The First Vampire by Andrew Dennis Biersack

The First Vampire is scheduled to ship from Rare Bird late March 2025, with subsequent quarterly releases approximately every three months thereafter, 

Internationally acclaimed musician and cultural icon Andy Biersack has announced the launch of his new publishing imprint, Knives and Pens Publishing, in partnership with celebrated independent publishing house, Rare Bird. This venture aims to redefine the landscape of horror fiction by blending the genre’s golden-era nostalgia with a fresh and modern approach to storytelling.

Knives and Pens is dedicated to bringing back the spine-chilling tales of the past with a contemporary twist. The imprint focuses on high-quality, horror-themed novellas that breathe new life into public domain stories and characters, as well as introducing original narratives, and each book is crafted with exceptional artwork to enhance the storytelling experience. The imprint’s mission is to captivate horror enthusiasts and collectors alike by producing beautifully designed, collectible books that stand out in today’s competitive market.

New titles are anticipated to be released every quarter, and all titles for 2025 are now available for pre-order. The premier release, The First Vampire, is available for pre-order in both paperback and signed paperback editions, and will be available in all major retailers in late April 2025.

The First Vampire

Wallachia, 15th century: Vlad the Impaler’s battle against the Ottoman Empire gives rise to a horror beyond imagination. The First Vampire reveals the shocking origin of vampirism, born from a blood plague that transforms the battlefield into a breeding ground for the undead. Through the eyes of Vlad’s eldest son, Andrea, the novella explores the clash between dark magic, loyalty, and an ancient curse that will haunt humanity for generations. This chilling reimagining of Dracula’s origins bridges historical fiction with gothic terror, redefining the boundaries of historical horror for a new generation.

BLEEDERS: The Terrible Tale of Sweeney Todd

In the shadowy alleys of Fleet Street, BLEEDERS: The Terrible Tale of Sweeney Todd reimagines the infamous barber’s story as a gothic revenge thriller. Falsely accused and orphaned by a corrupt system, Sweeney Todd sharpens his razors for a bloody crusade against those who destroyed his life. Partnering with Mrs. Lovett, a tannery owner with her own thirst for vengeance, his victims become both his justice and the source of a macabre leather trade that reflects the city’s moral decay. A chilling exploration of trauma, corruption, and the cost of vengeance, BLEEDERS is perfect for fans of gothic horror and revenge-driven tales.

REVENGER

In a city suffocated by corruption, REVENGER tells the story of a nameless figure who bends shadows and punishes the unforgivable. As The Revenger dismantles a sprawling criminal empire known as The Syndicate, he uncovers a web of betrayal that reaches into his own fractured past. Blending the gritty aesthetic of noir with the visceral terror of vengeance, REVENGER explores guilt, corruption, and the thin line between hero and monster. This relentless and chilling addition to the Horror Noir genre will captivate fans of dark thrillers.

BLACK MADONNA

Set in the shadowy underbelly of 1950s Hollywood, BLACK MADONNA follows Lana Vesper, an iconic horror hostess bound to an ancient and malevolent deity, and Evan Cross, a rebellious actor drawn into the occult secrets of Tinseltown. As their bond deepens, Lana’s curse threatens to destroy them both, while Evan’s search for answers leads him into forbidden rituals and dark conspiracies. A chilling blend of forbidden love, fame, and supernatural terror, BLACK MADONNA is a haunting gothic thriller perfect for fans of dark and atmospheric tales.

About Knives and Pens Publishing:
Knives and Pens Publishing is committed to crafting immersive, atmospheric, and collectible editions for horror enthusiasts. Each novella in the imprint’s catalog features reimagined public domain stories and wholly original tales, enhanced by striking artwork and innovative design. Through immersive storytelling and exceptional craftsmanship, the imprint strives to create an indelible mark on the horror genre and deliver a tactile experience that resonates deeply with fans and collectors alike.

Rare Bird is an independent publishing house known for its bold, cutting-edge titles that challenge conventions, and captivate readers. Their partnership with Knives and Pens Publishing represents their shared commitment to producing exceptional books that resonate with niche and mainstream audiences alike.

Knives and Pens isn’t merely reviving horror’s golden age; it is crafting a new era of spine-chilling tales that leave an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of horror fans everywhere. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Knives and Pens Publishing invites you to step into the darkness and rediscover the power of a great horror story.