I really enjoyed this novella. It starts out serene in a nice Swiss village; people are celebrating and there is some of the best sounding food I've ever heard of being served. However it begins to become darker and darker as the peasants of the village are forced to do favors for the knights in the castle, and a deal is struck that will put their lives in jeopardy.
This was written in 1842 and it holds up well. The Christianity theme is quite obvious throughout, but being written by a pastor that's not surprising. It does not come off as preachy, rather as a parable about what can happen if you do not have faith and do not treat others well.
This translated edition was done very well; I have heard the earlier editions of this translation were not done as satisfactorily, but this one flowed smoothly. This story was engaging and would recommend it for a good gothic horror story.
Solid 4 stars.
