For those of you who have now read the book ‘The Dictator Pope’, its contents will have come as no surprise.

It has been apparent for some time that Francis is not the benign, jocular reformer portrayed in the secular press.  That he has failed to deliver on reforms of any kind, and that his pontificate is largely characterised by cronyism and indulgence (though hardly news) is here detailed with forensic accuracy.

High-handed, dictatorial and foul-mouthed, this portrait of the Holy Father is, however, shocking in its frankness, and its acknowledgement of the climate of fear which surrounds him.

This is a man who counsels openness and dialogue, but who manipulates synods and refuses to answer straight questions or give audiences to his highest officials.

Eyes turn naturally and inevitably to the next conclave and the next Pope.