The Black Tulip - Alexandre Dumas - Book review & discussion

Let's discuss The Black Tulip, a novel written by Alexandre Dumas. This is a spoilerfree book review.

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0:00 - About The Black Tulip
0:48 - What it's about
1:21 - Review + historical background

[JDesEsseintes-x]

I also love books about passionate people or people who are obsessed with things. This started with the Girl in Hyacinth Blue, which is a story of a painting as it travels between owners and what it means to each of them. Then, I ended up reading other books about the same painter. I already know I want to read the Black Tulip thanks to your review! I love that it's approachable as I always felt intimidated by the big names like Dumas.

[annamattos]

I love The Black Tulip too! I devoured that book in two days, it was very engaging.

[TimelessReadsAClassicsPodcast]

I love how The Black Tulip mixes political intrigue with something as delicate as a flower. I went in expecting political drama, but what stayed with me was how tender and strange it is—a man risking everything not for power, but for a flower. Dumas plays with obsession and hope in a way that feels almost modern, even though it’s wrapped in historical detail.

I just did a podcast episode unpacking some of those themes—how beauty becomes a form of resistance. Would love to hear what others think about that angle.

[patsmith]

You’ve sold it to me. If it’s anywhere close to Monte Cristo I’m ordering a copy immediately!

[JDesEsseintes-x]

I have finished The Black Tulip, dear Emmelie. It was a beautiful gift of a recommendation. ❤

[johnmckinstry]

Have just finished this book. Thought is was very good and a book that I found easy to read.😊

[michaelclark]

Currently reading it. I find it very good. I picked it up in a basically brand new copy at the local thrift store for something like $1.50. Well worth it.

[joshimpinto]

I've read The Count of Monte Crisco, and The Three Muskesteers; but I haven't had an opportunity to read The Black Tulip. It has a very intriguing plot - I also love characters who are passionate about certain things!

Thank you for recommending an Alexandre Dumas' novel! I will definitely prioritise it.

[ToReadersItMayConcern]

Wonderful review, as always, Emmelie.

[martindiaries]

Thank you for the recommendation, I haven't heard of this novel! One more book to be read from my favorite author!

[leslieh]

I’m half way through the Count of Monte Cristo and I’m loving it!! I can’t wait to read this one too. ❤️

[angelaluz]

I really liked this one. I don't understand why so many people seem ot dislike it so very much.

[MargaretPinard]

I just got to participate in a Count of Monte Cristo adaptation reading on the FunClassic Reads channel, and it was so much fun! We each played *many* characters 😅 Haven't read any Dumas, but going to be tackling some of the 19thc French greats this summer...

[ReadingIDEAS.-uzxk]

I read the Count of Monte Cristo and loved it so I have bought copies of The Black Tulip, The Three Musketeers, Chicot the Jester, The Forty Five Guardsmen, Twenty Years Later, The Journal of Madame Giovanni and Marguerite de Valois. I maybe some time. Happy reading.

[andrewl]

Great review, I need to start The Count of Monte Cristo but if I enjoy that I might check out this book!

[binglamb]

This sounds very good. I am embarking on an informal attempt to read more of Dumas this year. I plan to read The Three Musketeers this month and its sequels up to The Man in the Iron Mask over the balance of the year. I read The Count of Monte Cristo in March and absolutely loved it. The Black Tulip must go on my list of Dumas to read! Thank you for bringing it to my attention.

[apoetreadstowrite]

I haven't read any Dumas, why not??!!! I must get into it - thanks for the prod.

[meryuk]

I loved it too! The book actually led me to TCOMC . Somehow I always wanted to read it, just bc of its title. Along with the black arrow. 🙂 (Which is great as well) I remember the fat (?) vicious jailer 🏰🙂 the three musketeers haven't even finished and slim chances of that ever happening

[allesvergaengliche]

I shall read it next! Loved Monte Cristo, have not yet read Musketeers.

[efkharisto]

i hadn't heard of this one so i'll definitely give it a go! I've read a lot on this period and a fave of mine is Tulip Fever by Deborah Moggach- also made into a film.