Patrick

The author uses diary entries, newspaper reports and other such sources to tell his story. This is a thoroughly interesting approach, though it doesn't quite maintain its effectiveness over the course of 422 pages. The opening scene at Bran Castle is particularly strong; the rest of the book is enjoyable, although it lacks the suspense of the beginning. Even though we all know Dracula today and what happens, the beginning remains exciting, perhaps even more so than for the contemporary readers of the time: Because we know what will happen, the protagonist, who unwittingly falls into the Count's clutches, does not.

The authors shares some interesting thoughts and concepts (Quadrant 2 activities, Win-Win Concep, Circle of Influence). But, this book is way to long and could have been shortened by a few hundred pages. Some examples felt fabricated and unbelievable. A writing style that’s unfortunately common for American personal development literature. Where are the examples of people who tried it and failed? Or at least who hasn’t been a total success.

It can sometimes be difficult to keep track of the investigation when the author lists yet another series of stations, train numbers and times. Yet it is precisely this complexity that is the book’s greatest strength: the investigators get to the bottom of the suicide-case using traditional methods, logic and the pursuit of clues. There are no high-speed chases or dramatic narratives. Overall, the author tells his story in a sober yet engaging style, while it's lacking some suspense. Overall it was an enjoyable, fast read.