Set in the mid-19th century. At the center of the novel are two French Jesuits - Bishop Jean Marie Latour and his friend Father Joseph Vaillant - two celibate men who devote their lives to bring religious faith and comfort to Mexican-Americans in the newly acquired U.S. territory of New Mexico. Cather presents them as strong, committed men, willing to put up with great hardships in doing what they saw as God’s work and sharing their faith. Flawed, like all of us are, but good at heart.

This captivating narrative celebrates the natural beauty of New Mexico and the importance of the adventures of these two French Catholic missionaries in contributing to the social and spiritual life of the area in a meaningful way. Often considered Cather's masterpiece...