Lament of the Lamb

The members of the Takashiro family share a terrible curse: a thirst that only human blood can slake. Sent away after the death of her mother, Kazuna Takashiro has long lived with that hunger. The premise is a gothic horror about a family's inherited curse and a young woman trying to keep her monstrous nature under control.The strength is the atmosphere. The gothic mood is strong, and Kazuna's loneliness is drawn with sympathy. The tension between her humanity and her hunger gives the story emotional weight.The weaknesses are about the darkness and age. The themes are disturbing, and the art and pacing reflect the mid-nineties. Readers wanting lighter fare will find it hard going.Recommended for fans of gothic horror with a tragic heroine. Expect a dark, moody read that rewards its atmosphere.