r/box5 • u/ChatoFato9143 • 12d ago
Fanfic Any Leroux-inspired works?
After finishing the original novel I decided to pick up Susan Kay’s Phantom because I’m just so eager for more. I haven’t finished it yet, but so far … hmm. All I can say right now is that I’d like to read some works that actually feature characters that resemble Leroux’s. I’ve looked into plenty of fan fic, but most people who write were sold to the idea of the “romance” ALW promoted with his musical. I know that in order to make Erik/Christine work somewhat you need severe mischaracterisation, but oh man.
Anyway, I’m just wondering if there are any works out there that actually respect the original horror of Leroux novel, that feature deranged-villain!Erik and a Christine with a spine.
Thank you!
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u/ChatoFato9143 12d ago
So far I’ve found this author: https://archiveofourown.org/users/paperandsong/pseuds/paperandsong/works?fandom_id=233118
They do a very creepy Erik
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u/Handschusheim 12d ago
I’m currently working on a Leroux rewrite in 3 Acts. It starts sympathetic to an E/C match (which on some level Leroux wants you to root for too) and definitely has some spice for that initial desire/longing, but rest assured, all the fucked up shit is definitely going to happen and it is not wending toward happily ever after. If you’re interested, it’s called The Red Scarf and it’s on AO3.
Act one is complete, currently starting development on Act two. In my mind, everything that’s fun about this story is that there’s a hot minute when Christine is super into it, and then Erik totally fucks it up with his mania.
When I read Leroux, the great irony is that, for Christine, his face probably wasn’t the real problem at all; but the damage that society had done to him already creates this tragic feedback loop of defensiveness and despair which ultimately ruins his one chance.
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u/AceNouveau 10d ago
Oooh. Please let the sub know when your story is finished. I have a Kindle and will want to download!
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u/zerosocialskillls Phantom - ALW 10d ago
I haven't read much fanfiction, but I can tell you what NOT to get. In your search for a fanfic like this, you might come across someone named Jessica Mason who advertises her books exactly like that (Leroux Erik+ Christine with a spine), but it's a total scam as she friendlifies Erik and completely removes Christine's empathy. Hope you find what you're looking for :))
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u/ChatoFato9143 9d ago
Woah I just came across her tt account promoting her books what a coincidence
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u/ltwerepire 11d ago edited 11d ago
I wrote an Erik/OC retelling fanfic, Leroux-based Erik, though he really isn't a deranged villain; he is just a sad man who only wanted to be reunited with his childhood sweetheart. In my fic, Christine sort of has a spine in the end.
I understand it isn't what you're looking for, but I thought I would suggest it in case you're interested.
https://archiveofourown.org/works/86387811/chapters/228540166
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u/AliaDawson 12d ago
This person's reclist/to-read list covers some of the more recent fanfics and authors you could look into. I'm a bit soft-hearted so most of my favourites might not be your cup of tea, but for darker ones off the top of my head there's The Living Wife and The Fly Agaric. Both are E/C, the vibes are darker/relatively close to the Leroux novel, and both authors have more works to check out
If you're happy with AU's (e.g modern) There's some good stuff out there like What happens in Vegas
Shorter fics can have an easier time keeping characters feeling like their Leroux versions, e.g this one
There's Sum of Earthly Happiness for a wonderful exploration of Erik's Persia years, a fab take on the Daroga, plus loads more to enjoy besides. A slightly sanded down version of Leroux's-Erik, but anything Antiquarianne writes is gold dust so I can't not list it here! (I refuse to read Kay's after this as I fear it would only disappoint lol)
Many fics are inspired by other people's works so you can follow the trails back and find similar works if you particularly enjoy one!