'château des Carpathes' Summary

The Castle of the Carpathians tells the story of the rivalry between two charismatic men for a young Italian soprano and the tragic events that follow. Five years before the publication of Bram Stoker's Dracula, Jules Verne (1828-1905), renowned for his blend of science and the mysterious, had already set this fantastic tale in the dark forests and mountains of the Carpathians. The story begins with the arrival of engineer Franz de Telek at the castle of Baron Gorc. Franz has been hired to repair the castle's water supply, but he soon finds himself embroiled in a dangerous rivalry with the Baron for the love of the beautiful soprano Stilla. As Franz and the Baron compete for Stilla's affections, a series of strange and supernatural events begin to occur. The castle is haunted by the ghost of the Baron's first wife, and there are rumors that a werewolf is stalking the surrounding countryside. Franz and Stilla begin to suspect that the Baron is behind these events, and they fear for their lives. The Castle of the Carpathians is a classic gothic novel full of suspense, atmosphere, and romance. Verne's vivid descriptions of the castle and the surrounding mountains create a truly immersive experience for the reader. The characters are well-developed and believable, and the plot is full of twists and turns. The Castle of the Carpathians is a must-read for fans of gothic fiction and classic horror.