Happy Monday! It’s time for Did you know.
Did you know there’s a StokerVerse? Writers Chris McAuley and Dacre Stoker, the great-grand-nephew of Dracula author Bram Stoker, have teamed up with select artists to create the StokerVerse series of short graphic novels. “Set in the universe of Dracula and other terrors synonymous with the famous name, the StokerVerse promises to give fans a large slice of gothic horror with a modern twist; it is a place where not even the heroes know exactly what is lurking out there in the dark.”
The August 2021 issue of House of Stitched Magazine included a feature piece and review of The Virgin’s Embrace (StokerVerse Novel #1).
The Virgin’s Embrace is the first in the StokerVerse series of short graphic novels, conceptualised and brought to life by writers Chris McAuley and Dacre Stoker, the great-grand-nephew of Dracula author Bram Stoker. Illustrated by respected artists Jessica Martin, Robert Marzullo and Ester Cardella, the storyline is based around one of Bram Stoker’s short stories, respectfully updated from the 1893 original for a modern audience. In addition to the re-telling of the story in graphic novel form, this black & white fan’s edition paperback also contains additional content including short biographies of both Bram and Florence Stoker, the original text of the story as it was when first published, concept artwork and more.
The Virgin’s Embrace includes the original short story, Bram Stoker’s “The Squaw,” biographies, notes from Stoker and McAuley, notes and concept art from artist Jessica Martin, and additional artwork from Robert Marzullo and Ester Cardella.
From the review: “This is more than a graphic novel, more than a retelling, it is a study in and a tribute to Bram Stoker’s ‘The Squaw.’”
Now, StokerVerse Novel #2 is out: Dracula’s Bedlam.
Dracula’s Bedlam is the second novel in the StokerVerse series, conceptualised and brought to life by writers Chris McAuley and Dacre Stoker, the great-grandnephew of Dracula author Bram Stoker. Guest writer John Peel also contributes to this excellent addition to the series. It is a mixed media presentation with both story content and graphic novel elements from Frederick B. Roseman, along with an introduction from author of the Horror series Deadknobs and Doomsticks and much-loved UK personality Joe Pasquale.
Is there a place more enthralling than that of the Asylum? The insane lurk in the shadows with gibbering mouths and twisted minds…
Dr. Seward’s asylum is particularly interesting; a serial killer has his mind peeled back, a mysterious nurse walks the halls with a sweet smile and devious mind… and, of course, there’s the enigmatic Mr. Renfield…
Set between the cracks of the original Dracula novel, the StokerVerse series hopes to shed a little light into the dark areas which were not wholly explored by author Bram Stoker. Familiar figures from Dracula and original characters created specifically for the StokerVerse appear in these dark and twisted tales.
Dracula’s Bedlam is the perfect read for a dark Halloween night… if you dare!
This volume includes the original story “Dracula’s Guest” by Bram Stoker. We don’t have a review on this one yet, but we hope to soon.
Both StokerVerse novels are available on Amazon in Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback.
Stitched Smile Publications 