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Jane Austen's Fighting Men #2
The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel
The worlds of Jane Austen and the Baroness Orczy combine in a swashbuckling tale from the author of The Three Colonels.
Captain Frederick Tilney, dashing cavalry officer and rakish heir to Northanger Abbey, is interested only in fencing and enjoying himself. That is, until he meets the girl of his dreams, the lovely and intriguing Violet Blakeney.
However, her father is not convinced of Frederick's pledge to reform and the officer is banished from Violet’s presence. The baronet has a will of iron, for he is none other than Sir Percy Blakeney—the retired Scarlet Pimpernel!
Now, during the Hundred Days Crisis, an evil from the Pimpernel's past menaces the Blakeney family while Sir Percy is crippled by age. Frederick must convince the baronet to accept his assistance in accomplishing the impossible—take on an entire country to recuse the girl they both love.
Captain Frederick Tilney, dashing cavalry officer and rakish heir to Northanger Abbey, is interested only in fencing and enjoying himself. That is, until he meets the girl of his dreams, the lovely and intriguing Violet Blakeney.
However, her father is not convinced of Frederick's pledge to reform and the officer is banished from Violet’s presence. The baronet has a will of iron, for he is none other than Sir Percy Blakeney—the retired Scarlet Pimpernel!
Now, during the Hundred Days Crisis, an evil from the Pimpernel's past menaces the Blakeney family while Sir Percy is crippled by age. Frederick must convince the baronet to accept his assistance in accomplishing the impossible—take on an entire country to recuse the girl they both love.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2016
14 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Jack Caldwell
35 books102 followersJack Caldwell, born and raised in the Bayou County of Louisiana, is an author, amateur historian, professional economic developer, playwright, and like many Cajuns, a darn good cook.
His nickname -- The Cajun Cheesehead -- came from his devotion to his two favorite NFL teams: the New Orleans Saints and the Green Bay Packers. (Every now and then, Jack has to play the DVD again to make sure the Saints really won in 2010.)
Always a history buff, Jack found and fell in love with Jane Austen in his twenties, struck by her innate understanding of the human condition. Jack uses his work to share his knowledge of history. Through his characters, he hopes the reader gains a better understanding of what went on before, developing an appreciation for our ancestors' trials and tribulations.
When not writing or traveling with Barbara, Jack attempts to play golf. A devout convert to Roman Catholicism, Jack is married with three grown sons.
Jack's blog postings -- The Cajun Cheesehead Chronicles -- appear regularly at Austen Variations.
His nickname -- The Cajun Cheesehead -- came from his devotion to his two favorite NFL teams: the New Orleans Saints and the Green Bay Packers. (Every now and then, Jack has to play the DVD again to make sure the Saints really won in 2010.)
Always a history buff, Jack found and fell in love with Jane Austen in his twenties, struck by her innate understanding of the human condition. Jack uses his work to share his knowledge of history. Through his characters, he hopes the reader gains a better understanding of what went on before, developing an appreciation for our ancestors' trials and tribulations.
When not writing or traveling with Barbara, Jack attempts to play golf. A devout convert to Roman Catholicism, Jack is married with three grown sons.
Jack's blog postings -- The Cajun Cheesehead Chronicles -- appear regularly at Austen Variations.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 15, 2016
What an adventure! I had tears in my eyes as we reached the climax and conclusion and the Scarlet Pimpernel took his final bow as such. Some of what made this so dramatic is that this man, who is advancing in age and despite his regular attention to his fencing abilities, etc., is suffering from the affects of rheumatism. I was holding my breath as he initially refuses any help and goes off the face the enemy in France basically alone. But plans changed and it all came together in an excellent variation. Jack’s writing is superb: his knowledge of fencing, his use of French phrases and history all kept this story so real to someone who has none of those skills but who appreciates having them written is a way that brought them to life.
The story begins slowly and builds as Jack brings a large percentage of Jane Austen’s characters into this mash-up with the Scarlet Pimpernel and history around the time of Waterloo. I was laughing at some of the characters: Lady Susan’s cuckolded husband sitting next to her lover, who is skillfully draining the man’s pockets, Henry and Catherine Tilney nee: Morland giving advice to a love stricken man, M/M Darcy, Caroline Bingley and her husband, Sir John Buford. And, hats off to Jack, I loved the way he took Captain Frederick Tilney, a rake with few morals in Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey and slowly led him to reform his character, a step forward and then two steps back. The realism of this connected so strongly for me.
Sir Percy Blakeney and his wife, Lady Marguerite, are still so much in love. I had not read the book, The Scarlet Pimpernel, in the past, but in anticipation of this, Jack’s latest book, did so and the one scene in which he bends down and kisses the spots on which Margot had walked away still resound in my memory. I do so love a good love story and this still has a couple totally dedicated to each other as they get on in years. But there are two offspring and it is their friendships which bring Captain Tilney into their world. And as this young roué finds his charm and good looks alone are not going to win a place in Violet Blakeney’s parents approval (especially Sir Percy’s) he finds himself struggling against forces which place him out of favor, even further.
His father has used his influence to gain a place near the Regent and out of danger for his son and wants him to use this placement to make connections for a good marriage but this also takes Tilney out of the action as Napoleon returns from Elba. Subsequently it also throws Tilney back into circles with reputations frowned upon…especially by parents wanting all that is honorable for their daughter.
As the stage is set the action becomes tense near the middle of the story and then I could not stop reading. I know we are guaranteed a happy ending but when it is a matter of live and death, not just love found or lost, the story is so much more gripping. I highly recommend this book to all. It may just be my favorite to date of the author’s books.
The story begins slowly and builds as Jack brings a large percentage of Jane Austen’s characters into this mash-up with the Scarlet Pimpernel and history around the time of Waterloo. I was laughing at some of the characters: Lady Susan’s cuckolded husband sitting next to her lover, who is skillfully draining the man’s pockets, Henry and Catherine Tilney nee: Morland giving advice to a love stricken man, M/M Darcy, Caroline Bingley and her husband, Sir John Buford. And, hats off to Jack, I loved the way he took Captain Frederick Tilney, a rake with few morals in Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey and slowly led him to reform his character, a step forward and then two steps back. The realism of this connected so strongly for me.
Sir Percy Blakeney and his wife, Lady Marguerite, are still so much in love. I had not read the book, The Scarlet Pimpernel, in the past, but in anticipation of this, Jack’s latest book, did so and the one scene in which he bends down and kisses the spots on which Margot had walked away still resound in my memory. I do so love a good love story and this still has a couple totally dedicated to each other as they get on in years. But there are two offspring and it is their friendships which bring Captain Tilney into their world. And as this young roué finds his charm and good looks alone are not going to win a place in Violet Blakeney’s parents approval (especially Sir Percy’s) he finds himself struggling against forces which place him out of favor, even further.
His father has used his influence to gain a place near the Regent and out of danger for his son and wants him to use this placement to make connections for a good marriage but this also takes Tilney out of the action as Napoleon returns from Elba. Subsequently it also throws Tilney back into circles with reputations frowned upon…especially by parents wanting all that is honorable for their daughter.
As the stage is set the action becomes tense near the middle of the story and then I could not stop reading. I know we are guaranteed a happy ending but when it is a matter of live and death, not just love found or lost, the story is so much more gripping. I highly recommend this book to all. It may just be my favorite to date of the author’s books.
October 29, 2016
The sequel to two classics and a cunning romantic adventure is a heady temptation and I certainly couldn't resist. And why would I want to when I've read this author's fantastic books already.
Baroness Orczy's The Scarlet Pimpernel and Jane Austen's novels, predominantly Northanger Abbey are melded together for a sequel that takes place about twenty years after The Scarlet Pimpernel and a few years after the events of Northanger Abbey.
The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel is also the second book in the Jane Austen's Fighting Men series following The Three Colonels. I've read both and personally I would describe it as a companion novel since this one begins during the first story and there are crossover characters and events. But that said, the shared events are minor since the main cast of characters and plot are new and follow it's own course.
The story opens with Captain Frederick Tilney fighting a duel of honor. Again. But this time, one of his best friends, Sir John Buford, tells him that Buford has taken stock of his life and plans to change- clean up his reputation and live honorably. This change involves cutting loose Frederick since Frederick still has no plans to change and still can't see where he has caused many of his own sticky situations. Buford's rejection is like a slap in the face. His other friend Blakeney stands by him, but also counsels caution.
Frederick keeps going on as he has been until he falls for Blakeney's now grown up sister, Violet. She is everything he wants and realizes that he wants to change for her. But unfortunately, a misstep and his past cause her father to cut him off.
The loss of his courtship to Violet along with his transfer to the Horse Guards and getting on the bad side of his new commander while getting the constant grumblings from his own father leave Frederick frustrated until the situation in France boils over and his lady is caught in the troubles. The Scarlet Pimpernel is forced out of retirement and Frederick wants in on the adventure.
This book was a pleasure from cover to cover. I did enjoy the weaving of classic stories together and it was well-done. While this primarily focused on certain Northanger Abbey characters, I enjoyed meeting oh so many more from all her novels and at least one novella. I've only watched the movie adaption of The Scarlet Pimperel, but I had no trouble recognizing old characters and seeing the ties to the past. I thought the author did great with bringing those characters, older and living their lives at peace, back to living color.
I also appreciated the brilliant move to make Frederick Tilney a main player and give this minor character in Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey a chance to grow and turn into a dashing hero of honor. Yes, that was probably my favorite part was the remaking of Frederick Tilney.
But, I also enjoyed this new story with it's own original plot threads starting separate and then being brought together for that exciting and breath-taking ending. The historical settings were diverse and well drawn so that I could see them all so clearly whether Paris, English countryside or glittering London. I also enjoyed all the touches of military and espionage authenticities as these are strong elements. Then changing of the guard was a vivid scene as was Frederick's fencing scenes.
I am now quite eager for the next in this series and can't wait. I think fans of both classic authors would love this book, but also the broader audience of sweet historical romance.
Baroness Orczy's The Scarlet Pimpernel and Jane Austen's novels, predominantly Northanger Abbey are melded together for a sequel that takes place about twenty years after The Scarlet Pimpernel and a few years after the events of Northanger Abbey.
The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel is also the second book in the Jane Austen's Fighting Men series following The Three Colonels. I've read both and personally I would describe it as a companion novel since this one begins during the first story and there are crossover characters and events. But that said, the shared events are minor since the main cast of characters and plot are new and follow it's own course.
The story opens with Captain Frederick Tilney fighting a duel of honor. Again. But this time, one of his best friends, Sir John Buford, tells him that Buford has taken stock of his life and plans to change- clean up his reputation and live honorably. This change involves cutting loose Frederick since Frederick still has no plans to change and still can't see where he has caused many of his own sticky situations. Buford's rejection is like a slap in the face. His other friend Blakeney stands by him, but also counsels caution.
Frederick keeps going on as he has been until he falls for Blakeney's now grown up sister, Violet. She is everything he wants and realizes that he wants to change for her. But unfortunately, a misstep and his past cause her father to cut him off.
The loss of his courtship to Violet along with his transfer to the Horse Guards and getting on the bad side of his new commander while getting the constant grumblings from his own father leave Frederick frustrated until the situation in France boils over and his lady is caught in the troubles. The Scarlet Pimpernel is forced out of retirement and Frederick wants in on the adventure.
This book was a pleasure from cover to cover. I did enjoy the weaving of classic stories together and it was well-done. While this primarily focused on certain Northanger Abbey characters, I enjoyed meeting oh so many more from all her novels and at least one novella. I've only watched the movie adaption of The Scarlet Pimperel, but I had no trouble recognizing old characters and seeing the ties to the past. I thought the author did great with bringing those characters, older and living their lives at peace, back to living color.
I also appreciated the brilliant move to make Frederick Tilney a main player and give this minor character in Jane Austen's Northanger Abbey a chance to grow and turn into a dashing hero of honor. Yes, that was probably my favorite part was the remaking of Frederick Tilney.
But, I also enjoyed this new story with it's own original plot threads starting separate and then being brought together for that exciting and breath-taking ending. The historical settings were diverse and well drawn so that I could see them all so clearly whether Paris, English countryside or glittering London. I also enjoyed all the touches of military and espionage authenticities as these are strong elements. Then changing of the guard was a vivid scene as was Frederick's fencing scenes.
I am now quite eager for the next in this series and can't wait. I think fans of both classic authors would love this book, but also the broader audience of sweet historical romance.
August 8, 2016
I received an a reader's copy of this book to review and am so glad I did. The Scarlet Pimpernel is one of my all-time favorite characters and Mr Caldwell understands him so well. The book is written in a style reminiscent of the original. The classic characters ring true. The bravado, humor, and surprises are all there. The only thing I could quip about is the fact that Margot's being an intellectual of Paris in the past is left out. Instead, she is his devoted wife and once celebrated actress.
The story revolves around a love affair involving one of his children which takes you on a path of adventure and redemption. The redemption part of the story was written in a believable way with real effort on the part of the character with the motivation felt by the reader. Even though, the love story is the main part of the book, there is so much more in the way of JAFF characters. It seems that all our favorites have shown up to the party. None of them detract or seem to be there to just "represent." They all have their function. I am grateful that Mr Caldwell took the time to hone the story into one of beauty.
The real star to me in the story was the Scarlet Pimpernel! Still wonderful after all these years. I wish this was a series. I loved it that much. There was a twist in the last few chapters that I took me completely by surprise in true Pimpernel style! Fans will not be disappointed.
Thank you so much for such a wonderful read. I plan to read it again after reading The Three Colonels to go with it. Loved it so much!
The story revolves around a love affair involving one of his children which takes you on a path of adventure and redemption. The redemption part of the story was written in a believable way with real effort on the part of the character with the motivation felt by the reader. Even though, the love story is the main part of the book, there is so much more in the way of JAFF characters. It seems that all our favorites have shown up to the party. None of them detract or seem to be there to just "represent." They all have their function. I am grateful that Mr Caldwell took the time to hone the story into one of beauty.
The real star to me in the story was the Scarlet Pimpernel! Still wonderful after all these years. I wish this was a series. I loved it that much. There was a twist in the last few chapters that I took me completely by surprise in true Pimpernel style! Fans will not be disappointed.
Thank you so much for such a wonderful read. I plan to read it again after reading The Three Colonels to go with it. Loved it so much!
November 20, 2017
He has waited twenty years for revenge and he will do anything to achieve it! So begins the 'final chapter' in "The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel".
What a rousing adventure of revenge, romance and redemption...all great elements of an exciting journey. In the opening of book 2 of Mr. Caldwell's 'Jane Austen's Fighting Men', we have the handsome rake and soldier, Captain Frederick Tilney of Northanger Abbey, defending his actions for being a most determined flirt with a duel. As he parts ways with his opponent, he tells him:
"You are a fool, Sir Robert, but a brave fool. Live and learn from this. Trust no woman."
Famous last words from a man who has yet to be fully 'struck' by love. The bolt of lightening strikes as he is re-introduced to Miss Violet Blakeney, who he remembers only as a child. He soon finds himself face to face with a man whose honour and actions have set him above your average aristocrat...Baronet Percy Blakeney, the Scarlet Pimpernel, her father. However, evil forces are at work on the Continent as intrigues, manipulations and revenge start slowly building and place our characters in danger.
There was so much that I loved in this book. Mr. Caldwell has deftly combined the characters by Jane Austen and Baroness Emma Orczy into this story. We not only have the Tilneys, but interaction with the Darcys, Colonel Brandon and Marianne, Lord and Lady Matlock, and his own creation, Colonel John Buford to name a few. I enjoyed the development of Captain Tilney's character along with the building intensity of this story. It was gradual and as the danger increased, so did the pace. I also loved the deep and abiding love of Sir Percy and his wife. Lady Blakeney is fabulous in this story!
Before reading this book, I had read Baroness Orczy's 'The Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel' to refresh my memory of the story. I only ever remember seeing the movie. Then I re-read "The Three Colonels (Jane Austen's Fighting Men #1)", which is one of my favourite books. Do you have to read these first? No, but I strongly recommend that you do, so you have a deeper appreciation of the overall story both before and after.
What a rousing adventure of revenge, romance and redemption...all great elements of an exciting journey. In the opening of book 2 of Mr. Caldwell's 'Jane Austen's Fighting Men', we have the handsome rake and soldier, Captain Frederick Tilney of Northanger Abbey, defending his actions for being a most determined flirt with a duel. As he parts ways with his opponent, he tells him:
"You are a fool, Sir Robert, but a brave fool. Live and learn from this. Trust no woman."
Famous last words from a man who has yet to be fully 'struck' by love. The bolt of lightening strikes as he is re-introduced to Miss Violet Blakeney, who he remembers only as a child. He soon finds himself face to face with a man whose honour and actions have set him above your average aristocrat...Baronet Percy Blakeney, the Scarlet Pimpernel, her father. However, evil forces are at work on the Continent as intrigues, manipulations and revenge start slowly building and place our characters in danger.
There was so much that I loved in this book. Mr. Caldwell has deftly combined the characters by Jane Austen and Baroness Emma Orczy into this story. We not only have the Tilneys, but interaction with the Darcys, Colonel Brandon and Marianne, Lord and Lady Matlock, and his own creation, Colonel John Buford to name a few. I enjoyed the development of Captain Tilney's character along with the building intensity of this story. It was gradual and as the danger increased, so did the pace. I also loved the deep and abiding love of Sir Percy and his wife. Lady Blakeney is fabulous in this story!
Before reading this book, I had read Baroness Orczy's 'The Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel' to refresh my memory of the story. I only ever remember seeing the movie. Then I re-read "The Three Colonels (Jane Austen's Fighting Men #1)", which is one of my favourite books. Do you have to read these first? No, but I strongly recommend that you do, so you have a deeper appreciation of the overall story both before and after.
October 28, 2021
Everything about this book was perfection. I can't wait to read it again. Percy Blakeney is the swooniest hero of them all.
September 11, 2016
I enjoyed reading The Last Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel! It's a companion to The Three Colonels, but it can also stand-alone - which is good because I haven’t read the first yet! (note to self - must read!)
In The Last Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel, we find Captain Tilney (of Northanger Abbey) in love with Violet Blakeney - the daughter of Sir Percy, AKA the Scarlet Pimpernel; a fact that Captain Tilney is not aware of. Sir Percy is very protective of Violet. He doesn’t think Tilney is worthy of her, and with Tilney's past behaviors, Sir Percy has every right to feel that way. But love has a way of changing a man. Now Captain Tilney must work hard to prove his worth. Unfortunately, nothing seems to go well for poor Tilney! Will he ever be with his beloved Violet?
When The Pimpernel is forced out of retirement by an enemy he thought was long dead, Tilney insists on helping. Will Sir Percy accept his help and see what a good man he truly is?
I felt so bad for Tilney when everyone and everything seemed to be against him! Sure, his past is sprinkled in reckless and rakish behavior, but falling in love with Violet made him want to be a better person. Even when he thinks all chances to be with Violet are gone, he strives to be better.
I loved Sir Percy and his wife, Lady Blakeney. I loved seeing them together; still madly in love after so many years! It was beautiful to see.
Having not read The Three Colonels I didn’t know the correlation between the characters from that book, but I did love seeing the characters from Jane Austen’s books working and interacting together! It was fabulous!
Also, I have not read The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy either. I wish I had. I have nothing to compare Caldwell's Pimpernel to, except for watching the movie, but I would love to read it now!
The Last Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel is a terrific book! Easy to read (historical facts were smoothly written into the storyline), with some excitement, danger, and romance! I would recommend it to any Austen fan!
FTC Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
In The Last Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel, we find Captain Tilney (of Northanger Abbey) in love with Violet Blakeney - the daughter of Sir Percy, AKA the Scarlet Pimpernel; a fact that Captain Tilney is not aware of. Sir Percy is very protective of Violet. He doesn’t think Tilney is worthy of her, and with Tilney's past behaviors, Sir Percy has every right to feel that way. But love has a way of changing a man. Now Captain Tilney must work hard to prove his worth. Unfortunately, nothing seems to go well for poor Tilney! Will he ever be with his beloved Violet?
When The Pimpernel is forced out of retirement by an enemy he thought was long dead, Tilney insists on helping. Will Sir Percy accept his help and see what a good man he truly is?
I felt so bad for Tilney when everyone and everything seemed to be against him! Sure, his past is sprinkled in reckless and rakish behavior, but falling in love with Violet made him want to be a better person. Even when he thinks all chances to be with Violet are gone, he strives to be better.
I loved Sir Percy and his wife, Lady Blakeney. I loved seeing them together; still madly in love after so many years! It was beautiful to see.
Having not read The Three Colonels I didn’t know the correlation between the characters from that book, but I did love seeing the characters from Jane Austen’s books working and interacting together! It was fabulous!
Also, I have not read The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy either. I wish I had. I have nothing to compare Caldwell's Pimpernel to, except for watching the movie, but I would love to read it now!
The Last Adventures of the Scarlet Pimpernel is a terrific book! Easy to read (historical facts were smoothly written into the storyline), with some excitement, danger, and romance! I would recommend it to any Austen fan!
FTC Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book from the author for my honest review.
October 9, 2022
3.5. The Scarlet Pimpernel is my favorite! I thought this book was pretty slow getting started, but once it got into some good Pimpernel stuff, it was really fun.
October 19, 2016
Jack Caldwell says that it takes a real man to write historical romance.
And after reading several of his books, I have to agree.
Although I have not yet read the first book in his Jane Austen's Fighting Men series, this second book. The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, was amazing. I've been a devoted fan of the Scarlet Pimpernel since watching the made-for-TV movie from the early '80s in my high school English class. Starring Anthony Andrews as Sir Percy, Jane Seymour as Marguerite, and Ian McKellen as Chauvelin, I was immediately swept up by the adventure and romance. In fact, I felt that this film was the exception to "the book is better than the movie" adage. I read several of Baroness Orczy's Scarlet Pimpernel novels while in college and graduate school, and I found them scattered, unfocused, and at times actually boring.
So when a lovely copy of The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel signed by Jack himself, appeared in my mailbox, I was thrilled to have won the book in a drawing hosted by Austen Variations. And although Northanger Abbey isn't my favorite Austen novel, I was quickly pulled into Frederick Tilney's story . . . and his love-at-first-sight for the lovely Violet Blakeney, daughter of Sir Percy and Lady Blakeney. But despite the passing of a quarter of a century, machinations in Paris, brought about by Napoleon's escape from Elba, will draw Sir Percy into a trap set by a former patriot of the Republic. (Anyone who knows Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities will recognize Lafarge, the Parisian wine merchant and supporter of the Republic, immediately--a clever allusion, Mr. Caldwell!) And thus the League of the Scarlet Pimpernel is reformed with some younger members, to end the final enemy of the Scarlet Pimpernel and insure the safety of his legacy.
We get glimpses of other Austen characters, including Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy, Miss Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, the Tilney family, and Colonel Brandon, as the story unfolds. A cleverly-woven story of romance, intrigue, revenge, and adventure, this book is utterly unputdownable (I don't think that's a word, but it's an accurate description). Okay, "compelling" is more grammatically acceptable and definitely more concise--and it is indeed a compelling read. The main focus is on Frederick Tilney and his growth in character when seeking the hand of the beautiful and spirited Violet. But winning Violet's heart is one thing; earning Sir Percy's trust is quite another.
A wonderful read--especially for fans of The Scarlet Pimpernel films. While Mr. Caldwell prefers Leslie Howard's 1934 foray into this character, I read this entire book imagining Anthony Andrews and Jane Seymour as we see them today as Sir Percy and Marguerite. And I couldn't help but envision Tom Mison (Ichabod Crane in the Sleepy Hollow television series) as Frederick. In fact, I feel a great need to re-watch both the 1982 Scarlet Pimpernel and at least the first season of Sleepy Hollow.
And yes, Mr. Caldwell, I will seek a copy of Leslie Howard's portrayal of Sir Percy as well.
And after reading several of his books, I have to agree.
Although I have not yet read the first book in his Jane Austen's Fighting Men series, this second book. The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, was amazing. I've been a devoted fan of the Scarlet Pimpernel since watching the made-for-TV movie from the early '80s in my high school English class. Starring Anthony Andrews as Sir Percy, Jane Seymour as Marguerite, and Ian McKellen as Chauvelin, I was immediately swept up by the adventure and romance. In fact, I felt that this film was the exception to "the book is better than the movie" adage. I read several of Baroness Orczy's Scarlet Pimpernel novels while in college and graduate school, and I found them scattered, unfocused, and at times actually boring.
So when a lovely copy of The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel signed by Jack himself, appeared in my mailbox, I was thrilled to have won the book in a drawing hosted by Austen Variations. And although Northanger Abbey isn't my favorite Austen novel, I was quickly pulled into Frederick Tilney's story . . . and his love-at-first-sight for the lovely Violet Blakeney, daughter of Sir Percy and Lady Blakeney. But despite the passing of a quarter of a century, machinations in Paris, brought about by Napoleon's escape from Elba, will draw Sir Percy into a trap set by a former patriot of the Republic. (Anyone who knows Dickens' A Tale of Two Cities will recognize Lafarge, the Parisian wine merchant and supporter of the Republic, immediately--a clever allusion, Mr. Caldwell!) And thus the League of the Scarlet Pimpernel is reformed with some younger members, to end the final enemy of the Scarlet Pimpernel and insure the safety of his legacy.
We get glimpses of other Austen characters, including Fitzwilliam and Elizabeth Darcy, Miss Bingley, Colonel Fitzwilliam, the Tilney family, and Colonel Brandon, as the story unfolds. A cleverly-woven story of romance, intrigue, revenge, and adventure, this book is utterly unputdownable (I don't think that's a word, but it's an accurate description). Okay, "compelling" is more grammatically acceptable and definitely more concise--and it is indeed a compelling read. The main focus is on Frederick Tilney and his growth in character when seeking the hand of the beautiful and spirited Violet. But winning Violet's heart is one thing; earning Sir Percy's trust is quite another.
A wonderful read--especially for fans of The Scarlet Pimpernel films. While Mr. Caldwell prefers Leslie Howard's 1934 foray into this character, I read this entire book imagining Anthony Andrews and Jane Seymour as we see them today as Sir Percy and Marguerite. And I couldn't help but envision Tom Mison (Ichabod Crane in the Sleepy Hollow television series) as Frederick. In fact, I feel a great need to re-watch both the 1982 Scarlet Pimpernel and at least the first season of Sleepy Hollow.
And yes, Mr. Caldwell, I will seek a copy of Leslie Howard's portrayal of Sir Percy as well.
April 19, 2023
In 2012 I had the pleasure of reading Jack Caldwell’s novel, The Three Colonels. Many characters from multiple works of Jane Austen were brought together in a singular delightful tale, one that was quite original and entertaining. Caldwell has now followed Colonels with another mash-up of sorts, The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel. Again, various Austen characters are used within the story (including the colonels from the previous work), but we also find creations from the mind of the writer Baroness Emma Orczy, namely the Scarlet Pimpernel himself, Sir Percy Blakeney. As a Janeite I was familiar with the backgrounds of many in The Last Adventure, but my knowledge of Orczy’s Scarlet Pimpernel was negligible to say the least. So this foppish, conniving and brave character is a new one for me, one that I have only begun to discover in this creation from the mind of Jack Caldwell.
In addition to getting to know the Scarlet Pimpernel better as a character, I also was given much time with an unlikely choice of protagonist for this tale, namely Frederick Tilney of Northanger Abbey fame. I’ve always thought of him as a bit of a flirt and playboy, in consideration of how he is known to treat women and his storyline in Austen’s novel. But in The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, we see quite a transformation in this man. Indeed, due to the love of a woman—true love, mind you—he works diligently to become worthy of her hand. When her safety is in jeopardy, it takes Captain Tilney in league with the Pimpnernel to come to her rescue. The Pimpernel is not as young or as nimble as he once was, so victory is not assured. He’s also aware of Tilney’s reputation, which becomes a problem as the Captain desires to court his daughter. Somehow Tilney must not only rescue his beloved, but he must win over her father’s good opinion as well.
So in The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, we have a bit of an adventure story, but we also have a bit of a romance. Although the titular character is the Pimpernel, this really was the Captain’s story. His journey is a long one, from a man of somewhat ill repute to possibly hero and man of honor. The novel has moments of excitement, intrigue, and of course a touch of romance. The villain was delectable in his own way, obsessed as he was with the ruination of his nemesis, the Pimpernel.
My negative thoughts on the novel are few. While not my favorite of Caldwell’s works (that would be Pemberley Ranch), it was a fun, enjoyable romp that is very family friendly. I wish that less time had been spent focusing on the history and politics of the period (the Hundred Days Crisis of 1815) and more pages spent building the relationship of Tilney and Violet Blakeney. In addition, there were moments when I had trouble keeping track of all of the characters, but Caldwell solves this problem with a listing of the cast at the opening of the book. I referenced it several times.
Once again, as in the previous work, I enjoyed seeing so many Austen characters interacting with each other. My two favorites, Mr. and Mrs. Darcy make more than one appearance, and we also spend some time with the former Caroline Bingley and her new husband, Sir John Buford. I also relished the story arc between Buford and Captain Tilney, as their relationship goes through an ebb and flow that I found compelling and interesting.
Overall I found The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel to be another unique moment of Austenesque fiction from author Jack Caldwell. Thus far he has not failed to disappoint in this genre, and I hope he continues this series of Jane Austen’s fighting men.
In addition to getting to know the Scarlet Pimpernel better as a character, I also was given much time with an unlikely choice of protagonist for this tale, namely Frederick Tilney of Northanger Abbey fame. I’ve always thought of him as a bit of a flirt and playboy, in consideration of how he is known to treat women and his storyline in Austen’s novel. But in The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, we see quite a transformation in this man. Indeed, due to the love of a woman—true love, mind you—he works diligently to become worthy of her hand. When her safety is in jeopardy, it takes Captain Tilney in league with the Pimpnernel to come to her rescue. The Pimpernel is not as young or as nimble as he once was, so victory is not assured. He’s also aware of Tilney’s reputation, which becomes a problem as the Captain desires to court his daughter. Somehow Tilney must not only rescue his beloved, but he must win over her father’s good opinion as well.
So in The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, we have a bit of an adventure story, but we also have a bit of a romance. Although the titular character is the Pimpernel, this really was the Captain’s story. His journey is a long one, from a man of somewhat ill repute to possibly hero and man of honor. The novel has moments of excitement, intrigue, and of course a touch of romance. The villain was delectable in his own way, obsessed as he was with the ruination of his nemesis, the Pimpernel.
My negative thoughts on the novel are few. While not my favorite of Caldwell’s works (that would be Pemberley Ranch), it was a fun, enjoyable romp that is very family friendly. I wish that less time had been spent focusing on the history and politics of the period (the Hundred Days Crisis of 1815) and more pages spent building the relationship of Tilney and Violet Blakeney. In addition, there were moments when I had trouble keeping track of all of the characters, but Caldwell solves this problem with a listing of the cast at the opening of the book. I referenced it several times.
Once again, as in the previous work, I enjoyed seeing so many Austen characters interacting with each other. My two favorites, Mr. and Mrs. Darcy make more than one appearance, and we also spend some time with the former Caroline Bingley and her new husband, Sir John Buford. I also relished the story arc between Buford and Captain Tilney, as their relationship goes through an ebb and flow that I found compelling and interesting.
Overall I found The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel to be another unique moment of Austenesque fiction from author Jack Caldwell. Thus far he has not failed to disappoint in this genre, and I hope he continues this series of Jane Austen’s fighting men.
Read
November 3, 2017Jack Caldwell’s latest novel, The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, is inspired by both The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emma Orczy and Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. It also is a companion novel to Caldwell’s The Three Colonels: Jane Austen’s Fighting Men, but it is a standalone novel. In fact, I’ve never read The Scarlet Pimpernel — just searched for a detailed summary online — and I had no trouble following the story.
The novel opens with a bang: Captain Frederick Tilney, the heir of Northanger Abbey, is challenged to a duel over Isabella Thorpe, and then his close friend, Colonel Sir John Buford, cut ties with him until he sees the error of his ways, takes responsibility for his shortcomings, and essentially grows up. Frederick is not a scoundrel like Wickham, but he needs to sever ties with some unsavory people of his acquaintance.
When he is reacquainted with Violet Blakeney, the sister of his longtime friend, George, Frederick realizes he wants to be a better man. However, he has a lot to live up to in the eyes of her father, Sir Percy Blakeney — the retired Scarlet Pimpernel — and Frederick’s fumbles and missteps raise Sir Percy’s ire. While Frederick works to earn Sir Percy’s favor and become worthy of his daughter, an M. Lafarge in Paris is scheming to put an end to the Scarlet Pimpernel once and for all. When Violet encounters trouble on a holiday to Paris, will Sir Percy accept Frederick’s help to save the woman they both love?
Caldwell does a great job mixing in characters from various Austen novels — the Darcys, the Tilneys, and Colonel Brandon, among others, all make an appearance — and it was exciting to read an Austen-inspired sequel that wasn’t about Pride and Prejudice for a change. I can’t comment on Caldwell’s interpretations of the characters from The Scarlet Pimpernel, but I found them thoroughly enjoyable — from Sir Percy’s wit and his passionate relationship with his wife to the strong bonds of the Blakeney family and Lady Marguerite’s refusal to stay quiet when her husband is being stubborn and foolish.
In The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, Caldwell seamlessly merges The Scarlet Pimpernel and Northanger Abbey into an exciting adventure novel led by an aging hero whose mind is as sharp as ever and a young man who is not inclined to sit idle. There’s plenty of action to balance out the more romantic aspects of the story, and if I had to find something I didn’t like, I would only say there are places in the story where the pace slows down just a bit, though that’s a minor quibble. Overall, I found The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel to be a delightful tale full of interesting characters, a heartwarming love story, some history, a dash of humor, and quite a bit of danger. I hope Caldwell revisits these characters again in the future.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
The novel opens with a bang: Captain Frederick Tilney, the heir of Northanger Abbey, is challenged to a duel over Isabella Thorpe, and then his close friend, Colonel Sir John Buford, cut ties with him until he sees the error of his ways, takes responsibility for his shortcomings, and essentially grows up. Frederick is not a scoundrel like Wickham, but he needs to sever ties with some unsavory people of his acquaintance.
When he is reacquainted with Violet Blakeney, the sister of his longtime friend, George, Frederick realizes he wants to be a better man. However, he has a lot to live up to in the eyes of her father, Sir Percy Blakeney — the retired Scarlet Pimpernel — and Frederick’s fumbles and missteps raise Sir Percy’s ire. While Frederick works to earn Sir Percy’s favor and become worthy of his daughter, an M. Lafarge in Paris is scheming to put an end to the Scarlet Pimpernel once and for all. When Violet encounters trouble on a holiday to Paris, will Sir Percy accept Frederick’s help to save the woman they both love?
Caldwell does a great job mixing in characters from various Austen novels — the Darcys, the Tilneys, and Colonel Brandon, among others, all make an appearance — and it was exciting to read an Austen-inspired sequel that wasn’t about Pride and Prejudice for a change. I can’t comment on Caldwell’s interpretations of the characters from The Scarlet Pimpernel, but I found them thoroughly enjoyable — from Sir Percy’s wit and his passionate relationship with his wife to the strong bonds of the Blakeney family and Lady Marguerite’s refusal to stay quiet when her husband is being stubborn and foolish.
In The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel, Caldwell seamlessly merges The Scarlet Pimpernel and Northanger Abbey into an exciting adventure novel led by an aging hero whose mind is as sharp as ever and a young man who is not inclined to sit idle. There’s plenty of action to balance out the more romantic aspects of the story, and if I had to find something I didn’t like, I would only say there are places in the story where the pace slows down just a bit, though that’s a minor quibble. Overall, I found The Last Adventure of the Scarlet Pimpernel to be a delightful tale full of interesting characters, a heartwarming love story, some history, a dash of humor, and quite a bit of danger. I hope Caldwell revisits these characters again in the future.
Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric
June 29, 2024
This was an enjoyable and fun read. I liked meeting new characters and seeing old ones that I love. Looking forward to the next novel.
April 19, 2024
Jack Caldwell can do what most modern writers can't--tell a story set in the Regency Period that actually sounds like it could have been written in said time period!
I am continuously drawn to Austen retellings or sequels, only to be disappointed time and again because the author gives her modern views to the characters, doesn't seem to understand or respect the historical context, and either doesn't try at all or tries too hard to sound authentic. Caldwell may be from Louisiana, but he "gets" British culture and history. What a nice change! I need to read more of his books to be sure, but it seems I can put his work up there with Georgette Heyer's when it comes to authenticity.
It was delightful to read about Sir Percy as an older man with children, especially because Caldwell seems to truly understand the character, including his way of speaking. I wouldn't have thought to combine Jane Austen's characters with Baroness Orczy's, but it works well in this author's capable hands. And Frederick Tilney isn't a person I would have expected to see a sequel written about, but I love what Caldwell does for him.
The story was always interesting, even if it was a bit slow in parts. But that's how old British novels often were, so the style fits right in! There was even a twist at the end that I really wasn't expecting that served to make the narrative all the more satisfying.
I loved the romance in this book (I'm such a sucker for it), including that between Percy and Marguerite, since they are one of my all time favorite couples to ship. However, I knocked off one star (okay, half a star) because Caldwell, most unfortunately, found it necessary to include two or three lines describing certain body parts and what happened to them during an otherwise beautiful kiss scene. Why?? It was jarring and annoying. Other than that, this is an awesome book!
I am continuously drawn to Austen retellings or sequels, only to be disappointed time and again because the author gives her modern views to the characters, doesn't seem to understand or respect the historical context, and either doesn't try at all or tries too hard to sound authentic. Caldwell may be from Louisiana, but he "gets" British culture and history. What a nice change! I need to read more of his books to be sure, but it seems I can put his work up there with Georgette Heyer's when it comes to authenticity.
It was delightful to read about Sir Percy as an older man with children, especially because Caldwell seems to truly understand the character, including his way of speaking. I wouldn't have thought to combine Jane Austen's characters with Baroness Orczy's, but it works well in this author's capable hands. And Frederick Tilney isn't a person I would have expected to see a sequel written about, but I love what Caldwell does for him.
The story was always interesting, even if it was a bit slow in parts. But that's how old British novels often were, so the style fits right in! There was even a twist at the end that I really wasn't expecting that served to make the narrative all the more satisfying.
I loved the romance in this book (I'm such a sucker for it), including that between Percy and Marguerite, since they are one of my all time favorite couples to ship. However, I knocked off one star (okay, half a star) because Caldwell, most unfortunately, found it necessary to include two or three lines describing certain body parts and what happened to them during an otherwise beautiful kiss scene. Why?? It was jarring and annoying. Other than that, this is an awesome book!
July 22, 2020
Captain Tilney comes under the spell of Miss Violet Blakeney and it change his life. Captain Tilney is a rake of the first order and is many people’s favorite character to dislike. But his whole life will unravel with the introduction to his best friends sister.
Captain Tilney remembers Violet as the younger, incorrigible sister of George. When last he saw her she was not yet a teenager and was rather just a child. But now she is order, out to society and a sight to behold.
Violet’s mother likes Captain Tilney, but her father is not impressed and doesn’t want his daughter to associate with him. As a point of fact he tells Tilney to bugger off.
But when Violet is taken prisoner by the French Captain Tileny’s life will take another dramatic turn. How can he save his love from danger when her father and The Crown will not let him go to France? He is undone as he is put on the back burner.
All of this while Napoleon escapes Elba and returns to France to take control again. War will rage with England and Violet is caught in the middle.
In this captivating romp through history we will watch Captain Tilney be transformed from rake to hero, from forgotten and left behind to the man of the hour.
Jack Caldwell loves to reinvent Jane Austen characters and rescue them from their wayward wandering and bring them to a saving place of good character, loyalty, honesty and, well, just basically good people whom others now love and want to be around.
Thank you Jack for another interesting story line.
Captain Tilney remembers Violet as the younger, incorrigible sister of George. When last he saw her she was not yet a teenager and was rather just a child. But now she is order, out to society and a sight to behold.
Violet’s mother likes Captain Tilney, but her father is not impressed and doesn’t want his daughter to associate with him. As a point of fact he tells Tilney to bugger off.
But when Violet is taken prisoner by the French Captain Tileny’s life will take another dramatic turn. How can he save his love from danger when her father and The Crown will not let him go to France? He is undone as he is put on the back burner.
All of this while Napoleon escapes Elba and returns to France to take control again. War will rage with England and Violet is caught in the middle.
In this captivating romp through history we will watch Captain Tilney be transformed from rake to hero, from forgotten and left behind to the man of the hour.
Jack Caldwell loves to reinvent Jane Austen characters and rescue them from their wayward wandering and bring them to a saving place of good character, loyalty, honesty and, well, just basically good people whom others now love and want to be around.
Thank you Jack for another interesting story line.
March 8, 2023
Wonderful
An exciting and swashbuckling tale starring Captain Frederick Tilney, the black sheep of the book Northanger Abbey. Captain Tilney has been living his life content to do as little as possible, and satisfied with accepting the help of his father in getting undeserved promotions and perks. However, one day his good friend Colonel Sir John Buford takes him to task about his hollow accomplishments, and Frederick decides that he must take charge of his life. Then he falls in love with Violet Blakeney, and she makes him want to be a better man. Violet happens to be the daughter of Sir Percy Blakeney, who is a close friend of the Prince Regent, and who also happens to be, secretly, the retired Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately, Tilney's reputation as a womanizer and wastrel makes his pursuit of Violet all that much more difficult, and he must prove to the Blakeney family that he's changed.
A Frenchman and former enemy of the Scarlet Pimpernel resurfaces, and kidnaps Violet in Paris. Sir Percy must rescue his daughter, and Captain Tilney is determined to help him. The story is full of intrigue, gallantry, sword fighting, and, of course, a lot of romance. The author charmingly incorporates many characters from Austen's other novels. Frederick Tilney is redeemed, and is given a chance to shine.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for a wonderfully bumpy and romantic ride.
An exciting and swashbuckling tale starring Captain Frederick Tilney, the black sheep of the book Northanger Abbey. Captain Tilney has been living his life content to do as little as possible, and satisfied with accepting the help of his father in getting undeserved promotions and perks. However, one day his good friend Colonel Sir John Buford takes him to task about his hollow accomplishments, and Frederick decides that he must take charge of his life. Then he falls in love with Violet Blakeney, and she makes him want to be a better man. Violet happens to be the daughter of Sir Percy Blakeney, who is a close friend of the Prince Regent, and who also happens to be, secretly, the retired Scarlet Pimpernel. Unfortunately, Tilney's reputation as a womanizer and wastrel makes his pursuit of Violet all that much more difficult, and he must prove to the Blakeney family that he's changed.
A Frenchman and former enemy of the Scarlet Pimpernel resurfaces, and kidnaps Violet in Paris. Sir Percy must rescue his daughter, and Captain Tilney is determined to help him. The story is full of intrigue, gallantry, sword fighting, and, of course, a lot of romance. The author charmingly incorporates many characters from Austen's other novels. Frederick Tilney is redeemed, and is given a chance to shine.
The book is well written and well edited. I recommend it highly for a wonderfully bumpy and romantic ride.
January 25, 2023
THE SCARLET PIMPERNEL IS BACK!
This book had all the elements of a successful plot! Adventure, drama, good vs evil, witty comebacks and romance. It is Northanger Abbey meets The Scarlet Pimpernel.
Jack Caldwell did it again, a masterful plot which brought back many beloved characters, many new or newer characters, into a world of the regency and just twenty years beyond the daring exploits of the Scarlet Pimpernel in France during le terror.
Many laughs, nervous cringing of hands and a few outbursts as the Pimpernel needs to step in to safe the day alongside of young Frederick Tilney, from the evil of the past, and to save the life of the love of Frederick Tilney’s life.
This book had all the elements of a successful plot! Adventure, drama, good vs evil, witty comebacks and romance. It is Northanger Abbey meets The Scarlet Pimpernel.
Jack Caldwell did it again, a masterful plot which brought back many beloved characters, many new or newer characters, into a world of the regency and just twenty years beyond the daring exploits of the Scarlet Pimpernel in France during le terror.
Many laughs, nervous cringing of hands and a few outbursts as the Pimpernel needs to step in to safe the day alongside of young Frederick Tilney, from the evil of the past, and to save the life of the love of Frederick Tilney’s life.
January 6, 2024
This was a gift two years ago from an acquaintance on Instagram. I haven't read the first in the series and it wasn't really necessary to enjoy this one. I'm currently reading Northanger Abbey to my daughter as well as listening to the Austen Therapy podcast episodes about Northanger Abbey, where Captain Tilney's poor behavior is discussed. So it was interesting to simultaneously read this story with Captain Tilney as the hero.
I have never read the Scarlet Pimpernel books but still enjoyed this crossover. It could have used a little more action but there was a lot of fun historical content that I enjoyed.
I have never read the Scarlet Pimpernel books but still enjoyed this crossover. It could have used a little more action but there was a lot of fun historical content that I enjoyed.
September 16, 2017
Captain Frederick Tilney, a rake and heir to Northanger Abbey has no wish to change. But when he meets Violet Blakeney, daughter of the Scarlet Pimpernel, and when his close friend Colonel Sir John Buford, tells him to take responsibility for his poor reputation, he wonders can he change.
When the Blakeney family is put in danger by a scheming French government official can Tilney redeem himself.
A very enjoyable romp, a mixture of action and romance with some interesting chracters.
When the Blakeney family is put in danger by a scheming French government official can Tilney redeem himself.
A very enjoyable romp, a mixture of action and romance with some interesting chracters.
did-not-finish
February 2, 2024Could not finish, not interested in the main characters.
June 12, 2016
Ooooh what an adventure that was! I could hardly put this down. It was a nice continuation of "The Scarlet Pimpernel" series, but the author blended in Jan Austen's worlds! So fun!
This story follows Captain Tilney and Miss Violet who happens to be the now old spy from the Pimpernel books. They find love, but he is an immature boy who Violets papa does not approve of after a stupid night. Sure I felt bad for Tilney, but I get Dad's side. Id have high standards if I had been a badass spy during the Reign of Terror. For sure.
The beginning had me hooked even though it took a bit for the drama and espionage to begin. Tilney was such an idiot. Gah. Sorry...I'll stop bringing it up.
There were some lulls, but oddly not all of them bugged me. Some of them were needed to understand what was going on in the world and to get to know the character. Some other lulls were a meh and I wanted things to speed up a tick.
I want more! Even if its the Pimpernel's last adventure...maybe Violet amd Tilney can continue the League. Ah fun!
Violet though had moments when I wanted to kick her. But I did like her but she wasn't the brightest at times. Lol. Same with Tilney....that's why they need each other. ;)
Now the ending was quick. Good but indeed quick.
In the end, I liked this book. It mixed two things together and it was done well. There were some important lulls and see not so important lulls. The characters were entertaining even though the two mains were certainly stupid - especially Tilney. But alas they are young and will grow. Hehe thus why another book would be funnnnnnnnn. Anyways.....I shall stamp this with 4 stars!
This story follows Captain Tilney and Miss Violet who happens to be the now old spy from the Pimpernel books. They find love, but he is an immature boy who Violets papa does not approve of after a stupid night. Sure I felt bad for Tilney, but I get Dad's side. Id have high standards if I had been a badass spy during the Reign of Terror. For sure.
The beginning had me hooked even though it took a bit for the drama and espionage to begin. Tilney was such an idiot. Gah. Sorry...I'll stop bringing it up.
There were some lulls, but oddly not all of them bugged me. Some of them were needed to understand what was going on in the world and to get to know the character. Some other lulls were a meh and I wanted things to speed up a tick.
I want more! Even if its the Pimpernel's last adventure...maybe Violet amd Tilney can continue the League. Ah fun!
Violet though had moments when I wanted to kick her. But I did like her but she wasn't the brightest at times. Lol. Same with Tilney....that's why they need each other. ;)
Now the ending was quick. Good but indeed quick.
In the end, I liked this book. It mixed two things together and it was done well. There were some important lulls and see not so important lulls. The characters were entertaining even though the two mains were certainly stupid - especially Tilney. But alas they are young and will grow. Hehe thus why another book would be funnnnnnnnn. Anyways.....I shall stamp this with 4 stars!
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