Quite by accident, Meggie Dawson stumbles across an amazing stick as a child, an intriguing object that, all her life, often intervenes on her behalf, pointing her in the right direction. She is desperately in love with her stepbrother, Josh Hawkins, no relation, and he loves her too. But feeling a call from God, he leaves their Connecticut home and becomes a priest, joins the Jesuits, and is sent to Africa as a missionary. Meanwhile, Meggie, although heartbroken, marries Josh's best friend, Ben Brown; has three children; and is reasonably happy. Until Josh, finally realizing he can't change the world, leaves the priesthood after twenty-five years and goes home, hoping to return to the arms of Meggie, who is sorely tempted. It is an absorbing tale of faith and love, with more than a touch of magic.