Interview with the Vampire
by Anne Rice
In Anne Rice's gothic masterwork, Louis de Pointe du Lac recounts the eternal curse of vampirism, love, loss, and longing through his bond with the charismatic Lestat. The novel is dark, sensual, and beautifully tragic.
About This Book
In Anne Rice's "Interview with the Vampire," the tale unfolds through the eyes of Louis de Pointe du Lac, a 200-year-old vampire recounting his life to a modern-day interviewer. The narrative begins in 1791, when Louis, a plantation owner near New Orleans, is transformed into a vampire by the charismatic yet impulsive Lestat de Lioncourt. Their complex relationship evolves as they navigate the challenges of immortality, with Lestat's hedonistic tendencies often clashing with Louis's moral struggles.
The story takes a poignant turn with the introduction of Claudia, a five-year-old girl whom Lestat turns into a vampire to bind Louis closer to him. As Claudia's mind matures within a child's body, she grapples with the curse of eternal youth, leading to deep-seated resentment toward Lestat. The trio's journey spans continents, from the streets of New Orleans to the theaters of Paris, as they encounter other vampires and confront the complexities of their existence.
The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for identity, set against a richly atmospheric backdrop. The tension between the characters is palpable, driven by their desires, betrayals, and the unending quest for meaning in their cursed lives. Rice's gothic masterpiece offers a dark, sensual, and beautifully tragic exploration of the human condition through the lens of the undead.
What Readers Say
Many readers praise Anne Rice's lush, sensuous prose that brings the gothic world vividly to life. Fans note the novel's deep exploration of themes like love, loss, and the human condition. Some readers find the introspective narrative style to be slow-paced and occasionally melodramatic. Content warnings include graphic violence and mature themes, which may be unsettling for some readers. Ideal for fans of gothic literature and those interested in complex, character-driven stories.
Rating Distribution
Based on 91 Open Library ratings
Reader Reviews
7 curated reviewsShaun O'Sullivan
Feb 23, 2001
Prepare to enter another world
Interview With The Vampire is a novel that will live on through the ages, much like the myriad number of Vampires depicted in Anne Rice's compelling Vampire Chronicles.I had been aware of Interview for several years before I finally decided to give it a read... within a couple of pages it became clear to me that this was no ordinary vampire novel... this was a gateway into another world. A world so rich and complex. Expertly drawn in vivid, beautiful detail. As I fell deeper into the tale of Louis, Lestat and Claudia, I began to feel a deep yearning to be with these characters and embrace them
michelle
Mar 23, 2000
A Book to Fall in Love With
This is an outstanding book with an explosive plot. Not only does the reader get drawn into the story; you BECOME the story. Each word brings you closer to learning the true vampire experience. From the small rural town near New Orleans to the cities of Eastern Europe, the setting takes you back in time to witness killings and seductions.Strong characterization also adds to the story, making it interesting to read. Louis, the main character, is a vampire struggling to come to terms with his destiny as an immortal being. You become involved in his life, and learn how friendly vampires actually
Anonymous Reader
Sep 20, 1997
Poetic, erotic, and deeply engrossing.....
The first book of the Vampire Chronicals was the finest of the series. Anne Rice's words are spellbinding, and almost force you to feel Louis's pain, horror, and despair at killing, which he must do to live, as well as the ecstacy of the killing, the taking of blood. His love for Claudia is a palpable thing, you can almost touch it, as well as his hatred of Lestat. The writing is lyrical, almost musical. Some find the homoerotic imagery disturbing (Although as Rice's vampires have no sex, I really don't know why). I am of the opinion that Louis is her finest character, far subtler and richer t
Jamie "Mental Apparition"
May 20, 2009
Vampires at Their Best
When I first read this novel I was absolutely blown away by Anne Rice's amazing writing talent and her sheer artistry with words. Before Interview With the Vampire I hadn't had much experience with vampire literature but this novel turned me on to it in a big way; to this day I still hunt through the shelves looking for Rice's equal in vampire fiction and with the exception of Poppy Z. Brite I have yet to find it. Louis and Lestat are two of my favorite characters of all time. I loved every aspect of this story but as always with Rice, I think I fell most in love with her lyric and vivid prose
Anonymous Reader
May 19, 1998
Sink Your Teeth In This
Anne Rice's "Interview With the Vampire" is by far the best fiction novel of vampire lore. Rice writes with incredible ease and eloquent style that it comes across as poetic. She creates Lestat, Louis, and Claudia with such realistic vividness and vitality that they're pratically frightening. Regardless of subject matter, this book really is about people, their emotions and thoughts (or lack of), and their will to survive at any cost. It is also about love, hatred, jealousy, and betrayal, and relationships. Beautifully well-written, well-paced, and well-done. This book is a definite
Anonymous Reader
Aug 1, 2006
the 12 year old bookworm opinion
i really enjoyed this book. Its a classic, you dont want to miss the chance to read this book. The characters were so real and lively for a group of undead vampires. It tells the story of the vampire Louis and the real hardship that he faces. Lifes not easy being a vampire,you feel sad for him but the adventure you feel as seeing him on his adventure with Claudia, a vmpire stuck in the body of a little girl ,and the evil vampire Lestat is incredable. Many other treats and exitment await for Louis and Claudia on the quest to meet others like them but wisdom is only gained though hardships. So e