Dracula buried in Naples: Mastìa presents 'The Curse of Dracula'

A new novel by Leonardo Mastìa intertwines Naples, legend, and family dynamics. Dracula's Curse, published by Baldini e Castoldi of Milan, will be available from October 23, 2026, for €19; the pre-order form is already available online.

The plot follows Germano, known as "the Red," as he tries to rebuild his life after the loss of his wife Patrizia and the departure of his son Vincenzo for England. Through memories, family secrets, and a mysterious legacy, Germano enters a labyrinth where legend and reality blur, and a curse linked to the name Dracula seems to endure for centuries. At his side is Aunt Gemma, guardian of truths that might be better left buried.

Born in 1947 in Campana, in the province of Cosenza, Mastìa has long lived in Battipaglia and is a criminal lawyer. The author has previously published three novels: Il viale degli Angeli (Guida Editore, 2011), Nebbie (Nicola Pesce Editore, 2017), and Il sole d'argento (Cairo, 2022). His literary career has received national and international recognition.

The editorial presentation describes a historical thriller that explores memory, loss, and family ties, offering a Naples told through a lens of realism and mystery. The work emphasizes a Neapolitan church still open for worship as a key element of the narrative, evocatively connecting legend and reality.

Who is Leonardo Mastìa?

Born in 1947 in Campana (in the Ionian foothills of the Sila Mountains in the province of Cosenza), Mastìa lives in Battipaglia and practices criminal law. He has published numerous novels, receiving international awards and recognition; his previous works include Il viale degli Angeli (Guida Editore, 2011), Nebbie (Nicola Pesce Editore, 2017), and Il sole d'argento (Cairo, 2022).