Anne and Charles: Passion and Politics in Late Medieval France: The Story of Anne of Brittany's Marriage to Charles VIII

Anne is only eleven years old when she inherits the Duchy of Brittany. Born to rule, Anne has no intention of marrying anyone less than a ruler himself. However, Brittany is threatened by war on all sides and in 1488, more than one suitor would claim the lovely Anne and all her fertile lands for themselves, including Charles VIII of France.  Charles offers her one last chance to preserve Brittany’s independence - marriage to him. Determined to be a good wife and Queen, Anne is everything Charles needs. Yet despite the love they share, Charles is haunted by bad habits he cannot shake, and foolish dreams of conquest. As Anne and Charles’ shared passion leads to pregnancies one after another that end in disaster, they begin to wonder if fate is really so cruel and if their dream of children will never be fulfilled.

A romance for the ages, Ms. Gaston masterfully conveys the passion, heartbreak, and determination of this royal couple. “Anne and Charles” gives a fictional perspective of the only Queen of France to be crowned twice. In this first book, readers are introduced to a young Duchess with an older and wiser soul. While both Anne and Charles have their flaws, Ms. Gaston masterfully conveys the passion, heartbreak, and determination of this royal couple. With excellent flow, organization, and character development, the only detraction is how much of the fighting and political maneuvering happens off screen. Still, lovers of strong women, kings and queens, historical events, and sensual encounters will find themselves eagerly awaiting the next installment in this series.

Sarah E Bradley