A review by ejcoates
The Vampyre; A Tale, by John William Polidori

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.25

I really enjoyed this text and can see how it helped to popularise many elements of the contemporary vampire tale. Lord Ruthven was a fascinating character and grows increasingly unnerving throughout the story. I also liked the globe-trotting element that allowed for elements of traditional folklore to be explored, along with themes of the natural and supernatural worlds challenging the stuffy conventions of Romantic era London.