I’ve never owned or read a companion book to a TV series so I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book. I was pleasantly surprised. But first, I feel I would be remiss if I didn’t talk about my interest in The Vampire Diaries. Like many people I have been caught up in the vampire craze. I suppose I never really left it ever since Buffy and Angel. So when I heard they were making a show based on The Vampire Diaries book series, I went and read all the books before watching the show. Now, normally I am in the camp of “the book is better” but if I’m perfectly honest, in this case I think I like the show better. Not to say the books aren’t good, but I have really enjoyed how the show has expanded the storyline and really brought it to life. I mention all this because I enjoy how Love You to Death gives you the background of the book series and the author. Along with a synopsis of each episode, the author also provides a section drawing parallels and comparisons to the books, which I really liked. Another part of this book I really enjoyed was learning more about the show’s creators and the actors. It gives a detailed background for them, giving readers lots of tidbits they might not have known. For instance, I was shocked that the network had to be convinced on Ian Somerhalder, because to me he is perfect as Damon! I also liked the discussion on why show Elena is a brunette, because I too had trouble getting used to it but am also glad they chose Nina Dobrev, because I like her Elena better than the book Elena.
So, overall, this was a very interesting companion book to the television series. I think hardcore fans who like to collect things about their favorite show will love this, and anyone who is looking for more info will be happy with all the new things they learn from this book. I’m glad I got the chance to read it; it made me realize how much I enjoy the show and how much I’m looking forward to its return this September!
*I won a copy of this book through Goodreads First Reads.