As the crisp autumn air settles in and the days grow shorter, there’s no better time to curl up with a good book. If you’re drawn to the mysterious allure of vampires and the chilling thrill of suspense, this list is for you.

 

Carmilla and Laura

Carmilla and Laura by J.D. Simper is a modern retelling inspired by the classic vampire novella Carmilla by J. Sheridan Le Fanu. In this retelling, the story follows Laura, a young woman who has led a rather mundane life until she meets Carmilla, a mysterious and captivating stranger. Laura becomes immediately entranced by her, but as their connection deepens, Laura’s health begins to deteriorate, and she starts to notice eerie disappearances of young women in the neighborhood. The novel weaves together themes of obsession, mystery, and the supernatural, while expanding upon the complex, intense relationship between Laura and Carmilla. Perfect for fans of gothic romance, this book offers a fresh, dark twist on the original Carmilla story, blending modern sensibilities with classic vampire lore.

 

House of hunger

I devoured House of Hunger in no time—it’s one of those books that pulls you in and doesn’t let go. The story follows Marion Shaw, a young woman who grows up in the slums and is desperate to escape. She applies to become a bloodmaid at a wealthy noble house, where the aristocrats indulge in the terrifying practice of feasting on the blood of their servants. As the newest bloodmaid, Marion gets pulled deeper into the house’s dark secrets and dangerous desires. What really captivated me was how Alexis Henderson blends lush, atmospheric writing with an intense, fast-paced plot that keeps you turning pages. The themes of power, survival, and sacrifice are woven in so well, making the book impossible to put down.

 

Six scorched roses

Six Scorched Roses, written by Carissa Broadbent is a short but impactful novel that fits within the Crowns of Nyaxia series, though it works perfectly as a stand-alone read. Despite its brevity, the book delves deeply into its characters, offering surprising emotional depth and poetic prose that elevates the story. The protagonist suffers from a mysterious illness she has come to accept, but when the rest of her city begins to fall ill as well, she desperately seeks out the one person who may be able to help—a vampire with whom she must make seven visits. Each visit is symbolized by one of the “six scorched roses,” representing the stages of hope, fear, and the possible cure. Six Scorched Roses blends elements of mystery, dark romance, and supernatural intrigue, making it a standout among vampire novels.

 

A Dowry of blood

I couldn’t put A Dowry of Blood down—it’s a beautifully haunting story about Dracula’s wife, told from her perspective. What I absolutely love about this book is how the author takes you through hundreds of years, making you feel every moment of the protagonist’s long, tortured existence. The writing is so poetic and immersive, capturing the deep emotions, betrayals, and complexities of a woman bound to a centuries-old vampire. The way the story explores themes of love, power, and freedom is so powerful and thought-provoking. It’s a dark, tragic love story that will stay with you long after you finish. If you’re drawn to gothic romance with depth and soul, this is a must-read.