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

The funeral procession into the church was somber. He followed the closed casket dressed in his finest robes, the ones he usually reserved for the visiting church dignitaries or government officials. There were some hymns and some people from the church spoke about Emil’s life. Then it was his turn. He stood to face the full sanctuary of people.


Leander read the scripture from Psalm 34 that was posted on the wall. He realized Emil would never post the weekly scripture or the hymns for him again.


“The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all. This is the word of God.”


“Thanks be to God.” Voices rose in unison in the reverent space.


He allowed the following silence to comfort himself and the others.


Chapter 44