If you thought Tarzan's story ended with him finding Jane and settling down, think again. 'The Return of Tarzan' picks up right where the first book left off, but sends our hero on a journey that's twice as unpredictable.

The Story

Tarzan, having given up his title and inheritance for Jane, heads to Europe. He's trying to be a gentleman, but he's a fish out of water in Paris. After a nasty falling out with Jane's snobby cousin, he finds himself mixed up with a shady count and a secret society called the 'Apes of Paris' (yes, really). This leads him to a job as a secret agent in Algeria. From there, a shipwreck sends him back to the one place he thought he'd left behind: the African jungle. But it's not a simple homecoming. He finds a lost city, becomes its king, and faces old enemies and new dangers, all while the memory of Jane pulls him back toward the world he left.

Why You Should Read It

This book is where Burroughs really lets Tarzan shine. We see him struggle with his identity in a way that's surprisingly deep for a pulp adventure. Is he Lord Greystoke or the King of the Apes? The scenes of him navigating high society are both funny and sharp, showing how hollow that world can be. The action, when it shifts back to Africa, is non-stop. Burroughs' imagination runs wild with hidden cities and epic battles. What I love most is that Tarzan's greatest strength isn't just his muscles—it's his code of honor, forged in the jungle, that makes him stand out in any world.

Final Verdict

This is the perfect read for anyone who loves classic adventure with a heart. If you enjoyed the first book, this sequel expands the world in brilliant ways. It's also great for fans of old-school action and anyone who likes a hero who is genuinely good in a complicated world. It moves at a breakneck pace, so if you're looking for a fun, thrilling escape that's a step above simple jungle tales, grab this one. You'll be rooting for the Ape-Man all over again.