Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Romantic, Mysterious, Slightly Dark, Adventurous
- Read it if
- You enjoy gothic aesthetics, vampire romance, and stories about finding love outside the ordinary.
- Skip it if
- You prefer complex world-building, high-stakes action, or mature themes in your vampire fiction.
Kissing Coffins Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
A New Face in Dullsville
Raven Madison, a goth in the boring town of Dullsville, finds her life changed by the new student, Alexander Sterling. He has pale skin and avoids sunlight, which immediately draws Raven. Unlike other students who avoid her for her style, Alexander seems to understand her. Their shared interest in dark things, especially the old horror movie 'Kissing Coffins,' creates an instant bond. Raven is drawn to his mysterious nature, and Alexander seems equally interested in her unique spirit, starting an unusual romance.
Unusual Dates and Growing Suspicions
Alexander's behavior remains strange. He only attends school at night, avoids daylight, and has cold skin. Their dates are always after dark, often at cemeteries or late-night horror movies at Raven's house. Raven's friend, Becky, and her parents worry about Alexander's oddities, but Raven ignores them, thinking Alexander is just misunderstood. However, Raven starts to suspect something, fueled by her love for vampire movies and Alexander's clear nocturnal life. She wonders if her boyfriend is more than just a goth.
The Big Reveal
One evening, Alexander takes Raven to his secluded, old mansion, which is always dark and cold. Alexander reveals his secret: he is a vampire. He explains that his family, the Sterlings, are an ancient line of vampires living among humans for centuries. Raven is not scared but thrilled, seeing it as the ultimate romantic fantasy. Alexander warns her of the dangers of their relationship, but Raven is not deterred, embracing the dark romance and eager to explore this new part of her life.
A Glimpse into the Vampire World
Alexander introduces Raven to his family, including his older brother, Jagger, and their strict parents. Raven quickly learns that the Sterling family follows old rules, especially about humans. Jagger immediately distrusts Raven, fearing she could expose their secret. He makes it clear he does not approve of Alexander's relationship with a mortal. Raven, despite Jagger's coldness, is fascinated by the Sterling's old customs and their rich, gothic world, strengthening her commitment to Alexander and their bond.
The Threat of Exposure
Jagger's dislike for Raven grows. He tries to separate her and Alexander, fearing Raven will expose their family. He creates problems and makes veiled threats, trying to convince Alexander to end the relationship. Alexander, however, remains loyal to Raven, defending her against his brother. Raven, though intimidated by Jagger, refuses to give up, determined to prove her loyalty to Alexander and his family, even as tension in the Sterling house rises.
Alexander's Disappearance
One night, Alexander disappears without a trace. Raven is heartbroken and confused, getting no explanation from the Sterling family, who are evasive and cold. Jagger seems unconcerned and suggests Alexander has just left her. Refusing to believe Alexander would abandon her, Raven thinks something bad has happened. She suspects Jagger, believing he forced Alexander to leave or took him away to stop their relationship, starting her search for her lost love.
Leaving Dullsville
Driven by love for Alexander and belief that he is in trouble, Raven decides to leave Dullsville and search for him. She gathers clues and uses her knowledge of vampire stories to guide her. Her journey takes her to dark and mysterious places, far from her hometown. She meets strange people and faces challenges, all while navigating the dangerous vampire world Alexander showed her. Raven's determination is strong, fueled by her belief that Alexander needs her help.
Unexpected Allies and Enemies
During her search, Raven meets other supernatural beings, some allies and some threats. She learns more about the politics and dangers within the vampire world, realizing Alexander's disappearance might be part of a larger plot. She narrowly escapes several dangerous situations, using her wits and limited knowledge. The journey tests her courage, forcing her to face her fears and show her strength in a world far more dangerous than she imagined in Dullsville.
The Truth Revealed
Raven eventually finds the truth behind Alexander's disappearance. Jagger, with the help of some traditional elders, had forcibly taken Alexander to an old vampire stronghold. Their goal was to 'cure' Alexander of his affection for a human and strengthen his loyalty to their family's old ways, preventing him from risking their existence. Raven realizes the danger Alexander is in and the power of the forces against their relationship. Her mission changes from finding Alexander to rescuing him from his own family.
Confrontation and Rescue
With her new knowledge and strong will, Raven enters the old vampire stronghold. She confronts Jagger and the elders, challenging their old beliefs and demanding Alexander's release. A tense moment occurs, testing Raven's strong love and loyalty to Alexander. Through her courage and the unexpected help of a sympathetic vampire, Raven rescues Alexander. Their reunion is emotional, strengthening their bond and showing the power of their love against all odds.
A New Beginning
After the rescue, Raven and Alexander return to Dullsville, their relationship deeper and stronger from what they faced. While dangers of the vampire world remain, they are more determined to make their romance work. Alexander, supported by Raven, stands up to his family, asserting his right to choose his own path. Raven, having shown her courage and loyalty, is now more part of Alexander's world, ready to face future challenges, embracing their dark, romantic future together.
Kissing Coffins Characters
Raven Madison
Protagonist
A goth girl who falls in love with a vampire.
Raven is a seventeen-year-old goth who feels like an outsider in the mundane town of Dullsville. She embraces her unique style, her love for all things dark and macabre, and her passion for horror movies, particularly 'Kissing Coffins.' She is intelligent, observant, and possesses a strong sense of individuality. Despite her outwardly dark aesthetic, she is deeply romantic and fiercely loyal, especially to Alexander. Her initial naivete about the supernatural world quickly transforms into courage and resourcefulness.
Relationships: Alexander Sterling (Boyfriend, her true love and a vampire); Becky (Best friend); Mr. and Mrs. Madison (Parents)
Alexander Sterling
Love Interest
A mysterious and handsome vampire who falls for Raven.
Alexander is a centuries-old vampire, but appears as a handsome, pale, and brooding teenager. He is elegant, cultured, and possesses an air of melancholy. Despite his ancient lineage and the strict traditions of his family, he is drawn to Raven's unconventional spirit and finds solace in her acceptance. He is initially hesitant to reveal his true nature but deeply cares for Raven. He struggles with his family's expectations versus his personal desires, eventually finding the courage to assert his own choices.
Relationships: Raven Madison (Girlfriend, his human love); Jagger Sterling (Older brother, often in conflict); Mr. and Mrs. Sterling (Parents, traditional vampires)
Jagger Sterling
Antagonist
Alexander's traditionalist older brother.
Jagger is Alexander's older brother and a staunch traditionalist within the Sterling vampire family. He is arrogant, controlling, and deeply suspicious of humans, especially Raven. He views Raven as a threat to their family's secrecy and ancient way of life. His primary motivation is to protect his family's lineage and ensure Alexander adheres to their strict rules. He represents the old world and its resistance to change, acting as a significant obstacle to Raven and Alexander's relationship.
Relationships: Alexander Sterling (Younger brother, whom he tries to control); Raven Madison (Perceived threat to his family)
Becky
Supporting
Raven's best friend.
Becky is Raven's best friend and a stark contrast to her gothic style. She is more conventional, outgoing, and practical. While she supports Raven, she is also initially wary of Alexander and his strange habits, often expressing concern for Raven's safety. She provides a grounded perspective and a touch of comic relief, offering a normal human contrast to Raven's increasingly supernatural life. Despite her worries, she remains a loyal friend.
Relationships: Raven Madison (Best friend)
Mr. and Mrs. Madison
Supporting
Raven's well-meaning but oblivious parents.
Raven's parents are typical, somewhat oblivious adults living in Dullsville. They are loving but don't quite understand Raven's gothic sensibilities. They are initially concerned about Alexander's nocturnal habits and his mysterious nature, reflecting the average parent's worries. They provide a humorous contrast to Raven's dark world and serve as a reminder of the mundane life she is trying to escape.
Relationships: Raven Madison (Daughter)
Mr. and Mrs. Sterling
Supporting
Alexander's traditional vampire parents.
Alexander's parents are ancient, traditional vampires who strictly adhere to their family's rules and secrecy. They are stern, aristocratic, and initially disapprove of Alexander's relationship with Raven, seeing it as a dangerous breach of their long-standing customs. They prioritize the survival and secrecy of their lineage above all else, making them formidable figures in the Sterling household, supporting Jagger's efforts to separate Raven and Alexander.
Relationships: Alexander Sterling (Son); Jagger Sterling (Son)
Kissing Coffins Themes
Love Against All Odds
The main theme is the strong, unusual love between Raven, a human goth, and Alexander, a vampire. Their relationship faces many problems, from Raven's human friends and family to Alexander's hostile vampire family. Despite this, Raven's strong loyalty and Alexander's growing courage to defy his family show the strength of their bond. Raven leaving Dullsville to find Alexander shows her commitment to their unique love.
“Maybe love was the only thing that could truly make a person immortal.”
Acceptance and Belonging
Raven, as a goth in Dullsville, always feels like an outsider. Her connection with Alexander gives her a sense of belonging she has never had, as he accepts her unique identity. Alexander finds acceptance for his true self with Raven, as she embraces his vampire nature rather than fearing it. The book explores the wish for a place where one truly belongs, even if that place is within the dark, supernatural world or with an unusual partner. This is clear in Raven's joy at finding someone who understands her love for 'Kissing Coffins' and other dark interests.
“He saw the real me, the me nobody else in Dullsville ever bothered to look for.”
Individuality vs. Tradition
This theme is clear in the conflict between Alexander's wish for a relationship with Raven and his family's old, strict rules. Jagger and the Sterling elders represent centuries of vampire customs, which demand separation from humans and focus on lineage. Alexander's growing love for Raven forces him to choose between upholding these traditions and being himself. Raven, too, shows individuality by not conforming to Dullsville's norms, and then by challenging the vampire world's expectations to be with Alexander.
“Some traditions are meant to be broken, especially when they stand in the way of what's truly important.”
The Allure of the Dark and Mysterious
The novel romanticizes gothic style and the supernatural. Raven is drawn to Alexander because of his dark, mysterious aura and her interest in vampires and horror. Dullsville represents the ordinary, while Alexander and his world offer an escape into a thrilling, dangerous, and romantic reality. The 'Kissing Coffins' movie symbolizes this appeal, with Raven's desire for a love that mirrors the dramatic, dark romances she enjoys. This theme explores how the unknown and forbidden can be very attractive.
“Dullsville was gray, but Alexander was midnight. And midnight was my favorite time.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The 'Kissing Coffins' Movie
A fictional horror movie that mirrors Raven's romantic ideals.
This B-movie serves as a recurring motif and a significant plot device. It's Raven's favorite film, and its melodramatic, dark romance between a human and a vampire directly foreshadows and parallels her own relationship with Alexander. The movie frames Raven's expectations of love and the supernatural, making her more accepting of Alexander's vampirism. It also provides a shared interest that initially bonds Raven and Alexander, and its themes of forbidden love and danger resonate throughout their story, guiding Raven's understanding and acceptance of her extraordinary circumstances.
Dullsville as a Setting
A symbolic, bland town contrasting with the supernatural world.
Dullsville is more than just a location; it's a symbolic representation of the mundane, boring, and conventional world that Raven feels trapped in. Its name directly reflects its nature, emphasizing the contrast with the exciting, dangerous, and romantic world that Alexander introduces her to. This setting highlights Raven's desire for escape and adventure, making the arrival of Alexander even more impactful. It acts as a starting point from which Raven must depart, both physically and metaphorically, to find her true self and her true love, emphasizing the transformative journey she undertakes.
Alexander's Vanishing Act
The catalyst for Raven's journey and character development.
Alexander's sudden and unexplained disappearance serves as the primary inciting incident for the second half of the novel. It transforms Raven from a somewhat passive character, experiencing a new romance, into an active protagonist. This event forces her to leave the safety of Dullsville, confront her fears, and directly engage with the dangerous vampire world. His disappearance is crucial for Raven's character arc, as it tests her loyalty, courage, and resourcefulness, pushing her to prove the depth of her love and her capability to navigate extraordinary circumstances.
Kissing Coffins Quotes
“I was dead and alive at the same time. I was a vampire.”
“Being undead was a lot like being a teenager. You were stuck between two worlds, not quite one, not quite the other.”
“Love, I was learning, was a very messy business. Especially when you were dead.”
“He looked like he'd stepped out of a dream, or maybe a nightmare, depending on your perspective.”
“I was a creature of the night, but I still had homework.”
“Sometimes, the only way to find yourself is to get a little lost.”
“The darkness wasn't always something to be afraid of. Sometimes, it was where you found your true self.”
“Even vampires had feelings. Deep, complicated, annoying feelings.”
“He wasn't just handsome; he was dangerous. And that was exactly what made him so irresistible.”
“My heart, or what was left of it, beat a frantic rhythm.”
“Being different wasn't a curse; it was a superpower.”
“The world was full of secrets, and I was finally starting to uncover some of them.”
“He saw me, truly saw me, for the first time. Not just Raven, but Raven the vampire.”
“Forever was a long time to be alone. But with him, forever might just be perfect.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is the name of the town Raven lives in at the beginning of the story?
- Gloomyville
- Dullsville
- Shadowbrook
- Mopeyburg
Show answer
B. Dullsville Raven lives in the aptly named town of Dullsville, a place she finds incredibly boring and uninspiring.
Question 2
What is the title of Raven's favorite movie, which she references frequently?
- Vampire's Kiss
- Eternal Night
- Kissing Coffins
- Crimson Moonlight
Show answer
C. Kissing Coffins Raven's favorite movie, 'Kissing Coffins,' serves as a reference point for her romantic ideals and understanding of supernatural love.
Question 3
What secret does Alexander Sterling initially guard from Raven?
- He is a werewolf.
- He is a ghost.
- He is a vampire.
- He is a human pretending to be goth.
Show answer
C. He is a vampire. Alexander Sterling's 'big secret' is that he is a vampire, which is a central plot point and source of conflict.
Question 4
What is Raven's characteristic fashion style?
- Preppy and colorful
- Sporty and casual
- Goth and dark
- Bohemian and artistic
Show answer
C. Goth and dark Raven is described as a 'goth-girl,' and her fashion choices reflect this dark and unique style.
Question 5
Why does Raven leave Dullsville during the story?
- To attend a new school.
- To escape her boring parents.
- To search for Alexander after his disappearance.
- To pursue a modeling career.
Show answer
C. To search for Alexander after his disappearance. When Alexander disappears, Raven embarks on a 'dangerous search to find him,' which takes her away from Dullsville.
Question 6
What is Raven's initial perception of love, heavily influenced by her favorite movie?
- It is always simple and straightforward.
- It is often complicated and involves challenges.
- It is primarily about material possessions.
- It is best avoided to prevent heartbreak.
Show answer
B. It is often complicated and involves challenges. The synopsis states, 'Raven knows that love always has its complications,' a theme she embraces from her beloved film.
Question 7
What kind of atmosphere does Raven typically prefer and seek out?
- Bright and cheerful
- Quiet and secluded
- Dark and mysterious
- Bustling and social
Show answer
C. Dark and mysterious As a goth-girl, Raven is drawn to a 'dark world' and finds beauty in the mysterious and shadowy, which is why Alexander appeals to her.
Question 8
What challenge does Raven face in her journey to find Alexander, as hinted by the synopsis?
- Financial difficulties and lack of transportation.
- Navigating unfamiliar cities and getting lost.
- Staying safe from dangerous encounters with unknown entities.
- Convincing her parents to let her leave home.
Show answer
C. Staying safe from dangerous encounters with unknown entities. The synopsis explicitly asks, 'Can she stay safe, no matter who--or what--she encounters on the way?', indicating danger as a key challenge.
Question 9
How does meeting Alexander Sterling initially impact Raven's perception of her own 'dark world'?
- It makes her question her goth identity.
- It makes her feel more isolated than before.
- It gives her world a 'bright, new glow'.
- It causes her to become more cynical about love.
Show answer
C. It gives her world a 'bright, new glow'. The synopsis states, 'goth-girl Raven's dark world has a bright, new glow' after meeting Alexander, indicating a positive, illuminating effect.
Question 10
What is the primary genre classification of 'Kissing Coffins'?
- Historical Fiction
- Contemporary Realistic Fiction
- Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance
- Science Fiction Thriller
Show answer
C. Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance The provided information explicitly states the book's genres are 'Fantasy, Young Adult, Romance'.
Kissing Coffins FAQ
What is the central premise of 'Kissing Coffins'?
The story follows Raven, a goth girl from Dullsville, whose life changes after she meets the mysterious and handsome Alexander Sterling. Their burgeoning romance is complicated by Alexander's hidden secret, leading Raven on a dangerous quest to find him when he suddenly disappears.
Who are the main characters in 'Kissing Coffins'?
The primary protagonists are Raven, a goth enthusiast who feels like an outsider in Dullsville, and Alexander Sterling, a captivating and enigmatic figure with a significant secret. Their relationship forms the core of the narrative.
What kind of setting does 'Kissing Coffins' primarily take place in?
The initial setting is Dullsville, a mundane town that Raven finds stifling due to its lack of gothic charm. However, the story expands as Raven leaves Dullsville to search for Alexander, venturing into more mysterious and potentially dangerous locations.
What is the significance of the movie 'Kissing Coffins' within the book?
The movie 'Kissing Coffins' is Raven's favorite film, and it serves as a recurring motif and source of inspiration for her. Its themes of complicated love and dark romance resonate with her own experiences and expectations, mirroring the challenges she faces with Alexander.
What genre does 'Kissing Coffins' fall under?
The book primarily belongs to the Young Adult (YA) genre, incorporating elements of fantasy and romance. It blends the supernatural with a coming-of-age story, focusing on Raven's personal growth and her extraordinary love interest.
What is Alexander Sterling's 'big secret' that is hinted at in the synopsis?
Alexander Sterling is revealed to be a vampire, a detail that initially complicates his relationship with Raven due to the inherent dangers and differences in their worlds. This secret is central to his mysterious aura and the challenges they face.
How does Raven's goth aesthetic connect with the supernatural elements of the story?
Raven's goth aesthetic, with its appreciation for darkness, mystery, and the macabre, unknowingly prepares her for the supernatural reality she encounters with Alexander. Her preferences make her more open and less fearful of his true nature than a typical protagonist might be.
Are there any other supernatural beings introduced besides Alexander?
Yes, the narrative introduces a community of vampires, including Alexander's family and other figures, expanding the supernatural world beyond just him. These characters play a role in Alexander's disappearance and Raven's subsequent search.
How does Raven's perception of love evolve throughout her journey to find Alexander?
Raven's initial romantic ideals, heavily influenced by her favorite movie, are tested and deepened as she confronts real dangers and sacrifices for Alexander. She learns that love involves more than just dark romance; it requires courage, resilience, and acceptance of profound differences.
What psychological impact does feeling like an 'outsider' in Dullsville have on Raven?
Feeling like an outsider in Dullsville fosters Raven's strong sense of individuality and her attraction to anything dark or mysterious, including Alexander. This alienation makes her more receptive to his unusual nature and less bound by conventional societal norms when pursuing him.
How does Alexander's secret affect his psychological state and interactions with Raven?
Alexander's secret creates a constant internal conflict between his desire for Raven and his need to protect her from his dangerous world, leading to periods of withdrawal and secrecy. He struggles with the ethics of involving her in his immortal life, which influences his decisions and behavior.
What role does fear play in the characters' decisions and development?
Fear acts as both a barrier and a motivator. Raven's fear for Alexander's safety drives her dangerous search, while Alexander's fear of harming Raven influences his initial distance and eventual disappearance. Overcoming these fears is crucial for their relationship's progression.
Is 'Kissing Coffins' merely a romance, or does it explore deeper themes?
While romance is central, the book delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the allure of the unconventional. It explores how finding love can challenge one's perceptions of self and the world, pushing characters beyond their comfort zones.
How does the book challenge or reinforce traditional gothic tropes?
The book embraces many gothic tropes, such as the mysterious romantic hero and the dark aesthetic, but it also modernizes them through Raven's contemporary goth perspective. It attempts to make the supernatural relatable and romantic rather than purely terrifying, appealing to a YA audience.
What message might the author be conveying about individuality through Raven's character?
The author seems to convey a message that embracing one's unique identity, even if it sets you apart, can lead to finding true connection and belonging. Raven's unwavering commitment to her goth style ultimately allows her to connect with Alexander and his world authentically.
Could Alexander's disappearance be interpreted as a test of Raven's commitment?
Alexander's disappearance certainly functions as a test, forcing Raven to prove the depth of her feelings and her courage. It pushes her to actively pursue their relationship, moving beyond passive admiration to take significant risks for him, solidifying her commitment.
How does the 'Dullsville' setting contrast with the supernatural world Raven discovers?
Dullsville represents the mundane, the ordinary life Raven rejects, highlighting her longing for something more. The supernatural world she discovers with Alexander offers the excitement, mystery, and depth she craves, providing a stark contrast to her previous, uninspired existence.
About the author
Ellen Schreiber is an author known for her young adult fiction, particularly in the supernatural genre. Her notable works include "Kissing Coffins," "The Coffin Club," "Dance with a Vampire," and "Royal Blood," which explore themes of romance and the paranormal. Schreiber's writing often appeals to fans of vampire lore and gothic storytelling.
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