For those who crave both thrilling adventure and heartwarming romance, the genre of chivalric romance delivers. This list presents the top 5 best chivalric romance novels that masterfully blend the excitement of knightly deeds with the tender emotions of burgeoning love, creating unforgettable stories of courage and affection. Let’s discover right now!
1. The Conqueror (de Warenne Dynasty #1) by Brenda Joyce
William de Warenne, a Norman nobleman, was a close ally and cousin of William the Conqueror. He played a pivotal role in supporting the Conqueror’s rise to power and participated in the Battle of Hastings in 1066. As a reward for his loyalty and military prowess, William de Warenne was granted extensive lands in England, becoming one of the largest landholders in the country by the time of the Domesday Book in 1086. His holdings spanned across several counties, including Yorkshire and Sussex.
In historical fiction, characters like Rolfe de Warenne may be depicted in romantic novels set in the post-Norman Conquest era. However, it’s essential to distinguish between historical figures and fictional characters. The actual William de Warenne was a significant figure in Norman England, known for his military leadership and strategic landholdings.
2. Katherine by Anya Seton
Next, one of the best chivalric romance novels of all time is Katherine by Anya Seton. John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, was the fourth son of King Edward III and one of the most influential figures in 14th-century England. Known for his immense wealth and political power, he played a key role in military campaigns, governance, and the turbulent politics of his nephew Richard II’s reign. Despite marrying three times, the great love of his life was Katherine Swynford, who began as his mistress during his second marriage and eventually became his third wife. Their decades-long romance, marked by passion and resilience, is often likened to epic love stories such as Gone with the Wind.
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3. Uncommon Vows (Bride Trilogy #0.5) by Mary Jo Putney
John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, was the fourth son of King Edward III and one of the most influential figures in 14th-century England. Known for his immense wealth and political power, he played a key role in military campaigns, governance, and the turbulent politics of his nephew Richard II’s reign. Despite marrying three times, the great love of his life was Katherine Swynford, who began as his mistress during his second marriage and eventually became his third wife. Their decades-long romance, marked by passion and resilience, is often likened to epic love stories such as Gone with the Wind.
4. The Conqueror by Georgette Heyer
Much like Sharon Kay Penman’s works, The Conqueror leans more toward historical fiction than the historical romance Georgette Heyer is typically known for. This book serves as a biography of William the Conqueror, offering a detailed account of his life. While some sections can feel dry, it features an extraordinary chapter on his unconventional romance with Matilda of Flanders.
William and Matilda are one of history’s most fascinating medieval couples. Their courtship defied norms, yet historical evidence suggests a deep and genuine love between them. Their story adds a compelling layer to William’s legacy, blending political ambition with personal devotion.
5. Flame in the Mist (Flame in the Mist #1) by Renee Ahdieh
Flame in the Mist is the final name in our list of the best chivalric romance novels. The sole YA entry on this list, this story follows Mariko, the only daughter of a samurai, who is resigned to a future of marriage despite being as skilled as her twin brother, Kenshin. When her convoy is ambushed by the Black Clan, their rivals, she disguises herself as a boy to infiltrate their ranks and seek revenge. Set in feudal Japan during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), the novel blends action and intrigue with a richly historical backdrop.