Are there any limits to what one man will endure for his true love?
The Legend of Valentine by Sheldon Collins is an epic tale of love, war, faith and rebellion. Against the backdrop of an empire in chaos — Rome, 268 A.D. — this gripping saga invites readers into a world where love defies all odds, heroes rise from the shadows and the undying spirit of hope shines through the darkest times.
As Valentine’s covert acts of defiance grow bolder, he challenges the tyrannical order, planting the seeds for a celebration of love that will echo through the ages — becoming the foundation of what we now cherish as Valentine’s Day.
The author recently let us in on the unique nature of this historical novel.
Q: Your book connects the legend of Valentine to the holiday we celebrate today. How much creative liberty did you take in shaping this origin story, and how does it align with the traditions we know?
A: The Legend of Valentine draws from historical accounts while reimagining Valentine’s life to reflect the love and devotion we celebrate today. I blended historical detail with timeless traditions, capturing his courage and compassion. While the exact origins of Valentine’s Day remain mysterious, my goal was to craft a narrative that feels authentic to its era and honors Valentine’s legacy, offering a fresh perspective on how his life might have inspired this enduring celebration.
Q: What inspired you to set Valentine’s story during the reign of a ruthless emperor in 268 A.D.? How much of the tale is based on historical accounts versus creative invention?
A: The Legend of Valentine begins during Emperor Gallienus’s reign and transitions into Emperor Claudius II’s rule, both periods of political and religious upheaval. This turbulent backdrop provided the ideal setting to explore themes of love, conviction, and defiance. Grounded in historical events and figures, the story uses creative invention to fill in the gaps, balancing authenticity with a compelling narrative.
Q: Valentine’s clandestine acts of marrying lovers in defiance of imperial decrees are central to the plot. How did you approach intertwining love as both a personal and political act of rebellion?
A: In The Legend of Valentine, love transcends personal connection to become an act of rebellion. Valentine’s secret marriages symbolize his unwavering commitment to connection and faith, challenging imperial control over personal freedoms. I aimed to show how love — whether romantic, familial or sacrificial — can be a profound statement in a world dominated by fear. Valentine’s courage gave love a deeper purpose, transforming it into a force for resistance and change.
Q: Valentine’s journey from warrior to uniter of lovers is transformative. What were the key moments or challenges in crafting his transition?
A: Valentine’s transformation stemmed from his inner struggles and the turmoil of a divided empire. Key moments included his disillusionment with the violence of war and his realization that true strength lies in compassion and unity. Balancing his warrior past with his role as a uniter of lovers required showing how faith, personal loss, and those he helped shaped his journey. Each challenge deepened his resolve, turning him into a symbol of hope and love in a fractured world.
Q: The story explores the tension between personal faith and the oppressive forces of the empire. How did you navigate portraying these themes in a way that resonates with modern readers while staying true to the historical setting?
A: I explored the universal struggle between personal conviction and systemic oppression. Grounded in the historical realities of 3rd-century Rome — its politics, religious persecution, and cultural divides — the story connects with modern readers through themes of freedom, resisting injustice, and the power of love and faith to inspire change. Balancing historical accuracy with emotional depth was key to ensuring the story reflects its era while resonating with contemporary struggles.
Q: What challenges did you face in building a romance between Valentine and Agatha that feels both eternal and authentic within the constraints of the period?
A: Crafting the romance between Valentine and Agatha meant honoring the historical setting while creating a timeless bond. Agatha’s blindness added depth, emphasizing a spiritual connection over physical attraction — a theme central to the legend. Their relationship had to overcome societal constraints and hardships of the time. By focusing on their shared courage, faith, and compassion, I portrayed a bond that transcended their challenges, becoming a testament to the enduring power of connection and devotion.
Q: Amid the backdrop of tyranny and turmoil, you weave themes of love, hope, and resistance. What do you hope readers take away from Valentine’s story?
A: I hope readers leave The Legend of Valentine inspired by the transformative power of love — one that defies oppression, unites people and inspires courage. Valentine’s story shows that even in the darkest times, hope can thrive through compassion and resistance against tyranny. It’s a testament to standing by one’s convictions and fighting for faith, freedom and connection. Ultimately, I want readers to see that the human spirit is resilient and that love, in all its forms, is the greatest force for change and unity.
The Legend of Valentine in available for purchase on Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.
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