best vampire book reviews

Sink Your Fangs Into Our 20 Favorite Vampire Books

Seminal texts, forgotten classics, and modern reinventions—they're all here, dear bloodthirsty readers.

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

Long before vampires took over our screens, they took over our bookshelves. These creatures of the night have haunted our imaginations for millennia, but it wasn’t until the 1800s that vampires as we know them today entered our literary consciousness. Though works like John Polidori’s “The Vampyre” and Sheridan Le Fanu’s Carmilla popularized these undead bloodsuckers, no work of literature did more to define or influence vampire fiction as Bram Stoker’s Dracula . In that novel, the archetypal rules were set: vampires hate garlic, transform into bats, and can be killed by a wooden stake run through the heart.

Ever since Dracula was published to massive acclaim in 1897, vampire mania has waxed and waned, but it’s never died out entirely (much like vampires themselves). After exploding across the literary canon, vampires went on to colonize film and television; now, they’re a backbone of popular culture, raking in millions of dollars across properties like True Blood, The Vampire Diaries , and Twilight . But just why do we keep coming back to these violent creatures and their violent delights? The late Vampire Chronicles author Anne Rice may have said it best—in an interview, she described the vampire as being “outside of life,” and thus “the greatest metaphor for the outsider in all of us.” Once depicted as the embodiment of ancient evil, now more commonly characterized as charismatic tragic heroes, vampires have indeed come to represent all sorts of outsiders, from the racial other to the queer other. In this genre, we see our own loneliness and our own monstrosity—and our own humanity, too.

Not sure where to start? We’ve rounded up the best and brightest works of vampire fiction to start your journey through the dark and spooky night. Our favorites run the gamut from seminal texts to forgotten classics to modern reinventions. Sink your fangs into all twenty of them—and don’t come crying to us if you make a bloody mess.

Dracula, by Bram Stoker

The granddaddy of all vampire novels has been embraced as genre gospel—so much so that some of Count Dracula’s characteristics, like his hatred of garlic, sunlight, and crucifixes, have become vampire shorthand. But even if the novelty has faded, the story’s familiar pleasures remain: structured in an epistolary format, Stoker’s timeless novel tells of the Transylvanian Count Dracula’s hair-raising quest to infect England with his undead curse. All that stands between his bloodlust and his next meal are a small team of determined men and women, led by prototypical vampire hunter Professor Abraham Van Helsing. Even if you’ve read it before, this ur-text of the genre rewards repeat readings—all these years later, we’re still finding new shades in Dracula , from its anxiety about modernity to its subtext about the racialized other.

imusti Interview with the Vampire, by Anne Rice

Interview With the Vampire , considered by some scholars as the most significant work of vampire literature since Bram Stoker’s Dracula , is a downright fantasia for lovers of literary horror. As told in his own words, this is the ravishing story of Louis de Pointe du Lac, an 18th-century plantation owner who becomes a vampire at the fangs of radiant but mercurial Lestat. When eternal life grows lonely, Louis and Lestat turn an orphaned girl into their undead companion, but the ramifications of condemning an adult woman to eternal life in a child’s body spin out across continents and decades. In this first of fourteen books in her Vampire Chronicles series, Rice crafts a sensual fictive dream of immortality, sex, and power, all of it evoked in luscious prose.

Back Bay Books The Historian, by Elizabeth Kostova

Told through a tapestry of nested narratives, this modern masterpiece investigates the life and legend of Vlad Tepes, the fifteenth-century Romanian prince later mythologized as Dracula. Across time and space, letters and stories, three historians search for Vlad’s tomb: a brainy schoolgirl, her father, and her father’s Oxford advisor, who each have reason to believe that Vlad remains at large in the modern world, undead and dangerous. At once a scholarly detective story and a nail-biting thriller with a growing body count, The Historian is a once-in-a-lifetime reading experience. Surrender to its transporting powers and in no time flat, you’ll be wandering a drafty castle, full of creaking stairs and ancient crypts.

Tor Trade Certain Dark Things, by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

In a neo-noir near future, vampires have become a geopolitical problem: deported from Europe, some have migrated to Central America, where they clash with the many Indigenous vampire species. In Mexico City, human gangs have locked arms to keep vampires out entirely—or so they think. When seventeen-year-old Domingo crosses paths with Atl, a descendent of Aztec vampires who pays for the pleasure of drinking his blood, he’s soon swept up in the city’s supernatural underbelly, where drug-dealing vampires clash in bloody gang war. Certain Dark Things is a pulpy thrill ride, but its real triumph lies in its exploration of the global vampire mythos. Moreno-Garcia considers how vampire folklore differs around the world, imbuing each of her regionalized bloodsuckers with rich cultural specificity.

Vintage Vampires in the Lemon Grove, by Karen Russell

This bright and imaginative collection of short stories contains only one about vampires, but it’s well worth the price of admission. In “Vampires in the Lemon Grove,” Russell introduces Clyde and Magreb, two long-married vampires who’ve spent centuries searching for an alternative to human blood. At long last, they’ve found solace in the sun-drenched Italian village of Sorrento, where they slake their ancient thirst at local lemonade stands. But no idyll can last forever—while worldly Magreb longs to move on, Clyde is unwilling and perhaps unable to change. Spiked with gleeful flights of Russell’s legendary imagination, like vampires clad in sunglasses, "Vampires in the Lemon Grove" reaches beyond its quirky premise to plumb the disappointments of a long marriage, seen by Clyde as "a commitment to starve together." If you’re seduced by this story, consider it your gateway drug to Russell— she may just become your new favorite writer .

Grand Central Publishing Fledgling, by Octavia Butler

In this brain-bending novel from the always-extraordinary Butler, we meet Shori, an injured young amnesiac who soon awakens to the reality of her identity: she is, in fact, a genetically modified vampire. Unlike her bloodsucking brethren, Shori has dark skin, which enables her to walk in the sunlight. As Shori investigates who she is and who tried to kill her, Butler transcends the vampire genre to ask challenging questions about its mythology. Why must so many vampires be white? Why do we romanticize the violations of consent vampires commit against their victims? You’ll never read a vampire novel the same way again after Fledgling .

Carmilla, by Sheridan Le Fanu

Published 25 years before Dracula , Carmilla is the forerunner and antithesis of Stoker’s seminal novel. Where Dracula deals in clear-cut heterosexual dichotomies, Carmilla is an ethereal sapphic romance; where Dracula paints its vampire as the sinister Other, Carmilla ’s vampire is a beautiful stranger. Set amid the Gothic gloom of the Austrian forest, this is the story of Laura, a nobleman’s lonesome daughter whose life changes forever when her father takes in an entrancing and unexpected guest. In Carmilla, Laura finds “a strange and beautiful companion”; meanwhile, young women in the nearby village are succumbing to a mysterious illness. Carmilla’s attack on Laura is one long, feverish seduction, with the erotic tension ratcheting up as the chapters progress. At once a seminal text of queer literature and an enduring influence on modern vampire lore, including Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles , Carmilla is a must-read for any fan of the genre.

Anchor 'Salem's Lot

It’s difficult to believe that Stephen King wrote ‘Salem’s Lot at just 24 years old. Only his second novel, it showcases all the gifts that would later make King a literary legend, from its Lovecraftian horror to its creeping sense of dread. Set in Jerusalem’s Lot, Maine, a small hamlet overtaken by vampires, the novel sees the townspeople come together to defeat an ancient evil housed in an isolated mansion. Peopled with memorable characters and a hair-raising villain, ‘Salem’s Lot is eternally scary—and scary good, too.

Let the Right One In, by John Ajvide Lindqvist

Before it became a film or a television series, Let the Right One In began its life as a chilling novel. In Swedish suburbia, bullied twelve-year-old Oskar’s life changes forever when he meets Eli, the beautiful young girl who moves in next door—and only comes out at night. Through his growing bond with Eli, a centuries-old vampire trapped in the body of a preteen girl, Oskar gains the courage to strike back against his bullies. When Eli’s need to feed leads to tragedy at the hands of her menacing manservant, this bloodsoaked novel reaches fever pitch. Spare and strange, Let the Right One In paints a memorable portrait of vampires as sad, lonely outsiders just going through the motions to survive.

Quirk Books The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires, by Grady Hendrix

Funny, gruesome, and wild, this rollicking novel from horror luminary Grady Hendrix is Desperate Housewives meets Dracula . In suburban Charleston circa 1998, middle-aged Patricia Campbell lives for her book club, where she bonds with like-minded women over true crime. When handsome and mysterious James Harris moves onto Patricia’s block, violent deaths and disappearances follow, leading the book clubbers to believe that James is responsible. They vow to stop James in his tracks—but who will believe a bunch of housewives over a charismatic man? When the ultimate showdown approaches, James and the community learn the consequences of underestimating these women; as Patricia tells us, “He thinks we’re what we look like on the outside: nice Southern ladies. Let me tell you something: there’s nothing nice about Southern ladies.” Rich in satire and horror alike, this novel has sharp fangs.

The Pale Lady, by Alexandre Dumas

“The human voice is seldom heard in these regions,” Dumas writes of the Carpathian Mountains, where the characters of The Pale Lady roam among misty monasteries and drafty castles, all of it “shrouded in eternal snow.” Atmospheric and eerie, the novella’s drama concerns Hedwig, a Polish maiden adored by two brothers—one of whom happens to be a possessive vampire “whose only law was his passions.” The Pale Lady is one of the first vampire stories set in eastern Europe, a landscape that would later become all but synonymous with the genre. Steeped in superstition, folklore, and Gothic gloom, it’s a thrilling fable about women taking the violence of men into their own hands.

Woman, Eating, by Claire Kohda

My Year of Rest and Relaxation meets Milk Fed in this slacker comedy about Lydia, a multiracial Gen Z vampire suffering an identity crisis. Fresh out of art school and eager to make a new life for herself in London, Lydia soon gets a harsh reality check: her gallery internship is unfulfilling, her crush is dating someone else, and her supply of pig's blood is running dangerously low. Ravenous and lonesome, she becomes addicted to watching #WhatIEatInADay videos, desperate for the embodied connection to food and life that humans experience. But for this yearning young vampire, self-acceptance won’t come until she finds something (or someone) to eat. Thoughtful and thrilling, Woman, Eating makes a meal of themes like cultural alienation, disordered eating, and the growing pains of adulthood.

City Lights Publishers The Gilda Stories, by Jewelle Gomez

When author and activist Jewelle Gomez set out to write “a lesbian-feminist interpretation of vampires,” her critics argued that a vampire novel couldn’t succeed without “a charming serial killer” as its protagonist. But Gomez proved them wrong—thirty years later, her big-hearted novel about the many lives of a Black lesbian vampire remains an enduring classic. The Gilda Stories opens in 1850s Louisiana, when a runaway slave girl is rescued and raised by two vampire brothel owners. Upon her coming-of-age, young Gilda agrees to “share the blood.” Told in vignettes that pinball across time and space, the novel follows the next two-hundred years of Gilda’s life as she bears witness to social change and seeks answers about her authentic self. Beautifully crafted and often downright prophetic, The Gilda Stories is a deeply hopeful, moral, and multicultural study of vampire life—a true (and welcome) departure from much of the genre.

Harper Voyager My Soul to Keep, by Tananarive Due

If you liked Interview With the Vampire , you’ll fall hard for My Soul to Keep , another lush, atmospheric novel rich in supernatural lore and human drama. Investigative reporter Jessica Wolde thinks she has it all, but her devoted husband David, affectionately nicknamed “Mr. Perfect,” isn’t who he seems. David is actually Dawit, a 500-year-old member of an Ethiopian community that traded their humanity for immortality. When danger closes in from his undead brethren, David will do anything to save Jessica and their daughter, including sharing the gift of immortality—whether they want it or not. You won’t find a traditional vampire tale here (instead of blood-drinking, we have immortality passed down through blood), but you will find a dark and delicious melodrama about love, possession, and control.

Anno Dracula, by Kim Newman

This pulpy thriller reads like a Gothic Literature Multiverse. Anno Dracula finds its setting in a simple premise: what if, at the end of Bram Stoker’s Dracula , Jonathan Harker and Professor Van Helsing lost? After murdering Van Helsing, Dracula takes Queen Victoria as his bride; together, they rule over London circa 1888, where familiar villains like Jack the Ripper, Fu Manchu, and Lord Ruthven run amok in a city dominated by vampires. To depose the violent vampire regime, spy Charles Beauregarde and vampire Geneviève Dieudonné team up with unlikely allies including Mycroft Holmes and Professor Moriarty. In this gleeful dash through the Victorian era, Newman weaves a delicious alternate history.

Bantam Fevre Dream, by George R.R. Martin

Before Martin hit it big with Game of Thrones, he wrote this modern classic of vampire literature, described by critics and the author himself as “Bram Stoker meets Mark Twain.” In the antebellum South, an unlikely partnership forms between Abner Marsh, an ambitious river captain, and Joshua York, a wealthy interloper who offers to bankroll Marsh’s ingenious new steamboat. There’s just one condition: York demands that Marsh ask no questions about his odd behaviors and peculiar guests. When Marsh learns the truth about York’s dark nature, he’s forced to reconsider the moral score of his worldview. Transporting and visceral, Fevre Dream is a worthy entry to the vampire canon.

Grand Central Publishing Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter, by Seth Grahame-Smith

Grindhouse horror meets the Civil War in this alternate history of Honest Abe, reimagined as a legendary vampire slayer. After Lincoln’s mother dies from a supernatural assault when her son is nine years old, the future president vows, “I hereby resolve to kill every vampire in America.” Wielding his trusty ax alongside a motley crew of companions, including the president’s real-life wrestling buddy Jack Armstrong and a gloomy young writer named Edgar Poe, Lincoln’s bloody path through the American undead leads him all the way to the White House and the Civil War. Come for the gore, but stay for the history lesson—Grahame-Smith is as passionate a researcher as they come.

Dalkey Archive Press Vlad, by Carlos Fuentes

Bram Stoker’s Dracula continues in Mexico City with the “awful adventure” of lawyer Yves Navarro, Fuentes’ modern-day analogue for Stoker’s Jonathan Harker. When Yves meets Vlad, an emigré in need of a home, he enlists his beautiful wife Asunción as his client’s real estate agent. After she procures a Bauhaus villa in a stylish district of Mexico City, a fast friendship forms between the couple and Vlad, but as anyone who’s read Dracula knows, Yves is about to lose everything to the vampire who’s come to steal his life. At once a sly continuation of Stoker’s novel and a sharp criticism of the Mexican bourgeoisie, Vlad is a fantastic follow-up to the ur-text of vampire literature.

Lulu.com The Dead Woman in Love, by Théophile Gauthier

Published in 1836, The Dead Woman in Love (also known by its French title, La Morte Amoureuse ) is one of the earliest works of literature to feature a vampiric femme fatale. Set in provincial France, Gauthier’s slow-burning story unspools the seduction of Romuald, a young man lured away from priesthood by the beautiful and enigmatic Clarimonde. When Romuald is summoned to a castle to perform Clarimonde’s last rites, he learns that this is not the first time Clarimonde has died—nor will it be the last. Ravishing and romantic, this story of love unbound by death casts a lingering spell.

imusti The Moth Diaries, by Rachel Klein

Shirley Jackson meets Sylvia Plath in this haunted tale of obsession, jealousy, and madness. At a posh all-girls boarding school, a nameless sixteen-year-old is tormented by the growing bond between her ex-best friend and a new student, Ernessa. When a classmate is found dead after falling from the roof of her dormitory, our narrator suspects that Ernessa pushed her, convinced as she is that Ernessa must be a vampire. Told in a breathless narrative voice wracked with claustrophobia and paranoia, The Moth Diaries charts our narrator’s dizzying descent into madness as she searches for the truth about Ernessa—and begins to question her own reality. Consider this a worthy descendent of Carmilla .

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} Books

Reintroducing T.J. Newman

James Baldwin, Remembered by His Nephews

The Best Books of 2024 (So Far)

We Need Speculative Fiction Now More Than Ever

Shop The Best Prime Day Deals on Amazon Kindles

The 75 Best Sci-Fi Books of All Time

The Second Coming of the Sports Novel

The Napkin Project: Summer Vacation Edition

The Napkin Project: Sloane Crosley

The Napkin Project: Charles Yu

The Napkin Project: Laura van den Berg

Join Discovery, the new community for book lovers

Trust book recommendations from real people, not robots 🤓

Blog – Posted on Thursday, Mar 07

33 best vampire books to sink your teeth into.

From the reported reboot of Buffy the Vampire Slayer to the explosive success of Twilight, there’s no question about it: vampires are “in” right now. At once dangerous, bloodthirsty, and sensual, vampires are the perfect villains to mesmerize both protagonists and readers.

But there’s much more to this burgeoning genre than just Edward Cullen. Hopefully, this post will show you the exciting depth and rippling complexity of vampires in fiction. Read on for 30+ of the best vampire books for you to devour.

1. Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Domingo is a mere street kid. Atl is an ancient vampire with ties to a tribe from the Aztec Empire. So it certainly complicates things when Atl comes across Domingo and sees a tasty snack, whereas Domingo looks at Atl and is immediately infatuated. Then there’s the small matter of the vampire gangsters who are dogging both of their heels — and the cop who ends up chasing them by accident. It’s a recipe for some really bloody danger, one that  Certain Dark Things  serves up with appetizers of gusto, rich folklore, and breathless action.

2. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

You know the feeling: you’re just minding your own business, making a regular trip to the library for your research, when you unwittingly end up summoning a horde of supernatural creatures. What’s a young scholar like Diana Bishop to do? Well, the key to this spectacle probably starts and ends in the mysterious book that she found deep in the shelves of Oxford’s Bodleian Library,  Ashmole 782 . But the problem is that she wants nothing to do with it — seeing as she’s a witch herself.  A Discovery of Witches  is a spellbinding debut, and a must-read for all vampire-loving bibliophiles.

Looking for something new to read?

Trust real people, not robots, to give you book recommendations.

Or sign up with an email address

3. Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin

If you only know GRRM as the creator of this decade’s juggernaut,  Game of Thrones , brace yourself for a tale of vampirism that is equally gory and fascinating.  Fevre Dream  is GRRM’s story about a struggling riverboat captain who’s approached one day by a prospective business partner. But little does Abner Marsh know that he is entering a pact with repercussions for all of mankind, even as he begins to suspect that his client — a mysterious aristocrat who is suspiciously pale — is not all that he seems.

4. ’Salem’s Lot by Stephen King

Something terrible made Jerusalem’s Lot what it is today: a small ghost town in Maine with a dwindling population. What caused the original inhabitants to succumb to this evil power so many years ago? And what does it all have to do with the newest resident, who still lives quietly in ‘Salem’s Lot? Though  ‘Salem’s Lot  was only Stephen King’s second novel, it carries all the hallmarks that crowned him the king of horror:  breathless twists , a tightly-paced plot, and a creeping dread that will steal up on you with every turn of the page.

5. Dracula by Bram Stoker

In a land far, far away, a centuries-old count seeks to cross Europe to conquer Britain, through the power of his own blood. In London, a small group of human beings, led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing, prepare to meet him — and destroy him. If you haven’t yet, it’s time to step into the land of Transylvania and enter a crumbling castle to meet  Dracula :  the legendary novel that first indelibly imprinted the modern vampire onto the public consciousness.

6. Fat White Vampire Blues by Andrew Fox

Jules Duchon isn’t your average vampire. To be more specific, he weighs 450 pounds and isn’t sexy in the slightest (no thanks to the fatty blood of the New Orleans folks that he drinks). Now he must contend with a new vampire in his neighborhood — and this new guy named Malice X is young, cocky, and bloodthirsty. Rest assured, it isn’t easy being a vampire in New Orleans, which the delightful romp of  Fat White Vampire Blues  shows in spades and stakes.

7. Let the Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist

In  Let the Right One In , it is autumn 1981 in Blackeberg, Sweden. Oskar is a twelve-year-old boy who’s been bullied every day of his life. Eli is the girl who’s just moved in next door. But this isn’t the beginning of your everyday YA romance, because Eli might not be a  someone  so much as a  something . Atmospheric and beautifully rendered, this Swedish sensation was adapted into a movie that quickly accumulated the same accolades that the book did.  

8. The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

A sparkling debut novel by Elizabeth Kostova,  The Historian  is the story of one young woman who discovers something curious in her father’s library: the remnants of a centuries-old hunt for an  ancient, legendary ruler . Now she must decide whether or not to take up the gauntlet, even though it will bring her face-to-face with the chilling question that has brought ruin to every historian who’s tried to answer it: who truly is Vlad the Impaler?

9. I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

One of the most influential books in this genre,  I Am Legend  introduced readers to Robert Neville: the last man standing in a world overcome by a virus that turns humans into vampires. Now Neville has to fend off both the bacteria and the infected creatures who threaten him on his doorstep every night. To say any more would be to spoil it for you, but rest assured that the ending is sure to leave a deep impression on your mind, as has for millions of readers since its release in 1954.

10. Fledgling by Octavia Butler

Lauded upon publication, Octavia E. Butler’s last novel is a masterful tour de force in science fiction.  Fledgling  is the story of Shori Matthews: a 10-year-old girl who discovers that she is actually a 53-year old vampire. But her determination to fight her amnesia leads her on a breathtaking and traumatic journey to find out who she is — and who so dearly wants her dead.

11. Vampire$ by John Steakley

Vampire$, Inc. is your regular money-making business: if you pay its fees, it will hunt down vampires for you. That is, until something goes awry at a party and all of its employees are slaughtered in return. Now only Jack Crow, the leader of Vampire$, Inc., remains alive — and needless to say, he’s out for revenge. Discover for yourself why  Vampire$,  the perfect marriage of vampirism and hard-boiled noir, is a cult classic among its dedicated fans.

12. Interview with a Vampire by Anne Rice

This book holds all the confessions of a vampire: from the moment that Louis was bitten, to his struggles to survive in New Orleans, to the day that he decides to turn young Claudia. More than that, it’s a book that changed the public perception of vampires when it was first published in 1976, asking its readers to find empathy for the monsters themselves. Beautifully innovative and darkly sensual,  Interview with a Vampire  is quite simply a story that revived an entire genre.

13. Carpe Jugulum by Terry Pratchett

It’s the first rule that any respectable king should know:  whatever you do, don’t invite the Magpyrs to the party . So what happens when King Verence, in a moment of inspired generosity, goes ahead and does it — and now these despicable, garlic-eating vampires shan’t leave the castle? One of Britain’s most beloved humorists, Terry Pratchett enters the realm of vampires wielding his ever-sharp satire. At the end of the day, there’s nothing else to do but say “ Carpe Jugulum ” to yourself, and read this book.

14. Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton

Welcome to the city of St. Louis! It’s Anita Blake’s turf, as a professional vampire hunter and necromancer: someone whose job is to slay the undead when things get out of hand. She’s the best in her line of work, which means that she interacts with a lot of creatures — most particularly, one Jean-Claude, the master vampire whom she must consult when she’s asked to investigate a series of vampire murders. Unfortunately, she’s also terribly attracted to him. If you like your vampires with a dose of sexiness (and some tough detective work),  Guilty Pleasures  is for you.

15. Way of the Wolf by E.E. Knight

Vampirism meets the good old Western in  Way of the Wolf , the first book in the wildly popular  Vampire Earth  series. The year is 2065, the setting is Louisiana — and our rulers are the bloodthirsty Reapers, who have seized control of the entire planet. But a resistance grows in the shadows: one that will be led by Lieutenant David Valentine, who intends to exact revenge on the Reapers, even if it’s the last thing that he does.

16. The Vampyre by John William Polidori

Published in 1819 (before even Bram Stoker’s  Dracula ), this book might be the birth of the vampire in fiction. Certainly it was the one of the earlier originators of the romantic vampire mythos, as it explores the friendship between a gentleman by the name of Aubrey and the enigmatic aristocrat who goes by Lord Ruthven. Though it’s a short work, John William Polidori’s  The Vampyre  paved the way for the genre’s later giants to emerge onto the scene.

17. Carmilla by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

One of the earliest works of vampire fiction is also one of the most original for its time. In Sheridan le Fanu’s  gothic masterpiece , a young woman is unknowingly the object of obsession for none other than the title character, an ancient vampire who only goes by  Carmilla . What’s more, her desire might just take them both straight to the grave. Published in 1872, it is a fascinating window into a time when vampire mythology — and all that it encompasses — was still being dreamt up.

18. The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan

Yes, this is written by  that  Guillermo Del Toro, the Oscar-winning director of multiple beloved movies. With  The Strain , he proves his knack for storytelling far beyond the silver screen, as he dives into the tale of a vampiric virus that has begun to overwhelm the streets of New York — and the confusion and horror that it wreaks. Yet beyond this seemingly simple story is Del Toro’s famously human touch as he handles the “transformation” of a person to a monster with empathetic care.

19. Some of Your Blood by Theodore Sturgeon

From one of the godfathers of modern science fiction comes  Some of Your Blood , an epistolary novel about a soldier who comes home a little… strange. He’s referred to the Army psychiatrist, who asks him to write his story down. The result is this shocking and strange collection of letters, transcripts, and case studies. A short novel, it nevertheless packs an outsize punch — or should we say bite?

20. Dracula Unbound by Brian Wilson Aldiss

Under the dying sun of Utah, Joe Bodenland stumbles upon a horrifying discovery: an ancient grave that points to a monstrous species of humans, who once walked the land alongside the dinosaurs. Now Joe must use his time machine to do nothing less than prevent a seemingly inevitable future in which  homo sapiens  are enslaved under the immortal rule of Lord Dracula, who is inconveniently planning to rise again. Though many have tried to adapt the story of Dracula, Aldiss accomplishes it the most masterfully in  Dracula Unbound .

21. Children of the Night by Dan Simmons

When a research team travels to Romania on a medical mission, they’re pretty shocked to discover a child in an orphanage whose immune system might be the key to curing cancer and AIDS. The baby is named Joshua, and he was given the wrong blood transfusion in the middle of a deadly illness. But now his mere existence might also bring a clan older than time out from the shadows… Vividly imagined and altogether thrilling,  Children of the Night  is a must-read that turns the vampire mythos on its head.

22. Fangland by John Marks

Evangeline Harker, a producer for a popular news show, is sent to Transylvania on a business trip that cannot go more wrong… not least because she doesn’t return for a very, very long time. And when she  does  come back, she seems like a different person altogether. Also, why are coffin-like boxes appearing in her office? And what does this have to do with Torgu, the notorious criminal that she was supposed to interview in Transylvania? Darkly funny, ever satirical, and compulsively readable,  Fangland  delivers more than the bite that it promises.

23. The Passage by Justin Cronin

When the top-secret product of a military experiment is leaked at a secret U.S. government facility, the world as we know it changes — and the resulting carnage gives rise to a breed of monsters called the Walkers.  The Passage  is the story of the survivors and their struggle to remain human, in the face of enormous danger and utter  in humanity. As the book’s tagline ominously intones: “Thirty-two minutes for one world to die, another to be born.”

24. They Thirst by Robert McCammon

In the modern-day Los Angeles that  They Thirst  evocatively renders, evil descends slowly at first: one body here, another there. But then the body count racks up — and all of the murders seem to be occurring at night. The clues all point to a dark power who is older than time and his legion of followers. But what’s even more ominous is the  amount  that they thirst… for theirs is a thirst that can never be quenched.

25. The Keep by F. Paul Wilson

In  The Keep , it's the middle of World War II and a faction of German troops is sent to a lonely keep in the Transylvanian Alps to protect their territory. It seems like a simple order at first — until Captain Woermann’s men begin turning up dead in the morning, with their throats terribly disfigured. No human being could commit these acts of violence, and no human being can even hope to remedy the situation... or can he?  With the tension heightened  by the war in the backdrop, the forces of good and evil combine in this book of pure horror.

26. Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Meet Sookie Stackhouse: a quiet, unassuming waitress from the small town of Bon Temps, Louisiana. She’s just a normal girl — except that she can read minds. Oh, and she’s dating a vampire. As you might expect, that creates a couple of problems on its own, especially when a number of dead bodies start appearing and fingers start pointing. The perfect blend of comedy, action, and romance,  Dead Until Dark  is the novel that inspired HBO’s award-winning  True Blood .

27. Sunshine by Robin McKinley

In the post-Voodoo Wars world of  Sunshine , Rae Seddon (aka Sunshine) is a pastry baker who  just needs a break  from the hustle and bustle of downtown New Arcadia. And she sure gets one when she makes the huge mistake of getting kidnapped by the vampires. By the time she’s brought to stand before a surprisingly hunky vampire named Constantine, she’ll have to use all of her wits to stay alive in this enthralling novel from one of fantasy’s most trusted names.

28. Vlad by Carlos Fuentes

Before any other vampire, there was Vlad the Impaler: the towering and shadowy figure in the annals of history, whose mere existence inspired Bram Stoker to create  Dracula . That said, this tongue-in-cheek continuation of Vlad’s story could only have been written by Carlos Fuentes — for now  Vlad  wishes to establish dominion over the land of Mexico. But first, he needs to go house-hunting, which means dealing with the (gasp) bourgeoisie and, most particularly, run-of-the-mill real estate agents.

29. The Vampire Tapestry by Suzy McKee Charnas

By day, Dr. Edward Lewis Weyland is a professor. But by night, he’s a vampire, and though he didn’t acquire his powers through supernatural means — his condition is biologic — his need to feed upon human blood hasn’t changed. Through four episodic chapters, we see how this urge manifests and how he tries still to interact with society. Suspenseful prose, tight plotting, and the charismatic vampire at the center of it all will compel readers to sink their teeth into  The Vampire Tapestry .

30. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

Re-familiarize yourself with Abraham Lincoln: savior of the Union, greatest President of the United States, and sworn hunter of all vampires. When he found out about the true reason behind his mother’s death, Lincoln promised to avenge her — and documented it all in his journals, which were discovered later by Grahame-Smith. Though admittedly this secret was hidden for centuries,  Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter  is the book that — for the first time in history — sheds light on Lincoln’s courageous fight against the undead and how it shaped the history of America.

31. Vampire Hunter D by Hideyuki Kikuchi

The world as we know it has ended in the year 12,090 A.D. For three hundred years, vampires have ruled the world, and the war that humans have staged against their dominion has all but failed. Now there are only a few survivors, and even fewer Hunters — the warriors who have sworn revenge upon the vampiric Nobility. But one Hunter named D may be the key to humanity’s salvation… until it turns out that he  himself  may be a vampire. Originally written in Japanese and translated into English,  Vampire Hunter D  is a pulpy vampire book with  incredible worldbuilding  that turned it into a worldwide phenomenon.

32. Black Sun Rising by C.S. Friedman

If you like your vampires with a delicious side of science fiction and fantasy,  Black Sun Rising  is the book for you. In an indeterminate time in the future, human beings have settled on the planet Erna. To their horror, however, they find that the planet is inhabited by the fae: a dark force that eats people’s minds alive. Now it’s up to four people — Priest, Adept, Apprentice, and Sorcerer — to go on a mission to defeat this unknown enemy and make uneasy alliances with other supernatural beings. Unhappily, they might just disturb the balance of the universe forever.

33. Agyar by Steven Brust

A lost young man appears one day in a small midwestern town. He calls himself Jack Agyar, but he doesn’t quite seem as though he belongs. One of the most unique books in the genre,  Agyar  unfolds through the eyes of this ageless being. You won’t see the word “vampire” appear once on its pages ­— perhaps for good reason. For Jack Agyar is the isolated, struggling “Other” who is irrevocably lost in our modern world, to whom no one ever thought to reveal the price of immortality.

Want more spooky reads? Check out our favorite horror books here . Or, if you prefer "steamy" to "scary," we've got a roundup of great paranormal romance books here !

Continue reading

More posts from across the blog.

22 Best Dr. Seuss Books: the Essential Shelf for All Readers

Everyone, at some point or age, has read Dr. Seuss. To open one of his books is to step into an impossibly vivid world of creativity. In fact, the most iconic name in children’s literature began as a pen name: Theodor Seuss Geisel adopted it while writing for Dar...

The 30 Best YA Fantasy Books for Teens

Fantasy is a (literally) magical genre — and a great coping mechanism for not-so-magical times like, say, adolescence. However, even if you're no longer a young adult...

10 Fantastic World War II Books by Female Authors

This post was contributed by Reedsy Discover reviewer Lou Hurrell. Come September it will be 80 years...

Heard about Reedsy Discovery?

Or sign up with an

Or sign up with your social account

• Submit your book
• Reviewer directory

We made a writing app for you

Yes, you! Write. Format. Export for ebook and print. 100% free, always.

The Best Vampire Books to Read, Besides Twilight

Though, of course that series is on here.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

The below vampire books are inventive, and often believable, with an array of authors creating their own evocative series that give depth to the blood-thirsty. We've found some of the most celebrated vampire books, from romance and horror, to fantasy classics and young adult novels , that will send a chill down your spine and have you turning those pages faster than you can say "Team Edward or Team Jacob?" To continue your paranormal binge-read, check out books featuring witches and werewolves next. Regardless of which book you choose, you may want to consider sleeping with the lights on.

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

Adapted into the 1994 film starring Kirsten Dunst, Tom Cruise, and Brad Pitt, this '76 classic follows the spellbinding life story of a centuries old vampire.

Sunshine by Robin McKinley

Rae, also known as Sunshine, is the head baker at her family's popular café. But she needs a break, and heads out to her waterside cabin to relax. It's at the lake that the "Others" creep up on Sunshine when she least expects it. 

Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin

Yes,  Fevre Dream  is written by  Game of Thrones 's George R.R. Martin, but this novel takes place in a completely different world than Westeros. River boat captain  Abner Marsh is approached by a peculiar aristocrat about a job that sounds too good to be true. But after he warily accepts, and sails the Mississippi River in the brutal winter in 1857, he soon discovers the true nature of his mission.

Dark Lover by J.R. Ward

Ward's massive 19-part Black Dagger Brotherhood paranormal romance series starts out with Wrath, a reluctant leader of elite vampire warriors and the last living pure breed of his kind. He soon meets Beth, a newly transitioned half-vampire with whom he has an intense and passionate connection.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

One day while exploring her father's library, a young woman discovers a series of letters that reveal a labyrinth of dark secrets about her parents, and a hidden world that goes back centuries. They specifically focus on the folklore surrounding Vlad the Impaler, a medieval ruler who inspired the story of Dracula.

Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

If vampires roamed the earth, what would society  really  be like? Silvia Moreno-Garcia answers this question in stunning detail in her novel  Certain Dark Things . The book's version of Mexico City is one of the few places to outlaw vampires. The rest of the world is home to warring clans of legitimately scary bloodsuckers who perceive humans as, well—dinner. In this world, a vampire named Atl and a street cleaner named Domingo forge an unlikely bond. Expect a blend of Mexican folklore, vampire myth reduxes, and a fast-paced trip through an intricately built world. 

Guilty Pleasures: An Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Novel

Okay, you're in for a ride if you start this beloved series because it has a whopping  27  books. Anita Blake is St. Louis's fiercest vampire huntress, but an assignment to solve the mystery behind a slew of killings forces her to confront her feeling for her nemesis, vampire leader Jean-Claude.

Already Dead by Charlie Huston

Already Dead  follows the adventures of Joe Pitt, a Manhattan vampire who's investigating a fierce zombie epidemic that's taken over the city.

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix

In 1990's Charleston, the only thing stay-at-home mom Patricia has to look forward to is her true crime book club. One day after a meeting, Patricia is attacked by a neighbor, leading her to meet his handsome nephew James, whose charm hides a sinister secret.

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Backed by another fiercely loyal fanbase, the Sookie Stackhouse series–aka the books that inspired HBO's  True Blood— follows Sookie, a small town Southern Belle who can read minds. That is, until she meets the mysterious Bill Compton, an alluring newcomer with a dark secret.

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

After being on the run, Rose and her best friend Lissa, a vampire princess, are forced to return to vampire boarding school, St. Vladimir's Academy. Rose is tasked with being Lissa's bodyguard, but as they become enmeshed in romance and the drama surrounding the school's cliques, Rose must also fight to save Lissa from the ruthless Strigoi.

Orb Books The Vampire Tapestry by Suzy McKee Charnas

This unusual tale follows Edward Weyland, an anthropology professor whose vampirism is biological rather than paranormal. He attempts to not kill his prey, while coming to terms with his disdain for humans and attempting to find the truth about what he truly is.

Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler

Fledgling , by the incomparable Octavia Butler, reflects on race and sexuality through a unique story. A 10-year-old with amnesia makes the surprising discovery that she's actually a 53-year-old vampire. She fights to recover her memories in order to save herself and those she cares for.

The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez

After escaping slavery in 1850s Louisiana, Gilda is inducted into the world of the undead while working at a brothel. For the next 200 years, Gilda searches for true love and a place to call home.

The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda

Somehow Gene has been able to hide that fact that he's not like the others around him (read: he's not a vampire). But as one of the last remaining humans, he must keep his secret in order to survive. However, his careful facade is threatened with the opportunity of a lifetime and—of course—a girl.

The Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith

You're probably familiar with the hit CW TV show that was inspired by this four-part book series. The novels follow popular high schooler Elena Gilbert who falls into a tumultuous romance with vampire Stefan Salvatore—and we can't forget his trouble-making brother Damon.

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer

The famous (or infamous)  Twilight  saga which spawned five films, and a cult following of fanatic "Twihards," tells the story of Bella Swan, a regular teenage girl who finds herself intwined in the vampire world when she falls hard for the alluring Edward Cullen. The latest,  Midnight Sun , told from Edward's perspective, came out in 2020. 

Carmilla by J. Sheridan Lefanu

This 1876 Gothic novella inspired the celebrated classic  Dracula , and is narrated by a young woman who finds herself falling victim to the advances of a female vampire named Carmilla.

Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon

In the first installment of this sexy 27-book series, vampire warrior Kyrian wakes up handcuffed to something that's against everything he stands for: Amanda, a conservative  human  accountant. But when it becomes obvious he must fight to protect her from evil, Kyrian begins to fall in love.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

This classic 1897 Gothic horror novel is  the  ultimate vampire tale, as it follows Dracula on his quest to move from Transylvania to England in order to spread the curse of the undead.

McKenzie Jean-Philippe is the editorial assistant at OprahMag.com covering pop culture, TV, movies, celebrity, and lifestyle. She loves a great Oprah viral moment and all things Netflix—but come summertime, Big Brother has her heart. On a day off you'll find her curled up with a new juicy romance novel.

Halloween 2022

35 Fabulous Family Halloween Costumes

75 Funny Couples Halloween Costumes

Easy Pumpkin Carving Ideas

The Most Frightening Halloween Movies on Netflix

22 of the Scariest Horror Movies in Black Cinema

The Spookiest Ghost Stories

13 Surprisingly Wearable Black Lipsticks

15 Pumpkin-Scented Candles That Smell Like Pie

Fun Virtual Murder Mystery Party Ideas

The Wittiest Instagram Captions for Halloween

40 To-Die-For Halloween Party Themes

Sink your teeth into one of these great reads.

Dracula . Interview with the Vampire . Twilight . More than 200 years after John Polidori’s gothic novel ignited our fascination with bloodsucking immortals, readers still can’t get enough of vampire fiction .

If you’re searching for your next favorite story of seduction, horror novel, literary interpretation, dark romance , or urban fantasy, you’ve come to the right place: at least one of the vampire books included below is sure to fit the bill. We’ve gone wide with everything from classics, new additions, and under-read phenoms. Sure, you’ve probably heard of Octavia E. Butler’s Fledgling , but what about Jewelle Gomez’s time-hopping epic, The Gilda Stories , or Claire Kohda’s literary vampire novel, Woman, Eating ?

The books below run the gamut from YA to erotica, and from more unconventional tales to clear and deserving Twilight heirs . You’ll find no fewer than three Dracula retellings below, where ancient immortals and eternal Victorians sharpen their fangs alongside the modern-day deathless. Meet a prince racing against the clock to solve a string of palace murders, an Aztec vampire on the run with her thrall in the dimly lit corners and alleyways of contemporary Mexico City. And visit a boarding school for immortals, interested loft apartments, and extravagant castles — all occupied by, you guessed it, vampires!

Scroll down to check out the 42 best vampire books to read now.

1 Youngblood by Sasha Laurens

Youngblood is a young adult novel about a queer girl attending a boarding school for vampires. (Yes, that’s a lot of premises rolled into one, but it works. Promise.) Her world begins to unravel when their synthetic blood supply is infected with a vampire-killing virus, and things start to go wrong at the school.

2 Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard

New York Times bestselling author Victoria Aveyard delivers a saucy vampire story about power, desire, and betrayals. In this novel, the world is split into two social groups: The common Red Blood who live in servitude, and the Silver Blood elite, who have supernatural skills. The main character, a lowly Red Blood, finds herself among the Silver Bloods — with a magic of her own.

3 Let the Right One In by John Alvide Lindqvist, translated by Ebba Segerberg

The award-winning Swedish film, the U.S. film adaptation, and the recent Showtime series are all based on this international best-seller. The novel begins in suburban Sweden, where a teenager’s body is found drained of blood. The community falls into turmoil, and some begin to wonder: Is a new girl, who only comes out at night, at the root of this new mystery?

4 Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin

The author behind the Game of Thrones series also wrote a book about wealthy aristocratic vampires, set on a steamboat crossing the Mississippi River. Fevre Dream follows a vampire who dreams of uniting his people with humans and the down-on-his-luck captain he enlists to help him.

5 This Blood That Binds Us by S. L. Cokeley

After a camping trip is interrupted by a vampire attack, two young adults find themselves dealing with new lusts, ethical quandaries, and a desire for both normalcy and greatness. As they navigating the vampire world, both learn about the complexities — and conflicting obligations — of friendship and family.

6 Court of the Vampire Queen by Katee Robert

The author of Neon Gods — a belovd spicy romance that reimagines a Greek myth — has also dabbled in the vampire genre. Court of the Vampire Queen follows Mina, a half-human-half-vampire who was cast aside by her father, the king. Unfortunately for him, he’s inadvertently placed her beside the man who’ll help her find her power.

7 The Vampire Tapestry by Suzy Charnas

The main character of The Vampire Tapestry — a thinky vampire novel, if you will — is a professor who attempts to compartmentalize his life as a vampire. He’s particularly empathetic with the humans he preys upon, but that might not be enough to make him change his ways

8 Angels’ Blood

With 15 primary novels and dozens of ancillary texts to date, Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series has plenty for paranormal romance fans to devour. The story begins in 2009’s Angels’ Blood , when the imposing Archangel Raphael hires Elena, a vampire hunter, to track down one of Raphael’s own kind.

9 The Beautiful

Set under the looming shadow of the yellow fever epidemic, Renée Ahdieh’s The Beautiful centers on Celine, a 17-year-old Parisian dressmaker. Celine takes shelter in a New Orleans, Louisiana convent rather than let herself be seduced by the bright lights of the big city. But when one of the other girls at the convent is murdered by a serial killer, Celine throws herself into an investigation that will reveal the truth about the crimes... and about herself, as well.

10 Better Off Red

Lesbian vampire erotica? Say no more. In Rebekah Weatherspoon’s Better Off Red , a no-nonsense college freshman joins the alluring sisters of the Alpha Beta Omega house, only to learn that they’re actually a cult devoted to six vampiric demons. Enamored with the vampire queen, Ginger stays in the sorority circle, but can she protect the ones she loves when trouble arrives at their doorstep?

11 Black Sun Rising

The first book in C.S. Friedman’s Coldfire trilogy, Black Sun Rising follows Damien, a priest tasked with helping other humans tap into the planet’s stores of magic. He’s soon sidetracked, however, when his lover falls victim to a brutal attack. She once could see the magic in the world, but now that her abilities have been taken away from her, she begins to lose her will to live.

12 The Blood Prince of Langkasuka

In this retelling of the Malaysian legend of Raja Bersiong, the Fanged King, the 17-year-old crown prince of Langkasuka is turned into a vampire, and finds his palace plagued by a spate of deaths soon thereafter. As he prepares to marry the princess of his dreams, the prince races to discover who’s behind the violence. But what if it’s the newly minted vampire himself?

13 Blue Bloods

In Melissa de la Cruz’s YA series, vampires have quietly lived in the United States for centuries. The bloodsuckers have wielded enormous influence over the country, all the while managing to keep their deadly secret under wraps. But now, a teenager is dead. Another has broken out in a rash of blue veins. And nothing will ever be the same again.

14 Certain Dark Things

First published in 2016 and headed for a rerelease in September 2021, Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s Certain Dark Things sees Mexico City street urchin Domingo fall into a web of deadly intrigue and suspense. The people of the capital are supposed to be safe from the warring vampire gangs, but Domingo realizes that may not be the case when he meets Atl — the heir to a vampiric Aztec legacy, on the run from a bloodthirsty drug cartel.

Heads up, Twihards! If you miss Bella, Edward, and the rest of the Forks crew, you’re going to want to pick up Crave : the first installment in Tracey Wolff’s paranormal YA series. After her parents are killed in a tragic accident, Grace relocates to Alaska, where her uncle oversees an elite boarding school for powerful, non-human teenagers. As the only mortal to walk Katmere’s hallowed halls, Grace receives a less-than-warm welcome from her classmates. Things seem to be looking up when she falls for Jaxon, a charismatic teen vampire, but does she have what it takes to be part of his world? More importantly, does she even want to?

16 Dark Tarot

This is the 31st installment in Christine Feehan’s long-running Dark series, but don’t let that intimidate you; this book is the perfect introduction for newcomers to the series. The story here centers on Sandu, a vampire hunter who must find his soulmate before he turns into a feral bloodsucker himself. His salvation comes in the form of Adalasia, a demon hunter and tarot reader who was literally born to be his partner. But Sandu’s missing some memories, and he’ll have to recover them to complete his mission.

17 Dead Collections

A queer, trans vampire story? Yes, please! Dead Collections follows Sol, a trans fanfic author-turned-archivist who lives with clinical vampirism — a disease that requires him to stay away from sunlight and receive regular blood transfusions. When Elsie, the widow of his old fandom’s creator, arrives at Sol’s workplace to donate her late wife’s papers, Sol begins a journey of self-exploration… and falls for Elsie along the way.

18 Die by the Drop

The first book in Kaia Bennett’s Shivers and Sins series centers on Evie, a young woman captured by a trio of vampires who find her witch blood intoxicating. Two of Evie’s captors have forgotten what it was like to be human, but it’s their leader, the truly monstrous Jesse, who is the most terrifying. This is as dark as dark erotica gets, folks.

19 A Dowry of Blood

This decadent retelling of a 120-year-old classic follows Constanta, one of the three vampire brides in Bram Stoker’s Dracula . Unnamed in the original, Constanta and her sisters take center stage here, as they love and luxuriate their way across continental Europe. But life with the count — paradoxically both their father and their lover — isn’t easy, and interpersonal tensions soon rise.

20 Fledgling

From Kindred author Octavia E. Butler comes this sci-fi novel about a vampire who wakes up in a remote cave, unable to remember anything about her life. Shori looks like a young Black girl, so much so that Wright, the man who finds her on the side of the road, thinks she must be a missing child. When Shori feeds on him, however, she and Wright form a powerful, symbiotic bond that can’t be broken.

21 The Gilda Stories

Jewelle Gomez’s Lambda Literary Award-winning novel follows its immortal protagonist through 200 years of her long life. When she runs away from the Louisiana plantation where she’s been held in bondage, she takes refuge in a brothel run by a vampire named Gilda. After she is transformed into a vampire herself, Gomez’s heroine takes her rescuer’s name, and begins to forge her own path across the United States.

22 Halfway to the Grave

From urban fantasy queen Jeaniene Frost comes this sexy novel about a half-vampire who teams up with a demon hunter to take revenge on her father. Bones is a full-fledged vampire, a man whom Cat is predisposed to hate, but who might just hold the key to finding her estranged dad. When a killer cabal starts pursuing the pair, however, Cat must decide whether she can trust Bones, or if she’s better off on her own.

23 The Historian

In Elizabeth Kostova’s celebrated 2005 novel, the unnamed narrator joins her father’s quest to learn the truth about rumored vampire Vlad Țepeș (also known as Vlad the Impaler, and the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula ). Years ago, her dad journeyed around the world to get to the root of the Dracula myth — and before him, his mentor did the same. Now, the protagonist learns what happened back then, and finds herself swept up in her predecessors’ mission.

24 In the Ravenous Dark

Rovan’s always hidden her magic, knowing that if Thanopolis’ rulers learned she was a bloodmage, they’d saddle her with a spirit capable of controlling her every move. When worse comes to worst, Rovan finds herself linked to the spirit Ivrilos and working with Lydea — a princess of Thanopolis who wants to change their world for the better.

25 Interview with the Vixen

This Is What It Feels Like author Rebecca Barrow imagines Veronica Lodge, the beloved socialite of Archie Comics fame, as a teenage vampire. She’s just been turned by the ancient bloodsucker Theodore Finch, and narrowly escaped becoming his minion — but she can’t rest yet. Theodore’s planning to bring all of Riverdale under his control, and only Veronica and her friends can stop him. Fans of Riverdale and The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina will love the grittier tone of this nascent horror series.

26 The Lights of Prague

The Lights of Prague centers on Domek, a lamplighter (read: monster hunter) who works behind the scenes to keep the city’s people safe from the forces that would destroy them all. The pijavice, the worst of these foul creatures, crave only blood — and they’re planning an attack that could snuff out humanity, once and for all.

27 Lost Souls

From Exquisite Corpse author Billy Martin, who writes under the pen name Poppy Z. Brite, comes this cult-favorite ’90s novel. Lost Souls revolves around a group of wandering outcasts who find themselves face-to-face with an ancient evil in the American South’s underground party scene.

A musician-turned-vampire hunter is drawn into a chilling mystery when artists from her record label and a competitor begin to turn up dead in a series of grisly murders. It doesn’t seem like the work of a vampire — but if it is, it’s the most powerful bloodsucker Damali’s ever met.

29 Morrigan’s Cross

The first novel in Nora Roberts’ Circle trilogy, Morrigan’s Cross follows a ragtag group of warriors chosen by the eponymous goddess to do battle against her greatest foe: the vampire known as Lilith. Among the fighters are twin brothers Hoyt and Cian: one a sorcerer who has tried and failed to defeat Lilith, and the other a vampire turned by Morrigan herself.

30 The Moth Diaries

The fates of three boarding school students — the unnamed narrator, her roommate, and the school’s newest student — converge in this tense gothic novel. Told through a series of journal entries, The Moth Diaries is a record of two obsessions: the narrator’s fixation on her roommate, Lucy, and Lucy’s own attachment to the mysterious and pale newcomer, Ernessa.

31 My Soul to Keep

The first novel in Tananarive Due’s African Immortals series focuses on one family’s determination to remain together, no matter the cost. Jessica thought she’d met her perfect match when she married David... then people began to die. David and his family back in Ethiopia aren’t what they appear to be, and now an ancient organization wants him to come home. Unwilling to be parted from his wife and daughter, he’ll take a huge risk to grant them both immortality.

32 Opium and Absinthe

In a city still abuzz with talk of Bram Stoker’s must-read novel, a vampiric serial killer lurks in the shadows. When her sister turns up exsanguinated, bearing the mark of a vampire’s kiss on her neck, bookish Tillie Pembroke will stop at nothing to catch the perpetrator. But will Tillie’s newfound dependence on laudanum prevent her from bringing the murderer to justice?

33 The Pale Lady

Did you know that Three Musketeers author Alexandre Dumas wrote a vampire novel? Predating Dracula by nearly 50 years, The Pale Lady tells the story of Hedwig, a Polish girl who’s sent to a monastery in the Carpathians after the advance of Russian troops threatens her home. In the wilds, she meets two alluring brothers, Kotskai and Gregoriska, and moves into their mother’s castle, where strange happenings begin to follow her wherever she goes.

34 Queen of Kings

The Mere Wife author Maria Dahvana Headley’s debut novel, Queen of Kings , reimagines Cleopatra as a grieving ruler hell-bent on avenging her lover’s death. To resurrect Mark Antony, Cleopatra turns to Sekhmet, who gives her the power she craves... as well as a craving for human blood.

35 Some Girls Bite

Chloe Neill’s first Chicagoland Vampires novel, Some Girls Bite , centers on Merit, a Chicago-based grad student who meets not one, but two vampires in the same night. Attacked by one and turned immortal by the other, Merit finds herself living in a house full of bloodsuckers devoted to none other than her savior himself: the 400-year-old vampire lord, Ethan Sullivan.

36 Soulless

Gail Carriger’s first Parasol Protectorate novel introduces readers to Alexia Tarabotti, a young woman whose lack of a soul makes her impervious to all supernatural attackers — including the vampire who breaks the laws of common decency to go after her. Now he’s dead, and none other than the Queen herself has sent a werewolf investigator to sniff out Alexia’s trail.

37 The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires

From My Best Friend’s Exorcism author Grady Hendrix comes this chick-lit horror romp about a Charleston, South Carolina-based book club that steps up to protect the coastal city from a child-murderer — a monster who may or may not be the incredibly handsome singleton who just moved in next door.

38 Vampires Never Get Old

Your favorite YA writers share their best vampire short stories in Vampires Never Get Old , edited by Labyrinth Lost author Zoraida Córdova and Seafire author Natalie C. Parker.

39 Walk Among Us

Set in the world of Vampire: The Masquerade (a much-loved role-playing game), Walk Among Us ’ three novellas follow average human beings as they make first contact with the immortal bloodsuckers who make their homes among the living.

40 Wander This World

College freshman Penley thought his dreams had come true when he finally hooked up with Mel, the vampire girl he’d had a crush on since high school. But someone wants Mel dead, and Penley could very well wind up in the crossfire.

41 Woman, Eating

After leaving her aging mother at a retirement facility, a 23-year-old vampire must navigate the world on her own for the first time, but Lydia’s transition to independence won’t be easy. She’s navigating lost luggage, a deceitful boyfriend, and the question of a post-college job, but her biggest hurdle may lie in working through the trauma of growing up with a self-hating vampire parent.

42 The Route of Ice and Salt

First translated into English in 2021, this 1998 novella from Mexican author José Luis Zárate centers on the captain of the Demeter , a ship chartered to carry 50 boxes of Transylvanian soil to England. After setting out of a Black Sea port, the Demeter and its crew find themselves facing a malevolent force that seems intent on destroying their lives… and maybe even their bodies.

This article was originally published on Sep. 15, 2021

25 Best Vampire Books to Read Right Now

Dracula may be the most famous work of vampire fiction, but there's plenty of exciting new releases and classics to sink your teeth into.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Vampires, mythical creatures that subsists on blood, have loomed large in literature. While Bram Stoker's Dracula , published in 1897, is the long considered the quintessential vampire novel, there are few other fictional vampires that predated Stoker's creation, including Carmilla by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu (1872) and the short story "The Vampyre" by John Polidori (1819).

But vampire literature has evolved greatly since the 19th century; from Edward Cullen in Twilight (yes, a classic) to Louis de Pointe de Lac in Interview with the Vampire , vampires have been a staple of popular novels for decades. Here, 25 of the best vampire books to read now:

Dracula (Penguin Classics)

If you somehow are interested in vampire books and haven't read Dracula , do yourself a favor and pick up a copy ASAP.

Carmilla (Clockwork Editions)

Octavia E. Butler, the renowned science fiction author, takes a unique approach to the vampire story in her final novel, Fledgling . In it, Shori is a 53-year-old amnesiac vampire who appears to be a 10-year-old African American girl. She is genetically engineered vampire, distinguishing her from other vampire books.

Interview with the Vampire

Anne Rice's classic Vampire Chronicles series begins with Interview with the Vampire , where vampire Louis de Pointe du Lac tells his life story to a reporter.

Fevre Dream: A Novel

Did you know George R.R. Martin has written books that aren't set in his Game of Thrones universe? Notably, he authored Fevre Dream in 1982, a vampire novel set on the Mississippi River in the antebellum South.

The Historian

The Historian uses the history of Vlad Țepeș (Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration of Count Dracula) as Paul and his 16-year-old daughter search for Vlad's tomb. It's part Gothic novel and part historical thriller, but definitely focused on vampires.

Black Leopard, Red Wolf (The Dark Star Trilogy)

Marlon James's innovative Dark Star Trilogy (of which the first two books are out) is an epic fantasy set in Arica, using African mythology. One character of note is an Ipundulu, a vampire creature in Zulu folklore. It's not focused only on the Ipundulu, but they just play one part in this sprawling adventure novel.

'Salem's Lot

Stephen King's second novel, 'Salem's Lot , is a horror novel. In it, Ben, a writer, returns to Jerusalem's Lot, Maine, to write about the abanoned Marsten House. But Austrian immigrant Kurt Barlow purchases the house, and spooky, vampiric things start happening.

Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Saga was all teens could talk about in the mid-2000s, and Twilight , featuring the romance between vampire Edward Cullen and average teen Bella Swan, earns a spot on this list for its cultural impact alone.

The Vampyre and Other Tales of the Macabre (Oxford World's Classics)

John Polidori's tale "The Vampyre" was probably the first short story to include a vampire, and a precursor to the romantic vampire genre. It's included in this short story collection, which also features stories by James Hogg, J.S. LeFanu, Letitia Landon, Edward Bulwer, and William Carelton.

Let the Right One In

Låt den rätte komma in, a 2004 vampire novel by Swedish writer John Ajvide Lindqvist (translated to Let the Right One In by Ebba Segerberg) is about 12-year-old Oskar and vampire child Eli, who lives next door.

The Delicate Dependency

Michael Talbot's 1982 vampire novel is set in Victorian London. The story begins when Dr. John Gladstone runs over a young man named Niccolo with his carriage, but soon realizes he is unnaturally healing—and a vampire. Niccolo soon kidnaps one of John's children, and the doctor must set out in pursuit of him.

Certain Dark Things

Silvia Moreno-Garcia, the author of Mexican Gothic , turned her attention to vampires, where she imagines Narco-Vampire wars in Mexico City. The protagonists are Atl, the descendant of Aztec blood drinkers , and Domingo, a street kid trying to survive.

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires: A Novel

One of the more popular vampire novels of the last few years in Grady Hendrix's 2021 The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires , where Patricia is convinced their new neighbor, James, is a vampire.

Anno Dracula

Kim Newman's novel is an alternative history where Dracula marries Queen Victoria and becomes Prince Consort, beginning an era of British vampire domination. Meanwhile, vampires Geneviere Dieudonné and Charles Beauregard team up to hunt a sadistic vampire killer modeled on Jack the Ripper.

Vampires of El Norte

In 1840s Mexico, vampires and vaqueros (cowboys) face off, and childhood sweethearts Néstor and Nena reunite admist the U.S. invasion of Mexico. It's a love story, historical war story, and vampire story all at once—and wholly original.

The Vampire Archives: The Most Complete Volume of Vampire Tales Ever Published

Eighty stories feature in The Vampire Archives , touted as "the biggest, hungriest, undeadliest collection of vampire stories, as well as the most comprehensive bibliography of vampire fiction ever assembled. Dark, stormy, and delicious, once it sinks its teeth into you there’s no escape." It features works by Ray Bradubury, Arthur Conan Doyle, Edgar Allan Poe, and more.

Blue Bloods (Blue Bloods, Book 1)

Blue Bloods is a dishy, glitzy YA series set in New York City featuring Schuyler Van Alen, who begins to change into a vampire (her blood begins to turn blue). She's soon learning the world of secret societies and the popular crowd at her private school, and sets out to uncover the secrets of the Blue Bloods. (Not to be confused with Blue Bloods the cop procedural!)

Vampire Academy

Another very fun YA vampire series is Vampire Academy , where vampires are educated at St. Vladimir’s Academy. The story follows Rose, a Dhampir (half-human/half-vampire), and her best friend Lissa, a vampire princess. Plus: It's also a TV show now streaming!

Guilty Pleasures (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter: Book 1)

When Anita Blake, vampire hunter, is asked by vampire master Nikolaos to solve vampire murders, she can't say no. But over the course of her investigation, she starts falling for vampire Jean-Claude... but she's sworn to destroy h

Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, culture, the royals, and a range of other subjects. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma , a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram .

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Best Books of 2024 @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

The Best Books to Read This August

Inside the Coffee-Table Book Economy

10 Best Books About the Olympics

When Ricky Ian Gordon Met Stephen Sondheim

Lev Grossman on Writing a King Arthur for 2024

How JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Met

Inside a New Biography of JFK Jr.

'The Thursday Murder Club' Movie News

Everything We Know About the Perfect Couple

The Best Books to Read This July

Exclusive Look at Assouline's 'The Last Heroes'

Advertise   Contact   Privacy

Browse All Reviews

New Releases

List Reviews by Rating

List Reviews by Author

List Reviews by Title

50 Best Vampire Books of All Time

Vampire books and stories about creatures of the night have enthralled people for so long, entrancing people with their bloodlust and supernatural powers.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova is probably one of the first vampire books I ever read and loved, but I’ve gone on to discover so many more great ones since then. Here’s a list of some of the best, divided up into the following categories:

General Vampire Books Classic Vampire Books Vampire Humor Young Adult / Teen Vampire Books

This list of The Best Vampire Books of All Time is based on books I’ve read, other people’s reviews and ratings from sites like Goodreads and Amazon. Enjoy!

General Vampire Books

Classic vampire books, vampire humor, young adult vampire books.

Share this post

Middle of the Night

The Housemaid is Watching

She’s Not Sorry

The Seven Year Slip

Darling Girls

It Finally Happened + Summer Romances

Best Literary Fiction of 2024 (New & Anticipated)

The Housemaid Book Series Recap

2024’s Best Book Club Books (New & Anticipated)

Bookshelf: Development Diary

Share your thoughts Cancel reply

Wow! Thank you for this list. 😍

thanks for following along! :)

I want your blood is mine book

12 Best Vampire Books To Sink Your Teeth Into

Get your fangs into these.

Vampires are, of course, a total archetype of horror literature, an archetype that we just never seem to get tired of. There are so many takes on vampires that it is impossible to put together a definitive list of the best vampire books. But thanks to the variety of vampire stories available, and the range of ways in which authors present them, any list of the best vampire books is guaranteed to be full of intriguing characters, plots and delicious horror tropes.

The Best Vampire Books

1. a discovery of witches – deborah harkness.

Thanks to the recent television series, A Discovery Of Witches has been enjoying a newfound popularity. And whilst the show is a lot of things, Harkness’ books are also a fun and entertaining read.

Diana Bishop is a scholar descended from witches, who would rather have nothing to do with magic. But in the library she finds a manuscript that helps her accidentally set a horde of demons, witches and vampires on the library, all looking for the manuscript that has been a much desired treasure. Diana forms an alliance with Matthew Clairmont, a vampire geneticist, and sets out to break the spell.

2. A Small Charred Face – Kazuki Sakuraba

Some amazing horror and paranormal literature comes out of Japan, and A Small Charred Face deserves a place as one of the best vampire books. It has an inventive take on the concept of vampires that goes quite significantly beyond the normal tropes.

A Small Charred Face is divided into three sections, all of which function as a separate story within a larger narrative. Kyo is a boy saved by Mustah, a Bamboo (vampire), who takes him in when Kyp is orphaned. Mustah and Yoji, another Bamboo, raise Kyo as best they can before Kyo starts to realise that they have a plan for him.

3. Carmilla – Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

Carmilla is one of the oldest works of vampire fiction – older even than Dracula – and any discerning vampire fan should definitely have it on their list. It is in books like these that the ever beloved vampire tropes were born and formed.

It is the story of Laura, a woman who lives a lonely life in an isolated castle with her father. But one night, a carriage appears carrying Carmilla, a mysterious woman prone to wandering around at night. As Laura falls under Carmilla’s spell, she has strange nightmares and feels weaker and weaker. Carmilla is full of sexual tension and gothic romance, like all good classic vampire stories.

4. Carpe Jugulum – Terry Pratchett

As anyone with any knowledge of Terry Pratchett will know, Pratchett is the master of trope-bending fantasy. Vampires feature in several of his Discworld novels but in Carpe Jugulum they receive his specific treatment. Although this book concerns characters who have already appeared in earlier novels, you don’t need to have read them to enjoy this vampire content.

Count Maypyr and his family are invited to the naming ceremony of Magrat’s daughter. Like all vampires once invited in, they decide to stay. But the witches of Lancre aren’t about to let that happen – and even though these vampires have built up a tolerance to garlic and bright light, that isn’t going to stop the witches.

5. The Coldest Girl In Cold Town – Holly Black

Holly Black is a big name in YA fiction, and The Coldest Girl In Cold Town is her take on vampire stories. Vampires were big in YA for a while thanks to a little-known series called Twilight, but Black and her unique take deserves a place on the list of best vampire books.

In a not-too-distant future, vampires are real and living among us. They are quarantined in Coldtowns, and spend their time luring humans in to become their prey. No one ever leaves a Coldtown once they’re in. Tana is a normal girl who wakes up after a party surrounded by bodies. Her infected ex-boyfriend needs to get to a Coldtown, and it’s a race against time.

6. Dracula – Bram Stoker

No list of the best vampire books is complete without Dracula, of course. Carmilla may be an older book, but Stoker’s main man is the one we always think of when vampires come up. Dracula really has his stake in the market when it comes to vampire archetypes.

Dracula is a novel told though letters, diaries and newspaper articles. Jonathan Harker is a solicitor who takes a business trip to stay with Count Dracula, barely escaping with his life when he finds out the count is a vampire. Dracula comes to England and terrorises Whitby before he is hunted down by Abraham Van Helsing. So many vampire tropes started here that it simply is a must read.

7. The Gilda Stories – Jewelle Gomez

If you’re looking for a black, queer vampire story then do I have the book for you. Published in 1991, The Gilda Stories was truly ground-breaking in telling the story that it did, and honestly it still hits the same even now.

In the 1850s, a girl escapes from a life of slavery and is taken in by a lesbian vampire couple. When she is old enough, Gilda gives her consent to be changed into a vampire herself, and is charged with following the code her guardians live by; you must leave something behind in exchange for the blood you take. Gilda uses her vampire psychic powers to help people, solving their problems as best she can. As the years pass, Gilda learns to face her own traumatic past and puts together her own found family.

8. The Historian – Elizabeth Kostova

The Historian is often called historical fiction, but really it is a work of fantasy loosely inspired by Eastern European folklore. It is a long read, for sure, but if you’re looking for a vampire story that takes a tour of Europe and European culture then this is the book for you.

A young woman discovers a stash of letters in her father’s library that puts her on a dangerous quest – a quest to discover the truth about Vlad the Impaler, the barbaric ruler upon whom Dracula is based. As she unravels more and more of the truth – that perhaps Dracula did exist after all, and he’s still existing in the modern world – she faces danger at every turn.

9. Image Of Emeralds And Chocolate – K. Murry Johnson

If The Gilda Stories isn’t enough to get you started with black and queer vampire fiction, then Image Of Emeralds And Chocolate is also a good place to jump off from. K. Murry Johnson’s debut deserves a place as one of the best vampire books for not being afraid to push boundaries of what vampire fiction can be.

Eric is a high school senior taking a creative writing course at university. He dreams of love, something that could be a reality when he is assigned Marquis LeBlanc as a writing partner. Marquis has enrolled on the course as therapy for his severe depression, but when he falls in love with Eric. he has to decide whether to reveal his secret. If you like vampire romance, this is for you.

10. Interview With The Vampire – Anne Rice

There is room for one more classic on this list of the best vampire books, and of course that classic has to be Interview With The Vampire. This is only book one of Rice’s The Vampire Chronicles, so there is plenty more where this came from.

Louis is our narrator who tells the story of how he became a vampire, indoctrinated and turned to the life by Lestat (who would go on to become Rice’s most iconic creation). Louis lives a restless life in New Orleans until he is compelled to go looking for others like him. But finding others like him might not be the answer Louis is looking for.

11. Let The Right One In – John Ajvide Lindqvist

Let The Right One In is better known to English speakers from the film of the same name, but the novel is a great and popular work of Nordic literature, and a really good read in its own right. The book isn’t fun in the way some of these entries are; it’s bleak and creepy and just plain sad. But it also feels like a masterpiece.

In a rundown suburb in Sweden, the body of a teenage boy is found drained of blood. There’s a rumour it’s a ritual killing, but 12 year old Oskar hopes that revenge has come for the endless bullying he endures at school. Then Oskar meets Eli, the new girl next door, and all thoughts of murder go out of his head. Eli is strange, and she only comes out at night. This is a dark and twisted story, but a unique take on vampire stories.

12. My Soul To Keep – Tananarive Due

My Soul To Keep is the first in the African Immortals series by Tananarive Due, an expert in black horror and a master of her craft. This series, once again, has a unique take on vampires – one that deserves a place on a list of the best vampire books.

Jessica marries David, a wonderful and attentive family man. But there’s something about him that Jessica can’t put her finger on. Eventually she learns that David is immortal, having traded his humanity 400 years before for the chance to live forever. David’s immortal companions want him back with them, but David is planning on keeping Jessica and their daughter with him. Like Let The Right One In, this book is harrowing in places – but it is also a compelling read.

READ NEXT : The Best Psychological Thriller Books 

Some of the coverage you find on Cultured Vultures contains affiliate links, which provide us with small commissions based on purchases made from visiting our site.

Gamezeen is a Zeen theme demo site. Zeen is a next generation WordPress theme. It’s powerful, beautifully designed and comes with everything you need to engage your visitors and increase conversions.

Latest Reviews

Those below the tree house by matt hayward review, hurry home by roz nay review, spinster review – funny & quirky, the new mutants review – not the worst x-men movie ever.

• Alone in the Dark 2024
• Announcements
• Assassin's Creed Mirage
• Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
• Blu-Ray Reviews
• Book Reviews
• Cheats & Codes
• Crunchyroll
• Discworld Discussions
• Disney Plus
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
• Football Manager 2024
• Game Previews
• Game Reviews
• Games To Play Before You Die
• Gaming Tips & Guides
• Grand Theft Auto 6
• Indie Gaming
• Make the Case
• Memorable Moments
• Movie Reviews
• Movies To See Before You Die
• PlayStation 4
• PlayStation 5
• PlayStation Plus
• Prime Video
• Q&A Interviews
• Short Stories
• Video Game Release Dates
• Video Games
• Where To Watch
• Writing Tips
• Xbox Game Pass
• Xbox Series X | S

Subscribe Today

28 Blood-Suckingly Good Vampire Books for Adults

Emily Wenstrom

By day, Emily Wenstrom is a content marketing specialist. By early-early morning, she is E. J. Wenstorm , an award-winning sci-fi and fantasy author whose debut novel Mud  was named 2016 Book of the Year by the Florida Writers Association.. Her Chronicles of the Third Realm War series includes Mud (#1), Tides (#2), Rain (#0), and more to come. Follow her on Twitter @ejwenstrom .

View All posts by Emily Wenstrom

Trends emerge and die, and then they come back again. Especially when it comes to the undead. Whether vampires are in vogue or not, vampire novels are always lurking around and finding readers to suck in. And it’s easy to see why—from the literary to the horrific to the campy to the undeniably hot , the various ways the vampire tropes have been played with and reinvented have spun out into endless variety that offers something for just about anyone. Here are 28 great vampire books for adults of every flavor to satisfy your thirst for bloodsuckers.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter  by Seth Grahame-Smith

After young Abraham Lincoln discovers his mother was killed by a vampire, he pledges to dedicate his mind and body to the study of vampires, so that he can pursue vengeance. And thus the historic figure and his ax pave a path that takes him all the way to the White House and demands the worst kind of toll on his personal life.

Bitten By the Beast by Alexa Riley

In this first book of the Virgin Blood series, college student Juliet finds herself in the questionable situation of breaking into the frightening mansion near campus. Within it, she finds the beast—vampire Kane Viscardi. Lucky for her, Kane is a little different from other vampires.

Carmilla By Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu

This 1870s classic is one of the original vampire novels that set off the trend, but is often overshadowed by Dracula . In this gothic tale, seduction of the forbidden and the bounds of societal mores are explored as the young woman Carmilla is seduced by a female vampire.

Carpe Jugulum by Terry Pratchett

This 23 rd novel in Prachett’s extensive Discworld series, he brings his satirical humor to vampires. Once Uberwald’s undead are invited into the castle to celebrate the birth of King Verence’s daughter, they seem to be moving in permanently. And these modern vampires’ hunger for awful fashions and bloodlust are most unwelcome, even if they do love the sunlight.

Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Domingo is just a kid scraping by on the streets of Mexico City when a descendant of the Aztec blood drinkers, the beautiful Ati, closes in on him, and he falls for her head over heels. Unfortunately, Ati gets by feasting on the young. But even more pressing right now, she has to get to South America to escape the rival narco-vampire clan.

Dark Genesis by A.D. Koboah

Slave Luna seeks out a witch for help after her abusive master impregnates her, determined to do whatever is necessary to end it. But after, she is abducted by a monster with a lust for blood. Luna is sure her life is over, but instead finds a tormented creature who reawakens her humanity in this first novel of the Darkling Trilogy.

Dark Lover by J.R. Ward

Vampires and slayers are at war in Caldwell, New York. Six brother vampire warriors—the Black Dagger Brotherhood. All love to kill, but Wrath brings the thirst for blood to a new level in his determination for vengeance against the slayer who murdered his parents. Meanwhile, one of his warriors is killed, and his half-breed daughter is brought into the world of the undead and its many pleasures.

Dead Until Dark By Charlaine Harris

The novel that started the True Blood craze. Waitress Sookie Stackhouse finds her ability to read minds makes dating unpleasant, but is thrilled when she finds handsome vampire Bill’s mind is quiet to her. But when people start turning up dead and a gang of violent vampires start seeking out Bill, it seems dating a vampire has different kinds of challenges.

Descent by Gabrielle Estres

A Cambridge professor has been murdered. In the aftermath, his protégé Dr. Andrea Hendrickson receives a parcel full of letters a century old, and the secret her friend died trying to protect. One the Catholic Church has worked with the world’s greatest leaders to hide for centuries, centered on the legend of Vlad the Impaler…who is still alive.

Dhampir by Barb Hendee, J.C. Hendee

The most renowned of vampire slayers, Magiere, is ready to settle down with her half-elf partner Leesil. Unfortunately, it wasn’t fast enough to escape the attention of three vampires who know Magiere’s true identity and are hungry for vengeance.

Dracul by Dacre Stoker, J.D. Barker

It all started when Bram and his sister began to notice the strange behavior of their caretaker, as people went missing in a neighboring village. The caretaker vanishes from their childhood only to reappear years later. This prequel to Dracula follows Bram Stoker himself in his face-off with the most terrifying of creatures. An origin story for the most famous and feared of the vampires.

Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin

Riverboat captain Abner March can see plainly there is something wrong with the wealthy and pale Joshua York who has commissioned him for a ride up the Mississippi River. But the promise of a brand new boat felt worth the risk. From the author of Game of Thrones , this is a chilling take of what a man will risk for immortality.

Fledgling By Octavia E. Butler

A young girl fights to uncover her memories and discovers she is not girl at all, but a 53-year-old vampire. Along with this discovery comes a flood of other memories of her former life, taking the reader into the depths of racism, sexism and other forms of hate and ignorance.

Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton

By day Anita reanimates the dead, and by night she kills the undead. But then she has to join forces with master vampire Jean-Claude to solve a series of murders, and finds herself drawn to him. Romance and horror come together in hot adventures in this first Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter novel.

Insatiable by Meg Cabot

The author of The Princess Diaries brings her quirky perspective to vampires with this first novel of the Insatiable series. Heroine Meena is as over vampires as the rest of us, but is stuck in a job where she writes about them constantly. Then she meets Prince Lucien Antonescu, with a dark side that forces Meena to reconsider her position on the undead.

Let the Right One In By John Ajvide Lindqvist

As a mysterious new girl moves to Oskar’s Swedish town, his classroom nemesis has finally gotten his due—murder. Oskar knows there is something strange with this strange girl from down the street, but he can’t stay away.

Minion Vampire Huntress by L.A. Banks

Vampire and demon hunter Damali faces a group of rogue vampires who are killing the artists of Damali’s music label. Except the marks they leave on their victims aren’t normal for a vampire kill, indicating more than a blood lust—these corpses are mutilated beyond recognition. The monster behind it all is no typical vampire. He’s the most powerful and seductive Damali has ever encountered.

Morrigan’s Cross by Nora Roberts

An epic adventure from one of romance’s top authors. Vampire Lilith has lured countless men to their death with a soul-stealing kiss. One of them was Hoyt’s twin brother. A mere human, Hoyt is powerless against her, but derives power from the goddess Morrigan for a chance to even the score. The first novel of the Circle Trilogy.

My Soul to Keep  By Tananarive Due

Soon after Jessica marries David, he makes a horrifying confession: 400 years ago, he was part of an Ethiopian sect that traded their humanity to escape death. And the sect has come for him, determined to take him away from his new Miami life.

‘Salem’s Lot by Stephen King

In this Stephen King classic, writer Ben Mears returns to his childhood township. He reconnects with old friends and sparks up a new romance, but meanwhile, a boy has gone missing, and an unspeakable evil living within ‘Salem’s Lot has been turning its residents into vampires.

Shades of Wicked by Jeaniene Frost

Ian is a master vampire and he is as bad as they come, with the power to go with it. But he has made an enemy of demon Dagon, who is out for his soul.

Veritas, however, wields justice within their world, and she’s out for Damon herself. Joining forces against him, Ian and Veritas uncover a heated passion between them in this first novel of the Night Rebel series.

Skinwalker by Faith Hunter

Jane heads to New Orleans to hunt down a particularly nasty vampire. Her efforts draw her into the city’s steamy vampire society, and draws out important history of her own Cherokee heritage and her skinwalker powers.

The Strain by Guillermo del Toro, Chuck Hogan

An airplane stops dead on the tarmac of JFK. The CDC is called in to address the unsettling situation, and sends Eph to the scene with the Canary project, a team that focuses on biological threats. Then even more incidents occur in other parts of the country, and a vampiric virus unleashes onto the masses.

Storm Front by Jim Butcher

The beginning of Jim Butcher’s bestselling Dresden Files series. Featuring Chicago’s only wizard detective for the paranormal, Harry Dresden, this first story features a violent murder executed with dark magic. Harry sees nothing but an opportunity to boost his business.

Vampire Hunter D by Hideyuki Kikuchi, Yoshitaka Amano

Far in the future, vampires known as the Nobility have dominated humanity for hundreds of years, and civilization is in ruins. Villages are seeking Hunters to protect them against the vampires, and also their genetically manufactured demons and werewolves. But not all Hunters are equal, and some bring a different kind of danger with them.  

Vlad   by Carlos Fuentes

Yves and his wife help a mysterious European refugee in search for a home that will meet his peculiar needs, like blackened windows and an escape tunnel. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the refugee Vladimir Radu is a different Vladimir altogether—the Impaler, still undead after all these years.

What are your favorite vampire books for adults?

You Might Also Like

Sink Your Teeth Into These Must-Read Vampire Books

Every product on this page was carefully chosen. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure .

Vampires have long been a fascination of both literature and pop culture, with their hypnotic allure and dark charms captivating readers of all ages. But with so many vampire books on the market, how do you know which ones are best and worth sinking your teeth into?

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or just looking for a gripping read, this list of must-read vampire books has something for everyone. From the classics like Dracula to modern-day bestsellers like The Historian , this article will introduce you to some of the most compelling and captivating vampire books out there.

So, get ready to discover your next favorite book in this mystical and mesmerizing genre.

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire is a groundbreaking novel that redefined the genre and gave rise to a new generation of vampire stories.

It is 18th-century New Orleans, and 200-year-old vampire, Louis de Pointe du Lac, recounts his life story to a reporter. Through his eyes, readers are introduced to a cast of fascinating characters, including the charismatic Lestat de Lioncourt, who turns Louis into a vampire, and the young girl Claudia, whom Louis and Lestat create together.

But don’t just take our word for it. Interview with the Vampire has been adapted into a successful movie and has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs. So, if you’re looking for a vampire book that will captivate you from beginning to end, look no further than Interview with the Vampire .

Click Here To Buy

Dracula by Bram Stoker

Bram Stoker’s Dracula is a timeless classic that has influenced the vampire genre for decades. This gothic horror novel was first published in 1897 and has since become a cultural phenomenon. Stoker’s portrayal of the vampire as a seductive and deadly creature has cemented its place in popular culture and has spawned countless adaptations and retellings. 

Dracula tells the story of Count Dracula, a centuries-old vampire who seeks to spread his curse of the undead throughout the world. The novel is written in the form of letters, diary entries, and newspaper articles, giving it a unique and immersive narrative style.

‘Salem’s Lot by Stephen King

If you’re a fan of the classic vampire tales, then Stephen King’s ‘Salem’s Lot is a must-read. This novel is often considered one of the best vampire stories ever written and for good reason. King’s writing is masterful, and he creates a sense of tension and dread that is palpable throughout the book.

The story follows writer Ben Mears as he heads back to his hometown of Jerusalem’s Lot, Maine. He soon discovers that vampires are overrunning the town and must team up with a group of locals to try and stop them.

‘Salem’s Lot is a classic horror novel with all the elements you’d expect from a Stephen King book: a small town setting, a cast of unforgettable characters, and plenty of scares. It’s a testament to King’s talent that he can take a well-worn genre and make it feel fresh and exciting.

The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix

For those craving a more modern twist on the classic vampire tale, The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires is a must-read. Set in the 1990s in Charleston, South Carolina, the novel follows a group of book club members battling a charming and dangerous new neighbor who just so happens to be a vampire.

If you’re a fan of horror, humor, and good storytelling, The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires is not to be missed.

Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler

If you’re looking for a fresh take on vampire lore, Octavia E. Butler’s Fledgling should be your next read. This novel follows the story of Shori, a young girl who wakes up with no memories of her past but soon discovers she’s a genetically modified vampire. As she navigates her identity and relationships with humans and other vampires, Butler explores themes of race, consent, and power dynamics in a way that leaves readers thinking long after finishing the book.

Fangs by Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson’s graphic novel Fangs offers a fresh and humorous perspective on the vampire genre. This charming story follows the adorable romance between a vampire named Elsie and a werewolf named Jimmy as they navigate the highs and lows of their supernatural relationship. Anderson’s quirky illustrations and witty dialogue make Fangs a delightful and engaging read for vampire fans of all ages.

The Passage by Justin Cronin

The Passage is a sweeping novel that takes readers on a journey from the beginning of a vampire-like epidemic to the aftermath of a post-apocalyptic world.

It’s a must-read if you’re looking for a vampire novel that will tackle big themes and tug at your heartstrings.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

Elizabeth Kostova’s The Historian brings a fresh twist to the vampire myth by intertwining it with historical fiction. The story follows a young woman’s journey to uncover the truth behind her father’s disappearance and his obsession with the infamous Vlad the Impaler. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she unravels a centuries-old conspiracy involving the notorious vampire.

The Historian is a must-read if you’re a fan of vampire novels with a historical twist and a compelling mystery.

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Charlaine Harris’ Dead Until Dark offers a classic take on the vampire genre, following the story of telepathic barmaid Sookie Stackhouse and her supernatural adventures in Bon Temps, Louisiana. 

Fans of True Blood , the popular HBO show based on the book series, will appreciate the different twists and turns the source material takes. For those looking for a more traditional vampire story but still crave a touch of humor and romance, Dead Until Dark should be at the top of their reading list. 

Fevre Dream by George R.R. Martin

While George R.R. Martin may be best known for his Game of Thrones series, readers should not overlook his foray into the vampire genre. Fevre Dream takes place in the antebellum South and follows the unlikely friendship between a riverboat captain and a charming yet deadly vampire.

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Another fantastic vampire novel that fans should check out is Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy . This young adult series follows the story of Rose Hathaway, a half-human, half-vampire guardian-in-training, and her best friend, Lissa Dragomir, a royal Moroi vampire. Together, they must learn to navigate the complex and dangerous world of vampire politics while also facing their own struggles and romantic entanglements.

Let Me In by John Ajvide Lindqvist

Let Me In is a unique take on the traditional vampire novel, offering a fresh perspective and complex characters that add depth to the genre. Set in 1980s Sweden, the novel centers on the unlikely friendship between Oskar, a lonely and bullied young boy, and Eli, a mysterious and seemingly ageless vampire.

If you’re looking for a vampire novel that offers something fresh and unique, give Let Me In a try. Its nuanced characters and understated approach to horror make it a standout in the genre. 

Bloodsucking Fiends by Christopher Moore

For a humorous spin on the usual vampire tropes, Bloodsucking Fiends is a must-read. The book follows the adventures of Jody, a newly-turned vampire, and her hapless human boyfriend as they navigate the streets of San Francisco and try to figure out the ins and outs of undead life. With its cast of wacky characters and off-the-wall plot twists, it’ll make a fun addition to any vampire fan’s bookshelf.

Certain Dark Things by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Set in a world where vampires are not only real but control the drug trade, the novel’s intricate world-building and suspenseful plot will keep readers on edge. 

The narrative follows a human woman, Atl, and a vampire, Domingo, as they navigate the dangerous political landscape of Mexico City. Moreno-Garcia masterfully balances action and character development, making Certain Dark Things a satisfying read for both fans of the horror genre and literary fiction.

Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff

Jay Kristoff’s Empire of the Vampire is a must-read for fans of the genre who crave intense action, high stakes, and complex characters. Kristoff’s novel invites readers on a wild ride through a world where vampires reign supreme, and humanity is on the brink of destruction.

The story follows Gabriel de León, a man tormented by his past and seeking redemption, who embarks on a dangerous quest to find a cure for vampirism. As Gabriel ventures deeper into enemy territory, he uncovers shocking truths about his world and his own identity.

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

A Discovery of Witches is a fantastical adventure that will capture the hearts of readers who crave action and romance.

The novel follows the story of Diana Bishop, a historian and witch, who accidentally unlocks an enchanted manuscript and catches the attention of various supernatural creatures, including Matthew Clairmont, a 1,500-year-old vampire. As they work to uncover the manuscript’s secrets, they find themselves drawn to each other in a forbidden, thrilling romance.

Harkness’ world-building is exceptional, as she interweaves historical and scientific facts seamlessly with fictional elements, creating a universe that feels both familiar and intriguingly foreign. For fans of the vampire genre looking for a novel that balances romance, action, and a touch of fantasy, A Discovery of Witches is a must-read. 

Youngblood by Sasha Laurens

Sasha Laurens’ Youngblood is a must-read for those who enjoy a bit of romance mixed with their vampire novels. The story follows a group of young vampires who are learning to navigate their powers and the complexities of teenage life.

But don’t be fooled by the romantic aspect of the story. Laurens does a great job of balancing the lighter moments with action-packed scenes that will have readers on the edge of their seats.

Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton

For readers looking for a vampire novel that incorporates elements of supernatural mystery and suspense, Guilty Pleasures is a must-read. The story follows Anita Blake, a vampire hunter drawn into the seedy underworld of vampires and their followers.

Overall, Guilty Pleasures is an excellent choice for readers looking for a vampire novel that blends action, romance, and supernatural mystery. 

I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

Moving on from historical fiction, I Am Legend takes a more modern approach to the vampire genre. Published in 1954, this influential novel is known for its exploration of the psychological effects of isolation and the last man on Earth. The story follows Robert Neville, the last human survivor of a global pandemic that has turned the rest of humanity into vampire-like creatures. Neville’s struggle to survive and find a cure for the virus is both thrilling and thought-provoking.

Matheson’s novel is a must-read for any vampire genre enthusiast, as it sets itself apart from traditional vampire lore by exploring the science behind vampirism and the idea of what it truly means to be a monster. The book has been adapted into several films, including The Last Man on Earth , The Omega Man , and I Am Legend , each with its own take on the story.

Undead and Unwed by MaryJanice Davidson

For a vampire novel with a lighter and more humorous take, Undead and Unwed is a great choice. The book follows the story of Betsy Taylor, a fashion-conscious and sassy woman who unexpectedly becomes a vampire after a tragic accident. Along with her new immortal status, Betsy also inherits the role of the queen of the vampires, much to her dismay. 

The novel pokes fun at traditional vampire mythology and tropes while delivering an entertaining and engaging read. Readers will enjoy Betsy’s quick wit, sarcastic humor, and the fun and quirky cast of characters that Davidson has created.

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Fans of vampire novels who enjoyed the heart-pumping action and romance in Angels’ Blood and The Beautiful will not want to miss From Blood and Ash .

 In this novel, Armentrout creates a richly imagined world where vampires and humans coexist under a strict hierarchy. The story follows Poppy, a young woman with a hidden past drawn to a brooding guard named Hawke. As their relationship deepens, Poppy must confront dangerous secrets and make choices that could impact the fate of her world.

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

Holly Black’s The Coldest Girl in Coldtown is a unique and captivating addition to young adult vampire fiction. Set in a world where vampires are both feared and idolized, the book not only explores the concept of immortality but also delves into the idea of celebrity culture. The protagonist, Tana, is a complex character grappling with her own demons while navigating a dangerous world of monsters and humans.

Black’s writing style is vivid and descriptive, immersing the reader in Coldtown, a quarantined city where vampires and humans coexist in a fragile balance.

Dark Lover by J.R. Ward

Dark Lover is a perfect fit for those craving a more modern take on the vampire genre. This novel follows the leader of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, Wrath, as he falls for a human woman named Beth. The romance is steamy and intense, set against a world filled with dangerous vampires and political power struggles.

Ward creates a complex and fascinating mythology around her vampires, making them feel fresh and unique. Fans of urban fantasy will love the action-packed plot and the dynamic characters. And while the romance is a highlight of the novel, it never overshadows the intricate world-building and plot twists.

Vampires in the Lemon Grove by Karen Russell

Karen Russell’s Vampires in the Lemon Grove is a collection of short stories that brilliantly explores the vampire mythos with a fresh twist. The eponymous story is a standout, wherein vampires living in a grove of lemon trees must consume the fruit to keep their thirst at bay.

The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gomez

For readers seeking something different from the typical vampire novels, The Gilda Stories offers a refreshing take on the genre. The book follows the life of a black lesbian vampire named Gilda as she navigates through America’s history and society. 

Since its release, the book has amassed a cult following, and for good reason. It offers a unique spin on the vampire mythos and is an excellent addition to any fan’s library.

The Beautiful by Renée Ahdieh

Fans of vampire novels looking for a fresh and unique take on the genre should read Renée Ahdieh’s The Beautiful . Set in 19th-century New Orleans, the book follows a young woman named Celine who’s drawn into the mysterious world of the city’s vampire elite. 

Ahdieh does a fantastic job of creating a lush and atmospheric setting that transports readers straight to the heart of New Orleans. The romance between Celine and the enigmatic Sebastien is captivating. However, it’s the underlying intrigue and danger that keeps the pages turning. 

Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

Another excellent option for those who love vampire stories with a focus on character relationships is Richelle Mead’s Bloodlines . This series is a spin-off from Mead’s popular Vampire Academy novels. It follows the character of Sydney Sage, an Alchemist tasked with keeping the existence of vampires a secret from the human world. 

Bloodlines blends romance and danger, with Sydney’s complicated relationship with vampire Adrian adding a layer of tension to the story. Mead’s writing is fast-paced and engaging, and the deep dive into the world of the Alchemists adds a unique twist.

NOS4A2 by Joe Hill

NOS4A2 takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of horror and suspense, captivating them from the first page. Hill’s creative approach to the vampire genre sets this novel apart from others, providing a fresh and thrilling reading experience. The characters are well-developed and complex, drawing readers into their struggles and triumphs.

Sunshine by Robin McKinley

Robin McKinley’s Sunshine offers a fun take on the vampire genre, incorporating elements of fantasy and romance. McKinley’s writing style is poetic and atmospheric, immersing readers in a world where vampires and humans coexist – albeit tensely. When a group of vampires abducts Sunshine, a baker with a secret, she must use a certain set of abilities to survive and escape.

Necroscope by Brian Lumley

Another exceptional novel that will satisfy the cravings of any vampire genre fan is Necroscope . In Brian Lumley’s fantastical world, vampires are not supernatural beings but rather scientifically explained phenomena. The story follows Harry Keogh, a man who can communicate with the dead, as he uncovers a sinister plot by a powerful vampire to take over the world.

The Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith

The Vampire Diaries follows Elena Gilbert, a teenage girl who falls in love with Stefan Salvatore, a vampire, and his dangerous and alluring brother, Damon. L.J. Smith’s writing is dark and captivating, drawing readers into the fantastical world of vampires, witches, and other supernatural beings. 

And if you have yet to watch the show adaptation, I recommend adding it to your queue. With standout performances from Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder, Paul Wesley, Kat Graham, and Candice King, it is a must-watch.

The Strain by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan

Another fantastic addition to your list of must-read vampire novels is The Strain by Guillermo del Toro and Chuck Hogan. This book takes a unique and terrifying approach to the classic vampire tale, introducing a viral outbreak that turns humans into bloodthirsty creatures. 

The Strain follows Dr. Ephraim Goodweather and his team as they investigate the mysterious epidemic that swept through New York City. As more people become infected, Ephraim must race against time to stop the spread of the virus and save humanity from being overtaken by the vampire threat.

Filled with action, suspense, and plenty of gore, The Strain is a page-turner that will keep you on the edge. With its gripping plot and well-developed characters, it’s no wonder this novel has been adapted into a popular TV series. 

Anno Dracula by Kim Newman

For readers seeking a darker, more serious approach to vampire fiction, Kim Newman’s Anno Dracula is a must-read. Set in an alternate 19th-century London where Dracula has married Queen Victoria and vampires are openly accepted in society, the novel follows a string of murders, threatening the uneasy peace between the living and the undead.

Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

Halfway to the Grave is a vampire novel that seamlessly blends romance , action, and suspense. The story follows half-vampire Catherine Crawfield, who is on a mission to rid the world of the undead. However, her plans are derailed when she meets the irresistible and dangerous vampire, Bones. As they work together to fight a common enemy, they can’t ignore the intense attraction between them.

Frost’s writing is full of tension, both sexual and physical, and her world-building is complex and immersive. Halfway to the Grave is not for the faint of heart, as it contains plenty of violence and gore. However, this book is an excellent choice if you enjoy gritty and intense vampire fiction.

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

In the town of Forks, a romance between Bella Swan and vampire Edward Cullen blossoms, forever changing their lives. 

Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight series took the world by storm in 2008 and has since spawned a cinematic franchise that has a cult following.

Meyer’s writing style is engaging, easy to read, and features compelling characters that readers can easily identify with. With an emphasis on teenage first love, Twilight is an excellent addition to your vampire TBR list. 

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

While many vampire novels occur in ancient or fantastical worlds, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter reimagines the 16th President of the United States as a skilled hunter of the undead. In this thrilling alternate history, the Civil War is not just a battle between North and South but a war between humans and vampires. 

The novel is written in the form of a secret diary kept by Lincoln himself, adding a personal touch to the already gripping storyline. Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is worth a look if you’re looking for a fresh and exciting addition to your vampire reading list.

Angels’ Blood by Nalini Singh

Nalini Singh’s Angels’ Blood is a must-read for fans who enjoy stories that combine supernatural elements with action and suspense. This novel follows Elena Deveraux, a vampire hunter tasked with tracking down a rogue archangel. The world-building in this book is phenomenal, with Singh creating a richly detailed setting that feels both familiar and unique. The chemistry between Elena and the archangel Raphael adds a layer of romantic tension to the story. However, the action and suspense keep the plot moving at a breakneck pace. 

The Vampire Tapestry by Suzy McKee Charnas

Suzy McKee Charnas’ The Vampire Tapestry is a unique and introspective take on the vampire mythos. Unlike many other novels in the genre, Charnas delves deeply into the psychology and motivations of her vampire protagonist, weaving together a complex and nuanced character study.

But don’t let the lack of action fool you – The Vampire Tapestry is still a captivating read that explores themes of power, privilege, and mortality in a fascinating way.

I was impressed that you included The Vampire Tapestry on your list. I think it’s a great book. Another series that is often missed is Chelsea Quinn Yarbro’s Saint-Germain books. She weaves her alchemist vampire into historical events around the world.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe for Latest Updates!

Email address:

28 Best Vampire Books of All Time

Our goal : Find the best Vampire books according to the internet (not just one random person's opinion).

• Type "best vampire books" into our search engine and study the top 5+ pages.
• Add only the books mentioned 2+ times.
• Rank the results neatly for you here! 😊 (It was a lot of work. But hey! That's why we're here, right?)

(Updated 2024)

As an Amazon Associate, we earn money from purchases made through links in this page.

Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

• Best Vampire Books

Bram Stoker

Interview with the Vampire

Vampire chronicles, book 1.

I Am Legend

Richard Matheson

Salem's Lot

Stephen King

The Historian

Elizabeth Kostova

Joseph Sheridan Lefanu

Carpe Jugulum

Discworld, book 23.

Terry Pratchett

Fevre Dream

George R. R. Martin

Octavia E. Butler

Let the Right One In

John Ajvide Lindqvist

A Discovery of Witches

All souls, book 1.

Deborah Harkness

Twilight, Book 1

Stephenie Meyer

The Passage

The passage, book 1.

Justin Cronin

Dead Until Dark

Sookie stackhouse, book 1.

Charlaine Harris

Vampire Academy

Vampire academy, book 1.

Richelle Mead

Guilty Pleasures

Anita blake, book 1.

Laurell K. Hamilton

The Strain Trilogy, Book 1

Guillermo del Toro

Robin McKinley

Adversary Cycle, Book 1

F. Paul Wilson

They Thirst

Robert McCammon

Anno Dracula

Anno dracula, book 1.

Black Sun Rising

C.S. Friedman

Children of the Night

Seasons of horror, book 2.

Dan Simmons

John Steakley

The Vampire Tapestry

Suzy McKee Charnas

Dracula Unbound

Brian W. Aldiss

The Vampyre

John William Polidori

• 12 Best Vampire Books of All Time (2021 Edition) culturedvultures.com
• 50 Best Vampire Books To Cure Blood Lust | The Uncorked Librarian www.theuncorkedlibrarian.com
• Top 10 best vampire books ever - SciFiNow - The World's Best Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Magazine www.scifinow.co.uk
• Best vampire books.html bestfantasybooks.com
• 33 Best Vampires Books to Sink Your Teeth Into | Reedsy Discovery reedsy.com

What To Read Next

Explore other lists

Share this page

Email us if you have any feedback

35 Best Vampire Romance Books to Sink Your Teeth Into

Last Updated on November 27, 2023 by Louisa

I love a good vampire romance novel. Whether it’s a fantasy novel for young adults or a classic horror book, I’m a fan of anything related to the bloody-sucking children of the night.

Thankfully, there are a ton of vampire romance books to enjoy.

In this guide, I’ll be showcasing to you the best vampire romance stories which I dub to be the best vampire books of all time.

So, when you’re ready, let’s sink our teeth into them!

Affiliate Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through any of these links. 

What to Expect From Vampire Romance Books?

Vampire romances became one of the most popular romance tropes after the acclaimed Twilight movies came out, and since then, more and more blood-sucking romances have hit our bookstores.

While the specific details of each book vary, there are a few main features that are consistent throughout the genre.

Fans of vampire romance books can anticipate steamy love scenes, action-packed adventures, and the struggle between the human and vampire worlds.

Most of these books incorporate themes of forbidden love, immortality, and supernatural powers in order to keep readers hooked.

Whether you’re a diehard fan or a newbie to the genre, there’s sure to be a vampire romance book on my list below that will capture your heart and imagination.

Critically Acclaimed Vampire Romance Books

Kicking off my list of the best vampire romance novels are the most highly-acclaimed, well-known, and award-winning novels.

If you haven’t read these world-class vampire romance stories then you need to make sure you add them to your reading list.

1. The Twilight Saga – Stephenie Meyer

An award winning young adult book that has to be featured on my list is the well-known Twilight Saga . It’s an intense love story that you can really sink your teeth into (pun intended).

The quick driving makes this the perfect summer read, and perfect if you are craving something like After. 

When Bella moves into a new town, Edward Cullen immediately catches her eye. He is handsome and mysterious.

Yet, somehow, this mysterious bad boy seems to be drawn to Bella. But is that draw because he loves her, or because he thirsts for her blood? Edward is a vampire.

This deep love story is steamy, with just a hint of danger, just like the non-human characters it contains. 

View it on:

2. A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy) – Deborah Harkness

Deborah Harkness’s sparkling debut, A Discovery of Witches , has catapulted her into the spotlight and galvanized fans around the world.

In this tale of passion and obsession, Diana Bishop, a young scholar, and descendant of witches discovers a long-lost and enchanted alchemical manuscript, Ashmole 782 , deep in Oxford’s Bodleian Library.

Its reappearance summons a fantastical underworld inhabited by vampires that she navigates with her leading man: vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont.

Harkness has created a universe that rivals those of Anne Rice, Diana Gabaldon, and Elizabeth Kostova in terms of scope and depth.

Her story continues with Shadow of Night and concludes with The Book of Life . Harkness has added a scholar’s depth to this riveting tale of magic and suspense.

3. Dark Lover (The Black Dagger Brotherhood Series) – J.R. Ward

If you want a vampire romance that’s action packed and full of adventure, then you may enjoy The Black Dagger Brotherhood series, starting with Dark Lover .

The story centers around Wrath who is the last purebred vampire on Earth, and he leads the Black Dagger Brotherhood. When his most trusted fighter is killed, Wrath must put down his sword and take care of the female who was orphaned as a result.

Beth Randall has been feeling restless lately, not like herself. She can’t shake the feeling that there’s something wrong with her, but she can’t put a finger on it.

One night, out of desperation and fear for what was happening to her, Beth went to a bar and met a man who told her stories about the Brotherhood – stories that made her feel scared.

But even more than his words were his touch; it set off sparks in Beth’s body that she didn’t recognize before.

The man seems dangerous somehow – like he could hurt or even kill her – but despite this fascination, she feels towards him, Beth knows deep down that he isn’t right for her; he scares and terrifies her too much…

The writing style is engaging and flows seamlessly, immersing the reader in the story from the first page.

4. The Awakening (The Vampire Diaries) – L. J. Smith

L.J. Smith’s Vampire Diaries series , which is based on the CW TV show starring Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, and Ian Somerhalder, has been a bestseller on the New York Times list for years.

Elena Gilbert, a high school golden girl, is used to getting what she wants. When the boy she’s set her sights on—the handsome and haunted Stefan—isn’t interested in her, she’s confused.

Stefan is a vampire, and Elena’s in danger just by being around him – not to mention his dark, dangerous vampire brother Damon has just arrived in town.

If you’re a fan of the TV show  The Vampire Diaries , you’ll love this book. It’s packed with the same type of heart-stopping suspense, fierce romances, and jaw-dropping surprises that fans know and love.

5. Vampire Academy – Richelle Mead

Another vampire romance book that needs no introduction is Vampire Academy by Richelle Meal.

The story follows Lissa Dragomir who is a Moroi princess, and she has a rare gift for harnessing the earth’s magic. She must be protected, especially from Strigoi; the fiercest vampires who never dies. 

Rose Hathaway, Lissa’s best friend, is also a Dhampir. Dhampirs are humans who have some vampire blood in them. They are dedicated to a dangerous life of protecting others from Strigoi, who are hell-bent on making Lissa one of them.

Two years after fleeing St. Vladimir’s Academy, Rose and Lissa are recaptured and dragged back to the vampire palace where they must navigate a treacherous world full of dangers.

But soon Rose falls in love with a human, leaving Lissa vulnerable to Strigoi attack. Now she must choose between her best friend and the man she can’t live without…

The action scenes are intense and gripping, making it difficult to put the book down. This is a slow-burning best friend romance novel …

6. Thirst – Christopher Pike

Want a book that’s catered to the teen/young adult audience? Then Thirst is a good option.

After five thousand years of living independently, Alisa thought she knew enough not to get caught by her creator.

But when he comes back to find her, she must protect herself by befriending Ray, the boy who may be able to help her find him.

When Ray begins to fall in love with her, all of a sudden there is more at stake than just her own safety.

The original series, which netted more than 500,000 copies as individual titles and later as bind-ups, will revive the series for today’s teen readers.

7. Glass Houses (Morganville Vampires Series) – Rachel Caine

If you prefer your novels to focus more on the action than the romance, then you will enjoy Glass Houses by Rachel Caine.

Claire Danvers, a freshman at college, is unhappy with her dorm situation. The popular girls at school never let her forget just where she ranks in the social scene.

When she finds an old house to live in off-campus, it may not be much better.

Claire is looking forward to her new roommates, who she believes will be lively and engaging. However, so far they have shown few signs of life.

Claire knows that they will be there for her when the town’s darkest secrets come crawling out, eager for a fresh victim. This is one college romance book with an eerie twist!

8. Vampire Kisses – Ellen Schreiber

Schreiber’s bestselling Vampire Kisses series captures the thrill of a most unusual romance – between vampires and humans.

Some people think that the mansion on Benson Hill is currently occupied, but no one can say for sure. The handsome occupant, Alexander Sterling, has been the subject of much speculation in town.

Raven is a vampire-obsessed Goth who has always considered herself an outsider, determined to uncover the truth about the secretive Alexander.

As she gets to know him better, and their connection intensifies, Raven finds herself in some unexpected situations. But love is complicated – especially when it can only happen at nightfall.

The first three books in Schreiber’s Vampire Kisses series explore the fascinating and forbidden romance between vampires and human beings.

Each book has a forbidden romance full of excitement as these two species clash, but ultimately find their way to love.

9. Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse Series) – Charlaine Harris

This was the book that got me hooked on vampire romance as a trope, which is the novel version of the True Blood TV Series.

Sookie Stackhouse is a cocktail waitress in small-town Bon Temps, Louisiana. She’s quiet and simple-minded and tends to mind her own business–except when she can’t help it, because Sookie has a rare ability to read minds.

And that doesn’t make her too dateable.

Then Bill Compton walks into the bar…

Bill is a vampire with a long history of violence and aggression, which makes it difficult for him to interact with society. As a result, he’s been forced to live on the fringes of society, where he’s become known as a vampire with a bad reputation.

When several murders occur in Bon Temps and Bill is implicated as the killer, Sookie starts to have second thoughts about their relationship.

The struggle between the human and vampire worlds adds a layer of tension and complexity to the plot. The romance and sexual tension is through the roof as well.

10. Crave (Crave Series) – Tracy Wolff

Tracy Wolff is well known for writing fantasy fiction, and anyone who’s a fan of romance books with vampires will want to add Crave to their list if they haven’t already.

When Grace entered the academy, her entire world changed. Nothing about that school or the other kids in it seemed right.

Being the only mortal there, she isn’t sure which of the warring factions she belongs to if she belongs at all.

Then there’s Jaxon Vega. A vampire with lethal secrets who hasn’t felt anything in a century.

But Jaxon put a wall for a purpose. Now someone wants to rouse a sleeping monster, and Grace may have been sent to the academy on purpose—as bait.

Young Adult Vampire Romance Books

If you’re looking for a captivating young adult vampire romance novel to sink your teeth into, then you’re going to love these titles!

11. Marked (House of Night Series) – P. C. Cast & Kristin Cast

The House of Night series by bestselling authors P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast is set in a world where vampires have always existed, except in 16-year-old Zoey Redbird’s world, they are called vampyres.

Zoey enters the House of Night, a school where she will undergo the Change and become an adult vampire. If she survives the Change, she will train to become an elite vampire.

Only Zoey has been blessed by a vampyre goddess named Nyx. Among her classmates, she is not alone in possessing special powers; there are many other fledgling vampires at the House of Night with unique abilities.

When Zoey realizes that the head of the Dark Daughters, a powerful vampire clique, is abusing her Goddess-given gifts, she must take action to fulfill her destiny–with help from her new friends at the House of Night.

The author expertly weaves together elements of romance, action, and the supernatural.

12. The Hunt – Andrew Fukuda

The Hunt transports readers to a world where vampires and humans coexist.

Gene is not like the other humans around him. He isn’t as fast as they are, and sunlight doesn’t hurt him.

He also doesn’t have an unquenchable thirst for blood, which makes him different from most people in this world.

Keeping his true nature a secret is the only way he can survive in a world where humans are considered a delicacy by night creatures and hunted for their blood.

When Gene is chosen to hunt the last remaining humans, his carefully constructed life begins to unravel.

He’s thrust into the path of a girl who makes him feel things he never thought possible-and into a pack of ruthless hunters whose suspicions about his true nature are growing.

Now that Gene has finally found something worth fighting for, his need to survive is stronger than ever-but is it worth the cost of losing what makes him human?

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good supernatural romance with plenty of action and heart.

13. Blue Bloods – Melissa De La Cruz 

Within the most elite families in New York City, there exists a secret society of celebrated Americans.

They are the powerful and wealthy individuals who inhabit the city’s highest echelons―and they are not human. Rather, they are vampires.

Schuyler Van Alen, a high school student from Duchesne, does not fit in with her classmates at a prestigious New York City private school.

She prefers to dress in baggy clothes and live with her reclusive grandmother, who owns a derelict mansion.

Schuyler is content being alone and enjoys spending her time reading old magazines or exploring the abandoned buildings around her house.

When Schuyler turns fifteen, her veins start turning blue and she starts craving raw meat.

There is a mystery surrounding the death of a popular girl from Duchesne, and soon Schuyler’s world is thrust into an intricate maze of secret societies and bitter intrigue. Is she herself in danger?

The book strikes the perfect balance between romance, action, and suspense, making it a must-read for paranormal romance enthusiasts.

14. Morrigan’s Cross (Circle Trilogy) – Nora Roberts

Nora Roberts’ bestselling trilogy begins with a shapeshifter romance story that blends the fantastical and real, breaking down the barriers between reality and otherworldly forces.

It is a tale of passion and conflict, one that brings together the men and women caught in a battle for humanity’s fate.

Late summer sees a period of intense lightning in the sky. The sorcerer stood on a high cliff overlooking the ocean to watch it.

Hoyt Mac Cionaoith, brother of the slain twin, rails against Lilith and her ilk for the destruction they have wrought. This ancient vampire has preyed on many men over the course of her long life, draining their souls until they die.

Hoyt is determined to put an end to Lilith’s reign of terror before she can claim any more innocent lives.

Hoyt is no match for the dark siren. His powers come from a goddess called Morrigan, and she offers him his chance at vengeance. To defeat Lilith, Hoyt must gather five others to form a ring of power strong enough to overcome her.

A circle of six: himself, the witch, the warrior, the scholar, one of many forms (a shapeshifter), and the one he’s lost (his daughter). And it is in this circle.

Hundreds of years in the future—where Hoyt will learn how strong his spirit and heart have become.

15. The Coldest in Cold Town – Holly Black

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown is a gripping and original story of revenge and rage, of guilt and horror, and of love and loathing.

Holly Black has written a novel that will keep readers riveted from beginning to end.

Coldtown was a dangerous place where criminals, addicts, and party-goers congregated. Tana knew this firsthand because she had once been trapped there herself.

Tana lives in a world where there are walled cities called Coldtowns. In these cities, quarantined monsters and humans live together in a decadently bloody mix of predator and prey.

If you pass through the gates of a Coldtown, you will never be able to leave again.

After a fun but unremarkable party, Tana wakes up to find her ex-boyfriend and another survivor infected with the virus. They’re on the edge of death, so she takes off in search of help.

The only place to go is Coldtown – home to the richest and most powerful people in the city. If she can reach them before they die, maybe they can save themselves.

16. Guilty Pleasures (Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter Series) – Laurell K. Hamilton

Anita Blake, a vampire hunter, and romantic suspense writer, has become a household name. Her novels blend the genres of romance, horror, and adventure with stunning panache.

She is a small, dark woman with a dangerous demeanor. She specializes in re-animating the dead and killing vampires who go too far.

When the city’s most powerful vampire asks her to solve a series of slayings, Anita must confront her greatest fear – her attraction to master vampire Jean-Claude.

The best-selling series by Laurell K. Hamilton has captured readers’ wildest imaginations and addicted them to a seductive world.

Its supernatural hunger collides with the desires of the human heart, starring a heroine like no other before her.

The wildly popular Laurell K. Hamilton series features characters and storylines that enthrall readers with a truly unique spin on vampire mythology.

With stories that explore all aspects of love – between humans and vampires, friends and enemies – these novels are sure to keep you entertained for hours on end.

17. The Evernight Series – Claudia Gray

At the eerily Gothic Evernight Academy, Bianca is not like the other students. She doesn’t fit in amongst the skinny and smart kids.

When Bianca meets Lucas, she is warned to be careful – even when it comes to caring about him. But the connection between them can’t be denied.

Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are destined to tear them apart . . . and make Bianca question everything she’s ever believed.

The setting is richly detailed, immersing readers in the dark and seductive world of the vampire elite.

18. The Beautiful – Renee Ahdieh

It begins in 1872, and New Orleans is ruled by the dead. But for seventeen-year-old Celine Rousseau, it’s a safe haven after she’s forced to flee her life as a dressmaker in Paris.

Taken in by the sisters of the Ursuline convent, Celine quickly becomes enraptured by the vibrant city and its glitzy underworld known as La Cour des Lions.

When the body of one of the girls from Sébastien’s convent is found in his lair–the second dead girl to turn up in recent weeks.

Celine must grapple with her attraction to Sébastien, as well as suspicions about his guilt, while also dealing with her own shameful secret.

The main characters are complex and well-developed, making it easy for readers to become emotionally invested in their journey.

19. Bloodline – Kate Cary

Thirty-five years have passed since the death of the Master. In recent years, a new evil has arisen among the living.

After returning from World War I, nineteen-year-old John Shaw has nightmares of the battlefield and of the strange, cruel, and impossible feats his regiment’s commander, Quincey Harker, performed. Harker’s strength is superhuman.

At first, John blamed his bloody nightmares on trench fever. But when Harker appears in England and begins to woo John’s sister, John must confront the truth—and stop Harker from continuing Dracula’s bloodline.

Fans of the genre will appreciate the fresh take on vampire mythology and the gripping action scenes.

20. King of Battle and Blood – Scarlett St Clair

Scarlett St. Clair, the author of the Hades & Persephone series, has released her latest book, a dark and dangerous fantasy.

Isolde de Lara considers her wedding day to be the day she will die. To end a long war, she is to marry vampire king Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev and kill him.

But Adrian’s assassination attempt is thwarted, and he threatens that if Isolde tries to kill him again, he will raise her as a vampire.

Faced with the possibility of becoming the thing she hates most, Isolde looks for ways to defy him and survive in his brutal vampire court.

Despite their chemistry, she wonders why this savage and merciless king chose her to be his wife. The answer will change everything.

St. Claire expertly weaves together themes of love, immortality, royal intrigue, and supernatural powers to create a story that is both thrilling and heart-wrenching.

21. The Casquette Girls – Alys Arden

Another historical fiction novel with a vampire romance is The Casquette Girls by Alyss Arden.

1600s New Orleans is hit by a devastating hurricane, and sixteen-year-old Adele Le Moyne and her father are among the first to return.

They want nothing more than to resume their normal lives, but with the city in ruins and a parish-wide curfew in effect, it’s hard to do anything normal.

There are also mysterious new faces lurking in the abandoned French Quarter – people who Adele doesn’t know or understand.

Strange events have led Adele to an attic sealed for three hundred years. If she can’t find a way to stop the chaos she accidentally unleashed, it could endanger not only her but also everyone she knows.

In the aftermath of a murder spree that has left the city reeling, Adele must untangle a web of magic that connects the climbing murder rate back to her own ancestors.

However, it becomes clear that not everyone can be trusted in this secretive city where secrets can mean life or death. Unless Adele is also immortal.

This captivating novel offers a unique twist on the classic vampire romance genre.

Steamy Vampire Romance Books

Looking for a steamy vampire romance novel to get the blood pumping? Then you’ll love swooning over these steamy vampire romance stories…

22. Dead Witch Walking (The Hollows Series) – Kim Harrison

Kim Harrison’s Hollows series is comprised of a total of sixteen books. The first book, Dead Witch Walking was published in 2006 and tells the story of a witch named Rachel who struggles to keep her magic hidden from the humans around her.

The creatures of the night gather in The Hollows of Cincinnati to hide, to prowl, and to party.

In a world of vampires, Rachel Morgan is the one who keeps things civilized. She’s faced dangers beyond imagination, and she’s determined to keep the darkness at bay.

She’s a bounty hunter with an attitude.

23. Carmilla – J. Sheridan Le Fanu

Carmilla was published in 1871, 26 years before Bram Stoker’s Dracula . It is therefore considered the original vampire novel, though it never got the attention that Dracula did.

It follows a young girl who becomes obsessed with another girl, named Camilla. We learn that Carmilla is a vampire who is praying upon our narrator.

This is one of the earliest novels featuring lesbian vampires, with the main characters expressing romantic desires toward each other.

It’s subtle romance for what we are used to seeing in contemporary romances today, but at its time, this would have been considered real smutty stuff.

24. Touch the Dark (The Cassandra Palmer Series) – Karen Chance

Cassandra Palmer has a gift that allows her to see the future and communicate with spirits.

This makes her attractive to people who are interested in the dead and undead. Ghosts are not usually dangerous, but they can be very chatty.

Undead are a different kind of creature, which is why they are so dangerous.

Cassie is cautious about vampires, but when the mobster she escaped three years ago finds her again with vengeance on his mind, she turns to the vampire Senate for protection.

Cassie finds herself working closely with one of the most powerful members of the undead senate, a seductive master vampire.

The price he demands may be too high for Cassie to pay, and she begins to fear for her safety.

25. Bloodsucking Friends – Christopher Moore

When Jody wakes up after being drugged and dumped under a dumpster, she realizes that she has become a vampire.

Tommy Flood is a would-be Kerouac who is biding his time night-clerking and frozen turkey bowling in a San Francisco Safeway.

However, when he meets a beautiful undead redhead, his life changes dramatically.

Readers will be swept away by the steamy love scenes and pulse-pounding action in Bloodsucking Friends .

26. Unchained (Blood Bond Saga) – Helen Hardt

Dante Gabriel is starving. After a female vampire kept him as a blood for years, he finally escapes. Now, free and unrestrained, he follows his nose to the nearest blood bank in order to sate his hunger.

Erin Hamilton is expecting a typical night shift at the hospital until she finds a beautiful stranger vandalizing the blood bank.

Though her logical mind tells her to report him, Erin’s stronger and unfamiliar emotions pull her to protect him, leading to an intense chemistry between them.

Dante, however, has nightmares from his time in captivity that make him fear he won’t be able to control himself around Erin – especially when he discovers a secret she doesn’t even know she’s hiding.

This is one paranormal doctor romance book you won’t be able to put down.

27. Skinwalker (Jane Yellowrock Series) – Faith Hunter

A shapeshifting skinwalker named Jane Yellowrock makes an appearance in the first book of the New York Times best-selling series that captures “the essence of urban fantasy.”

Fans of paranormal biker romance books will love getting to know this powerful creature and following her adventures in a world where magic is real.

Jane Yellowrock is the last of her kind—a skinwalker who can turn into any creature she desires and hunts vampires for a living.

Recently, Katherine Fontaneau, one of the oldest vampires in New Orleans, hired Jane to hunt a powerful rogue vampire who’s been killing other vamps.

Amidst a bordello full of prostitutes, Jane must stay focused and complete her mission- or else she might end up as one of the “ladies of the night.”

28. Halfway to the Grave (Night Huntress Series) – Jeaniene Frost

Passionate and forbidden love stories have long been a staple of the genre and make for gripping reading material, which is why I think you’ll enjoy Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost.

The story follows Catherine Crawfield who is determined to seek revenge on the undead for what they did to her mother. She hopes that one of them is her father, who she believes ruined her mother’s life.

When Bones, a bounty hunter, and vampire, captures her, she finds herself forced into an unholy partnership.

 In return for his help in locating her father, Cat agrees to train with the hot night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs.

But that’s not all Bones has in store for her – Cat’s starting to believe maybe vampires aren’t all evil after all, especially ones as cute as Bones.

She’s half-convinced that being half-dead doesn’t have to be all bad.

Before Cat can enjoy her newfound status as a confident kick-ass demon hunter, she and Bones are hotly pursued by a band of killers. She has to choose a side – and fast – or risk being killed.

29. Night Pleasures (Dark Hunters Series) – Sherrilyn Kenyon

The Dark-Hunters are a group of ancient warriors who have sworn to protect humanity and the fate of the world rests in their hands.

Kyrian of Thrace is a vampire who has just woken up handcuffed to his worst nightmare: an accountant.

Worse, she’s being hunted by one of the most lethal vampires out there, and if Amanda Devereaux goes down, then Kyrian does too.

But it’s not just their lives that are hanging in the balance; humanity itself is at risk if Amanda and Kyrian don’t succeed in stopping her. Let’s hope they win

30. Watcher – Roh Morgon

Watcher is the winner of the International Vampire Film & Arts Festival Silver Stake Award for 2019.

Sunny Martin recurrently looks in the mirror, dreading that someone will see her reflection and realize she is a vampire.

Sunny’s lonely struggle to survive on the edge of the human world leads her to the mountain peaks of Colorado, where she meets Nicolas, the enigmatic leader of a hidden society.

Sunny’s passionate, violent nature reveals a shocking truth about her savage nature that drives her towards an agonizing choice between her heart and the last remnant of her human soul.

Romantic Comedy Vampire Books

Need something a little more lighthearted? Try these rom-com romantic vampire books on for size…

31. The Gilda Stories – Jewelle Gomez

Before Buffy, before Twilight, there was The Gilda Stories , Jewelle Gomez’s steamy vampire novel.

This novel begins in 1850s Louisiana. Gilda has just escaped slavery and learns about freedom, meanwhile working in a brothel.

After being initiated as immortal and one who “shares the blood” of two women there, she spends the next 200 years looking for a place to call home.

When The Gilda Stories were first published in 1991, it became an international sensation. An instant lesbian classic with explorations of blackness, radical ecology, re-definitions of family.

If you’re looking for an erotic paranormal romance book with vampires, this is the one.

32. My Ex-Wife Said Go To Hell (Immortal Divorce Court Series) – Kirk Zurosky

Welcome to the world of mythical creatures where relationships can go wrong just like ours do. With an ever-ex, the drama never ends!

Sirius Sinister realizes that he may have been married to someone else without realizing it.

Sirius goes to court with his demon attorney, Maximillian Justice, to defend himself. But the trial spirals out of control and Sirius ends up being banished to hell for 100 years.

Sirius escapes from Azkaban and ends up in the Caribbean with his next paramour, the Howler.

After a wild romp under the lure of a full moon, he finds himself becoming the father of a litter of puppies– but, the Howler and her Pack want to put Sirius in deadbeat dad status.

Luckily, Sirius is saved by Queen Merfolk who comes with hidden agenda even as they fall in love. Can he make it work with Queen Merfolk or will he have to head to Immortal Divorce Court once again?

If you’ve ever nursed a broken heart, or been vengeful, then Immortal Divorce Court Volume 1 is for you. This steamy and exciting debut novel is the start of a series about the flawed antihero Sirius Sinister.

33. Fashionably Dead (Hot Damned Series) – Robyn Peterman

There is no such thing as a vampyre. They are an urban legend that is based on myths and legends.

Astrid was relieved to find out that she wasn’t actually going to die after trying to quit smoking, but she knows she must have upset someone in a past life when getting healthy seemed like the only way out.

Now that she’s a vampire, some of the benefits are nice. Her girls no longer bounce around, her behind is higher than a kite and the latest Prada has been appearing in her wardrobe.

However, there are downsides to this transformation as she’s stuck with an obscenely profane guardian angel who looks like Oprah and a fairy fighting coach who is teaching her how to annihilate like The Terminator.

Since her libido has increased to a Vampyric level, and she’s extremely attracted to a hot-tempered killer rogue Vampyre, avoiding him is the only option.

However, since he believes that she’s one of his own kind, it will be difficult to avoid him.

34. Undead and Unwed – Mary Janice Davidson

The first Betsy Taylor, Vampire Queen novel tells the story of a young woman who is thrust into a world of darkness and terror.

In this novel, the young protagonist must fight to survive in a society where vampires are the ruling class. She must also contend with her own dark desires and fears as she struggles to find her place in this dangerous world.

After she loses her job, Betsy is killed in a car accident. But the really painful thing is that she keeps coming back to life. She can’t stop drinking blood and her new friends think she’s the vampire queen.

No, this week is not going well for Betsy at all…

35. My Commander – Alanea Alder

When the topic of grandchildren comes up at a weekly sewing circle, the matriarchs of the founding families seek out the witch Elder to see if their sons have found mates.

Many of the parents in the community are shocked to discover that many of their sons’ mates are not living at home.

They fear that their daughters-in-law will die before they can be claimed as wives and provide them with grandchildren, so they convince their own mates to send their sons away.

After staging a fake awards ceremony, the witch Elder casts a spell to compel the warriors’ mates to come to them.

Aiden McKenzie is adamant that he does not need a mate and would only get in the way. He doesn’t have time for someone who needs constant care and attention.

He doesn’t realize that fate is sending him his mate first. He meets Meryn Evans and things go downhill from there because she is the embodiment of chaos. In the first 24 hours, she screams and kicks her mate unconscious.

They eventually discover that life before finding each other may have been good, but life afterward is perfect, even if it involves playing water wars and accidentally discharging hand grenades.

Meryn is troubled by the case she’s been assigned to work on with Aiden, as it feels like it’s taking away from her joy in mating.

Like this post? Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest!

Final Word on Best Vampire Romance Books

So there you have it, my top romantic vampire books of all time!

Whether you’re looking for a highly-acclaimed novel, an action-packed young adult novel, or something tantalizing and steamy, there’s a romance vampire book for everyone on this list.

Do you have a favorite novel or think I’ve missed anything? Let me know in the comments!

About Louisa Smith

Editor/Founder - Epic Book Society

Louisa is the Founder, Editor, and Head Honcho of Epic Book Society. She was born and raised in the United Kingdom and graduated from the University for the Creative Arts with a degree in Journalism. Louisa began her writing career at the age of 7 when her poetry was published in an anthology of poems to celebrate the Queen's Jubilee. Upon graduating university, she spent several years working as a journalist writing about books before transitioning to become a Primary School Teacher. Louisa loves all genres of books, but her favorites are Sci-Fi, Romance, Fantasy, and Young Adult Fiction. Read more Louisa's story here .

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Site Navigation

Affiliate Disclosure : This website uses affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission through purchases made through this site at no extra cost to you. Epic Book Society is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program Affiliate Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Join the Society!

Want to connect with other bookworms?

We've created a place where book lovers can come together and share recommendations and ideas with each other. There will be no spam from us, that's a promise .

Click the button below to join our exclusive Facebook group.

Contact Us: [email protected]

Follow our socials:

© 2023 Epic Book Society • Built with  GeneratePress

6 Best Vampire Books Ever (2024)

Best vampire books, horror and romance.

The word vampire has been around for so long now and vampire fiction is always fun to read or watch.

The stories that are related to vampires are always packed with mystery, thrill, many times horror, almost always romance, and a lot more that makes these books that we are about to review here a few of the best vampire books you can possibly read.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

You will find that this book is written in an old epistolary format, what this means is that it’s not a straightforward story. It’s a bunch of pieces tied together from letters, diary entries, newspaper articles, and most of the story takes place in the same year, between May 3rd and November 6th. The only event that is not at the same time is a short note at the end of the book that is written 7 years after the events that happen in the novel.

Jonathan Harker

The character who starts out this fantasy story is Jonathan Harker who is on his way to Count Dracula’s castle located in the Carpathian Mountains on the border of Transylvania, Bukovina, and Moldavia. Jonathan is going to provide some legal support for real estate plans that the Count is currently in the middle of. Jonathan has no idea that vampires live there or that the Count is a vampire himself.

What a Greeting

When he arrives, he is greeted by Dracula’s three sisters and Jonathan quickly finds out that they are vampires. He meets the Count soon after he rescues Harker from his sisters and realizes that Dracula too is a vampire. After finishing with the business about Dracula moving to England and taking care of his real estate here, the Count leaves Harker to his vampire sisters and he barely escapes with his life.

The story from there focuses on the Count himself although Jonathan Harker is not out of the story yet. You get to read about the plans that Dracula has in mind and truly find out what excitement this character will bring to the story and for you. If you like vampires, then this book about the master vampire himself is definitely a must-read.

‘Salem’s Lot by Stephen King

Legend himself.

This book by him is a story about vampires, a town that gets overrun by them to be more specific. It starts with a character named Ben Mears who is returning to his old childhood hometown.

Nothing is out of the ordinary then as he catches up with a high-school friend of his and gets into a passionate relationship with Susan Norton, a college graduate. Things are definitely peaceful there until a certain event sets a few horrible ones in motion.

Kurt Barlow

Ben has returned to this town to write a story on an old abandoned house, the Marsten House, and he finds out that a creepy man named Kurt Barlow actually owns that house now. The thrill in the story finally arrives when a terrible secret is revealed about Barlow after two boys were pronounced missing and the one was somehow killed and then resurrected again.

This was the doing of Barlow himself as he is an actual vampire who turned one of the boys into a vampire. After that, most of the town was turned into vampires and these characters’ lives became super difficult. For more info, visit our review of ‘Salem’s Lot book .

You get to see a lot of killings in this book, more humans than vampires as Stephen King writes his stories differently than many other writers, that’s what makes his novels especially fun to read.

Characters that you don’t want to die get slaughtered by vampires and it is definitely safe to say that this book is very unpredictable which makes it one of the best vampire books out there for sure. If you are interested in King’s books, take a look at our The Stand book review!

Interview With The Vampire by Anne Rice

Anne Rice writes a story that has one of the best vampire-related plots out there. The story starts out as a character named Louis gives an interview about his very complicated, but definitely exciting, life from before and after he got turned into a vampire.

His story begins when he meets a weird fellow named Lestat. This guy is the first vampire who you get to meet in this book and the one who starts this wild adventure that this best vampire books review will reveal to you.

Louis is a plantation owner and one day, his whole life changes when Lestat turns him into a vampire because he was lonely and was seeking someone’s company. Now the two are immortal and Lestat will never feel alone again.

Senseless Killing

They start to get along after a while, despite what Lestat did to Louis and they both live at the plantation now, but not for long. The slaves and the people around them start noticing some weird stuff as Lestat kills slaves at will to drink their blood, unlike Louis who only feeds off animals.

They burn down the plantation so that no one can tell their story and flee. Another character gets mixed up in the story when they see a 5-year-old girl crying on top of her dead mother’s body. Louis has been thinking of abandoning Lestat because he wanted to kill this girl and for other reasons so Lestat bites and turns this little girl into a vampire.

Forever Stuck

After 60 years, the little girl starts to despise Lestat more and more because she will forever be stuck in this young child’s body even though her mind is getting more mature.

The events that follow after this are too good to be spoiled in this review about some of the best vampire books, so you can keep all of the excitement for yourself of finding out what happens next and how this fascinating story ends.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova

Fascinating story.

There has been a myth around the life of a 15th-century prince of Wallachia, Vlad Tepes, that he is a vampire.

Rossi is the one who begins his research and crazy adventure to find this vampire when he uncovers a mysterious book that changes his life. His search ends when he is forced to return home after some strange things that scare him off. He is then found missing with blood all over his office but not before he tells this story to his student, Paul, who carries on his research after him.

The book shows no signs of vampires for some time and the suspense just keeps building up, but that final reveal is what makes every single page from this 700-page long novel worth it. Paul’s and Rossi’s daughters get involved and their journey takes them around the world until they finally come very close to locating the vampire.

They see Rossi again, locked in chains, and waiting for his full transformation to become a vampire. They strike him with a silver dagger before he completely turns and Rossi reveals something crucial to the investigation to them right before he dies.

The vampire who they are looking for is a scholar and Rossi has found out that he has a secret library near, that’s where they might finally find him. Definitely give this book a read if you enjoy more in-depth mystery stories about vampires and an investigation that has so much suspense that you will want to read the whole book in one sitting.

Let The Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist

You read about Oskar, a twelve-year-old boy who is definitely not having an easy childhood as he is constantly bullied and beaten by other kids. These events force Oskar to have dark thoughts and to be prone to violence.

His loneliness ends when a new girl moves to his neighborhood. Her name is Eli and she looks around his age but is actually around 2 centuries old. She is a vampire who lives in her new house with her human servant, Hakan, who is a very strange man and he is in love with Eli. Oskar and Eli become friends, they discover more things about each other and don’t find anything weird about one another.

The Eli parts of the story are definitely fun to read as you find out how Hakan chooses and traps the perfect human prey for Eli to feed off. The story introduces a few thrilling twists when one of Hakan’s hunts for humans fails and he gets caught.

Mindless Vampire

When in the hospital, he offers his blood to Eli because he knows he won’t be free after this and just before Eli finishes him off, they are interrupted by a guard and Hakan jumps off the window. He survives because he was still turned into a vampire, a mindless one who is powered by his desire to be intimate with Eli.

There are definitely some strange scenes in this book, but they are far from not entertaining as you are probably going to remember this book for a long time. The events that happen in this book are what make this novel like the others in this best vampire books review and the author has definitely written a unique and memorable story.

I Am Legend by Richard Matheson

This book is a collection of some of Richard Matheson’s most interesting novels and short stories. As you can see from the title itself, the main attraction here is his story I Am Legend.

A story about vampires that will definitely be to your liking if you enjoy vampire fiction and epic fantasy worlds. A few of the 11 stories in this collection have plots related to vampires and the others are still as exciting as them.

Robert Neville

In I Am Legend, the most popular story of the ones in the collection, you read about a character named Robert Neville, the last remaining human on Earth because of a deadly plague that has killed most of the people on the planet and turned the survivors into blood-thirsty vampires.

Robert’s everyday life includes him chasing vampires during the day as they can’t come out into the sun, and barricading himself in his house at night and hoping that he makes it until sunlight.

Reading about Robert’s life definitely makes you feel safer reading this book from the comfort of your own home as he is all alone in the world despite the fact that countless vampires are all around him.

Looking for a Cure

Robert reads books and learns anything he can about the vampires, how to kill them, what kinds of weapons and methods work against them, and so much more. He is trying to figure out a way to make a cure and reverse what has happened to humans.

If you are into vampire stories and the thrill, romance, drama, and suspense that comes along with them, then you can choose some of these best vampire books freely to make sure you pass the time in an exciting way.

Robert Hazley

Robert is a science fiction and fantasy geek. (He is also the best looking Ereads writer!) Besides reading and writing, he enjoys sports, cosplay, and good food (don't we all?). Currently works as an accountant (would you believe that?)

• Fantasy Books
• Romance Books
• Asian Literature and Authors
• Korean Literature
• Japanese Literature
• Dystopian & Science Fiction Books
• Thriller Books
• Manga and Comics
• Historical and Cultural Books
• Language & Learning
• Poetry Writing
• Writers Only
• Book Review Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Terms and Conditions

• Romance Novels & Stories

19 Best Vampire Romance Books: Sink Your Teeth into Passion

Get Ready to Go on a Cultural Journey:

Join Our Newsletter and Discover Fascinating Destinations and Literary Adventures That Will Ignite Your Imagination!

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Buckle up, night crawlers! 🌙 Ready for a list that bites back? Behold: the “19 Best Vampire Romance Books”! 🦇 These aren’t your grandma’s Dracula tales; we’re talking love, fangs, and more drama than a vampire soap opera.

Short Answer: The best vampire romance books are in town, and they’re thirsty for your attention. Sink your teeth into this list for a supernatural love-fest you won’t see coming! 🖤

🔥 Dive into Romance Bliss! Unveil the enchantment of love with our irresistible collection of Romance Books ! Whether you crave contemporary sparks or historical allure, these stories redefine the art of romance. Click now for a love affair like never before! 💖✨

Top 3 Best Vampire Romance Books

If you’re itching for fresh reads, my top 3 favorite Best Vampire Romance Books await—a captivating blend of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. Don’t miss the chance to sink your teeth into these page-turners! 🦇📚

Best Vampire Romance Books: Unveiling Immortal Love

Embark on a mesmerizing journey into eternal love with our carefully curated selection of the best vampire romance books.

These novels are chosen for their enthralling plots, well-crafted characters, and the enchanting allure that weaves through every page.

Fall in love with the undead as you explore the realms of passion, mystery, and immortal romance. 🦇💖

1. Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost (2007)

Story Synopsis

In Halfway to the Grave , Cat Crawfield, a sassy and sharp-witted half-vampire, has a unique mission – hunting down rogue vampires.

Fuelled by a personal vendetta, she collides with the enigmatic and magnetic vampire Bones.

Their partnership evolves into a high-stakes adventure as they confront a looming vampire conspiracy threatening both their worlds.

Why You’ll Love It

Step into a world where stakes are high, and so is the chemistry. Jeaniene Frost crafts a rollercoaster of emotions, blending action, romance, and snarky banter.

With its unique take on the vampire romance genre, this book is a page-turner that will leave you thirsting for more.

Whether you’re a vampire romance aficionado or a newcomer, this tale will sink its teeth into your heart.

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON HERE.

2. Dark Lover by Jessica Bird (writing as J.R. Ward) (2005)

In Dark Lover , J.R. Ward introduces us to the gritty and enthralling world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

Wrath, the last purebred vampire, must confront his destiny and lead his kind in a war against the Lessening Society.

Amidst the battles, he discovers a forbidden love with a human, Beth Randall, challenging everything he thought he knew about his existence.

Prepare for a wild ride through the shadows with J.R. Ward’s Dark Lover.

The narrative is a symphony of passion, danger, and unexpected alliances.

Ward weaves an intricate web of characters, each with their quirks and flaws.

Fans of vampire romance books will relish the darkness and desire that saturate every page.

It’s not just a story; it’s a visceral experience that’ll hook you from the first bite.

3. From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout (2020)

Jennifer L. Armentrout invites you into a realm of secrets and forbidden desires in From Blood and Ash .

Poppy, the Maiden, is shrouded in mystery, her identity a closely guarded secret.

As intrigue unfolds, she finds herself torn between duty and the allure of a forbidden connection with Hawke, a guard with his own concealed motives.

Check out my complete book review of “From Blood and Ash” here.

From Blood and Ash is not just a single book, but an entire book series called “Blood and Ash” .

In the world of vampire romance books, From Blood and Ash stands out like a captivating sonnet.

Armentrout’s storytelling prowess shines, blending lush world-building, a strong heroine, and a slow-burning romance.

The characters leap off the page, and the twists keep you guessing.

If you crave a cocktail of romance, fantasy, and suspense, this book is a must-read.

Get ready for a journey that’ll leave you breathless and yearning for more.

4. A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole (2006)

Dive into the passionate world of A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole.

Lachlain MacRieve, a ferocious werewolf, discovers his fated mate – Emmaline Troy, a half-Valkyrie, half-vampire.

Their love story unfolds amidst a supernatural war, filled with sizzling tension and unexpected alliances.

This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, where love clashes with destiny in the most electrifying way.

Cole’s writing hooks you from the first page, blending steamy romance with action-packed sequences.

Get ready for a wild ride as the characters navigate a world where passion knows no bounds.

5. Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon (2002)

Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon invites you into a shadowy realm where Dark-Hunters battle Daimons.

Kyrian, a Dark-Hunter cursed with immortality, crosses paths with Amanda, a skeptical accountant.

Their entwined fate leads them through a maze of danger, prophecies, and, of course, undeniable passion.

Kenyon weaves a tale where ancient mythology meets modern-day sensibilities.

The chemistry between Kyrian and Amanda is electric, and Kenyon’s vivid storytelling immerses you in a world where every shadow conceals secrets.

Prepare for a gripping adventure filled with supernatural intrigue and heart-pounding romance.

6. Twilight, Book 1: Twilight by Stephenie Meyer (2005)

In Twilight , Stephenie Meyer introduces us to Bella Swan, a mortal drawn to the mysterious Edward Cullen, a vampire with a heart-wrenching past.

Their love defies the natural order, creating ripples in the world of vampires and werewolves.

The saga unfolds with the complexities of forbidden love, supernatural dangers, and the eternal struggle between immortality and humanity.

Meyer’s Twilight is a modern classic that blends teenage angst with the allure of the supernatural.

The forbidden romance keeps you hooked, and the supernatural elements add a layer of mystery.

Get ready for a journey that transcends mortal boundaries, exploring the complexities of love in a world where vampires sparkle and hearts race.

7. Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris (2001)

Step into the enchanting town of Bon Temps with Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris.

Sookie Stackhouse, a vivacious telepathic waitress, grapples with the challenges of living in a world where vampires have “come out of the coffin” and become part of everyday society.

When the mysterious and brooding Bill Compton walks into Merlotte’s Bar, Sookie’s life takes an unexpected turn.

The narrative unfolds with a mix of Southern charm, supernatural mysteries, and the complexities of forbidden love.

What makes Dead Until Dark an irresistible read is Harris’s ability to infuse humor and warmth into the supernatural.

The chemistry between Sookie and Bill is magnetic, their relationship navigating the intricacies of vampire-human dynamics.

Harris crafts characters with depth, making the reader feel like part of the quirky Bon Temps community.

This novel isn’t just about vampires; it’s a delightful exploration of love, acceptance, and the unexpected adventures that arise when the supernatural becomes part of the everyday.

8. A Quick Bite by Lynsay Sands (2005)

Lynsay Sands whisks readers away into the witty and charming world of the Argeneau family in A Quick Bite.

The Argeneaus, a modern vampire clan living undercover among humans, find themselves in delightful chaos when Lissianna encounters the mortal, Dr. Gregory Hewitt.

Their journey unfolds with Sands’s signature blend of humor, romance, and a touch of immortal eccentricity.

What sets A Quick Bite apart is Sands’s skill in infusing the paranormal with lighthearted fun.

The Argeneau family’s dynamic is a delightful comedy of errors, and Lissianna and Gregory’s love story is as heartwarming as it is entertaining.

Sands’s writing is akin to a culinary masterpiece, each chapter a delectable morsel in a banquet of humor and romance.

For those who enjoy their vampire romance served with a side of laughter, A Quick Bite is a literary feast that satisfies both the heart and the funny bone.

9. Kiss of Midnight by Tina St. John (writing as Lara Adrian) (2007)

Lara Adrian, writing as Tina St. John, immerses readers in the darkly seductive world of Kiss of Midnight .

Vampire warrior Lucan Thorne, burdened by duty and haunted by a tragic past, encounters Gabrielle Maxwell, a talented photographer ensnared in a web of vampire intrigues.

Their journey unfurls against a backdrop of nocturnal passion, unveiling secrets that could shatter the delicate balance between vampires and their ancient enemies.

What makes Kiss of Midnight a compelling read is Adrian’s talent for crafting a richly textured world where danger lurks in every shadow.

The chemistry between Lucan and Gabrielle is as intense as the midnight kiss that defines their fate.

Adrian weaves an intricate tapestry of romance and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.

For those who crave a vampire romance with a darker, more mysterious edge, Kiss of Midnight is a mesmerizing journey into the shadows where love and danger entwine in an irresistible dance.

10. Lover Eternal by J.R. Ward (writing as Jessica Bird) (2006)

Dive into the enthralling world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood with Lover Eternal by J.R. Ward.

Rhage, a warrior cursed with a beast within, finds an unlikely ally in Mary Luce, a human woman with her own scars.

As they navigate the dangers of the vampire world, their connection deepens, unveiling secrets that test the boundaries of love and loyalty.

What makes Lover Eternal a standout in the realm of vampire romance books is Ward’s masterful storytelling.

The chemistry between Rhage and Mary is a blazing fire, and Ward skillfully intertwines passion with heart-wrenching emotion.

This book isn’t just about vampires; it’s a journey into the complexities of love, sacrifice, and the redemption that can bloom in the most unexpected places.

Get ready for a ride that’s as intense as it is emotionally satisfying.

11. One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost (2008)

Jeaniene Frost invites readers on a thrilling ride with One Foot in the Grave . Cat Crawfield, a half-vampire with a penchant for hunting her own kind, faces new challenges.

When her vampire lover, Bones, is captured, Cat must navigate a treacherous world of betrayal and vengeance.

The stakes are higher than ever as Cat battles not only for love but also for her very existence.

Frost’s writing in One Foot in the Grave is a delicious blend of suspense, romance, and supernatural intrigue.

The chemistry between Cat and Bones crackles off the page, and Frost expertly weaves humor into even the most intense moments.

This book isn’t just a sequel; it’s a rollercoaster of emotions that delves into the darker corners of the vampire world.

For those who crave a vampire romance with bite, this is a must-read.

12. Soul to Keep by Rebekah Weatherspoon (2016)

Rebekah Weatherspoon introduces readers to a different kind of vampire romance with Soul to Keep .

When college student Andi meets Regina, a vampire with a mysterious past, their connection defies the conventions of the supernatural world.

As their love blossoms, they face challenges that test the boundaries of what it means to be human or immortal.

Soul to Keep stands out in the genre with Weatherspoon’s refreshing take on vampire romance.

The love story between Andi and Regina is not only passionate but also challenges traditional norms.

Weatherspoon infuses the narrative with humor, warmth, and a modern sensibility that makes the characters feel like old friends.

This book isn’t just about vampires; it’s a celebration of love in all its forms, wrapped in a package of wit and charm.

Get ready for a love story that defies expectations and leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling.

13. Sacrifice by Katee Robert (2020)

Katee Robert weaves a tale of forbidden desire and supernatural intrigue in Sacrifice.

Imogen Bates, a witch with a troubled past, finds herself entangled with the enigmatic vampire, Ares.

As they navigate a world teetering on the edge of chaos, secrets unravel, alliances shift, and the line between predator and prey blurs in a dangerous dance.

Sacrifice isn’t your typical vampire romance; it’s a rollercoaster of twists and turns that keeps you guessing.

Robert’s storytelling is like a spell, weaving a narrative that’s both seductive and suspenseful.

The chemistry between Imogen and Ares is electric, and the stakes are higher than ever.

If you crave a vampire romance that defies expectations, Sacrifice is a spellbinding journey into the shadows.

14. Insatiable by Meg Cabot (2010)

In Insatiable by Meg Cabot, Meena Harper, a practical woman with an unusual ability to foresee death, becomes entangled with Lucien Antonescu, a charming vampire prince.

As they navigate the complexities of love, duty, and the supernatural, they find themselves on a collision course with a destiny that could reshape the vampire world.

Insatiable is a witty and irreverent take on vampire romance.

Cabot infuses humor into the narrative, creating a story that’s as entertaining as it is romantic.

The banter between Meena and Lucien is delightful, and Cabot adds a modern twist to classic vampire lore.

If you’re looking for a vampire romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously, Insatiable is a fang-tastic choice.

15. A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness (2011)

Deborah Harkness invites readers into a world where witches, vampires, and daemons coexist in A Discovery of Witches .

Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, discovers a mysterious manuscript that thrusts her into a supernatural world.

Alongside vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont, she unravels secrets that could alter the course of history and the delicate balance between species.

What sets A Discovery of Witches apart is Harkness’s meticulous world-building and rich character development.

The romance between Diana and Matthew is a slow burn that adds depth to the narrative.

Harkness seamlessly blends history, science, and magic, creating a tapestry that transports you to another realm.

If you crave a vampire romance with intellectual heft, A Discovery of Witches is a captivating journey into a world where the past and present collide.

16. When Life Gives You Vampires by Gloria Duke (2022)

Gloria Duke spins a tale of humor and heart in When Life Gives You Vampires .

Meet Lucy Jones, a pragmatic baker with a penchant for attracting chaos.

Her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled with Vladislav, a vampire with a mysterious past.

As they navigate the challenges of love, laughter, and bloodsucking, the streets of New York City become a backdrop for a quirky romance like no other.

When Life Gives You Vampires is a breath of fresh air in the world of vampire romance books.

Duke’s writing is like a sweet treat, blending humor and heart with a dash of the supernatural.

The banter between Lucy and Vladislav is delightful, and Duke injects a modern sensibility into classic vampire lore.

If you’re tired of brooding vampires and want a story that leaves you smiling, this book is a bite-sized adventure into the lighter side of the undead.

17. At Grave’s End by Jeaniene Frost (2008)

Jeaniene Frost plunges readers into a world of danger and passion in At Grave’s End .

Cat Crawfield and her vampire lover, Bones, face their most formidable foe yet.

As they confront betrayal, dark forces, and a looming war, their love is tested in ways that push them to the brink.

The stakes are higher, the battles fiercer, and the line between ally and enemy becomes as blurred as the shadows.

At Grave’s End is a thrilling ride that catapults the reader into the heart of the action.

Frost’s storytelling is like a shot of adrenaline, each chapter a pulse-pounding revelation.

The chemistry between Cat and Bones is as explosive as the battles they face.

This isn’t just a vampire romance; it’s a high-octane journey into a world where love and danger collide.

If you crave a vampire romance with intense emotions and edge-of-your-seat excitement, At Grave’s End delivers in spades.

18. Angels’ Blood by Nalini Singh (2009)

Nalini Singh invites you into a world where angels and vampires collide in Angels’ Blood.

Elena Deveraux, a skilled vampire hunter, is hired by the enigmatic Archangel Raphael to track down an archangel gone rogue.

As they navigate a landscape of celestial politics and supernatural peril, Elena and Raphael find themselves entangled in a web of desire, danger, and ancient power.

Angels’ Blood is a celestial symphony of romance and intrigue.

Singh’s writing is like a siren’s song, drawing you into a world where passion and danger dance in a delicate balance.

The chemistry between Elena and Raphael is as scorching as the angelic wings that adorn the cover.

This isn’t just a vampire romance; it’s an immersive experience into a realm where angels and vampires reign.

If you’re yearning for a love story with celestial flair and a touch of the supernatural, Angels’ Blood is a mesmerizing journey into the unknown.

19. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead (2007)

Richelle Mead crafts a coming-of-age tale like no other in Vampire Academy.

Rose Hathaway, a Dhampir guardian, is tasked with protecting her best friend, Lissa Dragomir, a Moroi vampire princess, from the perils of their world.

As they navigate the complexities of vampire society, forbidden romance, and dark forces, Rose discovers that the true test of loyalty and love goes beyond life and death.

Vampire Academy is not your typical high school drama; it’s a supernatural rollercoaster with a bite.

Mead’s writing captures the essence of teenage rebellion, friendship, and first love against a backdrop of fangs and magic.

The chemistry between Rose and her brooding mentor, Dimitri, adds a layer of tension that keeps you hooked.

This book isn’t just about vampires; it’s a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of the undead.

If you’re craving a vampire romance with a side of teenage angst and supernatural twists, Vampire Academy delivers in spades.

What are Vampire Romance Books?

A fusion of supernatural allure and love.

Vampire romance books are captivating tales that seamlessly blend the supernatural allure of vampires with the intoxicating realms of love and passion.

These narratives explore the intricate relationships between mortals and immortals, offering a unique cocktail of suspense, mystery, and undying love.

Immersive Journeys into Darkness

In these books, readers are transported into worlds where forbidden love and eternal desire take center stage.

Vampire romance books delve into the complexities of relationships that transcend time, providing an engaging exploration of the shadows where mortal and immortal realms intertwine.

Beyond the Bite: Secrets of Immortal Love

These books unlock the secrets of immortal love, weaving tales of passion, sacrifice, and the eternal dance between light and darkness.

Vampire romance books go beyond the bite, offering a literary experience that leaves readers thirsty for more, delving into the emotional landscapes of characters grappling with both their human and supernatural sides.

Elements of a Perfect Vampire Romance

Eternal bonds.

In vampire romance books, eternal bonds form the core.

These stories depict relationships that transcend time, capturing the essence of undying love.

Characters often grapple with the challenges of immortal partnerships, creating narratives that resonate with readers seeking the timeless allure of enduring connections.

In the classic vampire romance “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer, the immortal love between Bella Swan, a mortal, and Edward Cullen, a vampire, forms an unbreakable bond.

Their relationship evolves across the entire series, showcasing the challenges and joys of a love that withstands the test of time.

Forbidden Allure

The forbidden allure in vampire romance books adds an extra layer of intrigue.

Whether it’s a mortal falling for a vampire or navigating the complexities of supernatural societies, these tales explore the tension and thrill of love that defies societal norms.

This element injects an exciting unpredictability into the narrative, keeping readers hooked.

An exemplary illustration of forbidden allure is found in “Interview with the Vampire” by Anne Rice.

The novel introduces Louis, a mortal, and Lestat, a vampire, whose unconventional bond defies societal norms.

The allure of their forbidden relationship adds a layer of complexity, making the narrative both thrilling and poignant.

Supernatural Intricacies

Vampire romance books intricately weave the mortal and supernatural realms.

These stories delve into the nuances of navigating dual existences, exploring how characters balance their human and immortal sides.

This element not only adds depth to the characters but also enriches the overall storytelling, providing a captivating blend of fantasy and reality.

In “A Discovery of Witches” by Deborah Harkness, the protagonist, Diana Bishop, navigates the intricate world of vampires, witches, and daemons.

As a historian and witch, she grapples with her human identity while forming connections with creatures from the supernatural realm.

This intricate interplay adds depth to the narrative.

Dark Sensuality

Dark sensuality is a hallmark of vampire romance books.

The physical and emotional connections between characters are often depicted with heightened intensity.

Whether through mesmerizing gazes, enthralling bites, or passionate encounters, these stories amplify sensuality, creating an immersive experience that resonates with fans of the genre.

“Dark Lover” by Jessica Bird (writing as J.R. Ward) exemplifies dark sensuality.

The book introduces the passionate and intense relationship between Beth, a mortal, and Wrath, the vampire king.

Their encounters are charged with sensuality, creating a captivating atmosphere that resonates with readers seeking the allure of dark and passionate romance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About The Best Vampire Romance Books

Q: what makes a vampire romance book the best.

The best vampire romance books seamlessly blend captivating plots, intense character relationships, and an atmospheric balance of darkness and desire. Look for narratives that transport readers into worlds where forbidden love, supernatural elements, and emotional depth create an immersive and unforgettable experience.

Q: How do I choose the best vampire romance book for my taste?

Choosing the best vampire romance book involves considering your preferences. Whether you prefer intense and passionate relationships, complex plots, or a mix of supernatural elements, identifying your specific taste will guide you to titles that align with your reading preferences.

Q: Are there specific sub-genres within the category of vampire romance books?

Yes, vampire romance encompasses various sub-genres, including paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and historical romance. Each sub-genre brings its own unique twist to vampire stories, offering readers a diverse range of settings, themes, and atmospheres to explore.

Q: Can you recommend some vampire romance books with strong character development?

Certainly! Titles like “Soul to Keep” by Rebekah Weatherspoon and “Lover Eternal” by J.R. Ward feature compelling characters whose development adds depth to the narrative. These books go beyond the romantic aspects, providing well-rounded characters with engaging story arcs.

Q: What elements should I look for in the plot of the vampire romance books?

A compelling vampire romance plot should include a balance of suspense, romance, and supernatural intrigue. Look for stories that explore the challenges of immortal love, confrontations with supernatural threats, and the emotional growth of characters as they navigate complex relationships.

Q: Are there any new releases among vampire romance books worth checking out?

Certainly! Keep an eye out for recent releases like “A Soul of Ash and Blood” by Jennifer L. Armentrout and “Court of the Vampire Queen” by Katee Robert. These fresh titles offer exciting narratives that contribute to the evolving landscape of vampire romance.

Q: Do the vampire romance books typically include supernatural elements beyond vampires?

Yes, vampire romance books often incorporate a variety of supernatural elements. From witches and werewolves to magical artifacts, these stories expand beyond vampires, creating rich and dynamic worlds where various supernatural beings coexist and interact.

Q: Where can I find reviews or ratings for the best vampire romance books?

For reviews and ratings, platforms like Goodreads, Amazon, and specialized book review blogs are excellent resources. Reading feedback from fellow enthusiasts provides valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of specific vampire romance books, helping you make informed reading choices.

Q: Are there vampire romance books suitable for readers who are new to the genre?

Absolutely! Entry-level vampire romance books like “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer or “Vampire Academy” by Richelle Mead are perfect starting points. These books introduce readers to the genre with accessible storytelling, making them ideal for those new to the world of vampire romance.

Q: How often is the list of best vampire romance books updated to include new releases?

The list of best vampire romance books is regularly updated to reflect the latest releases and maintain relevance. Typically, it’s a good idea to check for updates quarterly or semi-annually to discover new titles that have entered the realm of the best in vampire romance.

Final Thoughts on the Best Vampire Romance Books

In the realm of vampire romance books , the adventure is eternal, and the stories, immortal.

In the enchanting world of the best vampire romance books , love, mystery, and the supernatural converge. From the timeless allure of Anne Rice’s “Interview with the Vampire” to the contemporary charm of Jennifer L. Armentrout’s “A Soul of Ash and Blood,” these tales have captivated readers across decades.

Whether you’re drawn to the passionate dynamics between mortal and immortal or the intricate worlds where vampires coexist with other supernatural beings, there’s a blood-stirring story waiting to sink its teeth into your literary heart.

Thanks to Grammarly for picking up 1 critical issue and 3 advanced issues in my draft of this review. If, like me, you have trouble with typos,  do give Grammarly a go!

If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to subscribe for more!

Happy reading! A.J. McMahon . . . (P.S. Got any other books you want me to review? Then…)

Let’s Connect! –  GoodReads: A.J. McMahon –  Instagram: FlyIntoBooks –  Pinterest: FlyIntoBooks –  Facebook: FlyIntoBooks –  Twitter: @FlyIntoBooks

Share this:

🌙 Dive into the nocturnal world of vampire romance! Which bloodsucking love saga has your heart? Are you Team Edward or Team Lestat? Share your favorite moments and let’s vamp-chat! Ever had a book boyfriend who’s immortal? Spill the fangtastic details below! 💑🧛‍♂️ #VampireRomance #BookLove #EternalLoveStories

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Please enter an answer in digits: 18 − two =

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

HOTTEST POSTS

17 Best Halloween Romance Books to Spark Romance! 📖❤️

17 Best Fall Romance Books: Dive into Cozy Love Stories

Best Summer Gifts For Readers: A Comprehensive Guide

The Best Gifts for Book Lovers: A Comprehensive Guide

From Blood and Ash Series: The Ultimate Guide to this Popular...

Hottest comments on flyintobooks.com.

POPULAR CATEGORY

• Literature 74
• Korean Literature 13
• Asian Literature & Authors 12
• Fantasy Books 11
• Dystopian & Sci-Fi Classics 9
• Language & Learning 7

The 78+ Best Romance Books for Adults – Ultimate Guide

Famous Korean Romance Novels in English: Discovering Timeless Love Stories

20 Irresistible Romance Novels From Around the World

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Newsletters
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

10 Thrilling Vampire Books You Can’t Help But Sink Your Teeth Into

At Woman’s World, we could sink our teeth into vampire books from the likes of Anne Rice or Stephenie Meyer any time of year. And with so many thrilling tales to choose from, you can’t help but love these bloodsuckers. 

Whether you’re looking for a steamy romance or a sweeping fantastical journey, these stories are sure to be compelling — it’s no wonder so much vampire fiction was adapted for film and television. We’ve gathered up a variety of our favorite vampire books, from cult classics like Interview With a Vampire to exciting new adventures like The Serpent and the Wings of the Night. Keep scrolling for all our recommendations — don’t worry they won’t bite!

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer

Readers are taken to Forks, Washington, in this utterly romantic tale. After moving in with her dad, Bella Swan becomes enthralled with classmate Edward Cullen. But as the two grow closer, Bella begins to wonder what Edward, and the rest of his family, are hiding. Perfect for fans of paranormal romance.

What readers are saying: “ Although I have read many vampire romances, both for adults and young adults, none of them have moved me as deeply as the books of The Twilight Saga , the first of which remains my favorite. The poignant, bittersweet tone of the writing, the wonderfully depicted characters, indeed, the story itself, have made me a lifelong fan!”

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

Journey to St. Vladimir’s Academy, a hidden place where vampires study magic and half-humans are trained to protect them. Rose, a Dhampir (human bodyguard) and her best friend Lissa, a Moroi vampire princess, have been on the run. When they’re called back to the academy, they must fight and defend themselves from outside forces. While learning and enduring training, the duo face forbidden romances and school drama and must be on the lookout for the Strigoi — the most dangerous vampires of all. 

What readers are saying: “This is still one of my all-time favorite books,” says Courtney Shapiro , Woman’s World Digital Associate Editor. From the intense action to the powerful friendships and of course the love stories, I was hooked from page one. The characters are incredible and the writing pulls you in — I couldn’t stop reading.”

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

A classic in the vampire world, this vampire book weaves together current events and flashbacks to share the tale of how Louis became a vampire at the hands of Vampire Lestat. The thrilling tale starts in New Orleans and is filled with Louis’ confessions both of his mortal and immortal life. While there, Louis meets Claudia and turns her into a vampire to save her from hurt. The pair then flee to Europe to find others of their kind and figure out where they belong after their transition.

What readers are saying: “ I love Anne Rice's writing style. Every time I read the books in this series, I cannot put them down without picking them back up, not even for a moment. I like that the writer does this. She really grabs the attention of her readers, especially ones that have been vampire fans for what seems to have been centuries.”

Vampires of El Norte by Isabel Cañas

From the author of The Hacienda comes a supernatural western where vampires, vaqueros and star-crossed lovers battle it out on the border of Texas and Mexico. Meet Nena, the daughter of a rancher in 1840s Mexico who’s dealt with her fair share of monsters. Néstor, believing Nena is dead, is on the run from his grief, working as a vaquero. But when the United States invades Mexico, the two find their paths unexpectedly crossing again. If they can’t work through the struggles of their past and learn to tackle the future together, neither of them will survive.

What readers are saying: “ A fantastic setting, great POVs, the Mexican-American War and vampires. I loved everything about this, and that starts with Cañas’ atmospheric writing. I think my favorite part was the two main characters, Nena and Nestor. Both of their POVs were equally well done, and both grew so much as characters throughout the novel.”

The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix

Full of charm and wit, Hendrix’s vampire tale follows a woman’s book club in the South faced with a mysterious newcomer. When Patricia Campbell’s life seems to be falling apart, the only thing that keeps her going is her book club. Suddenly, she’s attacked one night after the meeting by her elderly neighbor. This makes James Harris (the neighbor’s nephew) a fixture in her life. But when children start to go missing, Patricia believes James might be doing more harm than good. 

What readers are saying: “ I love a great vampire story, unfortunately, they're hard to find. The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampire s did not disappoint. This is a well-written novel, with rich descriptions that run from idyllic to unsettling to masterfully grotesque. The dialogue is sprinkled with southernisms, the characters likable and deeply flawed.”

King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair

Very steamy romance blends with danger and thrills in this romantasy novel by TikTok-favorite author Scarlett St. Clair. To end a years-long war, Isolde de Lara marries her enemy, the vampire king Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev, against her will. The only advantage? She will finally get the chance to kill him. But when her assassination attempt goes wrong, Adrian threatens to turn Isolde into the thing she hates the most: a vampire. Now, Isolde must lie, rebel and try to survive, even as insatiable attraction starts to complicate everything.

What readers are saying: “ This book enraptured me from the first chapter! I love how it kept you guessing. It is not only a love story but a battle of desire and loyalty. I loved the passion and enjoyed the storyline. Every character and detail was crucial.”

Bride by Ali Hazelwood

When a Vampyre bride and an alpha Werewolf come together to form an alliance, who knows what could happen? Misery Lark, the daughter of a Vampyre councilman, and Lowe Moreland, the alpha of his pack, are trapped in a marriage of convenience for political gain. As they navigate the complexities between the vampyres and weres, they find themselves getting closer to one another. As they fall in love, turmoil strikes, leaving them to wonder if their happily ever after is just a fantasy. 

What readers are saying: “I need Ali Hazelwood to write more paranormal romance immediately,” says Courtney Shapiro , Woman’s World Digital Associate Editor. “This book had me completely hooked from the beginning and everything about this was top-tier. I loved the real-world setting and I loved the mix of Weres and Vampyres. Bride was such a fun, delightful book and I'm obsessed.”

My Roommate is a Vampire by Jenna Levine

This delightful, hauntingly funny and smart debut is perfect for rom-com lovers! No one wants a vampire as a roommate, but for artist Cassie Greenberg, that is exactly what happens. Desperate for a place, she decides to live in an almost too-good-to-be-true apartment in central Chicago, with the alluring (yet slightly odd) Fredrick J. Fitzwilliam. Sure, he leaves her heart-melting notes around the apartment and asks about her art, but he has a very old vocabulary and stores bags of blood in the fridge. Now, Cassie wants Frederick to come clean…and when he does, she’s shocked. Her new roommate is a vampire…and he has a proposition for her.

What readers are saying: “ If you’re looking for a light-hearted read full of humor, a unique twist on vampires/vampire powers, a fanny pack full of gold doubloons, lots of exotic fruit, adorable crushes, jaunts around the Chicagoland area and something that is going to leave you with a giant smile on your face, this is the book for you!” 

The Serpent and The Wings of Night by Carissa Broadbent

High-stakes action, complex worlds, vampires…this New York Times bestseller by Carissa Broadbent has it all. Oraya is the human daughter of the Nightborn vampire king. When she must enter the Kejari, a legendary tournament, she allies with a mysterious rival named Raihn. This suspenseful novel is perfect for fans of The Hunger Games — with a fantastical vampire twist!

What readers are saying: “Sometimes when I spend too much time reading the news online, I walk away so worried about the state of the world,” shares Melissa D’Agnese , Woman’s World Senior Editor. “For a reprieve, I get lost in otherworldly tales like this one. It was unputdownable!”

Crave by Tracy Wolff

Welcome to Katmere Academy. Grace is a teenager trying to figure out where she belongs in a new world of monsters. But when Jaxon Vega, a vampire who hasn’t felt anything in a century, calls to her, Grace finds herself unable to stay away from him. Will they help fix each other’s broken spirits or will their new relationship spell death for the entire school?

What readers are saying: “ Can I just say wow! I have finally found my book! Tracy Wolff does the vampire comeback right! I am pretty sure I could sit here and talk about Crave for hours upon hours — it is just that freaking good.”

For more book recommendations:

12 Best Audiobooks To Keep You Company This Summer, from Thrillers to Romance + More!

10 Captivating Novels That Will Transport You Back to Summer Camp!

10 Debut Novels From 2024 That You Don’t Want to Miss: From Romance to Time Travel!

Best MLB Betting Promos & Bonuses for Wednesday, August 14 | Make MLB Bets Today

Share this article.

The Astros (64-55) have won seven straight and now have a small lead over the Mariners in the AL West. Houston will send Ronel Blanco (9-6, 3.02 ERA) to the mound tonight in hopes of extending the win streak and completing a three-game sweep of the Rays (59-60). Tampa Bay will have Zach Littell (5-8, 4.11) on the hill.  You can bet on any game on today’s MLB slate and take advantage of one or more of these lucrative MLB betting promos and bonuses.

As you’re evaluating all these MLB sportsbook promos and looking to make your best MLB bets today, keep in mind you’re allowed to sign up for as many of these as you want, which could lead to thousands of dollars in protected first bets and/or bonus bets.

Here are the best sportsbook promos for MLB betting.

Best MLB Betting Promos & Bonuses – Bet on Today’s Games

Note:   Bettors in the Tar Heel State can now access special  North Carolina sportsbook promos  as  North Carolina sports betting  launched on March 11. 

Best MLB Betting Promos & Bonuses: BetMGM

When you create a BetMGM account with the BetMGM bonus code SBWIRE , you’re entitled to a protected first bet up to $1,500. That’s the biggest bet limit out there among MLB betting promos .

How does this work? You place a first bet on Major League Baseball. As long as this bet is in the $10 to $1,500 range — you get to choose — BetMGM has your back. If your first bet wins, then BetMGM pays you in withdrawable cash. But if your first bet loses, BetMGM returns the full amount to you in the form of bonus bets.

If you bet $50 or more, you’ll have five bonus bets — each of them worth 20% of your original wager. If you bet less than $50, then you’ll have one bonus bet. You receive seven days to play your bonus bet(s).

Best MLB Sportsbook Promos & Betting Bonuses: Caesars Sportsbook

When you sign up with the Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBWIRE1000 , you’re rewarded with a first bet up to $1,000 on Caesars. If your first bet falters, Caesars Sportsbook sends the amount of your first bet back to your account as one bet credit.

You get 14 days to use your bet credit on any of the 20-plus sports available on Caesars Sportsbook’s app — one of the nation’s leading sports betting apps . Because Caesars Sportsbook abides by a 1X playthrough requirement like all these MLB betting promos , your bet credit must win just once for you to pocket the profit in cash.

Best MLB Betting Promos: Fanatics Sportsbook

The Fanatics Sportsbook promo gives new customers up to $1,000 in bonus bets – up to $100 a day for the first 10 days after you open your new account.

To participate, you must place a qualifying wager of $5 or more on any market with odds of -200 or longer each day. Once that bet settles, you will receive a bonus bet equal to the amount of your wager, up to $100.

Bettors in Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio and Tennessee can earn up to $1,500 in bonus bets for their first 11 days as a new customer — a first-bet match up to $500 on their first day and a match of up to $100 for the next 10 days.

Best MLB Betting Promos: bet365 Bonus Code SBKWIRE

If you like to control your betting experience, bet365 lets you be the boss from the jump. When you set up a bet365 account with the bet365 bonus code SBKWIRE , you get to choose whether to grab $150 in bonus bets (just for making a $5 first bet) or to seize the First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000. It is the most flexible of MLB betting promos .

If you go the bonus bets route, you’re sent $150 in bonus bets immediately upon placing your $5 first bet on Major League Baseball (or anything else) on the bet365 site. If you prefer the First Bet Safety Net, then bet365 backs you when you make a first bet in the $10 to $1,000 range. If that first bet happens to lose, bet365 returns the amount of your wager to you in bonus bets. You’ll get seven days to use your bonus bets. Whenever one wins, enjoy the profit in cash.

Best MLB Betting Promos & Bonuses: DraftKings

The DraftKings promo code gives new users who sign up and make a minimum first wager of $5, $150 in bonus bets. Your first bet doesn’t even need to win – or even settle. You’ll get six $25 bonus bets as soon as you make your first wager of $5 or more.

Those bonus bets have a seven-day expiration, and anything you win while playing the bonus bets is yours.

Best MLB Sportsbook Promos & Betting Bonuses: FanDuel

While we’re on the MLB betting promos bonus bets train, let’s check out our final welcome offer: Register for a FanDuel account with the FanDuel promo code and, when you place a $5 first bet, you’ll earn $150 in bonus bets if that bet wins.

Obviously, you want to win this $5 first bet, so try to find the biggest favorites on the FanDuel site and back them on the moneyline. You can look outside of MLB for such a big favorite, which can often be found in UFC odds .

Your bonus bets will hit your account within 72 hours after your first bet settles and you have seven days to use them. One cool thing: FanDuel allows you to chop that $200 into as many (or as few) bonus bets as you want to make. Each time one wins, you win cash.

How to Sign Up for MLB Betting Promos & Bonuses

Signing up for these MLB betting promos and bonuses is simple and only takes a few minutes. These MLB sportsbook promos all have similar sign-up procedures along these lines:

• Tap on the BET NOW on this page next to the offer or offers you like.
• Select your state if asked and provide the registration information required, which will include name, date of birth, last four digits of your Social Security number, email address, a username and proof of age and identity (typically a government-issued ID).
• Provide the promo code we have listed if it is not auto filled – typically tapping BET NOW is all you will have to do.
• Make the minimum first deposit.

How to Use MLB Betting Promos

Ok, you have signed up for some of these MLB betting promos and are ready to make that first bet. If you haven’t bet on baseball before, you’re in for a treat because there are a million ways to make the best MLB bets today. Because the Texas Rangers are the reigning World Series champs, let’s use them as an example. Of course, you can bet the traditional moneyline, the total or the run line.

The moneyline and totals are self-explanatory, but some bettors may be a bit confused by the run line. Unlike in football and basketball where the spread can range into double digits depending on the strength of the two teams and balances the odds at -110 on both sides, the run line is always set at +1.5 or -1.5 and the odds can vary.

Then, depending on which of the nation’s best online sportsbooks you’re using, you can get as detailed as you like. On BetMGM, you can wager on what happens with Texas starter Nathan Eovaldi’s first pitch (Strike? Ball? In play?) along with a bunch of other signature bets. Caesars Sportsbook, bet365, FanDuel and DraftKings have their own special spins on every game. You can bet on player prop bets – will your favorite player hit a homer, how many strikeouts will your starter get – and team props such as which team leads after five innings or team total runs.

More Markets to Wager on Using MLB Betting Promos & Bonuses

The Los Angeles Dodgers flexed their financial muscle during the offseason to land the biggest free-agent prizes in Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto and also acquire pitching ace Tyler Glasnow. These moves have made the Dodgers the betting favorite to win the World Series, which would be their first in a full season since 1988.

If you’re looking to wager on long-range MLB futures this season, then you can click the Futures tab on any of the sports betting apps we have listed and find a gazillion ways to play — even if your favorite team isn’t likely to contend.

For example, we visited the Caesars Sportsbook page before Opening Day and there are 450 different World Series exactas available. A Chicago White Sox fan can get +80000 odds on the Sox beating the Atlanta Braves in the World Series. Hey, New York Mets fans, you want +100000 odds? Simply bet on the Mets to lose to the Tampa Bay Rays in the Fall Classic. These odds and markets will change throughout the season, so be sure to keep checking them.

Your first step in to sign up for some of these MLB betting promos and bonuses. Load up on bonus bets and protected bets and make your best MLB bets today pay off.

Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. Terms apply, see operator site for Terms and Conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ, OH), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN). Must be 21 or older to gamble. Sports betting and gambling are not legal in all locations. Be sure to comply with laws applicable where you reside.

More Stories

Sportsbook reviews.

BetMGM Review Caesars Review Fanatics Review bet365 Review DraftKings Review FanDuel Review BetRivers Review

Sports Betting Resources

Sports Scores and Odds Hub Sports Betting Legality Map Parlay Calculator

Most Popular

Colorado rockies at arizona diamondbacks odds, picks and predictions, kansas city royals at minnesota twins odds, picks and predictions, pittsburgh pirates at san diego padres odds, picks and predictions, miami marlins at philadelphia phillies odds, picks and predictions, houston astros at tampa bay rays odds, picks and predictions, atlanta braves at san francisco giants odds, picks and predictions, seattle mariners at detroit tigers odds, picks and predictions.

Please enter an email address.

Thanks for signing up.

Please check your email for a confirmation.

Something went wrong.

The 30 Best Romantic Vampire Books – Ultimate Guide

The vampire romance niche is a literary gold mine, brimming with exciting storylines, creative characters, and delightful forbidden love stories. Typically grouped into the wider paranormal romance sub-genre, readers who enjoy myth, magic, and monsters in their books will love a good vampire romance. 

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris 

Charlaine Harris’s infamous thirteen-book Sookie Stackhouse series is well-loved for its addicting writing style and unique plot. It is best known for inspiring the popular HBO original True Blood series. 

The first in the series, Dead Until Dark, follows the eponymous cocktail waitress Sookie Stackhouse who is decidedly average beyond one detail — she can read minds. Her mind reading has seriously halted her dating life until she meets Bill Compton: he’s tall, dark, and handsome, but most importantly, she can’t read a single one of his thoughts. 

The catch? Bill is a vampire, and his reputation is far from pristine. Maybe he isn’t the dream boyfriend Sookie had thought he was. 

You can buy Dead Until Dark here , and make sure to check out the rest of the series for more riveting paranormal reading. 

Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost 

Halfway to the Grave is the first book in the internationally bestselling ten-book Night Huntress series, which is beloved for its exciting worldbuilding and a lovable romantic duo at its center. 

Meet Catherine Crawfield: she’s a half-vampire with a vengeance against the undead — in particular, her father, who she sees as responsible for ruining her mother’s life. Cat is captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, and the two of them strike up a deal, working and training together instead of against each other. But trouble looms on the horizon, and their newfound partnership is about to be tested. 

You can purchase Halfway to the Grave here , and be sure to check out the rest of the Night Huntress series for more chills and thrills. 

Twilight by Stephenie Meyer 

Arguably the most popular vampire romance novel written in the 21st century, Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight is universally adored by readers both young and old. 

In this beloved young adult love story , Bella Swan is disheartened after a move to the small, rainy town of Forks, Washington. Her opinion is swayed when she meets the mysterious and attractive Edward Cullen, who is perfect in every way but with one big secret: he’s a vampire. When outside forces threaten to expose Edward’s vampire identity and endanger everyone he holds dear, Edward and Bella are forced to make hard decisions to protect themselves, each other, and their hearts. 

You can buy Twilight here , and fans of the series will also want to check out the recently published companion novel, Midnight Sun . 

Dark Lover by J. R. Ward 

J. R. Ward’s twenty-one-book Black Dagger Brotherhood series has everything a good vampire romance needs: it’s suspenseful, sensual, and full of adrenaline-pumping twists. 

The series debuts with Dark Lover , the story of Wrath, the last remaining purebred vampire. Wrath is on the hunt to settle a score with the slayers who killed his parents many years back, but a wrench is thrown into his plans when one of his finest fighters is killed. This fighter left behind a half-breed daughter, unaware of her own destiny, and Wrath sets out to return this woman to where she belongs. The two are drawn to each other like magnets — but dangerous secrets threaten to tear them apart. 

You can purchase Dark Lover here , and prepare to fall head over heels for this alluring vampire series. 

Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz 

Set in the glitz and glam of New York City, Blue Bloods is a posh paranormal reading experience that you won’t be able to put down.

Protagonist Schuyler Van Allen is undergoing a frightening transformation — her veins are turning blue, and she’s experiencing unwelcome urges — all while she’s trying to navigate the ups and downs of her sophisticated private school. All of a sudden, one of Schuyler’s classmates turns up dead, and she’s determined to get to the bottom of what happened. But can she do that without putting herself in more danger? 

You can buy Blue Bloods here , and there are eight more installations in the series for readers who can’t get enough of Melissa de la Cruz’s sharp writing. 

A Fate of Wrath and Flame by K. A. Tucker 

If you’re looking for mesmerizing worldbuilding, well-developed characters, and delicious slow-burn romance, then look no further than K. A. Tucker’s A Fate of Wrath and Flame . 

Romeria is a successful thief for a crime boss in New York City when she gets plunged into another realm — one that’s full of elemental magic and fantastic species warring for a throne. In this fantasy world, Romeria has assumed the identity of a captured Ybarisan princess, betrothed to King Zander. Soon monstrous truths will come to light, and Romeria’s life — both back home, and as the elusive princess — will be threatened to the point of no return. 

You can purchase A Fate of Wrath and Flame here , and prepare to be drawn into a fictional world that’s as rich and layered as your very own. 

Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon 

Sherrilyn Kenyon’s gripping twenty-two-book Dark-Hunter series presents a unique twist on traditional vampire lore, combining paranormal activities with elements of Greek Mythology. 

The series kicks off with Night Pleasures , which follows the story of regular accountant Amanda Devereaux and the fateful day when she wakes up tied to a Dark-Hunter named Kyrian. Amanda isn’t sure what a Dark-Hunter is, but she’s confident that he isn’t human. Even worse, the pair discovers that they were tied up by a lethal vampire who is after not only their lives but the rest of the world after them. 

Amanda doesn’t trust Kyrian, and Kyrian certainly doesn’t trust Amanda, but they’re unlikely to escape hostage if they don’t find a way to work together (and fast). Mythology mystery and paranormal peril await. 

You can buy Night Pleasures here , and make sure to check out the rest of the series for more mystery and madness. 

King of Battle and Blood by Scarlett St. Clair

Scarlett St. Clair’s most recent book, King of Battle and Blood, was an instant bestseller following its release — and readers will understand why within the first few seductive pages. 

Readers are introduced to Isolde de Lara, who is set to marry the vampire king Adrian Aleksandr Vasiliev — then kill him. Her assassination attempt goes awry, and Adrian threatens her with a fate she can’t ignore: if she tries to kill him again, he will raise her as one of the undead.

 Isolde is forced into submission, and as she fights to survive in the vampire court, she’s faced with a question that will rock her world: why did Adrian choose her as his consort? And why can’t she just ignore the chemistry between them, when he is everything that she despises? 

You can purchase King of Battle and Blood here , and make sure to check out its equally alluring sequel, Queen of Myth and Monsters , once you’ve finished the first. 

Taken by Fate by Shannon Mayer 

Hilarious modern dialogue and a heavy dose of romance line the pages of Shannon Mayer’s delightful, trope-driven novel Taken by Fate . 

The book’s lead, Sienna, narrowly escapes being sold to werewolves only to suffer a fate that’s debatably even worse. She’s been taken captive by vampires and is being forced to participate in the Harvest Games, a twisted game with survival at the finish line. Sienna should be furious with her captors, and she is at first… but the General of the Vampire Army just might change her mind. 

You can buy Taken by Fate here , and get ready for a slow-burn vampire romance that will have you reading long into the morning. 

Reborn Yesterday by Tessa Bailey 

Best known for her contemporary rom-coms, Tessa Bailey showcases her expertise in writing genre-bending romances with Reborn Yesterday , a standalone vampire novel. 

Meet Ginny Lynn: she’s the director of a funeral home, who gets put into a particularly sticky situation when the man on her embalming table wakes up . Or, she thought he was a man… Jonas Cantrell is a vampire, and he is required to wipe Ginny’s memories of the embalming incident to protect his vampiric identity. But before Jonas can do that, Ginny reveals a secret that brings both their worlds to a crash. 

You can purchase Reborn Yesterday here , and check out the companion novels This Time Tomorrow and Today Tomorrow and Always for more quirky vampire romance reads. 

From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout 

From Blood and Ash is a steamy, escapist read from the accomplished paranormal novelist Jennifer L. Armentrout. 

Set in a frightening fantasy realm that’s teeming with monsters and magic, From Blood and Ash follows the story of Poppy, a woman with a life that has never been her own. With the entire kingdom resting on Poppy’s shoulders, she must choose between the future that was chosen for her and the possibility of finding love. But Poppy’s choices have bloody consequences, and the gods are unlikely to approve of the path that lies ahead. 

You can buy From Blood and Ash here , and readers will also enjoy the companion Flesh and Fire series. 

Blood Orange by Karina Halle 

Gothic spice abounds in Karina Halle’s dark standalone romance, Blood Orange — a creative Dracula retelling that will have you flipping pages like no other.

Blood Orange tells the story of Dahlia Abernathy, whose parents were killed by vampires when she was young, leading her to study under the Witch’s Guild and learn how to slay vampires. Dahlia is sent undercover to study with and eventually kill a prestigious vampire, Professor Valtu Aminof. She was prepared for danger, but nothing could’ve prepared her for the consequences of falling for the very vampire that she was sent to kill. 

You can purchase Blood Orange here , and prepare for an unputdownable reading experience. 

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead 

Richelle Mead’s six-book Vampire Academy series was written for young adults but has gained popularity with adult readers as well thanks to its witty writing and unique storyline. 

Half-human teens and vampires meet at St. Vladimir’s Academy, a prep school for training in magic, defense, and survival. Vampire Princess Lissa and her best friend/bodyguard Rose Hathaway are quickly enmeshed in forbidden romance, dangerous rituals, and the Academy’s sparkling social scene. 

You can buy Vampire Academy here , and fans of the series will also enjoy the six-book companion series called Bloodlines . 

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice 

Nobody writes vampire fiction quite like the reputable Anne Rice , and Interview with the Vampire is her iconic writing at its finest. 

In this classic work of paranormal fiction, a vampire by the name of Louis de Pointe lu Lac relays his centuries-long life story to a reporter. Louis was not born a vampire, but he became one — transformed by the menacing Lestat de Lioncourt — and the two begin an infamous journey full of sensual discovery and chilling loss. 

You can purchase Interview with the Vampire here , and see for yourself where the vampire genre gained its popularity. 

Morrigan’s Cross by Nora Roberts

Morrigan’s Cross is a well-written installation in the vampire romance genre, authored by the deeply popular Nora Roberts , and kicking off a sizzling paranormal trilogy that you won’t want to miss. 

Hoyt Mac Cionaoith lost his twin brother to the allure of the vampire Lilith, who has doomed many men to a heart-stopping fate with one ill-intended kiss. Under the guidance of the goddess Morrigan, Hoyt sets out to wreak vengeance on Lilith, but he’s going to need more than just himself to bring down the cunning vampire.

You can buy Morrigan’s Cross here , and make sure to check out the supernatural sequels: Dance of the Gods and Valley of Silence .  

The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening by L. J. Smith 

The Vampire Diaries is more than just a hit television show: the hype all began with L. J. Smith’s entertaining four-book vampire drama, which was targeted at teen readers but maintained cross-generational appeal. 

In the first book in the series, The Awakening , high school golden girl Elena Gilbert has her sights set on the mysterious Stefan Salvatore — but for reasons she doesn’t understand, he isn’t interested. Elena could never guess the real reason that Stefan is keeping his distance, which is that he is a vampire, and the closer he gets to Elena the more danger he is putting her in. 

Stefan struggles to resist Elena, but things are about to get a lot worse: Stefan’s dark and handsome brother Damon is in town. And where Damon goes, trouble always follows. 

You can purchase The Awakening here , and be sure to check out the rest of the series for more romantic tension and paranormal fun. 

Happy Hour at Casa Dracula by Marta Acosta 

Hilarious, sexy, and unputdownable: Marta Acosta’s series debut, Happy Hour at Casa Dracula, is the paranormal rom-com that readers have been waiting for. 

The novel’s heroine, Milagro, is a book-loving Latina vampire who falls into serious trouble when a passionate kiss leads to an accidental infection and she starts craving blood. As if matters couldn’t get any worse, her ex tries to kidnap her right after! Being a vampire is not all it’s cracked up to be — and for Milagro, this is only the beginning of the disaster. 

You can buy Happy Hour at Casa Dracula here , and prepare for a read that will have you (unsuccessfully) holding in your laughter from start to finish. 

Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton 

It’s impossible to talk about the best vampire romances without mentioning Laurell K. Hamilton’s twenty-nine book Anita Blake , Vampire Hunter series. The series is a picture-perfect blend of horror, romance, and action-packed adventure, with enough suspense to keep even the most reluctant reader hooked. 

The series debut, Guilty Pleasures , introduces the beloved Anita Blake: her job is to kill the undead, and vampires are dangerous territory. When she’s asked to solve a series of violent slayings, she realizes that she might be in over her head, for this next job might force her to confront her growing attraction to master vampire Jean-Claude. The only problem? Jean-Claude is on her hit list. 

You can purchase Guilty Pleasures here , and you’re sure to be clamoring for the next book in the extensive series in no time. 

Lost Souls by Poppy Z. Brite 

Poppy Z. Brite’s gritty horror novel Lost Souls is an ensemble vampire tale that is as frightening as it is fantastic. 

From a fateful meeting at a nightclub in North Carolina to an illicit road trip across state lines, Lost Souls follows the connections between a group of loner humans and a trio of troubled vampires. They embark on a journey in the search of power, purpose, and truth — with no end of forbidden desires and hidden truths along the way. 

You can buy Lost Souls here , and prepare for a gritty, unforgettable book that will keep you up at night.

Unchained by Helen Hardt 

Brooding vampire heroes and never-ending twists and turns line the pages of Helen Hardt’s five-book Blood Bond Saga, the first of which is Unchained. 

Meet Erin Hamilton: she’s an ER nurse working a hectic night shift when she stumbles upon a strange man vandalizing the hospital blood bank. That man is Dante Gabriel, and he’s actually a vampire: enslaved for years to a female vampire, he finally escaped and is on the prowl for a way to sate his hunger. 

The two of them have nothing in common beyond the chemistry that pulls them together. That is until Dante discovers a secret about Erin that could bring them closer to each other — or keep them apart for eternity. 

You can purchase Unchained here , and you’re sure to enjoy this rousing start to the beloved vampire romance series. 

The Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black 

Traditional vampire romance tropes get a fresh and funky twist in Holly Black’s young adult standalone novel, The Coldest Girl in Coldtown. 

Enter a world similar to ours but with a dangerous difference: multiple walled cities known as Coldtowns exist, where humans, vampires, and everything in between run wild. Tana lives apart from the Coldtowns until she wakes up one morning surrounded by corpses, with her boyfriend infected and she knows what she has to do: to save the people she loves, she must go to the place that she fears the most. 

You can buy The Coldest Girl in Coldtown here , and prepare for a riveting read that you won’t want to put down. 

Carmilla by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu 

Originally published in 1872, Carmilla is one of the longest-lasting vampire romances that continues to dazzle readers to this day. 

This gothic novella follows the story of Laura, a young woman who is living alone with her retired father. She longs for a companion of her age, and one day she gets her wish when a carriage accident brings the seemingly young Carmilla into Laura’s home. But Carmilla is not who she seems to be, and Laura’s health quickly begins declining as she falls prey to the vampiric allure of the cunning woman beside her. 

You can purchase Carmilla here , and experience for yourself the story that started it all. 

Undead and Unwed by MaryJanice Davidson 

Drop-dead funny and wickedly romantic, MaryJanice Davidson’s series starter Undead and Unwed is a wild ride that book lovers won’t want to miss. 

It all started when Betsy Taylor was killed in a car accident — but that’s far from the ending because no matter what happens Betsy just keeps coming back to life. When Betsy’s friends suggest that she might be the long-prophesied vampire queen, she’s unsure how to react; but in no time she has set off to overthrow a power-hungry vampire and claim her rightful throne. 

You can buy Undead and Unwed here , and you’ll want to check out the next fourteen books in the series for more vampiric hijinks! 

Sunshine by Robin McKinley 

Robin McKinley’s Sunshine is a rewarding romantic fantasy full of troublesome vampires, page-turning mystery, and cozy small-town vibes. 

Rae Seddon, affectionately known as Sunshine, is the head baker at her family’s business — and she’s in serious need of a break. She retreats to her family’s lakeside cabin for some alone time, but alone time is hard to come by when you’ve just crashed the local vampires’ latest hangout spot. 

You can purchase Sunshine here , and prepare to enter a captivating world that you might not ever want to leave. 

Insatiable by Meg Cabot 

Meg Cabot has written a plethora of fun and inviting fantasy novels, and her foray into the vampire romance genre with Insatiable is no exception. 

Meet Meena Harper: she’s gifted with the ability to see other people’s futures, yet she’s never been able to get a glimpse into her own. That explains why she doesn’t see any red flags when she meets Lucien, a man to whom she finds herself increasingly attracted. The only problem? Lucien is already dead, and he has some very powerful enemies. 

You can buy Insatiable here , and be sure to check out the equally thrilling sequel Overbite for more of your reading pleasure. 

Some Girls Bite by Chloe Neill 

Some Girls Bite is the first book in the Chicagoland Vampires series: they’re bitingly funny, action-packed, and full of spice.

Readers are introduced to Merit, a graduate student who is doing just fine until the day when a rogue vampire attacks her — and another vampire saves her life. That is, preserved her life? He transformed Merit into a vampire herself, and she is inducted into a society of vampires. 

Who needs time to adjust? In no time, Merit is on high alert — not only is her rescuer, Ethan, being a royal pain, but her attacker is still after her life. Things just got complicated. 

You can purchase Some Girls Bite here , and the series spans thirteen more books that you’ll be eager to check out once you finish the first. 

Dark Prince by Christine Feehan 

If you’re looking for a sensual, slow-burn love story paired with action-packed twists and turns, then look no further than The Dark Saga by the inimitable Christine Feehan. 

The first in the series is Dark Prince , which introduces readers to a multifaceted realm of vampires, telepaths, and magic. Raven Whitney, who hunts serial killers using telepathy, hears the telepathic cries of Mikhail Dubrinsky, only to learn that he is her life mate. Can the two find each other amidst a world of danger and deception?

You can buy Dark Prince here , and be sure to check out the thirty-six books remaining in the series once you’re finished with the first. 

High Stakes by Erin McCarthy

Get ready to laugh while reading Erin McCarthy’s hilarious vampire novel High Stakes , the first in the four-book Vegas Vampires series. 

Ethan Carrick considers himself to be a nice guy — he’s also a vampire, a politician, and he owns a casino. As if that isn’t enough to have on his plate, he’s desperate to find somebody to be his First Lady — if only the fierce and sometimes frightening Alexis would let him have his way. 

You can purchase High Stakes here , and prepare to be rooting for Ethan and Alexis’s love story before they even begin rooting for themselves. 

Crave by Tracy Wolff 

Tracy Wolff’s wildly popular Crave series has gained an impressive cult following, known best for its swoon-worthy romance and captivating storyline. The six-book series begins with Crave, and although written for a young adult audience, the novel has become well-loved in the new adult and adult literary communities as well. 

Set inside a mysterious boarding school in Alaska, the novel’s heroine, Grace, immediately suspects that something is off about her new surroundings — and her most terrifying guesses are terribly close to the truth. Grace meets Jaxon, a vampire who hasn’t felt anything in centuries, but he is immediately drawn to her without knowing why. 

The secrets that shroud Jaxon spell impending doom for Grace, but she won’t go down without a fight. 

You can buy Crave here , and make sure to check out the next five books in the series for more nail-biting suspense. 

A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness 

Rich worldbuilding and tantalizing romance make Deborah Harkness’s A Discovery of Witches an absolute must-read. This novel kicks off a bestselling series of books, as well as being the inspiration for a hit television show — so get ready to see what all the hype is about. 

In A Discovery of Witches , readers are introduced to Diana Bishop, a student at Oxford who is also a descendant of witches. She chooses to ignore her abilities as a witch until her studies bring her face-to-face with magic: an enchanted manuscript she comes across opens up a whole new world. 

With a vampire geneticist named Matthew Clairmont at her side, Diana sets out to explore this newly discovered underworld. Little does she know the danger that lies in wait for her, nor could she predict the consequences of what might happen when a reluctant witch and an intelligent vampire fall for one another. 

You can purchase A Discovery of Witches here , and prepare to embark on a reading experience that will keep you reading late into the night. 

FAQs: 

What is the best vampire romance .

It is nearly impossible to pick just one vampire romance novel — but the above list of thirty romantic vampire stories is guaranteed to entertain you! 

What is the most popular vampire?

The most popular vampire is Count Dracula, who first appeared in Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula which was written in 1897.

Are vampires sci-fi or fantasy?

Vampire novels are typically classed under the fantasy genre, although there are certainly exceptions to that rule.

What is the vampire genre called?

Vampires are considered to be supernatural, and/or paranormal. Vampires also exist in many fictional fantasy realms.

What should I read if I like vampires?

The above list of thirty vampire romance novels is perfect reading material for fans of vampires.

• Recent Posts
• Best Danielle Steel Books – All Her Novels Ranked - April 5, 2023
• All Jane Austen Books Ranked – Complete Guide - April 5, 2023
• The 30 Best College Romance Books of All Time - March 31, 2023

Related Posts:

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

‘It Ends With Us,’ a Romance Based on a Best Seller, Soars at the Box Office

The film, which cost $25 million to make, is on track to earn an estimated $50 million in North America on its opening weekend, analysts say.

By Nicole Sperling

Colleen Hoover’s book “It Ends With Us” has been a fixture on the best-seller list for years. And now, the movie adaptation has become a smash at the box office. The $25 million film from Sony Pictures is on track to earn an estimated $50 million in the United States and Canada, box office analysts say.

Starring Blake Lively, the romance is based on Ms. Hoover’s most popular book — one that was initially released in 2016 but reappeared on the best-seller list in the midst of the pandemic in 2021 and has since spent some 140 weeks there. Buoyed by TikTok, the book, about a complicated love triangle with undertones of domestic violence, has sold 8 million copies and found fans worldwide.

The low-budget film comes at a time when there has been little in the marketplace geared to women, in contrast with last summer when “Barbie” earned $1.4 billion worldwide and became the highest-grossing film of the year. Sony took advantage of this dearth in the marketplace with a potent social media campaign that featured Ms. Lively, guest appearances by her husband, Ryan Reynolds, and the help of her friend Taylor Swift, who contributed the song “My Tears Ricochet” to the film and the trailer.

On Friday alone, the PG-13 rated film earned more than $24 million as audiences tuned in to see Ms. Lively play a florist with a challenging past who falls for a sexy, abusive neurosurgeon played by Justin Baldoni, who also directed the film. It took in another $13.7 million on Saturday and is projected to earn about $12 million on Sunday.

The film’s performance is a welcome boost for the box office, which is still down some 16 percent since last year at this time.

“Pure romance is not a big performer at the box office, but occasionally the right story based on the right book comes along, and with a well-cast female lead the movie catches fire,” said David A. Gross, a film consultant who publishes a newsletter on box office numbers. “That’s happening here.”

Reviews have been middling. The New York Times called it “fitfully diverting, at times touching, often ridiculous and, at 2 hours and 10 minutes, almost offensively long.” Yet audiences are giving it high marks. The Rotten Tomatoes audience score is hovering at 94 percent positive and the exit score, as recorded by tracking service CinemaScore, is A-.

The film will just miss the No. 1 slot for the weekend with Mr. Reynolds’s hit, “Deadpool vs. Wolverine,” holding on for its third frame. The Marvel movie will soon cross the $500 million threshold.

Things weren’t as rosy for the Lionsgate adaptation of the video game “Borderlands,” which despite the star power of Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart and Jack Black, took in an estimated $8.8 million. It was a total misfire for the $115 million sci-fi comedy from the director Eli Roth.

Nicole Sperling covers Hollywood and the streaming industry. She has been a reporter for more than two decades. More about Nicole Sperling