D’Artagnan receives word that his father has died and determines he must return home to Gascony to take his place as the head of his family.  He is saddened to leave his new life in Paris and his new compadres Athos, Porthos and Aramis.  Still, he knows what honor dictates, so with his servant Planchet, makes plans to slip out of the city without a word, leaving only a note for his friends.  

Planchet quickly realizes D’Artagnan means not to return to Paris and alerts Athos.  Athos agrees D’Artagnan cannot return permanently to Gascony and tells Planchet he and the other Muskateers will be behind D’Artagnan as soon as possible.  And a good thing, too, as D’Artagnan is attacked on the trail by a band of men interested not in the valuables Henri may be carrying, but in his life. 

Surprises, both about his father’s death and about his life and the legacy he left his family, await D’Artagnan at home, making him wonder where his rightful place is, in Gascony with his family or in Paris with the Guards, if he is still entitled to such an honor.  Most importantly, D’Artagnan realizes his father’s death could not have been a duel gone wrong and must avenge him before he can return to any life of his own.  

A well-crafted mystery, A Death in Gascony is well researched and steeped in the lore Dumas created surrounding The Three Musketeers, and with some original additions, melded easily into an intriguing story.  True to their legacy, the Muskateers are honorable to a fault, each with his unique trait, from the most loyal, Pathos, the noblest Athos, the slyest Aramis, despite his difficulty with language, and the ever ready, eager D’Artagnan. 

The mystery plays out bit by bit, surprising even D’Artagnan as it unfolds.  True history buffs will appreciate the detail, but more casual readers with no more than a basic understanding of Musketeer lore may feel a bit out of their element.  

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry