This humorous novel follows a young, English, Catholic priest to his first parish in America. Father Francis discovers that occasional attendance at church youth clubs, years of study at a seminary, and a love of The Dukes of Hazzard television show, have done little to prepare him for his new life. Women appear to view his vow of chastity merely as a challenge, and Gene Charmois, local bigwig and bullyboy, simply wants to add Frank to his portfolio. Despite the advice of Father William, the wisecracking Vicar General (and sometimes because of it), Frank unwittingly makes an enemy of Gene Charmois. The young priest becomes the subject of disturbing, if unfounded rumours, and soon finds himself without income, a congregation, or the support of his diocese.
With the help of his parish administrator, an atheistic doctor, and a local judge-cum-secondhand car dealer, Frank uncovers distinctly dodgy, dangerous and illegal goings-on down on the farm—Gene Charmois’ farm. What starts out as a mission of mercy to rescue a group of exploited migrant workers, turns into a major government investigation.
With the help of his parish administrator, an atheistic doctor, and a local judge-cum-secondhand car dealer, Frank uncovers distinctly dodgy, dangerous and illegal goings-on down on the farm—Gene Charmois’ farm. What starts out as a mission of mercy to rescue a group of exploited migrant workers, turns into a major government investigation.
