Modern Supernaturals

Women of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong Book 1, Bitten @VPL | WorldCat

In the Women of the Otherworld series, werewolves, witches, and half-demons live in secret among humans. Every book features strong, relatable women that deal with real life issues like mastering new spells and learning to compromise in a relationship. Full of irresistible characters, the books are fast-paced and full of plot twists that will keep you reading to the last page.

The series share supernaturals that live two lives, one in a world of magic and the other in our world practical, mundane events.

American Gods by Neil Gaiman, audiobook read by a full cast @VPL | WorldCat

The quiet, contemplative Shadow is released from prison when his wife dies and he meets a strangely determined man who goes by Wednesday who offers him employment. Shadow soon finds himself meeting spiritual forces that come from all places and times. The novel has won numerous awards and the audiobook of this compelling, atmospheric story is a wonderful treat, read by a full cast of voice actors to give every character their own voice. Now a tv series!

American Gods and the All Souls Trilogy both connect directly to deities and powers as they exist in modern days. Diana navigates a complicated relationship with the Goddess and we also see Philippe's practiced blend of ancient and modern rituals to honour the old ways and embrace the new.

Being Human (BBC UK Series) Season 1 @VPL | WorldCat

The series starts when a vampire and a werewolf rent a flat that is haunted by a ghost. Dry, British wit makes this seemingly absurd premise shine. The show flips between humour and horror seamlessly as the compelling, character-driven show forces us to face supernatural racism and leads us into the dark politics of vampires, the grisly reality of werewolves, and the otherworldly purgatory of being a ghost.

While the tone is different than the All Souls Trilogy, Being Human offers a similarly close-knit, unlikely cast that comes together against impossible odds to fight ancient prejudices and politics that mask an evil agenda.

xxxHolic and xxxHolic Rei by CLAMP (Manga) Volume 1 @VPL | WorldCat

Watanuki is a regular, clumsy teenager except for the fact that deadly spirits are attracted to him. He soon meets Yuko, a beautiful, strange witch who owns a shop that grants wishes. She claims that she can prevent the spirits from finding him and all he has to do is work for her. So begins this eerie, haunting, sometimes humorous story that weaves Japanese spirits into the everyday struggles of young love and life. This character-driven Japanese manga features beautiful, intricate illustrations by CLAMP, the renowned artists.

Like Diana, Watanuki is forced to face powers he never wanted. He lives with the never-ending heartache of lost loved ones, but must come to trust the least likely people to stay alive.

The Rook by Daniel O'Malley @VPL | WorldCat

Myfanwy Thomas wakes up without a memory of her life... or why she’s surrounded by dead bodies. In her pocket, she finds a letter from her former self and finds out the former Myfanwy Thomas was a high-powered administrator in Her Majesty’s Supernatural Secret Service, The Chequy. Unfortunately, one of her associates tried to kill her and they'll probably try again. In this fast-paced, character-driven page turner, Myfanwy must remaster her own power, stop a supernatural war, prevent her own murder (again, sort of) and make sure no one realizes she's not exactly who they think. Winner of Aurealis Awards for Best Science Fiction Novel.

Both stories are unique mysteries with a diverse, relatable cast. Myfanwy and Diana must learn to control a growing power no one can understand as they fight for survival. Also, I feel Myfanwy and Miriam Shephard would be fast friends.

Let the Right One In Book by John Ajvide Lindqvist, translated by Ebba Segerberg @VPL | WorldCat

A strange murder takes place, leaving the victim drained of blood. Oskar, a regular twelve year old boy, can't help but be curious about the murder. Shortly after, he meets his new neighbour - the strange, young Eli that only comes out at night. This richly detailed story is a bleak, compelling tale of murders that leave the living forever changed by shock and fear. Also a movie @VPL | WorldCat

Like many vampire stories, turning children is strictly forbidden by vampire law in Deborah Harkness' world. Let the Right One In is perfect example of why that rule exists.