Eight years, eight seasons, and 171 episodes of pure television magic -The Vampire Diariesended in 2017, and seven years later, it remains a cult classic. But supernatural magic isn’t the only thing that droveThe Vampire Diaries' success - its talented cast, themes, amazing stories, and the show’s ability to keep viewers on tenterhooks was perfect.
Destined for an Early Grave by Jeanine Frost (2009)
The Ballad of Never After by Stephanie Garber (2022)
Based on the book series of the same name by L. J. Smith,The Vampire Diariesattracted legions of fans, some who became devoted followers of the Salvatore brothers and their captivating story and others who were just eager to explore a realm where mystical creatures like vampires, werewolves, and witches coexist. But what do you do when you’ve consumed everythingThe Vampire Diariesand are looking for similar reads? From paranormal romance to dark fantasies, these are the best stories for fans ofThe Vampire Diaries.
Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris (2004)
Everyone thinks their lives would be better with superpowers, but Sookie Stackhouse begs to differ. Her life isn’t easy, but the one thing it is is exciting, and hers is a story everyone would love to read. Sookie is blessed with a gift that makes her incompatible with the likes of her kind, so she’s always looking for that connection with someone. LikeThe Vampire Diaries, this story is about the love that stems between a human and a vampire. If you loveThe Vampire Diaries,chances are you will devour this book and others in thisSookie Stackhouseseries. These books are also the inspiration behind the HBO original series,True Blood.
Twilight by Stephenie Meyer (2005)
It’s somewhat impossible to hear aboutThe Vampire Diarieswithout coming acrossTwilight. And there’s a good reason for that. Two teenagers, one needing an anchor and the other ready to hold one down - one might think it’s a healthy love, but it’s far from it. Edward Cullen and Bella’sstory will have you investing your time and energy into following their complex story. And with Kristen Stewart and Robert Patterson taking viewers hostage, there’s little wonder that theTwilightbook series makes this list.
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare (2007)
Clary Fray is a regular human until she finds herself in the world of the shadow hunters. But what Clary doesn’t know is that she’s not just an ordinary human. There’s a reason she’s getting the sight, and the shadow hunterswould like to know. Now, she has new problems, and they come in distorted and grotesque ways. But that isn’t her only worry. There’s Jace, the jerk she can’t seem to resist.City of Bonesreached #8 on the New York Times Bestsellers list, and publishers described it as a sprawling urban fantasy packed with almost every type of creature known to the genre.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead (2007)
It’s time to explore the world of vampires like never before via an in-depth exploration of hierarchies and types. St. Vladimir’s Academyisn’t your usual school; it’s made for vampire royalty. Lisa Dragomir is special, and everyone knows it, including her best friend, Rose. But the two must fight side by side while navigating their dangerous worlds. Many readers appreciate the writing style of this book, and the forbidden love trope adds a layer of complexity to the plot.
The Rise by Julie Plec (2015)
Immortality has its downside, especially when it makes it harder to keep promises. Klaus, Elijah, and Rebecca are siblings, and they’ve vowed to always be there for each other, but when they move to New Orleans and make new discoveries and friendships, many things seem to spiral out of control. Everyone has a battle to face in this mesmerizing universe where ancient prophesies, mythical creatures, and untouched wonders all come to life. This book is also the first installment inThe Originals series. And the siblings' story doesn’t end here.
Angels' Blood by Nalini Singh (2009)
Elena’s world is where Vampires,Archangels, and hunters collide in a web of intrigue and passion. For fans who crave a perfect blend of steamy romance and supernatural excitement,Angels' Bloodis a must-read that keeps the reader flipping the pages. Singh is a master of storytelling, and this book is blessed with rich character development and sizzling chemistry.
The Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa (2012)
Allie may have her struggles, but the last thing she expects to happen is to go through a transition from one thing to another. Now, she sees life differently and lives differently. Allie’s story is one of self-discovery, magic, and forbidden love. This is a dystopian world and a post-apocalyptic society, both of which are exciting. Julie Kagawa’sThe Immortal Ruleshas been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Young Adult Fantasy.
A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness (2011)
In the City of Oxford, England, a spellbound witchhas her world intertwined with a centuries-old vampire.Embark on a spellbinding journey for lovers of mystical creatures and romance. Deborah Harkness’sA Discovery of Witches follows Diana, scholar and witch, in her captivating tale. The story gives us everything from mystery to passionate romance and the supernatural. Karen Valby of Entertainment Weekly labeled it an “exhilarating debut, filled with extraordinary fun.”
The Vampire Diaries Series by L. J. Smith (1991)
TheVampire Diariesseries had more than a good run on TV, and it’s safe to say that a large part of that success resulted from the flawlessness of the written work. In 2010, the book was nominated for the Kids Choice Award for Favorite Book. For fans looking for ways to spend more time with their favorite characters and to relive their plot twists, this is the perfect book series.
Huntress by L. J. Smith (1997)
This epic fantasy love story comes from L. J. Smith, the writer ofThe Vampire Diaries. and the most similar feature of this book withThe Vampire Diariesis the love triangle trope. But these people are more than love interests for Jez Redfern. They represent different lives and different parts of her. This urban fantasy teleports the reader to a time of supernatural realms.
Nothing is usual in the world created by Jeanine Frost. Love is out to the test in this paranormal romance, resulting in a rollercoaster of emotions packed with intense action, sizzling romance, and heart-pounding adventure.Destined for an Early Graveis a tale of passion and danger. It is the fourth book in theNight Huntressseries but can be read alone, and if you can’t get enough of it, the rest of the books in the series are to die for.
Having magical abilities is one thing. Being put up against magic that plays with hearts and minds is another thing entirely. Evangeline and Jack of Hearts have to team up now that there are bigger problems for Evangeline.The Ballad of Never Afteris the book that opens doors to a fantasy world with mystical challenges. It’s a great addition for fans ofThe Vampire Diariesand young adult fantasy, in general.
Supernatural romance, thrilling mysteries, captivating journeys - these hand-picked books promise these experiences. If you love Mystic Falls, then this list is more than perfect for you. Be submerged and enjoy the same allure of your beloved Netflix series in one or many of the books mentioned above.
Our top recommendation from the options presented isVampire Academyby Richelle Mead. This novel doesn’t just give you the vampire trope, but it properly introduces us to a complex vampire world with hierarchies and various types. Richelle Mead’s writing style is widely praised, as is the inclusion of the forbidden love trope.
Our second recommendation isCity of Bonesby Cassandra Clare. Clary Fray’s journey is special because she goes from existing as a regular human to a pivotal figure in a magical world. LikeThe Vampire Diaries,The Shadowhuntersseries was adapted into movies.
FAQs
Who are the Salvatore brothers?
The Salvatore brothers are Damon and Stefan Salvatore. In the 19th century, they were both turned into vampires.
Where is Mystic Falls located?
Mystic Falls serves as the fictional backdrop for the events unfolding in The Vampire Diariesseries.
Who created the TV series The Vampire Diaries?
Kevin Williamson and Julie Plec developed it from the novel written by L. J. Smith.
