Book Review: Nocturne

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Nocturne     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Elaine Bergstrom
Class/Genre:   Fantasy   Vampire
Ace, Oct 2003, $6.50, 384 pp.

The Austras are a family of vampires who live among mortals yet stay true to their own heritage. They only number thirty because it is rare to find a mortal woman who can be turned and give birth to children that are vampires. Such women are cherished and when it comes to the family’s attention that Irene is one such woman, the vampires keep a watch on her so that when conditions are favorable, a meeting can be arranged.

Richard Austra attends the same college as Irene and since they are both studying music they eventually meet. They fall in love and Irene soon learns what she could mean to the Austra family. Uncertain of whether she wants to be turned, she puts some distance between herself and Richard by traveling on tour in Romania. Once there an enemy of the Austras’ kidnaps her. Richard comes to rescue her, but he finds himself in danger as well.

It has been a long time since an Austra novel has been published but it was well worth the very long wait. Elaine Bergstrom’s vampires compare favorably to the ones in the Anne Rice universe. Readers will find themselves spellbound by these beings that are not evil, only different. NOCTURNE is such a compelling novel that the audience roots for the young lovers to triumph in the face of staggering adversity.

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner