Little Book Reviews 'The Scarlet Pimpernel'

Submitted by Allyson D. on Sun, 11/01/2020 - 03:23

I think for fun, I'm going to start talking about the books I've been reading from Kindle. They've mainly been fantasy, mystery, and historical fiction, as those are my favorite novel types.
I'll start with an older book I've had for some years, which is the Scarlet Pimpernel.
It's grown to be one of my most favorite books. The historical context of the French Revolution is fascinating, the details are rich, (though can be slightly gruesome) and the mystery surrounding the Scarlet Pimpernel is captivating. I also enjoy the main character, Marguerite. Though she has her arrogance and pride that leads her to keep a horrible secret from her husband and, for a time, disregard his feelings on the subject, she is loyal, willing to humble herself, recognize her mistakes, make amends, and do what it takes to protect the ones she loves.
Her husband, Percy, is also an enjoyable character. I started off believing he was the humorous idiot Marguerite thought him to be. But as the story progressed, I found he's a lot smarter than she gives him credit for, and has much more depth than originally revealed. His light-hearted and sometimes sarcastic humor also helps the reader fall in love with his character.
It's rather romantic as the two begin to really understand who the other is, when they risk their lives for each other, and a true love blossoms between them. It makes the story much more than a suspenseful mystery and adventure, but also a wholesome love story.
Because of some of the details about the French Revolution, slightly intimate flirting, and somewhat complicated vocabulary, I would recommend this novel for teens and up.

Author's age when written
26
Genre

Comments

This is one of my favorite books. Have you seen the movie adaption with Ian McKellan?