The Scarlet Pimpernel

By: Baroness Orczy

Narrated by: Ralph Cosham

Length: 8 hrs and 19 mins

Publisher's summary

"Who is this man, this Scarlet Pimpernel?" Each day this question grew more pressing to the leaders of the French Revolution. Only this man and his band of followers threatened their total power. Only this maddeningly elusive figure defied the vast network of fanatics, informers, and secret agents that the Revolution spread out to catch its enemies.

Some said this man of many disguises, endless ruses, and infinite daring was an exiled French nobleman, returned to wreak vengeance. Others said he was an English lord, seeking sheer adventure and supreme sport in playing the most dangerous game of all. But of only one thing could those who sought him be sure. They knew all too well the symbol of his presence: the blood-red flower known as the Scarlet Pimpernel.

(P)2005 Blackstone Audio Inc.

Critic reviews

"A swashbuckling adventure tale of epic proportions...an exciting, fast-paced story." (Large Print Reviews)
"Arguably the best adventure story ever published, and certainly the most influential that appeared during the early decades of the 20th century." (Gary Hoppenstand)

The Allure and Intrigue.... LOVE! 🕯

I read the Scarlet Pimpernel many years ago. My memory of it was scattered, so I happily purchase this 'Daily Deal' sale book. Oh my! The mystery, theater and comedy… What a joy and thrill to revisit this classic. Highly recommended! 🕯

A great classic romance!

Fun to revisit this story after 20+ years. It's got everything - romance, action, adventure, intrigue. I found myself looking for chores to do around the house so I could listen more!

Historical fiction at it's most enjoyable!

The story is outstanding, and the historic situation brilliantly illustrated, making even the nuance accessible. It's funny, continuously engaging, and well narrated.

So exciting!

I had so much fun listening to this book! I swear, I got nothing done because I was so captivated.

Very entertaining

This book is a great addition to any library thats owner appreciates classic story telling and brilliant narration. I am exceedingly pleased that I have taken the time to listen to The Scarlet Pimpernel.

an interesting classic

Yes, its a must-read. There is the villain, the hero, the princess in distress, the cunning plot and escape... all the elements. At the same time it gives a good view into the time of the novels writing.

That damned elusive Pimpernel!

Set during the French Revolution, an Englishman embarks on clandestine rescues of aristocrats and their families from execution by smuggling them into England. The justification being that the new French courts are becoming drunk on power and people were being sentenced to die just because of their wealth and/or who they’re related to. Also anyone questioning the policies of the new government were targeted. I know very little about this and make no claim to it’s historical accuracy, but it makes a great backdrop.

The writing is kind of meh, but I had so much fun with the high drama of this snappy adventure, I barely noticed. Chock full of Intrigues and passions and daring escapes.

I think the Scarlet Pimpernel is an inspiration for Batman (surely not an original thought). A wealthy aristocrat dons disguises to fight injustice in secret while pretending to be an inane fop in public. This sword wielding vigilante was published fifteen years before Zorro, who is often credited as an inspiration for Batman.

My favorite book!

I've read this several times but this was my first time listening to it. love it! so good!

Oldie but Goodue

I loved it!! I enjoy books with a little mystery and good humor! Well done!!

fun romp

This classic tale of daring-do was a fun distraction from the worries of today's world. but just as in 1792, human nature is still the same in 2023. Heros, villains, best of human nature and worst of human nature portrayed in the tale.