The Iron King

by Maurice Druon Book 1 in the The Accursed Kings series.

First published 1955

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In 1314 Philip IV rules France through an increasingly centralised monarchy burdened by war and debt. His destruction of the Knights Templar reaches its final stage with the execution of Jacques de Molay, whose legendary curse becomes the symbolic beginning of the dynasty's collapse.

At court, Isabella of France exposes the adultery of her sisters-in-law, producing the Tour de Nesle scandal and placing the legitimacy of future heirs in doubt. Alongside the royal crisis, Robert of Artois renews his struggle against his aunt Mahaut for possession of the county, creating a conflict that will outlast Philip's reign.

Historical Periods

Late Medievalc. 1300–1500 CE Artois Succession Dispute1302–1332 CE Suppression of the Knights Templar in France1307–1314 CE Tour de Nesle Affair1314 CE

Genres

Court & Political Fiction Historical Sagas Historical Thriller

Historical people

Philip IV of France1268–1314 Jacques de Molaydied 1314 Louis X of France1289–1316 Margaret of Burgundy1290–1315 Mahaut, Countess of Artois1269–1329 Robert III of Artois1287–1342 Robert I, Count of Artois1216–1250