Rating: 8/10
If you’ve ever been tempted to delve into the world of the Vampire Chronicles I would highly suggest it. Most have likely seen the movie (I’m watching it again as I write this) but the book, naturally, is able to much better show Louis’ struggle with himself. Struggle isn't even the operative word, Louis' mourning over the loss of his own mortality. Don't be fooled, there are scenes with action and drama, but the underlying story is one man's struggle with the new life he's been forced into. This book gives a look at one man’s (Louis) struggle through his immortal life as a vampire. Namely, his struggle with the aspect of the morality of his new life. It shows his journey from becoming a vampire and dealing with his petty master all the way to current times (well 1976, which is when the book was published). We witness different adventures he and his companion embark on in an attempt to uncover the reality of their new, supernatural lives. We witness history through Louis' eyes. All of this is told by Louis to a boy who is recording the conversation to write a book so that Louis will reveal himself and his kind to the world. The boy is recording this content with the intent to release a book, effectively revealing vampires to the mortal world. Anne Rice does a great job of capturing Louis’ tortured thoughts which is paralleled by his journey through different spaces and time with a couple different companions. I think one aspect of this book that is interesting is that is doesn’t have a focus on specifically romantic love, but rather familial love and longing.