Francesca

A Novel

It is 2055, and there’s a new pope. It’s Jessica Simon, an American, a wife, and a mother. She’s taken the name Francesca. A lifelong advocate for the poor, she believes the Catholic Church must return to Jesus’ teachings and bring God to life in the world. But powerful forces are aligned against her. They see Francesca as a threat.

Will Pope Francesca succeed in renewing the Church? In an hour of darkness, can she rekindle the light?

©2021 Don Tassone (P)2021 Don Tassone

Anything is Possible

I found Francesca a remarkable and moving read. Born Catholic in an Indiana town that once produced a Cardinal who served as Archbishop of St. Louis, the story of a young girl’s journey from Springfield, Missouri to St. Peter’s Basilica proved especially interesting to me. But it was much more than an interesting read. It suggests that in a rapidly changing world that is proving far too chaotic and unpredictable and where hope is put to the test daily, that individual initiative and strong qualities of leadership can make a difference. And while the scenario leading to the first woman Pope might be seen as a work of fiction, the author lays out a pathway that is quite believable. After all, anything is possible. We can only hope.

Thought-provoking and timely!

Fascinating premise in the not-so-distant future—our book club had a lively discussion after reading this novel. Beautifully detailed story that challenges centuries-old tradition yet presents a good case for change! Inspirational in many ways.