Books I’d recommend to Buffy the Vampire Slayer characters

Ever wondered what your favorite characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer might be reading in their downtime (or am I the only one who thinks this way)? I love giving book recommendations so here’s a list of books I’d recommend to some of the Scooby Gang (and beyond):

Buffy Summers

Rebel Bells by Rachel Hawkins

Buffy would love the mix of supernatural elements, high school drama, and beauty pagents in Rebel Belle. A strong, intelligent, and gorgeous female protagonist? Check. Steamy supernatural love interests? Check. Themes of resilience and courage? What more could Buffy Summers ask for?

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

You know, I bet Buffy would love Katniss Everdeen. She’d definitely relate to her fierce determination and sense of duty. The dystopian setting and the fight for survival mirror her own battles against the forces of darkness. Even though Peeta isn’t Buffy’s type, you know she’d be yearning for them to live happily ever after.

Willow Rosenberg

The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow

Willow would pick this one up in a heartbeat. The Once and Future Witches tells the story of three sisters who use witchcraft to fight for women’s rights. With its blend of historical context and magical realism, it’s a perfect fit for Willow’s interests in both social justice and the supernatural.

Say I Boo by Morgan Spellman

On a more fun and whimsical side, with its blend of mystery, supernatural elements, and queer representation, I bet Willow would find this heartwarming ghost mystery book enthralling. The protagonist’s journey mirrors her own growth and self-acceptance. Plus, Willow wouldn’t pass up the change to read about a Jewish lesbian who can talk to ghosts.

Angel

Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

I had to mention it. Do you know how many times I’ve heard Angel compared to Lestat? He’d probably act like he hated it, but secretly I think he’d appreciate this introspective and darkly beautiful exploration of vampirism. The themes of redemption, immortality, and inner conflict could resonate deeply with his own struggles.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

I mean, come on, as a vampire, wouldn’t Angel would find this classic tale intriguing? If the gothic atmosphere and the moral complexities didn’t draw him in, he’d at least be interested in what the most popular book about Vampire’s has made mortals believe about his kind.

Rupert Giles

The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss

For some reason, I see Giles as a fantasy guy. Maybe it’s the bookish librarian vibes, or the fact that he has a rebellious side that loves to see good triumph in unusual ways. Either way, I think he’d appreciate this beloved fantasy novel, with its intricate world-building, lyrical writing, and deep character development. If only he doesn’t mind the series remaining unfinished!

Theft of Swords by Michael J. Sullivan

Giles would really get into this one. It’s got a pair of thieves who find themselves in way over their heads with political intrigue and ancient secrets. The blend of action, adventure, and rich world-building would be right up his alley.

Cordelia Chase

American Royals by Katharine McGee

Cordelia would love this one. A re-imagination of America with a royal family, full of drama, romance, and glitz! It's like a modern day Bridgerton. It would totally remind Cordelia of her high school days but on a whole new level of fabulous. I bet she’d be only a tiny bit jealous of the royal balls…

The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling

This would be such a fun read for Cordelia. A light-hearted, witchy rom-com with lots of charm and a bit of magic mischief? She’d be totally enchanted by it (and looking for her own Rhys Penhallow).

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What books would you recommend to Buffy and her friends (and frienemies)? Let me know if you’d like to see more recommendations like this.