3 Review(s)

The story revolves around the character of Sister Paul, a young nun who works as a hospital nurse in San Francisco. She is known for her dedication and selflessness in caring for the sick and needy. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she inadvertently becomes involved in a complex mystery and a love affair with a wealthy man, Philip Saltonstall.One of the central themes of the novel is the clash between Sister Paul's devotion to her religious vocation and her growing romantic feelings for Philip Saltonstall. The novel explores the tensions between duty, desire, and societal expectations, particularly for women in the early 20th century.Miriam Michelson's novel also delves into issues of class and social inequality, as Sister Paul's interactions with Philip Saltonstall and his world reveal stark differences in privilege and power."In the Bishop's Carriage" was praised for its feminist themes and its portrayal of a strong, independent female protagonist who grapples with complex choices. The novel reflects the changing social and cultural landscape of the Progressive Era in the United States when women's roles and expectations were being redefined.Miriam Michelson was a contemporary of other notable American female writers of the time, such as Charlotte Perkins Gilman and Edith Wharton, who also addressed issues of gender and society in their works. "In the Bishop's Carriage" is considered one of Michelson's most significant literary achievements and remains a part of the broader literary and cultural history of early 20th-century America.