A review by acciohannah
The Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux

dark emotional mysterious tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

3.75 stars

Another “Christmas prep” book, again not Christmas themed, but I will be visiting Paris and the Palais Garnier while on my holiday in Europe. 

This book surprised me. As an avid fan of the musical/films, it fascinated me that this story is posed more as a mystery, and is far more convoluted and still distinct than the other adaptations. 

This is a story not meant to be romanticized. The villain here is so much more complex than I’ve ever seen him betrayed, and he requires both pity and disgust in equal measure. His actions aren’t meant to be forgiven, he is violent and cruel. Erik is twisted and truly evil, and thank god, the heroine here does not fall for his act, this I found to be refreshing among so many “dark romance” stories. 

I also find it interesting that this is truly the monster’s story, not Christine’s, and Christine is relatively strong in her own right which again is a surprise. 

Though I felt it had pacing issues and was a bit lengthy, I really enjoyed this one.