This book was wonderful to read, it was well written as is every of her books. By this I mean to say is that the depiction of Venice, Russia, and Europe is just how it really is. You feel yourself put in the very state of young Armand through all his suffering and love. Though there is no real justice to say this book is ‘good’ it is great, sensual as well as dark, the combination is fabulous. Having read the book three times I do consider it one of my favorites of The Vampire Chronicles. Of course you must read on stopping at one or two books is just a glimpse into the mind of each of Rice’s characters. Armand takes through his journey into slavery, into the home of the beautiful Marius, and how he fell into the hands of the dark coven leader Santino. He is not the cruel child that some might think him to be, though a Saint? I can’t be too sure on that, regardless he is a black angel and his stunning adventures will charm and delight.