WolfeSword

De Wolfe Pack Generations #3

by Kathryn Le Veque

He's a veritable god of beauty, position, and talent. She's a lady of sweetness, wealth, and compassion. When gorgeous Cassius de Wolfe falls for a plain but sweet lady, the woman who hoped to have his affection doesn't take kindly to it.

Cassius has set himself up for retribution of the female kind. As the old saying goes, there's nothing like a woman scorned…

Or a de Wolfe protecting his mate.

Welcome to a de Wolfe Pack Generations tale!

Cassius de Wolfe, second son of Patrick “Atty” de Wolfe (Nighthawk), has made a name for himself as the Great Protector of Edward I. Cassius is the beauty of the family—handsome, skilled, built like the statue of a Greek god. He has no problem getting women into his bed, and in London, they follow him around in droves.

Cassius is a Medieval celebrity.

But all of that is secondary to the fact that Cassius is a truly skilled knight. He's a de Wolfe, and that means the knighthood lives in him as surely as the sun lives in the sky. After two years away, he's finally earned the chance to return home to see his father and mother and family, so on the eve of returning home, Fate has something else in mind for him.

Dacia of Doncaster is the heiress to a massive fortune. With both parents deceased, she is an only child, living with her elderly grandfather, the Duke of Doncaster. The old duke descends from an ancient royal line, and Dacia is the very last of her kind… and a hugely sought-after bride. There's only one problem—she's not what men would consider traditionally beautiful.

When Cassius the Handsome comes face to face with Dacia of Doncaster, a chance meeting turns into something more. Cassius wasn't looking for a bride, and Dacia wasn't looking for a husband, but when Dacia saves Cassius' life, it's more than a debt of honor he feels towards her.

Sometimes the most beautiful woman in the world isn't the obvious one, and Cassius must find that out the hard way.

Join Cassius and Dacia for an unusual—and truly beautiful—love story.

Genres: Historical Romance, Medieval, Historical, Medieval Romance, Romance

405 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 29, 2020

About the author

Juggernaut 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.

Reviews

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series has really grown on me and for the most part this was my favourite one so far.

Cassius de Wolfe is a incredibly handsome man. He’s also Lord Protector to the King which makes him a much sought after man. The king himself has joked he won’t be killed in battle but instead in a stampede of women trying to get to Cass.

Dacia of Doncaster is a beautiful woman. She’s intelligent, kind and compassionate her only flaw appears to be having been born with freckles. Seems crazy to us but back then they were considered the devils marks by some.
As she grows she isolates herself to a large degree. Making her easy to be manipulated by her pretty cousin Amata.

So we have a handsome knight and a woman who covers her face when in public. This book started so well and I was hooked. In addition to these two we have a looming land dispute with ruthless mercenaries thrown into the mix.
And the story was laid out before me.
Or was it?
Things changed and it didn’t go as expected. Since I don’t want to make this a spoiler review I’ll leave it at that. But I’m not sure it chose the best path.
For me the first half was better than the second. It kind of lost it’s way at times and one moment in particular didn’t sit right. But it was a small point and overall this was a fabulous book. Like I said earlier for me it’s probably the best so far.

I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided by NetGalley. My review as always is my own

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💋💋

Cassius and Dacia have to be one of the most beautiful couples that Kathryn has written.
They have all the chemistry and underlying passion in buckets full. They are not just physically but emotionally perfect and it’s a beautiful story to read.

Yes there are battles, fighting and the baddies that pop in to split them up making for some stunning reading and fantastic moments.
But really it feels this is about Cass and Dacia’s journey to a wonderful life together from what is a troubling and disturbing upbringing for the young woman.

It’s a great pleasure to read and it’s another of those Le Veque Classics that you’ll find addictive and satisfying, I promise.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[... Lost Bookland... · Rating 4 out of 5]

Since my Literature teacher forced me to read ‘Pride & Prejudice’ , historical romances have become my weakness and greatest pleasure. I enjoy traveling to distant worlds, to other times when other rules and principles applied. And believe me that Wolfe Sword is a journey that checks all the boxes when it comes to historical romances.
An unexpected order from the king brings our brave hero to the household, where the quiet Dacia lives- the woman marked by the devil and evil spirits. A chance meeting arouses unexpected interest and excitement. But what will happen when his experienced eyes spot her unique and extraordinary beauty? When the feelings start becoming overwhelming and pull them towards each other? Will they have enough strength and faith to defend their chaste love from the evil tongues, malicious intentions, and envy?
With battles, fighting, and pure love, this novel has lots of elements that will keep your attention to the very end. The storyline is quite interesting and compelling, though a bit far-fetched in several parts. The characters were very well-developed. Cassius is a remarkable male species, hot-as-sin, loyal, proud, extremely attentive, and emotional. I was amazed by the fact that he’s unafraid to show his emotions and cry when the grief and emotions strike. Dacia is a lonely young woman whose self-esteem was shattered during her childhood. Instead of self-pity and bitterness, she wears her generosity and kind heart with pride. Her journey from a silent, meek mouse to a brave woman felt rushed as she changed from one moment to the next. I believe this process deserves greater importance and more profound elaboration. The secondary characters were nicely developed and well-integrated into the story, each one perfectly fitted in their role.
Wolfe Sword is a fascinating story, filled with humorous and witty dialogue. Beneath the swoon-worthy romance dwells a skillful exploration of the impact of childhood, emotional trauma, the setbacks of being an orphan, and envy as the culprit of many misfortunes. This novel emphasizes the healing power of love and acceptance. A get getaway for every historical fiction lover.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thinking to take some time out to visit with his large and boisterous family together with his two close friends, Cassius is headed home after two years as the Great Protector of King Edward. However, he has to interrupt his journey in order to deliver a message to the Duke of Doncaster where his unruly hound, Argos, manages to push a comely maiden into the river. Cassius has already been appraised about Dacia of Doncaster but when he sees the lady in her dripping clothes, he finds himself smitten by her. Knowing that she is reticent by nature, Cassius cautiously woos her, gently persuading her that her beauty is unique and outshines that of the women he has met at Court. Whilst Cassius does not intend to stay long at Doncaster, circumstances arise that force him to intervene in a battle that is not his own, which ultimately prolongs his visit. The attraction between Cassius and Dacia is palpable and develops into a full-blown romance. Unfortunately, Dacia has her own enemies, and although she chooses to fight her own battles, it would seem that she is about to lose that one most precious thing that has ever happened to her. This well-written novel has all the hallmarks of a medieval romance, with a gallant knight and his lady finding a love that cannot be denied. Cassius makes a wonderful hero as he is not only protective towards Dacia but also urges her to believe in herself. Dacia is an accomplished woman, but mean words and spiteful comments have stolen her life from her. It takes the noble knight to make her see that she has much more to live for. I received a copy of this beautiful story as a gift through NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Carolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

In all these years, and all of Kathryn Le Veque's books, my favorite character has always been Sir William de Wolfe of "The Wolfe." That is THE book that began everything de Wolfe. I have loved all the leading men because the author writes great heroes, but William has always been the pinnacle, quintessential hero. After reading this book, I have to put William de Wolfe's grandson, Cassius de Wolfe, right by his side. Yep, I now have TWO favorite, equally "perfect" heroes because Cassius de Wolfe is the closest to William's character as any that has been written since he began it all. Cassius has the same strength, ethics, character, fierce loyalty, sensitivity, brilliance in battle and the political realm and the devotion to family and friends that William displayed. Every time he revealed another facet of his character, I immediately thought "he is just like William there." Oh, he wasn't exactly the same, because there is only ONE William de Wolfe. However, Cassius de Wolfe was the closest yet. The interaction between Cassius and our heroine, Dacia was just adorable. Dacia, the extremely sheltered, seemingly naive but very well educated woman in his sights, turned out to have a spine of steel. They were so cute together and some of the best parts of the book. I love that he was totally knockout gorgeous guy and she was considered not only plain, but marred just because she had freckles; however, Cassius thought they were all nuts in their belief in that regard because she was truly beautiful in his eyes. Yes, this character and this book was really, really good. Needless to say, I loved it!

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my... Those wonderful de Wolfe men are at it again and this time it is Cassius. "He smiled, women swooned, and all was right with the world."

When he was sent by the King to give a message to the Duke of Doncaster, he met his granddaughter Dacia. Unfortunately the first meeting involved his dog pushing her in the water and her trying to cover her face. Yes, she had been taught from childhood her freckles were the devils work..and kept her face hidden.

But there was so much more to Dacia and Cassius began to see her intelligence, kindness and strength. Then when he did she her face, all he saw was beauty. If only he could convince her.

This has been my favorite so far of this series, although I have loved each one. Heck, let's be truthful, I adore the de Wolfes, and the de Lohrs, and .... all of the characters that this author creates! Her imagination is endless and the characters are so real, I can see them in my mind.
With that said, I think I will be "seeing" Cassius for awhile!

Yes, a definite sigh worthy story filled you do not want to miss!!

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

As they say, “hell hath no fury like a woman scorned!”

Read full review in the 2021 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Mslvoe · Rating 5 out of 5]

She never failed me with her story. Awesome!

[Carole Burant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my heart....oh my, this was such a wonderful story as only Kathryn Le Veque can write! As individuals, Cassius and Dacia are quite the unique characters but put them together and they are simply enchanting. Your heart will soar for them and it will also weep for them.

Dacia has been raised thinking that her freckles are the mark of the devil and has always hidden behind veils. It doesn't help that her cousin has spread lies about her throughout the years and believe me, when she gets her comeuppance, I was cheering!! One can't even imagine the loneliness Dacia has known but that all changes when she meets Cassius!

Cassius is not only perfect hero material, he's also a man who is not afraid to cry when emotions take over. I absolutely loved that about him. You also have to love his dog, Argos, such a loveable big goof! lol With this story you get it all, adventure, humour, battles, enemies, passion, history, etc.

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Amanda Hupe]

"As they say, "Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned!"

Check out my full review at InD'Tale Magazine:

http://magazine.indtale.com/magazine/...

[JenMcJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I first picked up romance novels in the early 80's as a young teenager, this book would have made me swoon on any chaise lounge I could find. It's well written, historical, seems deeply researched and connects to the history of the time. Most importantly, it has all the romantic elements you could want. Cassius has the smooth words, the unbelievable handsomeness, the manly job, the courtly manners, a dog and two loyal sidekicks. Everything a girl could want and Dacia....wants. Dacia is just the kind of heroine I loved back then and even now. Misunderstood, neglected, a good soul despite her circumstances that eventually finds her self esteem and stands up for herself in a spectacular manner. I would have loved this book just the way it is.

Now however, sadly, I found it highly boring and much too platonic for my grown up tastes and experiences. I felt no chemistry at all between them. I felt no intimacy even when they got married and finally retired to their bedchamber to consummate their love and marriage.

Additionally, there were some plot issues that annoyed me and derailed my reading experience. So, since this author seems to be a gentle romance writer, I think I'll have to look elsewhere for my next book, despite her impressive backlist.

[Lillie Johnson · Rating 1 out of 5]

Boring

This was the worst book I have ever read from this author. I have read many of her books but this one was boring. I skipped through the biggest part of it. Totally disappointed.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

WolfeSword by Kathryn Le Veque is the story of Cassius de Wolfe second son of Patrick (Atty) and grandson of William and Jordan, who is currently the king's Lord Protector. On his trip to see his grandmother, who is well into her 90th decade, he is stopping to deliver a message to the Duke of Doncaster. At the same time, the duke's neighbor, who has designs on his land and his granddaughter is negotiating with the leader of a band of mercenaries he has hired to expedite the takeover. Cassius, being who he is, gets involved, not only with the battle, but also with the granddaughter. Dacia of Doncaster has been the victim of horrible gossip for years. It started with her nurse when she was but a babe, but it is being perpetuated by her very own cousin, Amata de Branton. What is her crime? She has freckles, which the gossips say are marks of the devil. This all gets so much more complicated but is full of love, romance, trickery, battles, blood, evil, and miscommunication. It is a true de Wolfe story at its finest. Le Veque fans will be wholly satisfied.

Cassius is a de Wolfe at his finest. He is clever, wholesome, loving, brave, and loyal. He sees Dacia for what she is: a beautiful woman. He sees Amata for what she is: a devil, out to hurt others. The subplot with the mercenary band just makes the whole things more interesting. This is a thoroughly wonderful book plotted by the master. We, the readers, have grown to love the de Wolfe family and respect and care for them. This is a fabulous story of a love between two deserving people, written for a fan base of thousands. Thank you, Kathryn.

I was invited to read a free ARC of WolfeSword by Netgalley. All opinions contained herein are solely my own.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

I was amazed in reading reviews some are so low. This isn't one of the author's more brutal stories, but I felt it showed the feelings of the H more than usual. So is it somewhat different than we read from this author, yes, but I found it still very engaging of a story.

We are told in the story, the h is beautiful, but has the devil mark - freckles. No-one has told the h any different, so she wear veils because almost everyone is afraid of her. I know this seems hard to believe, but you need to look at the time period and people's superstitions. The blurb states she is plain, but when she removes her veils, she is described as beautiful.

The H is part of the de Wolfe legacy. His name alone carries much without him having to do anything. He is taken with the h almost immediately. They fall in love slowly and when they are forced to part, you could feel the love they felt for each other.

We have several villains. I wanted to see the reaction of the h's grandfather when he learned what happened to his neighbor. I was also disappointed as others about the second villain not being part of the story line more. That would have added more fight scenes. Then we have a female villain what was unique.

I enjoyed how the h changed from being timid to taking action - priceless! That added another element to the story.

There is lovemaking, within marriage with our h/H - heat level 3 out of 5. Once with a secondary character, outside of marriage, heat level 3 out of 5. Both described mildly and not vulgar.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic and some spice. One very violent scene near the beginning. Rest is more of the two main character's overcoming all the twists thrown at them. (ljb)

[Cindy Coker · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous book! An incredible tribute to the deWolfe legacy! I love that within the first few pages I found one of the secondary characters was the son of my all time LeVeque hero, Maddoc duBois. What a fun little add to the story. Quickly you will find in reading this story why the author claims that Cassius has become one of her favorites, because he wuickly becomes a favorite to the reader.
An interesting tale which is a roller coaster for sure! Never a dull moment but also never so fantastical that it feels false or far fetching. Cass is for sure a tribute to his Scots & Norseman ancestry and the charm that is legendary is oozing from this hero, but he never so cocky that it isnt charming. Our heroin is a story line I would have never conjured not thinking that her rarity would have been perceived as witchcraft back then, which makes for an interesting tale and saga all its own.
The cherry on top of this cake was the sentimental side of Cassius, his ancestral bond & deep connection to meaning of deWolfe. Having such a reunion at Berwick was top notch & a reminder of all the reasons the readers love that de deWolfe stories are continuing!!
Another win for KL!! She gives you adventure, intrigue, heroines to champion, heros to swoon over and steamy that just makes it all that much more!!

[Sandra Standefer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dacia of Doncaster has been sheltered and ridiculed most of her life. A heiress to a vast fortune and as sweet as the day is long. Her only flaw is that she has freckles, the sign of a witch and her jealous cousin has made sure everyone knows this, so Dacia has covered her face for most of her life except to the few.

Cassius De Wolfe has the honor of being the king’s protector. He is strikingly handsome and has been sought after by the hordes of women looking to marry him and get into his bed! When he is on his way home for a visit he has been asked to stop at Doncaster and ask the Lord of Doncaster to commit money and men to the king.

Being forewarned about Dacia by her nasty cousin about Dacia’s Witches marks, when Cassius meets Dacia he is immediately intrigued. As Cassius comes to know Dacia he is more than intrigued, he is smitten.

Cassius and Dacia are worlds apart, but with honesty and love Cassius will do more for Dacia than anyone has ever done for her in her life. This is such a wonderful story. I can’t say enough for this love story. Your heart will surge and it will also break, but love can win out! Definitely do not miss reading Cassius and Dacia’s story.

[Darlene A. Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I was a little girl of about 8 years old I had freckles on my nose and scattered across my cheeks. (A trait of strawberry blonds was the excuse I always heard.) I don't remember why but I hated them. I told my grandmother and asked her if there was some way to get rid of them. Thank God for grandmas. She said we would put buttermilk on them every day until they went away. And it worked.

With that said I felt a kinship with Dacia (I wish I could have shared Cassius with her as well!!!) She was wonderful. While covering up her freckles she went about treating the ails of the village and assisted her grandfather in running the castle. Then Cassius entered her life. He saw her, all of her, and determined she was the most beautiful woman he ever saw.

But all fairy tales have witches. This one comes in the form of Dacia's jealous cousin.

This is a wonderful story, one of Kathryn Leveque's best in my opinion. Actually I have not read any of her books that I didn't like/love. And since she writes all her books as stand alone, you can start anywhere. Enjoy. (I had a good cry at the end. (Another trait of a sensitive red head.)

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enjoyable de Wolfe Pack novel by Ms. Le Veque. They are many of them, but they have a loyalty and a love of family. When they fall in love, they fall hard and nothing will keep them from the women they love. But, they all go through their own trials to find their happily ever after. Dacia is a kind and generous woman, a healer, but has been told horrible things since she was a child. She keeps to herself until she encounters Cassius. Cassius is considered a god among men, a knight. While on his way home, the king has given him a message and he encounters Dacia, a woman who does not chase him. Cassius tries to show Dacia how beautiful she is, inside and out. Cassius and Dacia fall in love, but there are those who wish to ruin the happiness they have, which forces Dacia to make a difficult decision. But Cassius is not one to give up so easily when it comes to the woman he loves.
I received this novel as an ARC from net galley and the publisher. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Petula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dacia de Ryes is an intelligent, kind hearted heiress. Because she's always been told her freckles are ugly marks from the devil,  she hides her face behind veils whenever she leaves her home. An orphan who has lived with her loving but distant grandfather, she has lots of people around but no real friends.  

Cassius de Wolfe is King Edward's Lord Protector but he's managed to claim a holiday long enough to visit his grandmother. He just has one errand to run for the King on his way home.  Cassius might be a huge battle tested warrior,  but he has a very soft heart and loves his family fiercely. 

This story will definitely tug on your heart strings.  Our poor heroine has suffered from nasty, small minded people all her life without complaint. Unfortunately that is about to come to a head. 

Our hero has more than one life threatening battle ahead. We also have a canine character that will have you giggling as much as his owner.  

An absolutely fabulous stand alone story where we meet up with several family members you will know from other books.  

I loved every page. 

[Karen Brotzman]

Cassius de Wolfe, grandson of the great William de Wolfe, has made his name as the protector of the king. After three long years away from his family, Cassius if finally on his way home to the mighty de Wolfe clan. Before he can go home, he must stop at the home of one of the kings allies to deliver a message. This stop will set Cassius up for the meeting that will change his life.
Once Cassius meets Dacia of Doncaster, the only heir of the elderly Duke of Doncaster, he is smitten with the lady who has led a lonely life due to the prejudice of jealousy of others.
This is just the beginning of a story filled with adventure and romance, full of new characters, ending with a reunion of old beloved characters.
I read this book in 1 1/2 days and was left wishing it would not end. As usual Ms. Le Veque takes you back to midieval England and makes you feel like you are really there with her descriptive writing. Five stars on this one.

I received this ARC in exchange for a fair review

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

No Beginning, No End

10 Stars!!!!! Cassius de Wolfe and Dacia's story is definitely a love story I want to keep in my library. It has been a while since I have shed tears for a story. This one not only made me cry, but had me laughing out loud as well! Cassius is the Lord Protector for the King, but he is taking some time before returning to Castle Questings to visit his grandmother, Lady Jordan de Wolfe. First he is headed to Doncaster to make a request from his king to the Duke. Prior to arriving he meets a pretty woman who will turn his world upside down. Though at Duncaster he comes across something valuable.

Dacia has been cursed with heartache almost her entire life. She rarely ventures outside of the castle and on those rare occasions she covers herself. One day she wonders to the river where a dog will change her life.

Greed, betrayal and danger are present for all in Duncaster and further.

This author is magnificent with her stories. I am a fan. Just loved this story. Now to purchase the physical copy for my library.

[MammaDi3Gatti · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm torn with how I feel about Wolfesword. It felt to me almost like two half stories cobbled into one. The first half I really loved, and I was thrilled because the last few books I'd read were not good at all. But then suddenly what I thought was the main conflict (an increasingly violent land dispute with a neighbor) came to an end, and a different, less dramatic conflict (Dacia's self esteem vs. an unforgivably cruel cousin) took over. Similarly, while I loved Dacia and Cass in the first half, I was disappointed by them in the second. In short, it seemed like they gave up on each other a little too easily. To say much more would take me into spoiler territory. Let's just say that I couldn't put the book down at first, but by the end, I couldn't finish it fast enough.

I was grateful to receive an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!

[Debbie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Great Protector of Edward I. Cassius de Wolfe is on a mission for the king to ask Duke of Doncaster for his support for the king. Cassius is the beauty of the de Wolfe family, woman follow him everywhere. In the village of Doncaster is no different the Duke’s cousin’s daughter is attracted to him and has decided he’s to be her husband by fair or foul means. Cassius discovers the Duke has been hiding his grander Docia of Doncaster from society to protect her. When he first glimpses her he realizes she a kind hearted soul, but she feels the need to cover her face and he became quit intrigued by her and her story. Cassius slowly brings Docia to life, excepting her as she is and she slowly falls for the one man to ever tell her the truth of how beautiful she is. Theirs is a story of love and exception with intrigue and deception all around them, can their love survive the gossip and rumors? I have voluntarily read and reviewed these excellent story filled with intrigue and romance.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. The De Wolfe clan is one of my favorites. Cassius is the King's Protector and he an a couple of the men and Cassius's dog have come upon Doncaster to speak to the Duke "Old Cuffy" for the king. Jealousy among women is not uncommon in any time it would appear. The De Wolfe men look more in depth at women, it's not only beauty but what's on the inside of the woman a well. Cassisus is the second son of Patrick ("Atty"). When he gets to the Doncaster castle there is a lot going on. Battles, a spiteful woman who wants him for herself will do anything to get him. Dacia is to inherit a massive fortune, and men would do anything to take what is not theirs. This is another love story for the ages. I love Jordan, and in her nineties is alive and well. Wonderful story. HEA. I just reviewed WolfeSword by Kathryn Le Veque. #WolfeSword #NetGalley

[Barbara Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassius de Wolfe is the second son of Patrick de Wolfe and has found himself in the position of the Great Protector of Edward I. With this position, Cassius has not been home for at least two years and he desperately wants to visit his Grandmother Jordan and his father. On the way home, they find a village and stop for food and refreshments.
Dacia of Doncaster is an heiress with an exceptionally large fortune; but she is a woman that hides her beauty under veils over her face. Just because she has an overabundance of freckles, most men believe that she is ugly and unwanted. Her life is lonely and unwanted. Kathryn has provided us with a wonderful, interesting romance with the best cast of a noble knight, a loving young lady, and a superb cast of supporting characters. Another wonderful adventure and great read.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cassius De Wolfe is the King’s Lord Protector and ostensibly the most handsome man in England. On the way to visit with Cassius’s family with his friends and Argus his big ugly dog, make a stop at Doncaster to deliver a message from the King to the Duke. It turns out to be very eventful. They encountered a festival, a land dispute turned ugly, and mercenaries attacking the village. Cassius meets Dacia, the Duke’s granddaughter, and is immediately smitten. The lovely young woman is a healer, kind and caring, but shy due to her freckles (apparently the locals are superstitious about the marks on her face). She finds Cassius strong and brave, but gentle and understanding as well. This is a story with danger, adventure, romance and family. Cassius’s grandmother Jordan makes the ending absolutely smile worthy. An enjoyable read that I recommend.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

[Pam E · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of emotional struggle

This story reminds us how cruel some people can be. Overcoming superstition and falling in love at the same time is not for the faint of heart. What beliefs are ingrained become huge obstacles to overcome. Fortunately love can conquer many things that have gone wrong. Le Veque knows how to deliver these matters of deep seated fears and emotions so that we feel like we are right in the room with characters who feel like the our long time friends. We are so invested in her stories because her families have become ours! I love all her stories! This one is especially wonderful in that Cassius runs deep, he' has empathy and emotions that surpass most men. He may be handsome but he's not just another pretty face!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strong knight and a lovely lady...

Cassius de Wolfe, Lord Protector of King Edward meets Dacia de Reyes when he stops to deliver a message to her grandfather from the king. Davis is a sweet lady who has been made to feel inferior due to her freckles by first her nurse then her spiteful cousin. Cass discovers a beautiful woman under the veil she wears to hide her blemishes. Through some trials and tribulations the fall in love. Kathryn le Veque is a well known and very talented author of many medieval tales of Knights and the ladies they are destined to love. Every single book I have read by her has been an epic story of heroism, grace and strength. I never tire of her knights and their ladies

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

CASSIUS FIGHTS FOR LOVE
The King's Lord Protector, Cassius de Wolfe, is on one last mission for the king before he can head home to see his grandmother. The king needs money and Cassius will negotiate with the Duke of Doncaster to get it. His first encounter with the Duke's granddaughter, Dacia, is instigated by his dog, Argos. Cassius has never had a problem with the ladies, but Dacia will take all his wit and charm to win her over. His one night visit turns into more when mercenaries try to storm the castle and attack the village. When he is wounded, Dacia devotes herself to saving his life. Little does he know he will devote himself to saving hers. An emotional love story that will constantly test Cassius and Dacia's love. Never disappointed with a Le Veque book.

[Nancy Yohe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Removing the veil.

Cassius de Wolfe is Lord Protector to the King. He is visiting one of the king’s supporters to deliver a message and ask for his financial support for the king. He only expected to stay overnight but plans change. Dacia is grand-daughter to the Duke Cassius is visiting. She has been tormented her whole life because of the freckles on her face that were often called witches marks. So she keeps her face hidden from others. But Cassius changed that. This book has a lot going on. A Jealous cousin, mercenaries, plotting neighbors, attacks, lies and manipulation, wounds, an accidental poisoning, and a love for all time. As usual, lots of familiar characters from the de Wolfe family. Cassius is the beauty of the family and he has finally met his match.