The Legend of Valentine, Author Interview by Sheldon Collins

Rome, 268 AD
In an age of tyranny and turmoil, an eternal love story ignites a revolution.

Valentine, a once-fearsome warrior reborn from the brink of death, sheds his violent past for a new destiny inspired by his blind lover, Agatha. Amidst the ruthless rule of a merciless emperor, Valentine undertakes a clandestine mission: to unite lovers in secret ceremonies, defying imperial decrees that threaten to obliterate the Christian faith.

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 Legend of Valentine is an epic tale of love, war, faith, and rebellion. Against the backdrop of an empire in chaos, 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.

Interview with Sheldon

WHY ANCIENT ROME?
The Roman Empire is a treasure trove for storytelling. The period of history in which The Legend of Valentine is set is nothing short of extraordinary. The Romans were ahead of their time, both in sophistication and innovation, and their empire was one of the largest to ever span the globe. Unlike many other settings where authors must invent a backdrop to enhance the narrative, Ancient Rome offers a world so rich and vibrant that it practically begs to be the stage for a thrilling tale.

WHY HISTORICAL FICTION ROMANCE?
I’ve always been captivated by stories rooted in history, and with The Legend of Valentine, the romantic element was impossible to ignore. It was the perfect blend of my passion for period-based narratives and the compelling nature of the material that drew me deeper into this genre. After all, you can’t tell the story of the origins of Valentine’s Day without weaving together both history and a powerful love story.

HOW DID YOU BALANCE THE HISTORY WITH THE LEGEND?
I delved deeply into the various narratives surrounding Valentine’s origins, conducting extensive research and consulting with historians from both the U.S. and Italy to discern the historically accurate elements from the embellished legends that have evolved over time. Like many historical fiction authors, I encountered challenging decisions in the writing process. On one hand, I strove to honor Roman history accurately, anchoring key story elements in verifiable facts—a commitment I believe will enrich the reader’s experience. On the other hand, the legendary aspects of Valentine’s life, though not always historically substantiated, offer a captivating exploration of the timeless themes of love and sacrifice. These elements, passed down through literary fiction and oral tradition, although less factual, provide a rich tapestry that enhances the narrative. The final composition is a carefully crafted blend of history, legend, and creative embellishment, designed to engage and resonate with fans of the genre.

HOW DID YOU APPROACH INTERTWINING LOVE AS BOTH A PERSONAL AND POLITICAL ACT OF REBELLION?
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.

WHAT CHALLENGES DID YOU FACE IN BUILDING A ROMANCE THAT FEELS ETERNAL AND AUTHENTIC?
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.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE READERS TAKE AWAY FROM VALENTINE’S STORY?
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.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Legend-Valentine-Ancient-Historical-Revolution/dp/B0DQHSS1FQ
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-legend-of-valentine-sheldon-collins/1146703059

Meet Sheldon Collins

Sheldon Collins is a distinguished storyteller whose career began in Hollywood as a screenwriter and director. His films, celebrated for their compelling narratives and rich character development, have been featured on premium television and at numerous film festivals—earning critical acclaim and a host of awards. The Legend of Valentine marks Collins’s debut novel, for which he also co-directed the multi-cast audiobook edition.

Residing in California with his wife and daughter, Collins draws ongoing inspiration from the breathtaking natural landscapes. Outside of writing and directing, he enjoys immersing himself in music, podcasts, and audiobooks, and actively participates in outdoor activities like biking, hiking, surfing, and skiing. His commitment to family and friends remains a cornerstone of his life.

Educated at UC Berkeley with a Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric and holding a Master of Fine Arts in Directing from the prestigious American Film Institute, Collins brings a unique blend of narrative expertise and directorial acumen to his literary endeavors.