Carmilla the Return: A Vampire Novel

This story stands the test of time. I've always loved vampires, especially the lyric eroticism of the original Carmilla by LeFanu. So of course I grabbed this book when it was first published. I enjoyed the read, and tucked it away in my collection, and only just recently pulled it out again for another look. A friend had seen it on my book shelf and exclaimed that there was a 'sequel' to Carmilla. While I would say this is more a story inspired by the original, as all vampire novels that spring from the base fictional story of Carmilla, Dracula, and the historic ones of Countess Bathory--- than a 'sequel' -- it was one I felt kept true to the theme of the original Carmilla. More sensual than sexy, and erotic in a half veiled way where nothing is truly graphic, but leads to the imagination of the reader. I should have liked to have seen a continuation of this story. In a time when vampire series are rife and almost tiresome in their prolificness, the further story of what became of the main characters of this book would have been welcome by myself. Not quite a romance, not quite a horror story, it hovers between the themes like a poignant phantom. I'd recommend it. (( =^,,^=

Carmilla The Return is the best Vampire book I have read in a very long time. It is sexy, well written, captivating, seductive, and a great story. I couldn't put it down. If you love vampires or even if you don't, this book is worth reading.

I had to throw in my two cents because I see a couple of people say they didn't like this novel. I can't imagine why. Would I rank it up there with Stoker's Dracula and Anne Rice's books? Maybe not, but it's still one of the best modern vampire novels I've ever read, and I challenge anyone to find a sexier horror novel that so successfully titillates and terrifies at the same time.

I've heard this book was nominated for some kind of horror award. I'm just surprised it didn't win. The basic plot of LeFanu's original novella is echoed throughout, but in a very modern way. Every time the author lulls you into a dreamy, sensual mood, the book startles you with some unexpected and entirely frightening shocker. If only the Hammer films had followed Marffin's path. Why doesn't someone make a flick of this novel? All in all, a terrific read.

EXCEPT for the books in Anne Rice's The Vampire Chronicles(which reside in a Holy place and cannot be compared to other books:o),this is THE BEST vampire novel I have EVER read.The title character,Carmilla,is the most seductive,fascinating,bewitching,mysterious, enigmatic,alluring, enchanting,sinsister yet irresistibly charming character I have EVER come across.This book is sensual,gripping,and SOOOO exciting and suspenseful I had to put it down once in a while just to get ahold of myself,it stirred me up so!If you are a fan of this genre,and you HAVEN'T read this book,SHAME ON YOU-read it IMMEDIATELY!