"A fine book...so obviously the fruit of devoted labour...there is everything to enjoy in it."--The New York Times. A sympathetic biography of the man who was right at the heart of all the struggles in the 17th century--and a thoroughly researched history that reads like the thriller it is. Written in a bold and evocative style, this engrossing volume weaves an extraordinary story of a sickly child who became a king, and lived surrounded by rumor and intrigue and notorious friendships. The infamous tragedy unfolds with such sparkling insights and poignancy you'll feel as if you were right there when the axe fell upon this unfortunate king.