A review by charlottereadshistory
The Nightingale's Castle: A Novel of Erzabeth Báthory by Sonia Velton

challenging dark sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

The story tells the early seventeenth century tale of Hungarian Countess Erzsébet Báthory, the infamous "Blood Countess" who according to legend killed hundreds of her young female servants. 

The story is retold and explored from the viewpoint of the Countess herself and several of her servants, and offers a different explanation of the myths that have been told for hundreds of years. 

Velton spins several threads of the story to start with, the transitions of which could be a little confusing - I found myself wondering what was going on a few times, but it was satisfying when those threads were all brought together.

I enjoyed the omniscient narration and the ability to hear the thoughts and feelings of so many of the women involved, especially exploring the complexities and actions of broken people who had suffered trauma and pain in their pasts. I especially enjoyed the explorations of power in a patriarchal society and how women were used and abused by this imbalance across society and across generations. 

A content warning - I didn’t know about the Blood Countess beforehand so went into the story blind - it is gruesome! There is death, torture and cruelty. I am squeamish and easily scared so keep that in mind if you are too. If you love horror and dark, gothic themes I am sure you’ll love the growing tension and macabre scenes. It will certainly keep you turning the pages to find out what happens!

Thank you to the publishers and the author for this advanced reader copy in return for my honest review - all opinions are my own. 
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