The Count of Monte Cristo was written by Alexandre Dumas and first published in book form in 1844-45. It is a novel set firmly in history, with many key plot points based on external political events. The key figure in French politics during the first quarter of the nineteenth century was Napoleon Bonaparte, who, though he does not appear directly in the novel, plays such a significant role that he can almost be counted as one of the major characters. The story follows handsome Edmond Dantes as he escapes from Chateau d'If after being imprisoned for 14 years. With the knowledge he gained in prison, Dantes locates an immense treasure, recreates himself as a dashing count, and vows to reward those who were kind to him and to punish those who conspired to imprison him. A tale full of wit, revenge and hope, this publication of The Count of Monte Cristo is part of the Qualitas Classics Fireside Series, where pure, ageless classics are presented in clean, easy to read reprints. For a complete list of titles, see: http: //www.qualitaspublishing.com"