Erin A. Craig has come a long way from the teenage years when she wrote Phantom of the Opera fan fiction for fun.
The West Michigan author, a former professional stage manager, has now written an official novel inspired by the beloved musical. Our Strange Duet tells the story from Christine’s perspective, taking readers deeper into the mind of the young woman at the center of the Phantom’s story.
For Craig, the project is a particularly satisfying full-circle moment. She first discovered The Phantom of the Opera in eighth grade, later building a career in theater after studying theatrical design and stage management at the University of Michigan. She worked on productions around the country before turning to writing full time.
Her first published novel, House of Salt and Sorrows, a gothic retelling of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” appeared in 2019. She has since published six books, including young-adult and adult fiction.
Craig was selected for the Phantom project in late 2024 and subsequently met with composer Andrew Lloyd Webber to discuss the book. She says the experience was a dream come true—and a little surreal for someone who once wrote Phantom fan fiction in high school.
The timing is particularly good for Phantom fans. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the musical’s London opening, with celebrations planned around the world.
Craig will be hitting the road with the book, including several Michigan appearances:
- Sept. 8: Michigan launch at Epilogue Books in Rockford, 7–9 p.m.
- Sept. 10: Barnes & Noble at Woodland Mall, 6–8 p.m.
- Sept. 12: The Book Cellar in Grand Haven, Noon– 3 p.m.
- Sept. 17: Georgetown Public Library, Jenison, 6:30–7:30 p.m.
- Sept. 26: Barnes & Noble in Norton Shores, as part of the Trail of Michigan Authors event, 1–4 p.m.
- Dec. 13: Barnes & Noble, Norton Shores, 1–3 p.m.
She’ll also be on the east side of Michigan and traveling nationally for appearances in New York, Dallas, Utah and San Diego before following the North American Phantom tour for additional bookstore and theater events. Visit the events page of her website for details.
For someone who fell in love with the musical as a kid, getting to help add a new chapter to its story is about as good as it gets.
“It’s an incredible honor to become part of the Phantom family,” Craig says.
