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The Iron King

Book 1 in the series:The Accursed Kings

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'The Iron King' in the series 'The Accursed Kings' by Maurice Druon is a historical fiction novel set in the 14th century French monarchy. The series delves into the intricate political intrigues and power struggles of the Capetian dynasty, portraying a brutally real and gripping narrative. Maurice Druon's writing style has been commended for its vivid portrayal of the French monarchy during this tumultuous period, drawing readers into a world of cunning characters and medieval politics.

The Accursed Kings series by Maurice Druon is often compared to 'A Song of Ice and Fire' by George R. R. Martin, with many readers noting that Druon's work predates Martin's and served as a significant inspiration for the latter. The series is praised for its historical accuracy and detailed depiction of French dynasties, Italian bankers, and international politics, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that leaves readers captivated until the very end.

Characters:

The characters are grounded in reality, often morally ambiguous, and intricately involved in the complex political landscape of their time.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by its engaging prose, informative footnotes, and multiple character perspectives, providing both entertainment and depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot highlights the turbulent historical context of the 14th-century French monarchy, detailing power struggles and political intrigues leading up to the Hundred Years' War.

Setting:

The setting is rooted in 14th-century France, providing a rich backdrop of the monarchy and societal dynamics leading to significant historical events.

Pacing:

The pacing is typically fast and maintains reader engagement with intriguing plot developments.
Sitting upon a high oaken chair, its back surmounted by the three lions of England, her chin cupped in her hand, her feet resting upon a red cushion, Queen Isabella, wife of Edward II, gazed vaguely, ...

Notes:

The Accursed Kings series by Maurice Druon inspired George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire.
The series covers the turbulent period of French monarchy from the arrest of the Knights Templar to the Hundred Years War.
Maurice Druon's books blend real historical events with dramatized storytelling.
Readers have praised the series for its court politics, intrigue, and complex characters.
The series is set in the 14th century and includes notable figures like King Philip IV and Queen Isabella.
George R.R. Martin even wrote an introduction for the reprints of The Accursed Kings.
The Iron King is the first book in the series, followed by several others that explore the Capetian dynasty.
Druon includes footnotes in his writing that provide additional context on historical events.
Many fans consider The Accursed Kings to be one of the best historical fiction series.
The series is known for its morally ambiguous characters and gripping political machinations.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers may include violence, betrayal, and themes of moral ambiguity, reflecting the harsh realities of the historical period.

From The Publisher:

'This is the original game of thrones' George R.R. Martin

From the publishers that brought you A Game of Thrones comes the series that inspired George R.R. Martin's epic work.

"Accursed! Accursed! You shall be accursed to the thirteenth generation!"

The Iron King - Philip the Fair - is as cold and silent, as handsome and unblinking as a statue. He governs his realm with an iron hand, but he cannot rule his own family: his sons are weak and their wives adulterous; while his red-blooded daughter Isabella is unhappily married to an English king who prefers the company of men.

A web of scandal, murder and intrigue is weaving itself around the Iron King; but his downfall will come from an unexpected quarter. Bent on the persecution of the rich and powerful Knights Templar, Philip sentences Grand Master Jacques Molay to be burned at the stake, thus drawing down upon himself a curse that will destroy his entire dynasty…

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