A review by cpcabaniss
The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy

4.0

"The sound of the distant breakers made her heart ache with melancholy. She was in the mood when the sea has a saddening effect upon the nerves. It is only when we are very happy, that we can bear to gaze merrily upon the vast and limitless expanse of the water, rolling on and on with such persistent, irritating monotony, to the accompaniment of our thoughts, whether grave or gay. When they are gay, the waves echo their gaity; but when they are sad, then every breaker, as it rolls, seems to bring additional sadness, and to speak to us of hopelessness and the pettiness of all our joys."

Friends have been telling me for years that I should read The Scarlet Pimpernel, that it is clever and funny and adventurous. They were right. I read the first chapter years ago, but then put it aside for some reason. After a few new mentions of it by friends, I picked it up this year and had such a good time reading it.

If you want a classic that is funny and quick reading, give this one a try.