<DIV>First released in serial form in 1844, a year before Dumas’ publication of <I>The Count of Monte Cristo, The Three Musketeers</I> was an instant success, largely due to Dumas’ transformation of the historical fiction genre. In <I>The Three Musketeers,</I> contrary to popular practice at the time, history acted as a backdrop for the story rather than the primary element, making it a fun and accessible read. The story follows young d’Artagnan and his friends Athos, Porthos, and Aramis as they defend honor amidst the power struggles of 17th-century France. Still popular with readers today, this classic is now available in a chic and affordable edition as part of the <I>Word Cloud Classics</I> series.</DIV>