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Crowns & Kilts #1
You and No Other
Thomas Mardouet, Seigneur de St. Briac, is a man with a perfect life – bold, witty, and splendid to behold, he is the King of France’s trusted knight.
But the day that captivating Aimée de Fleurance appears in the woods to interrupt a hunt, St. Briac’s life is turned on end. When she takes her sister’s place and joins the royal court to avoid an arranged marriage, St. Briac is drawn unwillingly into her impetuous scheme.
To save Aimée from the king’s bed, St. Briac shocks them both by declaring that they are betrothed. After all, marriage is the last thing he wants, especially to this infuriating maiden…
Journey back to the magical world of 16th century France and join Aimée and St. Briac for an adventure filled with enchantment, laughter, and sensuous passion!
But the day that captivating Aimée de Fleurance appears in the woods to interrupt a hunt, St. Briac’s life is turned on end. When she takes her sister’s place and joins the royal court to avoid an arranged marriage, St. Briac is drawn unwillingly into her impetuous scheme.
To save Aimée from the king’s bed, St. Briac shocks them both by declaring that they are betrothed. After all, marriage is the last thing he wants, especially to this infuriating maiden…
Journey back to the magical world of 16th century France and join Aimée and St. Briac for an adventure filled with enchantment, laughter, and sensuous passion!
407 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 1984
1713 people are currently reading
970 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Wright
59 books474 followersCynthia Wright is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, best known for her Rakes & Rebels series, 16 intertwining historical romances starring the irresistible Raveneau & Beauvisage families. Her other acclaimed series are Crowns & Kilts and Rogues Go West. Romantic Times Magazine hails Cynthia's novels as "Romance the way it was meant to be."
Cynthia lives in northern California. She enjoys riding a tandem bike and taking road trips in an airstream trailer with her Colombian-born husband, Alvaro & their corgi, Watson. She is also devoted to her two teenage grandsons who live nearby.
You are invited to visit Cynthia's website (where you can sign up for her newsletter and peruse the Books Page):
http://cynthiawrightauthor.com/
You are invited to join Cynthia's private Facebook reader group here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/98606...
View her "Behind the Books" boards on Pinterest:
http://pinterest.com/cynthiawright77/
RAKES & REBELS: The Raveneau Family series:
1 - SILVER STORM (André & Devon)
2 - HER HUSBAND, THE RAKE: a sequel novella (André & Devon)
3 - SMUGGLER'S MOON (Sebastian & Julia)
4 - THE SECRET OF LOVE (Gabriel & Isabella)
5 - SURRENDER THE STARS (Ryan & Lindsay)
6 - HIS MAKE-BELIEVE BRIDE (Justin & Mouette)
7 - HER IMPOSSIBLE HUSBAND (Justin & Mouette)
8 - HER SECRET ROGUE (Anthony & Frederica)
9 - HIS FIERY ANGEL (Benedict & Camille)
10 - HIS RECKLESS BARGAIN (Nathan & Adrienne)
11 - TEMPEST (Adam & Cathy)
RAKES & REBELS: The Raveneau Family intertwines with RAKES & REBELS: The Beauvisage Family series:
1 - STOLEN BY A PIRATE: a prequel novella to RESCUED BY A ROGUE (Jean-Philippe & Antonia)
2 -RESCUED BY A ROGUE (Alec & Caro)
3 - TOUCH THE SUN (Lion & Meagan)
4 - SPRING FIRES (Nicholai & Lisette)
5 - HER DANGEROUS VISCOUNT (Grey & Natalya)
CROWNS & KILTS: The St. Briac Family
1 - YOU & NO OTHER (Thomas & Aimee)
2 - OF ONE HEART (Andrew & Micheline)
3 - ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR (Christophe & Fiona)
4 - RETURN OF THE LOST BRIDE (Ciaran & Violette)
5 - QUEST OF THE HIGHLANDER (Lennox & Nora)
ROGUES GO WEST
1 - BRIGHTER THAN GOLD (Jack & Katie)
2 - IN A RENEGADE'S EMBRACE (Fox & Maddie)
3 - THE DUKE & THE COWGIRL (Geoff & Shelby)
Read less
Cynthia lives in northern California. She enjoys riding a tandem bike and taking road trips in an airstream trailer with her Colombian-born husband, Alvaro & their corgi, Watson. She is also devoted to her two teenage grandsons who live nearby.
You are invited to visit Cynthia's website (where you can sign up for her newsletter and peruse the Books Page):
http://cynthiawrightauthor.com/
You are invited to join Cynthia's private Facebook reader group here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/98606...
View her "Behind the Books" boards on Pinterest:
http://pinterest.com/cynthiawright77/
RAKES & REBELS: The Raveneau Family series:
1 - SILVER STORM (André & Devon)
2 - HER HUSBAND, THE RAKE: a sequel novella (André & Devon)
3 - SMUGGLER'S MOON (Sebastian & Julia)
4 - THE SECRET OF LOVE (Gabriel & Isabella)
5 - SURRENDER THE STARS (Ryan & Lindsay)
6 - HIS MAKE-BELIEVE BRIDE (Justin & Mouette)
7 - HER IMPOSSIBLE HUSBAND (Justin & Mouette)
8 - HER SECRET ROGUE (Anthony & Frederica)
9 - HIS FIERY ANGEL (Benedict & Camille)
10 - HIS RECKLESS BARGAIN (Nathan & Adrienne)
11 - TEMPEST (Adam & Cathy)
RAKES & REBELS: The Raveneau Family intertwines with RAKES & REBELS: The Beauvisage Family series:
1 - STOLEN BY A PIRATE: a prequel novella to RESCUED BY A ROGUE (Jean-Philippe & Antonia)
2 -RESCUED BY A ROGUE (Alec & Caro)
3 - TOUCH THE SUN (Lion & Meagan)
4 - SPRING FIRES (Nicholai & Lisette)
5 - HER DANGEROUS VISCOUNT (Grey & Natalya)
CROWNS & KILTS: The St. Briac Family
1 - YOU & NO OTHER (Thomas & Aimee)
2 - OF ONE HEART (Andrew & Micheline)
3 - ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR (Christophe & Fiona)
4 - RETURN OF THE LOST BRIDE (Ciaran & Violette)
5 - QUEST OF THE HIGHLANDER (Lennox & Nora)
ROGUES GO WEST
1 - BRIGHTER THAN GOLD (Jack & Katie)
2 - IN A RENEGADE'S EMBRACE (Fox & Maddie)
3 - THE DUKE & THE COWGIRL (Geoff & Shelby)
Read less
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
January 16, 2024
2.75 stars. It wasn't bad. I don't see myself rereading it though.
Setting: France, 1526. (Each chapter begins with a date.) A good amount is spent at the French royal court.
The main characters had to pretend to be in love with each other for a good portion of the book, which I did not expect, but it was the more entertaining portion of the book. There is an OW, but she's friendly to the heroine when they do finally speak to each other. There's angst because the heroine doesn't think the hero will ever love her. It was a sweet moment when he said it first. That was at the 80% mark and I think the book should have ended there. But, no, we had to go on a rescue mission because it's one of the subplots of the book.
I like when the title ends up in the story and that occurred at the end of this book. 🥰
“Never doubt.” He bent his dark, handsome head and kissed the golden band. “You and no other, forever, miette.”
Setting: France, 1526. (Each chapter begins with a date.) A good amount is spent at the French royal court.
The main characters had to pretend to be in love with each other for a good portion of the book, which I did not expect, but it was the more entertaining portion of the book. There is an OW, but she's friendly to the heroine when they do finally speak to each other. There's angst because the heroine doesn't think the hero will ever love her. It was a sweet moment when he said it first. That was at the 80% mark and I think the book should have ended there. But, no, we had to go on a rescue mission because it's one of the subplots of the book.
I like when the title ends up in the story and that occurred at the end of this book. 🥰
“Never doubt.” He bent his dark, handsome head and kissed the golden band. “You and no other, forever, miette.”
September 13, 2020
Sorry, but I hated her. Way too Scarlet O'Hara-type self centeredness and fiddle dee dee BS. Is she simple-minded or a spoiled child? Why did a decent guy like Thomas find her "enchanting?"
François was also a nitwit. The historical bits were interesting but the characters were so ridiculous that the details were kind of pointless.
François was also a nitwit. The historical bits were interesting but the characters were so ridiculous that the details were kind of pointless.
December 13, 2021
A pleasant read
At times it was a little slow but the story about Briac and Aimee was good. Of course as in all of Ms. Wright's books there is a mistress. I really hate that trope. But I don't think he slept with her after he met the heroine and that is different for her writing but I don't really know. I know he didn't sleep with her after he brought Aimee to the court at least. Briac was actually a good man and was friends with the King. While they were at court the King noticed the heroine and was going to seduce her but the hero told him they were engaged so he wouldnt. And the fake engagement became real due to some scheming harpies. There a court intrigue a foot and someone is trying to destroy Briac. An annoying little toad who tried to make trouble. The ex-mistress was also around too. But she actually wanted the hero to be happy so she actually helped force them to marry. There are all so many misunderstandings and arguments and I hated that Briac never told her that he wasn't with the OW. It was weird. But then they marry, fight, mis-communicate some more and then fall in love. It seems like the book is over but bam, there is part four and it's about after they are married and the hero is still trying to help his friend that is in prison for something he didnt do. Her sister shows up to cause trouble, the little toad is back and we end up back at court. It's a good story. Just a little slow at times. And I believe this was safe. But it did seem to go on and on at times.
At times it was a little slow but the story about Briac and Aimee was good. Of course as in all of Ms. Wright's books there is a mistress. I really hate that trope. But I don't think he slept with her after he met the heroine and that is different for her writing but I don't really know. I know he didn't sleep with her after he brought Aimee to the court at least. Briac was actually a good man and was friends with the King. While they were at court the King noticed the heroine and was going to seduce her but the hero told him they were engaged so he wouldnt. And the fake engagement became real due to some scheming harpies. There a court intrigue a foot and someone is trying to destroy Briac. An annoying little toad who tried to make trouble. The ex-mistress was also around too. But she actually wanted the hero to be happy so she actually helped force them to marry. There are all so many misunderstandings and arguments and I hated that Briac never told her that he wasn't with the OW. It was weird. But then they marry, fight, mis-communicate some more and then fall in love. It seems like the book is over but bam, there is part four and it's about after they are married and the hero is still trying to help his friend that is in prison for something he didnt do. Her sister shows up to cause trouble, the little toad is back and we end up back at court. It's a good story. Just a little slow at times. And I believe this was safe. But it did seem to go on and on at times.
June 14, 2020
After making a name for herself with a brilliant series of American Colonial love stories, Seventies romance giant Cynthia Wright turned to Medieval France for inspiration.
With her striking black hair and green eyes, Aimee de Fleurance was a magnet for unsuitable suitors. Yet when she ran away from home disguised as a page boy, she soon met the most irresistable and absolutely unsuitable suitor of all!
Set in France in the 1500's, this book contains all of Cynthia Wright's trademarks. The heroine is girlish, strong willed, innocent and feisty yet deeply passionate and somewhat impulsive. The hero is older, dark, knowing, wise, seemingly cynical but deeply protective once he falls for the perky heroine. The setting is filled with incredible charm, the lush beauty of France and the joys of French food and wine seeming to jump right off the page. Don't miss this delicious love story of Aimee and her gallant lover!
With her striking black hair and green eyes, Aimee de Fleurance was a magnet for unsuitable suitors. Yet when she ran away from home disguised as a page boy, she soon met the most irresistable and absolutely unsuitable suitor of all!
Set in France in the 1500's, this book contains all of Cynthia Wright's trademarks. The heroine is girlish, strong willed, innocent and feisty yet deeply passionate and somewhat impulsive. The hero is older, dark, knowing, wise, seemingly cynical but deeply protective once he falls for the perky heroine. The setting is filled with incredible charm, the lush beauty of France and the joys of French food and wine seeming to jump right off the page. Don't miss this delicious love story of Aimee and her gallant lover!
December 13, 2011
“I first read You And No Other many years ago, when it was released in paperback form. It has always been on my “top five” romance novel list. In recent years, with the explosion of older titles being re-released in e-book form, I’ve had a chance to revisit some of those older titles. Sadly, out of my “top five” list, this book is the only one that kept its spot.
When I sit and wonder why this book was so special, then and now, I know it comes down to the hero. Yes, the French setting in the court of Francois I was really unique and incredibly well researched. Yes, I liked the heroine, Aimee, who was spunky without being annoying. Yes, the plot was very cute and there are some genuinely funny moments when Aimee is desperately trying to avoid the attentions of the king, who thinks she is her sister.
But the real heart of this book is in the hero, Thomas Mardouet, seigneur de St. Briac. In an era when alpha males grunted their way into nearly every romance novel, he was a deliciously refreshing, sexy, witty, intelligent, charming, breath of fresh air. Reading the newly released e-book, I fell in love with him all over again.
I remember loving Surrender The Stars almost as much as I loved this book, so I am going to seek it out and download it for a re-read. Hopefully it will be as fun, entertaining and delicious as this book, which I highly recommend.”
When I sit and wonder why this book was so special, then and now, I know it comes down to the hero. Yes, the French setting in the court of Francois I was really unique and incredibly well researched. Yes, I liked the heroine, Aimee, who was spunky without being annoying. Yes, the plot was very cute and there are some genuinely funny moments when Aimee is desperately trying to avoid the attentions of the king, who thinks she is her sister.
But the real heart of this book is in the hero, Thomas Mardouet, seigneur de St. Briac. In an era when alpha males grunted their way into nearly every romance novel, he was a deliciously refreshing, sexy, witty, intelligent, charming, breath of fresh air. Reading the newly released e-book, I fell in love with him all over again.
I remember loving Surrender The Stars almost as much as I loved this book, so I am going to seek it out and download it for a re-read. Hopefully it will be as fun, entertaining and delicious as this book, which I highly recommend.”
August 9, 2019
I really wanted to like this, but it's more like 2 1/2 stars for me. The blurb sounded good, and there were many (perhaps too many)chunks of lists and details of food and clothing of the times. They were a bit interesting, but didn't move the story along and slowed the pace.
I found Aimee irritating and childish. Aside from her looks, I couldn't understand why St Briac, a fairly decent, heroic man, found her behaviour 'enchanting'. I couldn't empathise with her, or the string of silly, rash decisions she made. At times, she came across as an immature modern-day teenager, and her mood swings and bizarre responses to St Briac's numerous rescues were annoying.
The setting was interesting, with details of the French king's court.
Some events **spoiler** such as the old woman and the pear seemed to be dropped in solely to create another opportunity for St Briac to rescue her again. I skim read sections at times just to finish.
I found Aimee irritating and childish. Aside from her looks, I couldn't understand why St Briac, a fairly decent, heroic man, found her behaviour 'enchanting'. I couldn't empathise with her, or the string of silly, rash decisions she made. At times, she came across as an immature modern-day teenager, and her mood swings and bizarre responses to St Briac's numerous rescues were annoying.
The setting was interesting, with details of the French king's court.
Some events **spoiler** such as the old woman and the pear seemed to be dropped in solely to create another opportunity for St Briac to rescue her again. I skim read sections at times just to finish.
November 14, 2011
This is a fantastic book. I read in 1984 when it came out and I must have read it 10 times since then. I love the banter between Aimee & St. Briac and how she drives him to distraction with her crazy schemes. I like to think of this book as a historical romance with a comedy of errors on the side. St. Briac is one of my favorite romantic heroes. I even copied their wedding bands for my wedding. "Tu et nul autre, pour jamais". I just can't say enough good things about this book! Can't wait to re-read it again next year.
February 3, 2019
I am not sure why I kept reading. It just seemed to go on and on and not go anywhere. The same feeling sorry for themselves because the other one doesn't love me like I love them and then the overdone sex. I was hoping for some historical insight but didn't feel it did well on that front either.
I didn't think the characterization was very good either.
It started getting decent at the 3/4 point.
Overall: Lots of sex,
No desire to read another from this author
I didn't think the characterization was very good either.
It started getting decent at the 3/4 point.
Overall: Lots of sex,
No desire to read another from this author
October 8, 2012
You and No Other is the Crown Jewel in Cynthia Wright’s illustrious writing career. As a Romance Novel it fulfills all the requirements A Hero to die for, a stubborn Heroine. Great secondary characters (If one can call France’s most charismatic King a secondary character), forces willing to keep the couple apart, Court Intrigue, Family Dynamics and oh yeah a glorious setting. Re Reading this book almost 30 years after it was written did not diminish the sheer wonder of the story.
Thomas Mardouet, seigneur de St. Briac has it all. He is gorgeous, well established and a life long friend of the King of France. Secure enough to actually turn down positions at court. He is the hero every girl dreams of and many women secretly yearn for. Charming and charismatic he launches himself into the reader’s heart and never leaves. Thomas was happy with life, his family and friends.. when a chance meeting with a local wood nymph changes everything.
Aimee de Fleurance, oldest daughter to what seems to be a typical family of that era.. needing to broker a marriage for their oldest child that ensures financial security for the family and allows her to live the life she is supposed to live. Aimee, is not willing to settle for life as the wife of a man older than her father and rather decrepit and disgusting as well. Grasping at an opportunity to good to be true she rushes headlong into life at court. Except she is supposed to be her sister, whom the king has designs upon. Not the wood nymph who unknowingly insulted him.
So begins what I love to refer to as a comedy of characters. This book is by no means a comedy or a joke but it is humorous to watch the incredibly respectable Thomas get involved in one scheme of Aimee’s after another. From Aimee’s scheme to escape her family which lands her directly in Thomas’ path to Thomas’ desire to help a friend.. one unique adventure after another. These two are just plain fun!!
One of the reasons why this story spoke to me so strongly was the way they overcame their obstacles. And believe me they were fraught with obstacles, Aimee, escaping her family, hiding from the king.. Thomas, falling for Aimee and not having a clue, in a way, to him at least he was betraying a friend. Villains, politics and more. Each obstacle was overcome with a touch of elegance, a touch of slapstick and all round commitment to the characters. They weren’t put into positions that were false, you could see Aimee pulling one of her schemes and I could almost hear Thomas saying in a mock Cuban accent “Lucy you have some splainin to do”.. It’s not that it was overkill it was just fun. And Thomas, believe me he was just as bad.. his grand plan was the most bizarre and fun and yes erotic of all.
And over all the fun the story told a love story, one of respect and admiration, love and lust.. things we all want in our lives. A generous man who loves us..
There is of course something just so romantic about the setting of this book, from the French Court, which to me just yells romance to a castle in the French Countryside.. The setting was created for love. I can see my family history being replayed in this story.. But then that’s the French in me.. I see possibilities..
The thing is this book almost defines “pure romance”. The characters most definitely drive the story. To me that is what a romance book is about. There can be subplots and secondary characters but the story is told around the hero and the heroine. There are many many books today that are what I call plot driven. In some ways they are similar but there are those who prefer them because they don’t understand the true beauty of a book about people falling in love.. and this book, shares that with us wonderfully.
If you want to read more about Thomas and Aimee you can see them for a little bit in Of One Heart. I am so glad I revisited this charming couple, I find I already miss them. I know it won’t be another 30plus years before I read them again.
Shauni
*grins* I don't usually rate my reviews.. but this book gets 10 swoons (on a scale of 1-5 of course) but seriously, this book is completely swoonworthy, have your swoon pillows ready
*** If you are interested reading about Cynthia's adventures through France as she fell in love with Francois I be sure and check out her website..
http://cynthia-wright.com/
You can also find her on Facebook and twitter..
http://www.facebook.com/cynthiawright...
@Cynthiawright1
Thomas Mardouet, seigneur de St. Briac has it all. He is gorgeous, well established and a life long friend of the King of France. Secure enough to actually turn down positions at court. He is the hero every girl dreams of and many women secretly yearn for. Charming and charismatic he launches himself into the reader’s heart and never leaves. Thomas was happy with life, his family and friends.. when a chance meeting with a local wood nymph changes everything.
Aimee de Fleurance, oldest daughter to what seems to be a typical family of that era.. needing to broker a marriage for their oldest child that ensures financial security for the family and allows her to live the life she is supposed to live. Aimee, is not willing to settle for life as the wife of a man older than her father and rather decrepit and disgusting as well. Grasping at an opportunity to good to be true she rushes headlong into life at court. Except she is supposed to be her sister, whom the king has designs upon. Not the wood nymph who unknowingly insulted him.
So begins what I love to refer to as a comedy of characters. This book is by no means a comedy or a joke but it is humorous to watch the incredibly respectable Thomas get involved in one scheme of Aimee’s after another. From Aimee’s scheme to escape her family which lands her directly in Thomas’ path to Thomas’ desire to help a friend.. one unique adventure after another. These two are just plain fun!!
One of the reasons why this story spoke to me so strongly was the way they overcame their obstacles. And believe me they were fraught with obstacles, Aimee, escaping her family, hiding from the king.. Thomas, falling for Aimee and not having a clue, in a way, to him at least he was betraying a friend. Villains, politics and more. Each obstacle was overcome with a touch of elegance, a touch of slapstick and all round commitment to the characters. They weren’t put into positions that were false, you could see Aimee pulling one of her schemes and I could almost hear Thomas saying in a mock Cuban accent “Lucy you have some splainin to do”.. It’s not that it was overkill it was just fun. And Thomas, believe me he was just as bad.. his grand plan was the most bizarre and fun and yes erotic of all.
And over all the fun the story told a love story, one of respect and admiration, love and lust.. things we all want in our lives. A generous man who loves us..
There is of course something just so romantic about the setting of this book, from the French Court, which to me just yells romance to a castle in the French Countryside.. The setting was created for love. I can see my family history being replayed in this story.. But then that’s the French in me.. I see possibilities..
The thing is this book almost defines “pure romance”. The characters most definitely drive the story. To me that is what a romance book is about. There can be subplots and secondary characters but the story is told around the hero and the heroine. There are many many books today that are what I call plot driven. In some ways they are similar but there are those who prefer them because they don’t understand the true beauty of a book about people falling in love.. and this book, shares that with us wonderfully.
If you want to read more about Thomas and Aimee you can see them for a little bit in Of One Heart. I am so glad I revisited this charming couple, I find I already miss them. I know it won’t be another 30plus years before I read them again.
Shauni
*grins* I don't usually rate my reviews.. but this book gets 10 swoons (on a scale of 1-5 of course) but seriously, this book is completely swoonworthy, have your swoon pillows ready
*** If you are interested reading about Cynthia's adventures through France as she fell in love with Francois I be sure and check out her website..
http://cynthia-wright.com/
You can also find her on Facebook and twitter..
http://www.facebook.com/cynthiawright...
@Cynthiawright1
October 8, 2012
You and No Other is the Crown Jewel in Cynthia Wright’s illustrious writing career. As a Romance Novel it fulfills all the requirements A Hero to die for, a stubborn Heroine. Great secondary characters (If one can call France’s most charismatic King a secondary character), forces willing to keep the couple apart, Court Intrigue, Family Dynamics and oh yeah a glorious setting. Re Reading this book almost 30 years after it was written did not diminish the sheer wonder of the story.
Thomas Mardouet, seigneur de St. Briac has it all. He is gorgeous, well established and a life long friend of the King of France. Secure enough to actually turn down positions at court. He is the hero every girl dreams of and many women secretly yearn for. Charming and charismatic he launches himself into the reader’s heart and never leaves. Thomas was happy with life, his family and friends.. when a chance meeting with a local wood nymph changes everything.
Aimee de Fleurance, oldest daughter to what seems to be a typical family of that era.. needing to broker a marriage for their oldest child that ensures financial security for the family and allows her to live the life she is supposed to live. Aimee, is not willing to settle for life as the wife of a man older than her father and rather decrepit and disgusting as well. Grasping at an opportunity to good to be true she rushes headlong into life at court. Except she is supposed to be her sister, whom the king has designs upon. Not the wood nymph who unknowingly insulted him.
So begins what I love to refer to as a comedy of characters. This book is by no means a comedy or a joke but it is humorous to watch the incredibly respectable Thomas get involved in one scheme of Aimee’s after another. From Aimee’s scheme to escape her family which lands her directly in Thomas’ path to Thomas’ desire to help a friend.. one unique adventure after another. These two are just plain fun!!
One of the reasons why this story spoke to me so strongly was the way they overcame their obstacles. And believe me they were fraught with obstacles, Aimee, escaping her family, hiding from the king.. Thomas, falling for Aimee and not having a clue, in a way, to him at least he was betraying a friend. Villains, politics and more. Each obstacle was overcome with a touch of elegance, a touch of slapstick and all round commitment to the characters. They weren’t put into positions that were false, you could see Aimee pulling one of her schemes and I could almost hear Thomas saying in a mock Cuban accent “Lucy you have some splainin to do”.. It’s not that it was overkill it was just fun. And Thomas, believe me he was just as bad.. his grand plan was the most bizarre and fun and yes erotic of all.
And over all the fun the story told a love story, one of respect and admiration, love and lust.. things we all want in our lives. A generous man who loves us..
There is of course something just so romantic about the setting of this book, from the French Court, which to me just yells romance to a castle in the French Countryside.. The setting was created for love. I can see my family history being replayed in this story.. But then that’s the French in me.. I see possibilities..
The thing is this book almost defines “pure romance”. The characters most definitely drive the story. To me that is what a romance book is about. There can be subplots and secondary characters but the story is told around the hero and the heroine. There are many many books today that are what I call plot driven. In some ways they are similar but there are those who prefer them because they don’t understand the true beauty of a book about people falling in love.. and this book, shares that with us wonderfully.
If you want to read more about Thomas and Aimee you can see them for a little bit in Of One Heart. I am so glad I revisited this charming couple, I find I already miss them. I know it won’t be another 30plus years before I read them again.
Shauni
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Thomas Mardouet, seigneur de St. Briac has it all. He is gorgeous, well established and a life long friend of the King of France. Secure enough to actually turn down positions at court. He is the hero every girl dreams of and many women secretly yearn for. Charming and charismatic he launches himself into the reader’s heart and never leaves. Thomas was happy with life, his family and friends.. when a chance meeting with a local wood nymph changes everything.
Aimee de Fleurance, oldest daughter to what seems to be a typical family of that era.. needing to broker a marriage for their oldest child that ensures financial security for the family and allows her to live the life she is supposed to live. Aimee, is not willing to settle for life as the wife of a man older than her father and rather decrepit and disgusting as well. Grasping at an opportunity to good to be true she rushes headlong into life at court. Except she is supposed to be her sister, whom the king has designs upon. Not the wood nymph who unknowingly insulted him.
So begins what I love to refer to as a comedy of characters. This book is by no means a comedy or a joke but it is humorous to watch the incredibly respectable Thomas get involved in one scheme of Aimee’s after another. From Aimee’s scheme to escape her family which lands her directly in Thomas’ path to Thomas’ desire to help a friend.. one unique adventure after another. These two are just plain fun!!
One of the reasons why this story spoke to me so strongly was the way they overcame their obstacles. And believe me they were fraught with obstacles, Aimee, escaping her family, hiding from the king.. Thomas, falling for Aimee and not having a clue, in a way, to him at least he was betraying a friend. Villains, politics and more. Each obstacle was overcome with a touch of elegance, a touch of slapstick and all round commitment to the characters. They weren’t put into positions that were false, you could see Aimee pulling one of her schemes and I could almost hear Thomas saying in a mock Cuban accent “Lucy you have some splainin to do”.. It’s not that it was overkill it was just fun. And Thomas, believe me he was just as bad.. his grand plan was the most bizarre and fun and yes erotic of all.
And over all the fun the story told a love story, one of respect and admiration, love and lust.. things we all want in our lives. A generous man who loves us..
There is of course something just so romantic about the setting of this book, from the French Court, which to me just yells romance to a castle in the French Countryside.. The setting was created for love. I can see my family history being replayed in this story.. But then that’s the French in me.. I see possibilities..
The thing is this book almost defines “pure romance”. The characters most definitely drive the story. To me that is what a romance book is about. There can be subplots and secondary characters but the story is told around the hero and the heroine. There are many many books today that are what I call plot driven. In some ways they are similar but there are those who prefer them because they don’t understand the true beauty of a book about people falling in love.. and this book, shares that with us wonderfully.
If you want to read more about Thomas and Aimee you can see them for a little bit in Of One Heart. I am so glad I revisited this charming couple, I find I already miss them. I know it won’t be another 30plus years before I read them again.
Shauni
For more reviews by Shauni check out Tea and Book and
Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
April 10, 2017
The joy of an audio book is that if you are lucky, not only do you get to listen to a fabulous book, but it is also narrated by a talented person. Cynthia Wright has written an amazing story. Aimee de Fleurence is being forced into a marriage to a horrid man, and she will do anything to escape that fate. That escape comes in the form of joining the King's court using her sister's invitation, and keeping herself well hidden to evade discovery. Her sister was to become one of the King's 'women' and although Aimee admired her King, she hoped he wouldn't discover that she had taken her sister's place. He would either be furious at the deception and force her to return home, or he would expect her to take her sister's place in his bed. Neither option was acceptable to her. She just hoped she could get far enough away from home to be able to slip away from the travellers before that happened.
Unfortunately for her she is discovered before that, not by the king, but by his good friend Thomas St. Briac. He is infuriated with her for putting herself at risk, and despite her being a thorn in his side, he does his best to keep her hidden from the King. His plans go awry though, and in order to keep her from the King's bed St.Briac tells him of Aimee's plight and then does the unthinkable, tells the King he wants to marry her. That keeps the King happy, but he is shocked to discover that Aimee is less than pleased. Even though she won't go through with a wedding, she knows that now she must find a way to break off the engagement without damage to either of their reputations.
She wouldn't be adverse to marrying him, IF he loved her. But knowing he barely tolerated her made her determined to get away from him as soon as possible. Circumstances occur that turns the situation around, and St.Briac is the one needing her help by remaining betrothed to her.
Their relationship is a fabulous one to discover, either they absolutely despise each other, or they are in the throws of passion with each other instead. St.Briac is a fabulous character whose wit and cheekiness had me smiling many times throughout the book, especially when he was teasing Aimee.
Not only was their the romance aspect of the story to keep me intrigued but also there was some skullduggery, possible treason, and deception afoot that could lead to an innocent man being hanged. There was never a dull moment in this story and the only thing that could make it better, and indeed did, was the superb narration by Tim Campbell. He portrayed each character fabulously, from the deep, sexy, sometimes cheeky and playful timbre of St.Briac's voice, to the gentle sweet voice of Aimee. The voices of the King, children, the villains, and even an old crone were superbly done as well.
As I said at the start of my review, the joy of an audio book comes from an equally good story and it's narration and I am happy to say that this book definitely had both. I can't recommend it enough. There are only a handful of narrators that I feel are worthy of a 5 star rating, and Tim Campbell is definitely one of them. A 5 star novel with a 5 star narration.
Unfortunately for her she is discovered before that, not by the king, but by his good friend Thomas St. Briac. He is infuriated with her for putting herself at risk, and despite her being a thorn in his side, he does his best to keep her hidden from the King. His plans go awry though, and in order to keep her from the King's bed St.Briac tells him of Aimee's plight and then does the unthinkable, tells the King he wants to marry her. That keeps the King happy, but he is shocked to discover that Aimee is less than pleased. Even though she won't go through with a wedding, she knows that now she must find a way to break off the engagement without damage to either of their reputations.
She wouldn't be adverse to marrying him, IF he loved her. But knowing he barely tolerated her made her determined to get away from him as soon as possible. Circumstances occur that turns the situation around, and St.Briac is the one needing her help by remaining betrothed to her.
Their relationship is a fabulous one to discover, either they absolutely despise each other, or they are in the throws of passion with each other instead. St.Briac is a fabulous character whose wit and cheekiness had me smiling many times throughout the book, especially when he was teasing Aimee.
Not only was their the romance aspect of the story to keep me intrigued but also there was some skullduggery, possible treason, and deception afoot that could lead to an innocent man being hanged. There was never a dull moment in this story and the only thing that could make it better, and indeed did, was the superb narration by Tim Campbell. He portrayed each character fabulously, from the deep, sexy, sometimes cheeky and playful timbre of St.Briac's voice, to the gentle sweet voice of Aimee. The voices of the King, children, the villains, and even an old crone were superbly done as well.
As I said at the start of my review, the joy of an audio book comes from an equally good story and it's narration and I am happy to say that this book definitely had both. I can't recommend it enough. There are only a handful of narrators that I feel are worthy of a 5 star rating, and Tim Campbell is definitely one of them. A 5 star novel with a 5 star narration.
July 9, 2020
Pretty good
April 6, 2012
3.5 stars
A bit syrupy sweet for my taste, but overall, a fun romp of a historical romance. This tale is set in 1526, when Francois I (King of France) has just been returned from being held by Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor and ruler of Spain. Charles and Francois don't see eye-to-eye on the Bourbon district, taken back by France in a recent war. But Charles isn't just letting Francois go; it's an exchange - Francois' 2 eldest sons (8 and 6 respectively) are to go to Spain under guard in Francois' place. Before agreeing to this, Francois had to sign an agreement to give Bourbon back, along with some trivial other conditions. Francois knows he can't just turn Bourbon over to Charles V, and so through-out the book, he's mourning the loss of his sons and relishing his freedom. It's a fine balance, and one that's not resolved at the end of this book.
This book is really about Thomas St. Briac, a boyhood friend of Francois, and a man of property and nobility. Thomas doesn't try for favors from the king, and he's not all that comfortable at Court for too long; he's not into the politics and jockeying for position and favors.
Francois and Thomas meet Aimee, our Heroine, near one of the king's hunting lodges in Nieull. Aimee's family lives nearby, and she loves to be outside and roam Nature. Her younger, blonde sister Honorine came to fetch her at their mother's request. But as usual, Aimee lingered... long enough to prevent the king and Thomas from getting a large stag they were hunting. Aimee is all opinions and stubborness, even though she's a delightful innocent. When the king and Thomas come upon her, they think she's a saucy wench out to seduce them, so they stop and chat. Except that during the chat, Aimee (who obviously doesn't recognize the king) makes many disparaging remarks about Francois, which causes Thomas to chuckle and Francois to become furious. In a huff, Francois rides off, leaving Thomas to deal with her. There's the instant-spark thing happening between Thomas and Aimee, and he quickly discovers that she's an innocent and had no true intentions for stopping them, other than saving the stag. Before he leaves, though, Thomas can't help giving Aimee a good and proper kissing, which leaves them both a bit breathless - Aimee because she's not been kissed like that before, and Thomas because he realizes his attraction to her is more than simple lust.
That night, Aimee and her family travel into Nieull to meet the king. Luckily, the encounter Thomas first, who laughingly tells her family Aimee's encounter with the king earlier and suggests that she remain with him while the rest of her family is presented to the king. No need to cause a scene, after all. Aimee takes offense (she can be prickly), but Thomas soon has her laughing... so much so, that Aimee's "intended", a man older than her father, takes offense and make himself known to Thomas as Aimee's finance. Aimee has already gotten out of marrying the man once, but her mother is determined that her 18-year old daughter be settled. Meanwhile, the king takes a liking to Honorine, a lovely blonde - just his type. Before departing, Thomas tells Aimee that she should take Fate into her own hands and fight for what she wants.
So when a note from the king for a Mademoiselle de Fleurance arrives later that evening asking the lovely Mademoiselle to join his royal court and entourage to Chambord, Aimee seizes it as her opportunity for escape. She knows it's intended for Honorine, but she decides it's a sign from God - a way to get out of the house (as her mother wanted for her) and way to escape marriage. So Aimee packs her bags secretly and sneaks away. She's not sure how to keep up the farce, because she knows she has to stay away from the king as long as possible; but she's determined.
Except, of course, Thomas discovers her. He's furious, but amused; he agrees to help her, but not to lie to the king for her. What ensues is a midnight tryst in a garden, where both Thomas and Aimee are attempting to hide their identities from the king, but end up in full-blown passion. But it doesn't take long for the king to discover her; rather than being angry, as she feared, the king is actually enchanted, thinking that Aimee wanted badly to join his court. When the king attempts to bed her, Thomas bursts into the room and announces that he wants to marry Aimee - with the king's permission, of course. Which is finally granted, saving Aimee from the king.
And this is where it gets a bit dicey... Both Thomas and Aimee feel something more for one another, but neither is willing to admit it to themselves much less to one another. So we enter a long stretch of watching them fight and fuss and steam and stew, because Aimee thinks Thomas is only being noble and protecting her, while he continues to pursue his affair with a married woman at court. Thomas thinks that Aimee has no feelings at all for him, which frustrates him to no end, because he's too noble to force her, and yet he's drawn to her and her endless schemes. When a mother-daughter pair shows up, claiming that Thomas is already affianced, based on an agreement between parents from long ago, Thomas begs Aimee to keep up the "farce" to scare them away. (Even the king is amused, but he tells Thomas he must handle it himself.)
So, of course, Thomas and Aimee end up married. And really, that's only 1/3 of the book! There are numerous scenes where Thomas has to rescue Aimee from something or someone, always showing up just in the nick-of-time. And lots of Aimee's wild schemes.
The HEA is fun and full of adventure, but as I said, it's a bit syrupy sweet and pushes the bounds of what the king would probably do if Thomas went against his orders in the way that he does. But hey, it's a romance, right?
A bit syrupy sweet for my taste, but overall, a fun romp of a historical romance. This tale is set in 1526, when Francois I (King of France) has just been returned from being held by Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor and ruler of Spain. Charles and Francois don't see eye-to-eye on the Bourbon district, taken back by France in a recent war. But Charles isn't just letting Francois go; it's an exchange - Francois' 2 eldest sons (8 and 6 respectively) are to go to Spain under guard in Francois' place. Before agreeing to this, Francois had to sign an agreement to give Bourbon back, along with some trivial other conditions. Francois knows he can't just turn Bourbon over to Charles V, and so through-out the book, he's mourning the loss of his sons and relishing his freedom. It's a fine balance, and one that's not resolved at the end of this book.
This book is really about Thomas St. Briac, a boyhood friend of Francois, and a man of property and nobility. Thomas doesn't try for favors from the king, and he's not all that comfortable at Court for too long; he's not into the politics and jockeying for position and favors.
Francois and Thomas meet Aimee, our Heroine, near one of the king's hunting lodges in Nieull. Aimee's family lives nearby, and she loves to be outside and roam Nature. Her younger, blonde sister Honorine came to fetch her at their mother's request. But as usual, Aimee lingered... long enough to prevent the king and Thomas from getting a large stag they were hunting. Aimee is all opinions and stubborness, even though she's a delightful innocent. When the king and Thomas come upon her, they think she's a saucy wench out to seduce them, so they stop and chat. Except that during the chat, Aimee (who obviously doesn't recognize the king) makes many disparaging remarks about Francois, which causes Thomas to chuckle and Francois to become furious. In a huff, Francois rides off, leaving Thomas to deal with her. There's the instant-spark thing happening between Thomas and Aimee, and he quickly discovers that she's an innocent and had no true intentions for stopping them, other than saving the stag. Before he leaves, though, Thomas can't help giving Aimee a good and proper kissing, which leaves them both a bit breathless - Aimee because she's not been kissed like that before, and Thomas because he realizes his attraction to her is more than simple lust.
That night, Aimee and her family travel into Nieull to meet the king. Luckily, the encounter Thomas first, who laughingly tells her family Aimee's encounter with the king earlier and suggests that she remain with him while the rest of her family is presented to the king. No need to cause a scene, after all. Aimee takes offense (she can be prickly), but Thomas soon has her laughing... so much so, that Aimee's "intended", a man older than her father, takes offense and make himself known to Thomas as Aimee's finance. Aimee has already gotten out of marrying the man once, but her mother is determined that her 18-year old daughter be settled. Meanwhile, the king takes a liking to Honorine, a lovely blonde - just his type. Before departing, Thomas tells Aimee that she should take Fate into her own hands and fight for what she wants.
So when a note from the king for a Mademoiselle de Fleurance arrives later that evening asking the lovely Mademoiselle to join his royal court and entourage to Chambord, Aimee seizes it as her opportunity for escape. She knows it's intended for Honorine, but she decides it's a sign from God - a way to get out of the house (as her mother wanted for her) and way to escape marriage. So Aimee packs her bags secretly and sneaks away. She's not sure how to keep up the farce, because she knows she has to stay away from the king as long as possible; but she's determined.
Except, of course, Thomas discovers her. He's furious, but amused; he agrees to help her, but not to lie to the king for her. What ensues is a midnight tryst in a garden, where both Thomas and Aimee are attempting to hide their identities from the king, but end up in full-blown passion. But it doesn't take long for the king to discover her; rather than being angry, as she feared, the king is actually enchanted, thinking that Aimee wanted badly to join his court. When the king attempts to bed her, Thomas bursts into the room and announces that he wants to marry Aimee - with the king's permission, of course. Which is finally granted, saving Aimee from the king.
And this is where it gets a bit dicey... Both Thomas and Aimee feel something more for one another, but neither is willing to admit it to themselves much less to one another. So we enter a long stretch of watching them fight and fuss and steam and stew, because Aimee thinks Thomas is only being noble and protecting her, while he continues to pursue his affair with a married woman at court. Thomas thinks that Aimee has no feelings at all for him, which frustrates him to no end, because he's too noble to force her, and yet he's drawn to her and her endless schemes. When a mother-daughter pair shows up, claiming that Thomas is already affianced, based on an agreement between parents from long ago, Thomas begs Aimee to keep up the "farce" to scare them away. (Even the king is amused, but he tells Thomas he must handle it himself.)
So, of course, Thomas and Aimee end up married. And really, that's only 1/3 of the book! There are numerous scenes where Thomas has to rescue Aimee from something or someone, always showing up just in the nick-of-time. And lots of Aimee's wild schemes.
The HEA is fun and full of adventure, but as I said, it's a bit syrupy sweet and pushes the bounds of what the king would probably do if Thomas went against his orders in the way that he does. But hey, it's a romance, right?
Read
August 16, 2023DNF 15%
The premise sounded good. The leading lady is a total nincompoop and her behavior is complete opposite of how noble people of the time behaved. I understand creativity but some things are hard to suspend disbelief for. Plus the author's writing style is not my favorite. Sudden POV switches jarred me out of the story. I like when authors dedicate one chapter to one character's POV, so there is no confusion. Here it felt like the author was in a hurry to cram as much as possible internal dialogue from different characters into one chapter and that made the story read choppy and rough. I could get past the silly lady but not the writing style. "sigh" And she has so many books in the series but I just can't. Nope pile it is.
The premise sounded good. The leading lady is a total nincompoop and her behavior is complete opposite of how noble people of the time behaved. I understand creativity but some things are hard to suspend disbelief for. Plus the author's writing style is not my favorite. Sudden POV switches jarred me out of the story. I like when authors dedicate one chapter to one character's POV, so there is no confusion. Here it felt like the author was in a hurry to cram as much as possible internal dialogue from different characters into one chapter and that made the story read choppy and rough. I could get past the silly lady but not the writing style. "sigh" And she has so many books in the series but I just can't. Nope pile it is.
May 15, 2020
I just was Meh on this book. I started with the audio version and switched to the kindle version half way through. I just could never get into the story. The heroine was not the type that I enjoy reading about.
June 25, 2011
A delightful love story set in Renaissance France during the reign of King Francois 1. I enjoyed the laughter that the two main characters often shared. Thomas is now one of my favorite heros.
May 13, 2021
DNF. This got a bunch of 5-star reviews so maybe it gets better, but I really can't make myself read any further. It's just so dumb.
June 29, 2021
After becoming betrothed to an odious man, Aimée's only chance at freedom is to masquerade as her sister and escape to the French royal court, assisted only by her maid and the handsome St. Briac.
I waffled on the rating of this book, because though I enjoyed it while I was reading, I didn't feel very compelled to pick it up when I stopped. Aimée is tolerable, but St. Briac is really a breath of fresh air amid the so-called alpha male heroes typical of 80s romance. However, the romance felt a touched rushed toward the end of its resolution, and the B plot of court intrigue took too long to wrap. Still, all in all a solid romance with a vivid setting.
I waffled on the rating of this book, because though I enjoyed it while I was reading, I didn't feel very compelled to pick it up when I stopped. Aimée is tolerable, but St. Briac is really a breath of fresh air amid the so-called alpha male heroes typical of 80s romance. However, the romance felt a touched rushed toward the end of its resolution, and the B plot of court intrigue took too long to wrap. Still, all in all a solid romance with a vivid setting.
Want to read
December 29, 2021Note to self: I own the 1984 edition.
This is also free on Kindle. When I read this I want to compare to the Kindle version to find out if this was neutered by the author.
Also Cynthia Wright is still alive and even has a fb reader group. It may be worth it to email her to ask if she edited/censored her books currently on Amazon.
I also want to check Surrender the Stars
This is also free on Kindle. When I read this I want to compare to the Kindle version to find out if this was neutered by the author.
Also Cynthia Wright is still alive and even has a fb reader group. It may be worth it to email her to ask if she edited/censored her books currently on Amazon.
I also want to check Surrender the Stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2019
A good surprise is always appreciated, and this book was such a surprise.
Want to read
June 12, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/12/2022)! 🎁
September 15, 2019
After a lot of heavy reading, I wanted something fun and easy, and cheep. When I downloaded this for my kindle it was free, so that definitely influenced my decision to read it. Despite my excitement, this book was not for me which is why it took me so long to finish this romance. I was sold on enemies to lovers romance and while this element was definitely there it was really weak. Overall I would not class the story as an element to lovers romance. You can see that the author is trying to frame the two of them within this relationship, but, while they do show a bit of annoyance with one another, they don't really have any reason to be enemies. There was also a secondary political plotline running alongside the romance. I have nothing against political plotlines, but when I pick up a romance I am not in the headspace for anything other than a romance. I'm a simple girl, just give me the romance, I don't need another plot. You and No Other is perfectly okay, but I was relieved to have finished it. For me, I really need a lot more angst in my romance.
August 21, 2019
Soap Opera In A 📦box
Five Stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for the Audible narrator. Without his sexy, humorous, and sly narration, I never would have finished this endless and extremely overlong historical romance💕.
The book is a detailed and seemingly endless round after round of the woman character getting into trouble, then getting saved by her sexy insatiable knight🐺🍆⛲🔪.
The book is filled with massive quantities of inane and superfluous dialogue.😴
It would have been better if it was half as long. If not for the narrator, I would have thrown this book in the electronic trash heap about half way through. Two stars🌟🌟for the actual story, which was repetitive and boring. 😴
The best thing about this book, is that along with the Audible, it is currently free!
Five Stars🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 for the Audible narrator. Without his sexy, humorous, and sly narration, I never would have finished this endless and extremely overlong historical romance💕.
The book is a detailed and seemingly endless round after round of the woman character getting into trouble, then getting saved by her sexy insatiable knight🐺🍆⛲🔪.
The book is filled with massive quantities of inane and superfluous dialogue.😴
It would have been better if it was half as long. If not for the narrator, I would have thrown this book in the electronic trash heap about half way through. Two stars🌟🌟for the actual story, which was repetitive and boring. 😴
The best thing about this book, is that along with the Audible, it is currently free!
September 25, 2012
After reading a positive review of You, and No Other I decided to pick this one up from the Kindle Store. This title has just been re-vamped as an ebook I believe and at only $0.99 is well worth the read.
An era that I love to read about (the year is 1532), I enjoyed reading a little more about the French Court of this era.
At times I felt quite concerned that this couple were going to get their HEA and felt at times I could easily bump their heads together.
A lovely read though and I'm looking forward to picking up the next in this series.
An era that I love to read about (the year is 1532), I enjoyed reading a little more about the French Court of this era.
At times I felt quite concerned that this couple were going to get their HEA and felt at times I could easily bump their heads together.
A lovely read though and I'm looking forward to picking up the next in this series.
February 25, 2012
Fabulous, fabulous book! Loved the banter between Thomas and Aimee. Loved the story. Can't say enough about it. Historical fiction books are one of my favorite genres (spellig) of books. Especially when there is a budding romance involved.
May 22, 2013
Loved Thomas and Aimee! This is an oldie, but it hasn't lost its charm. It was different for me since the story takes place in France instead of England. Loved the descriptions and the romance. The new cover is also very nice:)
July 20, 2014
This was a fantastic read!!
February 17, 2012
Really enjoyed this lush, descriptive romance, set in the reign of Francois I of France. Well researched and fun to read. Very appealing hero. Glad Cynthia has reissued this book digitally.
Want to read
August 19, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/13/2020)! 🎁
February 1, 2012
Loved it!
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