Twenty Years After by Alexandre Dumas

Rishabh | Manalapan High School, Grade 10

Rating: *****

Twenty Years After by Alexandre Dumas is the sequel to The Three Musketeers. Though it is less popular, it is just as good as it's predecessor, which you should read first to avoid any spoilers. It starts with D'Artagnan, who has become a soldier for a cardinal named Marazin. D'Artagnan tries to find his friends again, all of whom have changed significantly in the past two decades. They have different careers and have moved on since their lives as musketeers. They also differ in to whom they give their loyalty, having opposing opinions about rulers throughout Europe. However, they decide to work together to go on many adventures throughout Europe, being heavily involved in the political turmoil for which 1600's Europe is known. The adventures include revenge, treachery, and tyranny and are extremely exciting.

This book is a great sequel to the Three Musketeers. It has great complexity, showing how men of differing opinions still remain friends and work together, something that is always relevant, especially now. Though these characters are around 400 years old, there are many relatable moments, since the overall themes presented throughout the novel are still present in modern society. It is also action packed and adventure filled, and I highly recommend it to all readers.