker,).”
5027 N. Menard. Detective Morton & Detective Dorian, EMT’s, CFD, CPD, CSI & others arrived at the crime scene.

James Rubino (BMF) had found the victim & was interviewed.
Holy Name Cathedral. Monsignor Joseph Kilbane was about to give the 6:00 mass.
Knights of Columbus. Grand Knight Brother Ezekiel called an important meeting.
Those in attendance are: Brother Aaron (VP, 2nd in command), Brother Jebediah, Brother Barabbas, Brother Ephraim, Brother Jeremiah, Brother Tobiah, Brother Zebedee, Brother Adam, Brother Jacob, Brother Cain, Brother Reuben, Brother Able, Brother Joachim, & Brother Ebenezer.
Brother Cain read the secret society’s scriptures.
Archdiocese Monsignor Giacomo Fusciardi (Pope’s Vatican Special Diplomat) paid an unexpected visit to the Chicago Markowitz.

Will the Pedophile Priest Murderer(s) get solved & someone brought to justice?

I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.

Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content (racial hatred), violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (pedophile, rape, sodomy, minor verbal, psychological, emotional, physical & sexual abuse) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.

An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, A very professionally written Catholic crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters & facts to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free Author; Cassino Publishing, Inc.; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
2 reviews
July 5, 2019
Wow!
Based on the current events of today and the pedophile priest issues going on in the news, this book is on target. What an amazing writer! Cannot wait for number 3!!!!!
Profile Image for Shellie.
258 reviews12 followers
May 20, 2023
"A Rose From The Executioner" by Edward Izzi introduces readers to Detective Philip Dorian of the 16th Chicago Precinct, who finds himself immersed in a chilling investigation. A series of serial killings and mutilations targeting retired, former pedophile priests in the Chicagoland area brings Dorian face to face with a web of corruption and dark secrets.

As the investigation unfolds, it is revealed that Monsignor Joseph Kilbane, chief of staff to the Cardinal, had approached his childhood friend, Anthony 'Little Tony' DiMatteo, with a sinister proposition. Kilbane sought to hire a hitman to carry out the murders of these pedophile ex-priests for their insurance money. However, Little Tony, uninterested in the plot, declines the offer, leaving the Monsignor to abandon the idea.

The plot takes a sinister turn as it is discovered that over the last fifty years, the Archdiocese of Chicago, under the reigns of previous bishops and cardinals, had forced many of these former pedophile priests to resign and shielded them from criminal prosecution. In exchange, the Archdiocese became the beneficiary of their substantial life insurance policies, seen as a form of penance for their predatory actions. With a multitude of sexual child abuse lawsuits now being filed against the Archdiocese, they teeter on the brink of bankruptcy.

As the serial killer continues to target these former priests, Monsignor Kilbane finds himself unaware of the true identity of the perpetrator, leaving him and the Archdiocese vulnerable to being framed for the "Pedophile Priest Murders."

"A Rose From The Executioner" delves into the dark underbelly of corruption, scandal, and retribution within the Catholic Church. Edward Izzi crafts a gripping narrative that explores the sinister motivations behind the murders and the consequences of a long history of abuse and cover-ups. Detective Philip Dorian must navigate through layers of deception and intrigue to uncover the truth, all while the lines between justice and vengeance blur.

Prepare to be engrossed in this suspenseful thriller as the investigation unravels, revealing shocking revelations and testing the boundaries of trust and loyalty.
Profile Image for Becca.
3,176 reviews43 followers
August 27, 2023
I don't know what reading order these should be in lol. But I got to see Little Tony again. He's cool. You get introduced to some more characters in this one. This is another hard one because of the subject. But it's so very good. The plot is amazing. And it's a very huge moral dilemma. I love that the author isn't afraid of approaching these subjects either. So good.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rhonda.
2,885 reviews48 followers
May 26, 2021
Intrigue and mystery keep you turning the pages. Interesting and complex characters. Lots of twists and turns with plenty of drama thrown in to keep you wondering until the end. Unexpected events provide many thrills and wonder moments. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Louise.
1,462 reviews19 followers
March 28, 2023
This investigative story is not a casual read. The story is gritty and a slow-burn read. The book includes tough topics.


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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