The story imagines what life would have been like if Villon had been made king for a brief period and had the power to enact his own vision of justice and governance. The novel combines elements of swashbuckling adventure, romance, and political intrigue as it delves into the character of François Villon and the world of medieval Paris.Justin Huntly McCarthy was known for his historical novels, and "If I Were King" is one of his most famous works. The novel has been adapted into various stage and film productions, and it continues to be remembered for its portrayal of François Villon's colorful life and adventures in the French court.