Title: Defanged
Author: HE Edgmon
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication date: September 23, 2025
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Summary
On the surface, Lux is a regular 12-year-old. He goes to school, loves to pet dogs, and is always hanging out with his best friend, Emma. Except, Lux isn’t normal; Lux is a vampire. Though vampires have been in the public for years, not everyone is happy about it. So an organization called Vampirism Sucks created a cure; a cure that all vampires can take once they turn 12.
On his way to his appointment, Lux isn’t so sure that he actually wants to become human. So instead of getting the cure, he runs away. He hopes to find the secret vampire city, Nox Urbus, where he can be himself. But will he be able to keep being himself, if the government decides otherwise?
Review: Defanged
Thanks to NetGalley and Feiwel & Friends for an advanced copy of Defanged by HE Edgmon to review! Edgmon is a favorite YA writer of mine, and his second foray into middle grade is just as good. I hope they continue writing in this genre in the future.
I was immediately drawn to this book by the concept, as it is definitely being used as a symbol for really any disenfranchised population (like racism, ableism, homophobia, etc.). It would be a good way to introduce these topics to a middle grade audience, especially if talking about the topic of eugenics. Edgmon breaks it down in a way that is easily accessible.
Outside of that, the characters were great, and Edgmon put a unique spin on vampires that I don’t think I’ve seen in a book before. Part of Lux’s story is realizing that other than being a vampire, he’s also different in other ways. Through learning how to stand up for himself, he is also learning to accept himself as he is. He also acquires a great support system as he journeys toward acceptance, through both friends and family.
All in all, if you like unique stories about vampires and a focus on coming of age and identity, definitely check this one out!
4/5 stars