This is an intense, dramatic and well written novel in which faith again (Heaven and Earth, The Little Valley of God, etc.) is an insistent theme. It concerns one mans search for Ardito, a priest who has lost his belief, and Arditos search for God-and it is told by means of letters, conversations and diaries. Ardito never comes on stage directly and this search-within-search technique adds enormous suspense and variety. The book begins when a writer who had known Ardito during the war, and believes him dead, learns that he is alive and has been an escaped prisoner of war, living in the woods, where he possibly performed a miracle. His diaries describe how he has taken a factory job-like other men- but has met Satan. The trail leads on to Mexico where again he has performed wonderful acts. The personality of Ardito, even at these removes, is extraordinary; he is a humble Everyman, lit in spite of himself by a Faith which is at its purest and most all-embracing. It is Arditos simplicity, moving through the electric air of Creed and Question, that gives the book its strong appeal which combines here with the storys passion, human values and drama. A choice for the audience of The Thirteenth Apostle and possibly a more deserving one.