This book pulls you right into a specific, turbulent moment in Portugal's past. We're not getting the full, sweeping history here. Instead, it's a close-up on a relationship that defines an era: a king who is, by all accounts, failing spectacularly, and his most dedicated follower.

The Story

The 'Bad King' isn't just a little misguided. His decisions are selfish, short-sighted, and keep hurting the people he's supposed to protect. Standing opposite him is the 'Good Subject,' a figure of duty and reason who sees the damage being done. The whole story hangs on this push and pull. The subject tries to advise, to fix problems, to be the voice of the kingdom, while the king either ignores him or makes things worse. It's a masterclass in building frustration and dramatic tension from real events.

Why You Should Read It

What hooked me was how modern it felt. This isn't just about old kings and castles. It's about what you do when the person in charge is the problem. The Good Subject's struggle is timeless. When do you stop being loyal to a person and start being loyal to an idea, or to the people suffering? The book doesn't give easy answers, but it makes you feel the weight of that question.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who thinks history is just dates and dusty facts. This is history as human conflict. It's for readers who love a tense character study and stories about moral dilemmas in impossible situations. It's a compact, powerful read that proves you don't need a thousand pages to tell a story that sticks with you.