Gradually, Constanta’s jealousy of the other woman turns to admiration, respect, and then love. And her first act as a vampire? Exacting revenge on her family’s killers, reveling in her newfound powers.Īs the years pass, the obsessive love for her master continues to consume Constanta, until they arrive in Spain and meet Magdalena, so beautiful and full of life-the perfect addition to their clan. Filled with desperation and in awe of the power of her savior, she accepts-and becomes reborn as Constanta. Like a vulture attracted to the carnage, the vampire lord suddenly appears before her and offers her salvation and a chance to live forever. The book opens upon the site of a massacre, with our protagonist barely clinging on to life while the rest of her family lay dead around her, slaughtered by a group of armed men.

This is the tale of how she became the bride of her vampire master and lived for centuries by his side, eventually helping him add two more members to their immortal family as they migrate across Europe. Gibson was going for a certain vibe, and whether it’s a vibe that appeals to you will depend on your personal tastes.Ī Dowry of Blood reimagines the story of Dracula, though the classic figure is never mentioned by name, referred only to as “My Lord” by our narrator, Constanta. Stylistically, you could tell author S.T. I have a feeling it will strike the perfect note for some, while for others it will fall flat on its face. Because this one is very much a niche book. This does not affect the contents of my review and all opinions are my own.Īfter I finished A Dowry of Blood, I went to look up the book on Goodreads and was not surprised to see that the ratings for it were all over the place. I received a review copy from the publisher.

Book Review: A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson

A dowry of blood paperback