The Cardboard King

A fractured family. A wounded nation. A traitor in the ranks. 

Spain, 1973. General Franco has ruled for decades but his grip on the country is weakening as his health deteriorates. When terrorists assassinate his prime minister, all eyes turn to Franco’s anointed successor, the inexperienced Prince Juan Carlos.

Despite being groomed by Franco from a young age, the prince harbours a secret ambition to dismantle the dictator’s regime. In the years following Franco’s death, terrorist attacks become a daily occurrence and Spain descends into economic turmoil. Juan Carlos must decide whom he can trust to restore order.

When armed forces launch a violent coup, the nation teeters on the brink of another civil war. Will Franco’s heir protect his crown – or gamble everything to forge Spain’s new future?

A sweeping political thriller based on true events, this is the extraordinary story of how a prince Spain didn’t want turned out to be the monarch his country needed.

Available as a paperback and an ebook

“Fascinating…all of the principal characters are brought vividly to life.” – Frank on Goodreads

“Gives readers the kind of behind-the-scenes access that history lovers can’t resist.” – Jennie Reads