Francesca: A Novel by Don Tassone examines a radical theme — the elevation of a female priest into the papacy. At a time when there is a lot of controversy in the Catholic Church about ordaining women to the priesthood, the author has crafted a spellbinding, delightful story about Jessica Simon who becomes Francesca after being elected the first female pope. It is the year 2055, and the new pope is poised to lead the Church after the heart of Jesus and following the simplicity of St. Francis of Assisi, who devoted his life to following the teachings of Jesus. She is about to create authenticity in the way of following Christ and that doesn't sit well with some of the powerful people within and outside the Church. As she is determined to infuse a new Spirit into the Church, there are those who will do anything to make sure she doesn't succeed.  Is she prepared for the inevitable?

Don Tassone is a gifted storyteller who captures the setting brilliantly in this atmospheric tale. From the moment readers encounter the heroine, they take a liking to her — and that is right from the very first page. This woman who speaks with a Missouri drawl and who has a rare sense of humor will stay with readers long after the last page is turned. She will remind them of the core values of Jesus and something very essential the Christian tradition has missed — the very reason of its existence. This is an inspiring story with strong elements of a finely-wrought thriller. The writing is fluid and the dialogues transform the story into a pulsating drama that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are complex and multidimensional; they are written with care and are believable. In turns, thrilling and suspenseful, this boldly imagined and expertly executed story will be a welcome delight to fans of Christian fiction and thrillers. Francesca: A Novel by Don Tassone is a real page-turner that is as radical in its themes as it is subtle in its x-ray of the ills of the catholic institution.