Conclave

After the pope dies, Cardinal Lomeli must supervise the conclave that will choose his successor. One hundred and eighteen cardinals enter the sealed Vatican, carrying regional loyalties, theological divisions and private ambitions into an election whose result will shape the Church.

As ballots expose rival blocs, Lomeli receives information that threatens leading candidates and the reputation of the dead pope. Procedure becomes suspense as he must distinguish legitimate scrutiny from manipulation while fulfilling an office that requires neutrality.