Review of Can I Be Frank?

[Sarah Sonbol]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Can I Be Frank?" by Rob Wyatt.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Father Francis, or Frank as he prefers, is a young British Catholic priest. Feeling proud when he was unexpectedly offered his own parish in Central Florida, he travels – for the first time in his life – to the United States. Being as green as grass, Frank faces a lot of awkward moments at the airport and upon arrival at his parish. Marked differences in American English, culture, food, and even the weather make it more challenging for Frank to adapt.

Despite his apparent naivety, Frank genuinely tries to preach the word of God and be there for his parishioners. However, his major problems only started after purchasing an old car. Unintentionally, he finds that he has lost a major benefactor to his parish and the diocese. Not only does his parish seem to be facing bankruptcy but also his moral credibility as a priest is being endangered by incredulous rumors. With the flimsy resources available and with the collaboration of a few friends, Frank also feels responsible for helping immigrant workers facing inhumane living conditions.

Can I Be Frank? is a novel with a great sense of humor written by Rob Wyatt. The novel shows how politics can be mingled with religious issues, and how the church itself can sometimes be under the grip of conceited hypocrites. Will Frank be able to face all unexpected challenges? Will the diocese get involved and come to the rescue?

Although the pace in the first chapters was slow, I enjoyed reading them. As I have been used to traveling since I was a kid, I can recall many observations of first-time travelers. Frank’s encounters at the airport were genuinely funny and enjoyable. His unfamiliarity with customs, signs, luggage trolleys, and even having a gigantic suitcase are all typical for someone moving to a different country for the first time.

I appreciated the fact that the novel became a bit adventurous at the end, and I also liked how it ended. The use of relevant scriptures at the beginning of each chapter was really smart. Not being a Christian myself, it was entertaining to have a look inside the Catholic church, although I am not sure how accurate it is.

Although I am not used to this type of reading, I had a great time reading it. It is humorous with a little bit of adventure. It is also professionally edited. Therefore, I think it deserves four out of four.

Despite being centered on the Catholic church and a Catholic priest, anybody can enjoy reading the book. Those who want a light novel with a sense of humor will find it worth reading.

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Can I Be Frank?
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[NetMassimo]

Stories of priests involved in mysteries are a classic, I see the author included current topics such as migrants and added a lot of humor. Thank you for your great review!

[Sarah Sonbol]

Thanks for your appreciation.

[MsH2k]

This sounds like a light and enjoyable read. I was even picturing it as a movie as I read your review.
Thank you for your recommendation.

[J Edwards]

It looks like I would enjoy this book since as you mention, it is humourous and also because it is a blend of politics and religion, all aspects that fascinates me. Thanks for your excellent review.

[Sarah Sonbol]

This sounds like a light and enjoyable read. I was even picturing it as a movie as I read your review.
Thank you for your recommendation.

You are welcome. Yes, I think it could turn out into an enjoyable movie.

[Sarah Sonbol]

It looks like I would enjoy this book since as you mention, it is humourous and also because it is a blend of politics and religion, all aspects that fascinates me. Thanks for your excellent review.

You are welcome. Thanks for stopping by and commenting. Glad that you liked the review.