Authorpreneur Dashboard – Sal Tocco
The Cardinal and the Crook
Religion & Spirituality
Discover a captivating tale of family, love, faith, and the pursuit of justice in "The Cardinal and the Crook" by Sal Tocco. This emotionally charged work of fiction takes readers on a journey through multiple time periods and locations, following the intertwining lives of Father Pat and his adopted twin sons, John and James. When James becomes an FBI informant to take down the Martoni crime family, he risks his life and relationships in the pursuit of justice. His decision sets off a chain of events that explores loyalty, morality, and the difficult choices made in the name of truth. As James prepares to testify against the Martonis, the narrative shifts to his twin brother John's journey to the priesthood and reunion with their birth mother. Their complex relationship delves into themes of faith, forgiveness, and the intricacies of family bonds. Finally, Father John's rise to archbishop sees him battle sexual abuse within the church, addressing the need to expose evil and reclaim moral authority. Recurring motifs of love, redemption, and the power of family resonate throughout this multifaceted tale. Tocco's masterful exploration of the triumphs and tribulations faced by the cardinal, the crook, and their loved ones creates a rich, emotionally resonant narrative that stays with you long after the final page.
Book Bubbles from The Cardinal and the Crook
Unexpected Response
John had been considering the priesthood since he was a teenager. Now that he is in his final semester of college, he announces that he has decided to apply to the seminary. John expected his adopted father--a Catholic priest--to be thrilled by this decision. Instead, he is shocked by his father's initial response.
A Shocking Revelation
A friendly card game in a college dorm room quickly deteriorates into an angry brawl. In the aftermath of this confrontation, James learns something surprising about his roommate's father. This news strengthens the bond between these two friends and ultimately leads to a major turning point in their lives.
Painful Encounter
Painful experiences are unavoidable in our lives. These stressful moments can cause us to lose faith resulting in bitterness and apathy. Alternatively, these difficulties can strengthen our faith and help us to grow into more determined and empathetic individuals. The incident described in this excerpt is a dramatic turning point in the life of John Donnelly. The young priest has just come upon a boy who has been sexually abused by another priest. John's response and subsequent actions will have a powerful impact on this young victim, John's future in the priesthood, and the entire church.
A Different Perspective
This is one of the most powerful scenes in the novel. Throughout life, decisions-especially major ones-are not always black and white. These are the times that we need to step back and holistically consider the choices from various aspects. James is struggling with a decision that will impact the rest of his life. If he testifies against the crime family; he will be placed in the witness protection program and will never see his loved ones again. He has just shared his dilemma with his family. Father Pat helps James to view his decision from a different perspective.
Special Guardian Angels
Our faith can be severely tested when we observe pain and suffering throughout the world. This is especially true when a loved one is taken at a early age. In this scene, a father and his young sons are deeply distraught over their untimely loss. In seeking to provide comfort and support, the old priest provides an enlightened message of hope.
One Problem
John and Danielle encounter each other while hiking in the Berkshires. Danielle quickly recognizes the empathetic nature of this young man. She has recently ended her engagement with the love of her life and feels comfortable sharing her rationale for making this difficult decision.
Opportunity to Grow Stronger
The young seminarian seems to have changed since his brother's tragic death. It takes an encounter with the tough, but empathetic monsignor to turn John around. This scene is an excellent example of the underlying message of the Cardinal and the Crook. We can allow tragedy and loss to weigh us down and destroy us, or we can embrace them with unshakable faith, determination and courage that transforms these adversities into opportunities to grow and become stronger.
The Challenges of Parenthood
Father Pat, who has become extremely attached to the abandoned infants, has made the bold decision to adopt them. His close friend from The Department of Children and Families attempts to dissuade him. The priest acknowledges Frank's concerns and then with passionate eloquence refutes his friend's argument. Father Pat's response will resonate with all parents who have faced the challenges of raising children.
Love Never Dies!
The two brothers are having a deep conversation. James will soon be placed into the FBI's witness protection program and will never be able to see his family again. He continues to berate himself for his poor judgment which resulted in this painful situation. In consoling his brother, John reminds him of a very important fact.
