Review: 'For Love' Wraps Up Robin Reardon's Queer 'Blessed Be' Trilogy with Tenderness, Passion

Considering the time of year, ghosts are a popular subject, and it would come as no major surprise to cross paths with one. But while the sight of a trick-or-treater dressed as Casper will likely bring a smile to your face, the same cannot always be said of the ghosts of one's past.

Spencer Hill, the narrator of "For Love," the final entry in the captivating "Blessed Be" trilogy from author Robin Reardon, was introduced in the first book, "For Love of God," as a divinity student from Manhattan during the early 1980s, where he meets Donald Rainey, an aspiring actor. Within a short period of time, the sexually confused Spencer falls head over heels for Donald, tries to forge a relationship with a woman, loses his mother to a tragic accident, and decides the Episcopalian church may not be the right fit for him.

As the end of the decade approaches in "For Love," Spencer is the out, proud Unitarian minister of Assisi, a small Vermont town, having achieved local hero status for resolving a long-held feud between the village residents and an interwoven community of Pagans. While Spencer enjoys a mostly quiet life with his dog, Klondike, his past still haunts him, starting with a surprising discovery of profoundly passionate love letters written by his parents, and his continual concern for Marshall, a friend and former member of his church who abruptly fled Assisi. But perhaps most significantly, Donald resurfaces – with a new beau in tow.

The "Blessed Be" series wouldn't be so enjoyable if Spencer wasn't so likable, and his benevolence and fortitude are again at the forefront in "For Love." He takes pleasure in his no-strings-attached arrangement with polyamorous Adam, yet it's obvious Spencer wants to share his entire life with someone, and Donald's presence rekindles feelings from long ago. Nevertheless, Spencer's personal happiness and safety always play second fiddle to the wellbeing of his parishioners, particularly when he makes the acquaintance of Kira, a young transgender woman, whose family refuses to accept her as female.

With Spencer, Reardon tenderly yet categorically reminds the reader that even an esteemed, compassionate theologian, held in high regard for offering guidance and acceptance, has his own physical and emotional needs and vulnerabilities, just like the rest of us. His overlapping personal and professional timelines of discovery examine a multitude of weighty issues and emotions, including sexual and gender identity, organized religion and alternative belief systems, conversion therapy and cult practices, and the stages of grief and healing from loss.

The author also dutifully illustrates how the ordinary is truly extraordinary, with what one assumes (wrongly) would be the simple, uneventful goings-on of a small town, as well as the inherent beauty, described in exquisite, fastidious detail, of the setting and nature surrounding it, as though the reader were an active participant.

The entire "Blessed Be" series is worthwhile, and provides a perceptive, comprehensive portrait of Spencer's spiritual journey. On its own, "For Love" is an enticing, insightful read, complete with colorful characters, an engrossing storyline, and an admirable narrator. As satisfied as I am (and you will be) with the conclusion, I selfishly hope this won't be the last we hear about Spencer.

"For Love" is available now.