Review: Vlad the Impaler: A Life From Beginning to End by Hourly History

Title: Vlad the Impaler: A Life From Beginning to End by Hourly History 
Publication: October 2nd 2016 by Hourly History
Genre: Nonfiction ~ History
Purchase (free everywhere): Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo
Rating: 4/5

Vlad the Impaler

The character Count Dracula is well-known throughout the world. He is a dark, seductive, pale man wearing a cape. His gaze is quite literally captivating, and he has the strength of ten men. The story, written by Bram Stoker in 1897, has been retold hundreds of times, but is there a historical figure upon whom the character is based? Is there really a Dracula? Many scholars argue that Vlad III Dracula, also known as Vlad the Impaler, is the real Dracula. He was known in western Europe for his cruelty, most especially his penchant for impaling his victims. He is said to have killed somewhere between 40,000 and 100,000 people during his crusade to stop the Ottoman Empire from expanding into eastern Europe. He was equally harsh on the people he ruled and is said to have taken great pleasure in torturing his victims.

Inside you will read about...
✓ Vlad’s early life and family
✓ Rise to power: Vlad’s first reign
✓ War with the Ottomans, Vlad’s main reign
✓ Vlad’s imprisonment, third reign, and death
✓ Vlad Dracula’s legacy
✓ Vlad the Impaler in fiction: Count Dracula

His story, however, is much more complicated than the oft-reported details of his atrocities would imply. He lived in a time of conflict where many were equally as cruel, and he is viewed as a hero in Romania where he is remembered as a protector of his people. This eBook tells the story of his life and times, and discusses his connection to the fictional Count Dracula, in a succinct, compelling manner, which makes for an entertaining read that is packed with historical information.

To be honest, there wasn't much in this book that I didn't already know about Vlad the Impaler (also known as Vlad III, Vlad Tepes and Vlad Dracula.) But luckily that didn't take away any enjoyment in this book as I love reading about this controversial person in history. The few things I didn't know about him before reading this book were really interesting. It would also be perfect for readers who want to read and learn more about Vlad III.

To be clear, Vladd III is NOT Count Dracula. Bram Stoker only took his name and based his character of Dracula on Vlad III, although even this is being questioned still. We don't actually know if he indeed used the Impaler as inspiration aside from the name.

I've always been pretty intrigued by Vlad the Impaler and his complex personality. So this book was pretty compelling to me. My favorite chapter by far was 'War with the Ottomans, Vlad's main reign.' The Ottoman Empire also happens to be a favorite subject in history of mine. I always enjoy reading about it and the connection with Vlad III.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys reading about history, Vlad the Impaler, the Ottoman Empire or this era in history in general. With only 48 pages it's a quick and easily read book. 

Check out my other reviews:

The Black Death: A History From Beginning To End

Mayan Civilization: A History From Beginning To End

More Hourly History reviews to come soon!