Chapter 1 Summary

The Color of Blood is a novel about the religious leader of a former Soviet Bloc country, Cardinal Stephen Bem, who is struggling to walk the line between faith and government, and spirituality and safety. Some of his own bishops and trusted advisors feel that he is too loyal to the oppressive government, and have plotted to kidnap him and use an upcoming religious celebration to call the people to revolt against the state. Cardinal Bem is able to uncover the plans, expose the bishops, and prevent the planned revolt, but a fanatic Catholic assassinates him just moments after he saves the day. The book is an exploration of the themes of power, faith, trust, and loyalty.

Cardinal Stephen Bem is being driven home from a meeting by his driver and attendant, Joseph, when he sees a car next to him with the...