In 1910, the United Kingdom is in turmoil. King Edward dies after only nine years on the throne. The social class system that upheld British society for centuries is being chipped away by social, political, and economic unrest across the Empire. Amidst this backdrop, Reverend Leander Norris is accused of sodomy. After discovering his own self-worth and the meaning of unconditional love, Leander finds the courage to stand up for what he believes is right and pleads "not guilty" to the charges.<br><br>Throughout the trial, Leander's past is revealed, including the temptations that bring the accusations against him. By the end of the trial, Leander is once again reunited with a romantic interest from the past. But it may be too late to rekindle any love that remains, given the circumstances of the era and Leander's likely sentence.<br><br>Love is greater than hope or faith, but can Leander convince a jury that the love he shares with another man is natural?

Disappear with Me

After a moment, Father John asked quietly, “So what does this say to your heart?”


“Did you have me read this because I’m being like Joshua, afraid to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after forty years of wandering in the desert?”


“Yes. You might be nervous now because you see all that I do around here. You have many gifts as well, and I know one day you will be a fine leader of a parish church.”


Father John moved closer and put his hands on Leander’s shoulders. He looked him square in the eye. “You have so much love to give, Leander. Right now, the Lord and I probably have more faith in you than you do yourself. If you can’t believe in yourself right now, count on the confidence I have in you.” Father John hugged him, a rare event.


Later that day, Father John went to check on him. Leander was packing for the fall term, but also a summer holiday on the Melvin estate before the term started. Father John carried a package in his hands.


Chapter 8