The Vampire Diaries: A Guide to Reading Order
The Vampire Diaries series, created by L.J. Smith, has captivated readers for years with its thrilling blend of romance, mystery, and supernatural elements. But with so many books and spin-offs, it can be tricky to know where to start. Here's a guide to the Vampire Diaries books in the order you should read them, ensuring you don't miss any crucial plot points.
The Vampire Diaries: The Original Series
This series follows the story of Elena Gilbert, a teenage girl who finds herself entangled in a world of vampires after falling for the mysterious and brooding Stefan Salvatore.
- The Vampire Diaries
- The Night of the Hunter
- The Fury of the Fallen
- The Awakening
- The Return: Nightfall
- The Return: Shadowlands
- The Return: Midnight
- The Hunters: The Secret of the Macabres (Standalone)
The Vampire Diaries: The Legacy Series
This series picks up years after the original series, following the next generation of characters.
- The Legacy: The Sacrifice
- The Legacy: The Brotherhood
- The Legacy: The Promise
The Vampire Diaries: The Secret Diaries of Stefan Salvatore
This series is told from the perspective of Stefan Salvatore, giving readers a deeper understanding of his internal struggles and motivations.
- The Secret Diaries of Stefan Salvatore: The Struggle
- The Secret Diaries of Stefan Salvatore: The Fall
- The Secret Diaries of Stefan Salvatore: The Rising
The Vampire Diaries: The Other Side
This series follows the story of Damon Salvatore and his journey in the afterlife.
- The Other Side: A Vampire Diaries Story
The Vampire Diaries: The Vampire Diaries: The Hunters
This series follows the story of a group of vampire hunters who are determined to end the vampire threat.
- The Vampire Diaries: The Hunters: The Secret of the Macabres (Standalone)
- The Vampire Diaries: The Hunters: The Return
- The Vampire Diaries: The Hunters: The Final Battle
Note:
- There is a chronological reading order, which starts with "The Secret Diaries of Stefan Salvatore." However, the most common recommendation is to follow the order listed above, as it allows for a more natural progression of the storylines.
- "The Hunters: The Secret of the Macabres" is a standalone novel, which can be read after "The Vampire Diaries" series.
- The Legacy series is a separate storyline that can be read after the original Vampire Diaries series.
With this reading guide, you can dive into the captivating world of The Vampire Diaries and experience the thrilling journey of Elena, Stefan, and their companions.