This novel takes place in 1773.  Three men, with good intentions, leave France for Annam in the Far East.  Their mission is to preach faith to the people in this land. 

The three men who will embark on this mission are Francois Gervaise, a painter; Pierre de Behaine, a priest and Henri Monage, a young runaway.  This journey turned out to be anything but easy.  Upon their arrival, they discover civil war, floods and famine. 

What do these three do now to reinvent their journey?

This novel is based loosely on the life of Pierre de Behaine, a legendary priest in Vietnamese history.  The author does an excellent job of blending history with the storyline.  He has also created some very unforgettable characters especially in Gervaise, the painter who is very intriguing.  Kien Nguyen has an elegant writing style and you will also enjoy reading  "The Tapestries".  This one is highly recommended.

REVIEWED BY NANCY EATON

DO NOT REPRINT WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE REVIEWER, NANCY EATON