The Vampire Diaries

Few people know that the popular television series, 'The Vampire Diaries', actually originated with a passionate series of the same name. Although there are some notable differences between the popular television drama and Smith's novels, the books follow a similar tale when it comes to Elena Gilbert, a woman torn between her love for two vampire brothers. As clichéd as these novels are, with classic vampire fears of sunlight and wooden stakes, they are an enjoyable combination of teenage romance, graphic horror and fantasy, full of complex, well-developed characters and numerous plot twists. As each book of the series progresses, more and more fantastical characters, including werewolves and witches, are introduced, enthralling motives and hidden agendas are brought to light and the vampires of Mystic Falls become more dangerous than ever. The moody undertones of this novel, paired with the classic American high school tale of undying and unrequited love, make for an entertaining and exciting read.