23 out of 23 people found this review helpful.
I've Just Rediscovered this book
Date of Review: Nov 13, 2000
My mother always told me that there is a reason that classics remain classics. The Scarlet Pimpernel proves this. When I was nine, I discovered the Three Musketeers. After devouring all of the Dumas's works, I asked the librarian for something more. She said if I liked the Count of Monte Cristo, I would love the Scarlet Pimpernel. She was right...so very right indeed.
This mystery/thriller is set at the time of the French Revolution. The aristocrats have fallen from grace with the plebians and their heads are falling almost as fast under the guillotine. A band of intrepid Englishmen is rescuing many of the hated aristocrats, however. There leader goes by the name, "the Scarlet Pimpernel."
The new French government enlists the aid of an ex-patriot who is now living in England. She is blackmailed into helping for the sake of her brother's safety.
What follows is an amazingly exciting story, full of fictionalized versions of historical characters, intrigue, and close calls. As we discover the true identity of the Pimpernel, we cheer him on and marvel at his escapades and escapes. Like the antagonists, "We seek him here; we seek him there; those Frenchies seek him everywhere. Is he in heaven? Is he in hell, that demmed elusive Pimpernel." If you want to know the answer, you'll have to read the book.
