I have an enduring passion for vampires that transcends cultures and genres. My fascination with these creatures can be traced back to a questionable age when I first encountered influential works of vampire media. This obsession has only intensified over time, and I’m not alone in my enthusiasm. The widespread appeal of vampires is evident in the sheer number of books published each year, cutting across genres and cultures.
In fact, categorizing these titles into genre categories was more challenging than selecting them, as there’s significant overlap between styles. While I believe all vampire-related content has some horror elements, most people distinguish between romance novels and horror stories featuring vampires. To reflect this distinction, I’ve attempted to separate the titles by genre, acknowledging that lines can be blurry. Feel free to share your thoughts on Twitter and let’s discuss the nuances!
HORROR VAMPIRE BOOKS
Look for Me by Moonlight by Mary Downing Hahn
The journey begins with a young adult horror book from 1995 that has left an indelible mark on me. As I revisit Look for Me by Moonlight, I’m struck by the same unsettling feeling that gripped me as a child – only this time, it’s more profound. The novel’s unique take on vampirism is what sets it apart: Vincent, the vampire protagonist, is a master of manipulation, constantly struggling to adapt to a world moving at a pace he can’t keep up with.
His annual returns to a quaint Maine inn, where he selects his next victims, serve as a chilling reminder that he’s always one step ahead. Meanwhile, Cynda, a 16-year-old outcast, unwittingly finds herself in the crosshairs of this calculating killer. Even decades later, I still feel the icy grip of fear radiating from these pages. Look for Me by Moonlight remains a treasured fixture on my bookshelves, a testament to its enduring ability to unsettle and captivate.
The Wicked and the Willing by Lianyu Tan
The Vanquishers by Kalynn Bayron
The Route of Ice & Salt by José Luis Zárate (translated by David Bowles)
In a fascinating yet unsettling tale, The Route of Ice & Salt reimagines a significant segment of Bram Stoker’s iconic novel Dracula. This queer retelling focuses on the doomed Demeter’s journey from Varna to Whitby, a route that the steadfast captain has traversed numerous times, often alone among his men. His dreams are filled with longings and pleasures he can’t indulge in, but this voyage is marked by an unmistakable sense of foreboding.
As rumors spread about something sinister stalking the Demeter’s crew, they grow increasingly uneasy, seeking reassurance from their captain to keep them safe. With its blend of beauty and creepiness, this novel seamlessly blends historical elements with queer themes, making it a compelling addition to this list.
Night’s Edge by Liz Kerin
ROMANCE VAMPIRE BOOKS
My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine
The charm of My Roommate is a Vampire lies in its clever blend of relatable roommate dynamics with a delightfully absurd twist. Who can resist the allure of the ‘awkwardly navigating’ trope when it’s combined with the revelation that one’s roommate just so happens to be undead?
The story gains even more comedic potential when considering Cassie’s initial ignorance of Frederick’s condition, driven by her desperation for a new apartment in a desirable neighborhood and the prospect of having a considerate roommate who keeps to himself. However, the discovery of bloodstains on the fridge serves as a stark reminder that all is not well with Mr. Frederick J. Fitzwilliam, raising questions about his true nature and the implications of their living arrangement.
Court of the Vampire Queen by Katee Roberts
I’m absolutely enthralled by this series, and the latest installment is no exception. Without a single note to clarify, I can confidently give it a 10/10 rating – it’s that captivating! As a self-proclaimed fan of dark romances, I was thoroughly entertained by ‘Court of the Vampire Queen’. The story falls squarely within the realm of ‘I ripped your throat out by accident because you got me off so well. Whoopsie’, a trope that I must admit has its own unique charm.
Essentially, this volume brings together four previously published novellas and follows Mina, a half-vampire protagonist, as she navigates her complicated relationships with four bloodline vampire lovers. Their collective goal is to overthrow Mina’s father and break free from the threat of his power. The more I read, the more I’m left wondering – sex causes literal fires? It’s a wild ride, to say the least! If you’re looking for an unforgettable reading experience, look no further.
Better Off Red by Rebekah Weatherspoon
In Rebekah Weatherspoon’s captivating novel, Better Off Red, a unique concept is brought to life: a vampiric sorority. The Alpha Beta Omega organization seems like any typical college Greek group at first glance – a clique of confident and beautiful women eager to take in new members. However, when Ginger Charmichael pledges against her will, she’s forced to adapt to a lifestyle that includes swearing a lifelong oath of service to the vampiric sisters of ABO.
As she falls deeply for the queen of the nest, her priorities undergo a profound shift. The novel marks the beginning of a series centered around this intriguing sorority, offering readers a rich and immersive experience.
A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole
I couldn’t possibly discuss Kresley Cole’s Immortals After Dark series without giving a nod to Lachlain MacRieve, the werewolf clan leader who’s been sworn enemies with vampires for far too long. Little does he know, his quest for a mate has finally led him to… drumroll please… a half-vampire, half-Valkyrie woman named Emmaline. Talk about an inconvenient truth!
Fate, however, has a way of throwing curveballs into the mix, and before you know it, Emmaline and Lachlain are navigating a whirlwind of peril and adventure that ultimately forces them to confront their undeniable connection. If you’re craving more of these tantalizing tales of chaos and mayhem, be sure to tune in to season one of the Fated Mates podcast for an unforgettable listening experience.
In the Roses of Pieria by Anna Burke
As a lover of all things dark and whimsical, I was thrilled when Anna Burke combined three of my favorite creatures – vampires, fae, and scary fungi – into one book. The result is ‘In the Roses of Pieria’, a captivating tale that weaves together ancient love affairs, mysterious archivists, and hidden truths. At its core lies Clara Eden, an ambitious archivist struggling to find her place in the world.
When eccentric Agatha Montague offers her a chance to uncover the correspondence of two star-crossed lovers from thousands of years past, Clara leaps at the opportunity. But as she delves deeper into the project, she begins to sense that Agatha is hiding something – and the truth may come too late to save those closest to her.
HISTORICAL VAMPIRE BOOKS
Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas
In a year filled with captivating vampire tales, this book has truly stood out. Cañas’s take on these creatures of the night is both intriguing and thought-provoking, leaving me wanting more. The story follows Nena and Néstor, childhood sweethearts who grew up together on her father’s ranch in Mexico. However, their idyllic life was shattered when Nena fell victim to a terrifying vampire attack, while Néstor vanished into the night, fearing he would be held accountable.
Years later, as tensions escalate with the United States, these star-crossed lovers are brought back together. As the horrors of war give way to the dark secrets of their past, Nena and Néstor must confront their demons and put aside their differences in order to protect their home and those they hold dear.
Blood Countess by Lana Popović
I have a confession to make: I’m powerless against retellings of Báthory’s story. Lana Popović’s captivating writing style is simply irresistible, which made ‘Blood Countess’ an instant win for me. The tale centers around Anna, a humble scullery maid who catches the eye of the enigmatic and alluring Countess Elizabeth Báthory.
As Anna rises from her mundane duties to become the Countess’s personal confidante, companion, and eventually plaything, she finds herself increasingly isolated from those she loves and trapped in a web of deceit by the very person who should be protecting her – the Blood Countess herself.
A Dowry of Blood by S.T. Gibson
There’s no need for me to mince words – A Dowry of Blood is, without a doubt, the quintessential vampire novel. It checks all the boxes: it’s visually stunning, steeped in romance, shrouded in darkness, rife with violence, and features a polyamorous relationship that adds depth to an already complex narrative. The story revolves around Dracula’s brides, as told through the eyes of Constanta, one of three companions created by the infamous vampire over the course of the novel.
Written as a poignant farewell letter to the man she both adored and despised in equal measure, the book chronicles a century-spanning journey of intimacy, mistreatment, and the unexpected blossoming of love between her and her fellow brides.
The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez
In the realm of vampire book lists, Rule #1 is straightforward: we can’t overlook The Gilda Stories. This two-time Lambda Award winner is a seminal work in vampire literature, rivaling the iconic Vampire Chronicles in its significance. The narrative begins with a young girl’s daring escape from slavery in the 1850s and spans the next 200 years as she transforms into a vampire, adopts the moniker Gilda, and embarks on a quest for companionship and belonging.
This thought-provoking novel is an absolute must-read in the vampire fiction genre; if you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing it yet, I highly suggest adding it to your ever-growing To-Be-Read list.
A Long Time Dead by Samara Breger
In 1837, the world is introduced to A Long Time Dead, a captivating tale that delves into the lives of two vampires: Poppy, who has just awakened to her newfound immortality, and Roisin, an ancient being with secrets aplenty. As Poppy navigates her transformation, Roisin becomes her guide, fostering a bond between them as they navigate their new life together.
But centuries-old secrets can’t be kept hidden forever, and before long, Roisin’s past begins to unravel, disrupting the harmony they’ve found. This sets off a thrilling adventure in classic Gothic style, with twists and turns that span continents and feature a memorable cast of characters. Meanwhile, a sinister force lurks in the shadows, threatening to destroy Poppy and Roisin’s happiness once and for all.
FANTASY/SCI-FI VAMPIRE BOOKS
Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Innovative takes on the vampire story are always exciting, and Certain Dark Things stands out for its creative approach. Rather than a single, cookie-cutter vampire narrative, this book delivers a rich tapestry of different species and fascinating characters. Set in Mexico City, the story follows street kid Domingo as he navigates the treacherous streets, where he encounters Atl, a vampire with deep roots in Aztec blood-drinking traditions.
On the run from a rival clan, Atl’s survival is far from certain. Yet, through a series of chance encounters and shared struggles, Domingo and Atl form an unlikely alliance to survive the dark alleys and emerge victorious.
House of Hunger by Alexis Henderson
I’ve been evangelizing about this book to anyone who will listen, and I’m not showing any signs of slowing down. My enthusiasm for it is palpable, but I’ll take credit for it – I’ve earned a reputation as someone who’s genuinely passionate about what they recommend. If you’re craving a hauntingly beautiful retelling of the Báthory mythos with a dark, Gothic twist, then this book is for you.
The House of Hunger is notorious for its power and influence among the noble families in the North, where Countess Lisavet reigns supreme. As the newest bloodmaid at her beck and call, Marion’s future looks bright if she can just deliver on her duties. But when Lisavet sets her sights on Marion, it seems like a golden opportunity has presented itself – until a trail of vanished bloodmaids sends Marion’s life into disarray.
If she can’t unravel the mystery behind the House of Hunger’s eerie disappearances, she might soon find herself among the missing.
The Witch and the Vampire by Francesca Flores
As I gazed upon the captivating cover, this book had been lingering on my to-read list for quite some time. The premise revolves around a fateful night when a vampire attack ravages Kaye’s town, leaving her bereft of a mother and Ava without her autonomy. A peculiar twist unfolds as Ava is transformed into a vampire, while her mother succumbs to the same fate. However, Ava’s unique magic serves as the only means to conceal her mother’s true nature, resulting in her captivity.
When their town faces another attack, Ava seizes the opportunity to escape, with Kaye – now a fully trained witch – hot on her heels, driven by a sense of duty to vanquish any vampire threatening her home, including her former friend Ava. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, Kaye successfully convinces Ava that their friendship remains intact and that they should venture into the forest together. But beneath its mystical façade, the forest harbors secrets waiting to be unearthed.
As Kaye delves deeper into this enigmatic world, she begins questioning everything she thought was true about her reality and Ava’s place within it.
The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa
Kagawa’s novel, The Immortal Rules, masterfully employs the chilling trope of Blood Cattle, where vampires rule over a dystopian world, treating humans as livestock. In this dark narrative, the free-range ‘blood cattle’ roam the outer rim of the walled city Fringe, struggling to survive. Allison’s daily quest for sustenance is matched only by her desperate fight against the dangers that lurk in the shadows each night.
However, when death claims Allie and she rises as a vampire, her fate takes an unexpected turn. Forcing her to abandon loved ones and home, Allie joins a group of pilgrims on a perilous journey towards a mysterious destination that may or may not exist. The secrets hidden within this place could alter the course of history, potentially halting the terror that plagues both humans and vampires alike.
Immortal Pleasures by V Castro (2024)
As we conclude our list, one highly anticipated title takes center stage. V. Castro’s forthcoming book, Immortal Pleasures, won’t hit shelves until April next year, but its promise of a dark, sensual, and fantastical take on vampire fiction has already piqued my interest. I’ve pre-ordered my copy, and the wait is proving to be an excruciating one.
Malinalli, a centuries-old vampire, has spent her eternal life traveling the world, reclaiming stolen treasures from conquered peoples, and returning them to their rightful owners. Despite her longings for love and pleasure, she’s remained alone throughout the ages – until now. Her journey takes her to Dublin in pursuit of two stolen Aztec skulls, where she encounters not one but two men who will forever alter her existence.
One mortal, drawn to her rather than repelled by her vampiric nature, and another immortal whose darkness resonates with hers. For those seeking more fang-tastic fare, Book Riot’s archive is a treasure trove of vampire-centric recommendations, featuring the best of the genre, from ‘Neckcessary’ reads like the greatest vampire books of all time to spine-tingling tales that will leave you sleeping with the lights on.