Lasher
✍️ Anne RiceRice continues the Mayfair saga with Lasher's physical birth and the Talamasca's investigation.
The plot centers on the corporeal arrival of Lasher and his attempt to create a new race. Rowan’s pregnancy results in Emaleth, a Taltos who survives where others perish. The narrative shifts between global locations and time periods to document these events. Michael’s involvement deepens as he learns about his heritage through spectral encounters. The family’s response involves nursing Rowan back to health while preparing for battle against the demon. The climax resolves the tension surrounding Lasher’s origins and the survival of the Mayfair line through violent confrontation.
This novel is set in New Orleans and Houston, drawing on American family saga traditions. It expands the fictional lore of the Mayfair family and their history with demons and witches established in Rice's previous work.
📝 Description: Lasher
💎 Our verdict on Lasher
📖 Why choose it
Why this book is worth reading
Readers who enjoy complex family sagas and supernatural fiction will appreciate this dense exploration of witchcraft in Louisiana. The narrative offers a deep dive into the Mayfair dynasty’s dark history, tracking the emergence of Lasher into physical form across continents and eras. It is ideal for those fascinated by genetic anomalies and demonic reproduction, as well as the Talamasca’s investigation into paranormal events. The story provides intense psychological horror through Rowan’s struggle and Michael’s spectral encounters with deceased ancestors. Those seeking a thorough examination of lineage survival and violent confrontation will find this narrative compelling. However, individuals preferring light romance or simple plots may find the focus on these darker themes too intense for their taste.
⭐ Reader reviews
Reader rating
A friend from my book club recommended it. It is the kind of horror that rewards reading with the lights on. If you like this kind of cooking, don't hesitate.
Been meaning to get this one for a while. A few scenes I will not forget, whether I want to or not. The binding held up to being carried around for a week. Glad I finally picked this up.
A friend from my book club recommended it. The dread is in the pacing, not in gore, which is exactly how I like it. Will be gifting a copy to a friend.
A friend from my book club recommended it. A few scenes I will not forget, whether I want to or not. A keeper.
Was skeptical at first. The atmosphere builds slowly and then does not let go. Gorier than the description lets on, if that matters to you. Solid, if not essential.
Ordered it for Halloween and it came in time. Slow burn, but the burn is the point. Gorier than the description lets on, if that matters to you. Solid, if not essential.
❓ Frequently asked questions
📖 Who should read this
Fans of sprawling, gothic family sagans and those who delight in intricate supernatural lore will find much to love here. However, readers craving light romances or uncomplicated narratives should steer clear, as this dense exploration of genetic anomalies and demonic reproduction is far too intense for casual browsing.
📜 Historical context
📖 Read on the blog
📖 From the series “Lives of Mayfair Witches”
All books in the series →
✍️ More books by this author Anne Rice
All books by this author →
🏛 Books from this publisher Ballantine Books
All books from this publisher →
You might also like
See more →
Have a question about this item?
Ask about the edition, condition, delivery or anything else — we reply by email or phone, usually within a day.
