Published in 1793, The Island of Bornholm (Ostrov Borngol'm) is one of Karamzin's more effective works of fiction. The awesome but majestic Scandinavian landscape, the medieval Gothic castle with its drawbridge, vaults, and subterranean dungeon, the nocturnal setting, the intrusion of dreams, "forbidden love," and the terrible vengeance visited upon the two young lovers, and finally the all-pervading gloom and mystery (which the author cannot bring himself to reveal even at the end of the work) combine to evoke a thoroughly romantic atmosphere. By hints and allusions, by delicate shades and halftones, Karamzin skillfully creates a sense of deepening mystery, of growing suspense. The "truth" of the tragedy is only suggested, never boldly stated, and when he reaches the conclusion of his tale Karamzin tauntingly leaves the reader to resolve the mystery for himself.