I was in a state of shock when I learned of Anne Rice’s passing. After I discovered that she had succumbed to the effects of a stroke that she had suffered two months ago, right around the time of her 80th birthday, the realization that the literary world had lost one of the all-time greats really set in.

Next to Stephen King, I don’t think there was a bigger literary name with the global success that Rice enjoyed. Of course, it all began with that classic first book, INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE, in 1976. I still remember taking my mother’s Book of the Month edition when I was a lad and reading what would become one of the best horror novels of all time.

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For those who may not be aware, the author known as Charles Todd has always been a collaborative effort between Caroline Todd and her son, Charles. Their books, set during the WWI era, feature Inspector Ian Rutledge and army nurse Bess Crawford. What has consistently stood out for me is how human they have been able to make their characters. Each novel is complex, impeccably plotted and handles heavy moral dilemmas with ease and class.

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