A Traitorous Heart

In this historical thriller, ambitious young noblewoman Jacqueline is caught between her desire to be a supernatural spy for the mysterious Societas Solis and her friendship with the French princess, Marguerite de Valois. In a time when religious wars ravage Europe and assassins stalk the royal family, the Societas Solis wants Catholic Marguerite to marry the Huguenot (Protestant) King of Navarre, Henry de Bourbon, in order to avoid religious violence. Marguerite, an enthusiastic skirt-chaser, has no interest in men, or marriage. What should Jacqueline and Marguerite prioritize: peace and safety for religious minorities, or their own personal freedom from the patriarchal oppression of marriage? This dilemma is complicated by Jacqueline’s attraction to both Marguerite and Henry and by the machinations of Marguerite’s mother, Catherine de’ Medici, who is an evil witch. Ultimately, the novel substitutes made-up problems for the extremely high stakes of history as Jacqueline, Marguerite, and Henry race to stop Queen Catherine from pulling a Frankenstein and reviving her dead husband. As a result, the notorious St. Bartholomew Day’s massacre—in which thousands of innocents were murdered—has about as much emotional impact as the blasé carnage of a superhero film. Cotter demonstrates good overall knowledge of the cultural and historical context, yet she underplays the nexus of religious and political issues in favor of swoony scenes. The prose is flavorful, occasionally dipping into purple prose for the romance. VERDICT A pathway into a complicated, fascinating moment in history through a queer feminist perspective. – School Library Journal * 3/14/25 *
”[H]eaps of magic, witchcraft, swordplay, and intrigue keep the fantastical mystery and tension high…Cotter charms with the adventures of bold Jac, self-indulgent Margot, and courageous Henry as they search for a way to both save their country and forge their own paths.” – Publishers Weekly * 12/2/2024 *
It is 1572, and 17-year-old Jacqueline, or Jac, desires to be a member of the Societas Solis order rather than be a lady-in-waiting attending royal balls. Her Oncle, a member, refuses Jac’s pleas and would rather Jac forgo a life of espionage. When her best friend and love interest Princess Marguerite de Valois (Margot) is forced to marry King Henry of Navarre, Jac’s Oncle gives her the mission of assuring Margot, who prefers women, goes through with the marriage. That task proves more difficult when Jac and Henry develop feelings for each other. Along with the murdering of young men on the streets of Paris and sorcery, Jac rushes to solve the developing mysteries, while coming to terms with her romantic attractions. Cotter’s sophomore work is a thoughtful period piece exploring the difficulties of young adults freely expressing their polyamorous sexuality. Other important topics that arise in the story are social inequality and lack of freedom for women. An enjoyable read that dips into the history of the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre. – Booklist * 01/01/2025 *

Erin Cotter writes young adult fiction. Originally from Buffalo, New York, she currently calls Austin home. When not writing, she spends time with her partner and pets, eating tacos, and searching for Golden-cheeked Warblers in the Texas Hill Country.

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