Dowry of Blood - Review

Author: A Dowry of Blood

Genre: Horror 

Format: eBook

Pages: 292

First, a huge thank you to a friend of mine who recommended me this book. I  don't think I would have picked this one up otherwise. Despite the amazing cover and cool concept, I wasn't sure this one was for me. And, while it wasn't my usual go-to read, thank you so much for talking into giving it a chance. Because I adored this book.

The concept of this book is something I think appeals to a lot of lovers of Dracula. The story is told through the eyes of one of the wives. We know Dracula is the villain of the story, but he wasn't always the villain to everyone, always. 

It was such a unique take on an old classic, but the prose was beautiful. You can see just how much Constanta loves Dracula. It exists throughout the entire story, but by the time she's writing this letter, she finally understands the truth of everything. So while there's love, there is also sadness, but I don't think there is any regret. Not for how things started or finished.

For me this book was hard to put down. The way this book was written just blew me away and sucked me right in, but I stayed for the plot, to see how it all unfolded. Because I had to know. So quickly I became attached to all three of the lovers and I wanted them to find happiness.

But, I was a little afraid not all of them would make it.

My only thing is the climax feels a bit rushed, but I almost think that was the point. It wouldn't be something Constanta would want to think about, let alone write about. I do love how it all built together and led to the infamous night. I loved that we got a small little flashforward of everyone going out looking for happiness.

A happy ending, for now, kind of ending. Because who knows the future, especially as long as there's one, will bring.

Two last things to note. I do love that the Hawkers got a small mention, even if it is mostly a footnote. It was a fun little easter egg, but I'm glad this didn't follow the book shot for shot. It is its own beast. Lastly, I love that we never get Dracula by name, instead, he's referred to as my lord, my love, husband, etc. Constanta even says she'll never repeat his name. I loved that because this story wasn't his, it was her and it deserved to be told.

HAPPY READING!!