This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. The Cardinal Sins

   

   Set against the backdrop of Chicago's vibrant Catholic community, this compelling narrative delves into the intertwined lives of two ambitious priests, Kevin Brennan and Patrick Donahue, who navigate the complex world of faith, power, and personal ambition. As they rise through the ecclesiastical ranks, their friendship is tested by moral dilemmas, personal desires, and the seductive allure of power. The story explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, painting a vivid picture of the human struggle to balance spiritual devotion with earthly temptations.

   The 17113th Greatest Book of All Time

2. 2. A Midwinter's Tale

   The Healing Power of Love

   

   The novel is a heartwarming tale set during the Christmas season, where a young priest named Father Jimmy faces a crisis of faith and identity. As he returns to his hometown in Chicago, he becomes entangled in a mystery involving a series of miraculous events and a troubled family. Through his journey, Father Jimmy reconnects with his roots, discovers the power of love and forgiveness, and ultimately finds renewed purpose and hope. The story beautifully weaves themes of spirituality, community, and the magic of the holiday season.

3. 3. The Bishop At Sea

   A Blackie Ryan Story

   

   In this captivating mystery, a charismatic bishop finds himself embroiled in a high-seas adventure when a luxurious cruise turns into a crime scene. As he navigates the intricate web of deceit and danger, the bishop must rely on his wit, faith, and intuition to unravel the truth behind a murder that threatens to disrupt the serene voyage. With a colorful cast of characters and unexpected twists, the story blends elements of suspense, humor, and spirituality, offering readers a thrilling journey through the complexities of human nature and the quest for justice.

4. 4. Happy Are The Oppressed

   

   Set against the backdrop of a politically charged environment, this gripping narrative delves into the lives of individuals caught in the crossfire of societal upheaval and personal turmoil. The story intricately weaves themes of power, resistance, and the human spirit's resilience, as characters navigate the complexities of oppression and the quest for justice. Through a tapestry of interconnected stories, the narrative explores the moral dilemmas faced by those who dare to challenge the status quo, ultimately highlighting the enduring hope and courage that can arise even in the darkest of times.
5. 5. Angels Of September

   A Novel of Suspense

   

   Set against the backdrop of Chicago, this gripping narrative weaves a tale of mystery, faith, and redemption. The story follows a determined journalist who becomes embroiled in a complex investigation after a series of inexplicable events hint at supernatural interventions. As she delves deeper, she encounters a tapestry of characters, each with their own secrets and struggles, challenging her beliefs and pushing her to confront her own past. The novel explores themes of morality, the power of belief, and the unseen forces that shape our lives, all while maintaining a suspenseful and engaging pace.

6. 6. Happy Are Those Who Mourn

   A Father Blackie Ryan Story

   

   In this gripping mystery novel, the charismatic Father Blackie Ryan finds himself embroiled in a complex web of secrets and lies as he investigates the mysterious death of a wealthy and influential Chicago family patriarch. As he delves deeper into the family's tangled history, Father Ryan uncovers a series of hidden motives and simmering tensions that threaten to unravel the very fabric of their lives. With his keen intellect and compassionate nature, he navigates the treacherous waters of family loyalty and betrayal, ultimately seeking justice and redemption for those left in the wake of tragedy.

7. 7. Confessions Of A Parish Priest

   An Autobiography

   

   Set against the backdrop of a vibrant Chicago parish, this narrative delves into the life of a charismatic and introspective priest who grapples with the complexities of faith, love, and duty. Through candid reflections and heartfelt confessions, the story explores the intricate balance between spiritual obligations and personal desires, revealing the priest's internal struggles and triumphs. As he navigates the challenges of his vocation, he encounters a tapestry of parishioners whose lives intertwine with his own, offering a poignant exploration of the human condition and the enduring quest for meaning and connection.

8. 8. How To Save The Catholic Church

   Crisis and Reform

   

   In this insightful exploration, the author delves into the challenges facing the Catholic Church, offering a candid analysis of its current state and proposing a series of transformative measures to rejuvenate its spiritual and institutional vitality. The narrative highlights the importance of embracing transparency, fostering inclusivity, and adapting to modern societal values while remaining true to core religious principles. Through a blend of historical context, personal anecdotes, and forward-thinking strategies, the book serves as both a critique and a hopeful blueprint for revitalizing the Church's role in contemporary society.

9. 9. Happy Are The Poor In Spirit

   A Novel of the Irish Troubles

   

   Set against the backdrop of Chicago's vibrant Irish-American community, this intriguing mystery novel delves into the complexities of faith, family, and social justice. The story follows a determined priest who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation that shakes the foundations of his parish. As he navigates the tangled web of secrets and lies, he grapples with his own beliefs and the moral dilemmas posed by the case. With a keen eye for cultural detail and a deep understanding of human nature, the narrative explores themes of redemption, loyalty, and the enduring power of hope.
10. 10. Happy Are The Peace Makers

    A Father Blackie Ryan Story

    

    Set against the backdrop of political intrigue and religious tensions, this gripping novel follows the journey of a charismatic priest who becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy that threatens to unravel the fragile peace in Northern Ireland. As he navigates a web of deceit and betrayal, he must rely on his faith, wit, and courage to uncover the truth and prevent a devastating conflict. With richly drawn characters and a compelling narrative, the story explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for harmony in a divided world.

11. 11. Happy Are The Merciful

    A Blackie Ryan Story

    

    Set against the backdrop of Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods, this gripping mystery unfolds as Father Blackie Ryan, a perceptive and compassionate priest, is called to solve a perplexing murder case. The narrative intricately weaves together elements of faith, morality, and human complexity, as Father Ryan navigates through a web of secrets, lies, and hidden motives. With his keen insight into human nature and a deep understanding of the power of forgiveness, he unravels the truth behind the crime, revealing the profound impact of mercy and redemption in the lives of those involved.

12. 12. The Catholic Myth

    The Behavior and Beliefs of American Catholics

    

    This insightful exploration delves into the complex tapestry of Catholicism, challenging preconceived notions and stereotypes often associated with the faith. Through a blend of historical analysis, sociological insights, and personal anecdotes, the narrative seeks to unravel the intricate relationship between Catholic doctrine and the lived experiences of its followers. It highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of Catholic identity, emphasizing the diversity and adaptability that have allowed it to endure through centuries. The work invites readers to reconsider their understanding of Catholicism, presenting it as a vibrant and multifaceted tradition that continues to shape and be shaped by the modern world.

13. 13. White Smoke

    A Novel of the Vatican

    

    In this gripping tale of intrigue and suspense, the story unfolds against the backdrop of a papal conclave in the Vatican, where the election of a new pope becomes a catalyst for political maneuvering and hidden agendas. As cardinals from around the world gather to cast their votes, a series of mysterious events and clandestine meetings threaten to disrupt the sacred process. Amidst the tension, a journalist and a Vatican insider find themselves entangled in a web of secrets, struggling to uncover the truth while navigating the complex dynamics of faith, power, and ambition. The narrative weaves together elements of mystery, religion, and human drama, offering a compelling exploration of the challenges faced by those at the heart of the Catholic Church.

14. 14. Star Bright!

    A Christmas Story

    

    Set against the vibrant backdrop of Chicago, this enchanting tale weaves together elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural. The story follows the journey of a young woman who discovers her unique ability to see the "light" within people, a gift that leads her into a world of intrigue and danger. As she navigates the complexities of her newfound powers, she encounters a charismatic priest and a mysterious stranger, both of whom play pivotal roles in her quest for understanding and belonging. With themes of faith, love, and self-discovery, the narrative explores the delicate balance between the seen and unseen, ultimately revealing the profound impact of inner light on the human spirit.
15. 15. Happy Are The Clean Of Heart

    

    Set against the backdrop of Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods, this engaging mystery follows the journey of a determined journalist, who becomes embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue and personal vendettas after the murder of a beloved priest. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a series of secrets that challenge her beliefs and test her resolve. With a rich tapestry of characters and a plot that intertwines faith, love, and justice, the story explores the moral dilemmas faced by those seeking truth in a world filled with corruption and deceit.

16. 16. Happy Are The Meek

    A Blackie Ryan Story

    

    In this gripping mystery, a Chicago-based priest and amateur detective finds himself embroiled in a complex case involving the murder of a prominent businessman. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit, power struggles, and hidden motives within the city's elite. Balancing his moral convictions with the demands of solving the crime, he navigates through a labyrinth of clues and suspects, ultimately revealing the unexpected truth behind the murder. The story weaves together elements of faith, justice, and the human condition, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the darker sides of ambition and greed.

17. 17. The Priestly Sins

    

    In this gripping narrative, a young and idealistic priest, Father Herman Hoffman, finds himself embroiled in a scandal that shakes the very foundations of his faith and the church he serves. After witnessing a fellow priest committing an unspeakable act, Herman is torn between his duty to protect the sanctity of the church and his moral obligation to seek justice for the victims. As he navigates the murky waters of ecclesiastical politics and personal dilemmas, Herman's journey becomes a poignant exploration of conscience, courage, and the enduring battle between good and evil within the sacred corridors of the church.

18. 18. Virgin And Martyr

    

    Set against the backdrop of a vibrant Irish-American community, this novel delves into the life of a young woman whose untimely death leaves a trail of mystery and introspection. As her family and friends grapple with the loss, they uncover layers of her life that reveal a complex interplay of faith, love, and personal struggle. The narrative weaves through themes of religious devotion and the societal expectations placed upon women, ultimately questioning the true nature of sacrifice and martyrdom in modern times.

19. 19. Happy Are Those Who Thirst For Justice

    A Novel of Suspense

    

    Set against the backdrop of Chicago's vibrant and complex urban landscape, this gripping mystery novel follows the determined and insightful Father Blackie Ryan as he delves into a tangled web of political corruption, personal vendettas, and moral dilemmas. When a prominent judge is found dead under suspicious circumstances, Father Ryan's keen sense of justice and unwavering faith guide him through a labyrinth of secrets and lies. As he navigates the city's intricate social dynamics, he uncovers hidden truths that challenge his beliefs and test his resolve, ultimately leading to a profound exploration of justice, redemption, and the human spirit.
20. 20. Irish Gold

    A Nuala Anne McGrail Novel

    

    Set against the backdrop of the lush Irish landscape, this captivating tale follows Dermot Michael Coyne, a young American of Irish descent, as he embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind his grandparents' mysterious past. With the help of the spirited and enchanting Nuala Anne McGrail, Dermot delves into a world of political intrigue, family secrets, and forbidden love. As they navigate the complexities of Ireland's history, the duo finds themselves entangled in a web of danger and romance, ultimately discovering that the past holds the key to their future.