Men of Iron

A quest for knighthood motivates Myles Falworth through rigorous training and dangerous jousting tournaments to confront a lifelong enemy and claim his true love. Myles Falworth determines that the only way he can restore his family's honor, undo the false charge of treason placed against his blind father by the arrogant Earl of Alban, is to become a knight of noble standing and challenge the Earl to single combat. Men of Iron is a historical novel of the 15th century, a coming of age story, and a swashbuckling tale of revenge and redemption. The hero's hard training and challenges on the road to becoming a knight build toward his confrontation with the cruel Earl. This final showdown proves to be a sustained climax of suspense and violent action that will charge even the most jaded modern reader with excitement. The author's deep research can be seen in the book's authentic details and vivid period color and enhance the narrative without slowing the pace. First published in 1891, the novel was made into a 1954 film, The Black Shield of Falworth starring Tony Curtis as Myles Falworth. With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Men of Iron is both modern and readable.

Howard Pyle (1853-1911) was an American artist and author celebrated for his drawings and painting for magazines and books. He was a teacher of art and several of his students went on to fame, including N.C. Wyeth and Maxfield Parrish. In addition to his visual art, Pyle wrote and illustrated a number of books that have become classics of their kind. The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood and The Story of King Arthur and His Knights became standard interpretations of those legends for generations. His fiction was distinguished by the same eye for drama, excitement and accurate historical color as was his painting.