Step into the sultry, supernatural world of The Originals, where ancient vampires, forbidden love, and New Orleans’ vibrant mystique collide! This gripping paranormal romance series, spun off from the hit TV show and inspired by L.J. Smith’s The Vampire Diaries, follows the Mikaelson family—the world’s first vampires—as they navigate power, betrayal, and unbreakable family bonds. With its intoxicating blend of historical drama and otherworldly intrigue, The Originals hooks readers with every page.
Centered in the heart of New Orleans, the series paints a vivid backdrop of jazz-filled streets and shadowy secrets, pulling fans into a saga where love and loyalty are as dangerous as any vampire’s bite. Ready to sink your teeth into this thrilling tale? Let’s explore what makes The Originals a must-read!
How The Originals Began
The Originals book series, authored by Julie Plec and a team of writers, emerged as a novelization of the popular TV series, which itself was a spin-off of The Vampire Diaries. Launched in 2015, the books aimed to deepen the lore of the Mikaelson siblings—Klaus, Elijah, and Rebekah—whose centuries-long saga captivated TV audiences. Plec, a key figure behind the show, crafted the novels to expand on the family’s origins, drawing inspiration from the show’s rich world of vampire politics and New Orleans’ supernatural allure.
While the TV series set the stage, the books carve their own path, offering fresh perspectives on the Mikaelsons’ early days in 18th-century New Orleans. Fans of the show and newcomers alike embraced the novels for their deeper dive into the characters’ motivations and the city’s magical underbelly, cementing The Originals as a standout in paranormal romance.
The Heart of The Originals
The Originals series comprises three main novels: The Rise, The Loss, and The Resurrection. In The Rise, readers meet the Mikaelson siblings as they arrive in 1720s New Orleans, seeking a new home but sparking conflict with local witches and werewolves. The Loss delves into the siblings’ fractured bonds as betrayal and a dangerous love triangle threaten their survival. Finally, The Resurrection sees the Mikaelsons facing a vengeful enemy, forcing them to confront their past sins to protect their legacy.
At its core, the series weaves themes of family loyalty, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The Mikaelsons, though immortal and powerful, grapple with human emotions—jealousy, love, and guilt—making them relatable despite their supernatural nature. New Orleans itself is a character, its Creole culture and mystical aura amplifying the series’ gothic romance and suspenseful tone. The novels’ lush prose and intricate character dynamics elevate them beyond typical vampire fare, offering a feast for fans of drama and intrigue.
Unlike many paranormal romances, The Originals balances action with emotional depth. Whether it’s Klaus’s ruthless ambition, Elijah’s moral compass, or Rebekah’s quest for love, each sibling’s journey resonates, creating a tapestry of passion and peril that keeps readers hooked.
Why The Originals Resonates
The Originals has carved a niche in the paranormal romance genre by blending historical richness with modern sensibilities. Its focus on family dynamics sets it apart from vampire stories centered solely on romance, appealing to readers who crave complex narratives. The series’ New Orleans setting, steeped in voodoo lore and cultural vibrancy, adds a unique flavor, inspiring fan art, discussions, and even tourism to the city’s haunted hotspots.
Though a novelization, the books stand on their own, earning praise for expanding the Mikaelson legacy with vivid storytelling. They’ve kept the fandom alive post-TV series, proving the enduring allure of morally gray characters and epic love stories. For readers seeking a fresh take on vampires, The Originals delivers a timeless saga of power and heart.
- Publication Years: 2015
- Number of Books: 3
- Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
- Target Audience: Young Adult and Adult
Grab The Rise and dive into The Originals’ spellbinding world of vampires, love, and New Orleans magic! Whether you’re a fan of the show or a newcomer, this series promises a thrilling ride you won’t forget.