Well, whether she is the best in Catholic fiction can be subjective. However, if there is such a claim, it could be because of her deep understanding of Catholic culture and theology. Her works might be able to convey the spiritual and moral aspects of Catholicism in a way that resonates with readers. For example, she could be using historical Catholic settings to tell stories that are both educational and entertaining, which would contribute to her being regarded as one of the top in the genre.
Perhaps it's her unique take on Catholic themes. She could be exploring the complex relationship between faith and modern - day life in a way that other Catholic fiction authors haven't. This would make her works stand out and contribute to her being seen as the best.
One of the best is surely 'Sins of the Fathers'. It tells a story that is both thought - provoking and emotionally engaging. The way Howatch weaves the plot and develops the characters is really remarkable. You get to see different sides of human nature, and it makes you reflect on things like family, morality, and the consequences of our actions.
One of the best is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although not explicitly Catholic, its themes of good vs. evil, sacrifice, and the battle against the dark forces resonate with Catholic values. Another great one is 'The Power and the Glory' by Graham Greene. It delves into the life of a priest in Mexico during a time of religious persecution, showing the struggles and the power of faith. Also, 'Brideshead Revisited' by Evelyn Waugh is a classic. It explores themes of Catholic guilt, redemption, and the beauty and decay of aristocratic life within a Catholic framework.
I think 'A Canticle for Leibowitz' by Walter M. Miller Jr. is a great Catholic fiction novel. It's set in a post - apocalyptic world where the Catholic Church is trying to preserve knowledge. It shows how the Church endures and is a symbol of hope in difficult times. 'The Brothers Karamazov' by Fyodor Dostoevsky is also very relevant. It has in - depth discussions on morality, sin, and redemption which are important aspects of Catholic teachings. Then there's 'The Hound of Heaven' by Francis Thompson which is a long poem but can be considered as a form of fictional exploration of the soul's pursuit of God, which is a central concept in Catholicism.
One of the best is Father Brown. He's a simple - looking priest with a stout figure. But don't let his appearance fool you. He's incredibly perceptive and uses his knowledge of Catholic teachings and his experience with people to figure out the truth behind mysteries. Father Merrin from 'The Exorcist' is also great. He's an old - school priest who has studied the dark arts in order to combat them. His presence in the story is very powerful. And we can't forget about some of the priests in religious - themed novels where they are shown as beacons of hope and moral compasses in their communities.
One of the well - known best catholic fiction works is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although not explicitly Catholic in a preachy way, it contains many themes such as the battle between good and evil, sacrifice, and the power of friendship which are in line with Catholic values. Another is 'The Chronicles of Narnia' by C.S. Lewis. These books are full of Christian allegories, like the character of Aslan representing Jesus. It teaches moral lessons and shows the journey of characters towards redemption and good, which are important aspects of Catholic teachings.
Often, they have strong moral and ethical themes. For instance, stories might deal with the struggle between good and evil, much like in traditional Catholic teachings.
Another popular one is 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. Although not strictly Catholic in nature, its themes of good vs. evil, sacrifice, and the presence of a higher power resonate with Catholic values. Tolkien was a devout Catholic and his faith influenced his writing. The characters' moral struggles and their journey towards a greater good are elements that appeal to Catholic readers.
Look for works that contain Catholic values such as love, forgiveness, and moral integrity. For example, if a story emphasizes the importance of turning the other cheek or showing mercy, it may be a good candidate. Also, stories that deal with the concept of sin and redemption are often catholic - influenced. Novels where characters struggle with their inner demons and then find a path to salvation through their faith or through acts of kindness.
Another great piece of 'best new catholic fiction' might be 'Brideshead Revisited' by Evelyn Waugh. It beautifully portrays Catholic themes of sin, redemption, and the struggle between the worldly and the spiritual life. The characters are complex and the story is set against the backdrop of grand estates and the changing social landscape, which adds depth to the exploration of Catholic values.