Step into the 19th-century Balkans with Hans Wachenhusen’s The Vampire. Originally written in 1878, this powerful novella vividly depicts life in Bulgaria under Osmanic occupation during the Crimean War—a time of political turmoil, cultural tension, and supernatural belief.

At its heart is Marinka, a young Serbian woman longing for freedom amid chaos, and Victor Berzek, a Hungarian soldier whose love for her defies war and politics. Supporting them is Jowan, Marinka’s father, a wealthy Serbian merchant determined to protect his family from the dangers of Ottoman oppression. Their lives are further entwined with the tragedy of Marko, a loyal Gypsy servant whose sacrifices reveal the human cost of survival.

The novella masterfully blends historical realism with Balkan folklore, where superstition and reality collide. Wachenhusen claimed the events were based on true stories, adding an air of authenticity to the tale. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and survival, set against a backdrop of vampire legends, war, and cultural struggles.

Hans Wachenhusen (1823–1898), a German war correspondent and travel writer, infused his extensive travels and sharp observations into his works. His portrayal of Balkan life and its haunting superstitions provides a rare glimpse into a fascinating era.

This translation preserves the essence of Wachenhusen’s storytelling, making The Vampire a must-read for lovers of historical fiction, tragic romance, and folklore.