"Kissing Coffins" Summary

Introduction

Imagine you’re a goth teen obsessed with vampires, living in a town so ordinary it makes beige look wild. Now, add a dash of forbidden romance, a sprinkle of mystery, and a hefty scoop of humor. Welcome to Kissing Coffins by Ellen Schreiber—a fast-paced, darkly funny YA novel that will make you laugh, swoon, and shiver all at once. This is the second book in Schreiber’s Vampire Kisses series, and it has become a cult favorite among high school and college readers. Why? Because it’s a vampire story that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but still delivers emotional punch and gothic delights.

Historical Context

Set in the early 2000s, Kissing Coffins reflects the era’s fascination with supernatural romance, predating the mainstream vampire craze sparked by Twilight. The novel taps into the “outsider” narrative popular in teen fiction, but with a twist: its protagonist, Raven Madison, wants to be different, and she’s proud of it. Schreiber’s work emerged alongside a wave of paranormal YA, but its humor and self-awareness set it apart from more earnest competitors. The book also lightly references the goth subculture, which saw a resurgence in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, giving it an authentic, yet playful edge.

Brief Synopsis

Plot Overview

Kissing Coffins picks up right where Vampire Kisses left off. Raven Madison, the only goth girl in the sleepy town of Dullsville, is reeling from the sudden disappearance of her vampire boyfriend, Alexander Sterling. Determined to find him, she embarks on a journey that takes her out of her comfort zone—and into the heart of the vampire world. Along the way, Raven encounters new friends, dangerous foes, and tough choices that force her to confront what she truly wants.

Setting

The story unfolds in the fictional town of Dullsville, a place so unremarkable that Raven’s gothic attire turns heads wherever she goes. Schreiber paints Dullsville as the ultimate small town—safe, predictable, and a little bit stifling—making it the perfect backdrop for Raven’s gothic adventures. As Raven searches for Alexander, the action shifts to a mysterious neighboring town called Hipsterville, which boasts a vibrant subculture and plenty of secrets. The contrast between Dullsville’s plainness and Hipsterville’s edginess underscores Raven’s journey of self-discovery.

Main Characters

Here’s a quick reference table to the key players in Kissing Coffins:

Plot Summary

Let’s break down the plot into easily digestible sections, so you can follow along without worrying about spoilers ruining the fun.

The Search Begins

Raven is devastated when Alexander disappears without a trace. She’s determined to find him, convinced that love should conquer all—even the undead. Armed with little more than her black lipstick, a cryptic note, and a fierce sense of purpose, Raven sets out for Hipsterville, rumored to be Alexander’s last known location. Her best friend Becky tries to talk her out of it, but Raven’s mind is made up.

Hipsterville’s Secrets

Upon arrival in Hipsterville, Raven is both thrilled and intimidated. The town is buzzing with goth clubs, underground art scenes, and people who finally look as weird as she feels. But Alexander is nowhere to be found. Instead, Raven encounters Jagger Maxwell, a dangerously charming new vampire who claims to know Alexander—and who seems to have his own agenda.

Friend or Foe?

Jagger’s presence is unsettling. He’s handsome, hypnotic, and just a little bit sinister. He hints at a long-standing feud with Alexander, but refuses to spill the details. Raven must decide whether to trust him or follow her instincts and keep her distance. Meanwhile, strange things start happening: cryptic messages, warnings to leave town, and glimpses of Alexander in the shadows.

Reunions and Revelations

Raven’s determination pays off when she finally reunites with Alexander. Their reunion is bittersweet: Alexander is happy to see her, but insists she’s in danger. He reveals more about his own past—and Jagger’s. As the pieces fall into place, Raven realizes that the world of vampires is more complicated (and dangerous) than she ever imagined.

The Showdown

The climax builds to a tense confrontation between Raven, Alexander, and Jagger. Old grudges resurface, and Raven is forced to make difficult choices about love, loyalty, and her own future. Without giving away too much, let’s just say that the ending leaves plenty of room for sequels—and even more gothic adventures.

Themes and Motifs

Ellen Schreiber packs Kissing Coffins with themes that resonate with college students, high schoolers, and anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider. Here are some of the most important:

• Identity and Belonging: Raven’s struggle to reconcile her gothic identity with the expectations of her community is universal. The book explores the desire to fit in—and the courage to stand out.
• Love vs. Danger: The romance between Raven and Alexander is fraught with risk. Their relationship raises questions about trust, sacrifice, and the boundaries of love.
• Friendship and Loyalty: Raven’s friendship with Becky, and her loyalty to Alexander, are tested throughout the story. Schreiber highlights the importance of having people who support you—even when they don’t understand you.
• The Lure of the Unknown: Raven’s journey is a metaphor for the pull of the mysterious and the supernatural. The book celebrates curiosity and the willingness to take risks.
• Humor as Survival: Despite the dark subject matter, Schreiber uses humor to diffuse tension and keep the story lighthearted. Raven’s sarcastic wit is her secret weapon.

Literary Techniques and Style

Ellen Schreiber’s style is breezy, witty, and highly accessible—perfect for readers looking for an escape from dry academic texts. Let’s break down her most notable techniques:

• First-Person Narrative: The story is told entirely from Raven’s perspective, giving readers direct access to her thoughts, fears, and fantasies. This makes the book feel intimate and immediate.
• Conversational Tone: Schreiber’s prose is informal, peppered with slang and pop culture references. It feels like listening to your best friend telling you a wild story.
• Vivid Descriptions: The author’s descriptions of Dullsville and Hipsterville are colorful and evocative, painting a contrast between monotony and excitement.
• Humor and Irony: Even in the face of danger, Raven’s inner monologue is full of sarcastic asides and clever observations.
• Pacing: The plot moves quickly, with cliffhangers at the end of most chapters. This keeps readers turning pages and hungry for more.

Author’s Background

Ellen Schreiber is an American author known for her witty, fast-paced novels aimed at young adults. Before turning to writing, Schreiber was a stand-up comedian and actress—a background that shines through in her comedic timing and sharp dialogue. Her Vampire Kisses series, launched in 2003, quickly gained a devoted following for its blend of humor, romance, and gothic flair.

Schreiber’s own experiences as a “misfit” inform Raven’s character, lending the story authenticity. She has cited classic horror films, gothic literature, and the vampire mythos as influences. Beyond Vampire Kisses, Schreiber has written the Once in a Full Moon series, further cementing her reputation as a queen of quirky paranormal fiction.

Author’s Impact and Legacy

While Ellen Schreiber may not be as widely known as Stephenie Meyer or Anne Rice, her books have played a significant role in popularizing the lighthearted, comedic side of vampire fiction. Her work resonates with readers who crave romance and adventure, but with a wink and a nod to the absurdities of teen life.

Key Takeaways

• Kissing Coffins is a witty, fast-paced vampire romance perfect for fans of paranormal YA.
• The book explores themes of identity, love, and the thrill of the unknown.
• Schreiber’s humor and conversational style make the novel highly readable and relatable.
• The story celebrates outsiders, risk-takers, and anyone brave enough to chase what they want.
• The plot is packed with surprises, but avoids the melodrama common in other vampire romances.

Reader’s Takeaway

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t quite fit in—or if you’ve ever wished for a little more magic in your everyday life—Kissing Coffins is your literary soulmate. The book offers a unique blend of humor, heart, and suspense, reminding readers that it’s okay to be different, and that love (whether human or vampire) is always worth fighting for. Expect to laugh, swoon, and maybe even wish you owned a little more black clothing by the end.

Conclusion

Kissing Coffins by Ellen Schreiber is a delightful romp through the world of gothic romance, packed with memorable characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and genuine emotional depth. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves supernatural stories with a sense of humor and a big heart. Whether you’re a college student looking for a fun escape or a lecturer seeking insight into the evolution of YA paranormal fiction, this book delivers. So go ahead—take a bite. You won’t regret it.