The original story behind the famous musical is a haunting thriller with a romantic heart. In 1880s Paris, the Palais Garnier Opera House is haunted by the Phantom, a disfigured musical genius named Erik. He mentors young soprano Christine Daaé, whom he loves obsessively. Christine's childhood friend Raoul rekindles his affection for her, sparking Erik's jealousy. Erik demands Christine star in Faust and sabotages the opera when ignored, causing chaos. He abducts Christine to his lair, revealing his deformed face. Though horrified, she shows him compassion but Erik overhears Christine and Raoul plan to escape together, fueling his rage. During a performance, Erik abducts Christine again and threatens to destroy the opera house unless she marries him.
Raoul and the Persian, an opera house regular, attempt a rescue but are captured. Christine agrees to Erik's demands to save them. Touched by her kindness, Erik frees them all, confessing he has never known love. He makes Christine promise to return his ring after his death. Heartbroken, Erik dies soon after, and Christine fulfils his wish, burying him in secrecy. She and Raoul elope, leaving the dark events of the Opera house behind them. Little treasures, the FLAME TREE COLLECTABLE CLASSICS are chosen to create a delightful and timeless home library. Each stunning, gift edition features deluxe cover treatments, ribbon markers, luxury endpapers and gilded edges.
The unabridged text is accompanied by a Glossary of Victorian and Literary terms produced for the modern reader.