: Set in the fictional town of Fell's Church, Virginia , high school "queen bee" Elena Gilbert becomes obsessed with a mysterious new Italian student, Stefan Salvatore.
: A series of violent attacks plague the town, including the murder of history teacher Mr. Tanner. Suspicion falls on Stefan, while Elena believes Damon is the true culprit.
: Elena eventually discovers Stefan is a centuries-old vampire who has come to town seeking a peaceful life. LJ Smith: Vampire Diaries 01 - The Awakening
: Stefan's dangerous older brother, Damon, follows him to Fell's Church. Damon revels in his vampiric nature and seeks revenge against Stefan, using Elena—who bears a striking resemblance to their past love, Katherine—as a pawn.
Pragmatic, calm, and loyal (not present in early TV seasons). Elena's rival Competition for popularity; becomes antagonistic. Notable Book vs. TV Show Differences : Set in the fictional town of Fell's
Haunted by his past and struggling to live without harming humans. Antagonist; Stefan’s older brother Charismatic, dangerous, and manipulative. Bonnie McCullough Elena's best friend A psychic with red hair (unlike the TV show counterpart). Meredith Sulez Elena's best friend
If you are coming to the book from the CW television series, there are several major differences: Suspicion falls on Stefan, while Elena believes Damon
: The book concludes with Stefan missing and Elena desperate to find him, leading directly into the second book, The Struggle . Key Characters Role & Personality Key Traits in the Book Elena Gilbert Protagonist; High school senior Beautiful, popular, and initially self-centered. Stefan Salvatore Brooding Vampire; Love interest