The plot, the characters, and the settings are well coordinated. There are many surprises as ‘the plot thickens.” The main character, Jeff Hansen, has many important decisions as to what to do with his life.
We are taken from his days as a paralegal in his uncle’s firm to his days in a Trappist monastery. What will be his final choice? This question is what keeps one reading until the end.
A very enjoyable story.
“A fun, deliciously scandalous … depiction of queers in the clergy.” Brown’s prose straddles the vigorous, the poignant, and the sordid in equal measure, particularly during moments when Jared embraces his wild side and when Paul’s faith is tested against his deeply felt attraction to Jared … Though the characters lose some of their early allure, a surprise twist revives things. Brown channels his former vocation as a minister and spiritual director into creating a narrative that is authentically pious but riddled with sex and shocking secrets. For readers of queer romance yarns, this novel will satisfy on several levels…
A Well-written, Effective Story A gay Roman Catholic clergyman faces the sharp scrutiny of a homophobic dignitary in Brown’s novel, the fourth in a series. A Well-written, Effective Story A gay Roman Catholic clergyman faces the sharp scrutiny of a homophobic dignitary in Brown’s novel, the fourth in a series.
In this religious fiction sequel, a gay teen tries to navigate faith, tumultuous family secrets, and first love. Fifteen-year-old Randy Carter lives in Las Vegas and loves skateboarding barefoot, spending time with his best friend, Keisha, and being an acolyte to his caring priest and mentor, Father Sean. In many ways, Randy would seem to be the typical, self-proclaimed “skater boy,” but two things set him apart: He hopes to one day become a priest, and he is gay. Just as Father Sean is helping Randy to understand how his religion and his sexuality do not have to be contradictions,…
Randy, the acolyte, is bright, earnest, honest, talented, and very naive. With a deep sense of vocation to the priesthood, he learns that being gay is just one of many challenges to be met. Bullies, teen suicide, betrayal, family dysfunction, and having to fend for himself bring out his sterling qualities and his shadows as well. But nothing tests him quite so sharply as learning the truth about Michael, his first deep love. This coming-of-age story is Brown at his finest.
There is something deeply magnetic about We Are Not Saints: The Monk. From the first encounter with Jeff Hensen’s journey, I felt the weight and wonder of a story shaped by struggle, faith, and the fierce search for meaning. The emotional clarity of his inner battle, the stark honesty of his wounds, and the quiet strength of his perseverance create a narrative that feels both raw and luminous. The way the book blends spiritual reflection, moral tension, and human vulnerability gives the story a living pulse that stays with the reader long after the final line.
Compelling Drama with Depth Compelling Drama with Depth– This book delves into the complexities of morality, redemption, and the human condition with gripping intensity. Through Bishop Sean Foley’s turbulent journey, readers are drawn into a world of intrigue, heartache, and ultimately, resilience. With its authentic portrayal of flawed characters and ethical dilemmas, it leaves a lasting impact that prompts reflection and empathy.