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

“I brought you this. I hope you like it.” Father John put a gift on the desk. “I hope you will understand and forgive me. I truly only had your best interest in my heart.”


After Father John left the room, Leander collapsed on the floor. A few moments later, he took a deep breath and reached for the gift box. He opened the box and found a Bible inside. He lifted the book out and sat it on his lap. He laid his palm flat on the cool, supple leather. He ran his fingertips down the cover and allowed his index finger to linger across the embossed letters: Leander Norris. The pages fanned his face as he flipped through them. He stopped and opened the front cover to reveal the inscription.


Chapter 9