What do you think?
Rate this book
They Own the Night
Dracula as you've never seen him before - Get ready for your new obsession. ~ M. A. Kuzniar (Midnight in Everwood)
The new pulse-pounding 1980’s Dracula retelling from YA Booktuber and author of the Mina and the Undead trilogy, Amy McCaw. This Stranger Things meets Buffy meets Only Murders in the Building thriller is perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy, Kathryn Foxfield and Kalynn Bayron.
Mia and Johnny have always been there for each other - particularly since their father was revealed to be a serial killer and is now serving a life sentence for murdering thirteen people.
Studying in a small university town near Edinburgh, Mia's coping mechanisms are hiding behind sarcasm, horror writing and her somewhat illegal true crime radio station, while Johnny steps up as her warm, sensitive brother and keeps her out of trouble.
But when journalist-wannabe Johnny accepts an offer he cannot refuse - the chance to interview a reclusive mega rock star who disappeared from public view three years ago, Mia finds herself stuck on campus when two male students are found dead.
As Johnny grapples with the enigmatic musician, he realises that something about the star's nocturnal habits doesn't quite add up. Meanwhile, Mia's investigation takes her to the most unexpected places - including her dad's prison...
The new pulse-pounding 1980’s Dracula retelling from YA Booktuber and author of the Mina and the Undead trilogy, Amy McCaw. This Stranger Things meets Buffy meets Only Murders in the Building thriller is perfect for fans of Cynthia Murphy, Kathryn Foxfield and Kalynn Bayron.
Mia and Johnny have always been there for each other - particularly since their father was revealed to be a serial killer and is now serving a life sentence for murdering thirteen people.
Studying in a small university town near Edinburgh, Mia's coping mechanisms are hiding behind sarcasm, horror writing and her somewhat illegal true crime radio station, while Johnny steps up as her warm, sensitive brother and keeps her out of trouble.
But when journalist-wannabe Johnny accepts an offer he cannot refuse - the chance to interview a reclusive mega rock star who disappeared from public view three years ago, Mia finds herself stuck on campus when two male students are found dead.
As Johnny grapples with the enigmatic musician, he realises that something about the star's nocturnal habits doesn't quite add up. Meanwhile, Mia's investigation takes her to the most unexpected places - including her dad's prison...
387 pages, Paperback
First published September 25, 2025
14 people are currently reading
495 people want to read
About the author
Amy McCaw
6 books286 followersAmy McCaw is a YA writer and BookTuber. She's the author of the 'Mina and the Undead' series, a YA murder mystery set in 1995 New Orleans. She also curated 'A Taste of Darkness' YA horror anthology.
Her main interests are books, movies and the macabre, and her debut novel has elements of all of these. If Amy's not at a book event or reading, she can usually be found scribbling away in her writing room, surrounded by movie memorabilia and an out-of-control signed books collection. Unsurprisingly, she's a huge Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan and has gone to conventions to meet James Marsters more times than she cares to admit.
Amy also loves travelling and has a particular affinity for America. She's visited 29 states, 13 Man Vs Food restaurants and many bookish locations, including the cities where Twilight, Interview with a Vampire and Vampire Diaries were set.
If you want to talk with Amy about books or 90s movies, you can find her on Twitter.
Her main interests are books, movies and the macabre, and her debut novel has elements of all of these. If Amy's not at a book event or reading, she can usually be found scribbling away in her writing room, surrounded by movie memorabilia and an out-of-control signed books collection. Unsurprisingly, she's a huge Buffy the Vampire Slayer fan and has gone to conventions to meet James Marsters more times than she cares to admit.
Amy also loves travelling and has a particular affinity for America. She's visited 29 states, 13 Man Vs Food restaurants and many bookish locations, including the cities where Twilight, Interview with a Vampire and Vampire Diaries were set.
If you want to talk with Amy about books or 90s movies, you can find her on Twitter.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 30, 2025
A 1980’s queer Dracula retelling? Sign me up! As always, Amy McCaw has done a brilliant job of creating nostalgia in her historical fantasies, this was littered with fun pop culture and vampire lore. Loved it!
December 13, 2025
This was EVERYTHING 👏 80s vibes, rock stars, a serial killer, gory stuff, a murder mystery, DRACULA! I devoured this 🧛♂️ it felt like Lost Boys x Dracula x Buffy (three of my obsessions) but with Amy's own signature style, infused with nostalgia, pop culture references, vampire lore and characters that feel completely real, i hope we get more in this series because the ending is left somewhat open 👀 (10 book series pls thanks)
June 30, 2025
I loved this book so much. I read most of it in one sitting on a Sunday, but it took me three days total to read which shows how much I loved it because for me that's a quick read.
I love how nostalgic this authors writing makes me feel. I'm instantly transported to the books I read as a teen due to the style and setting. I got slight Interview with a Vampire/Queen of the Damned vibes from the story which I adored as I was obsessed with those films.
It's been a long time since I read the original Dracula, but I can remember that I found it a difficult read and that I wasn't absorbed by it, but this story I followed along perfectly even with a large number of characters and a mix of then and now timelines.
I appreciated the small snippets of memos/diary entries too, it was a nice addition to build the story without being too much (I've seen other authors lean into the mixed media aspect a bit too much for me so this was a nice balance).
Admittedly I can't remember much of the original Dracula but throughout this story there were a good few moments when something I didn't expect happened which made it an exciting read for me.
Overall a fab read, I love this authors writing and I think I will always read anything she writes.
Thanks to NetGalley/Bonnier Books for the e-arc.
I love how nostalgic this authors writing makes me feel. I'm instantly transported to the books I read as a teen due to the style and setting. I got slight Interview with a Vampire/Queen of the Damned vibes from the story which I adored as I was obsessed with those films.
It's been a long time since I read the original Dracula, but I can remember that I found it a difficult read and that I wasn't absorbed by it, but this story I followed along perfectly even with a large number of characters and a mix of then and now timelines.
I appreciated the small snippets of memos/diary entries too, it was a nice addition to build the story without being too much (I've seen other authors lean into the mixed media aspect a bit too much for me so this was a nice balance).
Admittedly I can't remember much of the original Dracula but throughout this story there were a good few moments when something I didn't expect happened which made it an exciting read for me.
Overall a fab read, I love this authors writing and I think I will always read anything she writes.
Thanks to NetGalley/Bonnier Books for the e-arc.
September 21, 2025
Mia loves horror and runs a pirate true crime station whilst her brother Johnny wants to be a journalist. Both are studying in Edinburgh when Johnny gets the chance to interview the reclusive rock star, Vlad, at his isolated home but he has to keep it a secret. Back at college, young men start dying horrifically and young women are attacked and bitten, Mia and her friends investigate and stumble into a world they had no idea existed.
A modern Dracula retelling set in the 80’s, with a mysterious rock star, murderous mutilations and legends come true. It is soaked in 80’s nostalgia, the clothes, the pop culture references, the music, the movies, it is all such a vibe!
Mia, feisty and determined to find the truth. Johnny, quiet and enamoured with his new love. Vlad, effortlessly cool and intoxicating to be near. There is a dreamlike feel to many of the scenes as characters beguile and bewitch with ease.
College students are plunged into the dark underbelly of the supernatural and it is deliciously compelling. With multimedia elements throughout and the narration running in two timelines through the main characters, this is Dracula reimagined and living it up in the 80s.
A modern Dracula retelling set in the 80’s, with a mysterious rock star, murderous mutilations and legends come true. It is soaked in 80’s nostalgia, the clothes, the pop culture references, the music, the movies, it is all such a vibe!
Mia, feisty and determined to find the truth. Johnny, quiet and enamoured with his new love. Vlad, effortlessly cool and intoxicating to be near. There is a dreamlike feel to many of the scenes as characters beguile and bewitch with ease.
College students are plunged into the dark underbelly of the supernatural and it is deliciously compelling. With multimedia elements throughout and the narration running in two timelines through the main characters, this is Dracula reimagined and living it up in the 80s.
Want to read
February 1, 2025This cover is incredible!
August 13, 2025
They Own The Night is a young adult novel set in the 1980s about two siblings whose serial killer father was the main drama in their lives until they discover that vampires are real. Mia and Johnny's dad is in prison, having been revealed to be a serial killer, and they are both now at university near Edinburgh, trying to make their own way. Mia loves horror and has a true crime radio show, whereas Johnny is a budding music journalist with an invite to interview a reclusive rock star. As Mia uncovers secrets close to home and Johnny finds himself falling for the bad boy musician, they both discover that horror might be more relevant than they expected.
This is a Dracula retelling that has a good balance between being a retelling and actually having its own plot and character arcs. Having read the first book in McCaw's Mina and the Undead series previously, I was interested to see what this one would be like. The narrative is told through Mia being interviewed in the 'present' by a police detective as well as snippets from 'then' from the perspectives of both siblings. There's also bits of Mia's radio show mixed in, and this combination has a flavour of the format of Dracula without being too epistolary in nature (it is more similar to Interview with the Vampire really in terms of format).
Having both siblings' perspectives and stories makes the book feel a lot more complex and vivid, especially as Johnny's story is more ill-advised queer romance and Mia's is more group of friends become monster hunters. Sometimes plot points feel a bit forced to make the Dracula retelling and multiple narrative arcs work (the radio show, for example, is plot-relevant, but feels like it could've been a bit more). The 80s setting is fun, though it does rely a bit on modern teenagers liking The Lost Boys (saying that, but as a 2000s teenager I would've loved this book, which feels like a great follow on from 2000s children's vampire series like The Saga of Darren Shan).
As an adult who likes trashy vampire media and who particularly loved trashy vampire media as a teenager, from my perspective They Own The Night is a fun way of retelling Dracula. I like that it plays on the tension between Jonathan and Dracula in other versions of the story and doesn't feel the need to stick too close to the original narrative whilst still having a lot of the same plot beats.
This is a Dracula retelling that has a good balance between being a retelling and actually having its own plot and character arcs. Having read the first book in McCaw's Mina and the Undead series previously, I was interested to see what this one would be like. The narrative is told through Mia being interviewed in the 'present' by a police detective as well as snippets from 'then' from the perspectives of both siblings. There's also bits of Mia's radio show mixed in, and this combination has a flavour of the format of Dracula without being too epistolary in nature (it is more similar to Interview with the Vampire really in terms of format).
Having both siblings' perspectives and stories makes the book feel a lot more complex and vivid, especially as Johnny's story is more ill-advised queer romance and Mia's is more group of friends become monster hunters. Sometimes plot points feel a bit forced to make the Dracula retelling and multiple narrative arcs work (the radio show, for example, is plot-relevant, but feels like it could've been a bit more). The 80s setting is fun, though it does rely a bit on modern teenagers liking The Lost Boys (saying that, but as a 2000s teenager I would've loved this book, which feels like a great follow on from 2000s children's vampire series like The Saga of Darren Shan).
As an adult who likes trashy vampire media and who particularly loved trashy vampire media as a teenager, from my perspective They Own The Night is a fun way of retelling Dracula. I like that it plays on the tension between Jonathan and Dracula in other versions of the story and doesn't feel the need to stick too close to the original narrative whilst still having a lot of the same plot beats.
Currently reading
August 18, 2025Preordered the SECOND I saw this. I can’t wait to read this in spooky season!!
(Vamp looks like Spike… brb gonna rewatch the entirety of Buffy)
(Vamp looks like Spike… brb gonna rewatch the entirety of Buffy)
September 16, 2025
I'm so appreciative that Amy sent me a copy of her new book - They Own the Night!
I thought this was brilliant! We have vampires, true crime, a serial killer, and some romance.. what more could you want?!
I thought this was brilliant! We have vampires, true crime, a serial killer, and some romance.. what more could you want?!
January 8, 2026
Overall a decent book could have been a 5 star but the mystery part wasn’t that mysterious and not a fan of insta love so the romance between Johnny and Vlad fell flat.
Mia was a good character and the book went at a good enough page to be entertaining.
Mia was a good character and the book went at a good enough page to be entertaining.
October 8, 2025
Dracula is one of my absolute favourite classics and I love a good retelling when it is done well with imagination. I absolutely LOVED They Own The Night! It’s such a fresh take on the beloved classic and so much (dark) fun! The combination of a really well-crafted, rich narrative (with clever use of mixed media and a dual timeline), quirky, complex characters and an abundance of 80s nostalgia had me reading the book in a day as I couldn’t step away!
Setting wise, I really appreciated that the book takes place in Scotland, a country with such a wealth of spooky folklore that deserves much more recognition. And the fact that the story takes place in the 80s was like catnip for me: lots of fab nostalgic references and there’s even a playlist included at the end. I particularly enjoyed the fact that Mia broadcasts a true crime pirate radio show from her uni bedroom – podcast old style (and a clever way to add layers to the story)!
The characters leap from the page: I either wanted to be friends with them or be part of the gang that tries to take them down! I was fully invested in sparky, determined Mia, sweet, quiet Johnny with his inner fire and intriguing rockstar Vlad, who is deliciously dark and compelling but also shows glimpses of very human vulnerability. As for the relationship that develops between Johnny and Vlad – wow! I so saw a chemistry between Jonathan Harker and Count Dracula in the original so this is all kinds of great from my point of view. The chemistry is brilliantly written and I found the exploration of power imbalance and age difference sensitively handled.
And the ending – I’m desperate for a sequel! Although this is a stand-alone, the last chapters have so much potential for further vampire hunting adventures for Mia and the gang. I’m keeping everything crossed!
Setting wise, I really appreciated that the book takes place in Scotland, a country with such a wealth of spooky folklore that deserves much more recognition. And the fact that the story takes place in the 80s was like catnip for me: lots of fab nostalgic references and there’s even a playlist included at the end. I particularly enjoyed the fact that Mia broadcasts a true crime pirate radio show from her uni bedroom – podcast old style (and a clever way to add layers to the story)!
The characters leap from the page: I either wanted to be friends with them or be part of the gang that tries to take them down! I was fully invested in sparky, determined Mia, sweet, quiet Johnny with his inner fire and intriguing rockstar Vlad, who is deliciously dark and compelling but also shows glimpses of very human vulnerability. As for the relationship that develops between Johnny and Vlad – wow! I so saw a chemistry between Jonathan Harker and Count Dracula in the original so this is all kinds of great from my point of view. The chemistry is brilliantly written and I found the exploration of power imbalance and age difference sensitively handled.
And the ending – I’m desperate for a sequel! Although this is a stand-alone, the last chapters have so much potential for further vampire hunting adventures for Mia and the gang. I’m keeping everything crossed!
September 14, 2025
Dracula retelling, set in the 80s... say less....
Mia and her brother Johnny have always been close, getting through the fact that their dad was sent to prison for being a serial killer will do that.
So when Johnny gets the interview of a lifetime, but can't tell Mia about it, this causes a bit of an issue.... but it might be worse if she knew it was with Vlad Tepes... reclusive Rockstar who was her celeb crush.
Mia is left worrying when Johnny doesn't return as planned, and there are teen boys turning up dead, in the same style as her father used to use.
Can Mia figure out what is going on, and can Johnny escape Vlads spell to get back to her.
I honestly loved this, the setting was impeccable and the vibes spot on. I loved making the parallels between these characters and the ones from the original tale.
The mixed media way of telling the story always kept me wanting to keep reading to find out more and I loved the twists and turns.
Out 26 Sept so perfect timing for spooky season. Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier/ Ink Road books for the review copy, and Pride Book Tours for the spot. All opinions my own.
Mia and her brother Johnny have always been close, getting through the fact that their dad was sent to prison for being a serial killer will do that.
So when Johnny gets the interview of a lifetime, but can't tell Mia about it, this causes a bit of an issue.... but it might be worse if she knew it was with Vlad Tepes... reclusive Rockstar who was her celeb crush.
Mia is left worrying when Johnny doesn't return as planned, and there are teen boys turning up dead, in the same style as her father used to use.
Can Mia figure out what is going on, and can Johnny escape Vlads spell to get back to her.
I honestly loved this, the setting was impeccable and the vibes spot on. I loved making the parallels between these characters and the ones from the original tale.
The mixed media way of telling the story always kept me wanting to keep reading to find out more and I loved the twists and turns.
Out 26 Sept so perfect timing for spooky season. Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier/ Ink Road books for the review copy, and Pride Book Tours for the spot. All opinions my own.
September 14, 2025
4.5 stars - grateful for an advance readers copy of this book! the lead up to this book coming has been insane and the wait was totally worth it!
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and their development, particularly Mia and Johnny. I also have a heavy love for the side characters too. The mix of loved fandoms that went into this book were a perfect blend. I loved the 80s references, the spooky vibes and myth of Scotland too.
This story was constantly unfolding to keep my attention. At the start, I found it hard to keep track of the timelines going back and forward with the dual points of view too, so this took a smidge of the enjoyment out of reading for me. But overall, I really loved it!
I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and their development, particularly Mia and Johnny. I also have a heavy love for the side characters too. The mix of loved fandoms that went into this book were a perfect blend. I loved the 80s references, the spooky vibes and myth of Scotland too.
This story was constantly unfolding to keep my attention. At the start, I found it hard to keep track of the timelines going back and forward with the dual points of view too, so this took a smidge of the enjoyment out of reading for me. But overall, I really loved it!
September 19, 2025
They Own the Night is a Dracula retelling set in the 80s - think pop cultures references and neon colours alongside murderous bats and shifty boyfriends. This is a book for people who thought Mina was badass, felt sorry for Lucy and thought there was something more going on with Dracula and Johnathan.
Mia and Johnny are at university in Edinburgh, trying to settle into a life away from the crimes of their father - who was sentenced to life imprisonment for serial killings. Things start to get weird when Johnny gets the gig of a lifetime - interviewing an elusive and reclusive pop star who hasn’t been seen in years. The only catch, he has to do the interview at a castle in a remote location.
Back at university bodies start appearing on campus. Mia begins investigations for her true crime radio show, but is left with more questions than answers - especially when the evidence leads her to her father.
When the siblings paths appear to converge questions are raised - what’s really going on with the enigmatic rockstar and is he somehow connected to the mysterious campus deaths?
I loved the setting on this one - the 80s University campus backdrop made the novel vibrant and atmospheric. Especially with the Edinburgh location, as this aided the book’s eerie gothic tone. I loved the clash of the gothic classicalism of Dracula with the vibrancy of the 80s. This just made it such a unique and enjoyable retelling.
I also enjoyed the formatting - we get dual POV and dual timeline. I really liked the way we were brought through the story via the Detective interviews and how we pieced all together from multiple perspectives across ‘then’ and ‘now’. I also really enjoyed the mixed media aspects, with interviews and journal entries providing multiple sources of information to forward the overarching plot.
I also really liked the side characters - especially Lucas and Alex - and how their character arcs developed.
Overall this was a fresh reimagining of a classic - that breathed new life into well established characters. It was an entertaining contrast of boy bands and pop culture of the 80s, against the gothic nuances of Dracula. A must read for spooky season!
ARC copy provided by Bonnier Books UK & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Mia and Johnny are at university in Edinburgh, trying to settle into a life away from the crimes of their father - who was sentenced to life imprisonment for serial killings. Things start to get weird when Johnny gets the gig of a lifetime - interviewing an elusive and reclusive pop star who hasn’t been seen in years. The only catch, he has to do the interview at a castle in a remote location.
Back at university bodies start appearing on campus. Mia begins investigations for her true crime radio show, but is left with more questions than answers - especially when the evidence leads her to her father.
When the siblings paths appear to converge questions are raised - what’s really going on with the enigmatic rockstar and is he somehow connected to the mysterious campus deaths?
I loved the setting on this one - the 80s University campus backdrop made the novel vibrant and atmospheric. Especially with the Edinburgh location, as this aided the book’s eerie gothic tone. I loved the clash of the gothic classicalism of Dracula with the vibrancy of the 80s. This just made it such a unique and enjoyable retelling.
I also enjoyed the formatting - we get dual POV and dual timeline. I really liked the way we were brought through the story via the Detective interviews and how we pieced all together from multiple perspectives across ‘then’ and ‘now’. I also really enjoyed the mixed media aspects, with interviews and journal entries providing multiple sources of information to forward the overarching plot.
I also really liked the side characters - especially Lucas and Alex - and how their character arcs developed.
Overall this was a fresh reimagining of a classic - that breathed new life into well established characters. It was an entertaining contrast of boy bands and pop culture of the 80s, against the gothic nuances of Dracula. A must read for spooky season!
ARC copy provided by Bonnier Books UK & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 16, 2025
Oh my word, what a fantastic novel. It's a loose retelling of Dracula but with a queer twist and set in the 1980s. It has Stoker, Buffy and Supernatural vibes with a dash of Anne Rice. If you're a fan of vampire novels, you're definitely gonna need to read this.
October 23, 2025
Oh she did it again! Amy pulled me in from the first page and I loved this. Perfect for the season 🎃
January 20, 2026
Amy has once again knocked it out the park.
October 14, 2025
Dracula in 1980s? sure why not! 👏
September 24, 2025
Thank you to Ink Road Books for an early copy.
I love retelling, and #theyownthenight offers its own unique story arc, which keeps the brilliance of Dracula alive whilst offering a new voice to the re-imagining.
Meet Mia, a horror fan who runs her own true crime radio show. An inquisitive girl who exudes confidence to most, but really, is hiding her deep-seated emotion behind the fact her father has been imprisoned for unspeakable crimes. Her close sibling Johnny has demons of his own and can't believe his luck when a rare opportunity arrives to interview Vlad, a once famous rock star who has been off the world's grid for a while. Now summoned to the privacy of a remote castle, he has no idea of what awaits.
Back at Uni, Mia begins to fret over lack of contact with her brother, until mysterious deaths distract her into her own investigations, and this is only the beginning...
For those who have had Mina withdrawal symptoms, this will fill that void. A must-read for Dracula, Buffy, and Lost Boys fans. All tied up in an 80s pop culture bow. Bonus points for being set in Edinburgh, too!
Dark and chilling, with a side of shiver, this book is nothing short of brilliant. The writing is polished, the world immersive, and the characters well drawn. I love complex characters and found family, so it was an absolute winner for me from the get-go. A fanged kiss of perfection!
I love retelling, and #theyownthenight offers its own unique story arc, which keeps the brilliance of Dracula alive whilst offering a new voice to the re-imagining.
Meet Mia, a horror fan who runs her own true crime radio show. An inquisitive girl who exudes confidence to most, but really, is hiding her deep-seated emotion behind the fact her father has been imprisoned for unspeakable crimes. Her close sibling Johnny has demons of his own and can't believe his luck when a rare opportunity arrives to interview Vlad, a once famous rock star who has been off the world's grid for a while. Now summoned to the privacy of a remote castle, he has no idea of what awaits.
Back at Uni, Mia begins to fret over lack of contact with her brother, until mysterious deaths distract her into her own investigations, and this is only the beginning...
For those who have had Mina withdrawal symptoms, this will fill that void. A must-read for Dracula, Buffy, and Lost Boys fans. All tied up in an 80s pop culture bow. Bonus points for being set in Edinburgh, too!
Dark and chilling, with a side of shiver, this book is nothing short of brilliant. The writing is polished, the world immersive, and the characters well drawn. I love complex characters and found family, so it was an absolute winner for me from the get-go. A fanged kiss of perfection!
August 13, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for proving an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
While this book showed potential, it ultimately fell short in terms of plot development. The storyline felt predictable and lacked originality, giving the impression that it has been done before. Additionally, the characters appeared inconsistent, which made it difficult to stay engaged. Overall, while the effort is appreciated, the execution didn’t quite meet expectations.
While this book showed potential, it ultimately fell short in terms of plot development. The storyline felt predictable and lacked originality, giving the impression that it has been done before. Additionally, the characters appeared inconsistent, which made it difficult to stay engaged. Overall, while the effort is appreciated, the execution didn’t quite meet expectations.
October 5, 2025
I received a review copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
THEY OWN THE NIGHT is a really fun 1980s, murder mystery reimagining of DRACULA.
About 25% into this book, I took I brief break to read an accessible version of DRACULA because I knew I'd get more out of this book if I had a general idea of the plot being reimagined beyond just what I'd picked up from pop culture references. It was definitely the right decision, and having DRACULA so fresh in my mind meant I could really see how Amy McCaw had taken the original and put her own spin on it.
This is a very engaging tale, part horror, part murder mystery, all a blast. It doesn't shy away from the gory parts of horror - Mia in particular sees a lot of dead bodies - but doesn't try to gross you out, which I appreciated.
In addition to all the action and mystery, there is also a romantic plot between Johnny and Vlad with so much tension. Plus there are complicated family dynamics with their father and each other as the secrets pile up. I also appreciated that Mia's two friendships don't evolve into romances, putting the importance of platonic relationships on at least equal footing with the romance.
The book is told from Mia and Johnny's perspectives, though Mia's is split timeline. There's everything that happened with the vampires (and werewolves! I loved when they were introduced) and also her in the police station after the fact trying to explain as best she can without implicating anyone close to her - or spill the whole vampire thing. It was a really interesting way to frame it and adds an extra set of stakes to the plot. (Pun not intended.)
While this is a complete tale - and currently a standalone - the ending does leave it open for more adventures in this world. I do hope we get another.
THEY OWN THE NIGHT is a really fun 1980s, murder mystery reimagining of DRACULA.
About 25% into this book, I took I brief break to read an accessible version of DRACULA because I knew I'd get more out of this book if I had a general idea of the plot being reimagined beyond just what I'd picked up from pop culture references. It was definitely the right decision, and having DRACULA so fresh in my mind meant I could really see how Amy McCaw had taken the original and put her own spin on it.
This is a very engaging tale, part horror, part murder mystery, all a blast. It doesn't shy away from the gory parts of horror - Mia in particular sees a lot of dead bodies - but doesn't try to gross you out, which I appreciated.
In addition to all the action and mystery, there is also a romantic plot between Johnny and Vlad with so much tension. Plus there are complicated family dynamics with their father and each other as the secrets pile up. I also appreciated that Mia's two friendships don't evolve into romances, putting the importance of platonic relationships on at least equal footing with the romance.
The book is told from Mia and Johnny's perspectives, though Mia's is split timeline. There's everything that happened with the vampires (and werewolves! I loved when they were introduced) and also her in the police station after the fact trying to explain as best she can without implicating anyone close to her - or spill the whole vampire thing. It was a really interesting way to frame it and adds an extra set of stakes to the plot. (Pun not intended.)
While this is a complete tale - and currently a standalone - the ending does leave it open for more adventures in this world. I do hope we get another.
September 27, 2025
This gripping YA horror story follows siblings Mia and Johnny. Mia and Johnny are the children of an infamous serial killer who is currently serving life in prison for his crimes. Attempting to put the past behind them, Mia and Johnny attend university in Edinburgh. There, Johnny is offered the job of a lifetime, to interview Vlad Tepez, one of the most famous rock stars in the world. Tepez mysteriously vanished from public life, and if Johnny can find out why, it could make his career, but Vlad isn’t everything he seems. When two students turn up dead at the university, Mia begins to investigate; however, her investigation goes in a direction she absolutely did not expect.
This was such a compelling read. It was fast-paced, engaging, and I absolutely raced through this one. I really enjoyed McCaw’s writing style; it was atmospheric, and it really brought the 1980s to life. I loved the mixed media format of this book – the story features diary entries, interviews, newspaper clippings, and transcripts from a radio show. I thought this really added another dimension to the story, and it was such a fun way to see the story unfold.
I thought the characters were terrific. Mia is strong and determined, but also struggling with the knowledge of what her Dad did. I really liked Johnny too, who becomes entangled in a romance that isn’t what he expects. There is lots of character development for both protagonists, and both POVs were really fascinating. I loved the 80s vampires and it was very reminiscent of The Lost Boys and Lestat, which I absolutely adored. If you’re a vampire fan or you’re looking for a fresh take on the Dracula story, They Own the Night is definitely a book you don’t want to miss – this one should absolutely be on your TBR for spooky season.
This was such a compelling read. It was fast-paced, engaging, and I absolutely raced through this one. I really enjoyed McCaw’s writing style; it was atmospheric, and it really brought the 1980s to life. I loved the mixed media format of this book – the story features diary entries, interviews, newspaper clippings, and transcripts from a radio show. I thought this really added another dimension to the story, and it was such a fun way to see the story unfold.
I thought the characters were terrific. Mia is strong and determined, but also struggling with the knowledge of what her Dad did. I really liked Johnny too, who becomes entangled in a romance that isn’t what he expects. There is lots of character development for both protagonists, and both POVs were really fascinating. I loved the 80s vampires and it was very reminiscent of The Lost Boys and Lestat, which I absolutely adored. If you’re a vampire fan or you’re looking for a fresh take on the Dracula story, They Own the Night is definitely a book you don’t want to miss – this one should absolutely be on your TBR for spooky season.
July 23, 2025
I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
I love Dracula and this was an interesting retelling from a true crime lens. This is in a modern setting but it’s very clear where the original has influenced this book and the author has made parallels. I thought the author had blended in their references and influences beautifully. There’s a clear love for the original book here, but also the deep affection for pre-2000 horror. I found the author had merged these things together really well giving us a book that was clear in its influences but also feeling new and unique.
We follow two main characters, Johnny and Mia. Johnny who is taken in by the vampires, seeing the romantic side, and Mia, the feisty investigator, unwilling to be brainwashed and challenging what she sees. Her investigation into events on her university campus throw new light on events from her past and force her to reexamine her relationships in light of what she has learned.
This was my second book from this author and definitely my favourite of theirs. I thought it was well constructed. The book is told through police interviews, journals and recollections as well as interspersed radio snippets. I didn’t think the radio stuff was explored thoroughly enough and it didn’t really feel like it added anything, but it didn’t detract from the book either. I would have just preferred it to have felt a bit more integral to the story.
A good vampire novel, nostalgic and refreshing at the same time.
I love Dracula and this was an interesting retelling from a true crime lens. This is in a modern setting but it’s very clear where the original has influenced this book and the author has made parallels. I thought the author had blended in their references and influences beautifully. There’s a clear love for the original book here, but also the deep affection for pre-2000 horror. I found the author had merged these things together really well giving us a book that was clear in its influences but also feeling new and unique.
We follow two main characters, Johnny and Mia. Johnny who is taken in by the vampires, seeing the romantic side, and Mia, the feisty investigator, unwilling to be brainwashed and challenging what she sees. Her investigation into events on her university campus throw new light on events from her past and force her to reexamine her relationships in light of what she has learned.
This was my second book from this author and definitely my favourite of theirs. I thought it was well constructed. The book is told through police interviews, journals and recollections as well as interspersed radio snippets. I didn’t think the radio stuff was explored thoroughly enough and it didn’t really feel like it added anything, but it didn’t detract from the book either. I would have just preferred it to have felt a bit more integral to the story.
A good vampire novel, nostalgic and refreshing at the same time.
October 15, 2025
Honestly the first half of this book was so good, but around the halfway mark the quality seemed to dip, and then the last quarter was just poor. The dialogue was clunky and amateur, and the twists were just boring
It bothered me to no end that Bram Stoker's Dracula exists in this universe. This is a retelling of Dracula, with several things taken directly from the book and transposed into modern day, ie going to Vlad's estate and being essentially trapped, the ship murders etc. The main vampire being called Vlad Tepez - just giving him a normal Scottish or even English name would've made more sense.
Vlad is about 250 years old and keeps getting called ancient. Sorry but in terms of immortal beings, 250 years is nothing
The premise is great, but the execution just wasn't it. The End was too easy and the epilogue unnecessary
Also, this book was not spooky in the slightest. I get it's YA but turn up the atmosphere and the tension - I had none
If you want to read a fantastic book about 1980s Dracula, try 'Salem's Lot
It bothered me to no end that Bram Stoker's Dracula exists in this universe. This is a retelling of Dracula, with several things taken directly from the book and transposed into modern day, ie going to Vlad's estate and being essentially trapped, the ship murders etc. The main vampire being called Vlad Tepez - just giving him a normal Scottish or even English name would've made more sense.
Vlad is about 250 years old and keeps getting called ancient. Sorry but in terms of immortal beings, 250 years is nothing
The premise is great, but the execution just wasn't it. The End was too easy and the epilogue unnecessary
Also, this book was not spooky in the slightest. I get it's YA but turn up the atmosphere and the tension - I had none
If you want to read a fantastic book about 1980s Dracula, try 'Salem's Lot
November 15, 2025
They own the night was such a fun read for spooky season. It’s a Dracula retelling set in the 80s that reminds me of all my favourite supernatural tv shows rolled into one. It has amazing music references and feels very nostalgic.
We follow three POVs Mia current time following an incident we don’t yet know about and past Mia and her brother Johnathan. I loved the foreshadowing element and knowing something was going to happen and having to piece it together as the story went on.
The story was faced paced with short chapters and mixed media including podcasts and interviews.
The story follows Mia as she investigates the murder of college boys around campus and a possible supernatural element as well as Johnathan as he Jets of to interview a famous rockstar Vlad whose band is making a comeback. Will secrets, love interests and monsters come between the siblings???
I really enjoyed the relationships in this story and the last 25% was full of twists and turns.
Overall a really fun time 3.5⭐️
We follow three POVs Mia current time following an incident we don’t yet know about and past Mia and her brother Johnathan. I loved the foreshadowing element and knowing something was going to happen and having to piece it together as the story went on.
The story was faced paced with short chapters and mixed media including podcasts and interviews.
The story follows Mia as she investigates the murder of college boys around campus and a possible supernatural element as well as Johnathan as he Jets of to interview a famous rockstar Vlad whose band is making a comeback. Will secrets, love interests and monsters come between the siblings???
I really enjoyed the relationships in this story and the last 25% was full of twists and turns.
Overall a really fun time 3.5⭐️
Read
September 10, 2025This book is what you get if you mix The Lost Boys with Buffy but add in that random Thora Birch film The Hole.
In true McCaw style this book was packed with retro nostalgia and it was amazing, it was also jam packed with things happening but sometimes it felt too much and I got confused as to what was going on at times and had to go back and re read parts to try and make sense of some plot points. But the overall story is so fun and you do get swept away within the chapters, I liked where we were took out of the story and was brought into the ‘current’ timeline in the police station. Also loved the Scottish lingo.
Unlike Mina (who I loved) I didn’t like Mia as a FMC I found her whole attitude quite standoffish and she only liked people who could do things for her rather than being actual friends.
Also justice for Luke.
E-Arc provided by the Author and publishers Bonnier Books UK via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
In true McCaw style this book was packed with retro nostalgia and it was amazing, it was also jam packed with things happening but sometimes it felt too much and I got confused as to what was going on at times and had to go back and re read parts to try and make sense of some plot points. But the overall story is so fun and you do get swept away within the chapters, I liked where we were took out of the story and was brought into the ‘current’ timeline in the police station. Also loved the Scottish lingo.
Unlike Mina (who I loved) I didn’t like Mia as a FMC I found her whole attitude quite standoffish and she only liked people who could do things for her rather than being actual friends.
Also justice for Luke.
E-Arc provided by the Author and publishers Bonnier Books UK via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 3, 2025
This book had me so excited when it was announced. A gay Dracula retelling is exactly my sort of thing. And it really lived up to my excitement. I absolutely loved it. It had everything I was hoping for.
You could really see how much the author was inspired by other vampire media. This book read like it was in conversation with stuff like Buffy and Interview With a Vampire. Amy McCaw plays with tropes and ideas thrown out by the vampire genre and adds her own voice to the mix.
I also like the true crime angle that McCaw brought to the book, having Mia’s radio show being a big feature of the book. The serial killer stuff from Mia’s father also brought an interesting new angle to the idea of vampires and hunters.
If you love Dracula and want to see it played out in an eighties horror novel, this book is for you.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Cross-posted to thewhisperingofthepages.co.uk
You could really see how much the author was inspired by other vampire media. This book read like it was in conversation with stuff like Buffy and Interview With a Vampire. Amy McCaw plays with tropes and ideas thrown out by the vampire genre and adds her own voice to the mix.
I also like the true crime angle that McCaw brought to the book, having Mia’s radio show being a big feature of the book. The serial killer stuff from Mia’s father also brought an interesting new angle to the idea of vampires and hunters.
If you love Dracula and want to see it played out in an eighties horror novel, this book is for you.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Cross-posted to thewhisperingofthepages.co.uk
December 28, 2025
An LGBT, 80s retelling of Dracula set among the Gothic streets of Edingburgh, where the 'Dracula' in question is the leader of a vampire-themed rock group? Sign me up!
If you know the story of Dracula fairly well, it's fun to see the little references (there are a lot of fun horror easter eggs in general, courtesy of Mia and Vlad 😉) and what characters have an equivalent (now, considering the character he was based on, I *know* it probably wasn't going to end well but still, #justiceforluke 😭). But even if you've never consumed (😉) any Dracula media at all, there's plenty to enjoy,
I don't know whether this is meant to remain a stand alone or if it's the beginning of a new series, but the story ends in a way that certainly supports one (NOT a cliffhanger, I promise!) and I certainly wouldn't mind spending more time with these characters.
If you know the story of Dracula fairly well, it's fun to see the little references (there are a lot of fun horror easter eggs in general, courtesy of Mia and Vlad 😉) and what characters have an equivalent (now, considering the character he was based on, I *know* it probably wasn't going to end well but still, #justiceforluke 😭). But even if you've never consumed (😉) any Dracula media at all, there's plenty to enjoy,
I don't know whether this is meant to remain a stand alone or if it's the beginning of a new series, but the story ends in a way that certainly supports one (NOT a cliffhanger, I promise!) and I certainly wouldn't mind spending more time with these characters.
January 11, 2026
🧛 They Own The Night by Amy McCaw🧛
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 📚
Page count: 374
Comps: Dracula
Rating: ✨✨✨✨
Thoughts: if you’re a fan the classic Dracula, you need to check this book out! They Own The Night takes the classic novel and reVAMPS it in an 80s setting. The book features rock bands, vampires, toxic relationships, werewolves, secret radio broadcasts, true crime elements, and so much more. I absolutely LOVED the 80s setting along with the novel taking place around Halloween time. If you love a horror story told through police interviews, diary entries, and alternating POVs, this book is for you!
McCaw is the author of Mina and The Undead series as well in case you need another series to sink your fangs into 😉
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 📚
Page count: 374
Comps: Dracula
Rating: ✨✨✨✨
Thoughts: if you’re a fan the classic Dracula, you need to check this book out! They Own The Night takes the classic novel and reVAMPS it in an 80s setting. The book features rock bands, vampires, toxic relationships, werewolves, secret radio broadcasts, true crime elements, and so much more. I absolutely LOVED the 80s setting along with the novel taking place around Halloween time. If you love a horror story told through police interviews, diary entries, and alternating POVs, this book is for you!
McCaw is the author of Mina and The Undead series as well in case you need another series to sink your fangs into 😉
September 17, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It had characters I really connected with and loved. Although Amy, why did you do it?! 😫The plot was really engaging, and I couldn't put it down. It had quite a few twists that I didn't see coming, and I loved how it was told. From Mia and Johnny's perspectives, we got to see both sides of the story. I loved how Mias side was split between Now and Then and got to see how it unfolded for her, whilst Johnny's side was about his experience with Vlad. It really came together nicely, and I enjoyed the last twist at the end. I've always loved Amy's work, and this was no different.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews