Absolute Truths

Summary

This historical novel about the Church of England from the New York Times–bestselling author follows a religious leader's doubt and possible fall from grace.

Setting and Main Character

1965. Charles Ashworth is Bishop of Starbridge in the decade known as the Swinging Sixties, famed for its sexual excesses, and he considers it his duty to preach regularly on the evils of fornication and adultery. Backed up by his efficient subordinates and his loyal and attractive wife, he is confident, competent, and formidable.

Conflict

But suddenly, a catastrophe tears his life apart. Mentally and spiritually shattered, Ashworth must deal not only with his old enemy Dean Aysgarth, but with a series of devastating and shocking challenges. Worse still, Ashworth now finds himself tempted by the kind of sin he has always preached against so fervently . . . 

Questions

Is his old friend Jon Darrow able to save him or is Ashworth now quite beyond salvation?

Reviews

A skillful blend of character, philosophy and narrative. . . . Formidable personalities embroil themselves in ruthless (and very entertaining) power struggles that would make a corporate raider blush. —The Washington Post Book World

Enthralling. . . . Rich, dense, almost indecently entertaining. —San Jose Mercury News

Powerful . . . miraculous. —Booklist (starred review)