From Captive to Ruler
In August 1323, Sir Roger Mortimer, a captured rebel baron, achieved the impossible: he escaped the Tower of London, a fortress notorious for its impenetrability. With a combination of cunning and bravery, he drugged his guards and fled to France, where destiny awaited. In a twist of fate that would alter history, he formed a passionate alliance with Queen Isabella, the exiled wife of King Edward II. Together, they returned to England with an army, resulting in the fall of Edward II and the birth of a new ruling power.
A Controversial Legacy
Sir Roger Mortimer's journey is marked by ambition and moral ambiguity. He emerged as a formidable ruler, orchestrating one of the earliest recorded depositions of a monarch in Britain. However, his reign was shrouded in scandal, culminating in the mysterious death of Edward II in Berkeley Castle — rumors of treachery echoing through the ages. This biography meticulously investigates Mortimer's life, providing a vivid portrayal of his character as a leader: fierce, intelligent, and undeniably captivating.
Historical Significance
Graced with the insights of leading historians, The Greatest Traitor offers readers a fast-paced narrative that intertwines historical drama with personal intrigue. Mortimer's story is not just about power; it is a tale of love, betrayal, and ambition at the highest echelons of medieval society. This book is a tribute to those who have shaped history in unexpected ways.
Critical Acclaim
Celebrated by critics, this first full biography sheds light on a man who was both feared and revered. Described as "a compelling page-turner" by Alison Weir, it brings to light aspects of Mortimer's life previously unknown. Publishers Weekly notes the narrative's pace and entertainment value, while The New York Times praises it as remarkable detective work. As you delve into the pages of this book, prepare to be enthralled by the life and times of the man who changed England forever.
