They Were Counted

I really enjoyed the political realm, it wasn't given a lot of attention but it was given enough to be interesting and also works well for Balint's characterisation who doesn't really care about politics despite being a politician. I also really enjoyed Balint's side adventure in developing his lands and the co-operative. The intrigues between Azbej and Simo in how lower level individuals gain power in an aristocratic world. The short but ever present shadowy appearance of Slawata was really interesting and really emphasised how scary it must have been for Hungarian nobility to be deprived of their privileges if Austria wanted to enforce direct rule. The Romanian lawyer was also really interesting and his idea on creating a Romanian middle class was fascinating. So there is a lot of meat in this book.

However, most of this book is ultimately a love story. Gyeroffy's story with Klara was great and it showed how a gambling addiction can ultimately ruin everything from your true love to your social status. Balint's story with Adrienne however was infuriating. He should not be with her. I deeply understand why he loves her but he shouldn't be with her when she's so unwilling to be passionate with him and is so reluctant to bring the relationship further. I'm glad they decided to split up and her decision to not commit suicide (as her sister Judith attempted) but to keep on living.

The Wickwitz storyline was interesting as well. He's most certainly the ‘villain' in this book but the book does a good job in showing his side of the story and how it's not exactly an easy choice to make if you have debts but still want to be in the position you're in - he didn't lack morals outright, he just approached dealing with his debts in the worst way of trying to get marriage and let them pay off his debts. I suppose that's pretty immoral actually. He was a great character I think.

Balint is a great character, I just didn't like him very much when he was with Adrienne and I think he knows that himself, especially all the instances of wondering if he can break free of her spell. Overall he's a great character.

Great book overall and a great snapshot in 20th century Hungarian aristocracy.