I was going to say this – though I've only read it once, I'll certainly read it again. Loved how much it immersed you in the world.

Recently I enjoyed Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr for similar reasons, if you're looking for recommendations!

That looks like it’s up my alley, I’ll check it out. Thanks!

Count of Monte Cristo is the best revenge story ever told which is why it appeals to me, but you’re right about the immersion aspect. Maybe I would choose the unabridged version for the full experience.

Oh yeah, it’s a cracking story too! A proper journey and what a revenge.

Hope you enjoy it!

You might also enjoy The Three Musketeers by Alexandre Dumas.

It’s on my bookshelf but I’ve been slacking. Too much HackerNews probably.

I really do love the 19th century magazine to novel genre though.

I'd recommend you read "The Black Count" by Tom Reiss.

It's a non-fiction biography of Alexandre Dumas's father, the inspiration for The Count of Monte Cristo. It holds the same luster of the 19th century while giving you a factual recount of some larger than life figures.

This looks excellent, thanks