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de Reyne Domination #5

Master of the Dawn

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A flashy knight with a scandalous reputation and a much-pursued heiress find themselves tangled up in an unconventional love story.

But all is not as it seems.

Will hidden secrets destroy everything?

1195 A.D. - Sir Galen Burleson (from Guardian of Darkness ) has a love ‘em and leave ‘em reputation. Enormous and powerful, he is the captain of the army at Hexham Castle. Galen is in control of his life and his future until his dying father, tired of his son's roving ways, demands he marry. But Galen isn’t allowed a choice – his father already has a wealthy bride in Lady Lorica de la Beauvriere, the sole heiress of the St. Nicholas Court Castle fortune.

Aside from thinking that his father is mad, Galen has no intention of pursuing a woman who, by all accounts, is much-pursued already. He doesn’t need, or want, the competition. St. Nicholas Court is a powerful castle with old Norman money but Galen would prefer to chase women of his own choosing. However, his father finally confesses his reasons for the St. Nicholas Court heiress choice – the Burleson wealth, once substantial old Saxon wealth, is gone. But the reason why it is gone shocks Galen to the bone.

Now, he has no choice but to pursue the wealthiest unmarried woman he knows – Lady Lorica.

Lorica de la Beauvriere isn’t an ordinary lady. Highly educated and highly trained in a variety of feminine and non-feminine pursuits, she’s the smartest person in the room when suitors come to call. Her wit is biting, her manner brusque and superior, and Galen walks into a deluge of resistance and insults right from the start.

But that only serves to intrigue him.

And with that, a very unconventional love story is born.

Join Galen and Lorica on an adventure of a lifetime, where all is not as it seems, where dark secrets can crush, but also where love can repair the damage and divide. When Galen is called to battle and a young life is cut short, it’s Lorica who finally understands what it is to love and be loved.

And Galen who decides that Lorica is the only woman for him.

( this book is tied to Guardian of Darkness and all three de Reyne brothers make an appearance)

301 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2022

282 people are currently reading
180 people want to read

About the author

Kathryn Le Veque

324 books2,083 followers
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.

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5 stars
785 (76%)
4 stars
171 (16%)
3 stars
57 (5%)
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5 (<1%)
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7 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Margaret Watkins.
3,547 reviews88 followers
October 30, 2022
Fast-paced, emotive, and romantic, this novel drew me in from the opening pages. Lady Lorica is well known for her beauty and intelligence and whilst her father may appear to be nurturing towards her in allowing her to reject the advances by noble knights, he is in fact holding out for the highest bidder, thereby making her a pawn in his own unscrupulous game. When meeting her, Sir Galen is attracted to Lorica but has no intention of allowing himself to become enamored of her as he still has a lot of living to do. However, upon the death of Galen's father, he discovers some awful truths, including the fact that his father has betrothed him to Lorica. Forced into marriage with the giant knight, known as the Master of the Dawn, Lorica agrees to enter marriage with Galen, but on their terms, with disastrous consequences. Finding themselves having to manage a chaotic set of circumstances, the newlyweds are forced to put their heads together and Galen discovers that his wife is not only beautiful but incredibly resourceful as well. Just when they think they have a solution, a new disaster looms, and once again they are faced with heartache and pain. I found myself tearing up on more than one instance whilst reading this romance, and was glad that ultimately this book came to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novel through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Profile Image for Petula.
3,085 reviews86 followers
October 21, 2022
Both our heroine, Lady Lorica de Beauvriere and our hero Sir Galen Burleson are seen as most desirable by marriage minded parents looking for matches for their sons or daughters. They are both beautiful, accomplished and wealthy. Neither of them though have any interest in marriage.  They are busy enjoying the lives they have now.  

Interfering fathers,  secrets and lies are about to cause havoc in both thier lives.  

This medieval romance will take you from the highs of giggling over the antics of the men to the lows of death and despair.  Our author always knows knows how to wring all emotion from her readers.  Every single character in the book is a star in their own right.  Some you will meet in other books but every book can be read on it's own.  Be warned once you pick up ANY book by this author you will struggle to put it down until the end.  Even if it's the middle of the night and you're going cross-eyed.  

I loved every page. 
Profile Image for Carole Burant.
1,277 reviews36 followers
November 1, 2022
That ending....yes, I'm still bawling! I should know better, a box of tissues is always useful when reading a Kathryn Le Veque book! lol I was absolutely encaptured by Galen and Lorica's story and it kept my interest from start to finish.

Galen is a very honourable knight and when he's forced to marry Lady Lorica, little does he realize she's the best thing that could ever happen to him. I loved their witty banter and to watch them fall in love....sigh! Between the war raging on with Scotland and the lack of funds in both families, life can certainly become quite interesting!!

Well written and definitely another 5 star rating from me!
Profile Image for Lori D.
4,079 reviews130 followers
November 1, 2022
An exceptional strong knight and a beautiful lady are brought together in
an unexpected way. An arranged marriage!

As always Kathryn pulls us into her magical world and makes us laugh and cry!!
Profile Image for Margaret.
3,194 reviews34 followers
February 4, 2023
Sir Galen Burleson is a fierce and respected knight. He must contend with an unreasonable father and a betrothed that he wants no part of, until he finds out the reason why.
Lady Lorica de la Beauvriere is just as surprised when she is betrothed to Galen. Her father is also unreasonable in his demand for the marriage. It's the only solution when he tells her why. Two strangers are married, but find that the situation is worse than they thought. As Galen and Lorica look for a solution, the Scots invade England and bring unexpected pain. Anticipation mounts as you turn each page to find joy mixed with grief.
Heat level 3
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book
Profile Image for Vee.
715 reviews204 followers
December 2, 2023
3,5 stars

Tropes : Arranged marriage, historical romance, action, romantic suspense
Ending : HEA (epilogue set years later with them having kids)
Triggers : death, gore, violence, suicide
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
Angst: 🔥🔥🔥/5
OM/OW drama: none
Celibate while separated: yes (the H went to fight the Scotts for 3 months)
Standalone/Series: part of a series but can be read as a standalone

Hero: Galen Burleson (30s)
Heroine: Lorica de la Beauvriere (20s)

The book opened up with both MCs met and started of on a wrong foot, the h, Lorica was prickly at first and Galen was sorta didn't care about what Lorica thought of him and thought she was just a spoilt heiress.

Then they talked a bit more and both felt intrigued with each other. But a little misunderstanding happened and Lorica stomped away from Galen. Weeks later Galen was summoned home because apparently his dad was dying and he confessed all their riches were gone, taken away by a physician's fam that came to treat his disease.

The dad arranged a marriage between Galen and Lorica in hope for de la Beauvriere wealth to restore his castle. Little did they know Lorica's dad was hoping for the same thing, they were far from rich as well, their wealth depleted for quite some time and they owe people money, so they were hoping for Galen's family fortune to help them out.

Right after they got married, Galen was told by his best friend that de la Beauvriere was poor and they were trying to use him the way he was trying to use them. He confronted Lorica's dad and both he and Lorica confessed. Her dad tried to get them to annul their marriage but both refused.

They tried to make the marriage work and everything was pretty good until one day Galen was called to Hexam to help fight the Scotts. He spent 3 months there and that's when the tragedy struck. He lost his best friend and after he buried his bestie, he came back home to find out Lorica pregnant. So there was pain and joy, mixed feelings he felt at that time. Epilogue set a couple years later when they have kids, 8 in total.

For me, this is a pretty good read but the love confession or built up could be executed better. It felt a little bit rushed and lacking.

Nonetheless I enjoyed this a lot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3,250 reviews33 followers
October 29, 2022
Master of the Dawn by Kathryn Le Veque is a middle ages’ romance, different than many, but with the same feel as all of her novels. It had a cute twist right off the bat when two old man arrange a betrothal between their children, both believing they are saving their family by marrying into a rich family to help restore their coffers. You can imagine when the reality present itself. Galen finds himself in a fix but being the man he is, her never backs down from any challenge, nor will he back down from this one. He didn’t want to get married, but now presented with the opportunity, he has changed his mind and vows to do his best for his bride. Lorica, as well, had no desire to marry and her first two meetings with Galen (before the betrothal) had not gone well. Now she was as committed as he was and vowed to make it work. Then they returned to her home after their wedding night they found a mess of epic proportions, one they must clean up. So, they got started.

Galen, as are all of Le Veque’s heroes, was a large man, but could be gentle. He was a warrior’s warrior and had firm friendships. He was a knight at a castle not his father’s. He had been invited home many times, but enjoyed his independence. Lorica was a most beautiful woman. Her father had paraded her in front of many men but never balked when she expressed disinterest. She was very surprised when he announced her betrothal, but being the obedient daughter, she proceeded. What she could never have dreamed is just what a perfect match it was to be. She discovered her was not at all what he seemed to be and she loved him for it. It was a lovely romance. Thank you, Kathryn.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Master of the Dawn by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #KatherynLeVeque #MasterOfTheDawn
Profile Image for Viper Spaulding.
3,147 reviews25 followers
October 29, 2022
Sheer perfection!

Oh, how I love to escape into a Kathryn Le Veque romance! This time, we have a pair of deceiving fathers trying to solve their own problems by arranging the marriage of their children. Neither Galen nor Lorica know of this arranged marriage until it's all said and done, and neither knows the secret their father is hiding until it's too late to do anything about it. Pride is a harsh taskmaster, but Galen and Lorica put honor and integrity above all else and vow to make the best of the extremely tenuous situation they find themselves in.

I loved every little thing about this book - the deep, abiding brotherhood between the male characters, the so very relatable dog army and their sleeping arrangements, the bond between Lorica and her sister, and even the solution to their financial situation took me back to my favorite Heath Ledger movie.

If you want advance notice of the heartbreaking part of the book, be sure to read the author's note at the beginning. If you don't want that bit spoiled before the end of the book, make sure you skip that part.

Galen truly is the Master of the Dawn - the master of a new day, a time of new leadership for two strong castles who are facing unprecedented hard times. He's the best man for such a task, and Lorica is uniquely qualified to partner with him to restore their properties. I am always impressed with the depth of character in Le Veque's heroes and heroines, and this couple is especially noteworthy for their honesty and cooperative teamwork.

One of this author's best works, it's a must read for anyone who loves medieval romances, swashbuckling heroes, and legendary love stories. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Crystal Butler.
518 reviews3 followers
October 22, 2024
Sweet story

There was a battle between Mount Holyoak of Yorkshire home of the Stoneley family and House of de Ros from Kendal Castle. De Ros was felt insulted and vowed revenge because his son was enamored with a Stoneley daughter who ended up marrying someone else. Even though Mount Holyoak was a monstrous castle and impenetrable from attack he called upon his allies for assistance. It didn’t take long to end the battle with Hexham, Prudhoe and Bowes Castle assisting. The truth was no one liked the de Ros of Cumbria.After the battle the all went to the castle for a victory feast.

Lady Lorica de la Beauvriere was a beauty and her sister Lady Thelica de la Beauvriere were daughters of sir Everard and Lady Monica of Mount Holyoak. They were on the way down to join the feast. Lady Lorica’s five big dogs followed behind her as was usual when she went anywhere, they were great protectors as some had found out. She had 11 in all. There was also 2 other ladies that lived there Lady Casilda and Lady Audrey, Lady Monica had taken them under her wing.

Galen the commander at Hexam castle and the heir to Tadcastle was there with the de Reyne brothers and others. His father was also there. Little did he know he was contracting with Lorica’s father a marriage between Lorica and Galen.
1,634 reviews15 followers
November 1, 2022
When you read this story, I urge you to not read the author's note until you've finished the story.

She tells about how a secondary character in her story, GUARDIAN OF DARKNESS was killed off. The person killed is a main secondary character in this whole story. I read Guardian of Darkness in 2015 and trust me I have no recollection who died. So knowing that this amazing character was going to be killed, ruined it for me.

In the beginning the H/h are equal in their come backs to each other. There build up was slow and had a fantastic twists what each of their fathers did. Don't think I've ever read that twist before and it was thrilling how it was revealed to each.

Strong main and secondary character's written with such depth you could feel their emotions. KLV is one of my favorite author's and she certainly knows how to bring her characters to life. But, more importantly that the reader has the best experience reading.

Romance builds slowly, great banter, love making within marriage heat level 3 out of 5. The Lord's name is used in vain.

Very suspenseful, twists, intrigue, violence, heart wrenching, no cheating, no cliffhanger and tad of steam.

I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some tidbits to decide to read this amazing story. (ljb)
1,062 reviews
October 24, 2023
Good book

I really liked the romance between Galen & Lorica. Their initial meeting started off with mutual attraction for each other but ended where she thought he was rude, arrogant and wasn’t interested in her. Then they were brought together in marriage by their fathers. Their relationship then blossomed into mutual respect and eventually, love. They are so sweet to each other. I love their fun conversations and how well they treat each other. They have some wonderful moments full of the feels. I found myself smiling at their flirting and teasing moments.
There were parts that were a little tough for me based on personal preference that I’m sure majority of the people wouldn’t mind. I like my MC’s not to struggle about $ and they had their share of worries and struggles. In retrospect, by the end of the book, it didn’t seem so bad but was a little tough as I read it. I just overstressed for them. Also, it was tough for me to get to know Galen’s best friend, Lennox, whom I know from the beginning that he dies at a young age.
But even with all that, I can see me reading it again and the 2nd time would be stress free for me since I know it will all work out at the end.
I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Cherie S.
1,099 reviews19 followers
October 20, 2022
Battles, Warriors, Betrayals, Love:
This incredible love story starts with a chaotic beginning where we meet Galen a dynamic warrior like no other and Lorica the most beautiful lady in the realm and her pack of dogs.
Lenox is so joyous and fun along with being Galen's best friend.
Thelica is the sister to Lorica and she has much sadness in her young life.
Needless to say, there is a deep plot which brings out the good and evil in several of the characters.
The love story is captivating and passionate with Galen who comes across so strong, honest, and caring. Manliness and desire just rips through his veins towards the beautiful Lorica who is also cautious yet forgiving.
The authors writing skills had me engrossed and made me feel like I was right there. Many times, I was not only chuckling but laughing out loud, yelling at the character, and OMG crying full tears. 
A thrilling beautiful emotional love story that be advised to get out the box of tissue.
This author knows how to capture your heart and soul in one of her stories.
Adult Advisory:
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest review.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
7 reviews
January 8, 2024
The queen of medieval writing does it again

Over the years I have read a good amount of books, including Master of the Dawn, a few years ago. Although having read many good books, every so often I have to return and read a book by the master Kathryn Le Veque. I long for the first lengthy books she wrote and return to them often, when I feel the need for a truly great book. Master of the Dawn is one of them. It’s like coming home to a setting that is familiar, recognizing old houses and distinguished knights. My only regret is that they never seem long enough, leaving you wanting more. The story embraces honor, love, and deceit, and speaks of the human condition, overall a suspenseful, excellent and detailed portrayal of a medieval world. Do yourself a favor and read one of her many excellent writings. Needless to say I highly recommend this book, as a matter of fact grab a cup of tea or wine and pick any of her masterful stories. If you have never read any of Kathryn’s books you have truly missed great and fulfilling entertainment.
Profile Image for &#x1f989;Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
October 22, 2022
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
💋💋

This book was awesome!

Kathryn obviously has drawn on all her passion and experience of this genre and given us another epic medieval romance, one that describes battles, romance and stunning characters.

Galen is a great character who endears himself to the reader more and more throughout the book.
His lady is Lorica, he’s obviously struck by her beauty and intelligence from the start, she by his stature, honor and integrity.
The two match so well.

Gade’s friends are the de Reign brothers, Ryton, Creed and his ever present best friend Lennox, who you will come to love so much through this story.

I can’t remember when I’ve cried so much at any book, yes Kathryn does her best to drag every emotion out of the reader and succeeds with flying colours.
So make sure you have a few tissues ready.

Excellent book and writing, exciting, entertaining and enjoyable. What more could you ask for.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
Profile Image for Kat Green.
1,147 reviews19 followers
November 18, 2022
Lennox and Gade

Well, once again, Kathryn Le Veque had me running for my box of tissues. Kathryn always describes her characters and their lives so well that a perceptive reader will be able to fell the story, to feel the emotions of the characters as if they were there. Galen and Lennox were as close as brothers, the very best of friends even though Lennox had an unmatched joy for life that often caused bit of frustration in Galen and Lennox’s brothers as they were all more serious about life. If you’ve never read any of Kathryn’s books, then you definitely should! Over the years, I believe I’ve read almost every one. She’s created a medieval dynasty with numerous Houses, Kings and heroes! Of course there is always romance involved since we have hunky men wandering around with the bodies of gods. I highly recommend this Medieval Romance as well as all other books by Kathryn Le Veque. ❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for Rachel Smith Horn.
304 reviews2 followers
February 23, 2024
Galen is an honored knight with a sterling reputation. His father decides to barter that in order to save Tadcaster because Galen's father's mistress stole Romney, the father, blind. Little did Romney know, Lady Lorica's family was broke as well. Galen doesn't know that when he enters the marriage, but he feels terrible for the deception. So much so, that after the wedding he gives Lady Lorica an opportunity to back out and then the total truth comes out. Well, these two crazy kids decide to stay together and try to work things out. I loved them as a couple, really made me smile. Their parents were a piece of work, but the kids were alright.

La Veque writes such vivid characters, her stories are such a joy to read. Warning, though, the ending of this book will make you cry. It is a bummer, but life was rough back then.
1,030 reviews4 followers
November 5, 2022
Hope beyond loss.

Galen was a warrior, commander, and heir to Tadcaster. Lorica was the eldest daughter from a castle in secret poverty. Galen was told on his fathers death bed that he would inherit the Tadcaster castle and lands but all the money was stolen. To make up for it, his father betrothed him to Lorica thinking her inheritance would save him. Neither of their fathers knew the other was broke. However the pull between Galen and Lorica was strong enough for them to marry anyway and work together to get their estates profitable again. Their story is a sweet one yet there is grief and loss, separation, jealously, fierce battles, love and hope for the future.


137 reviews
October 30, 2022
Kathryn writes amazing stories full of strong respected men who value honesty and honor above everything. I loved Galen's character and how he handled the tough position his father placed him. Kathryn also includes strong friendships in her books, and the three de Reign brothers; Ryton, Creed, and Galen's best friend Lennox are there to supposrt and provide whatever help is needed.
Oh, the emotions Kathryn gives us - I will admit I cried and laughed.
Like Galen, Lady Lorica de la Beavriere is beautiful, smart, and knows she must marry someone to strengthen an alliance. These two fit together so well.
I received an ARC of this book and chose to post this review.
Profile Image for Judi Easley.
1,496 reviews48 followers
November 12, 2023
A worthy K le V tome.

Master of the Dawn is just what one would expect from the desk of Kathryn le Veque. Wonderful castles and the rolling hills of England. Handsome, strong knights, and lovely ladies, mostly virtuous. Some big secret or five that cause problems. And some chance for fighting. In this case, Galen, the handsome knight, and Lady Lorica, the much-sought-after maiden. A death, a contract, and a secret bring them together. Then another death and another secret make them evaluate their situation and decide on their path forward. Still, a third death gives them something to hold close for the future. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Jacquelyn Ward.
124 reviews5 followers
October 29, 2023
Absolutely stunning!

An absolutely stunning read. I started and finished it in one day because I just could not put it down. I love this author. This medieval time period that she chooses for a lot of her books is one of my favorites. The characters just jump off the pages. I mean, who doesn't like knights? This book had me laughing, crying and every emotion in between. I have yet to read a book by this author that I did not absolutely love. This book was no exception. I cannot recommend her books any more than I already do.
Profile Image for Kathy Tatum.
176 reviews
October 29, 2022
Poignant Exciting Novel

Heartwarming, Highlander adventure of love, joy, laughter but the deep gnawing depths of grief for great knights lost along the was. Galen Burleson had a complicated path to navigate throughout this novel. Galen navigated whatever came his way with great dignity, loyalty, trustworthiness and found love with Lorica
I was not ready for this story to end. I hope for one following these other great characters.

Profile Image for Gina Ann.
554 reviews2 followers
October 30, 2022
Always better than expected.....

Queen of medieval romance is this author. I await patiently for the next new release of her books and she never disappoints, Intense drama, laughter, Knight's in armor, characters that have chemistry even though they just met, sexy hot love scenes and most importantly the tissues have come out in every issue as this author has the ability too make a death scene so real it breaks my heart!! This author is blessed, next release?
Profile Image for Rainelle.
2,195 reviews123 followers
May 22, 2023
The writer did a terrific job with the story. The characters own personal stories matched to the plots logic. The book offers a good amount of entertainment from the characters. The humor and the communication among the characters keeps the story moving. The characters shares their emotions through their actions. The romance is charming and very sweet.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
4,133 reviews144 followers
January 12, 2024
Too Many Dogs🐕🐕🐕🐕!
ADULT Medieval🕍 Warfare🐺💪👊🗡🐎 and Adventure with Romance💕
I love dogs🐕 and have always had 1 or 2 but this woman in this book is over run with dogs and she allows them all over her bedding. Not!

That aspect of the story really turned me off.
The book did have a good story Other than that part of it which was a running thread throughout.

I got this e-book from Amazon with Kindle unlimited.
8 reviews
April 15, 2024
Another excellent story by Le Veque!

A great and emotional story, full of life and laughter! I laughed out loud at some of the antics of the characters! I cried along with the characters when they grieved. Kathryn has a way of sucking you into the story and when she gets her hooks in you, she doesn’t let go! An emotional roller coaster that will keep you reading long into the night!
801 reviews4 followers
November 21, 2022
a thundering good read.

As usual we are swept straight into medieval England so much you can almost smell it. I really enjoyed the story of Lorica and Galen as it took place in an area I know well . There was action , romance , sadness and suspense exactly what one expects from a Kathryn Le Veque novel. Highly entertaining.
52 reviews1 follower
November 23, 2022
Lenox the warrior

This was vey different from Kathryn's other stories. I loved the humor & how close Galen,Lenox & his brothers were. I also loved Lenox sense of humor. I was very sad when they found Lenox & actually cried when they shared their grief & pain. Good job since I have read everything you've wrote so far, looking forward to the next release on the 28th!
8 reviews
January 20, 2023
Crying,crying,crying

I enjoyed the story very much. I am glad I read the beginning from Kathryn so the death of Lenox was not such a shock, however it was still so sad to read. I think I cried from the the battle until the end. I especially liked the end when they both said that at the beginning when Lenox had his pants cut off, "I saw only you."
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews

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