logo

54 pages 1 hour read

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Grady Hendrix

The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

424

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Charleston, South Carolina • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix follows Patricia Campbell, a Southern housewife whose life is disrupted by the arrival of James Harris, a charming vampire who preys on the neighborhood's children. Patricia and her book club friends unravel his sinister secrets and unite to protect their community. Addresses issues of mental health and violence against minors.

Mysterious

Suspenseful

Dark

Emotional

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.0

262,499 ratings

68%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Grady Hendrix's The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires blends horror with Southern charm, earning praise for its suspenseful plot and vivid characterizations. Critics commend the book's engaging portrayal of 1990s suburban life, though some cite pacing issues and a heavier reliance on gore. Overall, it offers an entertaining, albeit grisly, modern horror tale.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires?

Readers who enjoy The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix are typically fans of horror, Southern gothic, and dark humor. The book appeals to those who loved Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg and Salem's Lot by Stephen King, blending heartwarming community tales with supernatural thrills.

4.0

262,499 ratings

68%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Character List

Patricia Campbell

A protagonist who starts from a place of selflessness and grows to seek personal fulfillment beyond her roles as a wife and mother. She uses her medical skills and bravery to drive the story forward.

A charismatic figure who ingratiates himself into the community with the facade of a charming neighbor. He is central to the conflict as a con man whose true nature reveals a sinister agenda.

The daughter of Patricia who is popular and sporty. Her relationship with her family evolves as she faces serious challenges during the narrative.

Patricia’s intelligent and anxious son, whose struggles are exacerbated by the family’s domestic instability. His curiosity about dark historical themes is a notable part of his character.

Patricia’s husband, a psychiatrist who is depicted as both supportive and flawed. He embodies conflict through his mixed intentions and personal failings.

A devout Christian and member of the book club, who weighs her decisions against her beliefs. Her loyalty is reflected in her support for her friends.

A quintessential Southern housewife known for her keen observations and attention to detail. Her story highlights themes of patriarchal oppression.

An artsy and unconventional Southern housewife, characterized by her courage and loyalty to her friends. Her friendship with Patricia is crucial to her development.

A Northern transplant adjusting to the Southern community, who provides insight into themes of accountability and evasion of responsibility.

Patricia’s mother-in-law with dementia, whose past wisdom becomes important in the unfolding drama. She plays a key role in unveiling hidden truths.

The lead representing the Black community of Six Mile, who is a protective force for her community and her collaboration with Patricia is pivotal in the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

424

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Charleston, South Carolina • 1990s

Theme
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.