The Phantom of the Opera

 

Oh, POTO. My favorite classic book so far (probably ever). 

Everyone knows about POTO, everyone has heard Andrew Lloyd Webber's amazing score and musical. 

However, the original POTO story is not as we know! The Angel of Music is definitely very different from Gerald Butler's portrayal in the POTO movie. He is not super hot and romantic. He is actually quite a lunatic and definitely off his rocker. That's why many cannot understand why the are so many phan-girls (myself included hehe). Because the original and actual Opera ghost is a crazy guy with actual horrible looks that definitely screams out horror. 

Yet, Gaston Leroux's novel is amazing even without the romance and seductiveness that we come to associate to our favorite phantom. Erik is actually a very complex character and there are many, many details that are left out in the Hollywood versions. 

Gaston does an incredible job in reeling in the reader, the POTO story is one with many enigmas and twists/turns. You can't help but wonder if it even is the same story. The story is captivating and with so many crazy action scenes that it really does feel like it is a totally new idea. 

Nevertheless, the story is not short of a classic. And recommended for anyone who loves the musical/movie. You'll definitely see it in new light after reading this original story!

Bonus points for reading the novel while listening to the POTO soundtrack!