4.25 stars
Beautiful art brings the classic tale of revenge to life. The story felt a bit condensed, but this was a compelling page turner.
Full review
I took one look at the cover of Ena Moriyama’s manga adaptation of The Count of Monte Cristo and was immediately entranced by the pretty art. I wondered if the interior art was as lovely, so I cleared a block of time on Saturday to read this version of Alexandre Dumas’ classic tale of betrayal and revenge. I really enjoyed this book!
When jealous rivals frame Edmond Dantes on his wedding day, he is imprisoned in Chateau d’If, an island fortress that no one has ever escaped from. Despite his innocence, he is imprisoned for years, and only the thought that his beloved Mercedes is waiting for his release keeps him going. After six years of solitary confinement, he decides to commit suicide by refusing to eat. It’s when he’s at his very weakest, emotionally and physically, that he meets Faria, another political prisoner.
As their friendship blossoms, Faria teaches Edmond all that he knows so that, should Edmond ever leave the prison, he will be prepared to take on his rivals. With Faria’s keen assistance, Edmond pieces together the puzzle of his imprisonment, and learns the identity of his betrayers. When he does, miraculously, escape his confinement, he is ready to roll. Faria left him a treasure map to make him an impossibly wealthy man, and his years of captivity have honed his need for revenge. And oh how sweet his vengeance will be.
I have never read The Count of Monte Cristo prior to picking up this manga. I’ve seen movies based on the book, but the plot details have grown hazy over the years. This was a compelling retelling, and I couldn’t put it down. With every victory against his rivals, Edmond faces unseen setbacks in his quest for revenge. After 24 years, all of his hated conspirators have families, and his actions damning his false accusers have rippling consequences for innocent people. It’s Edmond’s painful realization that the innocent should never suffer with the guilty that defines this story. At times Edmond is as heartless and evil as his enemies, and his regret at causing harm to innocents saves him from becoming a complete monster.
The art is gorgeous. Flat out beautiful and a wonderful treat, page after page. I loved the character designs, especially handsome, brooding Edmond, and exotic Haydee. Her wardrobe alone was worth the price of admission. If I have any quibbles, it’s that the story did feel too condensed at times. Otherwise, there aren’t many better ways to spend a weekend afternoon than reading through The Count of Monte Cristo.