The Last Bourbon King: Charles X of France

In an era defined by revolution, upheaval, and the relentless march of progress, Charles X of France stood as a symbol of a vanishing world. As the last absolute monarch of the Bourbon dynasty, his life journey—from the gilded halls of Versailles to the bitter exile of a dethroned king—embodies the dramatic clashes between tradition and modernity. In this compelling biography, Dominique Aubert traces the life of Charles X with unparalleled detail and nuance. From his noble birth and early courtly education to his ascension amidst a fragile Bourbon Restoration, Charles’s reign was marked by fervent devotion to divine right monarchy and the Catholic Church. Yet, these very convictions would alienate a restless population increasingly drawn to Enlightenment ideals and democratic reform. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, Aubert unravels the key moments of Charles’s life: his controversial policies, his attempts to restore Bourbon authority, and the July Revolution of 1830 that led to his dramatic abdication and permanent exile. This work does not merely recount historical events but delves into the character of a monarch caught between his faith, duty, and the unstoppable forces of change. The Last Bourbon King is an intimate portrait of a ruler at the twilight of absolutism—a tale of power, legacy, and a nation on the brink of transformation. Perfect for history enthusiasts and readers captivated by the rise and fall of dynasties, this book offers an insightful exploration of one of France’s most pivotal and enigmatic figures.