I started liking it and then the main couple were together after only half of the book. Jac was needy and mediocre and unfortunately the other characters were shallow as she took up all the space. The magic was haphazardly thrown in too.

A Traitorous Heart was everything I hoped for and more! I absolutely loved this novel, and one of the standout features for me was the excellent LGBTQ+ representation. The story was full of French court politics, drama, romance, a love triangle, and so much more. It gave me strong Reign vibes, and I think fans of the show will definitely enjoy this book.

The love triangle had me on the edge of my seat, constantly wondering what would happen next. I also really enjoyed the characters, especially Jac—they were such a fun and engaging character. The plot was well-paced, keeping me hooked from start to finish.

My only complaint was that the romance felt a little rushed. I would have liked a slower build to it, but overall, this was still a solid 4-star read. Well done!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

4.5/5 ⭐

Plot
Set in the tumultuous French court of 1572, this historical romance follows 17-year-old Jacqueline “Jac” d’Argenson-Aunis, a lady-in-waiting to Princess Marguerite “Margot” de Valois and a member-in-training of the Societas Solis, a secretive spy organization. As tensions between Catholics and Huguenots threaten France, Jac is tasked with orchestrating a politically vital marriage between Margot and the arrogant King Henry. Despite her initial disdain for Henry, Jac’s growing feelings for him complicate her loyalties to Margot, her ambitions in the spy network, and her role in courtly intrigue. Amidst espionage, royal chaos, and hints of witchcraft, Jac must navigate her dangerous world, where love and betrayal intertwine. A queer retelling inspired by The Three Musketeers and Bridgerton, this tale combines passion, politics, and high-stakes drama.

Thoughts
This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2025, and I’m so thrilled to have received the ARC! I went in thinking it was a historical romance with a touch of mystery, but it surprised me by turning into a fantasy 😂.

Jac has quickly become one of my favourite female main characters. She is such a baddie and I love that!!! The romance between Jac and Henry gave me all the Bridgerton vibes. Henry’s love for Jac is so pure and overwhelming, much like Kate and Anthony’s dynamic, and my heart just cannot with these two 😭🫶🏻.
I also adored the bond between Margot and Jac. It’s so heartfelt, though I wish we had more backstory and scenes to explore their connection further. And can we talk about Oncle? He’s the sweetest, most protective uncle, and their family dynamic melted my heart.

Overall, this book was absolutely incredible, and I loved it so much! It definitely lived up to my expectations!!

Thank you NetGalley and Simon & Schuster Canada for sending me the arc!!

Release date: January 7, 2025