The Vampire Lestat
by Anne Rice
- First published 1985
- 552 pages
- English
You have heard the story of the vampire Louis, a tale of sorrow and shadow. Now, the vampire who created him, the audacious and arrogant Lestat de Lioncourt, is ready to set the record straight. Awakened from a long sleep by the pulse of 1980s rock and roll, Lestat chooses not to hide in the darkness. Instead, he emerges as a rock superstar, determined to tell his own story and reveal the secrets of the vampire world, regardless of the consequences for mortals and immortals alike.
This is his autobiography, a journey that sweeps from his youth as a rebellious nobleman in pre-revolutionary France to his violent rebirth into a world of eternal night. The narrative follows his desperate search for answers and companionship across centuries, from the decadent theaters of Paris to the ancient, dust-covered origins of his kind. It is a quest for knowledge that uncovers the deepest secrets of vampiric existence, revealing a complex mythology and the terrifying truths that have remained hidden for millennia. This is the story of a creature grappling with his own dark nature, a passionate and thrilling account of a life lived outside of time.
This is his autobiography, a journey that sweeps from his youth as a rebellious nobleman in pre-revolutionary France to his violent rebirth into a world of eternal night. The narrative follows his desperate search for answers and companionship across centuries, from the decadent theaters of Paris to the ancient, dust-covered origins of his kind. It is a quest for knowledge that uncovers the deepest secrets of vampiric existence, revealing a complex mythology and the terrifying truths that have remained hidden for millennia. This is the story of a creature grappling with his own dark nature, a passionate and thrilling account of a life lived outside of time.
What readers say
4.12
224K ratings across the web 8 in 10 readers loved it
Reviewers widely praise this book as a masterful work of storytelling, often considering it superior to its predecessor. Many describe it as a deeply impactful and thought-provoking read, capable of challenging readers' perspectives on morality and the nature of good and evil. The narrative is lauded for its lush, poetic, and engrossing prose, which creates a vivid and sensual atmosphere. A key highlight is the richly developed character of Lestat, who emerges as a complex, charismatic, and contrary anti-hero. Readers appreciate the extensive historical research and world-building, which crafts an intricate mythology spanning various civilizations and time periods, from ancient Egypt and imperial Rome to pre-revolution Paris and the modern era. The book is also commended for its deep philosophical musings on immortality, religion, love, and art, adding significant layers to the adventurous plot.
Despite its many strengths, some readers found the book to have a slow pace, with extensive and occasionally repetitive philosophical discussions and detailed descriptions that could feel long-winded. Certain character actions and dialogue were perceived as overly dramatic or unrealistic by a few. While Lestat's complexity is celebrated, his arrogance, selfishness, and impulsive behavior were noted as potential annoyances, leading some to question his self-proclaimed innocence regarding past events. Additionally, some specific relationships and depictions of intimacy were found by a few readers to be unconventional or unsettling.
Overall, The Vampire Lestat is frequently hailed as a captivating and memorable entry in vampire literature, with many considering it a standout or even a "masterpiece." It is highly recommended for those who enjoy richly detailed gothic fiction, complex anti-heroes, and stories that delve into profound philosophical questions about existence, morality, and identity. Readers who appreciate immersive historical settings, intricate supernatural mythology, and a lush, poetic writing style will likely find this book particularly engaging. It is especially suited for fans of the previous book who are curious to see events from a different perspective, or for new readers looking for a unique and thought-provoking vampire saga.
Despite its many strengths, some readers found the book to have a slow pace, with extensive and occasionally repetitive philosophical discussions and detailed descriptions that could feel long-winded. Certain character actions and dialogue were perceived as overly dramatic or unrealistic by a few. While Lestat's complexity is celebrated, his arrogance, selfishness, and impulsive behavior were noted as potential annoyances, leading some to question his self-proclaimed innocence regarding past events. Additionally, some specific relationships and depictions of intimacy were found by a few readers to be unconventional or unsettling.
Overall, The Vampire Lestat is frequently hailed as a captivating and memorable entry in vampire literature, with many considering it a standout or even a "masterpiece." It is highly recommended for those who enjoy richly detailed gothic fiction, complex anti-heroes, and stories that delve into profound philosophical questions about existence, morality, and identity. Readers who appreciate immersive historical settings, intricate supernatural mythology, and a lush, poetic writing style will likely find this book particularly engaging. It is especially suited for fans of the previous book who are curious to see events from a different perspective, or for new readers looking for a unique and thought-provoking vampire saga.
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Details & editions
- This edition
- Sphere, 2008
- ISBN
- 9780751541960
- Language
- English
Original edition Vampire Lestat Originally published in 1985 · English · Alfred A Knopf
