Publisher Description

A historical YA horror novel based on the infamous real-life inspiration for Countess Dracula In 17th century Hungary, Anna Darvulia has just begun working as a scullery maid for the young and glamorous Countess Elizabeth Ba´thory. When Elizabeth takes a liking to Anna, she's vaulted to the dream role of chambermaid, a far cry from the filthy servants' quarters below. She receives wages generous enough to provide for her family, and the Countess begins to groom Anna as her friend and confidante. It's not long before Anna falls completely under the Countess's spell-and the Countess takes full advantage. Isolated from her former friends, family, and fiancé, Anna realizes she's not a friend but a prisoner of the increasingly cruel Elizabeth. Then come the murders, and Anna knows it's only a matter of time before the Blood Countess turns on her, too.

Review

Popovic balances lush, romantic language with gruesome imagery in this tale of innocence lost.Readers will likely be inspired to do actual research into Lady Bathory's murderous misdeeds. * Booklist *
Popovic also touches on how a patriarchal society can drive women to extremes without letting the truly terrifying Bathory, or Anna, off the hook for their own actions. . . A lush and bloody historical thriller. * Kirkus Reviews *
Hand to fans of dark historical fiction and powerful female characters. * School Library Journal *

Review Quote

"Popovic balances lush, romantic language with gruesome imagery in this tale of innocence lost.Readers will likely be inspired to do actual research into Lady Bathory's murderous misdeeds."

Details