Amos Puckett grows up to be a missionary in late 19th century Cuba, a Spanish Colony. Unconsciously following in his father's footsteps, he encounters a series of potentially fatal experiences and learns to use a natural gift, an interest in herbal medicine, to heal the bodies and souls of others. His defeats teach him about winning and losing, and about his faith. His wins teach him that God is in control. At times, he feels he is the biggest sinner of all. At times, he hangs by a thread and prays for an end to the diseases that cause his people, including his loved ones to suffer and die.