This book had so much going for it. Vampires, Nazis, Romania, a mysterious keep, threats to the world, good vs. evil, a star-crossed love story, etc. It began so well but got so boring and contrived. An early book for the writer, he just doesn't get the female character right either. She is a cardboard figure. Her love story is awkward and happens way too quickly. Finally, when we find out what is actually going on, I felt like....huh?