I honestly can't remember where I first heard of this book. I will say for being published the same year as Dracula, it is a very good read.

This isn't your 'traditional' vampire (sucking blood, immortal, etc.), but more of what you think of with Mercy Brown (America's first 'Vampire'); sucking the life force/energy out of someone until they die. It's this premise that an interesting story is told.

You will need to keep in mind the society this book was written in. Woman are treated as objects, slavery was a normal thing, etc. (so expect the N word to show up because it does). 

Overall, if you're looking for classic vampire novels I would add this one onto your list.