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De Russe Legacy #4
The White Lord of Wellesbourne
1485 A.D.
Adam Wellesbourne and his four sons - Matthew, Mark, Luke and John - comprise the most feared House in the service of Richard III. Adam’s eldest son, Matthew, has earned such an influential reputation that throughout England he is known as The White Lord of Wellesbourne.
Upon the eve of the Battle of Bosworth field, Matthew finds himself forced into a contract marriage that he has been avoiding for ten years. He has no desire to wed the Lady Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave, but his father is insistent. The lady comes with a dowry of 400 fighting men, most important in these warring times. But a strange thing happens to Matthew the moment he meets his future bride; he is actually attracted to her. The Lady Alixandrea is surprisingly beautiful, intelligent, and kind. But she is also unknowingly caught up in a deadly game of politics.
Suddenly, a simple marriage becomes a deadly happenstance. As forces for both King Richard and Henry Tudor build towards the battle that will decide the future of England, Matthew is distracted by the woman he never wanted to marry. In this world where the politics of rival men vying for the throne control the fortunes of a nation, The White Lord of Wellesbourne is torn between the unexpected life he never thought to have and the warring life that he’d always known to be.
Will lovely Alixandrea win him or will King Richard?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2006
414 people are currently reading
457 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Le Veque
325 books2,083 followersJuggernaut Indie author Kathryn Le Veque is a 'tour de force' in publishing.
Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.
Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.
Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.
Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
August 2, 2012
Kathryn Le Veque is fast becoming a favorite author of mine. This is the third book of hers that I've read, and they've all been solid four stars. She's a fine writer, and I love her romances. The heroes and heroines actually fall in love with each other, without misunderstandings, big secrets, or bratty, spoiled behavior. They talk to each other, and actually discuss their problems and misunderstandings like adults. The obstacles to their relationships come from external sources, not from the hero or heroines themselves. That's my favorite type of love story.
In brief, Alixandrea, the heroine, has been betrothed for more than half of her life to Matthew, the hero. They have never met, and he keeps delaying the marriage. She finally descends upon him to force his hand. Matthew and his powerful family are strong supporters of King Richard III, and Matthew is one of his top military advisors. Alixandrea also comes from a powerful family that supports Richard, hence the alliance. The two fall in love while the threat of war and political betrayal hang over them, and threaten to separate them. There are also many wonderful and vivid secondary characters, who enrich the story. Matthew has three brothers, and the relationship among the four of them, and their father, is very well done. Matthew's friendship with Gaston, another top military advisor to Richard, is also beautifully depicted, and is a pivotal part of the story of shifting loyalties and alliances.
Ms. Le Veque puts the historical in historical romance front and center. The book begins shortly before the Battle of Bosworth, and the reader is treated to the politics of the jockeying for support by Richard and Henry Tudor (later Henry VII), the rival claimant to the throne of England. Richard, and other powerful lords of the period, are believable characters in the book. For readers like me, who like well researched history and politics along with their romances, this is just about heaven to read. Also, the heroes and heroines in Ms. Le Veque's books are clearly the product of their times. They don't come across as 21st Century people dressed up in medieval costumes. But, most important, while the history is beautifully woven throughout the novel, the romance always remains the focal point of the story.
I would liked to have seen an author's note at the end. Obviously Richard III was a controversial figure, and has been interpreted in many different ways by both historians and novelists. It would have been interesting to learn about Ms. Le Veque's source materials, and why she chose to portray Richard III the way she did.
In brief, Alixandrea, the heroine, has been betrothed for more than half of her life to Matthew, the hero. They have never met, and he keeps delaying the marriage. She finally descends upon him to force his hand. Matthew and his powerful family are strong supporters of King Richard III, and Matthew is one of his top military advisors. Alixandrea also comes from a powerful family that supports Richard, hence the alliance. The two fall in love while the threat of war and political betrayal hang over them, and threaten to separate them. There are also many wonderful and vivid secondary characters, who enrich the story. Matthew has three brothers, and the relationship among the four of them, and their father, is very well done. Matthew's friendship with Gaston, another top military advisor to Richard, is also beautifully depicted, and is a pivotal part of the story of shifting loyalties and alliances.
Ms. Le Veque puts the historical in historical romance front and center. The book begins shortly before the Battle of Bosworth, and the reader is treated to the politics of the jockeying for support by Richard and Henry Tudor (later Henry VII), the rival claimant to the throne of England. Richard, and other powerful lords of the period, are believable characters in the book. For readers like me, who like well researched history and politics along with their romances, this is just about heaven to read. Also, the heroes and heroines in Ms. Le Veque's books are clearly the product of their times. They don't come across as 21st Century people dressed up in medieval costumes. But, most important, while the history is beautifully woven throughout the novel, the romance always remains the focal point of the story.
I would liked to have seen an author's note at the end. Obviously Richard III was a controversial figure, and has been interpreted in many different ways by both historians and novelists. It would have been interesting to learn about Ms. Le Veque's source materials, and why she chose to portray Richard III the way she did.
February 18, 2016
Matthew Wellesbourne has been engaged to Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave for 9 years. They have never met and this is a business/ contract type engagement. Alixandrea Uncle finally makes Matthew come up to agree to marry her immediately. Matthew has been somewhat vocal to his brothers about his upset with marring and when his brother meets Alixandrea at a Pub that she stop at on the way to the Castle tell her so. This does put Matthew and Alixandrea off each other for a little while but their attraction is something they cannot fight. Unknown to Alixandrea her Uncle has set up that once she marries Matthew the men she has brought with her will attack and kill her new husband. This starts their emotional love story.
June 17, 2017
wonderful, beautiful, amazing.....
July 3, 2012
Another lovely Medieval historical from Ms. Le Veque. How on earth had I missed this author in the past? She has managed to get me out of a year-long reading funk with two of her books in one week.
And up next? Yup, yet another of her stories. I'm hooked!
And up next? Yup, yet another of her stories. I'm hooked!
November 1, 2014
About the Story: On her way to meet her betrothed with her four hundred soldiers as part of her dowry, Lady Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave, needed to stop before she reached the castle. She had her men stop at a tavern very close to the castle itself to gather her wits and her ‘sloshing brains’ after nine days of riding a carriage with a bad axle and her driver’s inept ability to drive anyway that would make her more comfortable.
She had been betrothed to Matthew Wellesbourne for ten years. Her uncle, Howard Terrington, decided he had waited long enough. He would give Matthew Wellesbourne, The White Lord of Wellesbourne, no more time. He had to have access to Wellesbourne castle. Alixandrea had heard tales of The White Lord since childhood--a giant of a knight with a reputable reputation.
Being a beautiful well-spoken woman, she could not escape notice when she entered the tavern. She looked like an angel in the doorway of the tavern. Once in the tavern she was approached by a rather large man who offered to bring her refreshment. When she refused, he hardly believed it. All women were immediately enamored of him, wanting his company. Sir Luke introduced himself and conversationally introduced his brother, Matthew of Wellesbourne, who was sitting in the far corner of the tavern as being of ill-temper, ‘brooding like a bear’.
At this point, Alixandrea saw him for who he was, her betrothed.
Politely, she asks why he is unhappy and Sir Luke, drinking liberally, spills that he is unhappy about the impending marriage for he does not want to marry, so he came to the tavern to drown his sorrow in drink and wenches. Obviously Sir Luke’s tongue is quite lose with drink because he mentions that Matthew’s betrothed probably isn’t all that attractive, but she’s worth something for she’s bringing with her 400 fighters and a large dowry.
Slightly bemused, Alixandrea now knows that she must marry, but not with any merits she herself brings to the union. All her girlhood dreams are gone. Hers will be a marriage without respect, let alone love. She accepts this bit of news with head held high.
The scene that follows has Matthew crossing the room to meet her after he’s heard all the foolish remarks his brother has spoken. He sees her beautiful and soft-spoken, a woman he’s attracted to.
So many forces are afoot around this union that soon begin to materialize. Are Matthew and Alixandrea strong enough to combat them all?
My Thoughts: This book was everything I could want in a Medieval historical romance. The cadence of its sentences, along with the superb (and frankly, ravishing voice) delivery of narrator Brad Wills, transported me from now to then. From the outset I was engaged with the humorous scene where Luke tells Lady Alixandrea the woes of his brother and how utterly ashamed Luke became once he knew who he spoke with.
Kathryn Le Veque’s descriptive words of imagery set the scene of each act. I clearly smelled the putrid stench of the tavern as Lady Alixandrea walked through the doors, the dirt of the road that her maid kicked up while walking, the terror of a battle raging around her head and helpless for escape, of stables smelling of hay and urine. I was there. I saw it all.
It was a story of heightened tension in a gripping storyline erupting even before Matthew could take Lady Alixandrea to the castle. Their neighbor, a Tudor ally, attacked them, something Matthew knew would eventually happen, just not that day. Luckily, with the additional 400 fighters with him he fought well, even though the attack was a surprise. They were able to fight them off, but Luke, Matthew’s brother, was struck by an arrow. He had been guarding Alixandrea. I was ready to see the lady shot or White Lord injured. But we find that Lady Alixandrea is not only beautiful and as graceful as any queen, but quick-witted, intelligent and courageous besides.
We learn Matthew is not only a fighting knight, but also a compassionate son. For the last 12 years, since his mother had died, their father, also a knight, had never been exactly sane. Anything could set him off. Matthew had taken it upon himself to try to manage his environment so he would not go over the cliff into madness. He’d drink and talk of his lost lady love, how much misery life was without her and very often would try to kill himself.
From the first, I was caught in battle, intrigue and the wicked ways of greedy men. I was privy to how knights discuss strategy and warfare. I was party to reasons why men fight each other, why some men would follow Richard III and others Henry Tudor, how women could be used as pawns to barter.
I enjoyed the scenes where the four brothers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all knights, would work together to protect their own and their king, would discuss the great battle soon to be fought because it was evident something large was going to happen. When divisions were apparent among the brothers, it never interfered with how they pulled together. The author created a great story in the throws of history. Certainly, this would make a great film!
This story gave me a real sense of the peril people lived in during that time of history in England, with the constant wars. It was a gripping tension-filled read, further enhanced by the excellent performance of narrator Brad Wills. His voice for Matthew was perfect. It is a deep bass voice that only bespeaks the size of the man. I coward when he spoke and then he’d use his voice speaking words of respect and love to Lady Alixandrea which would melt my heart. But with such a huge, massive voice, he paradoxically spoke the dialog of Lady Alixandrea eloquently, befitting the woman. His voice for the lady’s maid, had a rather raucous pitch and volume much as I envision the non-nobility of that time period speaking. Brad Wills’ performance perfected a most perfect story. She's gained another besotted fan!
She had been betrothed to Matthew Wellesbourne for ten years. Her uncle, Howard Terrington, decided he had waited long enough. He would give Matthew Wellesbourne, The White Lord of Wellesbourne, no more time. He had to have access to Wellesbourne castle. Alixandrea had heard tales of The White Lord since childhood--a giant of a knight with a reputable reputation.
Being a beautiful well-spoken woman, she could not escape notice when she entered the tavern. She looked like an angel in the doorway of the tavern. Once in the tavern she was approached by a rather large man who offered to bring her refreshment. When she refused, he hardly believed it. All women were immediately enamored of him, wanting his company. Sir Luke introduced himself and conversationally introduced his brother, Matthew of Wellesbourne, who was sitting in the far corner of the tavern as being of ill-temper, ‘brooding like a bear’.
At this point, Alixandrea saw him for who he was, her betrothed.
Politely, she asks why he is unhappy and Sir Luke, drinking liberally, spills that he is unhappy about the impending marriage for he does not want to marry, so he came to the tavern to drown his sorrow in drink and wenches. Obviously Sir Luke’s tongue is quite lose with drink because he mentions that Matthew’s betrothed probably isn’t all that attractive, but she’s worth something for she’s bringing with her 400 fighters and a large dowry.
Slightly bemused, Alixandrea now knows that she must marry, but not with any merits she herself brings to the union. All her girlhood dreams are gone. Hers will be a marriage without respect, let alone love. She accepts this bit of news with head held high.
The scene that follows has Matthew crossing the room to meet her after he’s heard all the foolish remarks his brother has spoken. He sees her beautiful and soft-spoken, a woman he’s attracted to.
So many forces are afoot around this union that soon begin to materialize. Are Matthew and Alixandrea strong enough to combat them all?
My Thoughts: This book was everything I could want in a Medieval historical romance. The cadence of its sentences, along with the superb (and frankly, ravishing voice) delivery of narrator Brad Wills, transported me from now to then. From the outset I was engaged with the humorous scene where Luke tells Lady Alixandrea the woes of his brother and how utterly ashamed Luke became once he knew who he spoke with.
Kathryn Le Veque’s descriptive words of imagery set the scene of each act. I clearly smelled the putrid stench of the tavern as Lady Alixandrea walked through the doors, the dirt of the road that her maid kicked up while walking, the terror of a battle raging around her head and helpless for escape, of stables smelling of hay and urine. I was there. I saw it all.
It was a story of heightened tension in a gripping storyline erupting even before Matthew could take Lady Alixandrea to the castle. Their neighbor, a Tudor ally, attacked them, something Matthew knew would eventually happen, just not that day. Luckily, with the additional 400 fighters with him he fought well, even though the attack was a surprise. They were able to fight them off, but Luke, Matthew’s brother, was struck by an arrow. He had been guarding Alixandrea. I was ready to see the lady shot or White Lord injured. But we find that Lady Alixandrea is not only beautiful and as graceful as any queen, but quick-witted, intelligent and courageous besides.
We learn Matthew is not only a fighting knight, but also a compassionate son. For the last 12 years, since his mother had died, their father, also a knight, had never been exactly sane. Anything could set him off. Matthew had taken it upon himself to try to manage his environment so he would not go over the cliff into madness. He’d drink and talk of his lost lady love, how much misery life was without her and very often would try to kill himself.
From the first, I was caught in battle, intrigue and the wicked ways of greedy men. I was privy to how knights discuss strategy and warfare. I was party to reasons why men fight each other, why some men would follow Richard III and others Henry Tudor, how women could be used as pawns to barter.
I enjoyed the scenes where the four brothers, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all knights, would work together to protect their own and their king, would discuss the great battle soon to be fought because it was evident something large was going to happen. When divisions were apparent among the brothers, it never interfered with how they pulled together. The author created a great story in the throws of history. Certainly, this would make a great film!
This story gave me a real sense of the peril people lived in during that time of history in England, with the constant wars. It was a gripping tension-filled read, further enhanced by the excellent performance of narrator Brad Wills. His voice for Matthew was perfect. It is a deep bass voice that only bespeaks the size of the man. I coward when he spoke and then he’d use his voice speaking words of respect and love to Lady Alixandrea which would melt my heart. But with such a huge, massive voice, he paradoxically spoke the dialog of Lady Alixandrea eloquently, befitting the woman. His voice for the lady’s maid, had a rather raucous pitch and volume much as I envision the non-nobility of that time period speaking. Brad Wills’ performance perfected a most perfect story. She's gained another besotted fan!
June 13, 2022
This author writes from the heart and I just can't get enough of her books! I absolutely adore medieval romances and Kathryn Le Veque knows her stuff. Right now I'm on a De Russe Legacy kick and I'm thoroughly enjoying this series.
This is Matthew and Alixandrea's story and I just loved both characters. Between the politics of the time and the blossoming romance between them, this truly is a fascinating story to read. I also loved the friendship between Matthew and Gaston, so much respect for the both of them!
A solid 5 star read!!
This is Matthew and Alixandrea's story and I just loved both characters. Between the politics of the time and the blossoming romance between them, this truly is a fascinating story to read. I also loved the friendship between Matthew and Gaston, so much respect for the both of them!
A solid 5 star read!!
April 1, 2014
I laughed, I cried, I got mad it was such a great read .Matt The White Lord grabbed hold of my heart .I couldn't help but fall in love with him .He's kind ,caring ,loving and one of the Kings best knights. Alexandra is a beautiful woman with a kind heart. Matt and Alexandra have many obstacles to hurdle as they find their way to true love .
December 2, 2014
This ought to be read before The Dark One: Dark Knight (De Russe Legacy #2) the story about the White Knight's best friend, de Russe.
I read this second so the story answered a few questions that the The Dark One: Dark Knight (De Russe Legacy #2) brought up. This story had a very tight story around the Battle at Bosworth Field.
Matthew Wellesbourne and Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave were promised to each other when they were children. Matthew made assumptions about his prospective bride, and did his best to avoid her because he did not want to marry. Many arranged marriages never engendered a loving relationship but this story is different. Matthew and Alixandrea do marry but to their astonishment they fall in love.
Even on the eve of a great battle this may seem idyllic for the newlyweds but Alixandrea has been caught up in the devastating machinations of politics. Matthew and his brothers all scramble to make the world safe for Alixandrea... then come the battle that will end the War of the Roses. Matthew is then called upon to question his loyalty to his king or to his best friend. Now, not only will the battle decide who inhabits the throne of England but all that Matthew and Alixandrea were getting used to may just be crushed.
There is a quietude to the romance -- the swelling of the reader's heart as they read about the hero and heroine coming together. Yet, the author never lets you forget that events greater than Matthew and Alixandrea are hanging overhead just waiting to destroy what they want to become.
This is a great story but I really do hope you read this before the epic The Dark One: Dark Knight (De Russe Legacy #2). Two stories that truly belong together!
I read this second so the story answered a few questions that the The Dark One: Dark Knight (De Russe Legacy #2) brought up. This story had a very tight story around the Battle at Bosworth Field.
Matthew Wellesbourne and Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave were promised to each other when they were children. Matthew made assumptions about his prospective bride, and did his best to avoid her because he did not want to marry. Many arranged marriages never engendered a loving relationship but this story is different. Matthew and Alixandrea do marry but to their astonishment they fall in love.
Even on the eve of a great battle this may seem idyllic for the newlyweds but Alixandrea has been caught up in the devastating machinations of politics. Matthew and his brothers all scramble to make the world safe for Alixandrea... then come the battle that will end the War of the Roses. Matthew is then called upon to question his loyalty to his king or to his best friend. Now, not only will the battle decide who inhabits the throne of England but all that Matthew and Alixandrea were getting used to may just be crushed.
There is a quietude to the romance -- the swelling of the reader's heart as they read about the hero and heroine coming together. Yet, the author never lets you forget that events greater than Matthew and Alixandrea are hanging overhead just waiting to destroy what they want to become.
This is a great story but I really do hope you read this before the epic The Dark One: Dark Knight (De Russe Legacy #2). Two stories that truly belong together!
August 31, 2013
A moving story of a WONDERFUL Knight and his LOVELY lady love...
I love digging into one of this authors stories. I never have to wonder if I I'm waisting my time or not...I'm usually always entertained and hardly ever leave one of her books disappointed. This story is no different. Matthew the hero is a dream boat of a Knight. He's kind, generous and compassionate to a fault. His lady love in this story is not only beautiful on the outside, but on the inside as well. She is kind, tough, and feisty. A perfect combo for a great heroine. The characters are very well developed and I really enjoy how they love and 'feel' openly. Believe me I love a brooding hero as much as the next person, but its nice for once to see a hero love so openly. Last but not least a secondary character in particular stood out named Gaston who has his own story in 'The Dark One, Dark Knight'. I cant wait to read his story! He is an interesting character to say the least!!
A certain death did bother me at the end of the story...just didn't see the point of it. But its a Medieval story with fighting and battles so it wasn't too unexpected. It just wasn't who I thought it was going to be.
If you love Medieval Romance with romantic hero's and feisty heroines...this is a must read!
I love digging into one of this authors stories. I never have to wonder if I I'm waisting my time or not...I'm usually always entertained and hardly ever leave one of her books disappointed. This story is no different. Matthew the hero is a dream boat of a Knight. He's kind, generous and compassionate to a fault. His lady love in this story is not only beautiful on the outside, but on the inside as well. She is kind, tough, and feisty. A perfect combo for a great heroine. The characters are very well developed and I really enjoy how they love and 'feel' openly. Believe me I love a brooding hero as much as the next person, but its nice for once to see a hero love so openly. Last but not least a secondary character in particular stood out named Gaston who has his own story in 'The Dark One, Dark Knight'. I cant wait to read his story! He is an interesting character to say the least!!
A certain death did bother me at the end of the story...just didn't see the point of it. But its a Medieval story with fighting and battles so it wasn't too unexpected. It just wasn't who I thought it was going to be.
If you love Medieval Romance with romantic hero's and feisty heroines...this is a must read!
November 2, 2013
There's nothing better than reading a book that can make you laugh & cry. I was on the bus going to work reading & I had this goofy smile on my face, the lady sitting opposite said " must be a good book". Yes it was...
July 24, 2024
This was a free ebook I finally got around to reading (I have to be in the mood for medieval). I enjoyed the adventure. While some of the syrupy prose on the part of the hero didn't quite feel realistic, all of the politics and intrigue of the time felt more authentic and I enjoyed the drama. I liked Matthew a lot and I enjoyed Alixandrea a lot too. The romance was fun and I liked that they were devoted to each other on the backdrop of a major shift in the times. I also really enjoyed another character, Gaston, in this one, but his book was a letdown for me.
Note to myself--I found the sex scenes fine in this one, just skimmed through them, but Gaston's book was way over the top so I need to be aware of this if I ever pick up other Le Veque books--they aren't really to my taste.
Note to myself--I found the sex scenes fine in this one, just skimmed through them, but Gaston's book was way over the top so I need to be aware of this if I ever pick up other Le Veque books--they aren't really to my taste.
July 7, 2018
What a wonderful book to read if you like medieval knights you can't go wrong with Kathryn Le Veque' s books. The wonderful friendships and romances are so well done with strong characters you just can't leave you get into her books pretty quick and can't let go until you have finished them.
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September 7, 2018
5 Stars was not enough. This book was incredible. By chapter 2 I was smitten with our hero Matthew Wellsbourne and by Chapter 11, I was full fledged in love and can not imagine not reading his story. The heroin Alix was fantastic. In my mind she was a strong yet naive & innocent in the same right. Which made her actually all the more endearing. The White Lord was just swoon worthy in my opinion. Having read The Dark Knight previously, I knew a little of the White Lord, but this book tied it all together and in wonderful fashion.
I have to admit, I was excited that Gaston De Russe played a part as Sir Matthew played a part in his story and it was great to see their loyalties and friendship in both stories. It truly brought them to life as Gods among men in there time. Also admittedly, my heart skipped a little at the first mention of Sir Arik. (If you have read the Dark Knight, you know why...if not read it and you will see)
Matthew Wellsbourne fought his betrothal for 10 years, and Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave spent those 10 years dreaming of the day the legendary White Lord of the realm would come for her and honor their betrothal. The turn of events and the character of Matthew Wellsbourne is one not often seen in Medivial heros. He was not afraid to be vulnerable when faced with the reality that he had made a grievous mistake for 10 years. One of my favorite things about him was that he was just as passionate as he was terrifying. Men feared him, but for his one weakness and one he readily admitted to having.
A fantastic portion of the book was the unfolding of the events at Bosworth. The White Lords ultimate sacrifice and harrowing loyalty of honor in that sacrifice were astounding. One of my favorite times in history, and the way Kathryn wrote this tale gave you pause and understanding.
Just a magnificent book. If you read no other Le Veque novels, The White Lord and The Dark Knight, should be on your list. I dont normally re-read novels as there are so many to choose from and get to in this life time. But this, The White Lord will be a definite re-read for me!!!!
I have to admit, I was excited that Gaston De Russe played a part as Sir Matthew played a part in his story and it was great to see their loyalties and friendship in both stories. It truly brought them to life as Gods among men in there time. Also admittedly, my heart skipped a little at the first mention of Sir Arik. (If you have read the Dark Knight, you know why...if not read it and you will see)
Matthew Wellsbourne fought his betrothal for 10 years, and Alixandrea Terrington St. Ave spent those 10 years dreaming of the day the legendary White Lord of the realm would come for her and honor their betrothal. The turn of events and the character of Matthew Wellsbourne is one not often seen in Medivial heros. He was not afraid to be vulnerable when faced with the reality that he had made a grievous mistake for 10 years. One of my favorite things about him was that he was just as passionate as he was terrifying. Men feared him, but for his one weakness and one he readily admitted to having.
A fantastic portion of the book was the unfolding of the events at Bosworth. The White Lords ultimate sacrifice and harrowing loyalty of honor in that sacrifice were astounding. One of my favorite times in history, and the way Kathryn wrote this tale gave you pause and understanding.
Just a magnificent book. If you read no other Le Veque novels, The White Lord and The Dark Knight, should be on your list. I dont normally re-read novels as there are so many to choose from and get to in this life time. But this, The White Lord will be a definite re-read for me!!!!
June 16, 2016
WARNING - RANT - A re read 1 year later with added review--
My emotional trigger was just hit, and it came most unexpectedly during the read. Therefore the following is a very emotional response...
I have no clue as to why I ever rated this 5 stars on my first read. Perhaps after a year of reading GOOD books about GREAT and HONORABLE hero's my eyes have been opened. Therefore, I have adjusted my rating accordingly.
I brought this down to 1 star mainly for the fact that the author has destroyed a perfectly great hero. I can not fathom as to WHY anyone would do this except to add conflict in the most cheapest way possible.
The fact that she took a hero who supposedly "couldn't remember when he last had a woman" (see below quote) and then later bring out how he had so many wenches and a lover for over a year is just inconceivable.
“It had been a long time since Matthew had been with a woman. So long, in fact, that he could not remember when last he touched female flesh. But gazing down at Alixandrea’s face, it was as if no other woman had existed before her. It”
Seriously I went from loving this book to HATING it with a matter of a paragraph. Why in God's name would an author do this to a reader?
Advice:
1. Get your hero's character decided BEFORE you write the book. Either he is a good guy or an ass.
2. REMEMBER his traits and don't deviate.
I'm sorry, but the hero's "Excuses" to the heroine are weak and unforgivable. I cannot continue this book. DONE!
I am also vowing to NEVER read another Le Veque book again. Nor will I ever recommend her books to anyone else.
There are far better medieval books out there with far better heros.
DONE!!!
My emotional trigger was just hit, and it came most unexpectedly during the read. Therefore the following is a very emotional response...
I have no clue as to why I ever rated this 5 stars on my first read. Perhaps after a year of reading GOOD books about GREAT and HONORABLE hero's my eyes have been opened. Therefore, I have adjusted my rating accordingly.
I brought this down to 1 star mainly for the fact that the author has destroyed a perfectly great hero. I can not fathom as to WHY anyone would do this except to add conflict in the most cheapest way possible.
The fact that she took a hero who supposedly "couldn't remember when he last had a woman" (see below quote) and then later bring out how he had so many wenches and a lover for over a year is just inconceivable.
“It had been a long time since Matthew had been with a woman. So long, in fact, that he could not remember when last he touched female flesh. But gazing down at Alixandrea’s face, it was as if no other woman had existed before her. It”
Seriously I went from loving this book to HATING it with a matter of a paragraph. Why in God's name would an author do this to a reader?
Advice:
1. Get your hero's character decided BEFORE you write the book. Either he is a good guy or an ass.
2. REMEMBER his traits and don't deviate.
I'm sorry, but the hero's "Excuses" to the heroine are weak and unforgivable. I cannot continue this book. DONE!
I am also vowing to NEVER read another Le Veque book again. Nor will I ever recommend her books to anyone else.
There are far better medieval books out there with far better heros.
DONE!!!
Read
February 3, 20135***** Wonderful white lord. This is another wonderful historical romance from Kathryn Le Veque. Alixandrea is being sent by her uncle to marry her betrothed. Matthew has been avoiding the marriage for ten years. He just doesn't want to get married. The story is set in the time of the war of the roses. Matthew is one of King Richard's most loyal knights. Alix is travelling with four hundred soldiers who are to join Matthew's. Alix and Matt have never met but she has heard tales all her life about the wonderful man her husband to be is. Matt takes one look at her and decides he was wrong to put the wedding off so long. What neither of them know is her wedding is to be a trojan horse type event.
In this book we have lots of political intrigue. Family tension, adventure and above all a beautiful love story. I am now ready to read
The book that Kathryn is releasing soon.
This has given me a taste of the character and I can't wait to see what happens next
In this book we have lots of political intrigue. Family tension, adventure and above all a beautiful love story. I am now ready to read
The book that Kathryn is releasing soon.
This has given me a taste of the character and I can't wait to see what happens next
January 13, 2020
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
❤️❤️
My heart is pounding out of my ribs after reading this , it has to be one of the best medieval epics ever .
Absolutely stunning. Everything about it is perfect.
The battle scenes , the heartbreaking emotions, the love and passion of Mathew and his lady, it’s just been wonderful.
I adored his friendship with Gaston , brothers to the end . His own brothers had such diverse personalities it was great to read about them .
I look forward to reading so much more of Kathryn’s collection.
❤️❤️
My heart is pounding out of my ribs after reading this , it has to be one of the best medieval epics ever .
Absolutely stunning. Everything about it is perfect.
The battle scenes , the heartbreaking emotions, the love and passion of Mathew and his lady, it’s just been wonderful.
I adored his friendship with Gaston , brothers to the end . His own brothers had such diverse personalities it was great to read about them .
I look forward to reading so much more of Kathryn’s collection.
February 1, 2014
Another beautiful story written by Kathryn Le Veque! The story captured me from the first page. I give a story 5 stars to a book when the story is able to make me laugh, cry, and fall in love with characters. I highly recommend this book. I am now eagerly diving into Gaston's story in the Dark One, Dark Knight. (book 2)
January 22, 2014
Endearing romance between Matthew and Alixandrea. Great story arc and supporting cast of characters. While we sort of get an "epilogue" it was very brief and abrupt. I would have liked an epilogue that included not only the H/h but the side characters as well.
February 20, 2015
Yep, I'm in medieval heaven re-reading these books!
Finished for the second time. Sigh. I can certainly see why Matthew Wellesbourne is Kathryn Le Veque's favorite hero! Loved it again! The entire series is FABULOUS!
Finished for the second time. Sigh. I can certainly see why Matthew Wellesbourne is Kathryn Le Veque's favorite hero! Loved it again! The entire series is FABULOUS!
October 16, 2012
Great book.
February 21, 2016
Great book overall, especially loved the love story. I hated Mark though.
September 19, 2019
Novel ini settingnya pada masa perang War of The Roses. Tepatnya pada saat king Richard III atau Richard Plantagenet harus menghadapi Henry Tudor yang ingin menggulingkan kekuasaannya alias rebutan tahta. Untungnya dulu saya pernah nonton tv series The White Queen, jadi bisa nyambung dikit... 🤔
Summarynya, Matthew atau dijuluki sebagai The White Lord of Wellesbourne selama 10 tahun menjalani pertunangan dengan Lady Alixandrea tapi gak pernah ketemu muka. Aslinya Matt ini ogah nikah, apalagi nikahnya harus diatur dalam sebuah kontrak pernikahan begini. Tapi dikarenakan situasi yang memaksa, terutama di masa perang, akhirnya Matt setuju untuk menikah meski berat hati. Lady Alixandrea ini sendiri dowrynya berupa 400 orang prajurit, yang tentunya sangat dibutuhkan Wellesbourne untuk menghadapi serbuan pasukan dari Henry Tudor. Tapi tanpa diketahui baik Matt maupun Alixandrea, 400 orang prajurit ini diperintahkan untuk membunuh Matt seketika setelah upacara pernikahan selesai. Kenapa? Soalnya ada klausa yang menyatakan bahwa jika Alixandrea menjadi janda, maka warisan berupa kastil Wellesbourne beserta harta kekayaannya akan jatuh ke tangan Alixandrea. Nah, yang pengen bunuh Matt ini adalah pamannya Alixandrea, yang kebetulan jadi serigala berbulu domba (ngakunya pendukung king Richard, tapi diam-diam dukung Henry Tudor). Ini baru awalnya doang sih ya. Soalnya makin ke belakang cerita makin berkembang. Ditambah konflik-konflik yang terjadi karena situasi perang.
Overall, heronya Kathryn Le Veque ini gak pernah ada yang mengecewakan. Beneran cowok idaman 😅 Yah walaupun di tengah buku ada hal yang bikin saya agak kecewa sama Matt.
Summarynya, Matthew atau dijuluki sebagai The White Lord of Wellesbourne selama 10 tahun menjalani pertunangan dengan Lady Alixandrea tapi gak pernah ketemu muka. Aslinya Matt ini ogah nikah, apalagi nikahnya harus diatur dalam sebuah kontrak pernikahan begini. Tapi dikarenakan situasi yang memaksa, terutama di masa perang, akhirnya Matt setuju untuk menikah meski berat hati. Lady Alixandrea ini sendiri dowrynya berupa 400 orang prajurit, yang tentunya sangat dibutuhkan Wellesbourne untuk menghadapi serbuan pasukan dari Henry Tudor. Tapi tanpa diketahui baik Matt maupun Alixandrea, 400 orang prajurit ini diperintahkan untuk membunuh Matt seketika setelah upacara pernikahan selesai. Kenapa? Soalnya ada klausa yang menyatakan bahwa jika Alixandrea menjadi janda, maka warisan berupa kastil Wellesbourne beserta harta kekayaannya akan jatuh ke tangan Alixandrea. Nah, yang pengen bunuh Matt ini adalah pamannya Alixandrea, yang kebetulan jadi serigala berbulu domba (ngakunya pendukung king Richard, tapi diam-diam dukung Henry Tudor). Ini baru awalnya doang sih ya. Soalnya makin ke belakang cerita makin berkembang. Ditambah konflik-konflik yang terjadi karena situasi perang.
Overall, heronya Kathryn Le Veque ini gak pernah ada yang mengecewakan. Beneran cowok idaman 😅 Yah walaupun di tengah buku ada hal yang bikin saya agak kecewa sama Matt.
February 26, 2018
Wow. This book was an incredible surprise. It was so easy to fall in love with this couple and I especially adore the combination of the H's sensitivity and the h's wit/strength. She is the pluckiest and by far the best heroine of any KL book I have read to date, since they seem to mostly have the tendency towards being whiny, petulant, selfish cows. It certainly was a huge reward after slogging through the DeWolfe Pack series to arrive at this point in the journey. The legacy these two leave behind would be a great series in itself.
**Adam getting his keep full of dogs was a treat!**
**Adam getting his keep full of dogs was a treat!**
February 15, 2025
Great story
Sir Matthew Wellsbourne the White Lord of Wellsbourne was betrothed to Alixandrea for more than 10 years. He did not want the marriage but it had been done between sir Matthew’s father and Alixandrea’s Uncle who was her guardian.
While traveling to her betrothed home she makes her soldiers stop at a town called Newbold outside of Wellsbourne. She goes into the tavern called Head of Bucket where she finds her betrothed there. While leaving the place they are ambushed.
Matthew was not ready to marry until he sees his betrothed and feeling started happening.
Sir Matthew Wellsbourne the White Lord of Wellsbourne was betrothed to Alixandrea for more than 10 years. He did not want the marriage but it had been done between sir Matthew’s father and Alixandrea’s Uncle who was her guardian.
While traveling to her betrothed home she makes her soldiers stop at a town called Newbold outside of Wellsbourne. She goes into the tavern called Head of Bucket where she finds her betrothed there. While leaving the place they are ambushed.
Matthew was not ready to marry until he sees his betrothed and feeling started happening.
July 25, 2019
This story was about Adam and Audrey Wellesbourne's children. It is only part of the De Russe legacy because Audrey is the child of the Beast, who married Adam Wellesbourne. This story is about their oldest son Matthew. Who has been holding off his betrothed for 10 years. She gets tired of waiting and shows up on his doorstep.
This is great story of love, jealously, battles, friendship and loss.
I love Kathryn Le Veque novels. It's like a miniseries in one book.
This is great story of love, jealously, battles, friendship and loss.
I love Kathryn Le Veque novels. It's like a miniseries in one book.
August 18, 2020
Alexandria and Matthew
This is another great medieval historical romance with the characters of the White Lord, Matthew, and Alixandrea and their developing romance after their contract marriage.While weaving a medieval historical fact, the explanation of the close friendship between Matthew and Gaston known as the Dark Knight is also a very interesting part of the story. This book should be read before book 4 which continues the story of Gaston De Russe.
This is another great medieval historical romance with the characters of the White Lord, Matthew, and Alixandrea and their developing romance after their contract marriage.While weaving a medieval historical fact, the explanation of the close friendship between Matthew and Gaston known as the Dark Knight is also a very interesting part of the story. This book should be read before book 4 which continues the story of Gaston De Russe.
May 6, 2017
The White Lord of Wellesbourne
This novel is another winner for this author. The hero and heroine are truly matched and ment for each other. The love that they share is powerful and true. Matthew is a great knight known as The White Lord. He falls in love with his beautiful wife forever and always. Readers of this time period will enjoy this novel.
This novel is another winner for this author. The hero and heroine are truly matched and ment for each other. The love that they share is powerful and true. Matthew is a great knight known as The White Lord. He falls in love with his beautiful wife forever and always. Readers of this time period will enjoy this novel.
May 21, 2020
Kathryn Le Veque does it again! The White Lord of Wellesbourne is a must read. It’s one of those hard to put down books. Spectacular story that grips you and transports you right into the book as though you are right there living the story.
Definitely would recommend this to anyone who likes historical romance.
5 stars!
Definitely would recommend this to anyone who likes historical romance.
5 stars!
December 23, 2016
Good Book
If you like Scottish historical romances, this is the book for you. There is a lot of intrigue and war but overall there is a love story.
I like that Matthew is a bit tender-hearted under all that armor.
This time period also makes me happy we have cars!
Happy Reading
If you like Scottish historical romances, this is the book for you. There is a lot of intrigue and war but overall there is a love story.
I like that Matthew is a bit tender-hearted under all that armor.
This time period also makes me happy we have cars!
Happy Reading
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