When the dashing young D'Artagnon arrives in Paris from Gascony, he becomes embroiled in three duels with the Three Musketeers: Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. But when he proves himself by fighting not against, but with, the Three Musketeers, they form a quick and lasting friendship. The daring escapades of the four pit them against a master of intrigue, Cardinal Richelieu, and the quintessential wicked woman, Lady de Winter.
(P)2007 Blackstone Audio Inc.
"His plots are...rich in characters and adventures." (Biographical Dictionary of Literary Influences)
"Goodish book"
Well read, entertaining book, but not as good as I had hoped for. The plot is quite linear and the Three Musketeers are all two-dimensional fops who instantly bow to the newcomer D'Artagnan superior intellect and swordplay. I always thought this story would be about their tutoring him to becoming their equal, Fourth Musketeer, but alas he immediately outshines them in everything! They border on idiots who have been waiting for a teenage leader.
The most interesting and clever character is 'Her Ladyship' whose scheming and political machinations, as a woman, make her especially reviled for the time. This results in her particularly unpleasant downfall. Whenever two men fell out, it inevitably led to them prancing around each other, swords drawn, until one of them manages to flesh-wound the other, then the victor hugs the defeated man and they become best friends. But if a woman crosses you... I'll let you read the book! I should not judge an old story by todays standards.