Death in Black and White: A Novel

By: Michael Brisson

Narrated by: Kevin O'Brien

Father Christopher Hart, a young New York priest and classic film buff, is unwittingly drafted by the mob to hear the confession of a man slated for execution. This was not one of the duties he expected when he became a first-time pastor. Learning how to balance the books and safely navigate parish politics, yes; but playing a key role in the White Death—a mafia ritual in which a person condemned to death is allowed to confess his sins before he's killed—was not included on the Parish Leadership 101 curriculum. Should he just do his job and collaborate with the mob for the sake of souls, or find a way to stop the violence?

Unrelentingly comparing his life to his favorite classic movies, Father Hart wishes he could just play the role of Father O'Malley from Going My Way, but he ends up playing a character more akin to Philip Marlowe from The Big Sleep. This riveting thriller will entertain, but it will also drive the listener to grapple with important themes such as identity, purpose, justice, sin, and, ultimately, redemption.

©2024 Ignatius Press (P)2024 Ignatius Press

Entertaining

I was entertained and intrigued by some of the characters. Loved the narrator. Some elements of the storyline were a little implausible but, hey, what’s a novel for!!

Mostly Enjoyable

An interesting premise that I enjoyed from a Catholic perspective. Lots of humor, a little disappointment in the actions of the main character at times (we always expect our priests to be super men) along with some very poignant passages about forgiveness and the priesthood.

The Modern Damon Runyon

Humongous while, at the same time, dealing with the Mafia in NY, death, both of labeled either White and Black, yet in both cases are murders. A suspenseful story as it deals with Catholic priests that are as broken as the rest of us are, most of whom find the grace to seek forgiveness and begin again.

Intrigue, Catholic-style

I was initially a little hesitant to embark on this novel, afraid that it might be used as an excuse to subtly bash the Church. But it wasn’t. As a Catholic, I enjoyed the story. Some of the character accents by the narrator were a little over the top. Otherwise it was a very good narration.

Not on Sunday!

Great story! The main character is very relatable, and everything flows well - with so many twists and turns!

Vocation Recruitment Read

Fast paced mystery weaving in insightful spiritual benefits of Sacramental Grace, Temptation, Sin and Mercy… And, fascinating character development.

A very real man who has chosen the priesthood

Great dialogue, deep theology, highly entertaining story. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to more from Fr. Brisson!