The Count of Nideck adapted from the French of Erckmann-Chartrian   By: Ralph Browning Fiske

"The Count of Nideck," adapted from the French novel by Erckmann-Chartrian and skillfully translated by Ralph Browning Fiske, takes readers on an enchanting journey through the captivating world of 19th-century France. Fiske's exceptional translation not only preserves the essence and atmosphere of the original story but also captivates the reader with its lyrical prose.

Set against the backdrop of the Vosges mountains, the story follows Baron Rodolphe de Gortz, a nobleman facing financial ruin, who decides to make a fateful deal with the devil. As the devil grants him great wealth, the baron finds himself trapped in an eerie existence governed by supernatural forces. Despite his newfound prosperity, Rodolphe's days are tormented by an insatiable hunger for blood, sparking a thrilling exploration of the supernatural.

Erckmann-Chartrian's original French novel was hailed for its ability to seamlessly blend elements of Gothic horror, mystery, and historical fiction. Fiske's adaptation skillfully maintains this unique blend, ensuring that readers are immersed in a chilling and suspenseful narrative. Through his exquisite translation, the author adeptly balances the different genres, creating a multi-layered and engaging tale.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its richly developed characters. Rodolphe, the central protagonist, undergoes a profound transformation as he grapples with the consequences of his seemingly fortuitous pact. Readers witness his descent into darkness and the internal conflict that arises as he tries to reconcile his newfound powers with his own humanity. Erckmann-Chartrian's characterizations are nuanced, allowing for a deeper understanding of the complex emotional turmoil experienced by the baron.

The setting acts as an additional character, heightening the pervasive sense of unease throughout the novel. Erckmann-Chartrian expertly blends the beauty of the Vosges mountains with the foreboding aura of the supernatural. Fiske's translation masterfully captures these atmospheric descriptions, enabling readers to vividly visualize the mist-laden forests, ancient castles, and shadowy caves that serve as the backdrop for the tale.

While the novel's pacing is deliberate, it allows for an immersive reading experience, ensuring that readers can savor each intricate detail. The narrative unfolds at a measured pace, revealing tantalizing clues and building suspense along the way. This deliberate cadence effortlessly weaves together the supernatural elements with historical events of the era, such as the French Revolution, showcasing the authors' meticulous attention to historical accuracy.

"The Count of Nideck" is an enthralling literary work that effortlessly enthralled readers with its compelling story, rich characterizations, and atmospheric setting. Erckmann-Chartrian's original masterpiece shines through Fiske's translation, providing English-speaking readers with an exhilarating glimpse into the dark recesses of the human psyche. Whether one is well-versed in French literature or new to the genre, this adaptation is a fascinating and captivating read, certain to leave a lasting impression on all who venture into its pages.

First Page:

CHAPTER PAGE I. THE SUMMONS TO THE CASTLE 9 II. I MEET THE COUNTESS 37 III. MY FIRST NIGHT IN HUGH'S TOWER 69 IV. KNAPWURST ACQUAINTS ME WITH THE GENEALOGY OF THE NIDECKS 93 V. I BREAKFAST WITH ODILE 120 VI. THE COUNT UNSHEATHES HIS CLAWS 135 VII. MARIE LAGOUTTE RELATES HER EXPERIENCE 160 VIII. SEBALT TRACKS THE PLAGUE 180 IX. THE PLAGUE IN MY CHAMBER. THE MIDNIGHT SCENE ON THE ALTENBERG 200 X. I LOSE MY WAY AND PASS THE NIGHT IN THE DWARF'S LODGE 219 XI. I AM SUMMONED TO THE COUNTESS'S CHAMBER, AND MAKE A CONFESSION 244 XII. WE CHASE THE PLAGUE. HER DEATH 269 XIII... Continue reading book >>