The Gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs

The Gods of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs is a landmark science-fiction adventure that continues the legendary saga of John Carter on the mysterious and war-scarred planet of Mars, also known as Barsoom. First published in 1913, this second installment of the Barsoom series expands the mythos with higher stakes, deeper mysteries, and breathtaking world-building. With action, romance, and danger at every turn, this free full audiobook is a masterpiece for fans of classic sci-fi and heroic fantasy.

🚀 About the Book

The Gods of Mars is the explosive sequel to A Princess of Mars, continuing the journey of the Earth-born warrior John Carter as he finds himself once more in the deadly and astonishing world of Barsoom. Edgar Rice Burroughs elevates the story with new alien races, dark secrets hidden beneath Mars’ surface, and revelations that reshape everything readers thought they knew about the planet’s mythology.

The novel dramatically increases the tension, introducing fan-favorite characters such as Thuvia and the sinister Holy Therns. Burroughs blends sword-and-planet action with imaginative science fiction, creating a universe where honor, loyalty, and destiny collide in spectacular fashion.

📘 Plot Summary

The story begins with John Carter mysteriously transported back to Mars after ten long years of separation from his beloved Dejah Thoris. He materializes inside the terrifying Valley Dor, a place believed by Martians to be a paradise—but instead hides a soul-devouring truth. The valley is controlled by the Therns, a manipulative priesthood who exploit pilgrims for their own survival.

After fierce battles and daring escapes, Carter allies with Tars Tarkas, his loyal Green Martian friend. Together, they uncover a deeper horror: the ancient religion of Barsoom is built on lies. The goddess Issus, worshipped for millennia, is in fact a tyrannical being feeding off the suffering of innocent victims.

Determined to free Mars from this cycle of brutality, John Carter leads revolts, rescues slaves, and challenges Issus herself—yet personal tragedy looms. Dejah Thoris, Thuvia, and Phaidor become trapped in a timed prison chamber, setting the stage for a cliffhanger ending that continues in the next novel.

👥 Main Characters

John Carter – The fearless Earth hero who fights with honor and unmatched determination.
Tars Tarkas – The mighty Green Martian chieftain whose loyalty and strength make him a powerful ally.
Dejah Thoris – The Princess of Helium and Carter’s beloved, whose courage inspires the entire saga.
Thuvia – A brave and resourceful maiden important to the plot’s major revelations.
The Therns – A sinister religious order maintaining a brutal system of deception.
Issus – The false goddess whose cruelty drives Mars into chaos.

📚 Themes & World-Building

Religious deception and power: Burroughs explores how belief systems can be used to manipulate entire civilizations.

Heroism and sacrifice: John Carter’s unwavering commitment to justice defines the core of the novel.

Alien cultures and epic landscapes: From the forbidden Valley Dor to the towering cities of Helium, the world-building is expansive and cinematic.

Love, honor, and destiny: Emotional stakes run high as Carter fights for both Mars and the woman he loves.

If you enjoy vast worlds and grand adventure, you may also love The Iliad or Frankenstein, two classics known for their larger-than-life storytelling.

🎧 Why Listen to This Audiobook?

Cinematic narration brings battles, alien cities, and emotional moments to life.
Perfect for sci-fi fans who enjoy heroic fantasy, space adventure, and classic literature.
Beginner-friendly for listeners discovering the Barsoom series.
A legendary classic that shaped modern science fiction from Star Wars to Flash Gordon.

▶️ Listen Now – The Gods of Mars Audiobook

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Embark on a journey across Barsoom and experience one of the greatest sci-fi epics of all time!