This ninth and final volume wraps up the massive personal account of Auguste Marmont, one of Napoleon's original marshals. It covers the dramatic and chaotic years leading to Napoleon's first fall, culminating in Marmont's fateful decision in 1814. With the Allies at the gates of Paris, Marmont, in command of the city's defense, negotiated a surrender. This act spared Paris from destruction but handed the capital to the enemy and shattered the last hope for Napoleon's regime. The book then follows Marmont into a long exile, living under the shadow of his infamous reputation.

Why You Should Read It

You get history straight from the horse's mouth, flaws and all. Marmont isn't a neutral historian; he's a proud, often prickly man trying to set the record straight. Reading his justification for the surrender of Paris is fascinating. He argues it was a horrible choice between two evils, made to save the city and its people. You can feel his bitterness toward those who called him a traitor. It makes you question how we judge historical figures. This isn't a dry list of battles; it's a deeply personal story of friendship, ambition, and a legacy gone terribly wrong.

Final Verdict

Perfect for history buffs who enjoy primary sources and messy, complicated characters. If you've read accounts of the Napoleonic Wars from Napoleon's perspective or his loyalists, this is the crucial 'other side of the story.' It's also great for anyone interested in the psychology of reputation and betrayal. Be warned: Marmont can be long-winded and defensive, but that's what makes it so human. You're not getting a polished legend; you're getting a flawed man's last word.