Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice
The Vampire Chronicles, written by Anne Rice, are a series of vampire novels beginning with Interview with the Vampire. There is a total of ten pieces in the series with the earliest one written in 1976.The Vampire Chronicles is centered on the main character, Lestat de Lioncourt who was once a French nobleman. Lestat turned into a vampire in the 18th century. Lestat is a tall, fashionable vampire whose character has been inspired by Anne Rice’s own husband, Stan Rice. Lestat is an animated character who loves to perform and act. His vampiric capabilities include telepathy and superhuman strength.
In the first novel, Interview with the Vampire, the reader is first introduced to Lestat who turns Louis into a vampire. Once turned into a vampire, Louis and Lestat become companions. The rest of the novels chronicle the life of Lestat and the various vampires, demons and people he comes across.
In The Vampire Chronicles, Anne Rice depicts her vampires in ways different from the classic Dracula figure. In contrast, her vampires cannot be killed with stakes and are not affected by garlic or crosses. However, they do sleep in coffins and cannot be exposed to the sun. Of course, these vampires also need blood, preferably human blood.
Interestingly, her vampires have powers such as telepathy, great strength and great senses. What sets these vampires apart from other types is that they experience intense emotional strain and are highly sensitive.
The Vampire Chronicles have been well received by readers and vampire enthusiasts. The first book and the third book in the series have been developed into films.