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The novel

Rila’s Tale — Momtchil Dimitrov
A monastery. A mountain. A secret worth a thousand years of silence.
Real roads. Real people. Real history. And a drop or two of the impossible.
For readers of The Alchemist and The Name of the Rose.

BULGARIA · SPRING 1938

HISTORICAL FICTION WITH MAGICAL REALISM

Rila’s Tale

Guardians of the Moonlit Vines

In the spring of 1938, a monk at Rila Monastery breaks his vow of obedience to follow a phrase he cannot forget—the vine from Driska. An unlikely fellowship gathers along the way. But a man who has learned to turn everything into property is searching for the same secret.

A novel of memory, faith, and responsibility for what we inherit. Real places and family memories meet imagined characters, events, and miracles.

THE FOUNDING READERS

Take the first watch.

A signed, numbered Founder's copy of the English edition, a crown-cross-vine bookmark, and a personal note from me. Fifty of them, for the readers who came before the book did.

An Evening with Rila’s Tale

The same collection, plus a gathering with me: a reading, a conversation, a Bulgarian table, and a guided tasting. I’ll announce dates and places once I know how many of you would like to join me.

Please leave your details and I’ll contact you when prices and dates are set.

Wherever you are, ask. I'll confirm delivery and cost before anything is paid.

What shall I set aside for you?

Choose either or both.

BOOK CLUBS

Give the story a place at the table.

A reading guide, twelve discussion questions, and an invitation to bring the author into the conversation.

Open the book club page ↗