Everyone has their favorite vampire mythos, but one thing that's generally considered true of these bloodsucking creatures of the night is that they're compelling. They're also -- at least for some people -- wildly attractive. Similar to the appeal of werewolves and other monsters, vampires have a lure that can't be denied, which makes them a perfect subject for exploration in fictional media -- including, of course, webcomics.
From two boys who band together after discovering -- rather violently -- that monsters are real, to a gothic horror/lesbian romance set in New York City in 1908, to a friendship story between a college student and a vampire, the free-to-read webcomics below have a little something for everyone.
Read on for this weekend's webcomics recommendations.
Lies Within by Lacey Brannen
When Lysander is attacked by a home invader one night in his kitchen, his next door neighbor, Simon, attempts to save his life. In the process, Simon exposes Lysander to a deadly secret: Monsters are real and they are walking among humanity. In fact, Simon -- boring, only-wants-to-help-people Simon -- is a monster, too. Lysander can't help but be intrigued by this turn of events.
Lacey Brannen's Lies Within is a horror story with a modern twist, that explores the concepts of monsters, bravery, loyalty, relationships, intimacy and more. Illustrated in monochrome (with occasional splashes of red), the art has a distinctly "classic horror" vibe and Brannen's line work is sharp. Likewise, the writing is well-paced and the dialogue is on point (no pun intended). Currently in its second chapter, Lies Within will pull readers in and keep them coming back for more.
Available on lieswithincomic.com, updates twice weekly
Obelisk by Ashley McCammon
Following her father's death, Evelyn Reuter takes over the family business -- and quickly begins to uncover secrets she had no idea he was hiding. The trail he leaves behind leads her to Margot, a mysterious shopkeeper whose humanity is... questionable, to say the least.
Ashley McCammon's Obelisk harkens back to black and white monster movies as it presents a stunning, queer period piece worth sinking your teeth into. Evelyn and Margot are intricate, deeply complex characters and McCammon's art and writing are delightful. This comic is currently on hiatus, but there are nearly 100 pages of story available so far -- and catching up is totally worth it. Patreon supporters can also check out new pages now, while Obelisk is on public hiatus.
Available on obeliskcomic.com, on hiatus
Those Who Sleep by Kelley Harris
On the first day of her freshman year in college, Willa Yoshimoto makes a deeply disturbing discovery -- and it sends her and her best friend, a vampire named Drac, on an unexpected journey to unravel the mystery behind it, as well as how it connects to both of them.
Kelley Harris's Those Who Sleep is a wild ride right from the jump, with colorful, boisterous art that absolutely exudes joy and characters whose relationships are as beautifully put together as the mystery surrounding them. Too often, vampire stories are dark and brooding, but Those Who Sleep leans into the light, to incredible effect.
Available on Webtoon, updates every other Thursday