This work is the culmination of years of research into the royal family of Montenegro and its role in European history. The focus is on the life and times of King Nikola I of Montenegro (1841-1921), an era during which the country played a vital role in European dynastic and political affairs. personal letters and diaries, and drawing on a wealth of material from the archives held by the Museum of King Nikola I in Cetinje, the book tells the story of Montenegro's last ruler and his family. It delves into the remarkable marriages, political triumphs and disasters, the ruler's pivotal role in World War I and the family's lives as exiles. There is also a huge amount of historic material both photographic and documentary, as well as in-depth treatment of related topics: earlier Montenegrin and Balkan history, relations with Serbia's royal family, and international relations.