No one has ever escaped the Tower of London, no one that is until Roger
Mortimer manages to in 1323. Having made his way to France, Mortimer is
offered the opportunity to participate in a crusade being organised by
the Count of Valois. However, Mortimer had to play the waiting game.
The crusade was put on the back burner when a scheme to engage the
English in a war was proposed. Mortimer finds himself in a war against
his own country. A successful siege by the French results in the Duke
of Kent, brother to King Edward, becoming a French hostage.
Pope John XXII is prepared to lay down rules of a truce between France
and England. He feels that Queen Isabella should come from England to
broker the deal. He is also no longer in favour of a crusade. Upon
arrival in Paris, Isabella asks for King Charles' protection. She has
no plans to return to England until the Dispensers are removed from
power. She begins a liaison with Mortimer.
Edward becomes angry when his wife and son refuse to return to England.
Soon King Charles decides to send her home, however Robert of Artois
warns her and Mortimer. A short time later, Isabella, her son Edward
and Mortimer invade England with a small force. Will they be able to
overthrow the king and the Dispensers?
Author Maurice Druon continues well researched his historic novels with
this one. It is a very good read, especially for fans of historical
fiction.
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