I watched Shiki a fairly long time ago - in that magic period between when it first aired and when it was picked up by Funimation. One of the notable things about it for me was that it was somewhat refreshing to see vampires presented as monsters rather than love interests again. It also kind of reminded me of Higurashi in that it took place in an isolated area and that there was something of an unfolding mystery to solve, at least for the characters.
More recently, I read Steven King's novel "'Salem's Lot," and I couldn't help but be struck by a number of similarities between them. Anyone else both watch the anime and read the book get that feeling?
Shiki and 'Salem's Lot
Shiki and 'Salem's Lot
"Black care rarely sits behind a rider whose pace is fast enough."
-TR
-TR