(Reviewed by JD Jung)
“People who are different, even outcasts by some, are not outcasts to the Lord.”
Cardinal Anthony Budd had no desire to become Pope. Also, it was unlikely since he was an outsider and would be only the second British Pope in history. When the papal conclave was hopelessly deadlocked, Budd was surprisingly chosen. This “reluctant Pope” accepted, abiding to the will of God, just like he did when he received the calling to join the priesthood.
As Pope Innocent XIV, he sought to elevate the poor both spiritually and materially. He wanted the powerless to have a voice in Rome and be given respect and dignity.
Part of that belief may have been due to a secret he was carrying. Though he didn’t think it was that significant, he still did not want to reveal it. However, when he is blackmailed by someone who is aware of his past, he must make an important decision.
Yes, you may think you’ve read this before or have watched it on the big screen, but the The Silence of Flesh is unique and thought-provoking. In fact, I don’t think that the title is indicative of the story. In any event, we learn about Vatican politics, and what one will do to advance and maintain their position of power. This includes betraying a close friend and throwing their principles aside for expediency. However, I think as we gradually learn about the man, Tony Budd and his past, his actions provide a more meaningful impact on the plot, than those of his detractors.
The ending was a complete surprise, but it made sense and kept me thinking for days. Two questions that still comes up in my mind are: “Is it ever worthwhile to hide your true identity and what are the consequences?” and “Can Anyone really escape their past?”
The Silence of Flesh is a page-turner that will affect readers in different ways. A must read!