One sentence summary:
In “Servant of the Bones,” Anne Rice weaves a captivating story of a spirit seeking redemption through the centuries, while exploring themes of power, betrayal, and the nature of humanity.
Book genre:
Historical fantasy, supernatural fiction
Main topic of the book:
The book follows Azriel, a spirit bound to a gold lidded box, as he struggles to understand his purpose and seeks revenge on those who wronged him.
Key ideas:
- The concept of power and its corrupting nature
- The struggle of good vs. evil
- The complexities of the human condition
- The role of choice in shaping one’s destiny
Main parts of the book and a short summary:
- Part One: Little Servant of the Count – Azriel’s origins as a Jewish boy in ancient Babylon and his transformation into a powerful servant of a cruel Count through dark magic.
- Part Two: Little Servant of the King – Azriel’s tragic downfall and his subsequent binding to the gold lidded box that gives him immortality and other supernatural abilities.
- Part Three: Servant to the Spirits – Azriel’s journey through various time periods and cultures, as he seeks understanding and revenge against those who have wronged him.
- Part Four: Wake at the Stars – The final showdown between Azriel and his enemies, and his ultimate decision on whether to continue his existence as a vengeful spirit or find peace and redemption.
Key takeaways:
- Power can be a dangerous and corrupting force.
- Good and evil often have blurred lines and can exist simultaneously within individuals.
- One’s purpose and destiny can be shaped by choice rather than divine fate.
Author’s background and qualifications:
Anne Rice is a critically acclaimed American author, known for her gothic, supernatural and horror fiction. She is best known for her series, “The Vampire Chronicles,” which has sold over 80 million copies worldwide. Rice has also explored other supernatural themes in her writing, such as witches and werewolves. Her ability to create complex and captivating characters has made her one of the most beloved and influential writers in the genre.
Target audience:
Fans of historical fiction, supernatural fiction, and Anne Rice’s work.
Publisher and first publication date:
“Servant of the Bones” was published in 1996 by Alfred A. Knopf, a division of Penguin Random House.