And I Darken

March 21, 2016
What if Vlad Tepes, the historical inspiration for Dracula, had actually been a fearsome and brilliant teenage girl? That’s the question raised in this alternate history, first in a trilogy. Set in the mid-15th century, first in Wallachia and then in the Ottoman Empire, the narrative focuses on Ladislav “Lada” Dragwyla and her younger brother, Radu (later known as the Handsome), who are sent by their father to act as royal hostages in the Ottoman Court of Sultan Murad. There, the ambitious Lada chafes at the limited options available to women, Radu converts to Islam, and both fall for the charismatic prince Mehmed, resulting in an awkward love triangle. White (Illusions of Fate) draws heavily on historical figures and events to craft this slow-burning tale, which focuses more on characterization and drama than on setting and detail; subtle commentary on gender, religious conflict, and geopolitical strife winds up overshadowed by churning romantic emotions. Given the historical bloodshed in which the novel is based, it comes across as somewhat sanitized, though grisly days seem likely in future installments. Ages 12–up. Agent: Michelle Wolfson, Wolfson Literary Agency.

Fiona Hardingham's commanding narration steers a clear path through this densely woven tapestry of mid-fifteenth-century intrigue, rife with conspiracy, assassination, and the varied courses of love and loyalty. With measured pacing and a somber tone, Hardingham unfolds White's sweeping tale of Lada, daughter of the infamous Vlad Dracul, and her younger brother, Radu, who are given as hostages to the Ottoman Empire, where their lives become inextricably linked to the sultan's ambitious son, Mehmed. Hardingham's resonant voice keeps listeners firmly grounded as a strange and destructive triangle of friendship and love develops, with forays into murder, lust, and homosexuality. Mature teens will be glad to know this is the first in a planned trilogy, which will allow them to reconnect with these compelling characters. S.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine