Jun 13, 20222 min read

Medieval Monday | A Love Affair with Medieval Romance

I’ve often been asked this question, “Why Medieval romance? Why not Regency, Victorian, or Western?” In truth, I love them all, but my heart belongs to one. It started when my fingers opened a book about the great Irish King, Brian Boru (941-1014A.D.). His story is legendary, especially with the people of Ireland. King Brian led the Irish to the peak of their Golden Age—from poetry, arts, saints, and scholars. A spark ignited within my soul for more.

I sought out tales of knights in shining armor and folk heroes, delving into a life teeming with richness, though at times harsh and violent. Yet, it wasn’t until I devoured the history of Brian Boru that I became immersed in medieval life. From there, I treasured tales of life in castles, traveling on horseback, studying foods and herbs. My list is endless and always growing on medieval ways. Yes, there are even days when I long to travel back in time and explore the history, lore, and beliefs.

When the time came to pen my own stories, it made sense for me to place them all in a medieval setting. One might say I live vicariously through my characters. I call this a love affair with all things medieval.

Another favorite story of mine is "Idyls of the King and other Poems" by Alfred Tennyson. This prompted me to seek out other tales of King Arthur and his knights. The edition below is dated 1903 and a treasured gem.