The Vampire’s Violin is a standalone novel by Michael Romkey, who writes the I, Vampire series. This book is an incredible and highly original homage to violins.
The year is 1744. A blind violin maker named Archangelo Serafino has the ability to make violins that sound so beautiful they are coveted by vampires and humans everywhere. For instance, a Welsh vampire and violinist named Dylan Glyndwr is obsessed with the “Angel” violins, and will do anything to get his hands on one.
Hundreds of years later in present day, Dylan is still searching for an Angel violin. One day, Maggie O’Hara, a college student in Iowa, inherits her grandfather’s Angel violin. Apparently, it came into his possession during World War II, and he’s been holding onto it ever since. Dylan learns of this news, and pursues Maggie to get his hands on the violin.
The Vampire’s Violin is not at all scary. It truly is an homage to violins, and to classical music and the orchestra.
Also, it turns out the Angel violin holds no magical or supernatural powers. The violins are made so perfectly—they simply evoke confidence in the people who play them, because they just sound so beautiful. I don’t think vampires necessarily needed to be included in the story, but maybe that’s where the author feels comfortable. Either way, The Vampire’s Violin is incredibly unique, and a great read.
Have you ever seen or heard of the movie The Red Violin (1998)? It offers a similar concept. It’s an anthology drama that follows the life of a particular violin over four centuries. It’s worth watching at least one time.
Michael Romkey writes the I, Vampire series—here are the first few books:
- #1 – I, Vampire (1990)
- #2 – The Vampire Papers (1994)
- #3 – The Vampire Princess (1995)
What did you think about The Vampire’s Violin? Have you read anything else by this author?
Last Updated on February 23, 2026 by Sarah Ann
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