Nov 2023 thoughts: 

This is why I read, to discover books like this. An interesting premise that was executed very well and didn't disappoint. I love it when that happens!

I had no idea I needed to read a book about the abusive dynamics of Dracula towards his spouses, but I did. It was fantastic. It explores a more intimate side of how predatory Dracula is and I think it was masterfully done.

It also explores a different side of his spouses, who are usually portrayed as heartless as he is. Sure, it's often shown that they fear their master and they feel for each other, but I had never seen things explored from their perspective this way. They had such emotional depth, it was great.

This was instantly compelling, beautifully written, and an instant favorite. These characters came to life for me and I felt their struggle. I was rooting for them because even if they're technically monsters too, they didn't lose all their humanity, and they were willing to fight for their dignity.

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Reread thoughts: just as good as the first time I read it. I loved annotating and tabbing this.