Gothic fantasy meets vampire fiction with a dash of romance in this dark tale of politics, intrigue and nobility. The House of Commarre by Kristen Painter is an epic dark paranormal ride perfect for fans of Anne Rice and a must read after you watch Interview with the Vampire. Keep on reading for our series guide on this finished must read urban fantasy series.
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What to Read After You Watch Interview with the Vampire
Sometimes the lines between paranormal romance and urban fantasy can blend a little. I think that’s one of my favorite things when reading a solid paranormal story. I don’t want a washed out world that seems too cookie cutter just to be overpowered by the romance. Instead, what I want is something to leave me a little breathless thinking about the possibilities of this world really existing. Questioning if there’s an underground society of paranormal activity really going on today. And few series manage to convey that sensory feel.
But one that I think managed to create a world like that is the House of Comarre series by Kristen Painter. While I don’t think each book was perfect in and of itself, and the characters certainly make you want to throttle them at times, the world building is beautifully unique and the story is undoubtedly masterful.
Introducing the House of Comarre by Kristen Painter
How I found it
I don’t see this series around a lot, even when it was first released. I remember being at Comic Con in NY and listening to the author talk about her first book, BLOOD RIGHTS, and it gave me all the kick ass vibes. That, combined with the beautiful cover made me want to read it. And let me tell you, the world building to me lives up to the beautiful cover.
What is the House of Comarre series about?
The House of Comarré series by Kristen Painter is a dark and captivating urban fantasy saga that revolves around Chrysabelle, a Comarré—a race of humans bred for their exceptionally pure blood, who serve as elite courtesans to vampires. Chrysabelle’s life takes a dramatic turn when she is accused of murdering her vampire patron, leading her to team up with various supernatural beings to uncover the truth and protect her kind.
Where is the series set?
The series is set in a detailed urban fantasy world, blending modern cities with hidden supernatural realms. You’ll find yourself in the bustling streets of New Florida, secretive vampire enclaves, and mysterious fae realms. The setting mixes gritty urban landscapes with dark, magical underworlds.
What types of paranormal creatures are in the series?
The House of Comarré series features a diverse cast of paranormal creatures, including:
- Vampires: Powerful, aristocratic, and often dangerous, they form the ruling class in the supernatural hierarchy.
- Comarré: Humans bred for their rare, golden blood, which is highly prized by vampires.
- Shifters: Werewolves and other shapeshifters who possess the ability to transform between human and animal forms.
- Fae: Magical beings with their own intricate politics and power struggles.
- Demons: Dark and often malevolent entities from other realms.
- Witches: Practitioners of magic with various abilities and specialties.
What is the Comarré lore?
Comarré are humans specifically bred and raised for their golden blood, which is considered a delicacy and a source of great power for vampires. They are marked by intricate gold tattoos that signify their status and lineage. Comarré are both revered and enslaved, living under strict codes and servitude until they fulfill their blood contract with their vampire masters.
Who are the main characters?
Chrysabelle: A strong, determined Comarré who escapes her master and seeks freedom while uncovering deeper truths about her heritage.
Mal: A cursed vampire with a dark past, who becomes Chrysabelle’s reluctant ally and protector.
Doc: A shifter and loyal friend to Chrysabelle and Mal, providing support and comic relief.
Fi: A ghost with a mysterious past and unique abilities, adding another layer of intrigue to the group.
Why do we think you should read this after you watch Interview with the Vampire?
If you’ve just wrapped up watching Interview with the Vampire and are itching for more dark, immersive supernatural drama, the House of Comarré series by Kristen Painter is your next must-read.
Like Interview with the Vampire, this series plunges you into the world of complex vampire politics and their tangled lives. Chrysabelle’s journey from blood servant to a powerful force on her own is a thrilling ride, much like Louis and Lestat’s escapades. Plus, the urban fantasy setting, with its hidden vampire societies and juicy politics, keeps the intrigue high and the plot twists rolling.
If you loved the emotional depth and gothic vibes of Interview with the Vampire, you’ll feel right at home here.
Read our interview with author Kristen Painter to learn more about the House of Comarre series. The perfect series to read if you are looking for something with the same vibe after you watch Interview with the Vampire
House of Comarre by Kristen Painter Series Reading Order
The House of Comarre series by Kristen Painter is pretty straight forward when it comes to the reading order. There isn’t a lot of confusion in regards to that. However, it is imperative that you read it in order. This is not a series that you can pick up in the middle. Let’s dive into the order!
Blood Rights by Kristen Painter
Chrysabelle, a Comarré bred for her valuable blood, escapes her vampire master and teams up with the cursed vampire Mal. Together, they navigate a dangerous world filled with supernatural intrigue, uncovering secrets that could change the balance of power among vampires, shifters, and other magical beings.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Blood Rights by Kristen Painter book review
Flesh and Blood by Kristen Painter
Chrysabelle and Mal’s quest continues as they confront new threats from powerful enemies. With the stakes higher than ever, they must protect their newfound allies and unravel the mystery of Chrysabelle’s blood, all while battling their growing attraction to each other.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Flesh and Blood by Kristen Painter book review
Forbidden Blood by Kristen Painter
Set within the House of Comarré universe, this novella explores the backstory of Maris, a former Comarré turned vampire hunter. As she navigates her new life, she uncovers dark secrets and faces old enemies, revealing hidden depths to the world of the Comarré.
Bad Blood by Kristen Painter
As tensions rise, Chrysabelle and Mal face even greater challenges. Their journey takes them deeper into the supernatural underworld, where they must confront dark forces and uncover hidden truths. The line between friend and foe blurs, testing their trust and loyalty.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Bad Blood by Kristen Painter book review
Out for Blood by Kristen Painter
In this gripping installment, Chrysabelle and Mal’s relationship is put to the test. With danger closing in from all sides, they must rely on each other more than ever. As they fight to protect those they love, they discover that the greatest threat might come from within.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Out for Blood by Kristen Painter book review
Last Blood by Kristen Painter
The epic conclusion to the series sees Chrysabelle and Mal facing their final battle. With the fate of the supernatural world hanging in the balance, they must confront their pasts and embrace their destinies. The stakes have never been higher, and the outcome is far from certain.
Grab this book on Amazon or read our Last Blood by Kristen Painter book review
In conclusion, read this after you watch Interview with the Vampire. If you like your paranormal on the edgier side and haven’t read this series, you’re definitely missing out. If you finished your binge watch of Interview with the Vampire, pick this up! The great thing is you can binge read them all because this is a finished series. And let me tell you, it’s one that ends on a high note and leaves you satisfied.
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This post was last updated on October 7 2022
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Oooh these sound good, thanks for the rec Francesca!
I’m one of them, I added these to my TBR list when they came out and STILL haven’t picked them up! I need to fix that.
I’ve had this series on my the list since last year!!! I’m moving it to the top!!!! Awesome romance rewind read Francesca!! Shared on all my socials!!
The covers are gorgeous
Kristen is amazing! I need to finish this series. So good.
Oooh these sound good, thanks for the rec Francesca!
I’m one of them, I added these to my TBR list when they came out and STILL haven’t picked them up! I need to fix that.
I’ve had this series on my the list since last year!!! I’m moving it to the top!!!! Awesome romance rewind read Francesca!! Shared on all my socials!!
The covers are gorgeous
Kristen is amazing! I need to finish this series. So good.
Adding to my wishlist.
Adding to my wishlist.
Definitely I will read this series! 🙂
Definitely I will read this series! 🙂