Death Comes for the Archbishop

by Willa Cather
Death Comes for the Archbishop cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Historical Fiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £16.99
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  • ID: 8479
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-31
  • ISBN: 9781427074478
  • Publisher: ReadHowYouWant.com
  • Published: 1965-01-01
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

Death Comes for the Archbishop is a classic novel by Willa Cather that tells the story of two French missionaries, Father Jean Marie Latour and Father Joseph Vaillant, who are sent to New Mexico in the mid-19th century to establish a Catholic diocese. The novel explores their deep friendship, their struggles with the harsh landscape and the cultural differences they encounter, and their unwavering faith in the face of adversity. /n/n The book is renowned for its lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of the American Southwest, as well as its insightful portrayal of the complexities of religious faith and the human spirit. It is a timeless story that continues to resonate with readers today.

Reviews
Reddit - Recommended Books · Reddit User · 2023-03-10
captivating 4.50

The language is spellbinding and the Arizona setting is portrayed with beautiful detail. The story is captivating and leaves a lasting impression.

A Reddit user shares their enthusiasm for the novel, highlighting its spellbinding language and the vivid portrayal of the Arizona setting. They find the story captivating and note that it leaves a lasting impression. The user appreciates the beauty of the prose and the way it brings the setting to life. This makes the reading experience both immersive and memorable, making it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    The language is spellbinding, the Arizona setting is portrayed with an amazing beauty.

    The story is captivating and leaves a lasting impression.

    The prose brings the setting to life in a way that is both immersive and memorable.

She Reads Novels · 2017-12-26
engaging 4.00

The relationship between Bishop Latour and Father Vaillant is the novel's standout feature. The characters are based on real historical figures, adding authenticity to the story.

The reviewer from She Reads Novels praises the dynamic between Bishop Latour and Father Vaillant, noting it as the most compelling aspect of the novel. This relationship is richly developed and adds depth to the narrative. The fact that these characters are based on real historical figures enhances the story's authenticity and makes it more engaging. The reviewer appreciates the historical context and the way it enriches the overall reading experience.

Quick quotes

    My favourite aspect of the novel is the relationship between Bishop Latour and Father Vaillant.

    The characters are based on real historical figures, adding authenticity to the story.

    The dynamic between the two main characters is richly developed and adds depth to the narrative.

The Pump Don’t Work · Patrick Treardon · 2017-01-05
inspiring 3.50

The characters are portrayed as strong and committed, enduring hardships in their religious duties. The narrative is flawed, much like the individuals it depicts.

Patrick Treardon highlights the resilience and dedication of the main characters, who face immense challenges in their mission. He appreciates the depth of their commitment but also notes the flaws that make them relatable. The story is a testament to their faith and perseverance, offering a nuanced look at their journey. However, the narrative's imperfections add a layer of realism that resonates with readers.

Quick quotes

    Cather presents them as strong, committed men, willing to put up with great hardships in doing what they saw as God's work.

    Flawed, like all of us.

    The narrative is a testament to their faith and perseverance.

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