Once in awhile, you just have to toss the guidebook and force yourself to trust your gut.  That is what I did with the Royal Chateau d’Amboise (Am ‘bwahzz).  Not that seeing this was a real gamble; I believe this majestic former fortress-turned-castle is underrated, yet still survives in the shadow of its chateau-sisters.  Other than a great view, I wasn’t sure what I would experience up on the ramparts, but I can say that everywhere you turn, a surprise seems to be waiting around the corner.