Books On Board
series Reading Order

Dragonblade Books in Order

14 Books
2 Reading orders
2005 – 2023 Published
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Reading order

The Recommended Reading Paths

Kathryn Le Veque’s Dragonblade is a cornerstone of medieval historical romance, transporting readers to an era of fierce knights, political machinations, and sweeping love stories. Because the books weave together and feature recurring characters from different noble families, choosing where to start can feel daunting. Fortunately, you have two main options: chronological order or publication order.

The Chronological Reading Order (Recommended)

Reading the series chronologically allows you to follow the generational saga of the de Lara and St. Hever families in the order the events actually occurred. This path provides the most seamless transition for character growth and political developments across the 13th and 14th centuries.

  1. Fragments of Grace (2013): Set in 1291 A.D., this prequel introduces Keir de Lara, laying the emotional and historical foundation for the family's legacy.
  2. Dragonblade (2014): Set in 1326 A.D., the core novel of the series focuses on Tate de Lara, the illegitimate son of Edward I, as he protects young Edward III while falling for Elizabetha "Toby" Cartingdon.
  3. Island of Glass (2012): Set in 1333 A.D., this story follows Sir Kenneth St. Hever, a seasoned knight who must manage the bold Lady Aubrielle Grace di Witney.
  4. The Savage Curtain (2005): Set in 1333 A.D. shortly after the Battle of Halidon Hill, this novel follows Sir Stephen of Pembury and his forced political marriage to Lady Joselyn de Velt Seton.
  5. The Fallen One (2013): Set in 1332 A.D. (overlapping slightly with the events of the surrounding books), this story centers on Sir Mathias de Reyne, a stripped knight living as a blacksmith, and Lady Cathlina de Lara.
  6. Queen of Lost Stars (2016): Continuing the family lines, this installment follows the sensual romance between Madelayne Gray d'Ebreux and Sir Kaspian St. Hever.
  7. The Phantom Bride (2023): A short story originally featured in the "A Midnight Requiem" gothic anthology, adding a ghostly, atmospheric touch to the extended lore.

The Publication Reading Order

If you prefer to read the books in the order Kathryn Le Veque wrote and released them, follow this list. This path lets you experience how the author naturally expanded her medieval world, starting with an early release that she later integrated into the broader narrative tapestry.

  1. The Savage Curtain (2005)
  2. Island of Glass (2012)
  3. Fragments of Grace (2013)
  4. The Fallen One (2013)
  5. Dragonblade (2014)
  6. Queen of Lost Stars (2016)
  7. The Phantom Bride (2023)

Understanding the World of Dragonblade

One of the most common points of confusion for new readers is the name "Dragonblade" itself. It refers to two distinct things: Kathryn Le Veque's personal medieval romance series, and Dragonblade Publishing, the independent publishing house she founded. When browsing online retail stores, you will see hundreds of historical romance books labeled under "Dragonblade." Most of these are written by other authors published by her company. To follow the narrative of Tate, Kenneth, and their comrades, you must specifically look for books written by Kathryn Le Veque within her personal series.

Chivalry, Family, and Crossovers

Le Veque’s books are famous for their interconnectedness. Characters from the Dragonblade series frequently cross over into her other series, such as the de Wolfe Packs or the Executioner Knights. While the books are technically standalones—meaning each story features a self-contained romance with a resolved ending—reading them in order enhances your appreciation of the background characters, family trees, and recurring historical conflicts.

What to Know Before You Start

The series is set against the backdrop of 14th-century England, Scotland, and Wales during the tumultuous reigns of Edward I, Edward II, and Edward III. Le Veque blends meticulous research with high-stakes drama, featuring real historical battles (such as Berwick and Halidon Hill) and political figures. The tone is passionate, sometimes gritty, and full of historical detail. Expect strong-willed heroines who challenge medieval norms, and honorable, battle-hardened heroes who find redemption in love.

Frequently Asked

QWhere is the best place to start reading the Dragonblade series?

The best place to start is with either the prequel Fragments of Grace (for a chronological start) or the flagship novel Dragonblade, which introduces the core characters and the de Lara family legacy.

QCan the Dragonblade books be read as standalones?

Yes. Each novel features a self-contained romance with a completed story and a happy ending. However, because characters and families cross over, reading them in order provides a richer experience.

QWhat is the difference between the Dragonblade series and Dragonblade Publishing?

The Dragonblade series refers to Kathryn Le Veque's specific medieval romance novels. Dragonblade Publishing is the independent publishing house she founded, which publishes books by many different authors.

QIs The Phantom Bride a full-length Dragonblade novel?

No. The Phantom Bride is a gothic short story originally published in the anthology A Midnight Requiem: The Ghostly Hour in 2022 and later associated with the series bibliography.

QWho are the main families featured in the Dragonblade series?

The series primarily follows the noble descendants and allies of the de Lara and St. Hever family lines, starting with Tate de Lara, the illegitimate son of Edward I.

QDo I need to read other Kathryn Le Veque series to understand Dragonblade?

No. While there are fun crossover characters from her other sagas, the Dragonblade books can be fully understood and enjoyed on their own.