During the 100 Years War (1337–1453), King Edward III of England laid siege to the French city of Calais. After almost a year, starvation led the Calesians to bargain terms of surrender. The King agreed to lift the siege, but only if six of the city’s most prominent citizens gave themselves up to be executed. Six “burghers” complied—only to be saved when the King’s wife, Queen Philippa, intervened. It’s a stirring tale of woe, self-sacrifice, and redemption, and an exciting portrayal of medieval