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Anne of Brittany #4

Anne and Louis Forever Bound: The Final Years of Anne of Brittany's Marriage to Louis XII of France

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◆ Royalty ◆ Power ◆ Politics ◆ Love ◆ Struggle

★ First Place Winner of the 2022 Chaucer Book Awards by Chanticleer-CIBA

★Winner of the Highly Recommended award from The Historical Fiction Company

“A vibrant and dynamic retelling of Louis XII and Anne of Brittany’s life.” – Publishers Weekly BookLife Prize

The year is 1508. Louis XII , King of France, wants to stamp France’s footprint upon Italy. Anne of Brittany , Queen of France, and ruler of neighboring realm Brittany, wants to produce a son and heir for Louis and to save the independence of Brittany from France. Louise of Savoy , the mother of the king’s intended successor, the future Francis I , wants to see her son on the throne of France. All three have suffered the twisting of their fates by Anne de Beaujeu , the spider king’s daughter, who ruled France from 1483-1491. Two shake off her shadow; one does not. One sees their dreams come true; two do not. But in this game of thrones, winners lose and losers win the greatest prize of all. Anne and Louis Forever Bound is the standalone fourth and final novel of the award-winning Anne of Brittany Series. Click the BUY NOW button at top and discover Anne and Louis' final dilemma today.

398 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2023

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About the author

Rozsa Gaston

19 books102 followers
ROZSA GASTON writes books on women who reach for what they want out of life. Her focus is on 16th century European female rulers.

GASTON studied history at Yale, and then received her master's degree in international affairs from Columbia. She lives in Bronxville, NY with her family. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest on special offers. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rozsa...

Her motto? History matters.

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5 stars
84 (59%)
4 stars
46 (32%)
3 stars
9 (6%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Susan Abernethy.
Author 4 books53 followers
May 13, 2021
Gaston's best yet.

Gaston has done it again. The book delivers delicious and vivid detail of a royal romance with plenty of 16th century Renaissance French and European history, intrigue in the background and strong women characters. Lovers of historical fiction will find it a splendid and enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Keira Morgan.
Author 3 books51 followers
June 20, 2021
This last volume of the entwined story of Anne, Queen of France and Duchess of Brittany, and King Louis XII of France begins in 1508. It is a time of troubles for Louis and France. The relationship between Anne and Louis sizzles with drama as their opposite political views place a strain on the deep love they share. Gaston brings their conflict to life with such intensity and keeps up the drama that I couldn't put the book down. Bravo for her fortissimo closing to a dramatic era in French history. Anne, still remembered as the "Good Duchess" of Brittany and Louis, The Father of His People, have been overlooked for far too long in historical fiction written in English. I highly recommend this novel.

In the interests of full disclosure, Rosza and I have spoken via Facebook. She and I both write books about the same French Renaissance era. I have no compensation of any kind for this review which reflects my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Fyo.
101 reviews16 followers
August 24, 2021
Before I begin this review, I need to apologize for its lateness. I fully intended to have this book finished and reviewed in May, but family health issues and my own employment situation took up so much of my time this summer that I'm yet again late with my writing schedule.

I received a free ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. I was also personally asked for a review by the author, Rozsa Gaston.

Rozsa Gaston's series following the life of Anne of Brittany reaches its conclusion in Forever Bound, beginning in 1508 and ending in 1514 with Anne's untimely death at 36.  

The easiest way to begin is to look at what I liked. There are more narrative scenes and Anne has a much stronger personality than in the previous book and the ones before it. Claude has a whole chapter to herself, which will win me over any day. The eponymous Anne and Louis have a nuanced marriage -- loving and supportive, though often strained by their roles as politicians with contradicting goals. I loved the references to Louis's family, including his grandmother Valentina Visconti (appearing here as a painting Louis talks to for advice) and his father Charles d'Orleans, who I've written about my love for on this blog before. This ties in with the increased emphasis on family bonds, which is explored through Anne's fight for her daughters' inheritances, the loss of Louis's nephew Gaston of Foix, and Louise of Savoy's scheming for her own children.

Anne herself has some excellent moments-- especially with other characters. Her confrontation with Louis over his fight with the pope stands out, especially when she snaps and says she's not going to risk the souls of their subjects (France was facing the possibility of being placed under interdict, which would bar all subjects from taking part in the sacraments), and that Louis only cares about the Chruch when it's on his side. Her interrogation of a suspected spy in the household is also done well and has some great tension, and her finally meeting with her rival Louise of Savoy is also a delight. 

This brings me to some issues I had with Anne and Louis.

My major issue with this book is one I have with most historical fiction, including my own attempts-- it is overwhelmingly exposition, with very little action. Most of the major events are related to us by the narrator, rather than through scenes of a story, and what events are deemed important enough to actually show is uneven. Hete we have scenes of the cook and kitchen maid discussing Anne's matchmaking, but the Battle of Saint-Mathieu and the loss of the Marie-la-Cordelière, one of the great tragedies of the era, as well as the reactions of Anne and Louis, are only described. I got the feeling I was reading a textbook rather than historical fiction. The dialog was decent but stilted-- Anne's habit of addressing Louis as "husband" was especially grating and made me glad when most of their conversations were over.

My second issue is with the portrayal of Louise of Savoy. Louise is Anne's main rival, now that Anne of Bejeau is no longer the major player she was in French politics. I don't object to portraying them as rivals, they obviously were, but I would liked to have seen a more nuanced take on Louise. She's the designated villain in this story, and I would accept that as just being from Anne's perspective except the book is from multiple third-person points of view. Louise was a rival to Anne, yes, and she was dedicated to her son (to the point of overprotective) but I think she had reason to be-- she was widowed at a young age with two small children, in a precarious political situation.

There's a lot you could do to compare her with Anne of Brittany, and nearing the end, Anne does realize that she also would do anything for her son had he lived, and she's already doing whatever she can for her daughters. A major issue that I found Anne and Louis XII dealing with was that they wanted what was best for their countries and those goals put them at odds, especially over their children, even though they want what's best for Claude and Renée. Louise is the same, we just don't get to sympathize with her.

Anne and Louis is a good read for people interested in the era and the people, especially those who want a general overview given in a narrative format. Thanks again to NetGalley for the ARC and thanks to Rozsa for being interested in my feedback!
Profile Image for Christine Cazeneuve.
1,610 reviews44 followers
March 18, 2021
Thank you to Net Galley, Rozsa Gaston and the publisher for granting me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. What a terrific book - easy to read and you will learn much about their relationship. I couldn't put the book down. If you are a fan of any kind of monarchy history - this is a must read!
Profile Image for RainLady777.
146 reviews
July 12, 2021
I couldn't wait for this to come out and I wasn't disappointed. I think my favorite in the series was the second one, and although I like this one, I didn't think it was the best of all her books. But nevertheless, the magic is still there! Hence the five stars. This is a great author who writes great books.
Profile Image for Kate Eminhizer .
524 reviews
April 13, 2021
This book is a very readable account of the later years of Anne of Brittany and King Louis XII of France. While the book can be read as a standalone, some cursory knowledge of the couple and/or the time period is extremely beneficial to following all of the character dynamics. Anne is characterized as the more conscientious of the two. While Louis seemed to be antagonistic in international and religious affairs, Anne was more level headed. Anne ensured the continuity of her family's rule of the Duchy of Brittany by her capable diplomacy while serving as both Duchess of Brittany and Queen of France. She was ever aware of her need to produce a male heir of France. Although she was unable to do so, her and Louis' daughter Claude became the Queen consort of France upon Louis' death. The author Gaston shows a couple in love that are each aware of their individual responsibilities to each other, themselves, and to their people.
I received a copy of this title via NetGalley.
Profile Image for Cate Hogan.
Author 6 books7 followers
May 20, 2021
I love historical fiction but I hadn't read much about Anne or her reign, prior to this series. Anne is an extraordinary figure for many personal and political reasons (I'll omit specifics, for those who want to avoid spoilers!) and I loved exploring her loves, losses, and triumphs. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Theresa.
8,565 reviews140 followers
May 12, 2021
Anne and Louis Forever Bound
By Rozsa Gaston
This remarkable author looks at historical figures as human. She shows the political stories that are caused by human choices. The individual that is the historical figure has a personal story that is colored by history.
Profile Image for Rebecca Hill.
Author 1 book65 followers
May 18, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! It was a quick and easy read. The writer does a fabulous job in weaving in the lives of those who are the major players, and bringing these characters a breath of fresh air. Perfect for those who love historical fiction - this is a great weekend read!
Profile Image for D.K. Marley.
Author 7 books95 followers
December 21, 2021
For the sake of France, his duty was to ensure Brittany would be folded into France one day to prevent a Habsburg-Breton hedge around his kingdom. As for his own deepest desire, he knew well that Anne would do whatever she could to dash his Italian aspirations, thinking his time better spent at home. Both were invested in defeating each other’s dearest dreams. Yet he couldn’t imagine life without her.

You’ve heard the expression ‘a man’s man’, well this is a ‘historical’s historical’, meaning that Gaston’s book teaches a lesson about plot-driven, third-person POV historical fiction writing, fluxing with ease between fleshing out believable characters to engaging the reader with well-researched and complex prose, albeit at times lengthy with moments of slight irritating ‘telling’ instead of ‘showing’. However, you can see and feel the authenticity which is a hallmark of good historical fiction.

So many historical characters are lost in the stream of time, so I was intrigued to read the story of Anne of Brittany (Queen of France) and her husband, Louis XII. This fourth book in the series focuses on Anne while she is Queen. Living in an era when most women lose any authority of control over any possessions once they marry, Anne’s marriage to Louis allows her autonomy over Brittany which is near and dear to her heart; yet, her greatest tragedy to date (1508) is the inability to produce a viable heir to her husband’s throne – a son to reign after him and to maintain Brittany’s independence. She pines the loss of her ‘princes’, ones lost in childbirth or at an early age, while she seeks to manuever her daughters into marriages which will suit the kingdom.

In all this, her rival, Louise of Savoy, and Louise’s son, Francis I, (Louis’ intended heir if he produces no son of his own), hover in the shadows eager to see Anne fail in producing a son. Of course, so is the way in politics and breeding in the royal households throughout England and France’s history, so it is not surprising that Louise devises whatever means necessary to see her own son take the throne. The dream of becoming ‘Madame la Grande of France’ spurs her onward.

In your belly lies a future king. What powerful words those were, enough to hang one’s dreams on.

But Louis has his own obsession, as well, and that is his dream to invade Italy and rule Milan, fulfilling his claimed birthright, but Anne knows if he leaves for the fight, their chances to bear a son fades with each passing sunset.
Again, with so many of the scenarios of royal histories following the vein of political intrigue and religious interference, Pope Julius II enacts a treaty with Venice, prompting Louis to take his own action – that of replacing the Pope with his own choice, a decision which will, no doubt, lead to his excommunication... and lead to Anne’s fury.

As a character, Anne is an incredible complex and strong character, leaning on her religious beliefs while fiercely holding her own in a world that might rattle any other woman; and she is very relatable as a mother and wife with enough emotional pathos to connect with her as a real person. As a wife and Queen, the interaction and conversations (and arguments) with the King, as well as some of the other moments which stood out for me, (such as her confrontation with Louise of Savoy), truly add depth to Anne.
Right from the start I liked Louis, as Gaston used the simple act of his talking to his dead grandmother’s portrait to bring him to life on the page – a simple technique, but done quite cleverly. As a couple, this is a royal historical romance of the highest caliber, depicting a King and Queen’s love for each other in the midst of all the conflicts surrounding them, and relatable on the common level of aspirations, goals, dreams, and worries. This story is alive in vivid, rich detail which reveals Gaston’s incredible knowledge of French and European history, the nuances of Renaissance life, along with the twists and turns of the Crown, the Pulpit, and the Boudoir in relation to a King and Queen’s life – intimate and public.

“Anne and Louis: Forever Bound (Anne of Brittany Series Book 4) by Rozsa Gaston receives five stars from The Historical Fiction Company and the “Highly Recommended” award
Profile Image for Maya Ch.
182 reviews6 followers
September 26, 2021
I was not aware of Anne of Brittany at all, except that Louis XII married Mary Tudor after the death of his wife and Brittany subjects were not happy about re-marriage.
With the stories of Anne of Brittany from Rosa Gaston the entire Anne’s life show what a fascinating personage she was.
The series are filled with historical detail, which is always appreciated in historical fiction.
Priceless are the inclusion in the text the pictures of artworks and there locations. When Anne has commissioned a tomb for her parents , the story describes appearance details, I immediately started a google search for the images. And apparently all I had to do is just move to the next page with illustrations.
Thanks to the author, Anne of Brittany comes to life strongly and vividly.
I immensely enjoyed this book and entire series of Anne of Brittany.
Profile Image for Jessica Russell.
Author 3 books25 followers
October 2, 2022
This one was good but I liked the other three better. But really, this author is talented and gifted and I hope to read more from her!!
Profile Image for Mary Beth.
650 reviews9 followers
July 29, 2021
Imminently readable

Historical Fiction at its finest. This book covers the last year's of Anne's life. A person who wove practicality with elegance, she was born to rule and rule well she did. Her struggles as a woman and a queen are on full display for all to see. Like the author, l like to think she let her earthly woes go and is now reunited with Louis for eternity.
2 reviews
May 26, 2022
Surprisingly good read on late 15th century France and Brittany

I wasn't sure if I would like this book and didn't know much about this time in history. But I am glad I did continue to read it. Very interesting to see their passion for each other juxtaposed with their love and responsibility for their countries they were in charge of.
43 reviews2 followers
September 22, 2021
Good read

Well done. Author does amazing when switching to a different character, and building characters & their relationships. I didn't put this down much and read it in a few days!
Profile Image for Hildie Johnson.
592 reviews
August 3, 2022
I would like to commend this author because there were pictures by the explanations of people or things, which is SO RARE in an adult historical fiction or non-fiction! What a joy to not only learn about Anne and her life, but to get the history alongside it. I wish more books would made like this!
Profile Image for Jonathan Shuerger.
Author 19 books76 followers
October 26, 2022
Great Story, Wonderfully Written

This love story was a pleasure to read. I’m not a romance guy, but when I read one, I want it to be like this. Two people totally lost in love, continuing even to death. Really well done.
Profile Image for Rowena Winslow.
Author 94 books1 follower
November 19, 2025
A beautifully written and engaging story. I loved following Anne and Louis through the final chapter of their lives together. The historical atmosphere feels vivid and real. A wonderful end to the series.
Profile Image for Dori.
79 reviews5 followers
August 31, 2021
A Amazing Love Story

This book brings you into 16th century France in the first words on the first page.By the end you won't want to leave.
Profile Image for Heather.
1,451 reviews6 followers
November 14, 2021
I want to thank Netgalley and the author for gifting me the ebook. Very informative! If you are a history lover you will enjoy this book!
Profile Image for Rozsa Gaston.
Author 19 books102 followers
Currently Reading
May 4, 2023
𝘼𝙣𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙇𝙤𝙪𝙞𝙨 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝘽𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 wins 𝗙𝗜𝗥𝗦𝗧 𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗖𝗘 in the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮 𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗨𝗖𝗘𝗥 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 for the Chanticleer International Book Awards (CIBA). 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝘂𝗱𝗼𝗿 𝗵𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗳𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 - add to your shelf now and enjoy this tale of the enduring love between Anne of Brittany and Louis XII of France.

https://www.chantireviews.com/2023/05...
Profile Image for Chelsey.
6 reviews29 followers
December 28, 2021
A much anticipated conclusion

This series does an excellent job of weaving history into its story without being dry. The story is romantic and well-written, easily one of my favorite recent historical fiction series. I enjoyed learning about Anne’s life and am looking forward to more works by Rosza Gaston!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews