Diving into the kaleidoscope of queer stories, amplifying LGBTQ+ authors one narrative at a time.
Vampires have been a captivating and enduring fixture in literature and pop culture for centuries. From Bram Stoker’s classic novel Dracula to modern hits like Twilight and The Vampire Diaries, the vampire trope has been reinvented and reimagined repeatedly.
Recently, there has been a rise in gay vampire literature, providing a platform for the LGBTQ+ community within the genre and offering a new perspective (a.k.a same-sex love) on the classic vampire trope.
These gay vampire books delve deeper into the complexities of the human experience, specifically through the lens of the gay experience. They explore love, sacrifice, acceptance, and the search for belonging in a world that often doesn’t understand or accept them.
Gay vampire literature also provides a new way to look at traditional vampire tales and create new and exciting stories.
In this article, we will be reviewing 10 gay vampire books offering diverse perspectives and styles. From historical fiction to contemporary fantasy, these books will take you on a journey through time and space, exploring the many facets of the gay vampire experience.
They will introduce you to new and exciting characters, worlds, and stories and give you a new way to look at the traditional vampire trope. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the genre or new to the world of gay vampire literature, these books will surely captivate and enthrall you.
They are a perfect blend of familiar and new, and they will challenge your preconceptions about what is possible in vampire literature.
Don't have time to read them all? Why not try listening to them? Audible is a great platform for listening to audiobooks because it offers a wide selection of books, including bestsellers and exclusive content. With Audible, you can listen to your favorite books on-the-go, whether you're commuting, working out, or doing household chores.
The Audible app also has features like adjustable narration speed, a sleep timer, and the ability to create bookmarks, making it easy to customize your listening experience. Additionally, Audible offers a membership program that gives members access to a certain number of audiobooks per month, making it a cost-effective option for avid listeners.
A great resource for people who want to maximize their time and make the most out of their daily activities. Try a free 30-day trial from Audible today, and you'll get access to a selection of Audible Originals and audiobooks, along with a credit to purchase any title in their premium selection, regardless of price (including many of the books on this list!)
For ebook lovers, we also recommend Scribd, basically the Netflix for Books and the best and most convenient subscription for online reading. While they have a catalog comprising over half a million books including from many bestselling authors, for some of the books on this list, you'll still have to purchase individually - either as a paperback or eBook to load on your Kindle - due to publishing house restrictions.
In this article we will cover...
- Vampire with Benefits by E.J. Russell’s
- Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice
- Ex-Wives of Dracula by Georgette Kaplan
- Showers, Flowers, and Fangs by Aiden Wayne
- The Year of the Knife by G.D. Penman
- Carmilla and Laura by SD Simper
- Night Weaver by Madeleine Lycka
- The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gómez
- Terrible Praise by Lara Hayes
- The Beast Without by Christian Baines
Vampire with Benefits by E.J. Russell’s
As a gay person, reading E.J. Russell’s Vampire with Benefits was an incredibly personal and emotional experience.
The novel, the second in the author’s Supernatural Selection series, tells the story of two men – Casimir Moreau, a vampire ordered by the council to mate with an incubus, and Rusty Johnson, an inactive beaver shifter searching for a perfect mate after a heart-wrenching breakup.
Through their intersecting journeys, Russell delves deep into the complexities of love, relationships, and self-discovery. The chemistry between Cas and Rusty crackles on the page, their attraction palpable as they navigate the obstacles of societal expectations and self-doubt.
Reading about two men falling in love and overcoming societal obstacles resonated deeply with me. The novel also explores the nuances of the gay experience with sensitivity rarely seen in popular literature.
Rusty’s struggles as a gay man are rendered with empathy and insight, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the stereotypes often portrayed in genre fiction. As a gay person, I found myself relating to Rusty’s struggles, and it was refreshing to see a gay character portrayed in a positive light and not as a stereotype.
As the novel progresses, the stakes are raised, and the tension mounts as the consequences of the characters’ choices come to a head. The ending, while satisfying, leaves the reader yearning for more, eager to see where Russell takes these beloved characters next.
Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice
In Interview with the Vampire, Anne Rice tells the story of Louis, a young man who is transformed into a vampire by the alluring and enigmatic Lestat. The novel follows Louis as he grapples with the intricacies of immortality, love, and grief.
Through Louis’s perspective, the novel delves into the struggles that come with being a vampire, including the moral quandaries of feeding on humans and the feeling of isolation that eternal life brings.
Louis faces a significant internal battle in the novel as he grapples with his vampire nature. He is tormented by the guilt of taking human lives to sustain himself and the isolation that comes with immortality. An example is when Louis states, “I was a monster, plain and simple. I was the devil himself.”
Many gay readers may resonate with Louis’s struggle as they may have experienced similar conflicts when it comes to accepting and understanding their identities.
As a gay reader, I found myself relating to Louis’s struggles with self-acceptance and isolation. I could imagine my life living in the 21st century feeling the same way as Louis does, struggling to come to terms with my true self and feeling alone in the world.
The novel’s portrayal of the struggles of coming to terms with one’s true self and feeling alone in the world brought me to a state of self-reflection and introspection, which is always an emotional experience.
Ex-Wives of Dracula by Georgette Kaplan
Ex-Wives of Dracula by Georgette Kaplan is a thrilling and comedic novel that has it all – action, comedy, and romance. The story follows Mindy, a straight-A student, as she reconnects with her childhood friend Lucia, who has recently become a vampire. Convinced that killing the vampire that turned Lucia would cure her, the two set out on a journey to find Dracula.
The characters in the book are well-developed and relatable. Lucia West, with her blond hair, blue eyes, and fiery attitude, is a standout character and the novel’s highlight. Her confidence, witty tongue, and insecurities make her an endearing and lovable character.
On the other hand, Mindy is Lucia’s rock – her voice of reason. The two characters couldn’t be more different, but they work together seamlessly.
The book’s writing style is humorous and engaging, with plenty of pop culture references and vulgar language. The action and mystery in the story are also enthralling, making it a page-turner. However, the relationship between Lucia and Mindy is a central focus of the story and is handled beautifully.
It is a beautiful and relatable representation of a same-sex relationship, and it made me, as a gay reader, feel seen and represented in the text. It is refreshing to see a same-sex romance handled with such care, and it adds an extra layer of depth and meaning to the story.
Ex-Wives of Dracula is a must-read novel that offers a thrilling and comedic adventure. The characters, especially Lucia West, are well-developed and relatable, making the story all the more engaging. The
Showers, Flowers, and Fangs by Aiden Wayne
Showers, Flowers, and Fangs is a story that delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and friendship, particularly emphasizing the LGBT and gay experiences.
At the story’s core is Darren, a half-fae teenager struggling with the onset of puberty and the wild fluctuations of his powers. The author manages to explore the complexities of identity and self-acceptance as the protagonist grapples with the unique challenges of being a half-fae and his own gay identity.
Alongside Darren, Vladimir, a vampire, is also struggling to come to terms with his new identity and powers. The author depicts Vladimir’s inner turmoil as he grapples with his past, his family and the weight of being a vampire, and his gay identity.
As the story unfolds, the reader witnesses Vladimir’s transformation from a withdrawn and haunted young man to one confident and comfortable in his skin. The friendship and relationship between Darren and Vladimir provide a positive representation of a gay relationship, which is not often seen in the literature.
However, I found that this book could have benefited from a deeper exploration of the characters’ backgrounds and families, as it felt the story’s pacing was a bit too fast in certain parts, making it difficult to learn the background on a deeper level. But overall, it was an interesting book worth reading.
The Year of the Knife by G.D. Penman
The Year of the Knife, written by G.D. Penman, is a solid work of alternate history, fantasy, and mystery. It tells the story of Sully, a powerful witch and agent with the Imperial Bureau of Investigations, who is tasked with investigating a series of murders committed by possessed corpses in an alternate timeline where New York City is called New Amsterdam, and the colonies never left British rule.
As a gay person reading this book, I was pleased to see Sully’s romantic relationship with her vampire girlfriend. Their relationship adds depth and emotional resonance to the story, and it was refreshing to see a gay relationship portrayed in a fantasy novel.
However, I couldn’t help but notice that the relationship was not explored as deeply as it could have been, and I would have liked to read more intimate moments from the novel.
Penman’s writing is solid, and the world-building is well-done. The action is engaging, and the imagery is vivid. The characters are well-realized, with Sully standing out as a particularly compelling protagonist. She is a complex and multi-faceted character with a rich inner life that the reader can easily relate to.
Her struggles and triumphs drive the story forward and make it difficult to put the book down. However, I would have liked to see better pacing from the author, as the book is uneven at times, and the ending felt rushed.
The Year of the Knife is a solid book that will entertain and engage readers. It’s a good read. G.D. Penman is a talented storyteller, and I look forward to seeing more from this author. As a gay person, I appreciate the representation in the book, but it could have been more developed and explored.
Carmilla and Laura by SD Simper
Carmilla and Laura by SD Simper is a retelling of the classic vampire novella of the same name. The story takes place in the late 19th century when Laura lives a lonely life in a castle in the forest of Styria with only her loving father and two governesses for company.
However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the mysterious and alluring Carmilla. With captivating charm and mysterious habits, Carmilla’s appeal is undeniable, drawing Laura closer with every touch and word.
As their attraction grows, Laura is tempted by a passion that she fears to name. However, when a strange plague begins to take the lives of young women in her home and the village, Laura is forced to confront the possibility that the gentle and fragile woman she loves may be a monster cast out of heaven.
I found this retelling of the classic vampire novella an engaging read. The chemistry between Carmilla and Laura is electric, and their romance is written with skill and sensitivity. The representation of the LGBT community in this novel is positive and inclusive; it was nice to see a same-sex relationship treated with the same depth and emotion as any other romance.
I could personally relate to the struggles of Laura, the main character, as she grapples with her growing love for Carmilla and the fear of societal rejection. This is something that many members of the LGBT community, and certainly my own, can relate to in their own lives.
Carmilla and Laura is a beautifully written and engaging retelling of the classic vampire novella that will leave a lasting impression on readers. It is perfect for a unique and engaging love story with strong LGBT representation and a historical fiction background.
Night Weaver by Madeleine Lycka
Night Weaver by Madeleine Lycka explores the complexities of love, jealousy, and politics, all set within the fantastical realm of vampire lore. The novel centers around three vampire women: Isabel, Ankit, and Arrow, and the intricate relationships they form with one another.
The plot is expertly crafted and unfolds with a sense of inevitability, drawing the reader deeper and deeper into the lives of these captivating characters. Lycka’s writing is rich and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the world in which her characters reside.
The pacing is expertly executed, allowing moments of tension and conflict to build gradually, leading to a satisfying and emotionally charged conclusion.
One of the striking elements of Night Weaver is the portrayal of the same-sex relationship between Ankit and Arrow.
In a society where discrimination and judgment towards the LGBTQ+ community is still a pervasive issue, the relationship between Ankit and Arrow is treated with the same depth and emotion as any other romance, highlighting the universality of love and the complexities that come with it.
In short, Night Weaver is a novel that will resonate with readers long after the final page has been turned. Lycka’s writing is masterful, and it is clear that she is a talent to be reckoned with.
The Gilda Stories by Jewelle Gómez
As a gay person, I found this novel to be an incredibly compelling read. The portrayal of the main character, Gilda, as a Black lesbian vampire, is both unique and powerful, and it made me think about my own experiences of being a minority within the LGBTQIA+ community.
The way the author has crafted the vampire mythology in this story is truly original. The idea that the vampires must keep their “home earth” close to them to maintain their powers is a concept I’ve never encountered before, and it adds richness to the story.
Additionally, the fact that the vampires use their fingernails to draw blood, rather than their teeth and that they can heal the wound magically without a trace is a fascinating aspect of the story.
One aspect of the book that particularly resonated with me was the way it explored the theme of community, particularly within the context of the queer experience. Throughout the book, Gilda repeatedly becomes infatuated with human and vampire women, but we rarely see any sexual interactions.
This underscores the importance of community and belonging for queer people, particularly those who are often forced to exist in the shadows. It made me think about my experiences of feeling like an outsider in some situations and how the sense of community can bring a sense of belonging and acceptance.
This novel is a compelling read that blends elements of historical fiction and Afrofuturism. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh perspective on the vampire genre and for the representation of queer people of color in literature.
Terrible Praise by Lara Hayes
Terrible Praise by Lara Hayes is a masterful exploration of the human condition and complexities of the queer experience. The novel’s central theme is the relationship between Stella, a vampire, and Elizabeth, a mortal.
Stella, with her centuries-old existence, is forced to confront the weight of her immortal life as she struggles with the boredom of her current existence. Meanwhile, Elizabeth’s struggles with her mother’s dementia and the sense of being hunted mirror Stella’s internal battles.
The author’s exploration of the queer experience is particularly noteworthy. The relationship between Stella and Elizabeth is not overtly sexual, but it is steeped in longing and unrequited desire.
The author’s decision to focus on the emotional aspects of their relationship rather than the physical ones, adds layers of complexity and depth often missing in depictions of same-sex relationships in literature.
Terrible Praise is a novel that is not to be missed. The narrative is expertly executed, with the author weaving together elements of the supernatural and the mundane to create a story that is both fantastical and grounded in reality.
The pacing is flawless, and the imagery is evocative and rich. The author’s masterful handling of the themes of identity, longing, and the queer experience, coupled with the superb writing style, make it a must-read for any discerning reader.
The Beast Without by Christian Baines
In Christian Baines’ The Beast Without, the author offers a unique and compelling take on the vampire and werewolf genre, specifically emphasizing the representation of the LGBT community.
Set in the gay clubs of Oxford Street in Sydney, the story follows the protagonist, Reylan, a Blood Shade (vampire) and a gay man, as he navigates a world where the lines between predator and prey are blurred.
Reylan, a loner by nature, is selective about his victims, taking just enough to sustain himself for a few days. However, when a werewolf kills his latest companion, Reylan is forced to confront his past and future in a way he never imagined.
The werewolf, Jorgas, is obsessed with him, putting Reylan and those he cares about at risk. This sets in motion a chain of events that leads to a tenuous relationship between vampire and werewolf, one that neither wants but both need.
Baines masterfully develops the supernatural beings in this story, the Blood Shades and the Flesh Masters (werewolves), as apex predators, vicious and superior to humans who are regarded as food.
The vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings like Cloak Masters (invisible beings) are genetic by nature, coming from families where the various genes for each type of creature run in the family.
The author’s world-building is nothing short of extraordinary, as he reveals the rich history of these supernaturals in a subtle and impactful way.
What sets this novel apart is its representation of the LGBT community, specifically the gay community. The story’s setting, the gay clubs in Sydney, and the fact that the main character is gay add another layer of complexity and depth to the story.
The Beast Without is a thought-provoking and thrilling read that showcases the diversity of the human experience through the lens of the supernatural. It is a novel that will stay with the reader long after the last page is turned.
