The Gathering of Brother Hilarius

"The Gathering of Brother Hilarius" by Michael Fairless is a romance novel that explores the challenges faced by a young monk named Hilarius as he wrestles with his commitment to his religious life and his growing attraction to the world outside the monastery walls. Set during the time of the Black Death, Hilarius experiences a strong desire for worldly experiences as he stands at the monastery gates and longs for the nearby forest, resulting in tensions regarding his monastic duties. His path becomes even more complicated when he encounters a lively young dancer, opening his eyes to love and longing and making him question his sheltered understanding of the world. Guided by insightful conversations and the inspiring words he hears, Hilarius embarks on a journey to understand love, caught between his spiritual calling and his human desires, leading to a deep look at faith and affection during a period of upheaval.