You know my mind was going on the same lines. I never really watch TB but have heard about it. And as far as I can tell, there are some really common similarities between Vampires from almost all such shows and movies, except Twilight cuz it was lame. So I won't be surprised if this personal thing turns out to be same too. And TVD is unique in every way. It's books were written in the 1990s I think so whatever they show will be original as half of it is inspired from the books!
@Fi: Even True Blood (show) is made from the books too and it's good that you haven't watched it... and DON'T... there's not just sex in it... there is NUDITY in it too. It comes on cable on HBO while TVD comes on a family channel like CW!