the book started off just as i expected, a gloomy castle, a gothic vibe & the horny brides encircling jonathan but it spiralled into a whole different story altogether. i really enjoyed how the iconic horror novel was turning the genre in on itself from the start, spreading the plot across oceans to illustrate the calamity that may occur. dracula is a fascinating character, both charming & detestable, he continuously feeds on what the reader is feeling & stoker uses this to elevate the creepiness presented throughout. i loved the use of the characters & how they related to each, having some comic elements lighten up the mood with an undertone of horrors. many lines made me chuckle, & as i turned the page i’d be fearing for the life of a character, showing just how well they played off each other to grow relationships. they’re in a very sticky situation but the connections guided the reader through their personalities & plans effortlessly. my only hope was more dracula. i think perhaps the structure of letter writing to present the story limited his presence, which is unfortunate because as such an iconic villain, he doesn’t seem around much. we’re told of his immense power & seduction but rarely see him in a scene that demonstrates it. that may be me being greedy & not understanding the gravitas of the figure but i really wanted more. great & strong story overall, & i can’t wait to delve into all of the adaptations.