Outstanding investigative journalism of dark saga

I read the first edition of this book the day after it was published and did the same with Louise Milligan's reading of the updated edition. I'm sure i'm not the only Ballarat resident and ex-Catholic who did this. It is brave, articulate and above all motivated by a deep empathy for the survivors of this abominable era in the Ballarat Diocese and across the country. You can hear the emotion in the narration frequently as Milligan describes the "undescribable" and the impact. This story of Pell describes a character that no writer of fiction would get away with. His presence and impact over decades is beyond extraordinary. Even if the sequence didn't end in the repulsive conviction that it did, Milligan paints a character portrait of a man who is up to his ears in the cover ups and denial that has left so many broken and in despair. Jus twenty years in this country this book would not have been written, let alone published. Milligan's relentless bravery gives survivors the hope that they are believed and cared for.

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This story had to be told !

A remarkable yet disturbing recount of history. This story is shocking and abominable however it had to be told. A brilliant script of work by Louise Milligan and after a rushed start in her narration, she settled in and read beautifully. Louise deserves all the accolades and awards she has received for this brilliant document.

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Detailed and comprehensive

This book goes well beyond the case directly involving Pell to expose the systemic abuses of the Catholic Church. The evidence disclosed is damning and, even if you are unable to accept Pell’s guilt in respect of direct sexual abuse, his complicity in the wider cover up is simply appalling. The author does a good job of explaining evidence and describing sources without slipping into “trauma porn.” I felt it was a balanced effort. The narration has a very journalistic rhythm and tone, which is not surprising, but am not sure it is the best approach for an audiobook.

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The full story

Listening to this book was a harrowing experience, but I am glad of it. Stories of clergy abuse and about Ballarat have been part of the back drop of my life in Melbourne for years, but as an atheist living in secular circles it was never a focus. The allegations against Pell changed that and this book is a thorough and painstakingly researched account of Pell’s life. More importantly however, Cardinal is a reminder of how power corrupts; and a reminder of the responsibility of every citizen to protect children, challenge authority and to look after each other.

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Empathic and insightful. A fine piece of writing

Milligan’s storytelling and investigative journalism is seconded only by her empathy and warmth in this must-read look at what is to be the most significant issue of our time.
It is an impressive balancing act as she brings the anguish of victims and families to life while never starting from her rigorous, evidence-based reporting.

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I was so naive

Very confronting. I recall when Pell was sentenced and saying to a friend "I hope they got this right". After three chapters i was so glad to see that Pell was locked up. Once I started a chapter i found myself driving aimlessly until the end. Great journalism showing the utmost respect for the victims. Well worth a read.

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Fascinating, well researched

Fantasticly well researched and read. A great resource for media students too. Great stuff.

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A MUST READ

A book at all people should read. It's written beautifully, with honesty and integrity.

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The hypocrisy of the church.

Well researched and written look forward the the author investigating another high profile priest who took the kids no one else would with great fan fare but would quietly dump them back onto dentin on the quiet of they were to much

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Shame shame shameful

As I was from Inglewood and met and have encountered this horrible priest and have had friends whom were not included in this book, just shows you how many ppl survived this priests pool room and alter boys storyline.
As for Pells lies for so many year may he rest in hell. And why is he not in the mainstream of the jail. This is so still looking after him. Put him amongst the prisoners and show him the life that many of his victims felt on a daily basic. There has to be another book to cover the victims and the parents of these victims. Maybe as a podcast interview read book. Thank you for writing this book.

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4 people found this helpful