Dracula By Bram Stoker
Published by Archibald Constable and Company 26 May 1897
Genres Fantasy, Vampires, Gothic, Literature, Classic
Pages 488
Format Audiobook
When Jonathan Harker visits Transylvania to help Count Dracula with the purchase of a London house, he makes a series of horrific discoveries about his client. Soon afterwards, various bizarre incidents unfold in England: an apparently unmanned ship is wrecked off the coast of Whitby; a young woman discovers strange puncture marks on her neck; and the inmate of a lunatic asylum raves about the ‘Master’ and his imminent arrival.
I enjoy reading books that explore the complexities of the human condition, particularly ones that portray darker themes such as mental health struggles, emotional turmoil, and moral ambiguity. Dracula by Bram Stoker delivers all of this through its chilling portrayal of fear, desire, and power. At its core, Dracula examines the fragility of the human psyche and the lengths people go to when faced with the unknown.
The epistolary format adds an intriguing layer to the storytelling, giving readers a fragmented but intimate review of the characters’ inner lives as they wrestle with their own fears and moral dilemmas. The sense of dread that builds throughout the novel is subtle but effective, pulling the reader into a world where evil is both an external and internal force.
One of the novel’s strengths is how it delves into the contrast between modernity and ancient superstition, particularly through characters like Van Helsing and Jonathan Harker. Stoker’s ability to weave themes of isolation, fear of the other, and the battle between good and evil keeps the reader engaged throughout.
However, as a modern reader, I found some aspects of the story a bit slow at times. The pacing, particularly in the middle, can feel sluggish, and a few of the characters are not as deeply developed as I would have liked. Despite these minor flaws, the novel remains a timeless piece of Gothic literature that continues to resonate because of its exploration of deeply human fears and desires.
Overall, Dracula is a compelling read for those who enjoy stories rich in atmosphere, with complex dark themes that go beyond mere horror. While the pacing may occasionally drag, the novel’s psychological depth and haunting narrative more than make up for it, earning it a solid four out of five stars.
Thank you for reading my review of Dracula by Bram Stoker. I have included a link attached to the title, just click that and it will take you to a link on Amazon where you can buy a stunning collector’s edition of the book while also supporting this website, at no extra cost to you. Stay tuned for my review of the TV series The Haunting of Hill House.
