Now, I'll let the cat partially out of the bag. This has something to do with a post coming up in a few days. But this particular book didn't really have anything in common with the other. So I'm not going to get in depth about the Christmas Carol junk. But I am going to let you know about my experience reading this novella. And unlike some of the other posts this week, it's not a sex driven romance.
A Vampire's Christmas Carol
Karen McCullough
85 pages
In all reality, this story hasn't got much in common with Dicken's classic Christmas story. Instead the title is a play on words, but you don't find that out until halfway through the story. The main characters are Carol and Michael, and the story examines the events that occur to them on Christmas eve. The reader is offered a window into a sad event because Michael has basically resigned himself to death.
I hope that's caught your interest, because rather than turn this into a pity party for the characters, I want to get a few thoughts out. The story itself is very good. It reads cleanly, and is well thought out. But it SCREAMS Interview with a Vampire like you wouldn't believe. True it has it's own unique solution at the end, but seriously. Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles aren't likely to be supplanted anytime soon.
However, I would like to see more of this authors thoughts and ideas on vampires. Her proposed hierarchy seems as though it may be very complex. Also her suggestion that vampires have an intolerance to human tears is intriguing. What is it about tears that deter, or disquiets the vamp? Are they similar to holy water? Or are they powerful because they represent a primal emotion that humans can express, while vamps cannot?
Even though I was left questioning some things, it was an enjoyable read. The piece may be classified as a romance, but there isn't much of a sexual undertone. It is more idealistic and sweet. That said, mature readers regardless of whether they are t'weens, teens, or adults may find the story entertaining. It was nice to read a Christmas themed piece that had more of a horror edge. After all the mushy gushy romantic stuff it was definitely a pleasant change. If you read this piece, or have already done so, feel free to share your thoughts.
______________
I'd like to take a moment to remind you that there are only a few more intentional holiday posts left to be made for this year, so don't go anywhere. The fiction programming will be back shortly. I'm also planning some posts on poetry and essays, so you've got that to look forward to in the near future.
No comments:
Post a Comment