Race wih the Black Death
A sequel following orphaned heirs fleeing an immortal flesh-eater in plague-era Europe.
Connell delivers a continuation of his previous work by centering on Maddalena and Bartolome, two siblings running from an ancient hunger. The narrative places them in the path of Elizabeth Malatesta, who seeks their blood to stop her decay. A troupe of troubadours accompanies the children, adding layers of danger as they cross France and Italy. The Pope’s bounty in Avignon introduces the threat of betrayal among those who might claim the reward. Connell uses this setting to examine how fear drives people to act against their own survival. The story relies on supernatural elements rather than historical documentation. Readers looking for a direct follow-up to Mask of Death will find the characters and conflicts continuing here. Those expecting a standalone tale may need context from the earlier volume.
The narrative is set in fourteenth-century Europe, specifically mentioning France, Italy, and Avignon. It draws on the historical context of the Black Death and medieval gothic fiction traditions to frame the supernatural conflict.
📝 Description: Race wih the Black Death
💎 Our verdict on Race wih the Black Death
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers who enjoyed the initial volume of this series will find significant satisfaction in continuing the journey with Maddalena and Bartolome. This book offers a deeper exploration of the terrifying dynamic between an immortal flesh-eater and a cult leader seeking salvation through blood. It appeals to those who appreciate supernatural conflict over historical accuracy, providing a intense narrative driven by fear and betrayal. The inclusion of plague-scarred performers adds unique atmospheric layers to the chase across France and Italy. Those looking for a direct continuation of the established lore will find their expectations met, while the themes of hunger and kinship provide emotional weight to the horror elements.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
Connell effectively maintains the tension established in his previous work by focusing on the relentless pursuit of the orphaned heirs. The narrative succeeds in creating a claustrophobic atmosphere where every encounter threatens betrayal, driven by the Pope's bounty in Avignon. The portrayal of Elizabeth Malatesta as a sentient antagonist adds complexity to the horror, moving beyond simple monster tropes to examine how fear corrupts survival instincts. While it lacks scholarly historical detail, it excels in delivering supernatural dread through the lens of medieval Gothic traditions. It is best suited for dedicated fans of the series or those who prioritize character-driven horror over factual documentation.
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