Author Aiden Truss follows up the brilliant Gape with this novella that runs adjacent to Bram Stoker’s classic vampire tale. Utilising the format of diary entries (just as used in the original book), it’s a fun, wry insight into the narcissistic psyche of the undead bloodsucker.
Beginning with the preparations for the arrival of Jonathan Harker, the estate agent who was sent to facilitate the purchase of properties in and around London. Who knew he who commanded nations was bothered about his dirty castle and so proud of his slippers? Dracula’s frustration at having to use local gypsies to help around the home, particularly when having to do things like cook for Harker, is something we wouldn’t have thought of! We also get to find out how he grabbed the baby that is fed to his brides. The entries are full of delicious details that flesh out what Stoker alludes to in his story.
Getting to read the Count’s side throws some interesting nuggets that Stoker wouldn’t have dreamt of including in his text, such as how often people literally shit themselves when confronted with the prince of darkness. Truss injects the diary entries with plenty of humour, revealing Dracula to be a vampire full of biting wit. And despite his outrageous hubris, he has some surprising moments of self-deprecation at times that, dare we say, add a touch of humanity to the character.
The diary format makes for an easy read and serves as the perfect accompaniment to the original book. Truss’ sense of humour and irreverence shine throughout, but he also doesn’t shy away from some graphic spurts of violence and bloodletting. Heads are ripped off, as well as plenty of throats bitten, and gallons of plasma drunk. Fans of Stoker’s story and vampire fans in general should seek out D: The Lost Diaries of Dracula.
