The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczk

The Scarlet Pimpernel
by Eummuska Orczy
Pages: 271
Published by Barnes & Noble Classic
Publication Date August 1st 2005
Source: Bought
Genres: Classic
Goodreads

In the year 1792, Sir Percy and Lady Marguerite Blakeney are the darlings of British society—he is known as one of the wealthiest men in England and a dimwit; she is French, a stunning former actress, and the cleverest woman in Europe—and they find themselves at the center of a deadly political intrigue. The Reign of Terror controls France, and every day aristocrats in Paris fall victim to Madame la Guillotine. Only one man can rescue them—the Scarlet Pimpernel—a master of disguises who leaves a calling card bearing only a signature red flower. As the fascinating connection between the Blakeneys and this mysterious hero is revealed, they are forced to choose between love and loyalty in order to avoid the French agent Chauvelin, who relentlessly hunts the Scarlet Pimpernel.

First Impressions

I went into The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczk knowing the identity of That damned elusive Pimpernel.  While it was no surprise I was still kept on the edge of my seat. 

Impressions While Reading

Baroness Orczk’s novel is at once a tale of espionage,suspense, action and even a little romance.  At first I had a strong dislike Lady Marguerite Blakeney. Although it is done unknowingly, she betrays her husband for the safety of her brother. Therefore, she trades one man’s life for another.  Lady Blakeney does redeem herself after realizing the true identity of the mysterious figure. I found the discovery of this information to be very cleverly executed.  What ensues is quite literary a cat and mouse chase between Marguerite Blakeney and agent Chauvelinin. It is a race to capture the elusive Scarlet Pimpernel. 

Final Impressions

The conclusion is exquisite, and the only negative I can say about the book is that  I guessed Scarlet Pimpernel’s final disguise, but is still a phenomenal read.