PHANTOM

Rating:
Summary: Nothing even close to Leroux's vision for the story
Review: Yuck! what a perverted and twisted version of a really innocent love story! I read the book, hoping to find the same tones and ideas envisioned by Gaston Leroux, since Kay says she has read the original novel nonstop time and time again. Well, obviously she missed something! There is nothing sexual about Leroux's POTO! And all the relationships in Kay's book are screwed up and make absolutely no sense. Please, if you are looking for a companion book, maybe another version of Leroux's story (which is wonderful), you won't find it here. The plots and ideas and the feelings of the characters are so far-fetched, and basically very out of character, I wonder if Susan Kay has ever actaully read Leroux's novel, becuase this story is not based on that book at all and apperantly came from the depths of some twisted and perverted mind.

Rating:
Summary: Something, perhaps, a little different
Review: When I first read this book several years ago (at the beginning of my Phantom-related obsession), I was completely overtaken by the feeling that this book was perfect (almost - I'll talk about that later). Now, with several years behind me, that first rush finished, and a bit more objective in all of my seventeen years, I must say that nothing is perfect. Even at the beginning, I would have given this advice - quit reading when you reach the meeting-point of Erik and Christine, or at the least do not read Raoul's narrative. They are, to my eye, not always so full as the others, but I am perhaps too set on Leroux's novel to allow enjoyment of the retelling. (I do enjoy good fanfic, though, so that likely does not explain my slight dislike of these chapters.) They each have their moments, but overall and by far the most compelling story is Erik's. Nothing will be able to replace the vivid power of the words and images there. No, they are not perfect, but for anyone wishing to add to his or her perception of Erik, the Phantom, I would recommend this book, as long as one keeps an open mind.

Rating:
Summary: Veiws of a highschooler..
Review: Overall, I thought this book was incredible. At times it was hard for me to understand what was going on, but Susan Kay did an excellent job with this book. I would recomend this book to anyone who likes to read. It's totally incredible and the outcome made me cry..

Rating:
Summary: The Best Phantom Book Ever!
Review: When I first read Gaston Leroux's book the Phantom of the Opera, I liked it but was left with many questions after,even watching Andrew Lloyd Webbers version was spellbinding but still a little lacking in answers. Not so with PHANTOM. I read Susan Kays version so many years ago and I still remember exactly how I felt the first time I read it. Enthralled, captivated, fascinated. moved....no words can even come close. She is such a magnificent writer. Reading this you actually get to live inside Eriks head and understand what drove him to do the things he did. And then as an added bonus you also get to live in Christines head and finally....you know why she was so drawn to Erik and what compelled her to return again and again to the Labyrinth. The perfect ending to the Phantom's story, by far the best ever. It is as it always should have been. Can't wait for them to do a movie, wishful thinking right?

Rating:
Summary: Outstanding
Review: I first bought this book on a whim at my local supermarket. As a huge fan of Phantom of the Opera, the books synopsis intrigued me. I wasn't disappointed. This book was incredible. The characters are so well written, that you feel like you actually know them. I just bought a new copy yesterday, because I read my old one until the cover fell off. Susan Kay is a wonderful writer. She makes you really feel the emotions of the characters. Her portrayal of Erik is at times both heartwrenching and chilling. This book is a must read, even if you've never heard of the phantom of the opera. Go out and buy it, you won't regret it.

Rating:
Summary: Truly amazing...
Review: This is the exact supplement to the Leroux that Phantom phans were looking for. When I first heard about this book, years ago, I was incredibly skeptical. Needless to say, within the first few pages I was hooked and read it all within one day. The characters are all so real...They're emotions reach out and touch you. And Erik, the mysterious Phantom of the Opera, is suddenly so very human. Susan Kay is a marvelous writer, adding great depth to each of her characters. It is quite obvious that she loves Erik, for she tells his story as none other could have. Don't hesitate to buy this book! You won't be disappointed.

Rating:
Summary: A super read!
Review: Susan Kay starts her book with Erik's birth and takes it through to his death. It's a dark story and made you feel for the young Erik. The older Erik was so much the Michael Crawford version from Phantom I found myself rooting for him to win Christine as much as I did when I saw the show! Susan Kay gave the story a beautiful ending that Erik himself would have loved!

Rating:
Summary: Quick and excellent read
Review: This has to be one of the best books I have read in a really long time. It gives a brillant depth to the phantom's life. Though I felt that the portrayal of Christine's character made her too "weak" (I always thought she should be strong), the rest of the book more than makes up for this one small shortcoming. I called out of work to finish reading this book! I recommend it to any fan of Phantom of the Opera. I can't stop talking about it.

Rating:
Summary: All I have to say is "Wow"...
Review: I am a huge fan of all things realted to the story of the Phantom of the Opera. I have read the original story many times, and a few other versions as well. This is far and away the best addition to the original. Awesome, emotionally packed, and just so good! I encourage anyone who is interested in the story of the Phantom to read this book.

Rating:
Summary: The search is over..
Review: I read this book 8 years ago and fell totally in love with the characters and the style of writing. After loaning it to a friend, I moved and lost it. I've been searching for a copy of this book for a couple of years now. It's amazing, I've never forgotten the story. I still remember vivid details of Erik and Christine's relationship. I'm so glad I've finally found another copy. You will never read another book like it.