The Scarlet Pimpernel

The Scarlet Pimpernel is the first in a series of historical fiction by Baroness Emma Orczy, a Hungarian-born English writer, playwright and artist. First published in1905, it was set during the Reign of Terror following the start of the French Revolution which occurred in the latter part of the eighteenth century and involved the overthrow of the French monarchy.

This classic adventure novel tells the story of Sir Percy Blakeney, a wealthy, chivalrous Englishman, sympathetic to the crisis in the aristocratic ranks, and who, using a secret identity, is a daring rescuer who sneaks French royals out of the country to safety across the English Channel before they can be sent to the guillotine.

Blakeney leads a double life, appearing to be nothing more than a meek, ineffectual wealthy man overly concerned with his clothes and appearance, while in reality he is an excellent swordsman, a quick-thinking master of disguise and an escape artist. He is supported by a band of gentlemen who are the only ones who know of his secret identity. Upon making a clean escape from the French patrols, Blakeney leaves a note describing the caper, which is signed with a red, star-shaped flower the English call a scarlet pimpernel. Starring a colorful cast of characters and an exciting plot line, this classic novel is an unforgettable reading experience that will leave you craving more.

A timeless classic that has captivated readers for over a century this thrilling tale of romance and heroism has inspired other superheroes who also cultivate a secret identity, including Superman, Batman, and Zorro.