Step into the shadowy, spellbinding streets of Victorian London with the Ghosts of Albion series, where magic crackles and supernatural dangers lurk around every cobblestone corner! Crafted by Amber Benson, beloved for her role as Tara in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Christopher Golden, a Bram Stoker Award-winning author, this supernatural thriller series blends urban fantasy with 19th-century intrigue. Follow siblings William and Tamara Swift as they inherit mystical powers to protect Britain from demons, vampires, and ghostly threats, all while navigating a world of historical icons like Lord Byron and Queen Bodicea.
With its mix of heart-pounding horror, dark humor, and richly drawn characters, Ghosts of Albion invites readers into an alternate universe where the mystical soul of England—Albion—faces constant peril. Whether you’re a fan of gothic adventures or urban fantasy, this series promises a thrilling ride through a fog-drenched, magical Britain.
How Ghosts of Albion Began
The series kicked off in 2002 as an animated web series for the BBC, co-created, co-written, and directed by Benson and Golden. Inspired by their shared love for horror and fantasy, the duo envisioned a Victorian world where magic and history collide. The web series’ success, praised for its innovative flash-animation, led to a novella, role-playing game, and a series of novels. Benson’s Buffy roots and Golden’s knack for crafting chilling tales shaped a narrative that feels both cinematic and deeply rooted in British folklore.
The Heart of Ghosts of Albion
The series centers on William and Tamara Swift, reluctant yet destined Protectors of Albion. In Accursed (2005), the siblings battle a grotesque plague turning Londoners into reptilian monsters, aided by ghostly allies like Admiral Nelson and Lord Byron. Witchery (2006) dives deeper into Arthurian legend, with Tamara facing a waking evil threatening Camelot’s legacy. The novella Astray (2004) sees the Swifts unravel a mystery of demonic changelings in the village of Blackbriar, showcasing their spell-casting prowess.
Themes of duty, family, and resilience pulse through the series, set against a vividly gothic Victorian backdrop. The Swifts’ dynamic—William’s cautious responsibility versus Tamara’s headstrong passion—adds emotional depth, while the blend of historical figures and mythical creatures creates a unique urban fantasy flavor. The series’ dark humor and sensuous undertones, paired with its fast-paced plotting, make it a standout for fans of supernatural thrillers.
Why Ghosts of Albion Resonates
Though not as widely known as Buffy, Ghosts of Albion has carved a niche among urban fantasy and horror fans for its bold mix of history and magic. Its roots in a pioneering web series highlight its innovative spirit, while Benson and Golden’s unified storytelling vision delivers a cohesive, immersive world. The series’ exploration of gender roles—especially Tamara’s defiance of Victorian norms—adds a modern edge, resonating with readers seeking strong, complex heroines.
Fan reviews praise the rich worldbuilding and atmospheric setting, though some note the series’ brevity (only two novels and a novella) leaves room for more adventures. Its cult status endures, fueled by Benson’s star power and Golden’s genre expertise, making it a hidden gem for those craving a fresh take on Victorian fantasy.
- Publication Years: 2004–2006
- Number of Books: 2 novels, 1 novella, 1 short story collection
- Genres: Supernatural thriller, urban fantasy, historical fantasy
Grab Accursed and dive into Ghosts of Albion’s spellbinding world of magic, monsters, and Victorian intrigue today!