I played on VH/VH with France as well and honestly i think it is easy[at least not difficult], especially you could hardly lost a battle with the current battling AI.

Plus, i apply these iron men rules on my game:

1. You can only recruit troops or build if you have a general in province.
2. You can NEVER adopt any generals, all of them must be royal blood.
3. Only General can leading an army to attack other city/army.
4. You can NEVER attack another Catholic faction unless they attack you first.
5. NEVER get your kingdom excommunicated.
6. NEVER reload the game for your favor.