An Old Friend of the Family : Book Review

"An Old Friend of the Family" by Fred Saberhagen is an engrossing novel that skillfully combines elements of horror and mystery. The story follows Janos Ferenczy, a vampire who has successfully kept his bloodlust under control for centuries. However, his peaceful existence is shattered when his old friend, Mark Norman, approaches him with a perilous proposition. Desiring immortality, Mark begs Janos to turn him into a vampire. With great reluctance, Janos agrees, but soon realizes that he has made a grave mistake.

Saberhagen's mastery lies in his ability to create and sustain tension throughout the narrative. From the moment Janos consents to turning Mark, readers are filled with a sense of foreboding. The author's descriptive prose mesmerizes us, painting a vivid picture of the dark and eerie world inhabited by these vampires. The plot unfolds rapidly, packed with unexpected twists and turns that leave readers on the edge of their seats.

The book's greatest strength lies in its complex and multi-dimensional characters. Janos, in particular, is a captivating protagonist. As a vampire who successfully resists his bloodlust, he grapples with his own morality and the consequences of his actions. This inner conflict adds depth to his character and makes him relatable to readers. Mark, on the other hand, experiences a dramatic transformation as he embraces his newfound immortal life, and witnessing his descent into darkness is both chilling and captivating.

The underlying themes explored in the novel are thought-provoking and force readers to contemplate the nature of immortality and the consequences of our desires. Saberhagen delves into the psychological and emotional ramifications of immortality, showing that it may not necessarily lead to the happiness many yearn for. The moral dilemmas faced by the characters elevate the story, providing readers with ample material for reflection.

In conclusion, "An Old Friend of the Family" is a captivating and thrilling read. Its suspenseful plot, complex characters, and profound themes keep readers engaged from start to finish. Fans of horror and mystery will undoubtedly find satisfaction in this enthralling novel by Fred Saberhagen.

What are readers saying?

"An Old Friend of the Family" by Fred Saberhagen has received a mixture of reviews from readers. Some praised the author's unique portrayal of vampires and his captivating storytelling, while others criticized the slow-paced plot and shallow characterization.

Many readers were intrigued by Saberhagen's fresh take on vampires, which deviated from traditional lore. The idea of a vampire protagonist struggling against his own dark nature was well-executed and added an element of suspense to the story. The book was described as engaging and filled with unexpected twists that held readers' interest until the end.

Saberhagen's storytelling style was also commended by reviewers. His writing was praised for its clarity and vivid descriptions, allowing readers to easily visualize the scenes. The author's ability to create an eerie atmosphere and maintain suspense throughout the story was also noted as a strength.

However, a common criticism of "An Old Friend of the Family" was its slow-paced plot. Some reviewers felt that the story took too long to get going, leading to a lack of urgency in certain parts. This resulted in a feeling of stagnation and diminished excitement for some readers.

Another aspect that garnered criticism was the characterization. Some felt that the characters lacked depth and development, making it difficult to connect with or care about them. The vampire protagonist, Bram, was described as one-dimensional, lacking complexity or a clear character arc.

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