Rachael's Reviews > Vampires Never Get Old: Tales with Fresh Bite

An anthology of vampire stories that felt fairly original because of how diverse the characters were. Individual ratings and mini reviews for each story below. Average rating = 3.91 (rounded up to 4 stars).

SEVEN NIGHTS FOR DYING
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was interesting because it explored some consequences of turning into a vampire that I hadn't thought of before. However, I'd like to point out that 30 years old is not old!

THE BOYS FROM BLOOD RIVER
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The start enticed me with the song that summons vampires appearing on the jukebox in the diner. The middle was just ok. But, the ending, while a bit rushed, was better.

SENIOR YEAR SUCKS
⭐⭐⭐
I don't know what to say about this one. It was good I think but I also think there are much better stories in the anthology

THE BOY AND THE BELL
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I really liked how this one was set in the Victorian/Edwardian era combining gravedigging stories and mythical elements. I was left hoping that Will gets to do his dream job.

A GUIDEBOOK FOR THE NEWLY SIRED DESI VAMPIRE
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was great. I loved how it it felt like a blog post with its pop culture references and fourth wall breaking. I also liked learning more about desi.

IN KIND
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This was such an interesting take on morality, mercy and mortality. I liked how this showed that turning into a vampire doesn't change everything about you.

VAMPIRES NEVER SAY DIE
⭐⭐⭐
Unlike A Guidebook... I felt that here the pop culture references didn't work so well. The age gap trope didn't sit well with me either.

BESTIARY
⭐⭐⭐
I think I need to reread this story at some point. There's a subtlety to it which I seemed to have missed and it only became apparent when I read the editrixes' note after the story.

MIRRORS, WINDOWS AND SELFIES
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Another story in blog form. It also put another spin on how vampires are created and I quite liked reading it.

THE HOUSE OF BLACK SAPPHIRES
⭐⭐⭐⭐
An atmospheric and engaging short story. I'd love to see it developed into a full length novel.

FIRST KILL
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Victoria Schwab, you can't end the short story there! I was just getting my teeth into it (pun intended). I'm craving more like a vampire craves blood. Absolutely loved it.