The Story

This book is a historical investigation, not a novel. Jacob sets out to solve a real-life mystery: the identity of the famous 'Man in the Iron Mask,' the state prisoner held in French fortresses for decades under absolute secrecy. He sifts through old prison records, letters, and official documents, following clues left by ministers and jailers. The story traces the prisoner's movements from one isolated cell to another, the strange rules around his captivity, and the theories that swirled about him after his death. It's a slow-burn chase for the truth through the corridors of 17th-century power.

Why You Should Read It

What grabbed me was the feeling of watching a historian at work. Jacob builds his case piece by piece, like a lawyer presenting evidence. You see him weigh different possibilities—was it a disgraced noble? A secret brother of the king?—and explain why he lands on his conclusion. It makes you feel smart, like you're helping to crack the code. The real tension doesn't come from sword fights, but from the sheer, chilling power of a state that could make a person disappear without a trace.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who enjoy true crime or unsolved mysteries from a different era. If you're looking for Dumas-style adventure, look elsewhere—this is all about the facts (or at least, one man's compelling interpretation of them). It's a short, focused dive that gives you a lot to think about. You'll finish it and immediately want to go down an internet rabbit hole about the real Man in the Iron Mask, which is always the sign of a good history book.