![]() His difficult years in Persia nearly made me cry. Erik's horrifying years with the chorody and his degrading life with the sideshow is sad and depressing. While I do have my disagreements about this story (such as Erik's drug addiction), overall this novel sweeps me off my feet. Her explanations of Erik's behavior are so remarkable that, I must say, I'm quite jealous. Kay did her research for this novel, on topics including but not limited to the brief summary of Erik's life (as defined by Leroux in the epilogue of his novel), 19th century Persian history, European gypsy culture, architecture, herbal medication, and hatred. ![]() It is told as a narration from the perspectives of several main characters, including none other than Erik himself. ![]() This beautiful re-telling of Leroux's original story chronicles Erik's entire life from cradle to grave. With some rare exceptions, she remains remarkably loyal to the plot outlined by Leroux while still maintaining an incredibly sympathetic, romantic portrayal of The Phantom. In most cases, however, she skillfully fills in the gaps that Leroux had left. It is definitely a must-have for Erik phans.īecause Kay was inspired to write this novel after watching the musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber - she was fortunate to witness the talented Michael Crawford himself play the role of The Phantom - it is understandable that the story of Erik's life as the famous Opera Ghost would drift from Leroux in some key areas. Because of this, I think it is worthwhile reading even for people who are not avid Phantom Phans. ![]() While Leroux's novel is primarily a mystery novel with elements of horror and romance, Kay's novel focuses on the elements of romantic tragedy. The effect suggested power, a cold and thrilling majesty it was as though I had stumbled upon one of the ancient gods of mythology. In stark contrast to the warm opulence of his surroundings, he was dressed from head to foot in black, and his face was entirely concealed behind a white mask. I wanted to know who he was, where he came from, and why he combined the manners of a young gentleman with all the instincts of an experienced street killer. He puzzled and worried me with his sad, wary dignity and his whiplash reaction to threat. Delacorte Press, Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Inc, 1991
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