First published 1220
Prince Josaphat lives trapped in opulent chambers, knowing nothing of pain or death. His father King Avenir built this gilded prison after astrologers warned that the prince would abandon their pagan beliefs for Christianity. The king's plan works until the hermit Barlaam slips past the guards. Through stories and teachings, Barlaam awakens Josaphat to Christian faith. The prince converts, shattering his relationship with his father. Avenir wages a desperate campaign to win back his son's loyalty and return him to the old ways. Their conflict escalates as the king tries every method to break Josaphat's newfound devotion. Eventually, Avenir himself converts to the faith he once fought. When the king dies, Josaphat faces an impossible choice between crown and calling. He renounces his throne and follows Barlaam into the wilderness to live as a hermit. This medieval tale pits a father's protective love against his son's spiritual awakening.
Genres: christian-fiction, historical-fiction
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, faith-vs-duty
Period: Medieval
224 pages · Paperback · Penguin Publishing Group