The Importance of Sons: Chronicles of the House of Valois

An irresistible 16th century tale of intrigue, rivalry and friendship filled with fascinating characters and a compelling plot.

-Roberta Rich, Internationally bestselling author of The Midwife of Venice Trilogy

Whose Son will be King?

In 1491, France conquers Brittany. As part of the peace treaty, fifteen-year-old Duchess Anne must marry the young French king. She arrives in France, defeated, homesick and surrounded by enemies. Once the ruler of her duchy, her only value and duty as queen is to provide an heir. With only her pride to sustain her, can Anne make a place for herself in her enemy's court?

All France rejoices when Charles-Orland is born-except one woman. Countess Louise d'Angoulême resents the tiny, beguiling Queen Anne from the moment they meet. The countess is determined that her son shall reign. When the king sets off for Italy, his sights set on conquest, he appoints his sister as regent. Countess Louise, using her considerable skills for intrigue, grasps the opportunity to challenge the queen.

Because her husband's sister orchestrated the defeat of Brittany, Anne detests the woman. Yet the king relies on his sister, so she holds the key to the king's confidence. Can Anne put aside her anger to make his sister an ally?

Most important of all, can she protect her children from Louise's determination that her son will be the next king? Whose son will succeed to the throne?

Based on the eventful life of Anne, beloved Duchess of Brittany and influential Queen of France, this is the riveting story of a dangerous rivalry between two strong women in a man's world and sets the stage for The Importance of Pawns.



Lovers of historical fiction will be delighted by this rich portrayal of an overlooked Renaissance queen and her courtiers. Great for fans of: Elizabeth Chadwick, Alison Weir.

-Booklife Review, 2022