Paul Mahalin’s La filleule de Lagardère (Lagardère’s Goddaughter) is the first part of a classic French serial adventure. It picks up the story of Henri de Lagardère, the master swordsman and hero of the earlier Le Bossu (The Hunchback).

The Story

Years after his famous adventures, Lagardère is living a quieter life when duty calls again. He becomes the protector of a young woman, his goddaughter, who is in grave danger. We don’t know all her secrets yet, but it’s clear a shadowy, influential enemy from the past is determined to see her harmed. The book follows Lagardère as he uses his wits, his sword, and his network of allies in the bustling underworld and glittering salons of Paris to keep her safe, all while unraveling the first threads of a much larger conspiracy.

Why You Should Read It

This isn’t a stuffy period piece. Mahalin wrote for the newspapers of his day, and it shows. The chapters are short and punchy, each ending with a little cliffhanger that makes you want to read ‘just one more.’ Lagardère is a fantastic hero—clever, honorable, and believably human. The setting feels alive, from smoky taverns to grand ballrooms. You’re right there in the adventure.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves a good, old-fashioned adventure with a heart. If you enjoy the camaraderie of The Three Musketeers, the secret-identity drama of The Scarlet Pimpernel, or just a story where a good guy stands up against sneaky villains, you’ll have a blast with this. It’s pure, fun storytelling that reminds you why these classics have lasted so long.