Vampire Ventures: Poems

by LindaAnn LoSchiavo

"Vampire Ventures" beckons readers to embrace the mystique of the shadow sphere and savor the forbidden allure of encounters with the undead — be it a moonlit rendezvous, an otherworldly romance, or a seductive soiree thrown by the enigmatic Count himself. In a realm where immortal desires and human emotions intertwine, 19 poems use the tropes of popular culture to explore the paradox of "living in death," a theme central to the vampire mythos.

"Vampire Ventures" showcases LoSchiavo’s formal versatility: Fibonacci, haiku, golden shovel, villanelle, sonnet, prose poem, and the decasyllabic lines of poems that seem otherwise unconstrained. She’s equally adept at shifting among tones, from the eerie to the ironic. Her work is encrusted with images and phrases that will sparkle in the dark behind your eyelids long after you’ve finished reading.
— — Carl Bettis, Editor-in-Chief, Tiny Frights

"Vampire’s Ventures" is a wonderful compilation of dark enchantments. LindaAnn LoSchiavo’s poetry is a rich tapestry of both new and original vampire lore. While discovering these pages, I found myself reading quickly, fueled by the excitement of her content, while at the same time, lingering on the beauty of her words.
— — Jeani Rector, Editor-in-Chief, The Horror Zine

There's romance, humor and blood in "Vampire Ventures" — like in the good old times.
— — Mark Benecke, President, Transylvanian Society of Dracula

"Vampire Ventures," LindaAnn's new collection, is a rich cocktail of Vampire Lore. Her eclectic style, bold and imaginative choice of language and sophisticated word play, adds gravitas to a beloved genre. "The Tale of the Vintner's Daughter" is a particular favorite, highly evocative, nuanced and as deftly constructed as a spider web.
— — John Stocks, Poetry Editor, Bewildering Stories

Genres: Poetry, Horror, Fiction, Death

41 pages, Paperback

Published October 4, 2023

About the author

Native New Yorker and award-winner, LindaAnn LoSchiavo is a member of British Fantasy Society, Horror Writers Association, Science Fiction Poetry Association, and The Dramatists Guild.

Between 2018-2025, she has had nine chapbooks and two full-length collections released by various presses in the USA, the UK, and India.

Book Accolades: Elgin Award for "A Route Obscure and Lonely"; Chrysalis BREW Project’s Award for Excellence and The World’s Best Magazine’s Book of Excellence Award for "Always Haunted: Hallowe’en Poems"; and the Spotlyts Story Award from Spotlyts Magazine for "Apprenticed to the Night."

Additionally, "Always Haunted: Hallowe’en Poems" achieved recognition as a 3rd Place Finalist in Chrysalis BREW Project’s Readers’ Choice Awards, 2024 - 2025.

In 2023, her poetry placed as a finalist in Thirty West Publishing's "Fresh Start Contest" and in the 8th annual Stephen DiBiase contest.

LoSchiavo is a Prohibition Era historian and her Texas Guinan film won "Best Feature Documentary" at N.Y. Women's Film Fest (Dec. 2021).
― ― links ― ―
https://linktr.ee/LindaAnn.LoSchiavo

Reviews

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am not a big poetry reader but was intrigued when the author reached out to me concerning this unique collection of poems. This is a collection of poetry that you will want to take a bite out of (lame, lame, I know). If you enjoy poetry and reading vampire books/lore/poetry, this is the collection of poems for you. It's a fast read which can easily be read in one sitting. The author writes in different poetry forms which added to my enjoyment of this collection. I loved the vibe of the poems. Many of the poems are modern (one where a Mr. D. and a young woman converse using a dating app) but some, especially the first in the collection, have a very old feel to them (one where a young noblewoman is hoping to find love with the new count in the area). There is also humor in the poetry which I enjoyed as well.

I'm glad I took a chance on this collection! It was enjoyable, dark, captivating, original and creative.

Thank you to LindaAnn LoSchiavo, the publisher and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this poetry collection in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.

Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com

[Ann Schwader · Rating 4 out of 5]

[I received an e-copy of this collection from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.]

This slim chapbook offers exactly what the title implies: vampire poetry in a number of forms, all executed by an experienced speculative poet who knows what she's doing. The focus is mostly on Dracula (both character and novel) , though many of the poems are set in contemporary times and none of them felt old-fashioned in a pejorative sense. Forms range from sonnet to prose poem to Fibonacci to the first truly dark Golden Shovel I've encountered, along with two longer narrative poems which felt more like free verse.

The overall feeling of this collection is fun rather than heavily Gothic, though there's plenty of depth. Poetically inclined fang-fans might find it a tasty seasonal stocking stuffer.

[LX · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars!

This was so different and enjoyable! There are different types of poetry, sort of haiku, prose, even some parts that read more like a short story, but that's what made this so different and fascinating to read.

A very fast read but very glad I went for it, my fave was probably reading about the dating profiles and his profile name on it as it was a sort of modern short story - that made me have a cackle and was so well done. I'm excited to read more from LindaAnn LoSchiavo!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC to review!

[Jessica Dickenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could have rushed through this book of poetry, but I am so glad I took my time to savor it.

There is an appropriate voluptuousness to LindaAnn LoSchiavo's poetry. Many modern poetry books have an artful simplicity about them, but LoSchiavo abandons that convention to take on a vampiric quality. I can't put my finger on it, but it feels like how a book of vampire stories should feel. It's Gothic and vaguely Victorian.

There is an irregular cadence to the poems which may be off-putting. On one page you have a blank verse poem and on the next a haiku. I think it is intentional to make the reader feel a sense of discomfort as you sit down to read each poem in quick succession.

I am impressed with LoSchiavo's breadth and talent. Usually, poets find a form that suits them best and stick with it, but LoSchiavo knocks each of her poems out of the park. I consulted the description several times to confirm this wasn't an anthology.

There is a poem to suit everyone's tastes and if you love vampires, I think you have to give this book a try.

[Kyle Wendy Skultety (gimmethatbook.com) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this review copy!

LindaAnn LoSchiavo's Vampire Ventures is a haunting journey into the underworld of the vampire mythos, reimagined with a modern twist. Through her lyrical verse, Loschiavo offers a fresh perspective on these gothic creatures of the night.

One of the strengths of this collection is the author's unique talent for creating vivid and memorable characters. Her vampires are not mere stereotypes but individuals with their own unique personalities and histories, with their own desires, fears, and hopes. From the brooding and enigmatic count (A tall, lean figure moved towards me, skullish in his gauntness and unworldly pallor), to the rebellious and free-spirited vampiress, each poem introduces a distinct character that invites the reader to connect on a deeper level.

The poems are steeped in lush descriptions (rosy cheeks as velvety as a ventricle). Readers are transported to shadowy alleyways, grand gothic manors, and moonlit nights where vampires lurk, not as fearsome predators but as creatures in search of meaning. LoSchiavo’s vampires are multifaceted—they embody both the romanticized notion of the seductive, powerful being and the tragic figure haunted by centuries of existence.

The author’s use of language is both evocative and precise. Her imagery is rich and atmospheric, painting pictures of a world that is both familiar and mysterious in the reader's mind. She skillfully employs various poetic forms, including sonnets, haikus, Fibonacci, and villanelles, demonstrating her versatility as a poet. (Learning about these unusual structures expanded my knowledge of poetry AND instilled new respect for the author. Telling a story under the constrictions of each type of poem is no easy feat.) Each poem is a journey of its own, often blending dark humor with somber reflection. The use of rhythm and meter enhances the haunting, melodic quality of the collection. LoSchiavo's poetry is accessible yet deeply layered:

Like trees, we’ve bound ourselves below without

Burial, cocooned in soil, still sentient,

Possessed of appetites, required to feast.

Readers are invited to engage with the subtext while still enjoying the visceral, gothic beauty of the surface-level narratives. While the collection primarily focuses on the romantic and sensual aspects of vampire lore, LoSchiavo also explores darker themes such as loneliness, isolation, and the consequences of immortality:

“No

One

Begs for

Life-in-death,”

Explained the vampire. “Immortality takes effort.”




Her poems offer a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of these complex issues, inviting the reader to consider the psychological impact of not only living forever, but the challenges of living forever in a world that is constantly changing.

Vampire Ventures is a mesmerizing collection of poems that explore the dark and alluring world of vampires, transforming a well-worn trope into something fresh and introspective. While the collection is brief, each poem leaves a lingering impact, allowing readers to contemplate the complexities of the human (and non-human) condition.

For lovers of gothic literature, horror, and poetry, this collection is a must-read. It will appeal to those who enjoy the darker side of the supernatural but are also looking for more profound emotional depth in their reading. LoSchiavo's writing is engaging enough to draw in even those new to the genre.

[Horror Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampires have fallen out of favor in the horror world over the past few years. That's a shame because the legend of these creatures are truly nightmare fuel. An undead being who can turn into a bat and sustains itself by drinking the blood straight from your veins? C'mon! That's about as frightening as you can get.

Luckily, authors like this one "get" what vampires are supposed to be and what they represent. And in this amazing collection of nineteen poems, you'll once again experience them for what they truly are.

Going back to their roots from the late 1800s, we start this collection with The Vinters Daughter. A deliciously creepy poem about a young woman looking to court the handsome well-to-do count who is arriving to their town soon. This theme of people being practically blind to red flags in their quest for romance or a better life is one that runs through the vampiric lore and it's used to great effect in this book.

I especially enjoyed the poems that take place in the present. It's an interesting concept to think of vampires in our modern society. How would they survive? How would they gather their victims in a world of constant surveillance? How would they adapt to continue unimpeded?

We'll see some of that here. A string of text messages from a dating app between a young woman looking for love, excitement, and adventure and a man who calls himself Mr. D. Again, the subject of ignoring any red flags is prevalent. She hears what she wants and is willing to ignore the messages that are a bit cryptic and, maybe, impossible. We can only ponder how relevant this is even without the inclusion of vampires. We've all heard the real life horror stories from dating sites and it's easy to imagine that, somewhere, there had to have been warning signs.

Writing evocative poetry is a talent I don't possess so those that do it this well have my respect. There are a number of different style of poems in here. And even the ones with a scant four stanzas tell a story, provide the creepy feeling, and dares you to keep reading.

By the end of this collection, if you're like me, you'll find your love for this severely cast aside sub-genre renewed again. Vampires are "romantic" but they are also horrifying. And putting those elements together so they provide the entire picture is what this author has done.

This is a book you'll want to read often and each time garner some tidbit you might have missed before. It's a great example of horror poetry done right and I can't recommend it enough.

I want to thank the author for providing the ARC of this book with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.

[Joshua Gage · Rating 5 out of 5]

Native New Yorker LindaAnn LoSchiavo (she/her), a four-time nominee for The Pushcart Prize, is a member of SFPA, British Fantasy Society, and Dramatists Guild. She is the author of multiple poetry collections. Her newest, Vampire Ventures, is a chapbook of poetry based on Dracula and other vampire myths and legends.

Vampire Ventures is an attempt to do a modern retelling or create a modern addition to the Dracula mythos. This is a modern poem cycle, clearly set in a modernity that includes dating profiles and Google. Dracula is referred to as “Count D.,” as an internet username, and the speaker wonders about “dick pics.” The contemporary feel and flavor of these poems is interesting, and reads as refreshing. In a poem like “Vampires in Training,” the speaker complains about the struggles of her social media manager posting instructions on becoming a vampire and getting blocked; instructions which include lines like:

Imagine this: blood pumping, spurting straight
From puncture’s wounds, red tears in human flesh,
Aromas coppery, sweet pungent sweat,
As it’s consumed, tonight’s hot chalice drained.

The contrast between the blood and body horror of the vampiric experience juxtaposed against legal battles with social media makes for a unique reading experience.

Readers familiar with LoSchiavo’s work will be familiar with her use of formal poetry. Here the rhythmic lines of iambic pentameter which she favors are present, but there are a few experiments as well. LoSchiavo seems to be attempting to surprise readers familiar with her work with shocks and jumps, replicating the odd juxtapositions in the content of her poems. We see a Fibonacci poem in “Immortality,” or titled 5-7-5 “horrorku” in “Bram Stoker’s Recipe” or “Concentration.” LoSchiavo is stepping outside her comfort zone, and while these experiments are rough, they’re not without merit, either.

Readers of horror poetry will know LoSchiavo’s work. She has been nominated for every speculative poetry award imaginable, as well as a lot of more traditional literary awards, as well. She is consistent in her poetry, and Vampire Ventures is no exception. Fans of horror poetry will probably already have this book on their shelves, but in case they missed the signal, here’s a boost. Beyond that, vampire fans and folks willing to take a chance on poetry that reads like Bram Stoker meets a TikTok challenge are really going to enjoy this fun chapbook.

[Jxn · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Vampire Ventures" takes readers on a thrilling and enchanting journey through a collection of captivating tales. With a unique blend of romance, mystery, and the supernatural, LoSchiavo breathes new life into the vampire genre, delivering a fresh and enticing perspective that will leave readers eagerly turning every page. One of the highlights of this collection is LoSchiavo's remarkable ability to skillfully blend elements of classic gothic romance with a modern sensibility. Each story is carefully crafted, showcasing the author's mastery of storytelling. With every turn of phrase, LoSchiavo paints vivid scenes that transport readers into a world filled with intrigue and suspense. Throughout the chapbook, the author seamlessly weaves together themes of desire, transformation, and the clash between tradition and modernity. These themes serve as powerful undercurrents that add depth and complexity to the narratives. LoSchiavo's attention to detail is evident, as she intricately constructs each story to create a truly immersive experience for the reader. "Vampire Ventures" is a testament to the author's ability to meld tradition and innovation. The collection strikes a delicate balance between paying homage to the timeless themes and tropes of vampire lore, while also introducing fresh and imaginative ideas. This fusion results in a collection that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, appealing to readers who appreciate a modern twist on classic tales. For those who crave a fresh take on timeless themes, as well as those who revel in the art of storytelling that transcends genres and eras, "Vampire Ventures" is a must-read. LindaAnn LoSchiavo's masterful writing will leave readers captivated, craving more of her unique and enthralling narratives.

[Madison King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Ventures is a narrative poetry book that goes through the life of Count Dracula and the people that he courts. I particularly enjoyed the college student’s point of view of being courted by Count Dracula. I think this book is very well written and very innovative. It does a very good job of not being a cliche– which admittedly is hard for vampire lore. This gives me the feeling Carmilla did in the best way possible, with a bit of The Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner.

Count Dracula is a complex character well written with much of his humanity shown, despite his otherworldliness. It was very smart to have “The Tale of the Vintner’s Daughter” as the first poem of the anthology, because readers get to take a look into ‘Count D’ and the feelings surrounding him, and how women tend to react towards him.

I really enjoy the breaks of form: the author switches between single stanza to prose to haiku, this breaks up the monotony of single stanza poetry in a delicious way. I do really enjoy the pages of short stories inside of the poetry, readers get to see a more in depth version of ‘Count D’. I particularly liked the short story “Dating the Undead”. This almost irreverent short story brings a lot of humor to what before has been a dark subject. My favorite poem of the anthology is in the same vein, “An Ideal Lost in Night-Mists”. It's like a better Vampire Diaries– very nostalgic to me.

Overall, I loved this book. It is very creative, it is new and fresh. I recommend anyone getting tired with the monotony of poetry and romance books to check this short story out. This will break your slump.

[Ronald Weston · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vampire Ventures, LindaAnn LoSchiavo's new collection displays her talents in an exquisite blending of various poetic forms, storytelling, and imagery, depicting both the traditional vampire and adjustments needed for the modern undead. "The Tale of the Vintner's Daughter" and "Lucy Westenra, Somnambulist" are Stoker-style Dracula but "An Ideal Lost in Night Mists" and "Dracula Plans His Hallowe'en Soiree" show Dracula in his modern element. The "Lucy" POV is quite chilling and the dating website repartee of "Night Mists" is darkly humorous. Poetic lines are lingering: "I move in close, / Bestow my greatest gift: eternity." ("Blood's Kiss") "Daily duel with the dawn." ("Concentration") The succinct, jewel-like "Blood Lust," "Immortality," and "Concentration" are riveting. While modern in context "Defined by a Stygian Realm", for me, has a very Poesque sentiment. There are only 17 pieces in the Vampire Ventures chapbook, but all are memorable, and its length makes it easy to read multiple times. I definitely recommend this slim volume.

[Bea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read on November 9th, 2023. Written on November 10th, 2023.

This went deeper than I thought.

I won't lie, I was a bit confused at times but that just made the experience the more intriguing. It was captivating and, due to its small size, easy to read.

The romance, the references to Bram Stoker's Dracula, the funny parts, and so much more, they all weave together into a collection of poems that made me fall in love with vampires just a bit more. The writing was really good, capturing my attention the whole time.

The author did something really good here, and I really enjoyed reading this book. If you love indie poetry, grab this book and devour it until the last drop; it's all worth it.

Thank you for the opportunity!

(Free ARC from NetGalley and Independently Published that I chose to review after reading)

[Isa aka the "anintrovertrambles" · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first yime reading a narrative poetry book and I am glad to say that I actually loved it. So thank you netgalley for the book. This book is a brilliant collection of poetry with vast imagination that puts together the perfect blend of vampiric lore. The author had delivered this book in such a masterful way, I wish that I read this during Halloween. I missed that chance but I will be enjoying this one, again and again.

[Rebecca]

I don't know if the author of this work was intending for the story to present itself in such a humorous way, but I have to say I wasn't disappointed.

It was an interesting blend of classic Gothic romanticism (focusing on Dracula) with a new age (Gen-Z) twist to it that brought some humor into it.

[Seher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think Vampire Ventures is not marketed very well. A fresh take on the classics is a boring way to put a book like this one. It’s not something that should be taken too seriously, but read for entertainments sake.

I did really like the dating app story and the poems centred around that and ‘Lucy Westerna, Somnambulist’.

Thank you NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for the chance to read and review this book!

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting collection. Honestly though I felt like some of these were excerpts from short stories rather than poems. Some I could tell were poems and others felt like short stories. I still enjoyed my time with it.

[Mary Soon Lee]

A horror poetry chapbook that I read so I can vote responsibly for the Elgin Awards, it being one of this year's nominees.

Step into horror
Dracula charming new blood
undead appetite

[Jessica Salina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A variety of poem types and short stories, Vampire Ventures is equal parts spooky, romantic, and fun. The author has serious range when it comes to poetry, the lines beautifully written and evoking strong imagery. I love how the different poems mixed things up, covering classic vampire myths to more modern takes.

Thank you to the author for a copy!

[A Look Inside: Reviews and Interviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

LindaAnn LoSchiavo's 'Vampire Ventures' beckons readers into a realm where romance intertwines with the supernatural, crafting a collection that is both haunting and irresistible. Within its pages, LoSchiavo skillfully reimagines vampire lore, infusing it with a contemporary allure while paying homage to the gothic traditions of old.

Among the many gems in this captivating anthology, a few standout poems breathe life into its dark and enchanting narrative. 'During Happy Hour at the Undead Lounge' transports readers to a world where heartbreak and intrigue converge in the dimly lit corners of a vampire haunt. Through meticulous prose, LoSchiavo paints a vivid portrait of longing and desire, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy with expert precision.

In 'Villanelle: Defined by a Stygian Realm,' the author delves into the depths of darkness, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and eternal damnation. Through the lens of poetic form, LoSchiavo weaves a tale of seduction and deceit, inviting readers to confront the shadows that lurk within the human heart.

'Concentration' and 'Unquiet House' offer glimpses into the inner turmoil of immortal beings, shedding light on the complexities of their existence. Through these poignant verses, LoSchiavo explores the psychological and emotional toll of eternal life, drawing readers into a world where every moment is a battle against the ravages of time.

Finally, 'Bram Stoker’s Recipe' serves as a fitting tribute to the origins of vampire mythology, paying homage to the masterful storytelling of its namesake. With lyrical prose and a keen eye for detail, LoSchiavo captures the essence of Stoker's work, inviting readers to rediscover the timeless allure of these immortal creatures.

In 'Vampire Ventures,' LindaAnn LoSchiavo invites readers on a journey through the shadows, where love and fear intertwine in a dance as old as time itself. Through her exquisite prose and keen understanding of the human condition, LoSchiavo proves herself to be a master of the macabre, leaving an indelible mark on the world of supernatural literature.

[Betwixt the Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: unique spin on some well-known classics; pulls inspiration from across the centuries; lots of different poetry techniques used throughout; this collection really bites; quick, fun read

HUGE thanks to LindaAnn LoSchiavo and Alien Buddha Press for sending a free copy of this title my way in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.

This was SUCH a fun, quick read to work into the creepy season of the year. LindaAnn LoSchiavo utilized many different poetry types and techniques throughout this collection, all with a singular focus: vampires and their wily, bloody fangs. Inspiration is drawn from works of literature AND entertainment that span the centuries, from Pride and Prejudice to Dracula to Nightmare on Elm Street. I was kept enraptured and enthralled as this story unfolded, consistently wondering what could possibly come next from this bag (er...book?) of tricks.

The treat of this read was in the different techniques used throughout. There were haiku, villanelles, prose poetry, rhymes... each chosen to further tell the tale. Readers can tell how committed to the craft the author was, the care and exquisite detail placed not only in the types of techniques used, but also the language, the details, the visuals.

If you're a fan of poetry, I definitely recommend giving this read a try this Halloween season. LindaAnn LoSchiavo welds a pen with knowledge of her craft, and is sure to spin you for a ride you won't soon forget. Do you dare look the monster in the soul? Crack these pages...and find out.

[Yuko · Rating 5 out of 5]

Don't be fooled by the serious cover! LindaAnn LoSchiavo's "Vampire Venture" is a delightful poetry anthology that skillfully combines literary prowess with imaginative flair. The author breathes life into concise sentences, guiding us through the realms of the living and the undead. As we grapple with our mortality and the covert longing for immortality, the book serves as a beacon, offering the guidance we need to stay grounded and sane. It's a volume worth having in hard copy, a resource to return to when the need arises. (No, the author didn't request this review.) This is a book that resonates when life's uncertainties loom.

In contrast to Eastern vampire-like entities, such as Yurei and Obake, LindaAnn LoSchiavo's vampires in "Vampire Venture" exude vitality, passion, and charm. The dark theme carries a lightness, with the author's tasteful words bubbling up wit. The poetry gains deeper appreciation when read aloud, as the prose, sonnet, and haiku come alive through our auditory senses, creating a fully immersive experience. The book encapsulates rhythm, tone, melody, and all things musical in its compact form. It's a gem suitable even for children.

Special thanks to NetGalley and Alien Buddha Press for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Review

This was a compelling and engaging collection of poetry. The author’s unique writing style does a great job of crafting poetry that both speaks to us emotionally and touches upon great themes while also providing a captivating story that the reader can get lost in. The imagery that the author used in these poems was fantastic, allowing the reader to feel and visualize the gothic elements of the poems themselves coming to life on the page.

The heart of this narrative was the marriage of gothic storytelling and impactful themes that relate to our modern world. From tales of modern dating and the habit of ignoring immediate red flags, to the horror of being driven by uncontrolled nature, this collection was magnificent. The way the author explores vampire lore from both the perspective of the people enthralled by vampires and the vampires themselves makes this equally memorable.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, fast-paced, and thrilling, author LindaAnn LoSchiavo’s “Vampire Ventures” is a must-read poetry collection and just in time for the fall/spooky season. The powerful imagery and fabulous blend of vampire lore and strong themes made this a compelling collection that readers will return to time and time again.

[Mackenzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like vampires, then you need to check out Vampire Venture. Vampire Venture is a collection of vampire poems. Vampire Ventures is written from a contemporary lens, which I was not expecting. I assumed, that the poems would be focused in an older time and style, but that was not the case. This made reading light and refreshing. While contemporary in focus, the style in which the poem are written change throughout the work. This kept me engaged and interested to see how the next poem would be presented.

Vampire are always lurking in and out of popularity. It is nice to see a collections of poems focus on all that they are. Vampire Venture reflects on Dracula and other vampire myths through a modern lens. I found myself chuckling at some of the modern references that we all can relate to. Overall, I enjoyed Vampire Venture. It is not common to find a poetry the approaches vampires in such a creative and timely way.

[the vault · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for providing me an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Honestly, this collection was just okay. There were a few poems in here that I actually quite enjoyed or that I thought had beautiful lines, but overall I felt the poems were just somewhat bland, which is hard to accomplish when you're writing about vampires.

This book was fast enough to get through due to the short and easily digestible format, though any time I put it down, there was no desire to pick it back up. It just really didn't hold my interest or attention. I don't think the collection was bad or did anything wrong, it was just mediocre and could have accomplished more, I think.

[Mish Mash Succotash · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a delightful little snack. This short read was exactly what I was looking for-- a collection of dark, unstuffy, and self-confident poetry and short prose about vampires (Count Dracula, in particular) in both historical and more modern day contexts. LoSchiavo's stylistic range and thought-provoking delivery keeps things engaging from beginning to end.

The standout of this collection for me was An Ideal Lost in Night-Mists which explored how modern day vampires might engage with technology and younger generations to quench their thirst.

[Tatiana Fajardo · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Vampire Ventures", LindaAnn LoSchiavo combines traditional vampire folklore with modern lifestyle and technology, making her collection appealing to diverse horror lovers. Her unique and elegant use of the language creates a powerful imagery. "Oupire" is a particular favourite due to its mighty storytelling.
A highly recommendable poetic compilation for lovers of the classics "Dracula" and Polidori's influential Lord Ruthven as perceived in contemporary settings. A 5!

[Cat Treadwell · Rating 2 out of 5]

This collection confused me. Some parts were lovely, lyrical and evocative. Others were jarring, with frustrating dialogue and trendy text-speak.

I think I’d like to see what the author comes up with in prose, as while these were a mixed bag, if some of the scenarios were given more focus, they’d be great.

[Alex (Spells & Spaceships) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vampire Ventures is an interesting and unique collection that will be really enjoyed by poetry fans who are really into vampire lore and in particular, count Dracula.

I didn't personally connect with it so much but thought I'd give it a shot. Because I'm not massively clued up on poetic devices perhaps there were some poetry skills than I missed; people who are big on poetry will probably appreciate it more in that respect!

Though I certainly enjoyed some more than others, I found 'An Ideal Lost in Night-Mists Blood’s Kiss — November 2nd nightfall' a novel take on a vampiric romance and it was well done; I found it quite humorous and inventive! The modern tone on some of the entries worked better than on others and I think overall I'd have enjoyed a more gothic vibe for the majority of the poems than the tongue-in-cheek and modern, fun style in a number of them. So it's purely subjective to my personal tastes and there will be a ton of readers who will absolutely love this collection, which is well written, inventive and imaginative.

I think this book probably needs marketing to the right sort of reader to fully appreciate the achievement but I can certainly recommend it to Dracula fans who enjoy poetry.

[LindaAnn LoSchiavo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read "Vampire Ventures" free on NetGalley 'til 11-30-2023. Book Bloggers, I'm open to book give-aways & other opps. Feel free to contact me here or via Twitter (at) Mae_Westside. Thanks.

[Just Another Final Girl Review (Brittany) Levely-Connolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

“He taught me how to be a ghost part time.”
LindaAnn LoSchiavo poetry collection is not about sparkly friendly vampires or vampires who have souls, she wipes the slate clean and gives us something more than campy vibes or teen romances.
This poetry collection about vampires brings Count Dracula into the modern age and asks us how would he hunt now? How
Would he find victims, get away with murder? What would it look like if vampires used dating apps or wrote memoirs published under pseudonyms? What would they think of horror movies like Nightmare on Elm Street?

She draws on traditional vampire mythology
An Ideal Lost in The Night Mist