The Search for the Man in the Iron Mask by Paul Sonnino

Review:

The Search for the Man in the Iron Mask triumphantly solves an enduring puzzle that has stumped historians for centuries and seduced novelists and filmmakers to this day. Who was the man who was rumored to have been kept in prison and treated royally during much of the reign of Louis XIV while being forced to wear an iron mask? Could he possibly have been the twin brother of the Sun King? Like every other serious scholar, intrepid historian Paul Sonnino discounts this theory, instead taking the reader along on his adventures to uncover the truth behind this ancient enigma. Exploring the hidden, squalid side of the lavish court of France, the author uncovers the full spectrum of French society, from humble servants to wealthy merchants to kings and queens. All had self-interested reasons to hold their secrets close until one humble valet named Eustache Dauger was arrested and jailed for decades, simply because he knew too much and opened his mouth at the wrong time. Presenting his dramatic solution to the mystery, Sonnino convincingly shows that no one will be able to tell the story of the man in the iron mask without taking into account the staggering array of evidence he has uncovered over the course of decades.

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Review:

I've always been a fan of the Man in the Iron Mask history and mythology. Sonnino's take is an interesting angle to take into account. One thing is for sure is that he's done some serious homework. I really wish the author had created a glossary or some kind of index to track all the wealth of information that he brings to the table because its literally so dense you need to take notes.

I really enjoyed the devious history that surrounded the wealth and royalty of the time that Sonnio did well to detail and include in his story.

Sonnio weaves a creative story from beginning to end with a Tudors kind of reality drama.  I requested the book expecting a sort of story tale but got a history lesson instead however it didn't prevent me from enjoying it.

 

 

My Rating:
4 Stars
 
 
Reviewed By:
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviewshttp://kkmalott.booklikes.com/

 

 

 

Note: I received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review

 

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