A fugitive priest struggles to maintain his faith and perform his duties while being hunted by an anti-clerical regime in 1930s Mexico. Driven by a sense of duty despite his own moral failings, the protagonist, known as the 'whisky priest,' traverses the dangerous landscape of Tabasco to provide sacraments to the faithful. He faces relentless pursuit by a dedicated police lieutenant who views the church as a corrupting influence on the state. The narrative follows a third-person perspective that emphasizes the physical exhaustion and psychological isolation of the priest as he navigates a world where his very existence is considered a crime.

Discussion often centers on the complex portrayal of the protagonist, whose flaws and cowardice contrast sharply with his ultimate commitment to his vocation. Readers frequently highlight the stark, unforgiving atmosphere that permeates the narrative, effectively conveying the oppressive political climate of the setting. Critics often note the balance between the intense, suspenseful pursuit and the deeper philosophical inquiries regarding faith and human weakness. The work is widely recognized for its ability to humanize the struggle of belief in a hostile environment without resorting to simplistic moralizing.