Kaiser writes an interesting account of his experience of 'insider' Church politics. A very well-written work, Kaiser never leaves you bored. Although I can see that some readers may be turned off by the clear political camp that Kaiser speaks out of, the book is a value in that it presents a perspective that is often not shared in the Catholic Christian circle of writers.

The use of several well-known international prelates as a guide through the chapters is a nice feature that personalizes the stories and the opinions that are subsequently shared.

I particularly found the discussion about the Asian Bishops' Conference's desire to engage Rome in dialogue about the possibility of forming an Asian 'Rite' of sorts (like that of the Melkite, or other Eastern Catholic Churches) very interesting.

Regardless of one's personal ecclesiology and views on Church politics, this book is a must read for those interested in expanding their knowledge of current church happenings, especially in a post-conclave enviroment.

I would recommend this book.

Former Jesuit Robert Blair Kaiser has written an interesting book, but sadly has allowed his biases to undermine his premise that Benedict is the wrong pope. Perhaps he is, but one can hardly be expected to take Kaiser's arguments seriously when they are tainted by obviously prejudical and sometimes factually inaccurate statements. These include: "...Ratzinger, his (JPII's) minister of truth..." "...(JR) sent his whole life behind a desk..." "...a man who did not play Moazart for pleasure but for pain..." "...spent his early teens in Bavaria as a member of the Hitler Youth..." There is even a comment about the dark circles under Ratzinger's eyes and a reference to wolverines.

Kaiser seems to believe that Joseph Ratzinger controlled the outcome, not only of the recent Conclave, but of the US presidential election. Ratzinger is criticized for making positive statements about the possibility of an African pope, for bringing in translators for his colleagues, for encouraging those who did not speak up to do so, and for his moving and clearly deeply felt tribute to the dead pope.

There is much to criticize in the Catholic Church. It is easy to be appalled at the stances sometimes taken by Benedict and the male-dominated Vatican, but writers like John Allen - who is no fan of Benedict's - offer a much more balanced analysis of the situation.