In this episode of Literature and Lapdogs, we discuss Gaston Leroux's 1909/1910 novel, The Phantom of the Opera. Best known as a musical, the novel is actually a stellar mystery novel, exploring the dark history of the Paris Opera House, drawing on real-life details. We compare the plot of the novel (spoilers) with the structure and details of the musical version of Phantom. We also discuss the critical differences in characterization and plot details, arguing that Leroux's original text is far superior to Andrew Lloyd Webber's version. For anyone who hasn't read the novel, but who knows the musical, we hope this discussion inspires you to take look at the original novel.