CHRIST THE LORD: Out of Egypt
Readers' Reactions

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Mrs. Rice expresses her deepest gratitude to these readers, who have so kindly agreed to have their personal words shared with others.

To send Mrs. Rice your thoughts on Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt, please e-mail her directly at anneobrienrice@mac.com.

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Posted 11/4/08

I think I have been waiting all my life for Out of Egypt and The Road to Canaan. I have read the translations and the theological
explanations along with the denominational slant, but never have I read (perhaps with the single exception of The Last Temptation of Christ) an account of Christ's life that actually portrayed him in his humanity. I have delighted in exploring the reference material in your bibliography and have expanded my library substantially for future enlightenment.

In reading your earlier works, I was always amazed at how you could build a character piece by piece and immerse him in such detailed and beautiful settings. You found beauty in the darkness I never knew existed before. Then you opened my eyes to absolute beauty in a man I thought I knew and understood, but really never saw as clearly as through your mind and heart.

As much as I have read and as good a researcher as I consider myself to be, I never fully realized the land of the Jews was in constant warfare, and turmoil. I have come to realize that Jesus walked in a time when one was only a heartbeat away from a zealot's arrow or Roman sword, or a stone thrown in religious fervor. I never fully conceived of the possibility that Christ feared as a child, or struggled with his destiny. I was enthralled with your account of His encounter with Satan. I had never before felt the strength and power on both sides of the confrontation and it was truly an inspiration.

It was also great fun discovering the little cultural details like the
"mikvah" and its importance in their daily lives; the life in the home of the extended family and their devotion and care of the child Jesus. You transported me to His time to stand as He as a small child and look through his eyes in awe of the Temple in Jerusalem. That alone was worth the price of the book.

When I first began Out of Egypt I was somewhat annoyed that you were using "first person" in His dialogue. However, the more I read and became deeper immersed in the narrative, I became aware of the feeling of "walking the walk," and "talking the talk," and it created a closeness with Christ I had never had before. You will always have a special place in my heart for letting me share your journey and shedding a lot of light in my own personal darkness.

These words are yours to use to your advantage in any way you deem necessary.

May you continue to be blessed by the Love of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

William Aker
Bluefield, WV

Posted 10/16/08

Dear Ms. Rice,

I have been a fan for many years. I think the Mayfair Witch trilogy
(which I am one book into) is very powerful. I am also a Presbyterian
minister so my reading choices sometimes invite comment (as I am
rarely without a book in hand).

Some years ago, you were on a radio interview on NPR when a minister
called in. He had one of your novels on his bookshelf and it became
an entry point for a conversation with a young person who came to him
in his role as a pastor. The discussion turned into a theological
discussion of the nature of evil and I remember that you and the
pastor took away something powerful from the dialogue.

I told myself that at some point you would find your journey back to
the faith in our Lord.

But I posted to my blog this morning about Christ the Lord and then
did some background on your website which let to this email.
(www.jesusannoyinghenchman.blogspot.com . . . sorry for the shameless
plug)

A colleague of mine referred it to me-he'd used it as a reading
requirement for his church confirmation class-and I trust his opinion.

It is wonderful. I am barely a third of the way into it, but I wanted
to tell you that I think you have captured the chaos and the wonder
and the fear and the insanity of first century Palestine. My
background is in archaeology and I had the privilege of going to the
Holy Land, and I think you have nailed it. Of course, I may finish
the book and end up hating the ending and write again about that, but
I do not think so.

I have read thoroughly researched historical novels before where the
research has almost overcome the story being told. You have a gift of
allowing the story and the ambience of time and place to breath
through each other and feed each other in a way that just draws me in.
Thank you for that gift.

I deeply appreciated the essay on your website where you sought to
contextualize your "pre-conversion" work. Please do not underestimate
the power of the Spirit I have found working through them. I wonder
if those were works that needed to be written to prepare the path for
what is coming now.

Please also accept my belated condolences for the losses you have
suffered in your family. My own family is the dearest possession I
have in this life. May God bless you as you continue to give such
wonderful literary gifts.

This may sound strange from a stranger across the country, but if I
can ever be of service to you, it would be my delight.

In the service of our Lord, I am
Yours Truly,
Rev. Peter Hofstra

Posted 10/10/08

Thank you for your books on our Christ. As a "good Baptist boy", I
have studied, read and prayed much about Christ. I am proud of my
personal relationship with Him and highly recommend these books to
others, Christian and non-Christian alike.

As an avid reader of your earlier works, I was a little suspicious
when "Out of Egypt" came out. But my love of Christ and love of your
writing style helped me overcome my suspicions. And I am thankful I
did.

What do I love most about your writings of Christ? I have always felt
that if Christ were indeed God and human, the human in him would have
needed to choose to do His father's work. Many people have looked at
that almost as heresy. Their view is that Christ would always do what
He had to do. But if He had no choice, where is the love for all of
us? To me, Christ had to choose His path, not just once during His
temptation but often, especially in his younger life. And your
writings seem to confirm that you feel the same. In seeing Him choose
His path, I see His love for you, me and all of us. Thank you for
giving me this vision.

- Rob Ellis

Posted 10/7/08

Dear Mrs. Rice,

Just a very quick note to express my best wishes and heartfelt congratulations on taking such a bold step of breaking apart from your former works and confidently with your commitment to Christian literature. A big fan of your early works and admittedly a bit skeptical of your new books, I was not quite sure that I would be as devoted to the "new" Anne Rice as I was to the "old" one. However, I thoroughly enjoyed reading my copy of Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt and wanted to express my pleasure with the book as well as with my admiration of you personally. It takes a strong person to make such a change and you not only did it, but did it with style and grace.

All the best,

Tiffane Spencer

Posted 10/1/08

You are truly an inspiration. I was raised with a christian upbringing, yet found myself questioning my faith, the existence of God, and anything pertaining to organized religion after several soul shattering events in my life (I do not wish to discuss these). I had read and loved your earlier works, and a dear friend of mine bought the novel Out of Egypt for my birthday. I waited for three months to read this book--at the time i am sorry to admit that i had no real desire to read this type of novel. Then, my curiosity got the better of me. Why were you choosing the life of Christ as your subject? What had changed since your last novel? For some reason i was drawn to your personal notes in the book. Now in hindsight i realize that this was divine intervention. When you talked about how everyone in their
own time will find their way to God i realized that this was my time to come back to him. He had never abandoned me--He was right there along with me urging me to read your words--another soul who had gone through the fire and come out on the other side. I want to truly thank you for your words and the novels you are writing now. I respect you for bearing your soul in the author's notes and for your drive and determination. I also credit you to guiding me towards my own spiritual renewal. May god bless you and your newfound purpose, and i look forward to your future works.

With love,

Crystal M. Vickers

Posted 7/3/08

Dear Anne:

I am a Catholic priest, ordained twenty-five years.

Over the last two weeks, I read Christ the Lord Out of Egypt, and enjoyed it very much.  I expect it will enrich my spirituality.  But far more moving to me is your Afterword.  It vigorously stirred my heart, energized my mind, made me exult.

It gave me chills when you wrote of the great mystery of the persistence of the Jews.  Are you aware Walker Percy (or is it one of his novels' protagonists?) talks about this?

And it gave me great satisfaction to read your assessment of the assumptions and spirit of some of the skeptical Scripture scholars.  Ever since seminary, I've thought they have glaring gaps in their arguments.  (And, who would approach any other relationship with a "hermeneutic of suspicion"?  Sounds to me like a sure-fire way to kill a friendship, a marriage . . . or a faith.)

I am so grateful that you have re-embraced your Catholic Faith.  I pray that it brings you continued meaning, consolation, joy and sanctity; and, finally, eternal glorious life.

Last Saturday evening, the Vigil of Saints Peter and Paul, I offered Mass for you.
Thank you.

With my prayers,
Fr. Tony Thurston

Posted 7/3/08

Dear Ms. Rice,
 
Knowing how many e-mails you must get, there's no need to answer this one personally.  Just wanted to let you know that I just finished Christ the Lord - Out of Egypt and thoroughly enjoyed it.  Our rector recommended it, so am delighted to know that the 2nd book is now out.
 
Thanks for writing a very insightful human side to Jesus Christ, making Him come alive on the pages and in our hearts.
 
Sincerely,
 
Sabra Parish

As a devout Methodist of 70 years I have read and loved the King James version of the Holy Bible and accepted it for what it is: a map for the thinking individual to pattern a life by that will result in lasting friendships, a calm life uncluttered with conflicts and a spirit that awaits the rejoining of the Lord in his Kingdom with joy. Your book is wonderful. It builds on the Bible as I know it to make Jesus a boy in and of his world, yet confused by things he knew but didn't know. A marvelous read and I thank you. Now I will begin The Road to Cana.

-- Margaret Lester

Posted 5/23/08

Dear Anne,
 
I just finished reading "Christ the Lord - Out of Egypt" last night. I am very happy that you have made your email address available because I want so much to tell you how much I loved this book! It was recommended to me by a co-worker who raved about the series. He had just finished reading "The Road to Cana". He was so excited about the stories and his enthusiasm was contagious. So, I had to find them. I went immediately to amazon.com and ordered the first one. I was so excited when it came in the mail on Wednesday. I put aside my Saturday to read it.
 
It couldn't have been a better day for it. The weather was lovely here in Hillsboro, Missouri and there was a warm morning breeze. I took my morning coffee out on the deck and started reading and didn't stop until I had finished it last night. It has been a long time since I have read a book that makes me take a deep breath and feel satisfied when I close the back cover. It was so beautiful. Thank you so much for your wonderful interpretation of that time in the life of Jesus. And thank you, too, for the heart you put into the story. I appreciated your meticulous attention to the history and detail of the time but even more, you aroused my spirit with the wonderful way you reminded me of the humanity of my Saviour. I adored it and I can't wait to start "The Road to Cana". I went to the bookstore to get it today. It makes me smile just thinking about what I'll be doing next weekend! Thank you for making the decision to write this series. I found myself feeling closer to God while I lost myself in your words.
 
I used to read so much when I was younger. In the past few years I have only made time to read to my children and now to my grandchildren. I forgot how much joy it gave me to lose myself in a book. I thank you for making me realize again how much I love to read and also for the inspiration to pick up other writings about the life of Jesus and the Gospels.
 
With respect and gratitude,
 
Loreen Grable

Posted 5/13/08

Dear Anne,

As I walked past my copy of Out of Egypt this morning, the Byzantine like portrait of Christ caught my attention. The beautiful cover is quite complimentary to my living room table and it was a present from a dear cousin. In 2005, the timely gift reflected my curiosities, and I was already an avid fan.

Surprisingly, I have never gotten past the first few chapters. This of course is no reflection on your talents, for you are one of the most prolific and talented writers I have read. Your attention to historical environment assures the reader is mentally submerged in the world in which your characters live. Your attention to detail allows the reader’s senses to be become highly invested in the story. Clearly you have a divine gift. So I think the reason I hadn’t been able to complete Out of Egypt, was that I felt like it required a commitment to religion, with which I have struggled immensely.

At the time I was viewing the world as my then church (and my children’s school) would have me view it. There were two distinct camps, the churched and un-churched. Although I longed to please the Lord, we found it very difficult to live amongst the churched. Not only was that world superficial and hypocritical, but it did not have room for my son with special needs.

When I first received your book, I realized that you had gone through a transformation. Your earlier works (my favorite being Servant of the Bones) allowed me to briefly escape and wander through ancient landscapes, so I was disappointed that you were leaving them. I thought, “Anne Rice has left us for the churched”, those with whom I found little acceptance or compassion. Your transition also made me fearful that the books and subjects which had fascinated me since early childhood were going to condemn me.

Years of awful experiences with religious people left my then 10 year old son with severe anxiety over church and school. I grew extremely bitter and we finally walked away from all organized religion. At this point, your book was in danger of becoming nothing more than a table decoration nad my faith was shattered.

Thankfully, we found great healing through homeschooling. Our social groups became made up of people from all walks of life, who were much more tolerant of special needs and differences. As our defensive walls were lowered, I was able to begin seeking the Lord individually. I began to study more academically how Christ lived and what He asked of us. It was life altering, and I felt as though I had finally come to see the lessons of His life as man. It was so simple, yet so intensely profound; walk in love. Our basic human necessity of love was all of the comfort and nourishment we needed. Although things didn’t change, we changed. I was ashamed, yet grateful, to realize that He had not once left my side. How patient He was to wait for me. We finally learned that God was available to all, and church acceptance was irrelevant.  

So when your book caught my attention this morning, curiosity drove me to visit your website. I saw it immediately, your Essay on Earlier Works.  I felt a sense of apprehension, but decided to read it….and was stunned. Be it your poetic talents or many hours of contemplation, I was touched by what I read. Not only was your journey well presented, but I felt that you had a clear understanding of your readers and that you had not left us behind. On the contrary, you have invited us to explore along with you as you seek to know the Lord in a most pure form.

After reading through some of your website, I could see that your faith was profound. It was purely introspective, and you look only to be closer to the Lord.  It was evident that you had invested a great deal of thought in your faith. I could also appreciate your quandary over some who criticize your earlier works. I think you can rest assured that more of this comes from the unfortunate Christian (and I am a Christian) practice of displacing attention from the “self” (Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?) I found relief in recognizing that many who are overly pious have strong insecurities, and cope with them by pointing out perceived flaws in others. I try to bear in mind that it was the disciples who were critical, and Jesus who would walk among all. It took me years to accept that man is man and God is God. I finally learned that the church does not represent Him, but rather is meant to glorify Him.

Your essay conveyed a deep understanding and respect for your earlier readers and the human condition…..of my condition. So much so that I felt driven to write to you (this is not typical of me). I am still unable to be part of a “religious” group, but my faith is strong. Sitting beside me is your book Christ the Lord, Out of Egypt. I now feel quite comfortable reading it. I look forward to your vivid imagery, and the evidence of your always extensive research. I am excited to finally follow you down this path. Thank you for sharing your beautiful gift and entertaining my email.

Michelle Nelson

Posted 2/1/08

Dear Anne,

I have read a few of your Vampire Chronicle novels in the past and always enjoyed them. When Christ the Lord first came out, I thought it was so intriguing, and it was something that I've often thought about -- what was the child Jesus really like? Who was he? What really happened?

But, I'm not really one for "Christian" books. This book sat untouched on my bookshelf until a few days ago when I was cleaning and decided I would much rather crack open a book than continue in my dusting. I have to tell you that it amazed me, right from the first page.

In your story, Jesus accurately had two sides, part human part God... part boy, part wonder. I held my breath as I read Christ the Lord, anticipating those moments when he would glimpse and discover his power and his nature. It was like having God right there in my hands.

The Gospels that I've been taught are always in perspective -- from the voices and the minds of people other than Jesus. I've always wanted the story to be told from Jesus himself, his voice, his thoughts, his emotions. Being familiar with your work and your utter devotion to (or obsession with!) research, I couldn't have been happier knowing that the story of Jesus I've always wanted to read was written by Anne Rice.

Christ the Lord, Out of Egypt changed my life. That sounds terribly cliche, but it moved me and inspired my faith and made me feel so close to that person -- the Son of God -- who always seemed just a little out of reach.

Thank you for this gift. As soon as I finished, I ran to your Web site to find out if sequels were coming. And again, you're fulfilling my wishes! I will be among the first to buy Christ the Lord, The Road to Cana, in spring.

You have my full, express permission to use what I've written here as you wish. I'd be glad to have a part in encouraging others to read this magnificent story. It is a treasure to me.

Sincerely,

Lindsay D. Schultz

Posted 12/28/07

dear anne,

i hope i can be so familiar as to use your first name, after reading all of your books, i feel like i know a part of you. 

i started my journey through your books with "interview with the vampire" and was instantly caught by your creative style and incredible attention to detail, especially the historic detail. of all your books, i think "the mummy" was my favorite. i wish you had had the chance to write a sequel. but from the mayfair family to the myriad of the vampire world, i have always been enchanted and delighted. as for my last words on your "old writings", i recently reread "blackwood farm" and last of all, "blood canticle". after following "lestat" through disaster and failure over and over again, i was thrilled that, in the end, lestat finally discovered the true meaning of love, as witnessed by his turning rowan away from "the dark gift"... perhaps i interpreted it wrong, but that's how i saw it. i have always seen those books to be less about supernatural figures than larger than life human beings struggling with all that we humans face in life. 

i had been putting it off for a long time, because i was so afraid that your writing style would change drastically, but a few days before christmas, this year, i began reading "christ the lord: out of egypt". let me say that i have not really celebrated christmas since my mother died of breast cancer five years ago. but this year, i spent christmas with my partner's family, who i've grown to love and care for dearly. i was not sure that i could handle this season. but as i dove into your newest book, i found a strange sense of peace about life. as i read the story of the young Jesus, i again found myself wrapped up in a story. a story that you wrote in a way that surrounded me with the dust and dirt of a trek from egypt to nazareth. to the daily workings of the women making bread and weaving cloth, the carpentry of Jesus' foster father, the simple daily rituals of the people of that time. my undergraduate studies were in christian theology, and i certainly have a good working knowledge through archeology, study of the greek and hebrew scriptures, and other writings of the first century to paint a good picture in my mind of what it would have been like when Jesus was a child. but never have i had it so richly put that i thought i was there! even with my great imagination, i could not have created that world as you did. 

at this time of celebrating Christ's birth, i can think of no more beautiful way to bring this wondrous event to life than reading your story. the intimacy of hearing the words that the Jesus would have said, the questions and difficulty of discovering who he was. the pure, innocent humanity that you portrayed... well, i was simply spellbound, to say the least. what a wonderful gift you gave to me this christmas! your words have truly touched my heart and helped me to better understand what our Lord went through. my spirit has truly been enriched and blessed by this book! 

i appreciate your time and look forward to reading more! i do hope you intend to continue the story! you do it better than any writer i have ever read (and i've read a lot, lol).

Posted 4/3/07

I would like to thank you for writing this book. It has given me a chance to see Jesus as someone different (more human) than what people tried to get me to swallow when I was young. When my wife got the book I said I wouldn't read it mostly because I tend to shy away from things of this nature. But I picked it up to read before she did because I needed something to read. Well I just want to say thank you for this look at his life, and I do look forward to getting the next one when it comes out in paper back. I'm sorry for only buying books in paper back but as you know some times things change and for my wife and myself it has, and for the better I might add, but money is tight because of it. And Sweetie if you want to use any part of this E-Mail for any reason, you feel free to go right ahead.

Dakota Lynn

Posted 3/28/07

WOW!!!!! I just finished your novel and I am breathless. I loved your earlier novels, but this one is wonderful. How soon will you be publishing the next one? I won't be waiting for the paperback for it. I'll buy it the day of release.

But, as much as I liked the novel, the author's note touched me personally. I too returned to the church after being away for years. Your journey reminded me of my own, and I wanted to write and welcome you back.

Please, don't let critics tell you what to write. You follow your heart and the voice of the Holy Spirit, and continue to give us books that show not only your unique style but are of worthwhile substance.

Thank you again. Your book and author's note touched my heart and made my day.

And, yes, not that I'm worth quoting, but feel free if you feel the need.

Much love from a long time fan,

Jeni Jackson
Indianapolis, IN

Posted 3/18/07

Dear Mrs. Rice,

Thank you for being so open and inviting your readers to communicate with you; I am sure the avalanche of words has been as daunting as it has been inspiring. I wanted to thank you, again, for your kindness and to extend my gratitude further by letting you know how moved I am by your ardent concern for the validity and reliability of our gospel record. By giving your link to your book reviews on Amazon.com on your website, you have opened up to me a magnificent archive of support and scholarship for some of the toughest questions facing the church today; I want to be like a sponge and just soak in all the wonderful works that have inspired you in your own journey and have made the story of Christ come to such breathtaking beauty in your latest book.

As I read your comments on books like "Fabricating Jesus" I was very glad to know that you are as strongly opposed to the cultural inundation of anti-gospel movies and books such as "The Da Vinci Code" and "The Gospel of Judas" as I am. Isn't it terrible how easily one can sell the truth without a moment's hesitation? Especially in light of such terrific documentation and wealth of academic knowledge as you have spoken about and highlighted in the afterword of "Out of Egypt: Christ The Lord". I think you have single-handedly managed, by your research, to provide to the 'popular reader' one of the best and most accessible lists of christian apologetic sources in the history of the world! May those who truly seek truth be directed to that as an excellent starting point to unraveling the insidious and defamatory themes running to and fro in our age. I don't think the impact of your book will be truly appreciated for some time, but its impact is already being felt (I believe) worldwide and I'm almost relieved that the reading public has such a voice of sanity in the wilderness of commercial bookshelves around the country; as true as a candle shines brightest where it's darkest, may some light fall on the darkened areas of the seeking, wise, and understanding minds that are attracted to that blessed afterword!!!

With best regards from a truly enlightened soul,

Jonnathan M.

P.S. As you requested on the site, you have my complete permission to reprint or post this email if you so desire, truly! I also wanted to, as a sidebar, thank you for your encouragement in my own writing journey...I can't believe I'm 12,000 words into an actual story that, until now, only lived in my head...crazy! You were right, just step out in faith and write...even if it's only beautiful to me and no one else, the sense of joy and satisfaction it brings is such a marvel...I can see why you stay on this writing path despite the soul-wrenching decisions and agonizing over every letter! As a newbie, I truly applaud your for your hard work and dedication over the years. Kudos, lol, and God Bless.

Posted 3/2/07

Dear Mrs. Rice,

I'll never forget it. It was 1992 or 1993 and I picked up my first Anne Rice book when I was 13. It was my stepmothers copy of "The Witching Hour". I'll never forget how I sat in my fathers library until wee hours of the morning finishing the chapters. I'd tell myself "...ok one more chapter, one more chapter..." until I'd spent half the night up reading that book. It was all I could think about in school. I couldnt wait to get home to finish reading about what what happened w/Rowan and Michael and Mona. Something awakened in me after I finished that book....I wanted more.

I've read I think all of your books except the latest. I mean TaltosÊis absolutely brillient.ÊI dont think I've ever felt as embraced by an author until you.ÊWith each novel you seem to not only make good fiction, but history. Your writing has such passion and confidence and a flow so serious I cant help but to believe you believe what you're writing. Its like you've actually had these experiences and lived to tell about them.ÊI really believe reading your work has opened my mind.

I dont want to ramble, but I just want to thank you. You've changed my life in a way I really cant even explain. But I do know it began with "The Witching Hour".

Sincerely,

Cynethia Taylor

Posted 3/2/07

Some years back when I was deployed, I had a lot of time on my hands with nothing much to do. I went to the Base Exchange and randomly purchased some of the books they had there. I ended up buying "The Art of Happiness" as well as your book, "The Vampire Armand". Understand I had no real reason to buy either; they were both entirely bought by chance. When I initially started reading your book, I didn't really care for it. The vampires seemed to be just a little bit too gay. I spoke to one of my friends about it who was an art student, and she made the comment that it did seem like it was actually the ambiguously gay vampire chronicles. We laughed about it, but I figured since I paid for the book I might as well finish it.

Somewhere along the line though I began to understand it was more about appreciating beauty than anything else, and somewhere along the line I really started to enjoy it. Since then I have read all the novels I can find, though only in hardcover. I consider paperbacks to be a waste, and that anything worth being read should be made so that it lasts. Every month or so I go to the thrift stores and old book stores to locate copies of your older books, though I am especially happy when I find first editions. Since I move around a bit I am sure I have more than a few duplicates of your books, though I don't mind in the least.

I guess what I am trying to show is how much your books turned my initial impression on its head. It surprises many people when they look at my bookshelf and see your books next to W.E.B. Griffin, and other military themed books. I thought you might be amused to find you have a varied audience. Anyhow, thank you for your books, I enjoy them very much.

Brian O'Neil

Posted 2/27/07

Ms. Rice:

I gotta admit, I really never found much interest in your books before, because some of them seemed kinda "out there", and not applicable to my life.

I picked up "Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt" by accident when I was looking around in the bookstore with a gift card I got as a Christmas gift. I looked at it with MANY doubts (this is the "Vampire" author...hmmm...) Then, I read the reveiws for the book, and what it was supposed to be about, and a little about WHY you decided to write it--so, I decided to give your portrayal of jesus as a boy a try.

BOY, am I glad I did! This was a really sensitive, beautiful attempt to get to know our Lord better. It really matched the Scriptural acounts that I have seen about what the world and the Temple would have been like at that time. I can see the research you put in because of how DETAILED the account is. And, reading your journey through and out of unbelief back into faith was truly inspiring. I really needed to hear the message about having peace with leaving people and things that happen in His hands--I have a lot of things I have really been struggling to understand, and it is OKAY to wonder about them. It is also okay to trust the He knows what is happening, and what is best for me, my family and my friends. I can just keep casting my cares on Him.

Thanks for all your time, effort and skill. I really admired what you said about the need to use modern methods to communicate the message of Christ and His love. I loved what Mel Gibson did in "The Passion of the Christ", and I am seeing "Christian" authors being sold more in the mainstream, both books, and movie adaptations (Ted Dekker and Frank Peretti are writing in the thriller genre and making movies based on their wild and wonderful stories that reveal spiritual truths). Why can't a "more mainstream" author offer books that show the love of God through her hard work and dedication to her craft? I am waiting for more books like this anxiously!

Feel free to use my comments if you like. I thought you might appreciate the modern music efforts of artist Todd Agnew in a song titled "My Jesus". It gave me that similar feeling of hope and wonder at how MUCH Jesus was both God AND Man at the same time as your book, and I think you and Mr. Agnew might very well see "My Jesus" in the same sort of way. And you both want desperately to love Him more every day.

Thanks again, and MANY blessing upon your newly consecrated work!

Carissa D. Huffman

Posted 2/27/07

Dear Ms Rice - thank you for your newest book. I must admit, I have never read another of your novels. I say this sheepishly, as I know what a reknown and accomplished author you are, and I am an avid reader. For some reason I was never drawn to read of Lestat and know of him only peripherally.

Recently I was on an annual retreat with a group from my church (Onesquethaw Reformed in Feura Bush NY... a tiny stone building with about 50 active members). We were in the Adirondacks and I had not brought anything for my bedtime reading. Stopping at the local 'general store' on the way to the retreat center I looked to see what they had in store... and there I found Christ the Lord. As my favorite genre is what I have come to refer to as 'biblical historical fiction' (if that's the correct terminology??), the paperback caught my eye.

I hated finishing the book... I just wanted it to go on and on!! Thank you for bringing the young Jesus to life. Thank you for the extensive research and the factual, historical perspective and instruction provided through the work. You have done an honor to Christ our Lord... and to His followers.
your work is sincerely appreciated by this believer!

Deb Relyea

Posted 2/20/07

Your message about emails encourages my desire to write. I read Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt over this weekend. I couldn't put it down. I'm a semi-retired (68 yr. old) teacher of the classics, now teaching New Testament Literature at a secular university, and fairly well versed in first-century history, literature, and culture. When I next teach NT in the fall, I will urge my students to read Christ the Lord. I can't think of a better way to help them imagine Jesus' early years: his family, his life in Egypt and in Nazareth, learning the Torah from his rabbis, experiencing Passover in Jerusalem. You convey all of these aspects very convincingly. Including the power of the Temple and its place in Jewish life. And I love your portrait of this Child, puzzled by strange powers, struggling to understand his past, the past that his parents are not yet ready to share with him. I love the strength and courage of Joseph, whom you really make a father to this child, and the mother (the Blessed Mother I have come to love too) living out the life God called her to with all of its complexities. And James, the elder brother who comes to love his younger sibling. It all hangs together so well. I was most touched by Jesus' terrible anguish on learning of the slaughter of the innocents who died in his place. You convey it so well, and you have shown me how to understand that Jesus' intense suffering began well before the Cross.

I teach three of the gospels, Mark, Luke and John, as story, as drama. I want my students to appreciate the literary genius of these writers, to enter into each of their stories of Christ and themselves engage the characters. It mostly works. My mostly conservative Protestant students come to see Jesus as they have never before. They tell me so in a final essay in the course. So many say that they never realized how truly human Jesus was; for so many he was God walking around in a body. So many of them are raised on an atonment theology; in the course they begin to understand the Incarnation. They tell me that this experience enriches their faith. I'm not surprised.

I want to say how deeply touched I was by your sharing your own faith journey in the Afterward. I too spent a long hiatus, from the Anglican Christianity of my youth. It was around the age of 50 when, after some time in therapy, one evening when the little, abused and anguished child within me asked God why, spoke truly and honestly to God for the first time in years, I received an answer--not an explanation, for God said to me, "Bob, there is no explanation"--but a profound compassion that embraced and held me and brought me to a moment of utter peace that will stay in my heart forever. I realized then that God had always been with me, always looking out for me. And when two years later I was finally able to grieve the loss of two people I loved, as well as that child's loss of love and innocence, I was able to come to a depth of love and intimacy I had held myself back from for most of my life. I fell in love, and Maria married this 58 year old bachelor who was feeling like he was 20 again. We'll celebrate our tenth anniversary in Scotland this summer.

When I returned to faith and began to read the gospels again, I found in Jesus that same compassion I experienced when God answered my plea. Now I contemplate the mystery of Christ while still seeking to understand better Jesus the man. Teaching the gospels again and again has helped so much with this. I also can say the Creed again (once again an Episcopalian, having come home) because I understand the Creed as a symbol of the mystery that I seek to live more deeply into. The Eucharist is now my community drama, our gospel of the presence of Christ. I cannot tell you how grateful I am for these blessings, but I'll bet you understand.

Thank you for these gifts you have given me and others: the gift of your story, and the gift of your story of Jesus. I look forward to the next novel. Share any of this you wish with your readers.

Grace and peace.
Bob

Robert J. Schneider

Posted 2/15/07

Dear Miss Rice,

Actually that's Mrs Rice, isn't it? Sorry about that. Thank you for your reply. I'm fascinated by your view of God! The things that you said have made me realise a that in all this time I've been going on about Godless universes and things, I've missed a very obvious point which undermines my whole rationale: I've been angry with Him ever since I was ten years old and grieving for my dead loved one. That implies I think he exists, doesn't it? I mean, you can't be angry with someone or something that doesn't exist, right?

I take your point that He didn't say, "I come to bring you organized religion". This is fair enough, no one in their right mind would inflict organized religion on a species apparently possessed of such a wide streak of madness as humanity. And we ARE mad, aren't we? I agree that we do indeed live in a complex world of infinite beauty. I used to be in a band, and we once hired a couple of minibuses to drive down to Northumberland for a gig, a couple of hundred miles or so. We got one of those classic days that's all blue skies and golden sunshine and ends in a sunset so magnificent that you can't even speak for the glory of it. I swore that day I would never take nature for granted again.

I felt close to something, not exactly a presence or even an entity, more like an underlying energy, or pattern, or something. Perhaps to you this looks like a no-brainer, just another one of the flock gone astray. But I recognised that refusal to take beauty for granted in your work. Beauty should NEVER be taken for granted; there's so much of it, and yet not enough somehow. You're right, the message to love everyone even your enemies is no joke, I've never thought it was. Isn't love what it's all about in the end? But Mrs Rice, I don't understand what this Good News is anymore. Why so much beauty side by side with so much ugliness? I don't believe we wouldn't know good without evil; of course we would. My cats know the difference between good and bad...but that's because I taught them, isn't it? Hmmm.

Anyway, I just wanted you to know that you've made me realise I've been backing away from all these things because the questions they raise make me uncomfrortable with the rationalisations I've come up with for the way things are. "Strong emotion recalled in a time of calm", right? So thank you.

I'm going to get hold of Christ the Lord now and devour it. I forgot to say you can use any of this stuff on the website or wherever, if you want to. You've made me feel part of a living universe again, not just some machine. We are surrounded by magic and mystery, aren't we? Thank you for reminding me.

I love the fact that you don't take beauty for granted, if more people did that this world would be a paradise indeed.

Peace and love, Justin

Posted 1/30/07

Dear Anne Rice,

Thank you for writting Christ The Lord Out Of Egypt. I was raised in a non-denominational Christian church, some of my friends have decided that it was a cult, and I am no longer a member. I grew up with a strong belief in God The Father and had alot of faith in God.

In 1976 when I was 19 I got married to a Catholic and after having my first son in 1980 faithfully attended Mass with my family, because personally I do not believe in families not attending church together. In 1995 when my husband left me the prayers and hymns that were said sustained me through my lowest times and in 1996 I became Catholic. For awhile I attended Mass on the weekends that my sons were with me, then I allowed life to get in the way and I seemed to have lost my way. I think that your book has opened the door of light to me. Thank you.

I was glad to read on your website that you are continuing to research and write about our Lord.

Thank you,
May God's light shine upon you and keep you,
Theresa Diane Miller

Posted 1/16/07

I don't fully understand my faith in Christianity. I am always searching for something to perfectly enlighten myself to the mysteries surrounding Christ and the things I feel I must believe in. As you would probably expect, nothing I find ever accomplishes. I also find myself interested in material that I think will criticize or try to disprove Christ. I have been aware of your vampire books for awhile now, and while browsing our public library, came across your section. When I found Christ The Lord, my instant reaction was almost a boiling rage because of my own assumptions that you are not a Christian and only write about evil things. My curiosity forced me to attempt your novel, which I thought for sure would be a blasphemous admonition. As I read the first few pages, I felt my predictions were true and I almost put your book down to take back the next morning. Something made me continue and now I must praise you and God for your wonderful work.

I enjoyed your work and am glad to have an imaginative creation of Jesus' childhood in my library. I appreciate your research into the historical fact you presented. You painted a glorious picture for me and some insight into understanding Jesus more, even though your representation is fiction. I was so worried about you being wrong about this and now rejoice in how much I feel you could be right.

Most importantly, I rejoice in you returning to Christ. I was touched by your synopsis of your "Christian" journey in the Author's Note.

Thank you for your story. I feel compelled to read some more of your work, although hesitant because of the material and my own conservative beliefs. I will try your previous material with an open mind.

Respectfully Yours,

Jason C. Saneholtz

Posted 12/12/06

Dear Ms. Rice,

I loved Christ the Lord and am anxiously awaiting the next book. I had never read your other books but my daughter had and she made us go by your old home in New Orleans. I bought another copy and gave it to my minister, a learned student of the Bible who has read it in Greek and Hebrew. My minister was enraged by Browns book but he loved yours. You have made me more of a believer and I am indebted to you.

With best regards,
David S. Froelich
Orlando, Florida

Posted 12/8/06

I remember reading your Vampire Chronicles as fast as I could get my hands on them back in high school and college. These books were certainly not approved by my Southern Baptist upbringing, but they allowed me to rebel a bit, and certainly be entertained much. Four years ago I converted to Catholicism, after marrying a wonderful Catholic man. With a full time job as a nurse, and another full time job raising three kids, I rarely get to read a whole book, but I picked up Christ the Lord at Walmart while waiting for an oil change. I was reluctant at first. Was this a book that would belittle that which I held sacred? I was drawn by your name, and when I flipped the book over and saw it was endorsed by several Catholic journals, I began to feel more at ease. I think, now, that the Lord called my eyes to this book. What an incredible journey you have begun! I was hoping that since I bought it in paperback at Walmart, perhaps this was old and there were more in the series that I could get!! No such luck as of yet, but I can't wait! God is using you in such a mighty way. Even though you've never heard of me, I think of you as an old companion, and I'm so thrilled for your renewed walk with Our Lord. I love to read fiction, to live in someone else's life for a moment, and as of late, I try to read things that are uplifting, but many of the "Christian" fiction books I have found are no different from the Harlequin romances without all the steamy bedroom scenes (yawn!!). I will pray for you as you continue this awesome work God has sparked in you. I am again that teenager who can't wait to get my hands on your next work. My best friend from college and I reunited about a year ago, and as we compared notes from the last 12 years, our lives had both transformed from party girls to responsible grown up moms, following very similar paths along the way. We knew our friendship must have been "meant to be" as it had grown and matured along with us. This is how I'm feeling right now about your books... They have changed right along with me, along such a similar path! In a "burning bush" moment, I know that God will speak to me through you, and I can't wait to hear what He has to reveal through your gift. God bless you!!

Tiffany Horsley
Coffeyville, KS

Posted 12/1/06

Dear Anne,

When I saw the title of your book and then your name, I couldn't put the two together in my mind, but I bought it out of curiosity.

I had always associated your books with the supernatural as it relates to the 'dark side'; vampires, witches and the like.

I am SO glad that I bought the book! I have terrible habit of reading the first few chapters in a book and then flipping to the back to see how it ends, when I did this with Christ the Lord, I read your notes about your journey back to a relationship with Jesus Christ and I wept.

I am so happy for you, I look at your picture in the back and compare it to the pictures in the Vampire Chronicles and you simply glow!

I am not Catholic, I am a Pentecostal/Charismatic believer, but I believe that the Spirit of the Lord is drawing all of us to know Him, and to let the definitions be put aside. I am just so glad that you are at peace in Him who has truly kept us all in the palm of his hands.

May God richly bless you as you continue your journey with him.

God bless,
Shannon Aubill

Posted 12/1/06

Dear Ms. Rice,

Your latest book is quite interesting. I was especially touched by your account of finding faith again. In the last half of the 80's, I had a similar experience, though I don't consider that I entirely left the faith. I had grown up in the church and committed myself to follow Christ personally at an early age and had few questions about it. A greater experience with the world and its challenge for me to know more about the background and basis of my beliefs eventually slammed me into many dilemmas. I began to doubt. I intensified my investigations, reading many histories about Biblical times, including those of Josephus, Tacitus, Herodotus, and Diodorus Siculus, as well as many of the writings of post-apostolic age church leaders. I read through twenty-three books and dissertations on bronze-age Mesopotamia, alone. I studied the Higher Critics of the nineteenth century and the textual critics of recent times. I've investigated the structure and vocabulary of Hebrew and Greek and the origins of the books of the Bible.

I lived for several years with paralyzing doubts that seemed to grow day by day. Answers seemed to pull further away than when I started. Finally, the Lord took matters into His hands (as if they weren't already in His hands). In my bedroom one morning after getting up, a question plunged into my head as if from another realm. It stopped me cold. "Well, what are you going to do? Are you going to leave?" I suddenly realized that leaving was never really an option that was on the table. The idea of leaving the faith seemed as absurd as leaving myself. How could I do that? What I am is what Christ has made of me through the faith that I have had. My answer was, "No. How could I do that?" All the doubts suddenly shrank in importance and Christ became personally real and prominent again.
Most of the questions have been answered in time; though a few remain, I am confident they can wait their turn. I've learned to question now without doubting. I've even learned that the Lord likes questions because He has all the answers. We just have to wait for His timing. Jesus can be heard in the Gospel of John saying, "I have much to say to you but you cannot bear it now."

I was impressed by how you used your intellect in discovering the veracity of the scriptures. Your observation about the destruction of Israel by the Romans being a confirmation of the early date of the gospels was astute. I have learned through my struggles that the scriptures as penned by the apostles and prophets are absolutely reliable. No non-Biblical ancient texts even approach the Bible in the amount of ancient copies available or the amount of independent verification.

As a part of my investigations, I even managed to produce a merged version of the four gospels. I discovered in the course of that effort that the four accounts agree with one another to an astonishingly high degree. I could find only 17 phrases and words that contradicted. These consisted of minor details, such as the color of a robe, the name of a region, the number of persons involved in an incident, and minor chronological points such as whether six days or eight days had elapsed between two events. Not one single point of doctrine or teaching is affected by any of these, nor is the outcome or significance of any event affected. The largest disagreement I could find, which really isn't a true conflict when thoroughly understood, is a difference in chronology for a segment of events during the Galilean ministry between that given by Matthew and that shared by Mark and Luke. That segment is introduced in the gospel accounts without any statements of chronology. It is clear that, for that particular segment of events, the authors had little concern for its placement in the text. The content was the important thing, which is entirely in agreement among the three authors. I discovered that Jesus cast out the money-changers from the temple three times, which is what you would expect, knowing that flies need to be shooed away more than once. The gospel writers each included only one description of it in their works according to the conservative economy of writing in those days. The uniqueness of each gospel only adds to their veracity as independent observations of the same events.

There can be little doubt that the rest of the New Testament has been guarded by the Holy Spirit. We can trust all the letters of Peter, Paul, James, and John. No point of principle can be found in disagreement among these writers. All the main-stream translations of today differ very little from one another, except in style. The Bible is its own interpreter. We should not trust in the wisdom or notions of men unless they agree absolutely with the scriptures. We should trust in only one Man completely and take to heart His Word by His servants, the apostles.

Let me encourage you to continue your investigations into the scriptures with the same intellectual acumen with which you began and not stop with just discovering Christ the Man, but continue with discovering Christ the principle. It is not enough to believe He is the Son of God, that He became flesh, that He died and rose again from the dead. We must know why He did and how it relates to our daily lives and take it to heart. The apostles go into that at length in their letters. Perhaps the most eloquent statement of Christianity can be found in Paul's letter to the Ephesian church: "For by grace (undeserved favor) you are saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works which God has before ordained that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:8-10)

God bless you! It is always a joy to discover new sisters and brothers in Christ!

Charles

Posted 12/1/06

Anne,

I have read on occasion your books throughout the years and have very much enjoyed them. I must admit to you that I have never visited your website and knew nothing of your background or life, until you laid it out for the world in your most recent book, Christ the Lord. I was so very pleased to hear of your coming back to the Lord. This is such a personal and yet inspirational thing for you to have shared and I want you to know that it is appreciated. Do not be discouraged, please. I loved reading your thoughts on Christ as a child and I look forward to your pursuit of this story as Christ grows, as I do hope you continue with this story line. The dissent you might receive at times from readers I am sure is difficult to take, but know that by simply writing and in turn discussing Christ’s life with the world, you will touch more hearts than are ever darkened. Thank you again. I look forward to your next book. I hope very soon!!??.

Take care, and God Bless You.

I am so glad to welcome you back home to Christ!  

David S. Shively

Posted 12/1/06

Anne,

Upon completing “Christ the Lord” last night, I felt compelled to write and say thank you. I can’t remember enjoying a book this much, ever. You have deepened my love for Him and my awareness of Him. I was very impressed with your attention to detail and very pleased to learn about your passion for accuracy, as well.

While reading your work, I found myself completely immersed in another world. I wept over Jesus’ loving relationship with his Mother at several points in the story. (I’m sure that this is partly due to the deep connection between myself and my youngest son.) You made Jesus’ humanity and vulnerability as a human so very real. It is a constant wonder to me that He would subject himself to our weakness and frailties as He did. I eagerly await more writings on the subject, as I understand you are working on them currently.

You are a gifted writer. Thank you for sharing your gift with us. Congratulations on your return to faith. How lovely to have a thinking person giving us quality materials to read that glorify the God we serve.

May His hand guide and protect you in all you endeavor.

His by Grace,
Denise Earnest

Posted 12/1/06

Hi Anne,

I just finished reading your book and love it. I will recommend it to all. 

I hope you will continue to write more about Jesus and his life. I love to read but find it hard to find good Christian novels.  Your book is excellent.

Thank you,

Missy Johnson
Sunset, TX

Posted 12/1/06

First and foremost, THANK YOU for this wonderfully amazing insight into our Lord as a child, your work has touched me deeply. I myself have had a very hard time coming to terms with organized religion. I am a spiritual person, believing in God and his parentage of the universe, I just haven't been able to deal with the innumerable amount of hate and discrimination that is taught in many religions. Free will is a precarious gift and it seems that as a whole humanity has used that gift poorly.

As much as the story "Christ The Lord" moved me, your Author's note, and addition to the paperback novel moved me even more so. I am comforted that God and Christ have found a voice in this generation. Using the gift of your talent as a gift back to God is a beautiful acknowledgment of his grace and beauty.

I look forward to the future installments of Christâs life. I canât express enough how much it means that there is someone with talent and dependability taking on this task. You are truly blessed with Godâs grace. As his servant you will bring much joy, comfort, understanding to his children. Your work will fuel the fires of imagination, education, and dedication the world over.

With my most sincerest personal regards,
Scott H Frank
Valdez, Alaska

Posted 11/10/06

Posted 11/10/06

Your faith has been a constant presence in your writings, making them even more beautiful to me, a Christian. Lestat's journey with Christ was absolutely haunting. I read everything you do, and, while some may not be my favorites, I find that I enjoy each encounter and take something away with me.

I don't think writers truly understand the importance they play in readers' lives, and IÊjust wanted to thank you for the many hours of reading pleasure you have given me. My world, along with others I'm sure, would be less interesting without you.

Much peace, love, and blessings!!

Amy

Posted 11/10/06

Anne,

There is no need to respond to this. Know that I am praying for you and your work. It is enough for me to just be able to tell you this. It has been a year since I've read Out of Egypt and have thought so much about it many times. I just want to thank you for your work and service to our Lord. I had read a couple of your books years ago and frankly had to stop reading you because of the foreign spirit I felt when reading them. But the spirit of light was so thoroughly shown in Out of Egypt that I could see as I read it that something indeed must have changed in you. I openly wept with joy when I read your testimony at the end (17 pages straight from your heart - I think it was 17 pages, I'm not sure since I quickly gave my copy away and then purchased another to give away so others could share in its joy). I am reminded of Paul saying "You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts". (2 Cor 3:3)

In our church service this morning my mind drifted to a scene in your book of our "young" Lord - I believe he was lying on the grass - hearing the faint "hum" of all creation - created by him and sustained through him. Oh the glorious thought!

I continue to pray for your project. I'm a 53 year old, husband, father, and a forgiven child of our God. I work in a factory that produces charcoal briquettes. My wife Kathy and I share a quilt pattern of hers (story of the Woman at the Well) as a missionary outreach to Venezuela. Be of good cheer Anne. Our work is not borne out of weakness but in use of our talents in service to the living God and father of our savior Jesus Christ.

This email may be shared if it glorifies our Lord and furthers his work. In his great name I write most sincerely to you tonight. Be of good cheer.

Clint Myrick, Eugene, OR

Posted 10/30/06

Dear Mrs. Rice,

I recently read your novel Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt and wanted to let you know that I really enjoyed it. I applaud your courage in writing it, given your previous novels and fan base. I confess that this was the first of your books that I have read because your vampire novels didn't really appeal to me. I was impressed by the way you were able to weave different elements of Old Testament stories and gospel narrative in a way that created a believeable "prequel" to the synoptic gospels. I especially appreciated reading your author's note at the conclusion of the novel and finding out more about your spiritual journey.

I am glad that you are able to use your creative gifts to help people reflect on Our Lord.

Thanks again,

Jonathan Peske
Redlands, CA

Posted 10/18/06

Dear Ms. Rice,

Let me join the many who are grateful for your talent. I recently re-read 'Lestat' and 'Pandora'. I was struck by how their agonized questions matched my own. Curious about your re-conversion, I looked you up on line and find I have so much to thank you for. I am a lifelong christian, (Episcopalian) who like your vampires has often felt a nihilistic despair - perhaps the thought of our age is correct; there is no God and hence no meaning. Yet I have never been able to stop loving the idea of a personal God as manifested in Jesus. He is the only God I want, the only one I can worship. When I read about your new book and your sources (I'm a big fan of Luke Timothy Johnson, by the way) I felt such relief and HOPE. There is an answer to Lestat's fear of death and meaninglessness, which is my own fear - and you have found it.  Your fresh witness restores my faith and hope, and the love for humanity your vampires evinced makes me ashamed; for I have so often felt we are just too stupid a species to survive, unworthy of this priceless planet. I now feel inspired to delight in my fellow humans; more able to love and forgive them - because of your vampires! How much more, then, do I look forward to reading all of your new series. Theology can only do so much; it is through the imagination of the poets that we can glimpse the beauty of God, why we love Him, why we need to. I trust to your formidable storytelling gift to make the Lord of my life live in my imagination.

Yours in Christ,
Deborah Keeting-Hansen
Sequim, WA

Posted 10/18/06

Dearest Anne,

I have been on so many wonderful and exotic journeys with you since the summer of 1989 when I as an extremely bored 17 year old who walked to my local library in search for something to read about Egypt. It was by chance that someone had mistakenly placed your book “The Mummy” in the non-fiction section for Egyptian Art and I was so intrigued by what I read on the back cover I checked it out. I had always loved to read but I had been somewhat put off of reading by having changed schools in the seventh grade due to being so stressed with the lack of books (and culture in general) in the school library and no local library in the town we moved to. It was only when my family returned to my hometown after I graduated high school that I felt the excitement of wanting to read again. Never did I know when I checked out your book that day that you would create a deep and unbreakable love of your literature in me but that you would also ignite a fire within me for literature in general that had never been as strong before. Later that summer I was in a book store when I happened across another book that’s title peeked my interest and it was “Interview with The Vampire” it wasn’t until I had purchased it and completely read the book that I realized it was written by the same author as “The Mummy”. From that day forward I purchased any book with your name on it and I have never been disappointed regardless of the subject. My first year in college was so much the better for having read your books. My English Literature instructor and I became fast friends because she was so thrilled with the volume of books I had read over the summer from my high school graduation and when asked if I had always read so many books I excitedly told her not before having read your work. I actually majored in fine art so I have not only enjoyed your books but also the covers on them over the years –Taltos was one of my favorites.

The style in which you write speaks directly to my heart and soul so goes without saying that when my husband went out of his way to pre-order me a signed copy of your book “Christ The Lord” for my birthday last November I was so overjoyed that I cried. Knowing what I had heard of your return to your faith in God was gift enough for me but the book, especially a signed copy, is a priceless treasure for me. Knowing you have such a devout attention to detail and historical accuracy made me bounce with joy at the prospect of reading it. Only recently was I finally able to devote quality time to reading it but without a doubt it was one of the most inspiring and uplifting books I have ever read. Since I was a small child I have always wondered what thoughts must have occurred to Christ as a child and it was so wonderful to see your impression of it. It has been a wonderful inspiration and has been the results of many great conversations with my husband on the subject. I am eager to learn if my former pastor and cherished friend has read you book because I find it highly unlikely he would derive anything but joy from it as he is loves literature but he also has your love of historical accuracy and attention to detail.

May God continue to bless you in all that you do and if it be His and your will I would love to read another book written by you following up where “Christ The Lord” left off. Thank you for all you have given me in my life.

With love,

Latasha R. Moore

Posted 9/6/06

I have read all of your books, even the early ones not published in your own name. I also read your son's books.

I thoroughly enjoyed "Christ the Lord". I read your books with great anticipation as I start them. The thing I love most is the good/evil and how thin the lines seem and how often it goes into very gray areas.

I once was checking out one of your books in the library. The librarian asked how can you read those creepy books? I took the time to explain to her that I always felt I had had a lesson in human morality and the search for divinity when I read your books.

To end. I love you writings. They have given me much pleasure. I lost my home in Hurricane Katrina and I sat in the fema trailer and revisited all my old friends in your books. Thank you.

Catherine Garriga

Posted 8/18/06

Dear Anne,

Thank you for your work over the years. Your latest book Christ the Lord has stirred something in me that really I still challenge as I write this. My own faith in God and Jesus Christ...but that's another story for me to work on.

In saying that, my favorite section in the book is the chapter with the roman soldiers and Old Sarah providing them with food and drink. When she blesses the men that could have persecuted her family, and their acceptance of her blessing, it felt euphoric. I could picture in my mind the power of her blessing in amongst the tension of the moment. Yep, pretty damn good.

Being an ancient history buff, I've always enjoyed your novels, especially those that relate mainly to beginnings e.g Queen of the Damned, Memnoch the Devil. So, just a quick thank you for your work and looking forward to your next book.

From a fan in Auckland, New Zealand.

cheers
Albert

Posted 8/10/06

Dear Anne, Thank you for this wonderful novel. It made me think of things that were only "holy pictures" in my mind before. It put reality into my quest. I have been trying to put it all together in my mind, trying to make sense of everything. This wonderful novel gave life and personality to the Holy Family, especially Joseph. I look forward with joy to the following books in this series.. Thank you again.

Posted 8/10/06

August 6--Transfiguration of the Lord

Dear Anne,

Thank you so much for your book ... Christ the Lord ... it will be a Christian Classic ... I am a chaplain at Mercy Hosptial in Scranton, PA ... We have a book club at our hospital and we are presently going through your book for reflection and discussion and then prayer ... so I wanted to write to let you know how deeply I appreciate the time and effort you put into this book about Jesus.

I want to wish you all the best in all that you do and I am proud you are a Catholic writer who isn't afraid to be a disciple of Jesus and a herald of good news.

Stay well and abundant blessings,

Fr. Joe Sica

Posted 8/10/06

Dear Mrs. Rice:

While I am not a legitimate scripture scholar or historian, I found your book fantastic, not only in its historical perspective, but most importantly in its theological speculation. As the Scriptures do not give us information on this time in the life of Jesus, I believe that your placement of things in their historical and social relevance have gone a long way in giving us something to think about. I know that you have fulfilled one of the tenants that I learned many years ago as a seminary student when the question arose as to how; in what manner that Jesus understood he was God. Given that we Catholics hold to the belief that he is both God and Man; not one more than the other, the best we can say is the Jesus knew he was God in so far as it was humanly possible for him to understand. With that thought in mind your work is right on target.

It is my hope that since there is plenty of time frame in the life of Jesus till we get to his public ministry covered by the Gospels that we will be seeing at least one if perhaps not two more volumes from you on this subject.

This is the first of your novels that I have read, though I have seen the movie version of “Interview.” I have strongly encouraged my congregation to read this work as I am seriously considering forming a discussion group around this topic and using your work as a reference.

Blessings and peace,

Fr. Gary P. Gummersheimer
Saint Andrew Catholic Church
Murphysboro, IL

Posted 7/27/06

Dear Ms. Rice,

I wanted to write you a note and tell you how incredibly moved I was by your novel Christ the Lord. I must confess that I never read any of your previous works and the only work of yours I was familiar with was the film "Interview with the Vampire," which I saw in the theatre when I was about 12 years old. I just happened to see Christ the Lord on display at a local bookstore and felt like I should read it.

Even though I have always felt that I have a close friendship with the Lord, I have often researched what life must have been like for him when he was growing up to help me understand him better. Christ the Lord has given me a glimpse into what his life must have been like in first century Jerusalem and Nazareth. Thanks to your novel, I feel like I know my friend a little more than I did before, and I thank you for that. I was also thrilled to read about aspects of Jesus' life that I never thought of before, like his relationship with James. It was an incredible experience to read this novel.

May God bless you and give you the strength, health, and courage to continue on your mission to write about our Lord. I am anxiously awaiting your next installment and will look forward to the planned film of Christ the Lord.

In Christ,
Anthony

Posted 7/27/06

Dear Anne Rice,

I've just finishing reading Christ The Lord Out of Egypt and I thought I should dash off a note to convey my gratitude. Your book marks a milestone in my faith journey. You've given me a sense of the Holy Family that I could not otherwise have entertained and I God bless you for it. If fiction is a lie in search of the truth, you have conveyed the Beautiful.

I've long been a fan of your writing and prize my autographed copy of Violin. Your sumptuous literary style and entrancing story lines have always engaged and entertained me, but Christ the Lord Out of Egypt is a transcendent experience. Thanks for taking me places I could not have gone without you.

Sincerely,

Albert Guzzo

Posted 7/27/06

Anne

I had never read any of your novels until "Christ Our Lord" appeared. Not for lack of trying though. I was very intrigued by your work and its genre, and did see some film adaptations. But whenever I tried to read them, an odd sensation would come upon me. It was dark and predatory and no matter how intriguing the story, I could never finish a single one. I hope you don't mind me saying these things. It is not a criticism of your work.

But on the journey you took me with "Christ Our Lord" I felt a strong sense of renewal, renewal that could only come through the heart of the author, and it poured itself onto the manuscript of your work. Yes, you have achieved a great feat in this novel. But it is this renewal, projected onto the reader, that makes its atmosphere and content outstanding.

All the best
Esther

Posted 7/14/06

Dear Anne,

I have been a big fan of yours for many years now, first as just a reader of vampire books and now as a reader and a manager of a bookstore. I have to confess when I heard that you were writing about Jesus I was a little worried. I love your books but I was afraid of what you would have to write about my Lord. I am a Christian and I wanted to be able to continue to enjoy the books that you write. I was so happy J after reading your latest book at what a wonderful job you did to show Jesus as a real human child and as our Lord!! Thank you. I have since been able to recommend your book to many of my Christian customers who were also a little worried and they have been very pleased with your book. I look forward to reading your next book in this series.

Lynne Washburn

Posted 7/14/06

Mrs. Rice,

I just finished "Christ the Lord". My wife had borrowed it from a neighbor who (ironically), is an Atheist from California. As someone who in the past had read "Lestat" and "Interview", I was puzzled that it was the same Anne Rice who now authored a book on Christ. I guessed correctly that you had returned to the Church. I apologize for not being an avid follower and offer my belated condolences for the loss of your husband.

Like you, I left all organized religion at a young age. To be honest, the message never resonated with me and the Lutheran services which I attended were long and agonizing. As an avid reader of history, I could never quite get the concept of a "just and true" God who allowed the horrible atrocities on the masses (especially the truly young and innocent) to happen century after century. In College at the University of Dayton, I debated Christianity with my religion professors, taking delight in choosing the side of Schopenhauer in his essay "on the Christian System" in his mockery of Martin Luther and his theory of "predestination and grace". Surely someone as intelligent as Schopenhauer could unmask the truth.

But now I move in the other direction. At 46, it is a book like yours that is helping me discover that I may be wrong. Although I've never doubted that Christ walked the Earth, I find that maybe, just maybe, he might have been the savior he claimed to be. Your line in the Authors Notes about, "the fact of the resurrection sending the Apostles out with the force necessary to cerate Christianity", really says it all. Here we are, 2000 years later, and he's as alive now as he's ever been. What incredible staying power!

I loved the book, what a creative and interesting idea. Your depiction of the adolescent Christ in the first person really brought him to life. His journey of self discovery was brilliant, it was exactly how someone could imagine Christ at that age; thoughtful, insightful, kind, loving, vulnerable, curious, strong, in fact, a leader before he was ten.

Thanks for taking the time to read this and good luck in your future writing.

Rick Wooliver
Cincinnati, Ohio

Posted 7/7/06

I have just finished reading your new book and feel compelled to let you know how much it moved me. To be honest, I picked-it up with some skepticism. Even though I have not read any of your previous works, I had the idea that you dealt in "negative" subjects that were not of interest to me. However, I saw your novel in a local super market book rack and was intrigued. How would you treat a subject so dear to me -- my Lord, Jesus. I think I wanted to believe that you were as in love with Him as I have grown to be. I was right!

Anne...I think you nailed so much in your book. If He was "a man in all things but sin", then He, like the rest of us, had to go through the same agonizing process that we all do in finding out how He fits into the tapestry of life and, more importantly, how He fits into the mysterious plans of our Creator. Your sensitive, touching, and biblically accurate portrait tells this story as it probably was.

I, too, am a Catholic Christian whose history is much like yours. I, too, am vitally interested in knowing more about him. Thanks for giving me a lot to chew on.

By the way, I'm a regular viewer of the EWTN television show, "Journey Home". It's hosted by Marcus Grodi and in an hour long interview format, lets converts and/or Catholics who have come back to the faith tell their stories. I can't help but think that your story is remarkable and would be something that could benefit the many sincere, questioning viewers who faithfully watch this show (people of all faiths and persuasions but sharing a "searching" heart). I know I'd love to see you on the program. Here's a link to his website. <http://www.chnetwork.org/ewtn.htm>http://www.chnetwork.org/ewtn.htm

Please keep up the good work. I look forward to reading future works. You've got a wonderful, sensitive heart and are extremely honest.

Name Withheld On Request

Posted 7/7/06

Dear Ms. Rice:

I've read Christ The Lord and would like to express my gratitude to you for letting the Lord move you to write this amazingÊnovel. Reading it was like one continuous prayer.

I especially liked how you had Jesus taking note ofÊthe little flowers in the field in Nazareth when he would lay on the grass. I was wondering if that detail wasÊin homage to St. Therese of Lisieux, the "LittleÊFlower" herself?

I've beenÊrecommending this novel to everybody I know. Last week the pastor of my church held Christ the Lord in his hand during his homily and praised it. He said that it helped him grow closer to Jesus and told everyone that this novelÊwas their "assigned reading" for Advent.

I've not read your other novels, but was deeply moved by your conversion story and made a point of reading this one as soon as it came out. Please let me know when the next installment in this series will be available to the public.

Thank you again. May the Lord bless you and your familyÊthis Advent season.

In Christ,

Lisa

Posted 7/7/06

Dear Ms. Rice

I just finished reading Christ the Lord and felt compelled to write you a letter. I don't normally write fan letters, but I was so moved by your book I wanted to share my feelings with you. I was raised Catholic and have continued that faith into my adult life, but that faith seemed until now to be at arm's lengh. I don't think I have ever really considered what it must have been like as a young Jesus Christ. The human face you put on Christ in your story, for the first time, opened my eyes to what the life of the young Christ and his family must have been like. Your book just seemed to make it more personal and has strengthened my faith. Thank you.

Name Withheld on Request

Posted 7/7/06

Hello Anne:

I just wanted to drop you a line to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt. I was looking for good Easter reading and had heard from some friends that your book was well-written and posed a very realistic perspective of what the early years of Jesus and his family might have been like (since the Bible is fairly quiet about that part of his life). I thought the way you integrated some information from the apocryphal writings into your research was very well done. All in all, I believe you have produced a wonderful gift for people of faith as well as for people of no faith who may be curious about Jesus and the world in which he lived. Thank you for that!

I have also read Interview with the Vampire and subsequent titles on that matter. They were enthralling and, in many ways, posed spiritually profound questions about the meaning of life and death. 

Finally, I just wanted to offer you a prayer and blessing on your renewed faith. It means much to me that your journey has brought you to the place where you find solace and meaning.

Blessings.

Fr. Perry Kavookjian
Fresno, CALIFORNIA

Posted