A great horror novel that was nominated for the World Fantasy Award for the year it was published. It is, in many ways, the finest vampire novel set in the historical United States—in fact, it’s certainly superior to Anne Rice’s over-rated Interview with a Vampire. Martin’s grasp of atmosphere is impressive and does much to make the story alive. His take on the life of vampires, and particularly his depiction of the relationship between a vampire and a fat, rough but honest southern riverboat captain, is fascinating and without parallel in the sub-genre of vampire horror. Finally, like Mark Twain before him, the author has a clear knowledge and love of the by-gone days of steamboats on the great American rivers which shows itself in his description of the times and the landscapes. Alternately horrifying and touching, the novel is a testament to Martin’s craftsmanship.