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Phantom Rising #1
For Love of the Phantom
Join the Phantom, Christine and Raoul in this unabashedly romantic sequel to one of the best loved stories of all times!
This sequel to Gaston Leroux's Phantom of the Opera begins just after Christine and Raoul leave the Phantom in his lair in the basement of the Opera House. After faking his own death to escape the authorities, the Phantom sets out to find Christine again, eventually following her and Raoul to London. When a crazed maniac begins his killing spree not far from Christine's home, her life may be in danger... In the ultimate test, will the Phantom put his life and his freedom at risk for his love?
And will Christine -- desperate for song (which her husband, Raoul, has forbidden in his jealousy) -- finally open her heart to the Phantom, as he desires?
This sequel to Gaston Leroux's Phantom of the Opera begins just after Christine and Raoul leave the Phantom in his lair in the basement of the Opera House. After faking his own death to escape the authorities, the Phantom sets out to find Christine again, eventually following her and Raoul to London. When a crazed maniac begins his killing spree not far from Christine's home, her life may be in danger... In the ultimate test, will the Phantom put his life and his freedom at risk for his love?
And will Christine -- desperate for song (which her husband, Raoul, has forbidden in his jealousy) -- finally open her heart to the Phantom, as he desires?
368 pages, Paperback
First published December 7, 2015
146 people are currently reading
2128 people want to read
About the author
Davyne DeSye
13 books127 followersDavyne is the author of Through the Eyes of the Opera Ghost, a retelling of the Phantom of the Opera from the Phantom's point of view, as well as the Phantom Rising Series – a trio of historical romances which continue the saga of the Phantom of the Opera. She has also authored the Aggressor Queen Series – a duo of alien invasion science fiction novels. She has also written a sweet paranormal ghost romance, Love Whispers Through the Veil, and an anthology of speculative fiction short stories, Soap Bubble Dreams and Other Distortions.
Davyne’s writing focuses on strong characterization, a sense of adventure, and emotional impact, reflecting her own passionate view on life. She draws from positive experiences in her life (going on safari, being in a television commercial, becoming a lifeguard) and more painful ones (being kidnapped as a child at knife-point [promptly rescued by Dad!], breaking her arms falling 60 feet off a cliff, breaking her neck at the senior prom) to realistically craft her characters, both good and evil.
Davyne grew up traveling the world with her diplomat parents, and has lived in Germany, Bolivia, Somalia, Afghanistan, Japan, and Korea. After several academic (including computer programming and fine art photography!) and career choices, she finally settled into the law and was an attorney for over twenty years, although writing has always been her first true love.
The list of things she loves is long and includes her family (she survived having five teenagers at one time!), Christmas, cooking, laughing, being an introvert (despite her propensity to arm-waving when excited about a topic), intriguing mouths, sneezing and – of course – reading. Her list of dislikes is relatively small: bigots, hypocrites and mean people. Oh, and lima beans.
She lives with her husband in their Colorado home and in Mexico.
Want to know more?
Interview With Author Davyne DeSye
Authors Talk: A Discussion with Davyne DeSye
Stay connected with Davyne by signing up for her email list. You'll receive a FREE short story just for signing up as well as exclusive updates on giveaways, new releases, cover reveals, sneak peeks, etc. HERE.
Visit Davyne at:
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Watch her book trailers:
Phantom Rising Series:
#1 - For Love of the Phantom
#2 - Skeletons in the Closet
#3 – Phantom Rising
Love Whispers Through the Veil
Carapace
Soap Bubble Dreams and Other Distortions
Davyne’s writing focuses on strong characterization, a sense of adventure, and emotional impact, reflecting her own passionate view on life. She draws from positive experiences in her life (going on safari, being in a television commercial, becoming a lifeguard) and more painful ones (being kidnapped as a child at knife-point [promptly rescued by Dad!], breaking her arms falling 60 feet off a cliff, breaking her neck at the senior prom) to realistically craft her characters, both good and evil.
Davyne grew up traveling the world with her diplomat parents, and has lived in Germany, Bolivia, Somalia, Afghanistan, Japan, and Korea. After several academic (including computer programming and fine art photography!) and career choices, she finally settled into the law and was an attorney for over twenty years, although writing has always been her first true love.
The list of things she loves is long and includes her family (she survived having five teenagers at one time!), Christmas, cooking, laughing, being an introvert (despite her propensity to arm-waving when excited about a topic), intriguing mouths, sneezing and – of course – reading. Her list of dislikes is relatively small: bigots, hypocrites and mean people. Oh, and lima beans.
She lives with her husband in their Colorado home and in Mexico.
Want to know more?
Interview With Author Davyne DeSye
Authors Talk: A Discussion with Davyne DeSye
Stay connected with Davyne by signing up for her email list. You'll receive a FREE short story just for signing up as well as exclusive updates on giveaways, new releases, cover reveals, sneak peeks, etc. HERE.
Visit Davyne at:
Her Webpage
BookBub
YouTube
Watch her book trailers:
Phantom Rising Series:
#1 - For Love of the Phantom
#2 - Skeletons in the Closet
#3 – Phantom Rising
Love Whispers Through the Veil
Carapace
Soap Bubble Dreams and Other Distortions
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
November 5, 2017
"Spent, weak, beyond exhaustion, he crooned gently swelling songs of his love. Finally, he slept amidst the debris upon the bed that still smelled so wonderfully of his Christine."
Sweeping and romantic yet never cloy, and alive with rich and vibrant trappings, For Love of the Phantom is a marvelous read that jumps off the page and into the soul of the reader. Continuing the famous story of Christine and Erik, it seems fresh and new in the hands of this versatile writer. Davyne DeSye’s terrific tale about an alien occupation of Earth, Carapace, was fabulous, both in its storytelling and in language and phrasing. It flowed and moved, kept the reader involved, and she does the same in this continuation of Phantom. Too many modern writers do not understand what “movement” within a narrative means, but DeSye obviously does, and accomplishes it with aplomb. One would not think a story with such a rich and romantic premise could be this exciting, this alive with movement, and yet in this author’s hands it is.
There is no dawdling here, as the reader is immediately swept up in the aftermath of the story they know so well — certainly better than moi, as I only have a passing familiarity with the basic story-line, based more on the old film and the Webber play than the original work. As Erik mourns the loss of his beloved Christine due to his deformity and circumstances, Christine embarks on the waters of love with Raoul. But we quickly see cracks in their marriage, the most startling of which is the possibility that Christine is suppressing her true feelings:
“As she moved from the candlelight of the church into the sapphire and amethyst sky of early evening, she was struck by the fact that her thoughts of Erik were not colored by fear or horror, but by melancholy with the hue and sensitivity of a bruise.”
While Erik has sacrificed his great love, he cannot bear life without her, and puts in place a plan to be near her. This proves no easy task. Erik must use both stealth and finances to make the journey, and to create the illusions he must put in place. The reader senses his tortured soul softening on the long journey. He even makes a friend aboard ship, becoming “Lucky” in name; and he hopes, in his heart. Meanwhile in Korsnäsborg, Christine is discovering Raoul’s true character, greedy for a male heir so he can be well set financially. As she gets the lay of the emotional landscape of their marriage, she has many revelations:
“Christine found these small physical endearments enchanted her less of late, seeming merely a practiced language in which Raoul was fluent but perhaps less than sincere.”
Though Raoul treats Christine well, she discovers all may not be as it seems:
“The remainder of the walk was made in silence, Christine inexplicably feeling that some small part of her had been crushed between boot and gravel.”
It is to the author’s credit that she does not attempt to impose modern mores (though one could argue they are non-existent in our day) and expectations into this time period. Christine’s initial reaction of disappointment and finally acceptance of Raoul’s indiscretions is perfectly appropriate for this time period between the sexes and classes. In Christine’s unhappiness she finds brief moments of pleasure with the gardener, who is of course, no gardener at all, but the one who worships her. It is in the garden she can sing — a pleasure she has been denied by Raoul — but it is her quiet revelation in the darkness of her bed that makes Erik’s heart sing. But can it be so, and if so, can there be a way?
Once the reader gets what they ache for, one intrigue after another is added to the narrative, making for great excitement, even danger. One must not forget about the Persian, nor must they forget the time period, because this romantically sweeping story has mystery and some thrilling moments involving the Whitechapel murders! But there are more surprises to come for the reader. However, none will equal Christine’s surprise when all seems hopeless in this brilliantly conceived and magnificently executed continuation of the famous Phantom story. The characters are real, the romantic flourishes lush, the danger and excitement at times absolutely gripping.
This is an extraordinary book that will not disappoint any fan of the original work, nor will it disappoint anyone who likes intrigue and danger, and great storytelling in their reads. Davyne DeSye’s For Love of the Phantom is a marvelous example of what can be done with a lush and romantic story when it’s placed into the right hands. Wonderful!
Sweeping and romantic yet never cloy, and alive with rich and vibrant trappings, For Love of the Phantom is a marvelous read that jumps off the page and into the soul of the reader. Continuing the famous story of Christine and Erik, it seems fresh and new in the hands of this versatile writer. Davyne DeSye’s terrific tale about an alien occupation of Earth, Carapace, was fabulous, both in its storytelling and in language and phrasing. It flowed and moved, kept the reader involved, and she does the same in this continuation of Phantom. Too many modern writers do not understand what “movement” within a narrative means, but DeSye obviously does, and accomplishes it with aplomb. One would not think a story with such a rich and romantic premise could be this exciting, this alive with movement, and yet in this author’s hands it is.
There is no dawdling here, as the reader is immediately swept up in the aftermath of the story they know so well — certainly better than moi, as I only have a passing familiarity with the basic story-line, based more on the old film and the Webber play than the original work. As Erik mourns the loss of his beloved Christine due to his deformity and circumstances, Christine embarks on the waters of love with Raoul. But we quickly see cracks in their marriage, the most startling of which is the possibility that Christine is suppressing her true feelings:
“As she moved from the candlelight of the church into the sapphire and amethyst sky of early evening, she was struck by the fact that her thoughts of Erik were not colored by fear or horror, but by melancholy with the hue and sensitivity of a bruise.”
While Erik has sacrificed his great love, he cannot bear life without her, and puts in place a plan to be near her. This proves no easy task. Erik must use both stealth and finances to make the journey, and to create the illusions he must put in place. The reader senses his tortured soul softening on the long journey. He even makes a friend aboard ship, becoming “Lucky” in name; and he hopes, in his heart. Meanwhile in Korsnäsborg, Christine is discovering Raoul’s true character, greedy for a male heir so he can be well set financially. As she gets the lay of the emotional landscape of their marriage, she has many revelations:
“Christine found these small physical endearments enchanted her less of late, seeming merely a practiced language in which Raoul was fluent but perhaps less than sincere.”
Though Raoul treats Christine well, she discovers all may not be as it seems:
“The remainder of the walk was made in silence, Christine inexplicably feeling that some small part of her had been crushed between boot and gravel.”
It is to the author’s credit that she does not attempt to impose modern mores (though one could argue they are non-existent in our day) and expectations into this time period. Christine’s initial reaction of disappointment and finally acceptance of Raoul’s indiscretions is perfectly appropriate for this time period between the sexes and classes. In Christine’s unhappiness she finds brief moments of pleasure with the gardener, who is of course, no gardener at all, but the one who worships her. It is in the garden she can sing — a pleasure she has been denied by Raoul — but it is her quiet revelation in the darkness of her bed that makes Erik’s heart sing. But can it be so, and if so, can there be a way?
Once the reader gets what they ache for, one intrigue after another is added to the narrative, making for great excitement, even danger. One must not forget about the Persian, nor must they forget the time period, because this romantically sweeping story has mystery and some thrilling moments involving the Whitechapel murders! But there are more surprises to come for the reader. However, none will equal Christine’s surprise when all seems hopeless in this brilliantly conceived and magnificently executed continuation of the famous Phantom story. The characters are real, the romantic flourishes lush, the danger and excitement at times absolutely gripping.
This is an extraordinary book that will not disappoint any fan of the original work, nor will it disappoint anyone who likes intrigue and danger, and great storytelling in their reads. Davyne DeSye’s For Love of the Phantom is a marvelous example of what can be done with a lush and romantic story when it’s placed into the right hands. Wonderful!
November 2, 2017
Davyne DeSye has written a highly creative 2nd novel. She has taken one of the most beloved love stories of all time, The Phantom of the Opera, and written a sequel. Not only is Ms. DeSye creative, but she is a wonderful and clever storyteller. This is the first of a series with more to come from Phantom and Davyne DeSye. I highly recommend For the Love of Phantom written by one of our own Goodreads authors. DeSye is one to follow.
October 7, 2016
Actual rating 4.5 stars
Let me start this review by stating that I am a huge Phantom of the Opera fan, which is why I was drawn to reading this book in the first place. This is a sequel to the original and if you never read it, saw the movie or the play, you're at a bit of a disadvantage with understanding much of this story. The writing was easy to read and the book continued to flow nicely.
It was abundantly clear why Christine was so torn between Erik and Raoul as this ongoing love triangle was well developed. I found myself being pulled between both men and flip flopped with startling frequency. The Persian was an interesting and fun add on as he tried to frame Erik as a serial killer, because of his own personal vendetta with him.
Overall this was a fun and enjoyable read that kept me turning page after page.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
Let me start this review by stating that I am a huge Phantom of the Opera fan, which is why I was drawn to reading this book in the first place. This is a sequel to the original and if you never read it, saw the movie or the play, you're at a bit of a disadvantage with understanding much of this story. The writing was easy to read and the book continued to flow nicely.
It was abundantly clear why Christine was so torn between Erik and Raoul as this ongoing love triangle was well developed. I found myself being pulled between both men and flip flopped with startling frequency. The Persian was an interesting and fun add on as he tried to frame Erik as a serial killer, because of his own personal vendetta with him.
Overall this was a fun and enjoyable read that kept me turning page after page.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2017
I just finished For Love of the Phantom and I sit here in absolute awe and reverence. This book touched me so profoundly, I can hardly express with words. Let me say first and foremost, that I am a HUGE fan of Phantom. Always have been. I still listen to the music on the weekends and they still speak to my soul - the lyrics, the emotions, the intensity. I've been in love with the Phantom of the Opera since I first saw the production at 16 (and that's been quite a few years). When I say that this book met all of my expectations and surpassed them, that is no small feat. The skill and eloquence to pull this off absolutely floored me.
For the Love of the Phantom is well-written, engaging, beautiful, and everything you could ever wish for Erik and Christine. The story picks up right where the first part ended (and where the movie and stage production also end) and carries you away on an adventure that will literally sweep you off your feet. A die hard romantic, I was unsure if this would conclude as I wished, but the ending is satisfactory and wonderful. I couldn't be happier as a fan.
I could gush over this book and never stop but I think YOU should read it. Anyone who has ever enjoyed the Phantom should read it. I could not rate this book any higher. If possible, I would give 100 stars, but it's a solid and very enthusiastic 5. Perfect, just perfect. Absolutely amazing. I LOVED this book. So well done. THANK YOU to the author for writing one of the best books I have ever read and will love forever. You have a fan for life. <3
Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Word Building: 5/5
Story Flow: 5/5
Picky Bitches OVERALL SCORE: 5/5
March 13, 2017
When I picked this up, I had no idea if it was based on the book or the stage adaptation. I've read the book, though ages ago, and I've seen the musical every time it tours here. I also have the sheet music like a proper little musical theatre geek.
How I wish this book was out when Webber was shopping around looking to make a sequel. When I heard he was writing the score for one and the book it was based on, AND that the author had the audacity to write a forward that Leroux was wrong and he was correcting his mistakes in his own book, I actually rejoiced when Webber's cat deleted the score from his electric piano
But you're here for a review of this book and not to listen to my musical theatre rantings.
This was a great book and carried on Leroux's work well. We even see the Daroga again several times. This is, at it's heart, a romance novel. I've noticed several people dislike Raoul and want Christine and the Phantom together. I'm not going to spoil the book for those that haven't read it, but if you're a fan of the original novel, you should read this. If you've only seen the stage version or that entire horrible movie version they made of the stage version, you should read Leroux's version and then immediately read this. There is enough of the Phantom's backstory and what happened before the events of this story that it makes sense without reading the original, but why wouldn't you?
How I wish this book was out when Webber was shopping around looking to make a sequel. When I heard he was writing the score for one and the book it was based on, AND that the author had the audacity to write a forward that Leroux was wrong and he was correcting his mistakes in his own book, I actually rejoiced when Webber's cat deleted the score from his electric piano
But you're here for a review of this book and not to listen to my musical theatre rantings.
This was a great book and carried on Leroux's work well. We even see the Daroga again several times. This is, at it's heart, a romance novel. I've noticed several people dislike Raoul and want Christine and the Phantom together. I'm not going to spoil the book for those that haven't read it, but if you're a fan of the original novel, you should read this. If you've only seen the stage version or that entire horrible movie version they made of the stage version, you should read Leroux's version and then immediately read this. There is enough of the Phantom's backstory and what happened before the events of this story that it makes sense without reading the original, but why wouldn't you?
July 7, 2018
This is a beautifully-written, well-researched, and engaging novel with a unique concept. My compliments to Ms. DeSye.
September 30, 2016
Historical romance is not a genre of which I’m familiar, but I found For Love of the Phantom a great introduction and one that will bring me back. I had only a vague remembrance of The Phantom of the Opera, having watched the movie many (many) years earlier. I have not read the novel. For me, the author Davyne DeSye needed to reintroduce the characters, the setting, and the intrigue. She did an excellent job with all three.
The characters were well-constructed. I could visualize the Phantom’s protégée Christine Daaé as a beautiful, demure young woman, torn between her love of the opera (which she shared with the Phantom/Eric) and her oft-misguided attraction to her handsome new husband, Raoul. The mystery of where Christine’s love would eventually land was dangled just outside the reach of the reader throughout much of novel, drawing you forward to each new chapter.
I pulled for Eric, who I considered the most complex and compelling of the main characters. He exhibited a combination of desperation and strength in his pursuit of Christine. Raoul was a competent and jealous competitor to Eric, and his manipulation of wife’s devotion made him easy to dislike. And then you throw the Persian into the mix. He takes on a personal vendetta against Eric, attempting to frame him as a serial killer, jeopardizing Eric’s future with Christine.
I enjoyed reading Davyne DeSye’s sequel. It was well-paced and filled with suspense. It made me want to go back and read the original, although I can’t imagine Gaston Leroux’s novel to be any more entertaining.
The characters were well-constructed. I could visualize the Phantom’s protégée Christine Daaé as a beautiful, demure young woman, torn between her love of the opera (which she shared with the Phantom/Eric) and her oft-misguided attraction to her handsome new husband, Raoul. The mystery of where Christine’s love would eventually land was dangled just outside the reach of the reader throughout much of novel, drawing you forward to each new chapter.
I pulled for Eric, who I considered the most complex and compelling of the main characters. He exhibited a combination of desperation and strength in his pursuit of Christine. Raoul was a competent and jealous competitor to Eric, and his manipulation of wife’s devotion made him easy to dislike. And then you throw the Persian into the mix. He takes on a personal vendetta against Eric, attempting to frame him as a serial killer, jeopardizing Eric’s future with Christine.
I enjoyed reading Davyne DeSye’s sequel. It was well-paced and filled with suspense. It made me want to go back and read the original, although I can’t imagine Gaston Leroux’s novel to be any more entertaining.
February 22, 2020
Extremely angry rant incoming! 8)
Wow, I hate this so much. This makes The Hero Beneath the Villain's Mask, which I had mixed feelings about, look much more competent by comparison.
DNF at around 200 pages in. There were already a good few stumbling blocks up until that point in the form of really strange, poor details--Erik effectively does blackface as a disguise at one point, which is just...--but I wanted to die when Erik MADE ALTERATIONS TO RAOUL AND CHRISTINE'S HOUSE SO HE COULD STALK HER.
Erik is an obsessive asshole who threatens murder at the drop of a hat. I'm supposed to feel bad for him because of the deformity, as per uzh, but I didn't because I hated his guts and felt like he deserved to be miserable. Congratulations, book, you made me hate one of my favorite characters. "Wahhh, I can't accept the way that things ended between Christine and I, I'm going to stalk her for months and invade her life all over again." Go fuck yourself, Erik.
Christine follows suit. You could have replaced her with a corkboard listing late 19th century female character stereotypes and nothing would have changed. She doesn't do anything but cry and be a doormat and cheat on her husband. You can fuck yourself too.
Raoul is an unrepentant jerk because nuanced characterization of Raoul is so darn rare. But I wasn't mad at him for cheating like the book so clearly wanted me to be because Christine was doing the same damn thing. How dare you be upset at him for doing the very same bad thing you're doing with the guy who tried to murder him? Fuck you.
I skimmed the last part and Erik and Christine have an illegitimate son together because we just can't have one post-canon spin-off where that doesn't happen.
I hated this. I hated this a lot. At least I know not to waste my time with the subsequent sequels. I should probably donate this but it feels more appropriate to burn it so no one else has to read it. It's THAT bad. I am absolutely baffled by the amount of positive ratings.
If I were to try to find some silver lining, the Persian was nice and there was this original side character who was a disabled fisherman that was totally cool with Erik's deformity and generally a nice person. That's it. That was all that was good.
Wow, I hate this so much. This makes The Hero Beneath the Villain's Mask, which I had mixed feelings about, look much more competent by comparison.
DNF at around 200 pages in. There were already a good few stumbling blocks up until that point in the form of really strange, poor details--Erik effectively does blackface as a disguise at one point, which is just...--but I wanted to die when Erik MADE ALTERATIONS TO RAOUL AND CHRISTINE'S HOUSE SO HE COULD STALK HER.
Erik is an obsessive asshole who threatens murder at the drop of a hat. I'm supposed to feel bad for him because of the deformity, as per uzh, but I didn't because I hated his guts and felt like he deserved to be miserable. Congratulations, book, you made me hate one of my favorite characters. "Wahhh, I can't accept the way that things ended between Christine and I, I'm going to stalk her for months and invade her life all over again." Go fuck yourself, Erik.
Christine follows suit. You could have replaced her with a corkboard listing late 19th century female character stereotypes and nothing would have changed. She doesn't do anything but cry and be a doormat and cheat on her husband. You can fuck yourself too.
Raoul is an unrepentant jerk because nuanced characterization of Raoul is so darn rare. But I wasn't mad at him for cheating like the book so clearly wanted me to be because Christine was doing the same damn thing. How dare you be upset at him for doing the very same bad thing you're doing with the guy who tried to murder him? Fuck you.
I skimmed the last part and Erik and Christine have an illegitimate son together because we just can't have one post-canon spin-off where that doesn't happen.
I hated this. I hated this a lot. At least I know not to waste my time with the subsequent sequels. I should probably donate this but it feels more appropriate to burn it so no one else has to read it. It's THAT bad. I am absolutely baffled by the amount of positive ratings.
If I were to try to find some silver lining, the Persian was nice and there was this original side character who was a disabled fisherman that was totally cool with Erik's deformity and generally a nice person. That's it. That was all that was good.
October 27, 2016
I have never read the Phantom of the Opera, though I have seen several versions in film; including the Lon Chaney, Robert Englund, and terrible Dario Argento versions. So, I was not up on the true version of the story. The author, Davyne DeSye, does a marvelous job of bringing someone like me into the story. She gives enough of what was to allow for the enjoyment of what is.
I would also not call myself a “romance” enthusiast, but this book hooked me. The classic love triangle is present here, and there is no preventing the reader from joining one team or the other. Team Erik, Phantom. Team Raoul. Who to choose?
Team Erik, obviously! He’s the phantom!
Still, there was plenty to keep the triangle going. Erik is actually a bit of a creeper, and Raoul is kind of a jerk, but somehow brings it around enough that you can’t hate him. The author did a great job of keeping the story moving, and keeping me interested; which honestly, I wasn’t sure if I could be before I started reading.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone; even those that wouldn’t normally go in for this sort of thing. Seriously, give it a shot, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
I would also not call myself a “romance” enthusiast, but this book hooked me. The classic love triangle is present here, and there is no preventing the reader from joining one team or the other. Team Erik, Phantom. Team Raoul. Who to choose?
Team Erik, obviously! He’s the phantom!
Still, there was plenty to keep the triangle going. Erik is actually a bit of a creeper, and Raoul is kind of a jerk, but somehow brings it around enough that you can’t hate him. The author did a great job of keeping the story moving, and keeping me interested; which honestly, I wasn’t sure if I could be before I started reading.
I would certainly recommend this to anyone; even those that wouldn’t normally go in for this sort of thing. Seriously, give it a shot, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
August 3, 2017
Loved this book. I'm a huge fan of theater and Phantom is one of my favorites. Of course the play leaves something to be desired. Davyne has expertly fulfilled that desire by bringing the characters back to life in an innovative way that draws you in from the very beginning. If you loved Phantom, you will love For Love of the Phantom. A gifted writer makes you forget that you are reading...instead, you feel you are experiencing. That's the case with Phantom. Well done Davyne!
December 5, 2017
This book is nothing that I expected, but everything I wanted.
It was a beautiful, imaginative and well planned continuation of a story that I loved. The way that Davyne DeSyne brought these characters back to life was absolutely perfect. There were no scenes or actions that happened that I felt were out of place or poorly thought out.
This story begins after the events of the Opera house, where Christine is released from Erik, and given to Raoul. They are wed and begin living their life together. All the while Erik is working to be close to Christine again, without disrupting her new life.
Christine must endure a series of events with her new husband, where she learns that his true nature is not that of which she had expected. His wants and needs are put above her own, and she continues to tell herself it is her duty as a wife to do as he wishes. Soon she realizes she has made the wrong choice and begins to miss Erik terribly.
This is a perfect book for anyone who rooted for Erik and Christine. It shows how true his love for her is, and how much he is willing to do for her to be happy. Even if it means unhappiness for himself.
I'm looking forward to reading more of the series.
It was a beautiful, imaginative and well planned continuation of a story that I loved. The way that Davyne DeSyne brought these characters back to life was absolutely perfect. There were no scenes or actions that happened that I felt were out of place or poorly thought out.
This story begins after the events of the Opera house, where Christine is released from Erik, and given to Raoul. They are wed and begin living their life together. All the while Erik is working to be close to Christine again, without disrupting her new life.
Christine must endure a series of events with her new husband, where she learns that his true nature is not that of which she had expected. His wants and needs are put above her own, and she continues to tell herself it is her duty as a wife to do as he wishes. Soon she realizes she has made the wrong choice and begins to miss Erik terribly.
This is a perfect book for anyone who rooted for Erik and Christine. It shows how true his love for her is, and how much he is willing to do for her to be happy. Even if it means unhappiness for himself.
I'm looking forward to reading more of the series.
June 2, 2019
Like many readers, my prior exposure to the story of Christine and her Phantom was solely from the theatrical presentation. I confess I've always been curious as to "what happened after?" Happily, the tale woven by Ms. DeSye provides a gripping and plausible continuation of the tale.
Having never read the original work by Leroux, I was curious and so have begun to read it and am pleased to report that the style and tone of "For Love of the Phantom" feels organically harmonious with the original work, while at the same time is welcoming to today's reading audience unfamiliar with the oft formal styles of classical literature.
I must admit, since I had always held a vision of Christine and Raoul living their hard-won happily ever after, I was disappointed (initially) to learn this was not the case in Ms. DeSye's continuation But my disappointment was short-lived. The true romance of the story, the ability to love another for WHO they are, not what they appear or what they have done in the past transcended my pique at having my assumptions about the character's futures dashed.
Overall I found this to be a highly entertaining story bringing me back to characters I have long loved. Bravo! Highly recommended for lovers of historical romance or those simply infatuated with the Opera Ghost and his beloved Miss Daaè.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review**
Having never read the original work by Leroux, I was curious and so have begun to read it and am pleased to report that the style and tone of "For Love of the Phantom" feels organically harmonious with the original work, while at the same time is welcoming to today's reading audience unfamiliar with the oft formal styles of classical literature.
I must admit, since I had always held a vision of Christine and Raoul living their hard-won happily ever after, I was disappointed (initially) to learn this was not the case in Ms. DeSye's continuation But my disappointment was short-lived. The true romance of the story, the ability to love another for WHO they are, not what they appear or what they have done in the past transcended my pique at having my assumptions about the character's futures dashed.
Overall I found this to be a highly entertaining story bringing me back to characters I have long loved. Bravo! Highly recommended for lovers of historical romance or those simply infatuated with the Opera Ghost and his beloved Miss Daaè.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review**
September 27, 2016
I really enjoyed For Love of the Phantom and, in fact, had a hard time putting it down. "Luckily," my teething baby wanted to nurse for hours last night, giving me a chance to get a great deal of reading done.
Prior to reading this book, my only experience with The Phantom of the Opera was with the movie and the Broadway production, which I was lucky enough to see when I first moved to New York years ago. I enjoyed the continuation of the story, particularly because I felt Christine was more well rounded in the book. As I read the book, I sometimes got worried it was going to veer into territory that would bother me, with the phantom (Eric) being a little overly creepy for me to consider him a viable love interest, but then it didn't. I don't want to post spoilers, but Christine was allowed to be a character with enough strength that it didn't end up feeling like Eric was railroading her wishes.
This was a nice read that kept me interested and ended in a way that made me happy, which at this point in my life is pretty much a requirement. There is enough wrong in the world that I prefer my reading to end on a positive note.
Prior to reading this book, my only experience with The Phantom of the Opera was with the movie and the Broadway production, which I was lucky enough to see when I first moved to New York years ago. I enjoyed the continuation of the story, particularly because I felt Christine was more well rounded in the book. As I read the book, I sometimes got worried it was going to veer into territory that would bother me, with the phantom (Eric) being a little overly creepy for me to consider him a viable love interest, but then it didn't. I don't want to post spoilers, but Christine was allowed to be a character with enough strength that it didn't end up feeling like Eric was railroading her wishes.
This was a nice read that kept me interested and ended in a way that made me happy, which at this point in my life is pretty much a requirement. There is enough wrong in the world that I prefer my reading to end on a positive note.
March 26, 2018
If you wondered what life could have been like after Christine left, this one tells it well. If you, like myself, are a Victorian Londoner at heart who loves a beautiful garden and Erik then this is a must have for your collection. I don't want to give it away but there is a twist straight out of the time frame that just blew me away and I loved it. OK I can't help it I will put up a spoiler.
This is a must have for any Phans collection. This is a beautiful and delicate story. Read it as soon as you can.
This cover is also simply glorious to my eye.
Read more blurbs about this book here
http://aphanslair.weebly.com/book-blu...
This is a must have for any Phans collection. This is a beautiful and delicate story. Read it as soon as you can.
This cover is also simply glorious to my eye.
Read more blurbs about this book here
http://aphanslair.weebly.com/book-blu...
September 27, 2016
Some books are just beautiful, and this is one of those books. The book starts where Christine has escaped from the opera house, as a sequel to Gaston Leroux's Phantom of the Opera. Phantom's quest to find her and putting his life at risk for her was such an engaging experience overall.
This is clearly one of the best sequels I have read--because writing a sequel is never easy. Davyne has done a great job with this book given the expectations were already very high when she picked to write a sequel of such a famous story--and she nailed it!
This is clearly one of the best sequels I have read--because writing a sequel is never easy. Davyne has done a great job with this book given the expectations were already very high when she picked to write a sequel of such a famous story--and she nailed it!
September 28, 2016
I surprisingly really liked this. I tend to like reading fanfiction and anything that continues the stories or adventures of beloved characters is a joy. And this was. I wasn't really expecting it to be anything interesting; I've read phanfic that is bland at best and horrid at worst, but this was neither. It was a lovely sequel to the original canon and seemed to hold true to Laroux's story. Very believable and really sweet. And I always love a happy ending. :)
August 28, 2018
A startling 5*
I love Phantom of the Opera, and when I saw the fact that someone had written a sequel to it I was initially very skeptical about it. I am pleased to say that I now regret taking so long to read this. This is a fitting continuation of Gaston Leroux's original story.
I love Phantom of the Opera, and when I saw the fact that someone had written a sequel to it I was initially very skeptical about it. I am pleased to say that I now regret taking so long to read this. This is a fitting continuation of Gaston Leroux's original story.
October 31, 2016
This sequel to Phantom of the Opera is fantastic!! I love the opera. It's a classic. I love this book. It takes real charisma on the part of the author to continue that great story. Davyne DeSye continued that story in the same remarkable fashion and style of the first story. Sequels are very hard to write. But some sequels take on a magical life of their own. For example, take a look at Sylvester Stallone's Rocky series or Bruce Willis' Die Hard series. My expectations were incredibly high of this book. Kudos to Ms DeSye for having the courage to take on this project. Bravo to her for creating a fantastic sequel to a beloved classic. The same magic that the opera had is continued in Davyne DeSye's story. This story gushes with the same extreme romance as the opera did.
The author builds on the original opera with Erik's undying love for Christina. That alone is a tear-jerker. The characters are the same as in the original. Most everything holds true to the original including the newly developed story - a love triangle. Christine is caught between two men - one that society dictates she marry, and two, the love of her life. The handsome Raoul is society's choice for her. Erik, the phantom, is her other choice. At first Eric seemed really creepy, even for a character, but as the story continues at a nice pace, we get to know him, and really feel for him. At times it's hard to decide between the two, and it's a tough choice for anyone. The happy ending was greatly appreciated. I highly recommend this book!!!
The author builds on the original opera with Erik's undying love for Christina. That alone is a tear-jerker. The characters are the same as in the original. Most everything holds true to the original including the newly developed story - a love triangle. Christine is caught between two men - one that society dictates she marry, and two, the love of her life. The handsome Raoul is society's choice for her. Erik, the phantom, is her other choice. At first Eric seemed really creepy, even for a character, but as the story continues at a nice pace, we get to know him, and really feel for him. At times it's hard to decide between the two, and it's a tough choice for anyone. The happy ending was greatly appreciated. I highly recommend this book!!!
April 30, 2016
Davyne DeSye has kept true to the style of Phantom of the Opera in writing this wonderful sequel. For Love of the Phantom takes into account every aspect of the original tale, while taking Erik, Christina and Raoul across the globe. Erik’s love for Christine is timeless and without limits. Although she was afraid when she fled the Opera House, Christine quickly realized that the only thing she feared was Erik’s disfigured face, not his heart. I very much enjoyed the fact that Erik was accepted by the fisherman, and was tickled by Erik’s sea-faring name of Lucky. The story behind how he earns the name is refreshing and fun, and to see Erik’s acceptance outside of the Opera House, regardless of his facial disfigurement, was heartwarming. For Love of the Phantom does not rehash too much of the original story, and I therefore suggest that readers first read the story of Erik and Christine in the book (or film) Phantom of the Opera prior to reading For Love of the Phantom, in order to gain full enjoyment and understanding of this tale. I recommend this book to all fans of Phantom of the Opera and to those who believe in unbridled true love.
- Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
- Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite
October 5, 2016
This novel is a fun and quick read. The storytelling is smooth, and it was easy to get immersed in the world of the book. At first, I found it a little difficult to root for either Raoul or Erik: Erik felt a little too stalkerish eavesdropping from hidden passages (this works better when he's a tragic hero in the musical). As the novel progressed, though, Erik’s character became more sympathetic. The plot moves at a nice pace, with a dash of mystery and suspense. What held the novel back in my mind was that I didn't become emotionally moved. I was most engaged in the part of the story where Christine tries to navigate her relationship and feelings for two men. The author mixes both a very practical worldview (she wants to be a good wife according to society's rules) with an idealized romantic one (she also wants her soulmate) in an interesting way. Overall, this is a well-told, light read, and I recommend it to fans of romance.
September 15, 2017
The Phantom & Jack the Ripper in one story? Yes!
I'll admit to some trepidation when I read the summary, the Phantom & Jack the Ripper don't seem to belong in the same story. In this case, I was wrong. It's a beautifully well-crafted tale with respect and love for the original characters.
Christine is a stronger, more capable heroine in this version. Erik, unbound from the basements of the Opera House, shows his resourcefulness & determination to achieve his goals beautifully. The Persian & Raoul make appearances along with other familiar names but it is, as the original, all about Erik & Christine at the heart of the tale.
I'll be reading this one again, as well as any that follow!
I'll admit to some trepidation when I read the summary, the Phantom & Jack the Ripper don't seem to belong in the same story. In this case, I was wrong. It's a beautifully well-crafted tale with respect and love for the original characters.
Christine is a stronger, more capable heroine in this version. Erik, unbound from the basements of the Opera House, shows his resourcefulness & determination to achieve his goals beautifully. The Persian & Raoul make appearances along with other familiar names but it is, as the original, all about Erik & Christine at the heart of the tale.
I'll be reading this one again, as well as any that follow!
March 23, 2016
I loved the story. I had to go back and read the Phantom of the Opera again just to refresh my memory. I thought the characters were developed in a way that was true to the original story and true to the characters themselves. In addition, the story kept me riveted - wondering if Erik would get caught; wondering what would happen with Raoul and Christine; wondering what the Persian would do! Terrific from beginning to end!
August 3, 2022
This book is certainly a must read for any Phantom of the Opera fan! It’s such a charming and believable sequel to Gaston Leroux’s novel, and I’m just so enamored with the story. In addition to the beautiful writing and its breathtaking descriptions, I also enjoyed all of the historical aspects, such as bringing the Whitechapel murderer into the story. Just such a great read overall, and I would definitely recommend it to any Phantom of the Opera fan! Can’t wait to read the next books in the series!
March 4, 2019
Interesting
I read the original story of the Phantom.
I enjoyed the way his story evolved. Christine has always been my favorite character. I am glad I read this continuation of this love story.
I read the original story of the Phantom.
I enjoyed the way his story evolved. Christine has always been my favorite character. I am glad I read this continuation of this love story.
May 15, 2016
I read this in one day, I never do that anymore. The last time I did was-oh look at that, the classic Phantom novel back in high school, good to know.
Anyway this is a Christine and Erik romance story at heart. Everyone who is not a fan of that idea may want to skip this one. Everyone else still here? Good because oh my gosh. So have you ever wanted:
A follow up E&C novel to the classic that actually-
-shared its melodramatic mystery time period tone, love scenes and all? (I can just see someone in 1910's France hiding this under their bed, scandalous!)
-Keeps the characters themselves in how they act and speak, and true to their levels of intelligence?
-Does not shy away from Erik's history as it was told in the classic novel nor give him a new one?
-Does not make Raoul a monster of a man but a very realistic one who actually cares for Christine in his fashion?
-Does not make Erik a perfect angel but a very flawed older man who wants to be better and admits to his dark past?
-Has elements of things that were going on in that part of history in the upper classes vs. lower classes and crimes I won't spoil here that draw Erik into a game of ' to catch a killer'?
---Then boy do I have a book for you because this novel is all these things. While I feel like the writing style could stand a bit more showing of events this really is my favorite of all the 'E&C 4ever' novels I've ever read and really this is what I was hoping Love Never Dies would be like.
So can you enjoy this if you've only seen the musical? Yes, I think you could but you would be more than a bit lost about many of the more detailed elements of Erik's history and Raoul's title and how he reacts to Christine's background and well, most of Raoul's character in the first place now that I think of it. He was a bit glossed over in the musical (which I still love tbh) So I would recommend reading the classic novel before this one and getting the full circle of the plot, you won't regret it!
Anyway this is a Christine and Erik romance story at heart. Everyone who is not a fan of that idea may want to skip this one. Everyone else still here? Good because oh my gosh. So have you ever wanted:
A follow up E&C novel to the classic that actually-
-shared its melodramatic mystery time period tone, love scenes and all? (I can just see someone in 1910's France hiding this under their bed, scandalous!)
-Keeps the characters themselves in how they act and speak, and true to their levels of intelligence?
-Does not shy away from Erik's history as it was told in the classic novel nor give him a new one?
-Does not make Raoul a monster of a man but a very realistic one who actually cares for Christine in his fashion?
-Does not make Erik a perfect angel but a very flawed older man who wants to be better and admits to his dark past?
-Has elements of things that were going on in that part of history in the upper classes vs. lower classes and crimes I won't spoil here that draw Erik into a game of ' to catch a killer'?
---Then boy do I have a book for you because this novel is all these things. While I feel like the writing style could stand a bit more showing of events this really is my favorite of all the 'E&C 4ever' novels I've ever read and really this is what I was hoping Love Never Dies would be like.
So can you enjoy this if you've only seen the musical? Yes, I think you could but you would be more than a bit lost about many of the more detailed elements of Erik's history and Raoul's title and how he reacts to Christine's background and well, most of Raoul's character in the first place now that I think of it. He was a bit glossed over in the musical (which I still love tbh) So I would recommend reading the classic novel before this one and getting the full circle of the plot, you won't regret it!
September 9, 2018
Here's the thing about creating/consuming anything that takes place after the original Phantom of the Opera story (book or musical) - it takes a lot of compartmentalizing.
Because the original ending is the best outcome for all characters. Christine shouldn't end up with Erik, and Erik understanding that and letting her go without harming anyone else is the most important lesson he learns. It's his start to becoming a better person.
All that being said, I get Christine and Erik as a ship. I absolutely ship them in that gothic romance sort of way, with lots of sensuality and an undeniable pull towards each other. But getting them together is difficult to do in a believable and EARNED way - it's why so many people either a) turn Raoul into a dick or b) kill Raoul off. It's much easier that way.
I was pleasantly surprised Raoul wasn't AS bad in this book as some writers make him, but the author definitely still relies on those things to get Erik and Christine together.
Which is all a shame because Christine/Raoul is ALSO wonderful and honestly my dream ending is a polyamorous ot3.
Overall, I liked this book but not nearly as much as I wanted to. The serial killer storyline in London definitely should have been drawn out more and have more depth. I wanted a bit more sensuality between Erik and Christine, because that is one of the most compelling things about their relationship - the dual traits of both softness and reverence, along with a inexplicable desire. It just kind of all happens too easily in this book.
Buuuuuut I'm still gonna read the sequel cause I'm weak. But I've read better multi-chapter fics and look forward to reading those again more.
Because the original ending is the best outcome for all characters. Christine shouldn't end up with Erik, and Erik understanding that and letting her go without harming anyone else is the most important lesson he learns. It's his start to becoming a better person.
All that being said, I get Christine and Erik as a ship. I absolutely ship them in that gothic romance sort of way, with lots of sensuality and an undeniable pull towards each other. But getting them together is difficult to do in a believable and EARNED way - it's why so many people either a) turn Raoul into a dick or b) kill Raoul off. It's much easier that way.
I was pleasantly surprised Raoul wasn't AS bad in this book as some writers make him, but the author definitely still relies on those things to get Erik and Christine together.
Which is all a shame because Christine/Raoul is ALSO wonderful and honestly my dream ending is a polyamorous ot3.
Overall, I liked this book but not nearly as much as I wanted to. The serial killer storyline in London definitely should have been drawn out more and have more depth. I wanted a bit more sensuality between Erik and Christine, because that is one of the most compelling things about their relationship - the dual traits of both softness and reverence, along with a inexplicable desire. It just kind of all happens too easily in this book.
Buuuuuut I'm still gonna read the sequel cause I'm weak. But I've read better multi-chapter fics and look forward to reading those again more.
September 10, 2016
In the interest of full disclosure, I must admit that I've never read the original Phantom. Like many, I'm only familiar with the musical version. Having said that, I found For Love of the Phantom to be a wonderful spin-off into the world of "what if", taking fans deeper into the Erik/Christine/Raoul love triangle. The author has a fluid and easy writing style that's a great fit for such an epic tale. The addition of a Jack the Ripper angle was well executed and created an interesting layer to this sequel.
However much my heart always ached for Erik as a character, I was always in the minority planted firmly on team Raoul. Again, I've never read Leroux's work, and it's likely that I'd have a different perspective if I had. Regardless, DeSye does a great job in helping me move to the Erik camp (without much argument on my end). It was a pretty smooth transition.
Packed with love, action, and some solid intrigue, I recommend For Love of the Phantom to anyone interested in seeing the Phantom drama further unfold, and be taken deeper into the world of Christine, Erik, and Raoul where the original leaves off.
However much my heart always ached for Erik as a character, I was always in the minority planted firmly on team Raoul. Again, I've never read Leroux's work, and it's likely that I'd have a different perspective if I had. Regardless, DeSye does a great job in helping me move to the Erik camp (without much argument on my end). It was a pretty smooth transition.
Packed with love, action, and some solid intrigue, I recommend For Love of the Phantom to anyone interested in seeing the Phantom drama further unfold, and be taken deeper into the world of Christine, Erik, and Raoul where the original leaves off.
November 2, 2016
First of all, I have to say that I am a huge fan of "The Phantom of the Opera". The love story is just so beautiful, and I love the mystery surrounding the plot. Before starting to read the sequel, I actually did not know what to expect. I'd always thought that the original was great, but that there has to be more to be told. Davyne DeSye brings the story back to life by sticking to the original characterizations. Erik and Raoul are mysterious love interests, and, believe me, you grow attached to Erik as the story progresses. Christine appears a little at a loss sometimes. But that's ok, since the original story also shows her in that light. However, she also seems quite independent in mind. I liked that she is somehow more dynamic than in the forerunner. Great work, DeSye!
November 23, 2016
For Love Of The Phantom is an amazing, very well written sequel to the original novel about the Phantom of the Opera by Gaston Leroux. I was impressed that Davyne DeSye managed to stay true in her writing style and character development to the original. She did a great job of weaving a fascinating, spellbinding story. There are a few minor flaws in the plot but at the same time there is plenty of romance, action and intrigue to keep the reader hooked. Her writing is engaging and easy to follow. Although the story is meant as a sequel, it can be read as a stand-alone novel because the author gives enough information about the setting and the characters, introducing them well. It’s an enjoyable read. Recommended for all Phantom fans, especially for those unhappy with the original ending.
December 25, 2023
2.5 stars. This was a disappointing sequel, I’ve read better fanfiction than this. It started out having the same feel as the original novel which I loved, but the character development was pretty terrible. Christine acted like a passive child, Raoul was turned into a cheating husband, and surprise, Erik is still a stalker but Christine isn’t creeped out by that anymore for some reason. Even the murder mystery plot line fell flat which is what made me pick up this book. I can see how others might enjoy this story, but it just wasn’t for me.
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