Vampire Fiction Recommendations

Vampires have been a staple of the horror and fantasy genres for centuries, and they continue to capture the imaginations of readers today. From classic novels to modern series, here are some of the best vampire fiction books that you should sink your teeth into.

Dracula - by Bram Stoker

One of the most famous vampire novels of all time, Dracula was first published in 1897 and has inspired countless adaptations in film, television, and literature. The novel follows a young lawyer named Jonathan Harker as he travels to Transylvania to assist a wealthy nobleman named Count Dracula. However, he soon discovers that his host is actually a vampire who is intent on spreading his curse to England.

Interview with the Vampire - by Anne Rice
Published in 1976, Interview with the Vampire is the first book in Anne Rice's popular Vampire Chronicles series. The novel is told from the perspective of Louis de Pointe du Lac, a 200-year-old vampire who recounts his life story to a journalist. Through Louis's story, readers are introduced to the complex world of vampires, including their origins, powers, and struggles.

Salem's Lot - by Stephen King

Stephen King's second novel, Salem's Lot, was published in 1975 and tells the story of a small town in Maine that is overrun by vampires. The novel follows a diverse cast of characters as they try to survive and defeat the vampire threat, including a writer named Ben Mears, a young boy named Mark Petrie, and a priest named Father Callahan.

The Vampire Lestat - by Anne Rice

The second book in the Vampire Chronicles series, The Vampire Lestat was published in 1985 and focuses on the life of Lestat de Lioncourt, a charismatic and powerful vampire who becomes a rock star in the 1980s. Through Lestat's story, readers learn more about the history and society of vampires, as well as the conflicts and alliances that exist within their ranks.

Let the Right One In - by John Ajvide Lindqvist

Originally published in Sweden in 2004, Let the Right One In is a unique and haunting vampire novel that explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and love. The novel follows a young boy named Oskar who befriends a strange girl named Eli, who is actually a vampire. As their relationship deepens, Oskar begins to learn more about Eli's past and the dangers that surround her.

The Historian - by Elizabeth Kostova

Published in 2005, The Historian is a literary thriller that combines historical research, supernatural elements, and travelogue. The novel follows a young woman named Paul who sets out to discover the truth behind her father's obsession with Dracula. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers a web of secrets and conspiracies that span centuries and continents.

The Passage - by Justin Cronin

The first book in a trilogy, The Passage was published in 2010 and tells the story of a viral outbreak that transforms humans into vampire-like creatures called "virals." The novel follows a diverse group of survivors as they try to stay alive and find a way to defeat the virals, including a young girl named Amy who may hold the key to their salvation.

Bloodsucking Fiends - by Christopher Moore

For readers who prefer their vampire fiction with a touch of humor, Bloodsucking Fiends is the perfect choice. Published in 1995, the novel follows a young man named Jody who is turned into a vampire and must navigate his new undead life with the help of his human girlfriend, a quirky cast of characters, and a foul-mouthed vampire mentor.

If you decide to read any of these, remember to read the descriptions. Many of these works include and explore dark themes and dubious or reprehensible morals. There is nothing wrong with curating the media you choose to engage with, and not everything is for everyone.

~ Steph