Romances of Arquitaine
2 primary works
Book 1
Vianne di Rocancheil is content to play the gawky provincial. As lady in waiting - and more importantly, friend - to the Princesse of Arquitaine, she is free to do largely as she pleases. Court is a dangerous place for the unwary, but Vianne treads its measured steps well. Unfortunately, the dance has changed. Treachery is afoot in the Court's gilded and velvet halls. A conspiracy is unleashed, with blood, death, and warfare close behind. The fate of Arquitaine now rests on the wits of a lady in waiting, and she must flee. If she reaches the mountains, she may be safe - and her beloved land with her.
A life of dances, intrigues, and fashion has not prepared her for this. Nor has it prepared her for Tristan d'Arcenne, Captain of the King's Guard and player in the most dangerous games conspiracy can devise. But to save her land and avenge her Princesse, Vianne will become what she must, say what she should, and do whatever is required. A Queen can do no less.
Book 2
Thief, liar, assassin, whore. Tale-bearer, spy, extortionist, confidante, scandal-smoother. A knife in the dark, poison in a cup, a shield and a defense on the battlefield as well as in the glittering whirl of Court...This, then, is the Left Hand.
The Left Hand does what must be done to cement the hold of the monarch on the realm, to protect the sovereign we swear fealty to - even at the cost of our own lives. Even at the cost of our honour.
There is only one word never applied to the Left Hand, only one thing a Left Hand has never been...Traitor.
Tristan d'Arcenne killed his King. Now he is faced with murder, betrayal, war, and the mistrust of his Queen. She should mistrust him, for there is nothing d'Arcenne will not do.
The Bandit King approaches . . .