The Last Vampire by R. R. Campbell: A Surprising Gem in the YA Universe
After wading through a couple of less-than-stellar reads, I stumbled across The Last Vampire by R. R. Campbell, and let me tell you, it was like a refreshing splash of cool water on a hot day. I think I hadn’t realized how much I needed a fun, engaging story until I found myself immersed in Lorena and Salma’s adventures. Yes, it’s technically a young adult novel, but it’s layered enough to capture the attention of anyone willing to dive into its intriguing world.
At its heart, The Last Vampire explores friendship, self-discovery, and the classic struggle between tradition and modernity. Lorena and Salma have been inseparable since birth, but as they navigate their final year of high school, they find themselves at a boarding school far removed from the chaos of their past lives—thanks, in part, to a messy incident that spirals out of control online. The premise drew me in immediately: 17- and 18-year-olds without internet access? Mischief was practically a guarantee!
Things take a dramatic turn when Lorena and her friends stumble upon a coffin hidden within the school’s dimly lit corridors. The moment Lorena encounters William, the so-called "last vampire," with his striking amethyst eyes and perilous charm, my heart raced. Their encounter sets off a chain of events that beautifully intertwine horror and humor, all while bringing to light the complexities of young love in such a bizarre scenario.
One standout aspect of Campbell’s writing is his commitment to authenticity, even in more unconventional contexts. The candid discussions about menstruation felt genuine and refreshing, although I must admit, it was a surprising topic for a vampire narrative. But as someone who appreciates the normalization of these topics, it added a unique layer to the story, even if it did edge into the realm of the ick factor.
What I found particularly captivating was the lore surrounding William’s existence—or rather, his struggle to understand a world that has moved on without him. His character embodies a blend of ancient wisdom and naïveté, and his relationship with Lorena increasingly feels like a tension between protector and beloved pet. This dynamic can be jarring at times, especially when framed against the backdrop of their intense physical connection, but it added to the narrative’s unpredictable nature.
The supporting characters—especially the overzealous reporters Zack and Tiffany, along with the unsuspecting vampire hunter Trevor—provide comic relief amidst the suspense. They are undoubtedly caricatures but serve their purpose well, keeping the plot lively and engaging.
While the novel isn’t perfect, I appreciated that it concluded satisfactorily without leaving readers dangling for a sequel. It’s becoming a pet peeve of mine to see books end with cliffhangers just to set up a series. Campbell masterfully wraps up the primary plot threads while leaving enough ambiguity to make the story feel complete yet open-ended.
In conclusion, if you’re in the mood for an adventurous romp through YA horror filled with endearing friendships, a sprinkle of romance, and a vampire who has much to learn about the modern world, The Last Vampire is for you. Its quirks and imperfections ultimately contribute to its charm, making it a delightful surprise in a sea of safe reads. I walked away from this book with a smile, eager to share it with fellow readers. So, if you’re looking for something that’s both funny and a little dark, grab a copy of R. R. Campbell’s The Last Vampire. You won’t regret it!
Discover more about The Last Vampire on GoodReads >>