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Vampire Hunters: An Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts
"Vampire Hunters surprised and delighted me. Beautifully researched, twisty and smart, Uncle Charles's preserved chronicles of vampire hunters, saints, outlaws, poseurs (and Poe!) span time from the siege of Troy to the clandestine horrors of present-day America. Clippings, drawings, and photos flesh out a panoply of a 16th-century German baron endures horrors on behalf of the Holy Roman Empire; Jews protect Ireland in the time of the Cossacks; a vampire at Cape Canaveral longs for space. Make no mis-stake; this book is filled with Tales of the Unexpected-ly amazing. Recommended 100%!"
-Nancy Holder, Lifetime Achievement Award winner, the Horror Writers Association
Vampires stalk us from the shadows. They’ve been feeding on blood, our very life force, since before words were pressed into clay. But we are not unprotected. For as long as vampires have hunted us, there have been those who hunt them. This is a record, fragments of journals, letters and transcripts, collected to chronicle how vampires can be identified, how they are evolving, slaying strategies, and the threat they pose to humanity.
From Agamemnon to Edgar Allan Poe, Cape Canaveral to Kiribati, this Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts explains the appetites, habits and horrors of these creatures of the night. Testimonials have been gathered, organized, and passed on in a single book throughout history.
With stories from Gwendolyn Kiste and A.C. Wise, as well as LCW Allingham, George K. Angelou, Juno Crew, William J. Donahue, River Eno, Henry Herz, Mina Humiston, D.C. Kugtima, Camellia Landman, Carter Lappin, Caolán Mac an Aircinn, Hope Madden, TT Madden, Lee Meeder, A.R.C Mitra, Bill Mulligan, Nico Martinez Nocito, Toni Owen-Blue, Dale Parnell, and Johan Robertsson.
These incomplete records are now released to illuminate the darkness where evil thrives.
-Nancy Holder, Lifetime Achievement Award winner, the Horror Writers Association
Vampires stalk us from the shadows. They’ve been feeding on blood, our very life force, since before words were pressed into clay. But we are not unprotected. For as long as vampires have hunted us, there have been those who hunt them. This is a record, fragments of journals, letters and transcripts, collected to chronicle how vampires can be identified, how they are evolving, slaying strategies, and the threat they pose to humanity.
From Agamemnon to Edgar Allan Poe, Cape Canaveral to Kiribati, this Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts explains the appetites, habits and horrors of these creatures of the night. Testimonials have been gathered, organized, and passed on in a single book throughout history.
With stories from Gwendolyn Kiste and A.C. Wise, as well as LCW Allingham, George K. Angelou, Juno Crew, William J. Donahue, River Eno, Henry Herz, Mina Humiston, D.C. Kugtima, Camellia Landman, Carter Lappin, Caolán Mac an Aircinn, Hope Madden, TT Madden, Lee Meeder, A.R.C Mitra, Bill Mulligan, Nico Martinez Nocito, Toni Owen-Blue, Dale Parnell, and Johan Robertsson.
These incomplete records are now released to illuminate the darkness where evil thrives.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 22, 2025
3 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
L.C.W. Allingham
17 books14 followersLCW Allingham is a Philadelphia area author, artist, and editor. Her short fiction has appeared in numerous anthologies. She is the co-founder and executive editor of the indie press, Speculation Publications. Her horror novella MUSE is coming out in April 2024, and her debut historical novel, LADY, will be out in September, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 25, 2025
“Vampire Hunters: A Complete Record of Personal Account”
This is one of the best collections of vampire short stories I’ve had the pleasure of reading. Ever since I fell in love with Dracula, I’ve been drawn to the epistolary format—and this book brilliantly embraces that same narrative style. Each entry feels like a lost document, journal, or testimony, which adds depth and authenticity to the overall atmosphere.
The vampires in these stories are exactly what they should be—dark, bloodthirsty, and burdened by a tragic past. I especially appreciate when vampire tales align with the anthropological view of the vampire as a cultural symbol of fear, and this collection captures that idea perfectly. These are not romanticized monsters, but manifestations of collective anxiety, grief, and guilt.
I’m genuinely excited to see this book in physical form—it has the potential to be visually striking, especially given its format. I’ll definitely be getting a copy for my personal library once it’s out.
Highly recommended for fans of classic horror, epistolary storytelling, and anyone who prefers their vampires terrifying...
I received a digital copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is one of the best collections of vampire short stories I’ve had the pleasure of reading. Ever since I fell in love with Dracula, I’ve been drawn to the epistolary format—and this book brilliantly embraces that same narrative style. Each entry feels like a lost document, journal, or testimony, which adds depth and authenticity to the overall atmosphere.
The vampires in these stories are exactly what they should be—dark, bloodthirsty, and burdened by a tragic past. I especially appreciate when vampire tales align with the anthropological view of the vampire as a cultural symbol of fear, and this collection captures that idea perfectly. These are not romanticized monsters, but manifestations of collective anxiety, grief, and guilt.
I’m genuinely excited to see this book in physical form—it has the potential to be visually striking, especially given its format. I’ll definitely be getting a copy for my personal library once it’s out.
Highly recommended for fans of classic horror, epistolary storytelling, and anyone who prefers their vampires terrifying...
I received a digital copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2025
Vampire Hunters is unlike anything I’ve ever read. It is a blood-soaked treasure trove of style and substance—a literary dossier of dread. It’s as if World War Z met The Historian in a candlelit crypt. Whether you’re a die-hard vampire fiction fan or just craving something fresh (and fanged), this anthology is a must-sink-your-teeth-into read.
July 3, 2025
Finally, a found footage/document-styled anthology about vampires (and those that hunt them).
There is SO much variety here in the style and setting of stories. Everything from a WW1-era vampire story ("Attrition") to a noir-like tale with a psychic vampire ("Sweet Sister") to a 60s set story tinged with some snarky humor ("Cape Canaveral"). Not every story was a winner, but a few really stood out for me:
"Sick" by A.C. Wise
This is probably the only story in this collection to warrant that trigger warning at the beginning of the anthology. It's very graphic, very surreal; a story where a vampire hunter is just as bad as the vampires themselves. A very strong 90s vibe to it, like something Poppy Z Brite would write.
"Bad Blood" by TT Madden
Once again, featuring morally ambiguous vampire hunters, AND some truly nightmarish descriptions of vampires. Makes full use of various found footage tropes (diary entries, audio recording, video footage, etc), and would actually make for an amazing audiobook adaptation. Plus, always good to have a teen vampire hunter involved.
"Party Time At 413 Dallyn Road" by William J. Donahue
Features a former soldier as an assassin for hire, one who finds himself with a very strange new job.
The description of the vampire in that basement was so good, and has a good downer type ending.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.
There is SO much variety here in the style and setting of stories. Everything from a WW1-era vampire story ("Attrition") to a noir-like tale with a psychic vampire ("Sweet Sister") to a 60s set story tinged with some snarky humor ("Cape Canaveral"). Not every story was a winner, but a few really stood out for me:
"Sick" by A.C. Wise
This is probably the only story in this collection to warrant that trigger warning at the beginning of the anthology. It's very graphic, very surreal; a story where a vampire hunter is just as bad as the vampires themselves. A very strong 90s vibe to it, like something Poppy Z Brite would write.
"Bad Blood" by TT Madden
Once again, featuring morally ambiguous vampire hunters, AND some truly nightmarish descriptions of vampires. Makes full use of various found footage tropes (diary entries, audio recording, video footage, etc), and would actually make for an amazing audiobook adaptation. Plus, always good to have a teen vampire hunter involved.
"Party Time At 413 Dallyn Road" by William J. Donahue
Features a former soldier as an assassin for hire, one who finds himself with a very strange new job.
The description of the vampire in that basement was so good, and has a good downer type ending.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book.
July 22, 2025
I would like to thank NetGalley for my ARC, and for L.C.W. Allingham's social media interactions via Instagram.
Anthologies/short stories are typically not my favorite thing to read, however, Vampire Hunters was compiled in a way that made me feel as if I were reading a family's in-depth genealogy and history of time. My overall thought on this book is that I loved the concept. Each section started out with a letter from an individual that spanned from the earliest centuries and up through the year 2002. Post-letter, are various diary/journal entries that detail a family legacy of vampire hunting. For the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed them, but because they are all written by various authors, I thought the best way to do this review is by each story in order to give each author their credit when due, and for those that simply didn't seem to work, for me, but might for others.
The Strix
Old world gods and strix (vampires) that is told in short notices upon papyrus. I enjoyed this story for its historical setting, and for the commitment to friendship, and pledge to help humanity be purged of strix.
The Sherwood Papers
A vampiric adaptation take on Robin Hood. I loved the quote, "...(A) horror shared is a not a horror halved..."
Saint Orianne
Great for fans of Knights Templar.
The Appropriated Journal of Baron Von Herberstein
This story concluded with a great cliff-hanger. I wanted to continue reading more.
Blood Stains True
Transgender vampire. Redemption. Regret. Ravenous.
From the Diary of Istvan Rakoczi...
Didn't connect with this story at all.
A Drink of Death
Didn't connect with this story at all.
Be Careful What You Wish For
Vampiric adaptation to The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The character Brom read very much like he was inspired by Gaston from Beauty and the Beast. It's been many years since I have read TLoSH, so I don't recall if he was written that way originally. (In that case, I redact my statement about Gaston due to publication dates.) I loved this one, but wished there was more to it. Honestly feel like this has extreme potential to be written as a novella, or a full length novel.
The Death of a Raven
For fans of Edgar Allan Poe (my favorite writer of all time). I was hesitant at first with Poe and vampires, it seemed like a strange blend, but it morbidly worked out! I loved the line, "There is nothing human about Poe's condition." I truly wanted the story to continue further. The ending read as if there was something just out of reach...but what was it? Poe? Something else?
No Mirrors
A true southern gothic tale of horror.
Bloodthirsty
Did not connect at all.
The White Hunger
I loved the line, "The learned men of the church are wrong. Hell is not a place of fire." Made me think of Game of Thrones white walkers but make them Russian vampires.
All the Devils at Once
Perfect for Dracula/Van Helsing fans. I loved the line, "We know the risks. In the evening gloom, we might meet monsters, and we might meet men, and either way, we know we're in danger."
Attrition
For fans of war/vampires/history. Despite my dislike of wars, I actually was surprised that I enjoyed this one. I appreciated this story, and the way it was detailed.
Double Shadows and Breaths not Taken
In the 27th August 1928 section, the second paragraph, the second and third sentences just read redundantly.
Part 3 introduction was the best one in the book. It grabbed the reader's attention and didn't let go.
I wanted more.
Sweet Sister
I loved this one simply for the fact this was about an emotional vampire. There's just not enough literature about vampires like this. Authors tend to focus on the sanguinarian vampires. I guess because blood sells? Ah-ah-ah!
Cape Canaveral
This could have been better had the vampire scene extended. I was into it until then, and then the story just plummeted. If the story was added upon, I would like this one more, otherwise I would have scrapped it entirely.
Sick
A morbid and grotesque, unique vampire tale. I loved all of its wretched glory.
Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road
A brother's undying love for his sister. I loved this quote, "Everyone's story needs telling, no matter how insane it sounds. Perhaps the batshit stories deserve to be told more than any others, especially when they're true."
Bad Blood
I had to google Near Dark (2021). It is a movie. And now I must watch this! This seemed to be more science fiction, and didn't seem to quite fit within the larger theme of this anthology.
Part 4
Page 160, sixth bubble- typo. why<--->while
Recognized the Vampa Museum reference from another book I am currently reviewing.
This was all told via text. I would have blocked the original texter. All that to say, I wasn't a fan of this one.
Birds & Beast
Page 167, September 6 about 1/2 way down "I" should be capitalized. I enjoyed this quote, "But you're only a victim, until you victimize somebody else. Then you're just a dick." Overall didn't connect with this one.
Nights in Kiribati
I neither loved nor hated this one. I genuinely appreciated its story and how it connects current political decision makings, with a vampiric twist-of course. It is because of this that this story is the one in the entire anthology that stands out the most to me.
Anthologies/short stories are typically not my favorite thing to read, however, Vampire Hunters was compiled in a way that made me feel as if I were reading a family's in-depth genealogy and history of time. My overall thought on this book is that I loved the concept. Each section started out with a letter from an individual that spanned from the earliest centuries and up through the year 2002. Post-letter, are various diary/journal entries that detail a family legacy of vampire hunting. For the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed them, but because they are all written by various authors, I thought the best way to do this review is by each story in order to give each author their credit when due, and for those that simply didn't seem to work, for me, but might for others.
The Strix
Old world gods and strix (vampires) that is told in short notices upon papyrus. I enjoyed this story for its historical setting, and for the commitment to friendship, and pledge to help humanity be purged of strix.
The Sherwood Papers
A vampiric adaptation take on Robin Hood. I loved the quote, "...(A) horror shared is a not a horror halved..."
Saint Orianne
Great for fans of Knights Templar.
The Appropriated Journal of Baron Von Herberstein
This story concluded with a great cliff-hanger. I wanted to continue reading more.
Blood Stains True
Transgender vampire. Redemption. Regret. Ravenous.
From the Diary of Istvan Rakoczi...
Didn't connect with this story at all.
A Drink of Death
Didn't connect with this story at all.
Be Careful What You Wish For
Vampiric adaptation to The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. The character Brom read very much like he was inspired by Gaston from Beauty and the Beast. It's been many years since I have read TLoSH, so I don't recall if he was written that way originally. (In that case, I redact my statement about Gaston due to publication dates.) I loved this one, but wished there was more to it. Honestly feel like this has extreme potential to be written as a novella, or a full length novel.
The Death of a Raven
For fans of Edgar Allan Poe (my favorite writer of all time). I was hesitant at first with Poe and vampires, it seemed like a strange blend, but it morbidly worked out! I loved the line, "There is nothing human about Poe's condition." I truly wanted the story to continue further. The ending read as if there was something just out of reach...but what was it? Poe? Something else?
No Mirrors
A true southern gothic tale of horror.
Bloodthirsty
Did not connect at all.
The White Hunger
I loved the line, "The learned men of the church are wrong. Hell is not a place of fire." Made me think of Game of Thrones white walkers but make them Russian vampires.
All the Devils at Once
Perfect for Dracula/Van Helsing fans. I loved the line, "We know the risks. In the evening gloom, we might meet monsters, and we might meet men, and either way, we know we're in danger."
Attrition
For fans of war/vampires/history. Despite my dislike of wars, I actually was surprised that I enjoyed this one. I appreciated this story, and the way it was detailed.
Double Shadows and Breaths not Taken
In the 27th August 1928 section, the second paragraph, the second and third sentences just read redundantly.
Part 3 introduction was the best one in the book. It grabbed the reader's attention and didn't let go.
I wanted more.
Sweet Sister
I loved this one simply for the fact this was about an emotional vampire. There's just not enough literature about vampires like this. Authors tend to focus on the sanguinarian vampires. I guess because blood sells? Ah-ah-ah!
Cape Canaveral
This could have been better had the vampire scene extended. I was into it until then, and then the story just plummeted. If the story was added upon, I would like this one more, otherwise I would have scrapped it entirely.
Sick
A morbid and grotesque, unique vampire tale. I loved all of its wretched glory.
Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road
A brother's undying love for his sister. I loved this quote, "Everyone's story needs telling, no matter how insane it sounds. Perhaps the batshit stories deserve to be told more than any others, especially when they're true."
Bad Blood
I had to google Near Dark (2021). It is a movie. And now I must watch this! This seemed to be more science fiction, and didn't seem to quite fit within the larger theme of this anthology.
Part 4
Page 160, sixth bubble- typo. why<--->while
Recognized the Vampa Museum reference from another book I am currently reviewing.
This was all told via text. I would have blocked the original texter. All that to say, I wasn't a fan of this one.
Birds & Beast
Page 167, September 6 about 1/2 way down "I" should be capitalized. I enjoyed this quote, "But you're only a victim, until you victimize somebody else. Then you're just a dick." Overall didn't connect with this one.
Nights in Kiribati
I neither loved nor hated this one. I genuinely appreciated its story and how it connects current political decision makings, with a vampiric twist-of course. It is because of this that this story is the one in the entire anthology that stands out the most to me.
July 23, 2025
As someone already familiar with Speculation Publication’s anthologies, I had high hopes for Vampire Hunters: An Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts—but even with those expectations, this collection blew me away. Vampire hunters are some of my favorite figures in fiction, and this anthology pays them the respect and mythic depth they deserve.
Structured in a documentary-style format, with diary entries, letters, and personal reports, each story unfolds like a true historical artifact. Despite being written by different authors, the entries are arranged chronologically and share a haunting cohesion. The vampires—whether called stix, demons, beasts, or something else—feel both terrifying and strangely ancient, and the diversity in how they are portrayed adds rich texture to the overarching narrative.
What struck me most was the setting detail. Whether in Babylon or Sherwood Forest, the atmosphere is vivid, transporting the reader through time and space while maintaining a chilling tone. It feels like historical fiction infused with supernatural dread—and it works flawlessly.
Every story made me shiver, and that’s rare for an anthology. Vampire Hunters is easily the best vampire-themed collection I’ve ever read. If you love folklore, dark fiction, or anything vampire-related, this is an absolute must-read.
Very highly recommended.
Structured in a documentary-style format, with diary entries, letters, and personal reports, each story unfolds like a true historical artifact. Despite being written by different authors, the entries are arranged chronologically and share a haunting cohesion. The vampires—whether called stix, demons, beasts, or something else—feel both terrifying and strangely ancient, and the diversity in how they are portrayed adds rich texture to the overarching narrative.
What struck me most was the setting detail. Whether in Babylon or Sherwood Forest, the atmosphere is vivid, transporting the reader through time and space while maintaining a chilling tone. It feels like historical fiction infused with supernatural dread—and it works flawlessly.
Every story made me shiver, and that’s rare for an anthology. Vampire Hunters is easily the best vampire-themed collection I’ve ever read. If you love folklore, dark fiction, or anything vampire-related, this is an absolute must-read.
Very highly recommended.
July 26, 2025
When I first started this book, I was a bit worried about the format. Many people LOVE the epistolary format, but it’s not my favorite. In addition, I’m not a huge historical fiction fan and feel a little lost or disconnected the further back things go. However, very quickly that worry was dissolved. The format is done well, with some pictures thrown in and a very clear break between entry within one writer and between the writers themselves.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how grim it is. I’ve read a few ‘dark’ books or creature books that shy from being too gory, but this is vampires - you have to give us the harsh reality. There’s also a vast variety of stories, both in time and location. My favorites were Saint Orianne, A Drink of Death, No Mirrors (Angel of Death), All the Devils at Once, and Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road (I was SO glad we got to see someone through the change from human to vampire). The last entry set in the year 2025 was also a favorite, bringing the collection all the way to present day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Speculation Publications for the advance review copy.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is how grim it is. I’ve read a few ‘dark’ books or creature books that shy from being too gory, but this is vampires - you have to give us the harsh reality. There’s also a vast variety of stories, both in time and location. My favorites were Saint Orianne, A Drink of Death, No Mirrors (Angel of Death), All the Devils at Once, and Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road (I was SO glad we got to see someone through the change from human to vampire). The last entry set in the year 2025 was also a favorite, bringing the collection all the way to present day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Speculation Publications for the advance review copy.
July 22, 2025
I received an advanced copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review … and now I’m considering buying copies for my friends. I need someone to gush about this with.
This anthology is an epistolary collection of accounts from vampire hunters throughout the ages. There are some truly unique stories in here, taking place in times and locations I never thought of vampire stories taking place. The first story takes place during the Trojan War, and I was absolutely hooked from that point on.
Like all anthologies, some stories are stronger than others; but even when I didn’t care for a setting or narrator, it still felt worth reading. Speculation Publications should be very proud of this anthology.
This anthology is an epistolary collection of accounts from vampire hunters throughout the ages. There are some truly unique stories in here, taking place in times and locations I never thought of vampire stories taking place. The first story takes place during the Trojan War, and I was absolutely hooked from that point on.
Like all anthologies, some stories are stronger than others; but even when I didn’t care for a setting or narrator, it still felt worth reading. Speculation Publications should be very proud of this anthology.
July 23, 2025
Vampire Hunters combines several things that I love - found fiction, creepy atmosphere, history, and monstrous vampires. This collection is dark, gripping, and genuinely scary. Beginning in ancient Greece and continuing to the modern day, these twenty-two tales offer a rich variety of vampire lore told through a collection of letters and diary entries compiled over the centuries.
Favourites include: Strix by George K. Angelou, The Sherwood Papers by Dale Parnell, Be Careful What You Wish for by Henry Herz, All the Devils at Once by Gwendolyn Kiste
Full review here: https://www.blog.melodyemcintyre.com/...
Favourites include: Strix by George K. Angelou, The Sherwood Papers by Dale Parnell, Be Careful What You Wish for by Henry Herz, All the Devils at Once by Gwendolyn Kiste
Full review here: https://www.blog.melodyemcintyre.com/...
October 31, 2025
Great collection!
September 3, 2025
*arc review*
so much fun!! i read this a couple months ago and reread again in even just the time allotted to me by netgalley. it felt like a bunch of besties got together to share vampire short stories in the best way possible
thank you netgalley and publishers
so much fun!! i read this a couple months ago and reread again in even just the time allotted to me by netgalley. it felt like a bunch of besties got together to share vampire short stories in the best way possible
thank you netgalley and publishers
August 11, 2025
This is, without doubt, one of the best short story anthologies I've ever read!
I don't say that lightly, and I certainly don't say it because I am lucky enough to be featured in this collection (I really don't see the point in lying on a book review).
I think part of what makes this book so special is it's difference. This is not just a collection of horror stories, themed or otherwise, that has been bound together as individual pieces. Nor is it a book of stories from one specific universe or about a select group of main characters.
Rather, this feels much more like an archive of factual records that has been brought together, a scrap-book of diaries, letters and drawings that have been painstakingly researched and verified for the purpose of recording the information they possess.
The book reads like non-fiction - it has an authority to it and a meta-like quality that genuinely had me flicking back and forth, re-reading sections, studying the art and photographs that had been 'clipped' to the pages, cross-checking dates of the entries and the locations.
The book blurred the lines of whether I was a reader or a student. If the stories were mere entertainment or a lost part of our actual reality.
The second reason I rate this book so highly is the quality of the writing.
With almost all anthologies there are some stories that you like more than others - whether it's down to the story, the execution or the reader's own tastes, some stories simply won't connect with you the way that others do, and inevitably you'll have your favourites in the book.
With this book I adored every single story.
Some are longer than others, some present more of a classic "short story" structure, whilst others offer a glimpse, a few short diary entries that suggest far more than they actually tell you. There is a reason that this book is subtitled "an incomplete record of personal accounts", as that is just what they are. Some people might struggle with that, but I loved it. It freed the authors to get right down to the crux of the matter. We don't need the backstory and the origin of the characters. We don't need the classic 'beginning, middle and end' of every entry - that's not how diarys and letters work.
And so instead of simply going from short story to short story that bear little relevance to each other, what you have here is an alternative history of the world, records that span thousands of years from across the globe that suggest something else, something dark, has been going on that most of us are unaware of.
Every writer gives us something new, every hunter adds a new perspective, and every piece is so wonderfully written and smart and well researched that it never jarred me out of place. I demolished this book in a day and a half, and I already want to go back and re-read it.
I am so very proud and humbled to be a part of this book, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
It is brave and unique and inspired.
I don't say that lightly, and I certainly don't say it because I am lucky enough to be featured in this collection (I really don't see the point in lying on a book review).
I think part of what makes this book so special is it's difference. This is not just a collection of horror stories, themed or otherwise, that has been bound together as individual pieces. Nor is it a book of stories from one specific universe or about a select group of main characters.
Rather, this feels much more like an archive of factual records that has been brought together, a scrap-book of diaries, letters and drawings that have been painstakingly researched and verified for the purpose of recording the information they possess.
The book reads like non-fiction - it has an authority to it and a meta-like quality that genuinely had me flicking back and forth, re-reading sections, studying the art and photographs that had been 'clipped' to the pages, cross-checking dates of the entries and the locations.
The book blurred the lines of whether I was a reader or a student. If the stories were mere entertainment or a lost part of our actual reality.
The second reason I rate this book so highly is the quality of the writing.
With almost all anthologies there are some stories that you like more than others - whether it's down to the story, the execution or the reader's own tastes, some stories simply won't connect with you the way that others do, and inevitably you'll have your favourites in the book.
With this book I adored every single story.
Some are longer than others, some present more of a classic "short story" structure, whilst others offer a glimpse, a few short diary entries that suggest far more than they actually tell you. There is a reason that this book is subtitled "an incomplete record of personal accounts", as that is just what they are. Some people might struggle with that, but I loved it. It freed the authors to get right down to the crux of the matter. We don't need the backstory and the origin of the characters. We don't need the classic 'beginning, middle and end' of every entry - that's not how diarys and letters work.
And so instead of simply going from short story to short story that bear little relevance to each other, what you have here is an alternative history of the world, records that span thousands of years from across the globe that suggest something else, something dark, has been going on that most of us are unaware of.
Every writer gives us something new, every hunter adds a new perspective, and every piece is so wonderfully written and smart and well researched that it never jarred me out of place. I demolished this book in a day and a half, and I already want to go back and re-read it.
I am so very proud and humbled to be a part of this book, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
It is brave and unique and inspired.
July 22, 2025
Let me start by saying I understand that so far, I am in the minority, but hear me out.
I like the concept, love love love an anthology, but I just didn't like this book.
I think some of my dislike lies in the vampire topic. It is so over done! I know more about vampires than any other mythological creature, fantasy creature, cryptid, folkloric creature... you get my point. I also acknowledge that some of my distaste for how certain chapters were handled affected my overall opinion of the book.
Case in point- Edgar Allan Poe. I adore his works, and am well acquainted with his history. What is not appreciated, is to accuse or imply that someone (who is not here to defend themselves) has committed a crime (that has not basis in the real world), or try to make someone's mental illness seem more like a personality choice. Poe was a deeply troubled man, who did not live a fancy and happy life. He was a poor poet, who only had a couple of well known pieces during his lifetime. He dearly loved his wife Virginia (regardless of any feelings about the nature of said relationship). I would have 100% been on board with pointing to his poems and trying to find vampiric meaning, or saying he was in fact a vampire hunter himself and maybe that is why Virginia died. But instead that story rewrites history and paints Poe as a vain monster, who killed his own wife. I take a serious issue with that.
Ichabod Crane was a strange choice, but I much prefer that than trampling on someone's memory. I would have much preferred the authors taking one of two routes: 1) Using completely fictional characters and turning them into vampires or hunters- Ichabod Crane or Van Helsing as are present in this book. or 2) Using real historical accounts/fictionalized stories from those times, and just writing as though we are getting a first hand account of the actual events- Vlad the Impaler, or even Bram Stokers version of Dracula.
The other issue I take is the inconsistency of the vampires. Throughout history the way vampires look is very standard, it is how they act or their weakness/powers that differ. In this book there are normal vampires, bat vampires, tentacle monster vampires. It is far too much. Throughout the world vampires look the same, so reading about these "real life accounts" but the vampires just aren't actually vampires is boring.
I don't understand how this is a horror, other than because vampires are present. I thought it was interesting, and I love the concept, I am just deeply unhappy with the execution. I would not personally recommend this book.
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review*
I like the concept, love love love an anthology, but I just didn't like this book.
I think some of my dislike lies in the vampire topic. It is so over done! I know more about vampires than any other mythological creature, fantasy creature, cryptid, folkloric creature... you get my point. I also acknowledge that some of my distaste for how certain chapters were handled affected my overall opinion of the book.
Case in point- Edgar Allan Poe. I adore his works, and am well acquainted with his history. What is not appreciated, is to accuse or imply that someone (who is not here to defend themselves) has committed a crime (that has not basis in the real world), or try to make someone's mental illness seem more like a personality choice. Poe was a deeply troubled man, who did not live a fancy and happy life. He was a poor poet, who only had a couple of well known pieces during his lifetime. He dearly loved his wife Virginia (regardless of any feelings about the nature of said relationship). I would have 100% been on board with pointing to his poems and trying to find vampiric meaning, or saying he was in fact a vampire hunter himself and maybe that is why Virginia died. But instead that story rewrites history and paints Poe as a vain monster, who killed his own wife. I take a serious issue with that.
Ichabod Crane was a strange choice, but I much prefer that than trampling on someone's memory. I would have much preferred the authors taking one of two routes: 1) Using completely fictional characters and turning them into vampires or hunters- Ichabod Crane or Van Helsing as are present in this book. or 2) Using real historical accounts/fictionalized stories from those times, and just writing as though we are getting a first hand account of the actual events- Vlad the Impaler, or even Bram Stokers version of Dracula.
The other issue I take is the inconsistency of the vampires. Throughout history the way vampires look is very standard, it is how they act or their weakness/powers that differ. In this book there are normal vampires, bat vampires, tentacle monster vampires. It is far too much. Throughout the world vampires look the same, so reading about these "real life accounts" but the vampires just aren't actually vampires is boring.
I don't understand how this is a horror, other than because vampires are present. I thought it was interesting, and I love the concept, I am just deeply unhappy with the execution. I would not personally recommend this book.
*Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review*
July 28, 2025
Actual Rating 3.5
This is a collection of short stories with settings ranging from the time of Agamemnon to Robin Hood to Florida in the twentieth century. While some of the tales did include historical figures or people from folklore, many of them didn’t.
I like when vampires are written this way. Where when you notice one looking at you, you feel like a squirrel who just spotted a red tailed hawk swooping towards it, not a hormonal, vulnerable teenage girl who has a thing for abs. That being said, while all the stories were presented as being suspenseful and horror-leaning, there were very few times I felt any real tension. Most of these stories are quite short though, which I’m sure contributed to that.
The stories are all written in the format of discovered journal pages or letters, and I enjoyed the consistency in their presentation. The work is broken up into sections, with each section starting with a letter passing the collection of papers onto the next heir in the family who is going to take up the mantle of documentation. This was also a great way to have it set up and to present the stories.
My top stories were:
- Saint Orianne by LCW Allingham. Set in 1222, this story follows Knight Templar who attempts to free a small village from the supernatural without destroying the very thing that keeps them safe. To me, this one had the strongest atmosphere and I loved the folklore vibes as well.
- No Mirrors by Mina Humiston. Set in Mississippi in 1863, this story follows a volunteer nurse during the Civil War who realizes there may be fates worse than death. The setting of this one was really strong, the characters were really well written, and the ending was great.
And honorable mentions to Bloodthirsty by Caolán Mac An Aircinn and The White Hunger by Bill Mulligan. While the work starts off with very few female protagonists or female characters at all, this thankfully shifted in the latter half of the work to include more meaningful female roles. If you enjoy vampires and short stories, then this is certainly worth reading. My thanks to BookSirens and the authors for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is a collection of short stories with settings ranging from the time of Agamemnon to Robin Hood to Florida in the twentieth century. While some of the tales did include historical figures or people from folklore, many of them didn’t.
I like when vampires are written this way. Where when you notice one looking at you, you feel like a squirrel who just spotted a red tailed hawk swooping towards it, not a hormonal, vulnerable teenage girl who has a thing for abs. That being said, while all the stories were presented as being suspenseful and horror-leaning, there were very few times I felt any real tension. Most of these stories are quite short though, which I’m sure contributed to that.
The stories are all written in the format of discovered journal pages or letters, and I enjoyed the consistency in their presentation. The work is broken up into sections, with each section starting with a letter passing the collection of papers onto the next heir in the family who is going to take up the mantle of documentation. This was also a great way to have it set up and to present the stories.
My top stories were:
- Saint Orianne by LCW Allingham. Set in 1222, this story follows Knight Templar who attempts to free a small village from the supernatural without destroying the very thing that keeps them safe. To me, this one had the strongest atmosphere and I loved the folklore vibes as well.
- No Mirrors by Mina Humiston. Set in Mississippi in 1863, this story follows a volunteer nurse during the Civil War who realizes there may be fates worse than death. The setting of this one was really strong, the characters were really well written, and the ending was great.
And honorable mentions to Bloodthirsty by Caolán Mac An Aircinn and The White Hunger by Bill Mulligan. While the work starts off with very few female protagonists or female characters at all, this thankfully shifted in the latter half of the work to include more meaningful female roles. If you enjoy vampires and short stories, then this is certainly worth reading. My thanks to BookSirens and the authors for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 21, 2025
It may be sketchy for me to pen a review of Vampire Hunters: An Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts because (full disclosure) I have a short story in the anthology. But I’ll just avoid mentioning that one because the rest of these shorts are so phenomenal, I feel like I need to let people know.
The anthology represents a collection of journal entries, artifacts, transcripts, etc., taken from vampire hunters across history—from 1194 BC to present day. The varying approaches to the concept are fascinating, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes terrifying, often fun and thrilling. D.C. Kuqtima’s “Nights in Kiribati” delivers a startling piece of social commentary that expands vampire lore in incredible ways. “Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road” by William J. Donahue is an infuriatingly brilliant piece of first-person accounting. A.C. Wise’s “Sick” will stick with me for ages—beautiful, repugnant and unsettling.
Like many of the stories in this anthology, Johan Robertsson’s “Attrition” buries the vampire legend within the bloody horror of war. Robertsson’s clever, heartbreaking short comes from a voice so honorable and tragic that it’s hard to shake the story.
Twenty-two short stories in all, boasting so many different styles and time periods, each one redefining the genre in some glorious way. TT Madden’s “Bad Blood” delivers an entirely new image of the creature that I may never be able to sponge from my brain. From classic heroism to hard boiled vampire noir to feminist rage to social commentary—all of it thick with blood—this anthology reignited my interest in vampires and their hunters.
The anthology represents a collection of journal entries, artifacts, transcripts, etc., taken from vampire hunters across history—from 1194 BC to present day. The varying approaches to the concept are fascinating, sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes terrifying, often fun and thrilling. D.C. Kuqtima’s “Nights in Kiribati” delivers a startling piece of social commentary that expands vampire lore in incredible ways. “Party Time at 413 Dallyn Road” by William J. Donahue is an infuriatingly brilliant piece of first-person accounting. A.C. Wise’s “Sick” will stick with me for ages—beautiful, repugnant and unsettling.
Like many of the stories in this anthology, Johan Robertsson’s “Attrition” buries the vampire legend within the bloody horror of war. Robertsson’s clever, heartbreaking short comes from a voice so honorable and tragic that it’s hard to shake the story.
Twenty-two short stories in all, boasting so many different styles and time periods, each one redefining the genre in some glorious way. TT Madden’s “Bad Blood” delivers an entirely new image of the creature that I may never be able to sponge from my brain. From classic heroism to hard boiled vampire noir to feminist rage to social commentary—all of it thick with blood—this anthology reignited my interest in vampires and their hunters.
September 23, 2025
One line vibe: oral history of the hunt with blood in the margins and rules that bite
What it is: A collage of first hand accounts, journal scraps, debriefs, and late night messages from people who have hunted or been hunted. Each voice reads like a piece of evidence. The truth sits between the lines. The style keeps the focus on cost and consequence rather than cheap jumps, and the towns, safehouses, and backroads feel lived in.
Personal take on the narrators: I clicked with the tired professionals and the scared locals who tell their piece and then go quiet. When pride, grief, or faith leak into the reports, it lands. The small contradictions make the world feel real.
What worked for me:
• Patchwork form that rewards paying attention
• Folklore rules used as tools not trivia
• Short entries that stack into real set pieces
• A few voices that stay with you after the light is off
• A closing run that pulls threads together without spelling everything out
What to consider:
• Fragmented structure means you do the stitching
• A couple voices blur if you read tired
• If you need a single hero arc this is not that
Content notes: blood, violence, body horror touches, religious and ritual elements, grief, trauma, loss of loved ones. Check publisher notes for more.
My quote: “Every hunter has two records. One for the file and one that wakes them at three in the morning.” (Adell LaShawn)
Verdict: 4 out of 5. Sharp, eerie, and human. If you like folklore forward horror told through found voices and field notes, add it to your list.
What it is: A collage of first hand accounts, journal scraps, debriefs, and late night messages from people who have hunted or been hunted. Each voice reads like a piece of evidence. The truth sits between the lines. The style keeps the focus on cost and consequence rather than cheap jumps, and the towns, safehouses, and backroads feel lived in.
Personal take on the narrators: I clicked with the tired professionals and the scared locals who tell their piece and then go quiet. When pride, grief, or faith leak into the reports, it lands. The small contradictions make the world feel real.
What worked for me:
• Patchwork form that rewards paying attention
• Folklore rules used as tools not trivia
• Short entries that stack into real set pieces
• A few voices that stay with you after the light is off
• A closing run that pulls threads together without spelling everything out
What to consider:
• Fragmented structure means you do the stitching
• A couple voices blur if you read tired
• If you need a single hero arc this is not that
Content notes: blood, violence, body horror touches, religious and ritual elements, grief, trauma, loss of loved ones. Check publisher notes for more.
My quote: “Every hunter has two records. One for the file and one that wakes them at three in the morning.” (Adell LaShawn)
Verdict: 4 out of 5. Sharp, eerie, and human. If you like folklore forward horror told through found voices and field notes, add it to your list.
July 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!
This book is definitely a bit of fun. It covers different facets of vampire lore and vampire management across the ages, from early Greek times through to the modern day. It is a really enjoyable and unique anthology from that perspective- even if it is clearly rooting for the side that I definitely don’t go for!
There were definitely some stories that were more hit than miss, and the inverse is true as well. I quite enjoyed certain eras, like the 1500s and the redone legend of Robin Hood.
There were, however, inconsistencies in the vampire lore that I found a little difficult to deal with. I understand it’s difficult with anthologies to control the narrative from such a number of authors, but it would have been nice to have a cohesive ‘vampire’ approach, just to bring the stories together.
I did think as well that the weaker of these stories were the more modern day ones. The historical ones left more of a sense of intrigue with the surrounding events, whereas the modern ones were just a bit less magical.
I still think this is a fun anthology, and perhaps I’m just overthinking it more than I should- but it’s absolutely well worth the read, and well worth it too to see all the talent on display within.
This book is definitely a bit of fun. It covers different facets of vampire lore and vampire management across the ages, from early Greek times through to the modern day. It is a really enjoyable and unique anthology from that perspective- even if it is clearly rooting for the side that I definitely don’t go for!
There were definitely some stories that were more hit than miss, and the inverse is true as well. I quite enjoyed certain eras, like the 1500s and the redone legend of Robin Hood.
There were, however, inconsistencies in the vampire lore that I found a little difficult to deal with. I understand it’s difficult with anthologies to control the narrative from such a number of authors, but it would have been nice to have a cohesive ‘vampire’ approach, just to bring the stories together.
I did think as well that the weaker of these stories were the more modern day ones. The historical ones left more of a sense of intrigue with the surrounding events, whereas the modern ones were just a bit less magical.
I still think this is a fun anthology, and perhaps I’m just overthinking it more than I should- but it’s absolutely well worth the read, and well worth it too to see all the talent on display within.
July 31, 2025
Review of free ARC from NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
This book of short stories reads as diary entries collected over time from vampire hunters. Some are interconnected, and they follow a chronological order.
This was hard to get into, and I almost DNF this one, but I hate doing that with any book, so I continued on. The first few stories were a little boring, which was unfortunate that they were placed at the beginning because that's really where you want to get a reader hooked to the book. Many of the stories followed a similar plot, so a bit of repetition throughout, which could be expected with a collection of short stories by multiple authors.
Overall, it was an ok book... and I love to read anything related to vampires, of course! Several of the stories had interesting use of historical events/people tied into them, turning these stories we already know into vampire-related stories. The longer stories that had much more detail were the best reads in comparison to some of the shorter fragmented stories. Especially towards the end, there were a few stories with unique situations that were very interesting, so I am glad I held on and continued to read the entire book.
This book of short stories reads as diary entries collected over time from vampire hunters. Some are interconnected, and they follow a chronological order.
This was hard to get into, and I almost DNF this one, but I hate doing that with any book, so I continued on. The first few stories were a little boring, which was unfortunate that they were placed at the beginning because that's really where you want to get a reader hooked to the book. Many of the stories followed a similar plot, so a bit of repetition throughout, which could be expected with a collection of short stories by multiple authors.
Overall, it was an ok book... and I love to read anything related to vampires, of course! Several of the stories had interesting use of historical events/people tied into them, turning these stories we already know into vampire-related stories. The longer stories that had much more detail were the best reads in comparison to some of the shorter fragmented stories. Especially towards the end, there were a few stories with unique situations that were very interesting, so I am glad I held on and continued to read the entire book.
November 6, 2025
If you like found footage and vampires, take a gander at Vampire Hunters: An Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts edited by River Eno.
This is an indie horror anthology of interconnected vampire stories across history. Each section is bridged with the record keeper passing the torch to the next in line. The last story plus the ending was excellent. Leave us wanting and wondering but not to dissatisfaction.
As with all anthologies, the quality of the stories varied. Some were smart, inventive, and interesting. Others were too short and too vague for my taste. I ranked each story so the average rating was 4.3 which feels accurate.
The main standouts for me were Saint Orianne, Blood Stains True, All the Devils at Once, and Nights in Kiribati. I’d recently watched a vlog about someone traveling to Kiribati so that added to my enjoyment.
I only had one gripe on the overall collection. Since all the stories are interconnected, the diversity among the vampire species was a little confusing. The subspecies explanation is touched on but not at the depth I hoped. Overall, this is a fun and interesting anthology. I’d absolutely recommend it. 4/5
Big thanks to Speculation Publications and NetGalley. Sorry I couldn’t get the review out sooner.
This is an indie horror anthology of interconnected vampire stories across history. Each section is bridged with the record keeper passing the torch to the next in line. The last story plus the ending was excellent. Leave us wanting and wondering but not to dissatisfaction.
As with all anthologies, the quality of the stories varied. Some were smart, inventive, and interesting. Others were too short and too vague for my taste. I ranked each story so the average rating was 4.3 which feels accurate.
The main standouts for me were Saint Orianne, Blood Stains True, All the Devils at Once, and Nights in Kiribati. I’d recently watched a vlog about someone traveling to Kiribati so that added to my enjoyment.
I only had one gripe on the overall collection. Since all the stories are interconnected, the diversity among the vampire species was a little confusing. The subspecies explanation is touched on but not at the depth I hoped. Overall, this is a fun and interesting anthology. I’d absolutely recommend it. 4/5
Big thanks to Speculation Publications and NetGalley. Sorry I couldn’t get the review out sooner.
July 17, 2025
I don’t say this lightly, but this book gets it. Like, the dark, creeping dread of something ancient watching from the shadows... but make it literary, historical, and kind of addictive? Obsessed.
This isn’t your average vampire anthology. It reads like someone broke into the Vatican’s restricted section and smuggled out a cursed binder of vampire hunter receipts, personal notes, battlefield dispatches, and haunted voicemails. And somehow, it works. There’s this constant tension between myth and memory that makes even the more surreal pieces feel grounded—and honestly, that just made it scarier.
The settings jump across centuries and continents, and the variety in tone and format keeps things fresh without ever losing the thread. It’s weird in all the right ways. And I genuinely loved how the book lets gaps and contradictions exist—it feels like real folklore, stitched together by those desperate enough to face it.
Dark, clever, and just unsettling enough to make you side-eye your basement door. Do yourself a favor and definitely get a copy when it drops.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
This isn’t your average vampire anthology. It reads like someone broke into the Vatican’s restricted section and smuggled out a cursed binder of vampire hunter receipts, personal notes, battlefield dispatches, and haunted voicemails. And somehow, it works. There’s this constant tension between myth and memory that makes even the more surreal pieces feel grounded—and honestly, that just made it scarier.
The settings jump across centuries and continents, and the variety in tone and format keeps things fresh without ever losing the thread. It’s weird in all the right ways. And I genuinely loved how the book lets gaps and contradictions exist—it feels like real folklore, stitched together by those desperate enough to face it.
Dark, clever, and just unsettling enough to make you side-eye your basement door. Do yourself a favor and definitely get a copy when it drops.
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
June 26, 2025
Bad-ass warriors doing bad-ass deeds fill the pages of this anthology. The book comes with trigger warnings, but look beyond the list and see the heroic pursuit of evil, selfless commitment and self-sacrifice, deep insights into the minds of those dedicated to ridding the world of evil, even if sometimes that means becoming what they seek to eradicate.
As a historical-fiction writer myself, I'm especially impressed with the level of detailed research incorporated into these stories, ranging from the 8th century BCE to today. Moreover, these stories are especially notable for creating intense moods through those details, no small feat given the restriction of the epistolary format.
My personal favorite is "Sick" by A.C. Wise, but then, I've occasionally been described as sick too.
Kick Buffy aside and take in these tales of the battle against vampires across history. Guaranteed to satisfy!
Many thanks to Speculation Publications for this ARC.
As a historical-fiction writer myself, I'm especially impressed with the level of detailed research incorporated into these stories, ranging from the 8th century BCE to today. Moreover, these stories are especially notable for creating intense moods through those details, no small feat given the restriction of the epistolary format.
My personal favorite is "Sick" by A.C. Wise, but then, I've occasionally been described as sick too.
Kick Buffy aside and take in these tales of the battle against vampires across history. Guaranteed to satisfy!
Many thanks to Speculation Publications for this ARC.
July 26, 2025
I unfortunately didn’t love this book. I was so keen to read an anthology of vampire horror stories but I’ll be honest, I found that this read more like a vampire textbook more so than an anthology of scary short stories.
I wouldn’t say there was much “horror” about this personally, I think maybe if it was more geared toward the fact that it’s covering vampire lore, it may have found the right target audience which unfortunately was not me. I’m not a huge fan of that historical, factual style of writing myself, I prefer an immersive action packed book even in my short stories so this one missed the mark for me.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
I wouldn’t say there was much “horror” about this personally, I think maybe if it was more geared toward the fact that it’s covering vampire lore, it may have found the right target audience which unfortunately was not me. I’m not a huge fan of that historical, factual style of writing myself, I prefer an immersive action packed book even in my short stories so this one missed the mark for me.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book.
July 17, 2025
Typos aside (my job is to see these, so I notice them more than most), this book was unique, fun, and a good read. The first part was really entertaining, but the novelty and enjoyability ran out by the end of part 2. It could be that I prefer historical settings to more modern ones. This fizzling out with the typos is why I give 3 instead of 4 stars. I was dragging my way too much through the second bit.
The great thing about books like this one is that if you don't like a story, its over quickly and followed by a different one. You just keep reading and the next story. might be more to your taste.
The great thing about books like this one is that if you don't like a story, its over quickly and followed by a different one. You just keep reading and the next story. might be more to your taste.
July 9, 2025
Vampire Hunters: An Incomplete Record of Personal Accounts from Speculation Publications has a variety of horror authors’ contributions. All of these stories are varied with homages to famous vampires and historical accounts. I especially liked the contributions from Gwendolyn Kiste and TT Madden. This is a unique anthology as it reads as records and letters. This title was not on my radar through social media, but was glad to come across this unique take on vampire stories.
Thank you to Speculation Publications and NetGalley for the digital ARC for an honest review.
Thank you to Speculation Publications and NetGalley for the digital ARC for an honest review.
July 4, 2025
I really liked the setup of the book. Decades of vampire hunters and the ones that they hunt through journal entries and transcripts. Every chapter being written by a different author makes for an interesting read. The variety in writing styles and story settings are so much fun.
My favorites among them(in no particular order) are:
Saint Orianne
A Drink of Death
The White Hunger
Sweet Sister
Sick
Thank you Net Galley for the eARC.
My favorites among them(in no particular order) are:
Saint Orianne
A Drink of Death
The White Hunger
Sweet Sister
Sick
Thank you Net Galley for the eARC.
July 17, 2025
This was a fantastic concept in the vampire genre, each story was wonderfully written and I enjoyed the historical element to them. I enjoyed that it was like a record of these events and how it was used in this collection. Each author was able to tell the story that it needed to and was invested in what happened in this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 22, 2025
Fantastic short story collection about vampire hunters in different time periods and cultures. I really enjoyed how creative this was with so many different takes on vampire mythology. My absolute favourites were "The Strix", "Saint Orianne", "Sick", and "19 Nights in Kiribati". I also really enjoyed the mixed media aspect with the photographs and drawings, which brought the stories even more to life.
July 22, 2025
Man, what an incredible anthology: elegant, eerie, and gloriously ghoulish. It's an extraordinarily clever approach to an anthology about vampires and the humans who hunt them, with some terrific stories about vampires across oceans of time and space. The editors of Speculation Publications should be very proud of themselves for putting out this masterpiece; it must have taken a lot of blood (naturally), sweat, and probably a tear or two, and the effort shows on every page.
August 5, 2025
Loved this collection of vampire hunter stories. The authors did a great job on sticking with the narrative style and it reading like a documentary/historical account. Each author in this collection brings something different to the story--taking us through the history of the vampires in the olden days. And these are not your friendly counts. If you like short, historical, powerful stories about vampires this is something to check out.
August 26, 2025
This was such a fun read! I love the fantasy/horror genre and vampires are my favorite. So it was cool to see them from different perspectives yet still somewhat similar. I am hoping at some point there is a volume II.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 30, 2025
I Read this as an ARC. Overall enjoyed the short stories in this book. Loved that they all were related to vampires, reminded me of Dracula at some points. Would have enjoyed it more if some of the entries had been longer or if any of them had crossed over.
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