Dracula: Hero

by Rick Marino

For centuries, the name Dracula has struck fear in our hearts. Legend has it that Dracula (aka Vlad the Impaler or the Dark Lord) fed on the blood of innocents to sustain life. It gave him special powers to carry out his evil deeds. But to people of the remote villages of Romania (fka Transylvania), he was not the monster of legend. What if they were right? What if he is the hero we need to tip the balance in the struggle between good and evil?

148 pages, Paperback

Published February 5, 2025

Reviews

[Deena Schoenfeldt · Rating 4 out of 5]

A MISUNDERSTOOD MONSTER. A SECOND CHANCE AT HUMANITY. A LEGEND REWRITTEN IN BLOOD AND HOPE.
Fans of Interview with the Vampire and Penny Dreadful will be captivated by this bold reimagining that casts Dracula not as a villain, but as a complex figure walking the line between savior and sinner.
In Dracula: Hero, Rick Marino tears down the gothic archetype and rebuilds him as a protector—a man driven by pain, redemption, and the belief that his immortality can serve a greater purpose. With the help of Martha and a cadre of unlikely allies, Dracula confronts a world full of broken systems, human cruelty, and moral ambiguity. It’s not about necks bitten in shadowed halls—it’s about power wielded for good in a world that desperately needs saving.
🌟 WHAT WORKED WELL
• Fresh take on a classic legend: Dracula is portrayed with nuance, complexity, and even tenderness.
• Found-family dynamic: His relationships with Martha, William, and others bring warmth and heart to the narrative.
• Psychological depth: The mental institution scenes and ethical dilemmas add a layer of realism and tension.
⚠️ WHAT COULD BE BETTER
• Some dialogue moments lean into the theatrical, which may distract readers craving modern pacing.
• Shifts between horror, action, and redemption arcs occasionally jar the narrative flow.
🙋‍♀️ RECOMMENDED FOR
Readers who enjoy reimagined classics, monster-as-savior stories, and philosophical fantasy with a beating heart. Ideal for fans of anti-heroes, redemptive arcs, and ensemble-driven narratives.
🎯 FINAL IMPRESSION / VIBE CHECK
Dracula: Hero is a bold, thoughtful take on one of literature’s most iconic figures. It trades in fear for purpose, painting Dracula not as a legend of horror—but as a quiet, unexpected symbol of hope.
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book at no charge from Book Reviews 4 U as a member of their BR4U CREW. A review was not mandatory for receiving the book. The free product did not influence my opinion.

This review will appear on my website 06.13.2025

[Marie Campbell · Rating 3 out of 5]

DRACULA- HERO
by Rick Marino
⭐️⭐️⭐️

Retelling of Dracula as a hero instead of evil perspective. Of course I wanted to read about Dracula as a hero, but this one just didn’t make me love it. The storyline was a bit every where and needed to be put together better. This was in third person POV which lost my interest. I wanted to love this so much, but it wasn’t letting me. Hopefully someone else can enjoy it and actually grip onto the story.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book at no charge from Book Reviews 4 U as a member of their BR4U CREW. A review was not mandatory for receiving the book. The free product did not influence my opinion.

[Aimee Ravichandran · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who knew Dracula had a heroic side? This fast-paced tale flips the script on the classic villain, giving us a broody yet oddly endearing Vlad caught up in conspiracies, chemical lock-melting, and mental hospital breakouts. With a feisty, note-wielding ally and a doctor with questionable ethics, it’s a gothic romp with a modern twist. Bonus points for secret vials and whispered schemes in the moonlight. A wild ride with fangs and flair!

I received a copy of this book at no charge from Book Reviews 4 U as a member of their BR4U CREW. A review was not mandatory for receiving the book. The free product did not influence my opinion.

[Divya Agrawal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dracula: Hero by Rick Marino is a kind of retelling of classic Dracula depicting him as a hero rather than an evil.
The story starts with the Dracula- Blake/Vlad taking over his kingdom in Transylvania after his father's death. He aims to do great deeds for his people.
The story do has a kind of a villian: Van Helsing.

Now the story is not your typical Dracula story and frankly there's hardly a couple of things that gave me quick snap that yes I am indeed reading about Dracula.

The story is fast paced written through third pov. The writing style and language is pretty good and with good flow. Though the storyline needed more structure. It flet too rushed. There were times when the common traits of being a vampire was used but they appeared kind of shallow, making it difficult to imagine and put it together.

I liked the opening the chapter with the quotes related to the content of that particular chapter. The story overall would've been great if it was not written as a re-imagined Dracula story rather just a spy-thriller kinda one.

Would recommend to a reader looking for a quick, easy, fast paced reading.

[Alejo Gonzalez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rick Marino’s Dracula: Hero reimagines the iconic figure not as a monster, but as a noble warrior exiled by history and haunted by legacy. This richly layered novel blends historical fantasy, supernatural intrigue, and sharp social commentary. Marino’s Dracula—reborn as Alec Blake—is a compelling blend of strength, wisdom, and tortured honor. The story spans centuries, incorporating themes of redemption, justice, and love, all while maintaining the pace and energy of a modern thriller. Vivid supporting characters and cinematic action sequences elevate the narrative, and the thoughtful reinvention of Dracula as a misunderstood protector adds surprising emotional depth. A bold, engaging take on a classic legend.

Disclaimer:

I received a copy of this book at no charge from Book Reviews 4 U as a member of their BR4U CREW. A review was not mandatory for receiving the book. The free product did not influence my opinion.

[Sandy Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dracula: Hero flips the script and reimagines the Count not as a monster, but as a misunderstood force confronting modern-day evil. With a gritty, noir-style narrative and an emotionally complex lead in Alec Blake, this book sinks its teeth into themes of redemption, justice, and the gray space between hero and villain. Rick Marino blends sharp prose with cinematic action, giving classic horror fans something bold, smart, and entirely new. A compelling read for anyone who loves a reinvention done right!

Disclaimer:
I received a copy of this book at no charge from Book Reviews 4 U as a member of their BR4U CREW. A review was not mandatory for receiving the book. The free product did not influence my opinion.

[Savannah Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cool twist on the Dracula mythos! Imagine Dracula as the good guy—like, actual hero level. Fast-paced, cinematic, and surprisingly heartfelt. The mix of ancient legend, modern justice, and a little romance made it hard to put down. If you like vampires, but want something different, this one's it.

Disclaimer:

I received a copy of this book at no charge from Book Reviews 4 U as a member of their BR4U CREW. A review was not mandatory for receiving the book. The free product did not influence my opinion.

[Adeleke Inioluwa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an engaging and thought provoking read that captures attention from the very first page. The author does a wonderful job of weaving together interesting ideas, relatable characters, and a strong sense of purpose. The writing is clear, the pacing is smooth, and the themes are meaningful, leaving readers with plenty to reflect on.

Whether you’re reading for entertainment, inspiration, or knowledge, this book offers something valuable. It’s well crafted and enjoyable, making it a great addition to any reader’s collection.

[Rodiat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dracula: Hero offers a bold twist on the classic legend, reimagining the feared Dark Lord as a misunderstood protector rather than a monster. The author skillfully challenges everything we thought we knew about Dracula, blending myth, mystery, and moral ambiguity into a fresh and captivating narrative. It’s a clever, intriguing read that grabs your curiosity from the start and makes you rethink the line between hero and villain.

[Rowan Creech · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting take on the legend of Dracula aka Vlad the Impaler. While Dracula might have been a monster of a soldier on the battlefield, he was every bit the hero. He was like the Alexander the Great of Transylvania. Now he is the man to save the world. This was an interesting read. I received this book from Book Reviews 4 U and this is a voluntary review.

[Rachel C · Rating 5 out of 5]

This twist on Dracula feels like stepping into a fog-covered village where every shadow holds a secret. The story asks a bold question, what if the monster wasn’t the monster at all? I loved the eerie, thoughtful vibe.

[Enoch · Rating 5 out of 5]

“We enjoyed how the story blends dark fantasy with emotional depth. Dracula is portrayed with unexpected bravery, making the book feel both familiar and completely new. Members of Silence Book Club found it engaging and fun to discuss.”

[Ramón Valero · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping and refreshing twist on the Dracula legend. This book reimagines Vlad the Impaler not as a monster, but as a misunderstood protector caught between good and evil. Atmospheric, clever, and thought-provoking an unforgettable read for fans of dark history and myth

[Booksphere Promotion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Your twist on the Dracula legend is bold and refreshing you’ve turned a feared figure into a compelling hero, and it instantly pulls readers in. This premise is powerful, and you should be proud of it.

[Mike Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A bold reimagining that transforms Dracula from feared legend to unexpected hero, delivering a gripping twist on the eternal battle between good and evil.
By Silent book club

[Dollar · Rating 5 out of 5]

So interesting we would love to feature your book in our upcoming event

[Author Lift · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dracula: Hero gave me a completely new perspective on a figure I thought I already understood. The blend of history, myth, and moral ambiguity made this a standout Silent Book Club read.

[Greg Peter · Rating 4 out of 5]

You deserve an award Rick!!!

Happy to be included to explore your novel

[Tom Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never expected Dracula to be portrayed this way. Silent Book Club pick of the month for me!

[JANINIE · Rating 5 out of 5]

A daring reinterpretation that actually works brilliantly.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could feel the tension and fear of the Romanian villages. Great world-building

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

A dark hero story done right, thanks for featuring this book at our book club.

[Jummy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly unexpected twist on the Dracula legend. I couldn’t stop reading.

[Cfgvbhjn · Rating 5 out of 5]

It hooked me from the first page to the last.
Thanks for presenting this my organizer

[Tatiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how this book shifts Dracula from villain to protector. Very refreshing.

[The One · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent Silent Book Club pick. Lots to discuss!

[MANDY · Rating 5 out of 5]

The atmosphere in this story is incredible. Romania comes alive on the page.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never thought I’d root for Dracula, but this book made it happen.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A strong mix of myth, history, and moral questions. Great Silent Book Club read.

[BOOK BUZZ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author gives depth to a character usually painted black-and-white.