If I Were King By: Justin McCarthy (1830-1912)
If I Were King by Justin McCarthy is a fascinating historical novel that transports the reader back to 15th-century France. The story revolves around the character of François Villon, a charismatic and cunning poet who finds himself unexpectedly crowned as the King of France. McCarthy skillfully crafts a narrative that showcases the complexities of power and the inner workings of a medieval court. Through his vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations, he brings the streets of Paris and the halls of the palace to life. The book delves into the political and social dynamics of the time, exploring the struggle between the rulers and the ruled, the nobility and the commoners. One of the strongest aspects of the novel is the depth and development of the protagonist, François Villon. McCarthy presents him as a deeply flawed and complex character, torn between his desires for power, love, and personal freedom. The inner conflicts he faces make his journey all the more engaging and relatable. The author's prose is rich and vivid, evoking the sights, sounds, and even smells of medieval France. McCarthy's descriptions of the architecture, fashion, and culture of the time period help paint a vivid picture of the setting. Moreover, his dialogue is lively and authentic, providing further depth to the characters and their interactions. While the pacing of the narrative may be slower at times, it allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world of the story. McCarthy's attention to detail is evident throughout, and his research into historical events and figures is commendable. If I Were King is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of power, identity, and the human condition. Through its compelling storytelling and well-crafted characters, it leaves the reader contemplating the consequences of one's choices and the true nature of leadership. Overall, Justin McCarthy's If I Were King is a captivating historical novel that offers a unique and immersive exploration of medieval France. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and descriptive prose, it is a book that will leave a lasting impression on readers who enjoy historical fiction. First Page: This eBook was created by Charles Aldarondo (pg@aldarondo.net). IF I WERE KING BY JUSTIN HUNTLY McCARTHY DEDICATION To Her Through Whom and For Whom This Book was Written "The Loveliest Lady this side of Heaven." XXI. XII. MCMI. If I were king ah love, if I were king! What tributary nations would I bring To stoop before your sceptre and to swear Allegiance to your lips and eyes and hair. Beneath your feet what treasures I would fling: The stars should be your pearls upon a string, The world a ruby for your finger ring, And you should have the sun and moon to wear If I were king. Let these wild dreams and wilder words take wing, Deep in the woods I hear a shepherd sing A simple ballad to a sylvan air, Of love that ever finds your face more fair. I could not give you any godlier thing If I were king. CHAPTER I IN THE FIRCONE TAVERN In the dark main room of the Fircone Tavern the warm June air seemed to have lost all its delicacy, like a degraded angel. It was sodden through and through, as with the lees of wine; it was stained and shamed with the smells of hams and cheeses; it was thick and heavy as if with the breaths of all the rogues and all the vagabonds that had haunted the hostelry from its evil dawn... Continue reading book >>

If I Were King By: Justin McCarthy (1830-1912)

If I Were King by Justin McCarthy is a fascinating historical novel that transports the reader back to 15th-century France. The story revolves around the character of François Villon, a charismatic and cunning poet who finds himself unexpectedly crowned as the King of France.

McCarthy skillfully crafts a narrative that showcases the complexities of power and the inner workings of a medieval court. Through his vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations, he brings the streets of Paris and the halls of the palace to life. The book delves into the political and social dynamics of the time, exploring the struggle between the rulers and the ruled, the nobility and the commoners.

One of the strongest aspects of the novel is the depth and development of the protagonist, François Villon. McCarthy presents him as a deeply flawed and complex character, torn between his desires for power, love, and personal freedom. The inner conflicts he faces make his journey all the more engaging and relatable.

The author's prose is rich and vivid, evoking the sights, sounds, and even smells of medieval France. McCarthy's descriptions of the architecture, fashion, and culture of the time period help paint a vivid picture of the setting. Moreover, his dialogue is lively and authentic, providing further depth to the characters and their interactions.

While the pacing of the narrative may be slower at times, it allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world of the story. McCarthy's attention to detail is evident throughout, and his research into historical events and figures is commendable.

If I Were King is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of power, identity, and the human condition. Through its compelling storytelling and well-crafted characters, it leaves the reader contemplating the consequences of one's choices and the true nature of leadership.

Overall, Justin McCarthy's If I Were King is a captivating historical novel that offers a unique and immersive exploration of medieval France. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and descriptive prose, it is a book that will leave a lasting impression on readers who enjoy historical fiction.

First Page:

This eBook was created by Charles Aldarondo (pg@aldarondo.net).

IF I WERE KING

JUSTIN HUNTLY McCARTHY

DEDICATION

To Her

Through Whom and For Whom

This Book was Written

"The Loveliest Lady this side of Heaven."

XXI. XII. MCMI.

If I were king ah love, if I were king! What tributary nations would I bring To stoop before your sceptre and to swear Allegiance to your lips and eyes and hair. Beneath your feet what treasures I would fling: The stars should be your pearls upon a string, The world a ruby for your finger ring, And you should have the sun and moon to wear If I were king.

Let these wild dreams and wilder words take wing, Deep in the woods I hear a shepherd sing A simple ballad to a sylvan air, Of love that ever finds your face more fair. I could not give you any godlier thing If I were king.

CHAPTER I

IN THE FIRCONE TAVERN

In the dark main room of the Fircone Tavern the warm June air seemed to have lost all its delicacy, like a degraded angel. It was sodden through and through, as with the lees of wine; it was stained and shamed with the smells of hams and cheeses; it was thick and heavy as if with the breaths of all the rogues and all the vagabonds that had haunted the hostelry from its evil dawn... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
History
Literature

eBook links
Wikipedia – Justin McCarthy
Wikipedia – If I Were King

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