The Count of Monte Cristo

by Alexandre Dumas
The Count of Monte Cristo cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Historical Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 1371
  • Added: 2025-10-05
  • Updated: 2025-10-11
  • ISBN: 9781627938044
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2013-11-27
  • Formats: 60
  • Reviews: 4
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £3.99–£12.99 Hardback • £9.99–£26.95

The Count of Monte Cristo is a timeless adventure novel by Alexandre Dumas, completed in 1844. It is one of the author's most celebrated works, renowned for its intricate plot and rich historical setting. The story unfolds during the tumultuous period of 1815-1838, spanning France, Italy, and the Mediterranean, and is deeply intertwined with real historical events, including Napoleon's Hundred Days and the reign of Louis-Philippe. The novel explores profound themes of hope, justice, vengeance, mercy, and forgiveness through the journey of its protagonist, Edmond Dantès. /n/n Edmond Dantès, a young and successful merchant sailor, is betrayed and falsely imprisoned for thirteen years. Upon his escape, he discovers a hidden treasure and reinvents himself as the Count of Monte Cristo. With his newfound wealth and influence, he meticulously plans his revenge against those who ruined his life. However, his quest for vengeance has far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the guilty but also the innocent, leading to a complex web of intrigue and drama.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-05
compelling 4.00

The book is described as a darker, more introspective tale of betrayal and retribution with intricate plotting. Its philosophical depth adds to its appeal.

The reviewer on Goodreads describes The Count of Monte Cristo as a darker, more introspective tale that delves deeply into themes of betrayal and retribution. They appreciate the intricate plotting and the philosophical core of the story, which adds depth to the narrative. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling exploration of human nature and the consequences of vengeance. The intricate plotting keeps readers engaged, while the philosophical depth provides a richer, more thought-provoking experience. The reviewer's perspective highlights the book's ability to blend adventure with profound themes, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    The Count of Monte Cristo offered a darker, more introspective tale of betrayal and retribution.

    Dumas' intricate plotting and deeply philosophical core enrich the narrative.

    The book is a compelling exploration of human nature and the consequences of vengeance.

Just Reading Nook · 2025-02-27
masterful 4.75

The reviewer is impressed by Dumas' masterful storytelling and the intricate plotting. They find the way the author weaves plots within plots to be astonishing.

The reviewer is highly impressed by Dumas' storytelling skills, describing them as almost surgical in their precision. They praise the intricate plotting and the way the author weaves multiple plots together to create a complex and engaging narrative. The reviewer finds the attention to detail astonishing and believes it adds depth to the story. They also appreciate the philosophical undertones that enrich the narrative and make it more thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Dumas' storytelling is masterful, almost surgical in its precision.

    The way he weaves plots within plots is astonishing.

    Every detail—the ...

R.R. Horton's Blog · 2023-06-02
enjoyable 3.50

The reviewer acknowledges the book's popularity and its unrealistic plot, but appreciates the vivid depictions of 1830s Paris and Rome. They find the historical settings to be a highlight.

The reviewer recognizes that The Count of Monte Cristo is a work of popular fiction with an unrealistic plot, but they are impressed by the detailed and vivid depictions of 1830s Paris and Rome. They believe these historical settings add depth to the story and make it more engaging. The reviewer also notes that the book's popularity is well-deserved, as it offers a thrilling and entertaining read. They appreciate the way the author brings the historical settings to life, making the story feel immersive and authentic.

Quick quotes

    It is clearly a work of popular fiction in that the plot is far from realistic.

    The depictions of 1830s Paris and Rome seem pretty ...

    The book's popularity is well-deserved, as it offers a thrilling and entertaining read.

The Long Victorian · 2020-08-20
exciting 4.50

The book is described as a thrilling revenge story that satisfies the fantasies of those who dream of winning against all odds. The narrative is engaging and keeps readers hooked.

The reviewer found The Count of Monte Cristo to be a gripping tale of revenge, perfect for those who enjoy a good adventure. They praised the book's ability to captivate readers with its thrilling plot and satisfying resolution. The reviewer also noted that the story is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. They highlighted the intricate plotting and the way the author weaves together various elements to create a compelling narrative.

Quick quotes

    This one is a thumping good read and the ultimate revenge story.

    It is a tale that can satisfy the fantasies of anyone that has ever dreamed of winning the ...

    The narrative is engaging and keeps readers hooked.

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