Edgar Rice Burroughs' The Warlord of Mars is the third book in the Barsoom series, and it hits the ground running. We're thrown right back into the cliffhanger from the previous book.

The Story

John Carter's beloved wife, the Princess Dejah Thoris, is trapped inside the mysterious Temple of the Sun. The problem? The temple only unlocks its doors once a year. Carter watches helplessly as she's held by the evil Therns, a fanatical religious cult. When the temple finally opens, Dejah Thoris is gone—kidnapped again and taken to the even more remote and terrifying land of the Black Pirates of Barsoom. What follows is a frantic chase across the unknown southern hemisphere of Mars. Carter battles monstrous apts, navigates deadly seas, and infiltrates the strongholds of savage new cultures, all while the clock is ticking. His journey reveals shocking secrets about the history and religions of Barsoom itself.

Why You Should Read It

This book is where John Carter truly earns his title. It's less about him discovering Mars and more about him fighting to protect it and everything he loves. The drive is incredibly personal. You feel every second of his year-long wait and his burning desperation. Burroughs' imagination for alien landscapes and creatures is in top form here—the world keeps expanding in wild ways. It's also a fascinating look at a hero who is relentless but not invincible; he gets hurt, he gets tricked, but he never, ever gives up. The pace is breakneck, making it almost impossible to put down once the chase begins.

Final Verdict

This is perfect for anyone who loves foundational science fiction and fantasy adventure. If you enjoy the spirit of Indiana Jones or Star Wars—stories with clear heroes, vile villains, and exotic worlds—you'll see where a lot of that DNA comes from. It's a direct continuation, so you should read the first two books (A Princess of Mars and The Gods of Mars) first. But if you're already on this journey with John Carter, The Warlord of Mars is a thrilling and satisfying ride that deepens the saga.