The 8 Best Vampire Books Not Written by Anne Rice

While Anne Rice is the undisputed master of modern vampire stories, there are other authors who have crafted exceptional vampire tales not written by her. To celebrate the spooky season, here are eight of the best vampire books you should read.

First up is Stephen King's Salem's Lot, published a year after his debut novel, Carrie. Set in Maine, the story follows Ben Mears as he returns to his hometown seeking inspiration for his next book. As he investigates an abandoned mansion and the tragic death of a young boy, he discovers the town's residents are being turned into vampires. King's focus on the horrors of Maine and Ben's struggle against the vampire menace makes this a chilling read.

For a unique take on the vampire genre, try I Am Legend by Richard Matheson. While the 2007 film adaptation starred Will Smith, the original novel focuses on a lone survivor of a plague that transformed most humans into vampires. Matheson's book is darker than the movie, delving into the themes of loneliness and being left behind in a changed world.

If you're looking for a vampire story set in a different time and place, check out Let the Right One In by John Lindqvist. The novel is set in 1980s Stockholm and follows a bullied 12-year-old boy named Oskar who befriends a vampire named Eli, who is trapped in the body of a child forever. The book provides more details on Eli's origins and her relationship with her adult guardian. It's worth reading the book, especially as the 2024 film adaptation is considered mediocre.

Another must-read is The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova. This rich retelling of the Dracula story uses a series of letters and testimonials to follow three generations of scholars as they travel the world in search of the truth about Vlad the Impaler. The book combines ancient history, mythology, and personal tales of love and vengeance, making it a beautiful and fascinating read.