And I Darken

And I Darken by Kiersten White is a captivating gender-flipped retelling of the early life of Vlad the Impaler, or in this case, Lada Dracul. White masterfully weaves historical accounts with rich imagination to create a believable character that could have inspired the legendary tales that followed.

From the start, the gender flip is evident as Lada Dracul embodies traits typically associated with males, yet still retains the nuances of a young girl. Raised in the royal family of Wallachia, Lada navigates a world of absent parents, competitive nobility, and a society that values strength and ruthlessness above all else. The political turmoil surrounding her family forces Lada and her brother Radu to become “guests” of the Ottoman throne, where their lives take unexpected turns.

Lada is a complex and conflicted character, constantly at odds with societal expectations and her own violent tendencies. Despite her fierce exterior, she is fiercely protective and passionate, adding depth to her character. Radu, on the other hand, contrasts Lada with his more feminine nature, preferring intellectual pursuits over violence.

The story unfolds at a captivating pace, keeping readers engaged as the characters evolve through the twists and turns of the plot. While the tale concludes as Lada returns to Wallachia, leaving readers craving more, it sets the stage for the legendary tales that follow.

Kiersten White’s And I Darken is a must-read for fans of fantasy and young adult fiction. With its unique take on historical events and compelling characters, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.