The Three Cities Trilogy

'The Three Cities Trilogy' was published in 1894-1897 and appeared in three parts - Lourdes, Rome and Paris. The novels represent the adventures and experiences of Abbe Pierre Froment, the doubting Catholic priest who goes to Lourdes hoping to regain faith. Through the three parts Zola carries the themes of the need of faith, the suffering in the world, the politicisation of social issues, the cause of anarchist movements.
The monumental naturalistic work gives a historical overview of life in France and the rest of Europe towards the end of the nineteenth century, so you have a great opportunity to enjoy it!