Shauna from my Facebook page started this “discussion”, and this was one list I was thrilled to make! So here it is. My top ten favorite vampire-centric series.
Already, I have a confession. I tried to number them in order of favorites, but really, that was too hard since I liked so many of them equally. So, I “tied” many at the same number, and even still, I second guess my placement of them. Oh and, yeah ok, I also cheated cause there are more than 10 😉
(this is also a discussion on my Facebook page, so comment here, or join me there, and maybe we can change this list even more!)
1.) J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood Series One of the first series I obsessed over, and each and EVERY brother made me swoon. This is one series that I can easily read again and again. Warrior vampires that protect the human race from an evil group of “turned-soulless” humans that are just plain gross. Each one has a personal struggle, and getting past their emotional barriers is hard work, but oh so worth it! Oh and as you already know, since I keep reminding you, “Z” (Zsadist) is my favorite vampire of all time (and the angriest of them all, too). My mom likes Rehv most (hee hee! I find that so funny). Why? Read his book and you’ll see 😉 But first, read all the others, and I promise. You won’t be disappointed. Then, tell me who your favorite is.
2.) Charlaine Harris’s Southern Vampire Mysteries (Sookie Stackhouse Series) This was the second series I read in the genre, and I hesitated because I didn’t think it was possible to ever love any vampire more then Edward. I was wrong. DEAD wrong. Eric weaned me off of Twilight. From sweet and innocent to bad-ass and hungry, my vampire tastes have changed significantly because of Eric.
3.) Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark-Hunters I *crushed* over and over again. While only a few of the heroes have a “vampire-y bite” in this series, they are all fighting a war against a certain kind of evil vampire. Greek gods and goddesses (and then some other gods on top of that), shifters, demons and humans and again, swoon-time! I lived in this world for a few weeks, and loved every moment of it.
4.) Lynsay Sands Argeneau Vampires Extremely romantic, and funny – loved almost every one of them. Vampires that are turned via advanced technology from the time of Atlantis (some nano-thingie that constantly heals them, but requires “extra” blood to work properly). These “vampires” are only allowed to turn one mate. Luckily, they don’t have to guess or hope they made the right choice, since they “know” who that mate is when they meet them. (again, cause of those smart “nano-thingies). But here’s the kicker. That someone may take decades, and even centuries to show up. Why I love this series? It’s beyond hilarious! Living in our world, blending with humans, and my favorite part? The whole “You love me too? Great! By the way, I’m a vampire” part – LOL!!
5.) Jeaniene Frost’s Night Huntress Series Cat (half human/half vampire and EXTREMELY rare) hates vampires. Kills them even. Until she meets Bones, and he teaches her a few things about what a vampire really is. Hrmmm..how to sum up this series? AWESOME. Secret government agencies, cover-ups, vampire wars (and you might as well add ghosts and zombies to the mix) and you get non-stop action, and heartbreaking moments and plenty of funny (although more like snarky-funny). Bones is just plain hot, and the jealous reactions from both main characters make for some seriously steamy scenes.
5.) Kerrelyn Sparks’s Love at Stake Series Pure candy! Easy reads that always have a moment or two of danger but mostly just funny and super romantic. Shifters, or vamps, they all work together to protect Roman Draganesti’s empire, a genius vampire who has come up with all sorts of ways to keep vamps happy without having to feed directly from humans (which makes them a little too primal 😉 Ha! They think that’s a bad thing! Anyway, more of my favorite moments (in the closet “vampires” that fall for unsuspecting humans – always ALWAYS fun!)
5.) Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy Very risqué! A world where a large society of “good” vampires exist, and half human/half vampires are trained to protect and guard them. Vampire Academy is where all those young’ns grow. Lots of action but even better, some very thought provoking romantic angst. Non-stop enemy attacks from “true/turned” vampires who want to take over, and one of the most intriguing aspects of the series – an illicit romance that both blooms and spirals onto risky terrain.
6.) Jill Myles’s Succubus Diaries Jackie, a normal human female, suddenly turned into a gorgeous succubus is struggling. How did she get this way? Why? And how does she handle her heart (and body) that seems to want it all. Does she want Noah – a gorgeous fallen angel with a heart of gold or his bad-boy counterpart, Zane, another fallen angel now turned vampire who made a deal with devil just to get his wings back. Well, that’s not all of it, but it sure is what kept me reading. Basically a story of good vs. evil, where “good” isn’t always “good”, and “bad” isn’t always evil.
7.) Lara Adrian’s Midnight Breed – this series helped me when I needed a Black Dagger Brotherhood fix. Another group of male vampire warriors protecting their species, and the human population from evil (and there is plenty of it). Awesome “brotherly” feel with the typical testosterone induced spats and worries, and their insistence on resisting romance. But you all know how that goes. A good male needs his mate, and in this series, the mates are gifted human females that are “specially marked” just for the Breed. Of course, the girls don’t know that, so imagine their surprise 😉 Good times hehe!
8.) Kathy Love’s Bourbon Street Trilogy (a little danger, but mostly just romance). It’s the whole “love at first site in a bar” thing, but that’s actually what hooked me. I think that “start” makes this series more real for the readers. More tangible. The what if? It’s about a trio of girlfriends on vacation in New Orleans. One evening, as they peruse the bars, the singer of the band playing that night, catches her eye, and he is bold enough to let her know he’s interested too. Against his better judgment (he’s got a few vampire-y secrets up his sleeve), he brings her home for a one night stand, but…well can they keep it to just one night? Good series if you’re just looking for that camaraderie feel, and some very steamy romance too. And it’s not just romance. As the series progresses, paranormal danger threatens in the background…
You know what’s also fun about this series? They’re REAL!!! Imagine my surprise when I “tweeted” with “Ren” (the main character of book#1). And not just “role-playing” real. This series was actually based on a real band in New Orleans that inspired the author. Of course…the whole “vampire” thing might be made up. Or maybe not… 😉 *giggle*
9.) Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight Saga No explanation needed cause I’m sure you’ve all heard about it. This series is what introduced me to vampires and werewolves and captured me fully for weeks. It really deserves to be at the top for me, because of all I have gained from this series. Great initiation to a genre that I know I will never stop reading.
10.) Laurell K Hamilton’s Anita Blake Vampire Hunter Series Anita Blake. Hard-ass tiny little thing, loved by many of the sexiest paranormals and yet, in constant danger from them, too. She’s tough though, and has powers that can control the dead. All the dead (which is why many of them want to rid themselves of her). Caught in an emotional roller coaster between Jean-Claude (vampire) and Richard (werewolf), the three of them must try to work it out. Sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t. But one thing’s for sure, I can’t help but wonder how badly they wish they could back to to the beginning of the series, when it was just the three of ’em. Like I do. Okay, maybe with the occasional “Asher” thrown in for fun 😉 I guess I might be able to deal with that. But the way it is now, it’s just wayyyyy too many love/sex interests for me to be able to connect to. it’s too much…it’s just too much.
So up to a certain point – I enjoyed the series. Even past Obsidian Butterfly (which happens to be a cut-off point for many). But, yes, I too have had to cut myself off. The last 4 or 5 books have not entertained me in the least. Jean-Claude was awesome, once upon a time… so I’ll just reminisce about those days.
Ok, who’s next? What’s next?
Check out my other “favorites” lists:
Ok we share the same list for the most part. I would add Lynn Viehl’s Darkyn Series. That one was good, even if I did sort of hate on Michael.
Don’t beat me to death but I still have not read the Lara Adrian’s or the Lindsay Sands. I know, I know.
Plus can I just say I love LOVE LOVE the way you summed the series. Especially the Sookie one. Eric introduced me to a whole breed of Vamps. YAY!
Hey Lily, I agree about Lynn Viehl and for the most part the list is similar to mine. BUT where is Christine Feehan’s Dark Series? Not all of them were great, but some were awesome. I also recently started D B Renolds’ Vampires in America which is really starting to get very good. I needed a breather before I start the last Voyager novel by Diana Galbaldon. Time traveling, shape shifters, demons, witches, angels can all be very entertaining, but vamps are my fav. You’re right about Eric – he’s definitely for the grown-ups.
Hi Conchita! I did love the first three in Christine Feehan’s Dark series. I couldn’t put her in my list yet, only because
1.) I haven’t finished the series – lots more to go
2.) After the first 3 books (which I absolutely loved) I needed to slow it down some. It got to be too much for me (all that intense love, and non-stop talking, and obsessing and possessiveness) – again, I like it, just in smaller doses. I think I’ve read the first 7 so far.
I prefer vamps too. Love ’em all of course, but it never fails. The vampire in the book (or show – Being Human anyone? hehe) is always ALWAYS my favorite.
Now I’m going to have to try Sparks, Myles and Mead !!
I just have to say, I absolutely love your list! I’ve been hunting for something new to read and this was just perfect. Thank you so very much, I have to run to the book store and find some of these lovies on your list now.
Hi Penny and Frore
I’m so pleased that this list helped!! Please let me know what you think of the books once you’ve read them 😉
You should try the House of Night Series by P.C. Cast and her daughter Kristin. Easy reads but no less addicting. Also P.C. has couple of other series’. I just started reading the Goddess Summoning ones and I love them so far. She takes already existing story lines but throws a fantasy/romance twist on them. I’ve only read the Christine/Dylan (kind of a reverse Little Mermaid) and the Persephone/Hades ones but I really enjoyed them.
Haha nevermind Don’t read the previous comment! My bad!
Anne Rice was writing about Louis and Lestat when i started enjoying the world of vampires….never looked back and always look forward to new and thrilling authors and series. Twilight is for sure my next favorite!!!
I don’t see P.C and Kristen Cast 🙁 I love the idea of being born a vampire and going to a school JUST for vampires. I admit one or two of them lost me but for the most part good fun. And as always start with the FIRST book or you will be So confused! 🙂
Well for me it was Anne Rice who kicked it all into me! I have read almost all of her books, since much of them went somewhat together. Loved them. I have to agree with a couple of posters, House of Night Series is a real good story. The author is new and you can certainly tell in the beginning books. Each book has like a repeat of what happened previously, but it was a little overboard. However, I couldn’t put it down. The story was just too good, and by the last book she finally had it down and I was much happier. I’m currently reading The Black Dagger Brotherhood series. Yummy stuff there!
Hi Vickie and Angie!
I used to have the House of Night series on this list… while I was reading the entire series (first 3 or 4 books really had me), but…my enthusiasm over the series plummeted halfway through it (when the authors pretty much ruined Erik). I continued to read, and enjoyed some of the side stories, but after book#4, I knew this was not a top ten for me.
It is quite a popular series however, and tons just love it. I was with you all, for a bit… 😉
Hi Maryse,
I LOVE your list. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you Cindy!!
I love your list, but what about the Rachel Morgan series by Kim Harrison???
Hi Cristini!
I haven’t read those yet, but thank you for the suggestion. Quite possible that the series will make it on here 😉
A book was recently recommended to me entitled “The Rest Falls Away” by: Colleen Gleason. Has anyone read this series and can tell me if it is as good as it sounds????
Hey Maryse 🙂
Thanks for your blog. It’s always a go-to for me when I’m looking for a new series. BDB is by far my favorite series and I loved the Midnight Breed and Demonica series (though I know it’s a demon series, but I just had to include it 🙂 But might I suggest Kathryn Smith’s Brotherhood of Blood series if you haven’t read them yet. They were extremely delicious and very entertaining. 🙂
Hi Tess! I’m always in for more “delicious”. And I haven’t read this one yet. Excellent suggestion!! 🙂
I am still looking for someone who has read “The Rest Falls Away” by Colleen Gleason, a book recently recommended to me. Has anyone read this series and can tell me if it is as good as it sounds????
I haven’t read it yet, but I’m definitely going to look it up.
I am almost through with the third book by Gail Carriger in her “Parasol Protectorate” series. I did not think I would like them but they were wonderful. I can hardly wait until June when the next one in this series is released.
What about Joey W Hill’s Vampire Queen series? BDB was my favourite until I found Joey…then all bets were off!! Absolutely brilliant, read all 6 in a week, books 7 & 8 due out this year.
Musette… really? Better then BDB? Ohhhh you’ve tempted me bad. Especially considering who’s on the cover of those books… 😉
Oh yes! Joey has totally spoiled me now! Her Vampire Queen series is the best…and I dont say that lightly!! Was totally in love with BDB (not that I’m not now, just a love that turns into friendship,lol!) Joey’s vamps are scorching hot! Even had me in tears, real ones too.
To give you another clue of what to expect, just in case…..
Think Vishous…times 10….hmmmm….maybe times 100, lol!
hi i just wanted to thank you for this list i found it a while ago and so far i have picked up several of the series you have suggested and have pretty much loved all of them. BDB is the best andthe Twiligh series is great too though the Vampire queen series now that is just plain yummy if you are of a more unusual bent. it is heavily lifestyle oriented and beyond good. i didn’t realize there were more then the two i already have. i see i am going to have to get the rest. thanks again.
All of these vampire/parnormal books have turned me onto the tv shows… Being Human.. LOVE IT.. The Walking Dead…. awesome.. (im a huge zombie fan too!) Vampire Diares.. ROCKS.. one of my favs!, and True Blood!! CANT GET ENUFF!!! Anyone who hasnt seen these shows.. give um a chance, cuz they are quite entertaining to say the least.. and alot of times, its very different from the books.. Anyone else watch these shows?!!
True Blood and Being Human!! Love both of ’em. Aiden… that’s all I got to say. Oh, and Eric 😉 *sigh*
Just checked out Aiden, that’s the US version yes? UK version is Mitchell, bit rougher looking I think…hmmm, now who to choose,lol! Def with you on Eric, although I prefer Book Eric to TV Eric!
Vamp Diaries…gotta be Damon…he’s just soooo naughty!! I see a theme here…
Cant think what rating Vampire Queen series would get if made for film/tv….don’t think there are enough X’s on a keyboard,lol!!!!
And just think…I started with Twilight…..haha!
Hey Maryse…..:)
thanks for this wonderful blog…..it takes a looooooot of effort to keep tabs on so many writers….isn’t it????HATS OFF TO YOU…… 😀 😀
Hello Shreya!
Thanks so much for the great feedback. Yes it does take some time to catch up with all the authors, that’s for sure. But I’m looking for the info anyway, so it’s fun to post what I find. These authors are writing machines!!!
::laughing;: isn’t that the truth about Vampire Queen Series::grins::
Ok that cinches it. I’ve got two series to finish (should be done by next week), and then the next one on my list is absolutely the Vampire Queen series. I can’t wait to start!!
Maryse…… 🙂 i’ve read all the series that you have listed in your blog(the favourite paranormal & vampire series) and all of them are really good….i mean there are some personal favourites among all these series but your suggestions are simply amazing……..bt the sad part is i’ve finished reading almost all of them and need some more of your unique suggestions dear…..i’m sure you have found some great new series in this genre…… PLS HELP 😀 😀
For those who have already read VAMPIRE QUEEN series………
Is this series historical or contemporary????A series being compared to BDB is something huge for me!!!!! 😀 :D….spiked my curiosity…..:D
I also love BDB, yep, all of them!! The VQ series is much more sexually explicit and of a BDSM twist, so have a caution if it’s not your thing, didnt think it was mine, but hey, who knew,lol! As in previous posts, think Vishous X 100!!! The first book is The Vampire Queen’s Servant, then The Mark of the Vampire Queen (2-parter)
I’m sure I got the reading order from Maryse’s blog, so it must be on here somewhere….thanks Maryse…great info!
yes the Vampire queen is very heavily BDSM oriented which is what i meant by lifestyle ::laughing;: wasn’t sure if i should put it down as BDSM so i just went with what we normally call it. it is definitely not historical it is more contemporary with some major differences. highly sexual too. i found it on amazon when i was searching for lifestyle oriented books. there are several series on amazon that people have listed.if you have a problem with major dominance oriented series Vampire Queen is not for you but it is always fun to be a little wicked and stretch your comfort zone. i have been looking up and seeing some of the other series that lora leigh has done and am going to get them next month to see if i like them it sounds like the series i am thinking about is like the Vampire queen series. there is also several new books coming out that i am chomping at t he bit. the new Argeneau book is coming out this month and JR wards fallen angel series has one coming out as well soon. i don’t remember what month though i just saw it in passing.
Heather..JR Ward’s latest Fallen Angels is out in September I think. Quite like that series….although Joey has spoilt me for anyone else,lol!!! Yep, even the great JR!!
I finished the last Parasole Pretectorate series book (3 in the series) with another one due out soon. It gives another dimension to the vampire and werewolf characters with the main character being soulless which means she can, with her touch, make a vampire and werewolf mortal while she is touching them. It is set in old England where travel was by dirigible.
Also, again, has anyone read the “The Rest Falls Away” by Colleen Gleason???
I am now reading on my Kindle the newest released book by Jeanine Frost in the Cat and Bones series.
love your websit I`m reading a series by Michele Hauf called” Bewitching the dark” witch`s & vamps Very yummy.
Hi Lisa!! Thanks so much for the feedback 😉 Yummy vamps rock, so thanks for that recommendation!!
love you top 10 you should add Bewitching the dark series by Michele Hauf
Also should add Parasol Protectorate series to your list which was absolutely deliciously wonderful and amusing. Vampires, werewolfs, ghosts and of course the soulless. It is by Gail Carriger. There are three books in the series and the fourth due out soon.
I love your list and applaud you for your upkeep of this blog. Still waiting to hear from anyone who has read Colleen Gleason’s “The Rest Falls Away”???
Hi Sandy! I’ve heard a few times how great the Parasol series is. I haven’t read The Rest Falls Away yet, so I can’t give an opinion…but I’ll look it up 😉
While there is a plot here, there is a bit of erotica in this series:
Tina Folsom
Scanguards Vampires Series = 4 books
I have book 1. Definitely interesting in getting to it…
Love your website and just turned my sisters on to it. Lots of reading here!! I almost totally agree with your top tens. I’d like you to include in your ratings which book series has plot and intrigue along with romance. I sometimes find the romancy parts too gooey (Feehan with 6 pages on one sexual encounter) and I really NEED a good plot. BDB excellent plots, Midnight series excellent plots, etc. I think Feehan adds so much depth to her characters, I suffer the 6-page sex scenes and I really like reading her regardless. I’d just like to know when you recommend a series whether its the romance factor influencing you.
Hi Patty!
It’s everything, but mostly, how it made me feel.
If I felt bored, or if I could put the book down many times without “missing” it, then it won’t get a high recommendation from me. And it happens… (sometimes I hit a few in a row like that – bummer).
But if I’ve smiled or laughed a ton (for a comedy/romance series), or felt my heart *tug* many times (for romance), or cried, felt the angst, or have been on the edge of my seat and either can’t put the book down, or think about it (and the characters all day while I’m at work) – then THAT influences what I recommend.
Yup – that is actually what helps make my decision on whether I liked a series or not. How long it stays with me after I’ve put the book down…
hey everyone. just finished reading the new argeneau book that offically came out. definitely fits into the series in a way one of the best ones because you get a little better aquainted with the two mains. definitely worth reading.
Thank you Heather for the heads-up. I’m really anxious to get to it!!
I’d like to mention L.A. Bank’s Vampire Huntress Legend Series.
After getting into the first book, wow – I had to read them all.
Jude: I have a few books from that series, and it does look good! I like series where we follow one main set of characters, throughout the main stories.
Lisa: I have read a few from Michele Hauf, right now I’m currently reading one of her fallen angel books.
Jess: I have Thirst #1, but I haven’t read it yet. My husband bought it for me cause he liked the cover. LOL!
Hi Maryse, I did`t see Michele Hauf on your list I`m reading Bewitching the dark series very very good.. witch`s & vamps
Thank you for some new ideas. Have you read Thirst? I loved Sita.
What does BDB stand for??? Is it an abbreviation for a book??
I just finished the latest Jeanine Frost NIght Huntress. It was a wonderful as the others and I could not put it down. I am now reading the newest Sookie Stackhouse book and am truly enjoying it. Having a very very difficult time putting it down. Eric is as yummy as usual.
Sandy…BDB stands for Black Dagger Brotherhood by J R Ward…it’s a great series, the last one was just released in April, I think. The first book is Dark Lover…highly recommended! Glad there’s a ‘thumbs up’ for the latest Sookie, I really wasn’t impressed with the one before.
hey everyone…jst finished reading a new series called “Vampires In America”-by DB Reynolds…….its a great series based on 8 Vampire lords who control North America….(4 books are out till date)…strong characters,great chemistry between the leads, full of passion, thrill & action……..all in all a yummy package!!!! 😀
give it a shot….!!!! 😀
Hi Shreya! I’ve heard of it!! I think I set up it’s reading order guide in my lists. Good huh? Hrmmm… ok, I’ll definitely add it to my pile 🙂
Maryse…..you won’t regret it…..!! 😀
Just finished readind the “Scanguards vampire” series by Tina Folsom……currently has 4 books….gets better with every book….. 😀
Hi Shreya! I just finished book #2 (which I intend to review this week). Liked it alot, but so far, book #1 is my fav. Still though… two to go 😉
I love your choices and would like to add another series to it. Richelle Mead’s “Georgina Kincaid” series is totally awesome as well.
Hi Jennifer! My friend Sherry insists I get to that series soon. She loved it too, and since I’m a Richelle Mead fan, I know this will be right up my alley!
Hi I just randomly clicked on you website looking for the reading order of the Argeneau Vampires. I thought I would check out your top ten and to my delight I agree with 7/10 of the series mentioned only because I have not read 3 of them 🙂 I was completely hooked on the Dark Hunter novels until I started the BDB ones. Can’t decide who I like the best. I think however in the BDB series I enjoyed John Matthews’ story the best! With Dark Hunter’s its still Acheron although I am looking forward to see who she writes about next. I read the Twilight series first as I was urged to by my 11 yr old step-daughter. From then I have not looked back. I think though my 2 favourite vampire characters of all time are Bones from Jeaniene Frost’s series and Eric from Charlaine Harris.
Hi Jaz! I love all the series you’ve mentionned! For the Dark Hunter series, I think my favs were Talon, Acheron, and Vane’s books.
Besides a few you have listed I have to recommend a series that I will STRONGLY recommend! Its the Queen Besty series by Mary Janice Davidson. A very socialite girl gets turned into a vampire because of some really bad luck events, but this 10 book series is FULL of extremely funny one liners and probably one of the best series I have ever read! Here is the explanation of the first book from her website “Betsy Taylor turns 30, gets laid off, is killed by an SUV and wakes up dead all in the same week. The vampire community is convinced she’s their prophesied Queen. But she’s not having any of it—she’s got shoes to buy! And now the undead world is being turned upside-down by a Bela Lugosi throwback and her subjects expect her to take care of it! Why didn’t she read the handbook? But her would-be consort, Eric Sinclair, is (annoyingly) ever-present. If only he wasn’t so tall, dark, gorgeous…and undead.”
Hi Erin! Oh yes, I LOVED the Queen Betsy series. I’m actually behind in it now (a few books for me to catch up to), but a couple of years ago, I spent a week plowing through many of the books, and Sinclair is wonderful.
Loved Mary Janice Davidson verry funny!!! I know they aren’t vampires but gena showalter books are also very good!!! thanks for info on new authors always looking!! Haven’t started DBD yet but I am! so many books so many authors so little time!!!!
*cheering in the background*
BDB!
BDB!
BDB!
Can you tell what I want you to read next? 😉
the house of night novels by pc and kristen cast rock.. and the blue blood novels by melissa de la cruz are awesome, too.
I didn’t see any Susan Sizemore. She has a whole Primes series that’s still ongoing. The first one is I Burn for You and goes on from there. Very sexy vampires. I hear it’s like the BDB series, though I’ve not read them yet. I do have to say though, that this series is NOT inteded for children/teens/young adults. It’s more Adult-oriented literature, so 18+ years would be good.
Just finished the Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost and loved it. Many of your favorites are mine too. After your great review on the BDB series; I decided that I read that next. On book one now and I will let you know what I think. I agree about the Anita Blake series. I love it, but it is getting to be a bit toooo much. I still read them b/c I want to know what happens and how the series will go. I love Jean-Claude and want to know how they work all this out. Vampire Academy…. LOVED IT! I also liked Christine Feehan’s Dark Series, but one of my favorites is Rachael Morgans “Hollows Series”; my vote is on Trent! I owe Twilight all of these good reads; Stephanie Meyers got me started on PNR. Thank you Meyers! I see in my future “Dark Hunters Series” and “Sookie Stackhouse Series“. Can’t wait.
I’d like to recomend:
Karen Chance – Cassandra Palmer series
Chloe Neill – Chicagoland Vampires seriesIlona Andrews – Kate Daniels (not really a vampire series, though. It’s a world where magic comes and goes. When magic comes, technology doesn’t work and vice versa.)
J. R. Rain – Vampire for Hire ( It is a really different series, but I have enjoyed all the books 🙂 A woman who lives at home with her kids and tries to live a normal live, even if she is a vampire. Each book ends either in the middle of things or with a cliffhenger. Just so you are warned, if you decide you want to try them. ;))
Gini Koch – Alien series ( Aliens who protect humans aganinst other aliens)
In all the different seies I have mentioned, you follow one set of characters. Hope you find something that you like 😉
Has you ever read Linda Lyle Miller”s Vampire Series
Tonight and Always 1996
Time Without End 1995
For All Eternity 1994
Forever and the Night 1993
I know I am showing my age but these were the first Vamp book I ever read and I loved them. Just wondered what you thought.
Thank you Shelly!! I haven’t heard of it, but I’m going to look it up and put it on my website as we speak 🙂
Love your page…Thanks to you I read the Night Huntress Series and LOVEDDDD IT…More then Sookie Stackhouse Series….I listened to it 6 times on my IPod…..Also the Vampire Academy…Loved that as well….I also read the Anita Blake Series recommended by a friend and loved the first few books then it just kept getting sillier and sillier but I did listen to everyone of them 🙂
Hi, I think that after reading all the vampires, etc books take a bit of time to read christine feehan Dark Series and her Leopard Series they are very good.
My Favorite series was the Midnight Breed books, to me the “bad guys” are so much better in these books so it carries the story better. I am very excited to she Chase story and how they get him out of that mess. BDB is also an awesome story line ( I hate the lessers) The bad guys could have been better written. And I agree “Z” is the hottest of them all. I also like John story line and how it all is unfolding. Though at some point I would like to see that they figure out who he really is,
Vampires rock indeed! 🙂
Also worth mentioning, the House of Night Series!
You have got to read Kim Harrison’s Rachel Morgan Series if you haven’t. The first is called Dead Witch Walking and they are all fantastic! Vamps, Witches, Demons, pixies… it rocks!
These are great series, a few I have not read of and will definitely check out…I would also like to recommend Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland Series…obsessive!!! Although Larissa Ione isn’t only vampire…the Demonica Series is GREAT!
Hi Maryse – Have you checked out the series from Nalini Singh – Both the Psy-Changling series and the newer Arch Angel series are a must read. FYI you’re right about The Anita Blake series, just read the latest (from the library no less) yet again a disappointment. *sigh*.
I couldn’t agree with you more, i love the black dagger brotherhood series…i can’t put them down. the sookie stackhouse series has been also one of my favourites. I’m glad i found your site, there are some authors and series i hadn’t heard of so i will definately been reading those based on your top ten. Paranormal romance novels are my favourite kinda reads
I’m new here and haven’t browsed the entire blog by any means, so not sure if I missed a disclaimer somewhere, but how in the world can you list top 10 vamp series and completely leave out Anne Rice?! hehehe
Kim Harrison’s novels are amazing as well, mentioned by a previous comment. It reminds me somewhat of LKH’s Anita Blake series, but not as much crazy sex. Plus, gotta love an author that takes old Clint Eastwood movie titles and switches them up to title each book!
I will def try some of these, ones I have found I think may have all been mentioned except Amanda Hocking. She’s got sev diff series but really like her writing, Thirst series is good, House of Night, Morganville Vampire Series, Sarra Cannon and Ellen Schreiber are good quick reads entertaining and De La Cruz, last but not least the Alyson Noel books. I’m an avid reader as well and am always looking to share authors and also find new recc. Thanks for the new books!
Alison,
My friend LOVED Amanda Hocking’s “My Blood Approves” series… said she couldn’t put it down. I’ve got to give it a go!
Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland vampire series is pretty awesome! Merit is becoming one bad ass vampire chick. You can expect relationships being tested, new bonds, and heart break over love lost all while her new life as a vampire takes her on adventures and investigations. I can NOT wait until November when the new book in the series is released!
Hey Maryse, I’d like to say that all these novels seem absolutely amazing. Now, I’ve already read the Twilight Saga and Vampire Academy Series (I’m the ultimate Adrian Ivashkov fangirl) and I’m in the midst of reading the Night Huntress Series. Afterwards, I want some good reading material to fall back on because I’m running out of options fast. And I’d love to know which order you recommend to read one of these. Greatly appreciated.
Gena Showalter’s Lords of the underworld series is great.. Kinda like Kresley Cole’s Immortals after dark series…
im so shocked that thirst wasnt on this list! sita is life , but the 3rd one is pathetic and like its written as a remake of the 1st book ><
I HAVE READ ALL THE HOUSE OF THE NIGHT BOOKS EVEN THE FOLLOW UP BOOKS ABOUT DRAGON AND NYX WAITING FOR NEFRETS . ALSO READ PARTHOLON 2 BOOKS. NOW READING THE DIVINE BOOKS FOLLOWED BY THE GODDESS BOOKS. I LOVE P.C. CAST’S BOOKS. THEY ROCK,AND I AM 31 YEARS OLD.HER BOOKS ARE AGE LESS.
OMG Yay Finally someone with the same book Genre interests as i, My friend suggested i read the Vampire Academy series and since the first book i was totally obsessively hooked! I’ve just finished Twilight series and Vampire Academy 🙂 Another great one i love is the ‘ evernight series/ By Claudia Gray. I love it:) Romance and action all based around a guy called Lucas and A Girl called Bianca, it’s beautiful 🙂
Oh And i actually cried when i finished Vampire Academy i loved it so much xD
Thankyou for putting your top 10 🙂 I’m going to read them all! 🙂
try the succubus series by Richelle Mead you’ll love it if you are a die hard vamp. fan.
Check out noble dead saga by barb and jc Henderson. She also does a solo series about vampires that is a truly different take on them…I am blanking on the name bc I discovered Anita Blake and have been immersed in them for about a year so I need to catch up after hit list. Love your website!
THE SUCCUBUS SERIES IS HOT AND SO IS THE GODDESS SERIES.(SEXY AS ALL HELL)
just a suggenstion!
Blue Bloods by Mellisa de la Cruz are absolutely wonnnndeerrfull!
blue bloods is great
sherrilyn kenyon is also really hot to read
Rachel Cains Morganville Vampires Is an Addicting book series as well. ! definitely worth looking into 🙂
I’m going to read The Morganville Vampires after I finish reading The Dark series…On book 19.
Mary. I’d love to hear how you like Morganville. I hear it’s great!
j.r.ward’s BLACK DAGGER BROTHER HOOD SERIES, WAS GREAT.READ ALL OF THEM PLUS THE FALLEN ANGELS SERIES WAS ALSO GREAT. ANY ONE GOT MORE IDEAS?
Carrie – did you read everything off this list yet?
almost done with the whole list! got any more?
MARYSE,IN THE LAST SIX MONTHS I HAVE READ OVER 200BOOKS GOT ALL MY RECOMENDATIONS FROM YOUR SITE.THANKS,GOT ANY MORE? MY LIBRARY IS SICK OF ME BUT OH WELL,HELP ME MAKE THEM EARN THERE PAY CHECK.LOL.
LOL Carrie! Have you read Richelle Mead’s Georgina Kincaid series yet? So far, everyone that I know LOVES that series, and I need to get to it.
almost i have read over 200 books
Thank you for the list. I am a huge reader as well. I LOVED the Morganville Vampire series. That is actually one of my favorites. This is a great blog.
I JUST STARTED READING-KERRELYN SPARKS BOOKS AND I LOVE THEM! I READ EVERY BOOK THAT IS RECEMENDED FROM THIS SITE,AND HAVE NOT FOUND ONE I DON’T LIKE AND I HAVE READ OVER250 BOOKS SO FAR IN THE LAST 61/2 MONTHS SO THANK YOU FOR THIS SITE,I LOVE IT.
I loved the Morganville vampire series as well, I can’t wait for the next book! Currently reading Clockwork Prince, love that series, too. So many books to read, just not enough time in a day.
I LOVE THIS SITE,IT IS GREAT UP TO 350BOOKS NOW,AND LOTS MORE TO GO.THANKS FOR A GREAT SITE.
Hey Maryse, I really think you would enjoy ‘the house of night’ series by p.c. cast. House of Night is a thrillingly engaging book series that follows 16-year-old Zoey Redbird, who gets “Marked” by a vampyre tracker and begins to undergo the “Change” into an actual vampyre. She has to leave her family in Tulsa and move into the House of Night, a boarding school for other fledglings like her. But she’s still a teenager – with all the humor, angst and confusing feelings any other teenager has, not to mention she is constantly included in love triangles.
There are 10 books so far, the first is called Marked, the latest one is called Destined, and there are more to come!
I just recently read A Discovery of Withes by Deborah Harkness. After reading this novel in three days (I couldn’t put it down) I went to research the author. It turns out this was her first book and she plans on releasing a Trilogy – The All Souls Trilogy and the next book (Shadow of Night) is due to be released July 10, 2010. I can’t wait!!! Also, I loved loved loved the Morrigan Cross triology by Nora Roberts.
i love the morganville books i never used to read till my mum got me 1 n i have stoped since the love at stake is brill as well after im done wid them ill try sum on ur list
I absolutely love the house of night series. M sister turned me to them after i finished the twilight series. All should read!
Amanda. I read The House of Night series. Loved it until about book 5. Then I had a hard time staying connected to the characters. I didn’t like how the author handled Eric’s characters. Bummed me out. LOL!
If you liked Eric that much, you should read Anne Rice’s Vampire Chronicles, especially the first four or five books. You will fall on love with Lestat!
Dora. I have a feeling when I finally start that series I’ll be annoyed at myself that I didn’t start it sooner…
The morganville vamps are one of my fave series, u def have to read them! Plus there’s a series by an amazing author(R.I.P) L.A Banks “vampire huntress series” which is also great…:)
Amy, thank you for that. Morganville Vamps is recommended often, and I have collected a few from L.A. Banks.
Not sure if this has been mentioned, but I see a huge hole in your list. Anne Rice is the ultimate pen when it comes to vampires. Curious as to why?
Hi Lucy! I just haven’t read her yet, but eventually intend to. I hear great great things (of course, considering who she is in the genre). I do have her listed in the reading order guides. 🙂
mortal instruments are my top books you need to check them out
they have everything from vamps to angels
ps guys read to lol
LOL! Glad to have you with us James!!
Oh Maryse, you have to taste her lol….the first book I picked up from her was Pandora. I took the next 3 years or so, reading her exclusively. Amazing talent. Her witch series is also the bomb.. And this week she comes out with her first attempt at werewolves!!
Currently reading Jocelynn Drake, so far pretty good. I see a lot of other others in her writings.
You are going to love Lestat 🙂
I HAVE BEEN SPENDING THE LAST MONTH READING ALL OF, GENA SHOWALTER’S BOOKS AND I LOVE THEM! BEFORE THAT I READ EVERYTHING FROM-P.C. CAST AND J.R. WARD -THEY ROCK TO!
MARYSE, I READ THOSE LIKE A MONTH AGO. THEY WERE GOOD! I AM ALMOST O 400 BOOKS READ.(390) SO I AM FOREVER LOOKING FOR MORE BOOKS. L.O.L. CARRIE
Hi Maryse…found ur blog and cannot say how excited I am….love this genre…I am always looking for a new series to read…so glad for all the suggestions everyone has made…The Sookie bks were great until about bk 6 or 7…The Anita Blake series was great until about bk 10, then got a little too sex crazy for me…I only read a few Betsy bks but enjoyed them…LOVED Twilight…Only read 2 of House of Night…they were OK…never read DBD, but heard so many good things about that series….same with Vamp Academy…has anyone read the Dead End Dating series, by Kimberly Raye…loved this series…a little cheesy…but a fast read…so many suggestions on this site…can’t decide where to start…
Okay Michele – this is EASY for me. Start the Black Dagger Brotherhood!!
DO IT! You’ll love ’em. Then get back to me and let me know who your favorite brother is. You can’t say Z. He’s already spoken for.
😉
haha!!
MARYSE,I HAVE COME ACROSS SO OTHER GREAT FINDS-BRENDA JOYCE IS A GREAT. I HAVE BEEN READING ALL HER BOOKS AND I LOVE THEM. SO IS NINA BRUHNS TALK ABOUT HOT! HER BOOKS ARE THE TYPE U READ THEN TAKE A COLD SHOWER AFTER WORDS. CARRIE
MICHELE,BLACK DAGGER BROTHERHOOD IS A GREAT READ.-I’VE READ OVER 800BOOKS SINCE FINDING THIS SITE,AND HAVE NOT ONCE FOUND ANYTHING I HAVE NOT LIKED,THAT SOME ONE FROM HEAR HAS TOLD ME TO READ. IF U LOVE TO READ THIS SITE IS FOR U. THANKS FOR A GREAT SITE MARYSE. AND HAPPY READING MICHELE. CARRIE
Maryse-
Love your site! I, too, am a huge fan of the paranormal romance genre and have read as many as I can get my hands on. While I read more “horror” (Stephen King and Dean Koontz) as a young adult, I was always drawn to vampires and werewolves. Twilight reminded me how much I love them! (I was the one in Wal-mart at 2 am in my p.j.’s buying New Moon, because I’d just finished Twilight and had to find out what happened next!) In addition to the series listed above, I also highly recommend p.c. cast’s Parthenon series. It’s funny, romantic, and has the perfect amount of paranormal “stuff”! No vampires or werewolves, but plenty of magic, goddesses, and even a sexy centaur! Black Dagger Brotherhood, Morganville Vampires, Sookie, Dark Hunters, Immortals After Dark, Gena Showalter’s Lords of the Underworld, Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity, and Kim Harrison’s The Hollows are also some of my fave series. Just had to share! Happy reading!
OMG! I can’t believe I forgot the Argeneau series and Midnight Breed! Of course, then there’s Georgiana Sinclair or Real Vampires series, and LJ Smith’s Vampire Diaries, and…..
You have some of my favorites on here…I live.for sookie stachouse series and wait impatiently for each new release. The twilight series sparked my love for the genre, and then i flew through vampire academy (and house of night series), but after The vampire love in sookie I wanted more adult vampire novels! I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked night huntress novels. Then of course you have the love at stake books, these are my guilty pleasure, predictable but they still keep me hanging on every new great love story! The two that you don’t have that I love is Real Vampires…(have curves to don’t wear size six) and I also love the funny calamities of the Nice girls don’t…(have fangs to bite their neighbors) I love the hot and heavy but when they can work some humor in with the sex and danger then they really have me. It’s nice to find someone as hooked as I am! Keep reading and blogging!
The Dark Series by Christine Feehan is another good one to read.
I’m on audio book 13 of the Argeneau Vampire Series and love it…Just got done with The Morganville Vampires and loved that too…Reminded me of The Vampire Academy Series…
I just recently started reading “Alyson Noel’s Immortals series” and im hooked. Im on book 3 “The shadowlands” and i cant seem to put it down. Great suggestions and ideas! When im done with this series I will move onto the others for sure! Happy reading everyone!!!
Happy reading Samantha!! Glad you’re enjoying it!
Hi Maryse,
I’m not really into reading paranormal romance novels. A local owner of a bookshop that I frequent recommended me to read Chloe Neill – Chicagoland Vampires series and now I am hooked. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE her books. Now I’m a addict =)
Must be a great series to have you that excited. I keep hearing awesome things about the series, so I’m anxious to get to it.
Hi Maryse, I was just wondering if you had read Melanie Nowak’s Almost human
Series yet? She is very new and she is doing her own publishing through Amazon.com . I think you and your readers will love here series.
Maryse, I just have to say that you saved me from going crazy in the midst of my 6 month term of unemployment. I read all of the Sookie books, all of the Black Dagger books, and all of the Dark Hunter series because you recommended them!! Thank you so much!
Hey just found this site… can you put up the orders of the J.R wards books please?
I read Vampire Academy and The morganville Vampire series before I found this website. BEAT BOOKS I EVER READ!!! OMG! I was reading them 1 book a day, honestly I couldn’t out them down they were so so so good.
Please put up more vampire books I have no idea where to find them. x
Thanks
Hello!
The orders are up (in my Reading Order Lists): https://www.maryse.net/reading-order-lists
and here are JR Wards:
https://www.maryse.net/books/jr-ward-the-black-dagger-brotherhood-series-reading-order.html
https://www.maryse.net/reading-order-guide/j-r-ward-fallen-angels-series-reading-order.html
I hope that helps!
Thank you, Are there any series that are really similar to Morganville and VA? I really want more like them
Hi,I have every book in the love at stake series and also every book of the argeneau series. I love every character of the books. You have good taste.
Hi Maryse!
I love this site by the way and want to thank you for creating it. I think one of the series you would absolutely love is the Undead series by Mary Janice Davidson. In this series, Betsy Taylor wakes up dead after being mowed down by a car. She doesn’t fully realize she’s a vampire at first, but soon finds out and the fun only begins there. She is the prophesied “Vampire Queen” and must juggle her new “role” as queen along with lots of steamy encounters with Eric, the soon to be vampire king and her love of fashion. Very steamy and hilarious!
i agree with someone else’s recommendation about Christine Feehan’s Carpathians – Dark series. the books were real good. but after the first few, it got too repetitive. She has like around 20 but i would only really recommend the first 4. well 1, 2 & 4 (3 could be skipped imho). Dominant POSSESSIVE arrogant vampire-ish (i say ish because they are what vampires were before they turned evil) males who are brought to their knees by a women. book 4 was my abso fav. While i wouldn’t recommend the entire series, you gotta at least read Dark Prince (book 1). If its worth anything, i found out about her and gave her a try because JR Ward considered Christine Feehan as her “inspiration” into paranormal romance. As I love Ward, I wanted to know where she got her passion from.
I’ve just found this website – I though I was the only one who read “Fairystories” (As my mother scoffs).
Thanks for the ideas of other authors to read,
Nobody has mentioned Carrie Vaughn’s Kitty books – love those.
Keri Arthur is good too – particularly the Riley Jensen series (& Aussie too).
ive been checking your website for a year now..its awesome to know theres a lotta love out there for vamp romance books =)
maryse,i love to read vamp romance books for young adults(twilight,house of the night,vampire academy)what books are similar to those that i can read after vampire academy/spinoffs?(im still not over dimitri)
thanks
I recommend reading The Carpathian Novels by Christine Feehan, awesome books!
Dearest Scribe Virgin, it was fate that I stumbled upon your blog tonight! I am half way through “Lover Reborn” and feel like I could crack. I have spent the last 2 months reading ALL the BDB books back to back. I have been unable to put them down! The fact that you have rated them #1 on your list of top vampire books, is just awesome! Sookie is also one of my most coveted series and I am a Twihard to the end. Twilight is also what started my insane book passion, especially of ther supernatrual/vampy/sci-fi genre. I have been a guest book reviewer on my friends blog for a few weeks now. I started with book #1 of BDB and plan to review all of them. Verily, mayhap, if you have time, you could can check them out. (shawnkaraandheidi.blogspot.com/ What We Are Reading). Oh… and my heart skipped a beat when you said Z was your favorite (check out my review I just posted on him). In answer to your question…. Rhage is my favorite 🙂 with Z – an immediate close 2nd. Though I also have quite the soft spot for V, John Matthew and Tohr…. sigh. I look forward to reading more of your reviews!
Hey Maryse.
Just read 3 books by TJ Michaels. Carinian’s Seeker, Serati’s Flame and Haptsept Heat. in that order .
I would definitely recommend these books which has the flavor of the BDB, but want a little more diversity, and like smoking hot love scenes then try this book.
Susan
I enjoy reading Amanda Ashley`s Vampire books, Hope to get them all.
I wish she would send me a copy signed.
I was going through updating my book lists and stumbled across your website. Glad I did!! Your Top Ten Favorite Vampire Series and all but three were on my book lists…glad to find Kathy Love, Jeaniene Frost and Jill Myles books as I am going on a cruise (yes, I will make time for reading) and need to stock up on my Nook. Look forward to visiting your wonderful website and lovely to know that someone likes the same books as I do, varied as they are! All the best =) Suzy in Sturgeon Bay, Door County, Wisconsin…moo and yes I am a cheesehead!
I just want to let everyone know that I have read a few of these series! The Vampire Academy was my favorite! Sookie Stackhouse is of course great since they made a TV show out of it. Twlight was a very easy read and you don’t want to put it down, but it is geared for the younger adults. I have ready half of the Midnight Breed and love it. It has a great story that keeps you involved in the book, and is not made for young adults. 😉 Lords of the Underworld is another series that I am into right now that I would also recommend for someone who is looking for a longer series like Midnight Breed.
Hi again Maryse! I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Thirst Series by Christopher Pike, I saw someone mention it and you said your hubby bought it for you because of the cover lol. I have not read all of them (as I’m just finding out he rereleased them under this name AND continued the story! YAY!) But Sita was my first experience in the world of female powerhouse Vamps as I read these books in like 5/6th grade LOL, then they were called The Last Vampire Series…… and please don’t let that put you off, yes they are YA novels but Christopher Pike’s writing and his deep concepts of the world have always made his books a favorite of mine. I have read and reread most of them throughout my teens and adult life. I just bought all of them for my Kindle and can not wait to read how he continues the story (hopefully I’am not dissapointed) as these were my all time faves ever! Right now I’m nearing the end of Patricia Brigg’s Mercy Series and I LOVE THEM! My new favorite Werewolf series…… you should start a top ten list for them too lol
I was sucked into the BDB series and read them all within a week. Have read tons since then, but my favorite series is the Pyte/Sentinel series by R.L. Mathewson
First, I have to thank you so much. I was into the 10th book of the Laurell K. Hamilton and was getting no where fast. I googled vampire series and your site came up. I started in on the Black-Dagger Brotherhood series about 2 weeks ago and simply cannot stop. Just finished Book 4 and already salivating for Book 5. Thanks again!
Oh you can never go wrong with the BDB Nicole!! LOVE them. Can’t wait to hear who your favorite brother will be after all is said and done. 😉
Hey there;
Wonderfuuuuuuuuul list, I’ve got most of them, and they r in ur blood once u start reading;
but I have a question, how come Guardians of Eternity by Alexandra Ivy isn’t in that list? The most lethal, gorgeous vampires ever r in that series, not just vampires, werewolves, and sylvermysts 2, it takes u to a world full of strong demons, it’s great.
Love your site! I started reading the Black Dagger Brotherhood about 3 weeks ago. I’m now on Lover Unleashed. Love this series. V is my favorite! Love the relationship between Vishous and Butch!
the link to the facebook page in this post isn’t working for me…it’s not up anymore?
Okay, I have now finished all of the Black Dagger Brotherhood books. It was an extremely difficult decision, but I have to go with John Matthew as my favorite Brother. I love he and Xhex together.
After reading you recommendation about The Black Dagger Brotherhood, i went and read them, and now i keep reading them over and over. so thnak you, thank you for the tip.
and now i’m thinking of checking Midnight Breed, your post about it made me laugh, and so intersted 🙂
I absolutely adore the Dark Ones Series by Kate MacAlister. Drama, action, romance, sex…and i giggle snort throughout every book – so hilarious! I could not get through Christine Feehan’s first book in the moravian series….it was just too serious and intense. But you can never go wrong with BDB, the Argeneau’s, love at stake series or Sookie <3
I’m in the process of reading the BDB for the second time; V is still my favorite brother but I think Tohr’s book is my favorite. Love this series.
I love love love the Dark Protector’s series by Rebecca Zanetti! It’s a must if you love the alpha male! The newest in the series just came out last week and I finished it in one day!
HI Maryse, thank you so much for your site, it’s just awesome! Before 6 months ago I’d never read paranormal/vampire books, although I read a few books a week. Then I made it my years mission to read all the talked about books, starting with 50 shades 😉 then moved onto twilight. Well I’ve failed in my mission because after twilight I couldn’t get enough vampire, and I’ve got nearly all my inspiration from your site! Think I’ve read about 50 books in the last 3 months! So thank you thank you!! I just have to mention Elizabeth Hunter though, you’ve mentioned her once or twice but not read I think, she is AMAZING and I mean AMAZING. I’ve read her elemental mysteries series 4 times over already, and they have taken their place as my favourite books ever and thats taken some doing, Pride and Prejudice has had the top slot for a good 20 years now! Her vampires are just awesome. She’s also written a contemporary romance The Genius and the Muse, with a very grumpy tattooed artist (need I say more?) thats also brilliant. Anyway hope to check in again!
Hey, I love your blog!
I was introduced to BDB 2 weeks ago and have read them all and am comtemplating reading them again! SO good! I have to say that although Zsadist’s story was my favourite book I am torn between John Matthew and V as my favourite! I did like Tohr’s story too. Oh I love all of them!! I am going to give Joey W Hill’s Vampire Queen series a go since a few people have been raving about it ha!
I highly recommend the Gerry Bartlett’s Real Vampire Series.
Love love love
Hi, I just found your blog and love it. Have you tried Molly Harper’s “Good girls don’t have fangs?” It is so much fun and Jane is a great character.
Holy Crap!! This was the discussion that you and I had last year! How did I miss this page for more than 1 year??? 🙂 Off your recommendations I have read most of these series… Looking for new ideas now. Are there any new series, that you would add to this list since you posted this???
Hi Maryse 🙂 I LOVE your blog! I have read quiet a few of your suggestions.
Have you tried the Dark Secrets Series by A.M. Hudson (Vampires)? At the moment there are 4 books out and books 5& 6 are to be released.
Here is the link to her site: http://www.darksecretsseries.com/
I love this blog!!! Absolutely! I Love the BDB series and think you are 100% correct in giving it number one!
So I know now that Z and Rehv are spoken for… But Tohr is mine!!! My heart broke for him. I loved Wellsie and I was therefore sceptical about him getting together with Autumn. But I really liked her too.
When Autumn went into her needing, I was very disappointed with how Tohr verbally abused her.
You are my go to girl for all things literary. I have LOVED all of your suggestions and you have gotten me hooked onto authors that I never heard of. Thanks for this page- I have exhausted all of your Vampire suggestions and most of the Paranormal fiction, but I know that I can count on you to lead me some great reading!
To Maryse,
Have you had a chance to read the Lords of the Underworld yet by Gena Showalter????? The hottest guys ever I hope you update your top ten after you read them, I dont know anyone who wouldn’t put them in their top three lol…. Let me know your opinions on them please. Oh and please keep in mind Nora Roberts, The Circle Trilogy, those are the books that got me hooked on paranormal romance in the first place….. Happy Reading…
I have read BDB and still think the Lords of the Underworld are better, I don’t know why but to me the men are just sexier and I was so captivated I couldn’t put them down. My best friend and I (I got her hooked on them too lol) actually got the butterfly tattoos. I know that sounds a bit weird but we are both very big readers and since those are our favorite books of all time we decided to get something to represent our love of books and what better than a bada** butterfly tat. LOL…. Though I have to say that ACHERON from Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark Hunters is my husband lol…..
JR ward’s BDB my all time favorite in this genre and I can hardly wait for the next one coming in April. Ward has done such a great job .developing her series. If you haven’t read it her book The Black Dagger Brotherhood, An Insider’s Guide is very good. Has deleted scenes, “interviews” between Ward and the Brothers, a novella, and some insights into her writing methods. Which makes me wonder about Laurell Hamilton and how she has managed to pretty much write Anita Blake into a corner. She has soooo many men her life and so many sex partners, that’s its strangely not very sexy anymore. Makes me sad. There’s still some good moments. I loved the whole story with Nathaniel. Its just gotten messy. Also I think she also wrote her series about Meredith the Fairy princess into a corner. I loved the series, though and some of my favorite male characters, she just abruptly stopped it, and there was no satisfying ending for the series. still I recommend the series.
Have you yet read the Afterlife Sage by Stephanie Hudson? The first is Afterlife, the 2nd The Two Kings and the 3rd The Tripple Goddess she is writing 7 books altogether and so far the first 3 are so incredible you must read. Jusx
I’ve been looking for more Vamp series and you just gave me the ones I haven’t tried and the ones I love! Vamps are the BEST!!! Please post any new ones you find I would be so thankful 🙂
Has anyone read the New Species series by laurana Dohner? Ghere are 11 books so far. Mercile labs combined human DNA with animal DNA and created a new species. They were rescued and given given land. The first is about Fury and the human woman he takes as a mate. Something different and good reads. Also, if you like books about the fae you should read the fice book series by C L Wilson. Lord of the Fading Lands, Lady of Light and Shadow, King of Sword and Sky, Queen of Song and Souls, Crown of Crystal Flame. Really good!
I found your site today… Totally agree with your top 10, as well as most of the posts I’ve read. I wanted to add a few Authors I don’t remember seeing listed…. Amanda Ashley (Several different series), Christina Dodd (Chosen Ones Series & Darkness Chosen Series), J K Beck (Shadow Keepers Series), Jennifer Ashley (Immortal Series), Kate Hill (Ancient Blood Series), Katie MacAlister (Dark Ones Series), Kresley Cole (Immortals After Dark Series), Laura Wright (Mark of the Vampire Series & Black Woods Series), Marie Treanor (Awakened by Blood Series), Rebecca Zanetti (The Dark Protector Series… Love Love Love them!!), Maggie Shayne (Wings in the Night Series… Couldn’t put them down!!!), Rosemary Laurey (Forever Vampire Series), Selena Blake (Look her up if you also love very yummy were creatures!)
I hope adding these authors to the wonderful ones already mentioned on this site brings you all many many hours of exciting reading!!
You must read the Hallows Series its the Best I’ve ever read it’s By Kim Harrison and 14 book in it the latest one comes out Feb 2014
Happi Reading Karen
I am also a big lover of BDB, I think I have the king on pre-order, so soon enough I’ll have my fix.
Speaking of fixes, I admit that I have not read all of the series listed here but I am a keen fan of the Mageverse Series by Angela Knight (includes your vampires, dragons, mages, witches, warlocks, etc).
Second series is newer, The Beladors by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love. This one is excellent, I have missed many a nights sleep over this one. The story if flowing so quickly and the main character Evalle is quite entertaining.
Enjoy!!
I really am so glad I found this sight. A couple of my favorites vampire and paranormal series are:
Immortal Guardians Series by Diane Duvall
Prime Vampire Series by Susan Sizemore
Dark Dynasty Series by Kendra Leigh Castle
Dark Sword and Dark Warrior Series by Donna Grant
The Others Series by Christine Warren
Does anyone know of a series with a vampire called Morgan or something like that and the series travels back and forth between modern times and the 1600s and centuries in between? Someone mentioned how they really liked this series but I didn’t catch the name or author.
One series that I think is overlooked and is fun is the Real vampire series by Gerry Bartlett. The main character is a female vampire that was turned when she was a little overweight, as bigger women were in fashion during her day, and then she was doomed to eternity being an extra curvy vamp. Her sire, and soul-mate is a hot Scotsman named Jerry and although they have their struggles through the centuries, largely due to Glories struggles for independence from this heroic but old fashioned hunk in a kilt, they always seem to end up back in each others arms. This story is an funny mix between the insecurities that every women goes through, a hot and passionate love affair for the ages, and the exciting misadventures of Glory and her friends dealing with the challenges of the supernatural world. It’s sexy, exciting,scary and best of all in this sometimes overdone genre, its well written. I’m currently reading the latest in the series, Real Vampires Know Size Matters but the series begins with Real Vampires Have Curves.
Morganville Vampire series
Dear Maryse,
Thank GOD I found your blog!!! Most of my friends don’t read paranormal romance, so I have no one talk to about my love for these series! They won’t take my recommendations because mine “don’t involve humans” lol! Anywho, I LOVE BDB (V, Butch & John are my favs)! The Damonica Series is excellent. So is the Dark Protector series by Rebecca Zanetti and The Feral Warriors series by Pamela Palmer. So glad I now have so many other options. THANKS!!!!
okay, I know this is your top 10, but I have serious issue with stephanie myers books even being considered. And no Anne Rice?
Stephenie Meyer’s books are what introduced me to the genre (meaning… to vampires as I had no previous interest in them whatsoever) and opened up my intense love of reading. 4 to 5 years reading books like a fiend, all thanks to her, and I wouldn’t change a thing. 🙂 Before that, I only read autobiographies.
Morganville vampires, house of night
My favorites are the Night huntress series and the Chicagoland vampires series. I think a couple people mentioned that one and I would highly recommend it. It takes a long time for the love story to work it’s way out but I love the main character, Merit. I also really like the humor in it.
u might also like christine feehan dark series there are 25 so far in the series i love each an everyone of them.
Hey.. you forgot Vampire diaries.. .thats a vry passionate series which combines love, friendship, action, mystery and all emotions in one series
Have you tried Diane Whiteside’s Bond of Blood series? Its awesome!
Maryse and everyone else,
First I would just like to say Christine Feehan started me off then lead me to look for more and lead me to your website, Maryse where I keep finding my fantasy books. I must say some of my favorite authors are, Diane Duvall, G.A. Aiken (Sexy Dragons) JR Ward, Caris Roane, Sherrilyn Kenyon and def by far the Black Dagger Brotherhood! Thanks to you Maryse although Vampires are my favorite I have strayed off a bit and am now reading the series Tristan and Danika and just started book 3, awesome triology. Some other great series are The Three by Kristen Ashley very good and Fantasyland series bad boys. 🙂
I couldn’t agree more with you about the Anita Blake series. There should be a point when all should stop. I mean… 3 books should be enough for the whole story to be told. Even 4 I can survive. But 8…. I couldn’t. I haven’t read the last 4 books and I don’t want to. Jean-Clode was all sweet and charming and dangerous and all but… it’s getting boring to read 8 books about this tough chic who can’t decide what to do in the love department.As you said it… it’s just too much.
hi.
i just love BDB – z,wrath ,rehv and rhage mainly…
and the Midnight Breeds series..lucan,rio,tegan and niko.. mostly ..also kade
hmmm.. may try argeneau series
good site
also forgot twilight.. but i think i started with dracula movie..vampire i mean
then there underworld
but in books i was hooked into it by edward cullen…
Although i luv many of the series you named, i noticed a few great series missing. Kresley Cole’s (immortals after dark) one of the best series i’ve read. Gena Snowalter’s (lords of the underworld) another must read, & larissa ione’s (demonica series) just a few that must be mentioned because they are just that amazing! Happy reading
Hi Luba!
Just check out my Top Ten PARANORMAL series, and you’ll see them on there. 😉
https://www.maryse.net/books/my-top-ten-favorite-paranormal-series.html
The Mercy Thompson series by Patricia Briggs is great. I can’t wait for the next one – you have vampires, werewolves, faes, and a walker. It is an interesting enjoyable group where you wonder how the coyote will get in trouble or out of trouble this time especially being married to the werewolf alpha.
I also want to thank you on always being to look up the reading order of the series when needed and your recommendations match my taste.
I agree with a few on your top ten list and only because the others I have not read. I am so surprised so many people started reading PNR and vampire ones in general because of Twilight being their first taste of it. I will say the original teen love triangle was the Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith that came out way before Twilight ever was thought of. VD is good and Damon in the book mmm delicious (Ian definitely makes him even more so) however they’re juvenile/teen (and not like the tv series, it doesn’t follow the books) compared to what is out there nowadays but to me will always be better than Twilight. Vampire Diaries was what made bad boy vampires with hearts of gold my favorite thing in a paranormal series before that it was just the random books that from Christopher Pike and R.L. Stine (not goosebumps those to me were more kid than teen) that had paranormal thrown in that I would read (wasn’t ever really into just plain normal books). I devoured every L.J. Smith book she had out until she abruptly ended writing in the middle of a series (still waiting for that last book 15yrs later). Because of the slim selection in the Teen section I started wandering and found a book cover that interested me and just happened to be in the romance section Amanda Ashley Wings in the Night series (vampires) made it where I’ve never looked back. I still occasionally will read a series from young adult but I like my PNR and even sexier vampire bad boys and it has grown so much. I come on this site just to keep track of what’s coming and going now and the order to read it. Not able to do it on my own anymore. I really can’t say what vampires are my favorite as there have been so many over the years. There are several series people have mentioned that are so good and everytime a book comes out I can’t put it down Kim Harrison being one (can’t believe it’s about to end)and Lynsay Sands. I’m behind on a few other’s that used to be my favorites but somehow a book or two just didn’t cut it for me and I lost interest (Christine Feehan, Charlaine Harris, Mary Janice Davidson, etc) and now need to pick them back up. I’ll give a few suggestions maybe you’ve read them maybe not and not neccessarily all will be vampire books but I agree the Chloe Neill – Chicagoland Vampires series, Patricia Briggs, Kresley Cole, and the L.A. Banks. Kelley Armstrong – Women of the Otherworld series, Cat Adams – Blood Singer series, Michele Bardsley – Broken Heart Series, Jennifer Estep – Elemental Assasin series, Lydia Dare, Nina Bangs, Amanda Ashley, Dakota Cassidy – Accidental series, just found this one Brooklyn Ann – Scandals with Bite series, H.P. Mallory, Carrie Vaughn Kitty Norville series, Cecy Robson – Weird Girls series, Molly Harper, Christine Warren…these are just the ones I can think of right now. I didn’t mention a few because other’s have already mentioned them and they are good too what I’ve read of them. Finally I will say I am so sad in the direction Anita Blake series took to me the first 8 were great I couldn’t put them down and then she just kept messing with a good thing and made it so boring and not enough story to keep me interested. I even like a few after the first 8 but not how I love the first eight. I still read it only because I want to know what happens but the things that pulled me in and made me never want to put it down are missing. She’s slowly brought back a little bit of the kick-ass Anita in the last few but there’s still too much of the overwhelming amount of boyfriends. I don’t care what Hamilton does in her own love life but I really don’t like that she has put that into her writing to such an overbearing degree. When I can literally count page after page of sex scenes with guy after guy and it’s practically the whole book then that’s not a book. Anita used to have a life and a job and was more normal and yes it was annoying at times when she was indecisive between Jean-Claude and Richard but when she finally chose her guy I didn’t want it to become 10 guys. Don’t get me wrong a few that she has chosen to add along the way are ones I wouldn’t like to see gone and like when characters gain more strength/powers but I also want the story that used to be there in the beginning the danger, the thrill. I’m hoping that with the last two having I’m pretty sure if I counted less sex scenes that she’s finally realized it’s not what people want. They want a story and those scenes should further the story not take over the story. Too bad she’s lost a lot along the way.
why do you not have any elizabeth hunter on your list?????
you HAVE to read the elemental mysteries (and then the other books in the elemental world). i promise that you will love them 🙂
Hi there my name is Colleen. I love the fact that there is finally a blog that i can go to to see what new in vampire series. I see you do not have the Carperthian series on your list. I would really recommend u read it, its almost like the black daggar brotherwood so try it would never want to put it down book after book after book.
Have seen this one mentioned a few times here but have to recommend it again. The Real Vampires Series by Gerry Bartlett
The first one is Real Vampires Have Curves
Bartlett brings a fresh spin to paranormal chick lit with this clever combination of suspense and humor and wonderful style. Hang on to your seats—this book is a wild ride!”—Romantic Times Book Reviews
Love this series and for me it is right up there with Sookie Series and Twilight. If you like those you will love Glory and her bunch.
Im with you 100% Zadist was my absolute favorite brother though I fell in love with each book I could re-read Zs book 100 times over. Love your list!
If your looking for a good vampire book series then try – The Blood Ties.
Amazing book loved it a lot! Be careful, its not as innocent as Twilight. Its more of Twilight and Fifty Shades mixed! I loved it!! Hope you enjoy!!
Thank you Robyn!!
I am super excited that I stumbled on to your blog! As per one of your recommendations, I just finished reading the Night Huntress series by J, Frost and it was simply amazing! I’ve read a few of the other series your mentioned in your top ten list and thought I’d add two of my top 5 underworld series for you and your readers. I loved the vampire academy series by Richelle Meade (FYI the first book was released as a movie in 2014 for anyone is interested, but I must say the book was 10 time better!) If you’re a V.A fan , then you should definitely read the spinoff series Bloodlines by Meade. A lot of character crossover & just as addicting! The other series I HAVE to recommend is the Underworld Series by Kelley Armstrong. It is by FAR my favorite oof the paranormal /underworld series I have ever read! This series has two spinoff series which go hand in hand with one another. The best way to read the books is by following the others recommended reading order where the spinoff series are mixed into the order. As much as I loved other series you’ve recommended, I’m veryyy confident Armstrong’s Underworld series would fall into your top 5 😉 Ohh I should probably mention that this series was recently turned into a TV series which has just finished its 2nd season. As with most series which stem from books, the book series is much better than the tv show, but I must say, the shows still pretty good. I always tell people that if a movie or TV show stems from a book, you know that books going to be dam good! I always have to read the book before watching it on screen & can’t help but to compare the two. Anyone else on here a fan of Armstrong’s Underworld series?
Hey Maryse. It’s been a long while I haven’t talked to you…Now, the Black Dagger Brotherhood is my ALL MY TIME FAVORITE, but ..I’ve just read a new Paranormal Series, that I quite liked actually. Maybe you could add it to this list? It’s called: The Protectors Series, by Author Teresa Gabelman, and Book #1 thru 6 are out for now. She’s more books coming in this series. They’re Vampire Warriors, and Humans knows about it. But, there’s lots of back stabbing politics, action, romance and sexy scenes. And lots of their love mates are Humans, which is the best part, right? Hehe. Anyway, you should read and see if you like it enough to put in this list. Thanks!!!
Just found your blog, while looking for new reads. so gonna try a few out that you mentioned. just finished the Sookie Stackhouse novels. thanks for the recommendation.
I went through your list and I didn’t see Christeine Feehans name on your list. If you haven’t read The Dark series by Christeine Feehan you really have to. Those books got me hooked on books.
Not sure if anybody else has mentioned it but I totally recommend L.J. smith’s night world. So amazing. I instantly fell in love.
Would you say true blood follows the books closely?
Kate,
I read all of the Sookie Stackhouse books and Trueblood does not really follow the books, especially after the 2nd season. Disappointing.
I am looking for a new Vamp love series, with action, mystery etc.
A few that i have read:
The Firsts by C. L Quinn, I strongly recommend!!!
The Mageri Series by Dannika Dark (this has everything i loved it)
Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead
The Spin off to Vampire Academy (Bloodlines by Richelle Mead)
The Covenant Series by Jennifer Armertrout
Touch of Frost series by Jennifer Estep
I like the crossfire seria by Sylvia day
Great list..have you read M Leighton’s Blood Like Poison series? It’s good.:-)
I’m trying to remember a series with a female lead that turns into a panther or large cat and also fights rogue vampiers.?
Like Jami said, try House of Night series by PC and Kristen Cast, really good!
These next two arent vampire oriented but they are supernatural-The Shiver trilogy (forgot author but if you type in trilogy it should come up) and the Fallen series by Lauren Kate-theyre really good too!
“You love me too? Great! By the way, I’m a vampire”… I want a list of some more series with such background, where the female protagonist has no idea about the blending immortal world…
And btw thanks a lot to u Maryse. I don’t know if u will believe me or not. But it was your site that introduced me to the world of young adult novels. And now after almost 2 years, i have gobbled up all above series and some more…
And Sherrilyn Kenyon is my fav author. I think I love all her works, but especially the Dark Hunter novella are awesomest.
Hello Maryse, I just wanted to say thank you for your views on the books. I have been looking for more paranormal romance that is sexy, funny and have a good theme and your list and what you said about each series is perfect.
My 2 favorite so far are The Carpathians by Christine Feehan and Dark Hunters by Sherrilyn Kenyon.
Something that has nothing to do with Vampires but is my all time favorite and you might enjoy it….The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher.
Thank you again.
BTW…my mom’s name is Marige….lol.
*hug*
My please Sunny!! And thank YOU for your sweet comments! They made my day!! 😀
Great list..have you read The Shade Of Vampire by Bella Forrest series? I totally love it.
hi Maryse,
i like u r list, thanks for sharing but just wanted to say that i so read and love the books;Lynsay Sands Argeneau Vampires,Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy,Charlaine Harris’s Southern Vampire Mysteries (Sookie Stackhouse Series),Jill Myles’s Succubus Diaries,Lara Adrian’s Midnight Breed. they all amazing, funny, hilarious, romantic and some made me cry and feel so emotional inside. thanks again and still reading other brilliant, awesome books.
This post was perfection for me. You kept it sweet simple and to the point. Twilight was also my intro to the whole vampire thing (fear conquered! lol) and then, like you, Eric Northman and Bill Compton sent my love for this genre into the stratosphere! Having watched the whole True Blood series and read all the Sookie Stackhouse (fave name for a book character EVER), I was craving more of that world and the magic happened. My co-worker told me to read the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Boy oh boy! I may never leave this genre now! I am currently reading Book # 10 of the series (Tohrment’s story) and I am in love with this series!!! It’s so hard to pick a favorite brother. My co-worker also told me about several others you have on this list. But those I hadn’t heard of yet, I have marked them a to read. So my Google search that led me here was a good one! 🙂
YAY Theresa!!!
OMG do we have some more recommendations for you!!! 😀
Great list but you should add Chloe Neill’s Chicagoland vampires and Rachel Caine’s Morganville vampires. Love them!!
Thank you so much for this list…I have listened to almost all of them…I recently listened to The Blueblood Series by Melissa de la Cruz and I was shocked on how much I loved it…So many more series I’ve listened to that aren’t on your list as well but I must say BDB is of course my favorite…In love with Rhage <3……
Let me know your favorites, Mary!!
I’ll make a “reader recommendations” list of everyones favorites! 🙂
Oh you got it lol
BDB, Argeneau Series, The Night Huntress Series and the spinoffs, Immortal Guardians, Vampire Academy & Bloodlines Series, Undead Series (hysterical), Guardians of Eternity, Sookie Stackhouse Series, Midnight Breed, Love at Stakes, House of Night, Chicagoland Vampires, Morganville Vampires plus so many more that I’d have to go through my list
Antia Blake is #1 for me!!!
I love Sherrilyn Kenyon and JR Ward – in fact, I am rereading the Black Dagger Brotherhood from the beginning, again. I am going to look over the series that I am not familiar with – and thank you for the forum. I have one question: how can you leave out the Carpathians (by Christine Feehan)?!
LOL Karen!!! I get you!! Carpathians are for sure a beloved series around here. Unfortunately, for me, just not in my top 10. 🙂