The Vampire Stories of R. Chetwynd-Hayes

This 1997 collection brings together R. Chetwynd-Hayes's vampire-themed short stories, previously published across various anthologies. The volume includes a foreword by Brian Lumley and an afterword by editor Stephen Jones. The sixteen stories present diverse takes on vampire mythology, ranging from traditional Gothic horror to more contemporary settings. The collection features tales of family relationships with vampires, encounters between supernatural creatures, and various interpretations of vampire lore. The book was originally published by Fedogan & Bremer in a limited run of 1,000 copies, with 100 special editions signed by the author, editor, illustrator, cover artist, and Brian Lumley. It has since been republished under the title "Looking for Something to Suck: The Vampire Stories of R. Chetwynd-Hayes." These stories examine themes of family dynamics, isolation, and the complex relationship between humans and supernatural beings. The collection demonstrates Chetwynd-Hayes's ability to blend horror with elements of dark humor and social commentary.

Reviews are limited, with only a small number available online. The book maintains a 3.71/5 rating on Goodreads from 14 ratings. Readers praise: - The diverse range of vampire tales that deviate from standard tropes - Dark humor throughout the stories - The author's ability to write both serious horror and comedy - British setting and atmosphere Readers dislike: - Uneven quality between stories - Some dated cultural references and language - Several stories feel predictable One reader noted "The Labyrinth" as the standout story in the collection. Another highlighted that the stories work better when focused on horror rather than humor. No Amazon reviews are currently available. Most online discussion appears in horror fiction forums rather than major review sites. Note: Many reviews seem to be from readers discovering the book through other horror anthologies that included Chetwynd-Hayes' work.

The Hunger by Alma Katsu A supernatural reimagining of the Donner Party's journey features creatures stalking the wagon train through the wilderness.

Dark Harvest by Norman Partridge A small Midwestern town holds an annual ritual where teenage boys hunt a supernatural entity known as the October Boy.

The Lesser Dead by Christopher Buehlman Vampires inhabit the tunnels beneath 1978 New York City until they encounter a group of child vampires who upset their established order.

Anno Dracula by Kim Newman In an alternate Victorian London where Dracula defeated Van Helsing, vampires and humans coexist while Jack the Ripper targets vampire prostitutes.

The Quick by Lauren Owen A secret vampire society operates beneath Victorian London's surface, entangling a young poet in their underground world.

🦇 R. Chetwynd-Hayes was nicknamed "Britain's Prince of Chill" due to his distinctive blend of horror and humor in supernatural fiction 📚 His story "The Vampire" was adapted into a segment of the 1981 horror film "The Monster Club," starring Vincent Price and John Carradine 🏰 Unlike many vampire fiction writers who focus on exotic locations, Chetwynd-Hayes often set his stories in ordinary British suburban settings, creating a unique contrast between the supernatural and mundane 📖 The 1997 limited edition of "The Vampire Stories" is highly sought after by collectors, with only 1,000 copies initially printed 🌙 Chetwynd-Hayes wrote over 200 short stories and 12 novels during his career, significantly contributing to the evolution of British horror literature in the latter half of the 20th century