The Catholic Book Club discussion

The CBC selects its books to read each month by way of three lists: the Voting List, the Nomination List and the Current Interest List. Nominate books in the thread below and they will be added to the Nomination List. Eventually they will make it to the Voting List. The lists are described further in the posts below, including how a book can be put on the Current Interest List.

The moderators will try to keep this thread to one page. If your nomination doesn't have any information other than the title of the book it will be deleted after it has been added to the Nomination List. If you include other information, such as the reason why you think it would be of interest to the group, we will leave your nominating post in place until the book has been removed from both the Nomination and Voting Lists.

Voting List. You can nominate books anytime simply by replying in this thread. On about the 15th of each month, a Moderator will post the then current Voting List for a vote for the following month's BOTM. Except as noted below, books that are not selected as a BOTM will remain on the Voting List. The Voting List is capped at 15 books. After each month's vote, in addition to the book which is selected to be read, all books that get 0 or 1 vote will be removed from the Voting List and those with 1 vote will be added to the end of the Nomination List again. Each month after the voting is over a Moderator will update this Voting List so everyone can see what the current nominations are. They are the following:

The Anti-Mary Exposed: Rescuing the Culture from Toxic Femininity by Carrie Gress, nominated by Emmy
In the late ’60s, a small group of elite American women convinced an overwhelming majority of the country that destroying the most fundamental of relationships—that of mother and child—was necessary for women to have productive and happy lives. From the spoiling of this relationship followed the decay of the entire family, and almost overnight, our once pro-life culture became pro-lifestyle, embracing everything that felt good. Sixty million abortions later, women aren’t showing signs of health, happiness, and fulfillment.
Voting History: November 2025: 4; January: 6; February: 4

The Burning Bush by Sigrid Undset, nominated by Fonch
Second part to The Wild Orchid, which we read in December 2021. See discussion here: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/group...
Voting History: NONE

Champions of the Rosary by Donald H. Calloway, nominated by Ann
From the best-selling author of the classic Catholic conversion story, No Turning Back: A Witness to Mercy by Fr. Donald H. Calloway, comes a powerful and comprehensive history of a spiritual weapon: the rosary.
Voting History: April 2025: 3; June 2025: 2; July 2025: 2; August 2025: 2; November 2025: 4; January: 6; February: 3

Conversation With Christ: The Teaching of St. Teresa of Avila About Personal Prayer by Peter-Thomas Rohrbach nominated by Sebastian and Fonch
The practicality of St. Teresa's teaching about mental prayer shines through in this wonderful synopsis of her writings about it–something she said "the whole world could not purchase." Learn how we should pray, in order to grow in the spiritual life.
Voting History: February: 4

The Cypresses Believe in God: Spain on the Eve of Civil War - A Novel (Los cipreses creen en Dios) by José María Gironella, nominated by Susan
Considered by many critics to be the greatest novel about the Spanish Civil War, this classic work by Spaniard Jose Maria Gironella is an unbiased account of the complicated events, movements and personalities that led up to the war. Beginning in 1931, Cypresses covers the next five years of political unrest, culminating in the explosion of the brutal war that wreaked such great havoc on Spain and its citizens. In his epic novel, both gripping and suspenseful, Gironella deftly portrays the human conflict, both internal and external. The most influential philosophical movements of the 20th century are embodied in various characters.
Voting History: February: 4

The Genius of Christianity or the Spirit and Beauty of the Christian Religion, by François-René de Chateaubriand, nominated by Fonch
The Genius of Christianity or The Spirit and Beauty of the Christian Religion is a book written by Viscount Francois-Rene de Chateaubriand, a French writer and diplomat, in 1802. The book is an exploration of the Christian faith and its impact on human civilization, culture, and society. De Chateaubriand argues that Christianity is the most sublime and beautiful religion, and that it has played a crucial role in shaping the Western world.
Voting History: NONE

Pilgrims by M.R. Leonard, nominated by M.R.
Out-of-work Latin teacher and borderline alcoholic Austin DeSantis is determined to spend his final days in the arms of a prostitute—that is if the aliens don’t exterminate humanity first . . . But when the aliens land at the Vatican, begin speaking Latin, and reveal themselves to be Catholic, the world turns upside down.
Voting History: January: 2; February: 2

Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention by Sarah Clarkson, nominated by Jill
In a noisy world, the cultivation of quiet may feel like a luxury you do not have. But it is also vital to your spiritual life. When we spend our days distracted by social media, news, entertainment, and jam-packed schedules, we make it nearly impossible to experience the kind of thought life that allows us to grow into the people God created us to be--to become more and more like Jesus.
Voting History: NONE

The Rifle, and Other Stories by Tomás Carrasquilla, nominated by Steven R.
The Rifle, and Other Stories collects eleven stories spanning the literary career of Tomás Carrasquilla, the "first Colombian novelist", whose work is widely known within the country, and a high-school standard in the department of Antioquia, home to the city of Medellín. His novels and short stories straddle the traditional stylings of Costumbrismo and an anti-Modernist, picaresque realism, with a consistent focus on manifestations of Catholicism in both domestic and communal spheres.
Voting History: NONE

The Secret of the Holy Face: The Devotion Destined to Save Society by Fr. Lawrence Daniel Carney III, nominated by Sandralena
From the creation of man to the current ecclesial infiltration and world revolution, the devil and his minions have sought to destroy the human race made in the image of God. No longer attacking from without, they are now secretly laying siege from within the Holy Roman Catholic Church. But why is God allowing this? He loves to see souls heroically battle for the faith.
Voting History: NONE

The Seven Spiritual Weapons by Catherine of Bologna, nominated by Maggie
St. Catherine of Bologna, much venerated in her own city, has been little known outside of her native region but interest in her is now increasing. The outline of her life is clear and her own work, The Seven Spiritual Weapons, tells a good deal about her inner experiences and early years in the cloister. The introduction to this translation situates her life in the history of Ferrara and Bologna and studies how the external history of the community impinged on Catherine's own religious experience and how it was interwoven with her successful struggle against depression.
Voting History: NONE

This Thing of Darkness by K.V. Turley and Fiorella De Maria, nominated by Emmy
Hollywood, 1956. Journalist and war widow Evangeline Kilhooley is assigned to write a "star profile" of the fading actor Bela Lugosi, made famous by his role as Count Dracula. During a series of interviews, Lugosi draws Evi into his curious Eastern European background, gradually revealing the link between Old World shadows and the twilight realm of modern horror films.
Voting History: June 2025: 4; July 2025: 4; August 2025: 4; November 2025: 3; January: 2; February: 4

War Demons, by Russell S. Newquist, nominated by Fonch
Driven by vengeance, Michael Alexander enlisted in the Army the day after 9/11. Five years later, disillusioned and broken by the horrors he witnessed in Afghanistan, Michael returns home to Georgia seeking to begin a new life. But he didn't come alone. Something evil followed him, and it's leaving a path of destruction in its wake.
Voting History: NONE

Why Religion Went Obsolete: The Demise of Traditional Faith in America by Christian Smith nominated by Jill
Traditional religion in the United States has suffered huge losses in recent decades. The number of Americans identifying as "not religious" has increased remarkably. Religious affiliation, service attendance, and belief in God have declined. More and more people claim to be "spiritual but not religious." Religious organizations have been reeling from revelations of sexual and financial scandals and cover-ups. Public trust in "organized religion" has declined significantly. Crucially, these religious losses are concentrated among younger generations. This means that, barring unlikely religious revivals among youth, the losses will continue and accelerate in time, as less-religious younger Americans replace older more-religious ones and increasingly fewer American children are raised by religious parents.
Voting History: NONE

With Two Eyes Into Gehenna, by Jane Lebak, nominated by Steven R.
A rosary in one hand. A dagger in the other. Sister Magdalena never heard of the Catherinite nuns until the day she faced her own death sentence. Rome, 1562. It’s the era of the Index of Banned Books and the Roman Inquisition. Kings still burn heretics. The worst threats come from within the Church itself. Only seventeen, Magdalena killed a priest who tried to rape her within the walls of her convent. His powerful family will see her executed, and then they’ll destroy her mother and young sister.
Instead, the pope makes an offer. To save her life and protect her family, Magdalena can disappear into a secret religious order, one with a demanding physical regimen to go along with the prayers.
Voting History: February: 2

The following is the Nominations List. Each month, after voting, the top books on the Nominations List will be added to bring the Voting List up to 15 books. Once a year, following the voting for the December BOTM, a Moderator will conduct a preference vote to re-order the Nominations List.

Struck books in the following list have been moved to the voting list.

Please feel free to continue to add new nominations below the list.


1. A Song for Nagasaki: The Story of Takashi Nagai a Scientist, Convert, and Survivor of the Atomic Bomb by Paul Glynn nominated by Mariangel
2. With Two Eyes Into Gehenna, by Jane Lebak, nominated by Steven R.
3. Paradoxes of Catholicism, by Robert Hugh Benson, nominated by Sergio
4. The Hundredfold: Songs for the Lord, by Anthony M. Esolen, nominated by Joe
5. Conversation With Christ: The Teaching of St. Teresa of Avila About Personal Prayer by Peter-Thomas Rohrbach nominated by Sebastian and Fonch
6. The Queen's Tragedy by Robert Hugh Benson, nominated by Fonch
7. The Cypresses Believe in God: Spain on the Eve of Civil War - A Novel (Los cipreses creen en Dios) by José María Gironella, nominated by Susan
8. Invasion '14, by Maxence Van der Meersch, nominated by John
9. Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father by Donald H. Calloway, nominated by Mariangel
10. The Seven Spiritual Weapons by Catherine of Bologna, nominated by Maggie
11. The Secret of the Holy Face: The Devotion Destined to Save Society by Fr. Lawrence Daniel Carney III, nominated by Sandralena
12. Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention by Sarah Clarkson, nominated by Jill
13. The Rifle, and Other Stories by Tomás Carrasquilla, nominated by Steven R.
14. The Genius of Christianity or the Spirit and Beauty of the Christian Religion, by François-René de Chateaubriand, nominated by Fonch
15. War Demons, by Russell S. Newquist, nominated by Fonch
16. Why Religion Went Obsolete: The Demise of Traditional Faith in America by Christian Smith nominated by Jill
17. The Burning Bush by Sigrid Undset, nominated by Fonch
18. Vipers' Tangle by François Mauriac, nominated by Susan
19. In Pieces by Rhonda Ortiz, nominated by Fonch
20. Light From Darkness: Nine Times the Catholic Church Was in Turmoil- and Came Out Stronger Than Before by Steve Weidenkopf, nominated by John
21. Our Lady of the Sign by Abigail Favale nominated by Emmy
22. The Execution of Justice, Elisabetta Sala, nominated by Susan and renominated by Fonch
23. A Cardiologist Examines Jesus: The Stunning Science Behind Eucharistic Miracles by Franco Serafini, nominated by John
24. Eucharistic Miracles and Eucharistic Phenomena in the Lives of the Saints by Joan Carroll Cruz, nominated by John
25. Building a Civilization of Love: A Catholic Response to Racism by Harold Burke-Sivers, nominated by Jill
26. The Book that Made Your World: How the Bible Created the Soul of Western Civilization, by Vishal Mangalwadi, nominated by Mariangel
27. Saints vs. Scoundrels: Debating Life's Greatest Questions by Benjamin Wiker, nominated by Emmy
28. Hope Does Not Disappoint (Spes non confundit): Bull of Indiction of the Ordinary Jubilee of the Year 2025 by Pope Francis, nominated by Jill
29. Exogenesis by Peco Gaskovski, nominated by Steven R.
30. This Is Your Last Warning: An Authoritative End of Days Timeline by Donna Silveira, nominated by Donna
31. Dilexit nos - He loved us: Encyclical letter about the human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus-Christ by Pope Francis, nominated by Manuel
32. Understanding the Hillbilly Thomist: The Philosophical Foundations of Flannery O’Connor’s Narrative Art by Damian Ference, nominated by Fergus, Quondam Happy Face
33. The Mango Murders, by Mara Campos, nominated by Madeleine
34. Paul: A Biography, by N.T. Wright, nominated by Jill
35. The Bishop of the Abandoned Tabernacle: Saint Manuel Gonzalez Garcia by Victoria Schneider, nominated by Catherine
36. The Letters of Magdalen Montague by Eleanor Bourg Nicholson, nominated by Emmy
37. The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany by Katherine Koch, nominated by Katherine
38. Pierre Toussaint: A Biography by Arthur Jones, nominated by Kathleen
39. Ancient of Genes by Dan Gallagher, nominated by Dan
40. The Ghost of Madison Avenue by Nancy Bilyeau, nominated by Fonch
41. The Resurrection of the Son of God, by N.T. Wright, nominated by Frances
42. Sonnets for Christ the King, J.C.MacKenzie, nominated by Joseph
43. The Shattering of Loneliness: On Christian Remembrance by Erik Varden nominated by Kristi
44. Catatonia by Courtney Stephen Crane, nominated by Courtney
45. Champion of Valdeor, by Sandralena Hanley, nominated by Fonch
46. The Purple Robe, David Dean, nominated by David
47. Bakhita: A Novel of the Saint of Sudan by Véronique Olmi, nominated by Don Mario
48. Amazing Grace: A Vocabulary of Faith by Kathleen Norris, nominated by Faith
49. Demoniac, by Nathan Krupa, nominated by Nathan
50. GIVE LOVE: A 91-Day Devotional for Searching Catholics by Heidi E. Vincent nominated by Heidi
51. Behold the Man: A Catholic Vision of Male Spirituality by Harold Burke-Sivers, nominated by Jill
52. Intercession by Kevin J Haar, nominated by Madeleine
53. The Gospel According to Judas: A Handbook on Life by John H. Doe, nominated by Andrew
54. Dilexi Te: Apostolic Exhortation on Love for the Poor by Pope Leo XIV, nominated by Fonch.
55. Christianity and Anti-Christianity in Fantasy and Science Fiction by Manuel Alfonseca, nominated by Fonch.
56. Jiao Tu’s Endeavour: Episode 1: The Kidnapped Mousling by Donald Jacob Uitvlugt, nominated by Fonch.
57. The Arrow That Flies by Day by John Servant, nominated by John Servant
58. The Secrets of Successful Financial Planning: Inside Tips from an Expert, by Dan Gallagher, nominated by Dan
59. Wheat that Springeth Green by J.F. Powers, nominated by Steven R.
60. Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father by Donald H. Calloway, nominated by Mariangel
61. Invasion '14, by Maxence Van der Meersch, nominated by John
62. The Queen's Tragedy by Robert Hugh Benson, nominated by Fonch
63. Works of Mercy by Sally Thomas, nominated by Stef
64. The Good, the Bad, and the Beautiful by Joseph Pearce, nominated by Fonch

Current Interest List. The Current Interest List operates as follows:

(a) Anyone nominating a book that qualifies may ask that it be added to the Current Interest List in addition to the Nomination List, but only if they (or someone else on their behalf) are willing to volunteer to prepare the initial discussion questions for the book. (If you want to jump the queue, you should have some skin in the game.)

(b) To qualify for the Current Interest List a book must be "timely" (as determined by the moderators in their discretion) and must have been published within the 12 months prior to the month in which the voting will be held. Examples of "timely" books would include Encyclicals, potentially other Church documents, books by senior Church officials, books addressing current affairs from a Catholic perspective. The moderators will determine whether books should be included on the Current Interest List. The Current Interest List is not expected to have books on it all the time and is not anticipated to ever have a large number of books. The moderators may adjust the criteria to ensure this is the case.

(c) Each month the top book on the Current Interest List will be added as a supplemental 16th book on the Voting List, while keeping its position in the normal Nominations List.

(d) If the book from the Current Interest List is not selected as the BOTM, it receives at least two votes, and otherwise still qualifies, it will be dropped to the bottom of the Current Interest List. The 3rd time a book from the Current Interest List is included in the Voting List and not selected as the BOTM it will be dropped from the Current Interest List, though it will remain in its position on the Nomination List. If it is selected as the BOTM, it will be removed from the Nomination List. If a book from the Current Interest List gets only one vote, it will be dropped from the Current Interest List, but will retain its position on the Nomination List. If it receives no votes, it will be dropped from all lists, though, of course, it may be re-nominated, and if it still qualifies, may be placed back on the Current Interest List.

Current Interest List:
1. Dilexit nos - He loved us: Encyclical letter about the human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus-Christ by Pope Francis, nominated by Manuel
2. Dilexi Te: Apostolic Exhortation on Love for the Poor by Pope Leo XIV, nominated by Fonch
3.

I would like to nominate: With Two Eyes Into Gehenna
by Jane LebakJane Lebak.

It is very different than any that have been books since I have been a member and would love to follow the discussion on it.

My name is David Dean and I have been a published writer (amongst many other things) for the past thirty years; mostly in crime fiction. My own most cherished work, however, is my novel of Catholic fiction entitled, "The Purple Robe". It's published by Tumblar House Press, a small Catholic publisher, and concerns a young priest investigating a purported holy relic in the jungles of the Yucatan. I hope some of you might consider giving it a read. I've attached a link for your convenience. The Purple Robe

I nominate Sonnets for Christ the King by Joseph Charles MacKenzie. A collection of traditional lyric poems of Catholic inspiration that James Sale of the Royal Academy (London) has called "major poetry by a major poet." Amazon is offering a compelling discount for the deluxe hardcover. The companion audiobook is performed by northern English stage actor Ian Russell.Sonnets for Christ the King

I nominate Demoniac. I'm the author, and would be willing to do a free kindle giveaway for the group if that is desired.

John wrote: "I've decided to slightly alter the way we move up books from the nominations to the Nominations List for voting. Since Fonch and I are the most prolific and, shall we say enthusiastic, nominators o..." I nominate "Pierre Toussaint" by Arthur Jones, a biography of a man born into slavery in Haiti who became a benefactor to the poor of all races in early 19th century New York City, is a candidate for sainthood, and who along the way was the hairdresser to the wife of Alexander Hamilton.

I would like to nominate to "Champion of Valdeor" by Sandralena Hanley. Steven R. McEvoy wrote a good review of This book i have totally faith. Mariángel posted a post me speaking about to nominate some book by Patricia Asedegbega. I Will write to Asedegbega in case that she wanted to nominate some of her books at This moment i could not buy any book although my birthday It is to close i asked for to my sister the present "The myth of the Hitler's pope" by David G. Dalin and i will delay buying books. I did not know if i nominated previously but a good book would be "Burning bush" by Sigrid Undset but before we must Read the prequel "Wild Orchid". Burning bush is my favorite Sigrid Undset's novel.

I would like to purpose the novel of the new members of Catholic Book Club Russell S. Newquist "War Demons" a lot of Friends Adam Lane, Declan Finn and Richard Paolinelli have spoken very good about This novel.

The Orange Dragon Bowl
I am the author of this book and I have used this route to possibly bring the book to the attention of Catholic readers, upon the suggestion of Manuel Alfonseca.

When 15-year-old Julie Tyler wakes up on page one of THE ORANGE DRAGON BOWL she has no idea that that night she’s coming face-to-face with evil. It starts with an un-pitted black olive‒laced bean salad brought to a candle-lit mother-daughter dinner at her school. It’s meant to do harm, and does. That same night Julie and her mother barely escape a deadly gang fight. Then someone at Julie’s school begins a nonstop campaign of vicious back-stabbing, mean pranks, and academic sabotage. Nothing is spared to make her life hell at school. Meanwhile, Julie’s mother is diagnosed with a very serious type of breast cancer that almost kills her. And Julie’s father’s reputation as a once highly regarded assistant district attorney is dragged through the mud. Is the same demonic force behind all these vile deeds? What has unleashed it, and why? This tale is played out against a pro-Catholic, pro-life, pro-conservative values, pro-family, and pro-tradition background. This book is suitable for both YA and adult readers. It has received nine 5-star reviews since it was published in October.

I purpose the Rhonda Ortiz's novel "In pieces" https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5... nowadays Rhonda Ortiz is the main editor of the Chrism Press, which is publishing Interesting Christian fiction https://chrismpress.com/about-us/ besides Mss. Ortiz has very good ideas to improve the Catholic Fiction genre. I share with you an article about This topic published in Catholic World Report https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2... It would be an excellent suggestion for Catholic Book Club.

I would like to nominate my book, The Arrow That Flies By Day. It is a story about overcoming the obstacles in your path to achieve your dreams and find redemption even if your failures are always before you. You can see a preview at https://www.johnservantbooks.com/.

I am nominating Wheat that Springeth Green by J.F. Powers. Powers only published 2 novels and several collections of short stories. Both his novels are about priests. And both won the national book award many years apart. A version of this short story is one of the chapters in the book. http://bookreviewsandmore.ca/2005/12/...

Ah. Well, then I would like to nominate my novel, Ancient of Genes. I have noticed very strong interest among Catholic readers and it could make for a lively discussion. There were interesting reviews from Catholic thinkers when it firts came out long ago. These may be found in the front matter by using tge Look Inside feature at online stores or at many physical stores. Thanks for considering my nomination; hope self-nomination is allowed. God bless!

Such a great group!

I’d like to nominate IN THE SHADOWS OF FREEDOM, published last year, and coauthored by my wife and me. It is a work of Catholic dystopian fiction.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...

——————

The United States is finally a meritocracy, where the best and most capable rise to the top. Existing laws and regulations continue to be repealed, and freedom is the mantra of the people.
Amanda Burrow, a talented painter, moves to New York City to attend an elite art academy. Once there, she falls for self-assured Ethan Ramsey, a staunch member of the National Citizens Party: the nation’s ruling faction. The NCP seeks to banish anything—or anyone—that might jeopardize an individual’s autonomy.
Amanda’s habitually dull and depressed world is turned upside down by her newfound relationship with Ethan. Yet as the NCP heightens its persecution of those who oppose its agenda, will Amanda find true freedom and discover her own identity in a new and increasingly merciless society?

——————

Steven McEvoy and Andrew Gillsmith (who are both part of this group) have positively reviewed the novel on Goodreads.

I’d be happy to provide everyone in the group who would like to read it a free ebook copy.

More info on the series can found here: https://spellmanbooks.com/

Thanks for the consideration!

I would like to nominate "Intercession" by Kevin Haar, with apologies to the author for being late to review it--hopefully will have it out within the week, we've been in and out of town, and playing catch up in between. It's a lovely book, set in a remote Irish island, with parallel protagonists with little in common and a masterful mix of religious faith, superstition, and folklore, all coming together in the end.

I nominate The Rifle, and Other Stories -Tomás Carrasquilla - Translated by ML Clark I struggled with this collection of stories by Columbian Catholic author available in English for the first time. I would love to see other responses to the stories and Catholicism as presented. Note: for transparency I have known the translator and publisher for several years.

This book was recommended on the blog Rorate Caeli. I have not read it, but I would like to read it with the book club. The Execution of Justice by Elisabetta Sala https://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/202...

The Vipers' Tangle by Francis Mauriac
from Amazon description: Mauriac’s best novel.”—Catholic World
“A lucid and penetrating study . . . Mauriac proves himself as good a storyteller as he is a psychologist.”—The New York Times
“A most admirable and exciting novel.”—New StatesmanThe masterpiece of one of the twentieth century’s greatest Catholic writers, Vipers’ Tangle tells the story of Monsieur Louis, an embittered aging lawyer who has spread his misery to his entire estranged family. Louis writes a journal to explain to them—and to himself—why his soul has been deformed, why his heart seems like a foul nest of twisted serpents. Mauriac’s novel masterfully explores the corruption caused by pride, avarice, and hatred, and its opposite—the divine grace that remains available to each of us until the very moment of our deaths. It is the unforgettable tale of the battle for one man’s soul.

Hello everyone,
Thanks to Manuel for the permission to nominate my own book for consideration. It is called "Into the Cloud of Knowing" and the ebook version can be found here if the US - https://amzn.asia/d/6pVIC8o or in Australia - https://amzn.asia/d/6pVIC8o

I have been grateful for the official reviews received.
I also have book video trailers that provide a visual of the book's themes which are non-fiction and cover a range of Catholic topics and experiences of God.
www.renatoantonio.com

Thanks

I would like to nominate Exogenesis by Peco Gaskovski.

"Out of the collapse of Old America rises Lantua, a glittering thousand-mile metropolis where drones patrol the sky and AI algorithms reward social behavior. The most compliant citizens enjoy the greatest privileges, the poorest struggle to rise up the echelon system, and criminals are subjected to brain modification. Birthing and genetic quality are controlled through mass embryonic selection, with fetuses grown outside the body in artificial wombs—a technology known as exogenesis. But rebellion is brewing. Lantua struggles to control the Benedites, a rural religious people who refuse to obey one-child regulations. Each February, Field Commander Maelin Kivela oversees the forced sterilization of Benedite teenagers, a duty she carries out with unflinching zeal—but this year comes with a shock. After escaping an ambush by insurgents, Maelin returns to the city to choose one of over three hundred embryos to be her child, only to come face to face with a secret that will tear her life apart and alter the course of her civilization."

Jennifer S. Bryson recently finished translating The Church in the Flesh by Ida Friederike Görres; it is published by Count Media. https://clunymedia.com/products/the-c... or https://www.amazon.com/Church-Flesh-I.... Conveniently, she sent me a study guide that could be used by the book club, found here https://www.idagoerres.org/books.
"Across six refreshingly candid 'letters,' Ida Friederike Görres develops a conversation aimed at a clarified, renewed, and strengthened faith in Jesus Christ and His Church. Affirming truth and rejecting error, Görres explains the incarnate nature of the Church and the necessity of the sacraments; the historical reality of the Church and the persistence of Tradition; the simplicity of the reason to believe in the Church: namely, Jesus Christ, the One who issues the invitation to faith; the necessary 'nuisance' of morality in the Church’s mission; the kingship of Christ as the basis for the Church’s triumphs and tribulations; and the saints as the living proof of God’s salvific power and purpose.”

https://www.goodreads.com/es/book/sho...
The Cypresses Believe in God by Jose Maria Gironella. "Considered by many critics to be the greatest novel about the Spanish Civil War, this classic work by Spaniard Jose Maria Gironella is an unbiased account of the complicated events, movements and personalities that led up to the war. Beginning in 1931, Cypresses covers the next five years of political unrest, culminating in the explosion of the brutal war that wreaked such great havoc on Spain and its citizens. In his epic novel, both gripping and suspenseful, Gironella deftly portrays the human conflict, both internal and external. The most influential philosophical movements of the 20th century are embodied in various characters. Through them, the reader is introduced to every faction involved--ancharist, communist, Catholic, royalist, existentialist, and others."
I read this many years ago, and loved it. It's time to reread this great book, especially in light of the heavy hand tactics of the current Spanish government and persecution of Catholics

I'd like to nominate the book 'Understanding the Hillbilly Thomist: The Philosophical Foundation of Flannery O'Connor's Art' by Father Damian Ference. It is a study of the influence of Saint Thomas Aquinas on this epochal American chronicler of the skewed morality of the Deep South.

Nominate "Champions of the Rosary" by Donald H. Calloway "https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

Nomination for The Sower of Black Field: Inspired by the True Story of an American in Nazi Germany

SUMMARY FROM THE BOOK:

Throughout the Third Reich, millions of Germans pledged allegiance to Adolf Hitler. In the Bavarian village of Schwarzenfeld, they followed an American citizen.

As he struggles to rekindle the faith of a guilt-ridden Wehrmacht veteran, a morose widow, and her grieving teenage son, Fr. Viktor Koch, C.P. is haunted by self-doubt. What is driving him to stay in the Third Reich? Is he following a higher plan, or the mystic compulsion of his German heritage? Exposed to American ideals, his parishioners grow restless under Nazi rule. Relying upon his ingenuity to keep them out of prison, Fr. Viktor solicits aid from an unlikely intercessor--the Nazi charity worker who confiscated his monastery for state purposes.

In April 1945, American liberators make a gruesome discovery: the SS have left a mass grave of concentration camp victims on Schwarzenfeld's borders. Enraged by the sight, the infantry commander orders the townspeople to disinter 140 corpses, construct coffins despite material shortages, dig a grave trench, and hold a funeral ceremony--all in 24 hours. If they fail to fulfill this ultimatum, he vows to execute all German men in town.

Fr. Viktor has to pull off a miracle: he must convince his countrymen that his followers are not the enemy. Their humanity is intact. And most of all, they are innocent.

“A compelling exploration of faith and resistance in the face of oppression.” –Kirkus Reviews ("GET IT" rating)

"The historical context, characters, and faith-keeping actions make for a memorable read." -Reedsy Discovery

"Faith in God, and the testing of that faith, is interwoven through the novel... A picture emerges of people caught up in a conflict not of their making, resisting as they can from its evils, and finding strength in the courageous example of their pastor." - Chanticleer Book Reviews ("BEST BOOK," 5 STARS!)

Current interest list,

Saint Catherine of Bologna, The Seven Spiritual Weapons,

The God of the Abandoned Tabernacle

The Bishop of the Abandoned Tabernacle by Victoria Schneider

The Hermit: The Priest Who Saved a Soul, a Marriage, and a Family, by Kevin Wells.

I enjoy Wells' frequent contributions to Catholic publications online, and this book sounds excellent. From the Amazon product page:

"In his raw and tender memoir, biographer Kevin Wells pulls readers into the unforgettable story of a parish priest turned hermit, Father Martin Flum, who orchestrated the slow resurrection of his wife, Krista, from the nightmare of her deep wounds and addiction.
In gripping fashion, Kevin tells the story of his family's own long suffering, which culminated in the dark spring of 2020, as a strange fear pressed down upon the world and his wife spent most nights drinking away long-held shame. When a near-universal chorus of politicians, medical professionals, and Catholic clergy megaphoned the command to "isolate," Kevin couldn't imagine a more dooming word for his family, his marriage, and the life of his wife.

"Yet God had other plans. Wells' honest tale of inner crisis and hope-filled resurrection takes readers on a spiritual rollercoaster, offering a penetrating exploration of the sacramental grace of marriage and the mysterious movement of God in dry, lonely places.

"In the journey from darkness to light, three lives--Krista, Kevin, and Father Flum--became forever entwined. It is a deeper kind of love story. The chapters on the fits and starts of renewal unfold like the piecemeal opening of a tomb. The Hermit is a true account of marital survival, a holy priest, redemption, and even the miraculous, where imprisoned shame and sin are transformed into the joy of freedom."

I nominate in the name of Sebastian Fricke Conversation with Christ by Peter Thomas Rohrbach.

Hello! I have a couple books I'd like to nominate...

This Thing of Darkness --a chilling Catholic horror novel featuring the late Bela Lugosi

The Letters of Magdalen Montague-- a short, but beautiful story told through letters written by an agnostic who is slowly becoming influenced by a pious woman he falls in love with

I highly recommend Secret of the Holy Face by Fr. Lawrence D. Carney III. A must read to conquer Communism with a simple prayer :
Show us Thy face, O Lord, and we shall be saved.

I'd also like to nominate: Saints vs. Scoundrels: Debating Life's Greatest Questions. This book is based on a show on EWTN and it's a delight to watch every week!

I hope there's not a limit on how many we can nominate! I'd also like to add The Anti-Mary Exposed: Rescuing the Culture from Toxic Femininity by Carrie Gress. It sounds like a really fascinating one!

I propose Bakhita: A Novel of the Saint of Sudan by Véronique Olmi.

Don Mario, I read Bakhita last year. Excellent suggestion.

I would like to nominate Works of Mercy by Sally Thomas.

Hello! I'm a Catholic author who is currently publishing my debut novel Pilgrims:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

A sci-fi retelling of Augustine's Confessions, it is about a washed-up Latin teacher who gets thrust into the center of humanity's first contact with Catholic aliens.

The reviews so far have been outstanding (from Catholics and non-Catholics alike) and the audiobook (coming 11/15) is superlative - a credit to Catholic art as a whole.

Christopher Ruocchio, bestselling author of The Sun Eater (and fellow Catholic) said "Leonard balances big-idea science fiction with thriller-like pacing, and blends each with his Catholic faith to stunning effect. A striking debut. I couldn’t put the book down.”

I'd love to nominate PILGRIMS for the list!

Pope Francis - Hope Does Not Disappoint

Sarah Clarkson - Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention

Erik Varden, The Shattering of Loneliness: On Christian Remembrance

please add Why Religion Went Obsolete by Christian smith

I just finished Kathleen Norris' "Amazing Grace: A Vocabulary of Faith." I recommend it as an easy and entertaining book.

Amazing Grace: A Vocabulary of Faith by Kathleen Norris, has been my daily spiritual reading for a few months. I assigned myself a chapter a day. Maybe a couple of chapters because a chapter could have been one paragraph or half a page. At most, a long chapter was about four pages; just perfect for me.

Norris begins by explaining her pious childhood and then her adolescent rebelling. As an adult, she tried to figure out why she had abandoned her families' religious sensibility. She decided that it must have been the vocabulary. The church vocabulary was off-putting in the secular world she was living. Hence, this book is examining churchy vocabulary:

Hi everyone. I am a new Catholic author and I started the Catholic Bible Books Devotional Series © to help Catholics grow in their knowledge and love of the Catholic faith as well as their relationship with God.

Firstly, I would like to nominate the 2nd devotional in my series - GIVE LOVE: A 91-Day Devotional for Searching Catholics - which is available at all Amazon stores and Barnes & Noble.

Secondly, I would also like to have it added to the Current Interest List since it is quite timely - it was published in July 2024.

Heidi E. Vincent

Ignatius Press has a new book, Our Lady of the Sign. Still waiting for my copy from the library, but I'd like to add this to the nominations list :)

I have long wanted to read these books, but have never gotten around to it. Maybe it can happen this next year.

A Cardiologist Examines Jesus: The Stunning Science Behind Eucharistic Miracles, by Franco Serafini

Eucharistic Miracles and Eucharistic Phenomena in the Lives of the Saints, by Joan Carroll Cruz

I nominate the Consecration to St Joseph by Fr. Calloway

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...

Andrew Lewis wrote the following comment:

I’d love to propose The Gospel According to Judas: A Handbook on Life by John H. Doe for our next read.

At first glance, the title might spark curiosity or even controversy,but what lies inside is something entirely different from what you might expect. The book isn’t really about Judas at all (though it does give him a surprising and thoughtful nod). Instead, it’s a collection of philosophy, reflections, visions, and even poetry woven together in a way that’s both playful and thought-provoking.

The author explores deep questions of faith, meaning, and existence, often through unexpected angles. For example, what if “work is magic”? How do we think about paradoxes like “Can God make a rock He couldn’t lift?” And what does it mean to live with imagination, curiosity, and reverence in everyday life?

What makes this book especially book-club friendly is its format,it’s divided into bite-sized sections, so it’s easy to pick up, reflect on, and then discuss. It’s the kind of book that sparks conversation not only about the text itself but about our own beliefs, experiences, and interpretations of life.

It’s not your typical “gospel”,it’s more of a philosophical journey sprinkled with creativity and humor. I think it would give us plenty to talk about, challenge our perspectives, and maybe even inspire us.

If you’re looking for something fresh, unconventional, and discussion-worthy, this one deserves a spot on our reading list.

current interest: Dilexi Te by Pope Leo

If there is an English edition, I would like to suggest Christianity and Anti-Christianity in Fantasy and Science Fiction by our Co-Ledger, Professor Manuel Alfonseca, as a reading.

I wish to nominate the novel by Jiao Tu’s Endeavour: Episode 1: The Kidnapped Mousling de Donald Jacob Uitvlugt