The Cardinal’s Heir by Jaki Demarest
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Guerite, as she’s fondly called, is a base born woman living during the time of Cardinal Richelieu and the musketeers. Only two of the famous quartet appear, but this is not a continuation of their story. Guerite is Richelieu’s niece and the leader of his spy network. She’s been tasked with uncovering the perpetrators of his murder, and thus, many hijinks ensue.
This was a fun read. Guerite is a spunky protagonist who embraces her sex and finds love in the process. Being a fan of alternative history, I realize that many of the plot points found in the book would never happen, but that’s the point. Guerite is believable as a woman of strength and resolve. Though she’s bound by the limits of her society, the fact that she’s respected and placed in a position of power is refreshing.
The secondary characters could have used a bit more development. And I think I missed a bit having not read The Three Musketeers.