It's a favourite and inspired the name, yes. Sabatini is the best.
Much more than an adventure novel or swashbuckler, it's one of the best books of the century. Period. If O'Brien can receive such literary fame, why not Sabatini? A very intellectual writer, who didn't feel the need to be superior about it, but could always tell a tale. All of his protagonists preffer their wits to force. Andre-Louis starts out as a very cynical young man who discovers his ideals.
Add to that a clever use of the Commedia del Arte and you have one cracking novel of the French Revolution.
Maybe on a good day the Beeb might have a go.
Don't you think the Sea Hawk is almost as good a tale of revenge as the Count?
The Errol Flynn "Captain Blood" is a great example of how you can have a good film that follows the spirit of the book. Some of the changes were even an improvement, like Arabella's character.
I heard good things about the Chamberlain Count, especially as he's a bit unexpected, isn't he.