Dive into the sultry, shadowy world of the Last True Vampire series, where passion and peril collide in a heart-pounding paranormal romance saga! Written by Kate Baxter, this gripping series set in the neon-lit streets of Los Angeles follows vampires battling for love, survival, and redemption. With steamy encounters and high-stakes drama, it’s a must-read for fans of dark, romantic fantasy.
From the moment you crack open the first book, you’re swept into a world where ancient vampires face soul-crushing loneliness—until their fated mates ignite sparks that could save or destroy them. Baxter’s blend of sensual storytelling and thrilling action has carved a niche in the paranormal romance genre, captivating readers with its irresistible mix of danger and desire.
How Last True Vampire Began
Kate Baxter, a self-proclaimed die-hard romantic with a love for Shakespeare and all things fanged, launched the Last True Vampire series in 2015 with St. Martin’s Paperbacks. Inspired by classic vampire lore and modern romance giants like J.R. Ward and Lara Adrian, Baxter crafted a world where vampires aren’t just brooding heartthrobs—they’re complex beings tied to a collective memory, fighting to rebuild their race. Her rural Idaho roots and penchant for sunny lakeside views contrast the dark, urban grit of her stories, making her work a unique fusion of heart and heat.
The Heart of Last True Vampire
The series kicks off with The Last True Vampire (2015), where Michael Aristov, the last of the Ancient Ones, roams L.A.’s nightclubs, haunted by his past. His world shifts when he meets Claire Thompson, a mortal whose intoxicating blood promises salvation—or doom. Their fiery connection sets the tone for a series filled with soul-tethered mates and explosive chemistry. The Warrior Vampire (2015) follows Ronan, Michael’s loyal ally, as he battles a mystical bond with Naya, a woman from a rival tribe, amidst ancient magic and betrayal.
The Dark Vampire (2016) introduces Jenner, a brooding protector, and Bria, a sheltered innocent turned vampire, whose opposites-attract romance crackles with tension. The Untamed Vampire (2017) shifts gears with Chelle, a magically turned vampire, and Gunnar, an alpha werewolf, whose forbidden love defies clan wars. Across these tales, Baxter weaves themes of redemption, identity, and the transformative power of love, set against a richly imagined L.A. backdrop where vampires, dhampirs, and werewolves clash with slayers and zealots. Her innovative mythology—think double-fanged vampires and a collective memory bank—adds depth to the steamy, action-packed plots.
Why Last True Vampire Resonates
The Last True Vampire series has left a mark on paranormal romance fans, earning praise for its intense emotion and meticulous world-building. Reviewers liken it to J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood for its alpha heroes and fierce heroines, with Kirkus Reviews calling The Wicked Vampire “electric and dangerous.” Baxter’s ability to balance raw sensuality with deeper themes like belonging and sacrifice keeps readers hooked, while her diverse cast of supernatural beings broadens the genre’s appeal. Though not a cultural juggernaut, the series’ loyal fanbase cherishes its fresh take on vampire lore and its promise of more stories to come.
- Publication Years: 2015–2017
- Number of Books: 6 (5 novels, 1 novella)
- Genres: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
Ready to sink your teeth into a world of passion and danger? Grab The Last True Vampire and lose yourself in Kate Baxter’s seductive, thrilling universe!