'Masterpiece' mystery book written in the 19th century is 'best novel you will ever read'

A classic novel, written in the mid-19th century, has been hailed by fans, more than a century since its release. Fans have described the mystery tale as the "best book you'll ever read", pretty high praise.

The Count of Monte Cristo is an adventure novel by the French writer Alexandre Dumas. It was serialised from 1844 to 1846, then published in book form in 1846, and it is one of his most popular works, along with The Three Musketeers (1844) and Man in the Iron Mask (1850). Like many of his novels, it was expanded from plot outlines suggested by his collaborating ghostwriter, Auguste Maquet. It is highly regarded as a classic work of French and world literature.

The book's blurb reads: "In his rousing adventure story, Alexandre Dumas employs all the elements of compelling drama-suspense, intrigue, love, vengeance, and the triumph of good over evil-that contribute to this classic novel's irresistible and timeless appeal.

In the post-Napoleonic era, a young sailor from Marseilles is poised to become captain of his own ship and marry his beloved. But jealous enemies provoke his arrest, condemning Edmond Dantès to lifelong imprisonment in the infamous Château d'If. There, his sole companion reveals his secret plan to escape, as well as the location of a trove of riches hidden on a remote island. Determined to avenge himself against the men who conspired to destroy him, the newly free Edmond uses the treasure to forge a mysterious and powerful new identity: the Count of Monte Cristo."

The Count of Monte Cristo has been hailed by readers and boasts an impressive 4.32 out of five-star rating on Goodreads.

One reviewer said: "However, on Reddit, a user created a thread titled 'the best book you've ever read, and people have been debating their top picks.

One person claimed "The Count of Monte Cristo - without a doubt" was their choice for best book. They added: "This big boy sat on my bookshelf for years, intimidating me. I mentally set aside a couple of months to work my way through it, planning to read some other small novels during. But I couldn't put it down!! The size turned out to be the best bit cause I never wanted it to end!! Also allowed for a really big lead-up and payoff in the ending. So much happens in it, it's so clever in the plot. Just loved it."

Another user agreed, stating: "The Count of Monte Cristo. I can't help but be sucked into the world, the characters. Adventure indeed. I fell in love with it. The work explores a range of themes, including jealousy, hope, justice, vengeance, mercy, and forgiveness. I have the unabridged Penguin Classics doorstop. No regrets. Truly deserves to be called a classic. Its 1000+ pages are meant to be savoured."