The Vampire Diaries is a series of young adult paranormal romance novels written by L.J. Smith. This is the complete list of The Vampire Diaries books in order.
As each book in The Vampire Diaries series builds on the events of the previous ones, and there is an overarching storyline, it’s generally advisable to read the books in order. The series follows a chronological sequence, and characters undergo developments and face challenges that carry over from one book to the next.
The Vampire Diaries Books in Order: Simple List
The Vampire Diaries Books
- The Awakening (1991)
- The Struggle (1991)
- The Fury (1991)
- Dark Reunion (1991)
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan’s Diaries Series
- Origins (2010)
- Bloodlust (2011)
- The Craving (2011)
- The Ripper (2011)
- The Asylum (2012)
- The Compelled (2012)
The Vampire Diaries: The Hunters Series
- Phantom (2011)
- Moonsong (2011)
- Destiny Rising (2012)
The Vampire Diaries: The Return Books
- Nightfall (2009)
- Shadow Souls (2010)
- Midnight (2011)
The Vampire Diaries: The Salvation Trilogy
- Unseen (2013)
- Unspoken (2013)
- Unmasked (2014)
What are The Vampire Diaries books about?
The Vampire Diaries book series are a collection of fantasy paranormal novel written by L.J. Smith. The series follows the lives of various characters in the fictional town of Fell’s Church. The original series was published in the early 1990s, and later the story was continued with additional books written by a ghostwriter.
The main characters in the series are Elena Gilbert, a popular high school student, and the Salvatore brothers, Stefan and Damon. The series begins with Elena returning to school after her parents’ tragic death and becoming romantically involved with Stefan Salvatore. However, as the series progresses, Elena finds herself in a complex love triangle with Stefan and his vampire brother Damon as they both fight for Elena’s heart.
The books explore the supernatural elements of vampires, witches, and other mystical creatures. The story combines elements of romance, horror, and drama, and it delves into the characters’ struggles with their identities, relationships, and the challenges of the supernatural world.
What is the first book in the Vampire Diaries book series?
The first book in The Vampire Diaries book series is titled The Awakening, originally published in 1991.
What are The Return books about?
The Return trilogy in The Vampire Diaries book series is a continuation that follows the original books. The events pick up after the conclusion of the first four books (The Awakening, The Struggle, The Fury, and Dark Reunion). This new trilogy expands upon the storyline and explores further developments in the lives of the characters, particularly Elena Gilbert and the Salvatore brothers, Damon and Stefan.
The series contains the following books:
Nightfall: Elena Gilbert returns to life with newfound powers after sacrificing herself to save the vampire brothers who love her. Gifted with extraordinary abilities, her blood becomes irresistible to vampires. The brothers, Damon and Stefan, still desire her, but a greater and more powerful force may have its own plans for Elena.
Shadow Souls:
Elena Gilbert finds herself in a world of magic and peril without Stefan’s protection. Now, she must rely on Damon, the captivating yet dangerous vampire, to navigate the slums of the Dark Dimension. In this realm, vampires and demons roam freely, while humans live as slaves to their supernatural rulers. Elena’s life hangs in the balance as she and Damon embark on a treacherous journey through this dangerous dimension.
Midnight: Golden girl Elena Gilbert is back from the Dark Dimension; having successfully freed her vampire boyfriend Stefan Salvatore from imprisonment. Saving Stefan had an unlikely consequence: his vampire brother Damon Salvatore has become a mortal. While the trio reels from this latest twist; they must still deal with the demons that have taken over Elena’s hometown; Fell’s Church
Who is L.J. Smith?
L J Smith, whose full name is Lisa Jane Smith, is an American author known for her work in young adult and paranormal fiction. She was born on September 4, 1965, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. L.J. Smith is best recognised for her contributions to the supernatural romance genre.
In addition to The Vampire Diaries, L.J. Smith has written several other book series, including The Secret Circle and The Night World, both of which also explore themes of the supernatural and romance.
Is The Vampire Diaries TV show based on the books?
Yes, The Vampire Diaries is a popular TV series which is loosely based on the book series of the same name. The show takes inspiration from the characters and supernatural elements introduced in the books. However, it’s important to note that the television adaptation, co-created by Julie Plec and Kevin Williamson, takes creative liberties and diverges significantly from the original books.
While both the TV show and the books share the central characters of Elena Gilbert and the handsome but deadly vampire brothers Stefan and Damon Salvatore, the plots and character arcs in the television adaptation take different directions. The actions takes place in Mystic Falls not Fell’s Church and the show introduces new characters and explores storylines that are not present in the original book series.
The Vampire Diaries Books in Order: Summary
This is the complete list of The Vampire Diaries books in order. I’ll keep this list updated if any new books are released.
If you’re looking for more reading inspiration why not check out my other book lists and book reviews. I have book reviews listed by author and book reviews listed by genre. I also have author reading lists and series order lists to help inspire you.
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