The Nightingale’s Castle: A Novel of Erzsébet Báthory, the Blood Countess

Gripping, Gothic, captivating, chilling, and wonderfully written, The Nightingale’s Castle: A Novel of Erzsébet Báthory, the Blood Countess was hard to put down! I loved the atmosphere of this book, the setting in the mountains, the castle, and the vivid descriptions of life during that time. Was Countess Erzsébet Báthory, the murderous blood countess who murdered over 600 girls, or was she the victim of a threatened King????

In The Nightingale’s Castle: A Novel of Erzsébet Báthory, the Blood Countess, Sonia Velton provides a sympathetic look at the Countess who is alleged to be a heinous serial killer who tortured and bathed in the blood of her victims. I enjoyed this blending of history, fantasy, and fiction. Many know the crimes that Countess Erzsébet Báthory was accused of committing. Historians have debated her guilt and innocence. Was she a powerful and wealthy woman? Yes. Did her wealth and power make powerful men uncomfortable? I’m sure it did. Was she a cruel, sadistic, and vile killer? That is the question!

I enjoyed this chilling work of fiction based on a real woman. The author’s wonderful writing and descriptions transported me to the castle and had me feeling like a silent observer hiding behind one of the many tapestries. I loved the Gothic and atmospheric feel of the book. I could feel the chill in the many hallways and feel the silence that the girls sewed in. I also enjoyed the unsettling feeling that surrounded those who lived in the castle. I also loved the tension and dread which flowed throughout the book. The characters are all intriguing. I felt for the innocent girls, while detesting the characters who were quite sinister. Plus, I may never look at old clocks the same way again!

I also enjoyed how the author had me wondering who could be trusted in this book as everyone tip toed around each other. This was a very nice touch. As the accusations were made, there was an overwhelming sense of unease. What will the accused do or say as their interrogations become unbearable?

This book explores power, abuse of power, loyalty, wealth, trust, influence, betrayal, and abuse to name a few.

Atmospheric, gothic, chilling, dark, and beautifully written. I look forward to reading more books by Sonia Velton.

Thank you to Harper Perennial and Paperbacks | Harper Perennial and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.