I've always loved this painting. My mom has always loved this painting. And honestly, I've never met anyone who--when this painting was mentioned--didn't love it.
The secrecy, the longing, the melancholy tenderness... It's all so ✨romantic✨. Until it isn't.
(Spoiler alert: He dies, her brothers die, she dies...)
Hellelil and Hildebrand own perhaps one of the most tragic medieval love stories. She falls in love with her personal guard, but they are forbidden to be together. As such, her father orders her brothers to kill him. In the end, only one brother remains standing, and he sells Hellelil in exchange for a church bell. The bell rings, and her life comes to an end.
This painting is meant to reflect that final tender moment before Hildebrand chooses to meet his fate head on. But... what if he hadn't lost the fight? What if Hellelil and Hildebrand were able to have their happily ever after?
If you're someone who (like me) wishes their story hadn't ended so tragically, here are some book recommendations which might lift your tender-hearted spirits:
(Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links.)
by Tamara Leigh
AKA “Age of Faith: Book 1”
Set in 1100s England, amongst the battle for the throne between two brothers, a woman disguises herself as a squire and seeks to avenge her own brother’s murder. The man she identifies as her enemy is Baron Wulfrith, renowned trainer of knights. He allows no women within his training walls, but what happens when he discovers that his new squire is secretly Lady Annyn Bretanne? And that she wishes him dead?
Plot twist after plot twist, they must fight each other, fight fears and expectations, and decide whether or not to fight for love.
by Jennifer Roberson
AKA “A Novel of Sherwood: Book 1”
As you might’ve guessed by the title, this is a tale of Maid Marion and Sir Robert of Locksley (Robin Hood). This version is praised for its deviation from legend and whimsy, aligning instead with a more historical portrayal of events (and love).
This is the first of two novels in Jennifer Roberson’s retelling of Marion, Robin Hood, and the beloved outlaws of Sherwood Forest, so be ready to continue the adventure in Lady of Sherwood.
by Irene Hannon
AKA “Guardians of Justice: Book #1”
For a modern take of our “Meeting on the Turret Stairs” vibe, this book might do the trick! U.S. Marshal Jake Taylor (our knight) is assigned protection detail for federal judge Liz Michaels (our forbidden maiden, who the knight doesn’t actually like a whole lot).
I know I threw a bit of joke in that previous sentence; however, this book handles heavy themes with high stakes. Her late husband was his best friend, and he's harbored negative feelings toward her regarding the death. But things begin to change when an unknown enemy wants Judge Michaels dead...
by Melanie Dickerson
AKA “A Dericott Tale: Book 1”
Set in 1300s England, this retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Wild Swans” follows a young woman named Delia who must free her brothers from King Richard II’s wrath. Their stepmother accuses them of treason and murder after their father’s death. But the man who arrests them, Sir Geoffery, cannot shake the dark feeling that injustice and treachery are the truth behind the charges.
Sir Geoffery is Captain of the guard and may be Delia’s only ally... but can she trust the man who imprisoned her brothers? And what happens when the action gives way to romance?
(This one is at the top of my own TBR...)
by Tessa Afshar
"The thrilling tale of a woman who feels she has no future but soon discovers the fate of nations may rest in her hands...
After a tragic accident changes the course of her life, Keren finds herself in a foreign country, charged with the mysterious task of teaching a shepherd boy how to become a lord... Jared cannot forgive Keren for the events prior. Still, he finds himself traveling over mountains to fetch her back to the safety of home... Love battles bitterness as they flee from the king’s agents, trying to save the boy who could one day deliver their people from captivity."
Being Biblical historical fiction, this one takes us to a different place in time entirely, while still giving us that longed-for, heavy conflict between duty and love.
by Sian Ann Bessey
“A beautiful tale filled with romance and history. Fans of medieval literature won't be able to put it down.” --Jennifer Moore, Author
In the Welsh rebellion of the 1400s, men fight for freedom and for love. Wales vs. England. Duty vs. Love.
Rooted in historical truth, this medieval romance unfolds between Rhys ap Tudor--returning to a Wales now ruled with an iron fist--and Lady Catrin Buckley, bound to another in a loveless betrothal.
For Lady Catrin, falling in love with the rugged Rhys ap Tudor comes almost instantly, though entirely unexpected. But to follow her heart means she must betray her loyalty to her English father and leave behind a rich life of comfort.
by Rachel Grow Law
This one is for the slow-burn girlies. It’s another fairytale retelling without magic, leaning toward historic truth instead (though fictionally, of course). Reviews compliment the historical research done for this Snow White-inspired romance, as well as its genuine villains, rich storytelling, and swoony huntsman MMC.
Based in 16th century Germany, Heart of Snow follows a sister determined to use her newfound position in society to free her captured brother. She turns to a huntsman’s page for help overcoming her shyness (to achieve her goal of navigating elite society) and, of course, these harmless and flirty lessons evolve into something more...
by K.D. Shade
Described as “YA Medieval Arthurian Fantasy Adventure” and “Perfect for readers who love hidden identities, slow-burn trust, and stubborn courage.”
This is a book that I’ve seen recommended time and time again in my reading groups. An heiress caught in the clutches of prophecy. A masked archer who may or may not be an ally. Enemies, choice, sacrifice... Dreamteller has as many reasons to read it as it has awards!
by Marcia Lynn McClure
This story follows a medieval princess secretly in love with a knight who she, of course, is unable to pursue. Her duty is to serve her kingdom, and she's always known that even her marriage would be used to that end. Royal existence demands sacrifice, including in the ways of love, and choices in marriage are limited to what’s best for the kingdom (if there is any choice at all).
But when war breaks amongst kingdoms, can a secret love survive the rubble, or will it be buried and forgotten?
I hope that you've found a new book or two (or nine!) to add to your reading wishlist!! 💖 If you've read any of the book listed above, please leave a comment and let me know what you thought of it. Also, if you've enjoyed this content, please share or re-pin, and follow me on Pinterest.
I hope to provide similar content in the future. Book recommendations, beloved quotes, romantically inspired look-books, and more!
💐🎀🥀 all things softly, gently romantic. glamorizing soft romance in every form--stories, spaces, and small, beautiful things. 💐🎀🥀
~M.E.
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