Vampirates by Justin Somper is a young adult fantasy series that combines two unlikely genres—vampires and pirates—into a single, fast-paced seafaring adventure. The story centers on twins Connor and Grace Tempest, who are separated during a violent storm at sea. Each is rescued by a very different ship—one traditional, the other supernatural.
And on one of these ships sails a crew of Vampirates: vampire pirates aboard the mysterious ship Nocturne.
Why I Picked Up Vampirates by Justin Somper
As someone who enjoys both vampire lore and pirate stories, I was immediately intrigued by the concept. The idea of fusing two wildly different mythologies into one series felt bold and original. I wanted to see how Justin Somper would pull it off—and whether the story would strike the right balance between high-seas adventure and dark fantasy.
Why I Kept Reading Vampirates
I’ll tell you a tale of the Vampirates; a tale as old as true…
(Be honest—you read that in a pirate-y voice, didn’t you?)
From the start, the narrative’s pacing is brisk. Chapters often end on cliffhangers, making it hard to put the book down. While some of the plot twists felt predictable or lacked the weight I was hoping for, Somper sprinkles in enough mystery and tension to keep things moving. He does a good job of building an eerie, otherworldly tone around the Vampirates without diving into horror territory.
Why I’ll Keep Reading the Vampirates Series
Though I sometimes wished for more intense action or deeper exploration of certain events, the overall premise remains exciting. There’s a strong nostalgic pull to the series—it’s the kind of YA adventure that evokes the thrill of discovering books as a younger reader. And that sense of wonder is what keeps me invested.
I want to know what happens next with Connor and Grace, how the two worlds they’re part of evolve, and what secrets the Nocturne still holds. For now, I’m on board for the ride.
Final Thoughts on Vampirates by Justin Somper
Vampirates by Justin Somper is far from your average YA fantasy. It’s imaginative, action-packed, and anchored by a clever concept that merges the undead with maritime lore. While it may not be perfect, it’s undeniably fun—and for many readers, that’s more than enough.
If you’re drawn to genre mashups, enjoy quick reads, or just want a break from typical fantasy tropes, this series is worth checking out.
About Me
I’m JP B. Bantigue, CLSSBB—a writer and lifelong reader who finds joy in stories that combine unlikely genres and spark curiosity. Whether it’s vampire pirates or futuristic elves, I love YA books that surprise and entertain.
