Through biography, history, theology and courtroom drama, this book recounts the
quintessential conflict between an American theologian and the Vatican. The Curran case framed
an era, from 1965 to 1990, and left behind unresolved questions about authority and freedom in the
Catholic Church today.

Using the fast-paced narrative of a journalist, the author covers issues such as the life and times of
Charles Curran, moral theology, Catholic higher education, academic freedom and finally the
unprecedented trial that brought cardinals and theologians to the witness stand.