The narrative centers on the life and political ascent of Richard III, exploring the weight of the crown and the moral compromises required to maintain power. As the protagonist navigates the treacherous landscape of the Wars of the Roses, he faces opposition from rival factions, internal familial betrayal, and the shifting loyalties of the English nobility. The story follows his trajectory from a younger son to the throne, highlighting the psychological toll of his ambition and the isolation that accompanies his rule. Bowen employs a traditional narrative framework to examine the man behind the historical villainy, focusing on the tension between his personal desires and his perceived duty to the state.

This work is regarded as a significant entry in the historical fiction genre, noted for its attempt to humanize a figure often relegated to the role of a historical villain. The narrative style reflects the author's commitment to period detail and psychological depth, which provides a nuanced perspective on the political instability of the era. Readers often appreciate the balance between historical accuracy and the creative interpretation of Richard III's inner life. The book remains a notable example of mid-twentieth-century historical writing that prioritizes character development over mere spectacle.