Gaston Leroux 
The Phantom of the Opera & The Mystery of the Yellow Room (Unabridged) 
The Ultimate Gothic Romance Mystery and One of the First Locked-Room Crime Mysteries

Gaston Leroux’s ‘The Phantom of the Opera & The Mystery of the Yellow Room (Unabridged)’ is a captivating blend of mystery, horror, and romance. Leroux’s intricate plots and vivid descriptions create a haunting atmosphere that immerses the reader in the world of the unknown. The Gothic elements in both stories enhance the suspense and add a layer of depth to the narratives, making them timeless classics in the literary world. Leroux’s attention to detail and ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats make these novels a must-read for lovers of both mystery and romance alike. His writing style is rich in imagery and symbolism, allowing readers to delve into the complexities of human nature and the darkness that lurks within us all. Gaston Leroux, a French journalist and author, drew inspiration for his novels from his own experiences and observations. His fascination with the macabre and mysterious is evident in his works, as he delves into the depths of the human psyche and explores the darker aspects of society. Leroux’s unique perspective and storytelling skills set him apart as a master of the genre, and his influence can be seen in the works of many modern authors. I highly recommend ‘The Phantom of the Opera & The Mystery of the Yellow Room (Unabridged)’ to those who appreciate finely crafted mysteries with a touch of the supernatural. Leroux’s ability to blend suspense, romance, and horror in a seamless narrative makes these novels a thrilling and unforgettable read.

About the author

Gaston Leroux (1868-1927) was a French journalist and author of detective fiction, whose works are revered in the annals of classic mystery literature. Leroux’s journalistic career, which began at L’Echo de Paris and led him to cover an impressive array of significant events, including the Russian Revolution, undoubtedly shaped his intricate plotting and rich, descriptive narratives. His tumultuous experiences provided fertile ground for his fiction, where he combined the journalistic eye for detail with a boundless imagination. Leroux’s enduring legacy rests on his two masterpieces: ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ (‘Le Fantôme de l’Opéra’, 1910), a gothic novel interweaving romance, horror, and tragedy in the bowels of the Paris Opera House, and ‘The Mystery of the Yellow Room’ (‘Le mystère de la chambre jaune’, 1907), heralded as one of the first locked-room mystery novels. The latter introduced the inquisitive and relentless reporter-detective Joseph Rouletabille, a character who would become a cornerstone of detective fiction. Leroux’s literary style, which often blurred the lines between fantastical romance and suspenseful thriller, cemented him as a pivotal figure in the genres of mystery and gothic fiction. His works continue to be adapted into numerous films, plays, and musicals, most notably Andrew Lloyd Webber’s grandiose musical adaptation of ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, ensuring that Leroux’s tales of intrigue and passion remain beloved by generations.