Rating: 
Summary: Re-reading this book for the nth time!
Review: I've read many of Anne Rice's novels, and this is one of my absolute favorites. No vampires, no witches, no mummies, this delectable piece of historical fiction is populated by mere humans--but is powered by the complex characters, and our curiosity about how events shape their psyches. The reader is drawn into Anne Rice's lush world of Italian aristocracy, from the decadence of Venice to the earthiness of Naples. The intrigue of castrati and their place in this society are also a major plus--who would have ever thought to write about that?
Rating:
Summary: By far, the best Ann Rice has written to date.
Review: I am an avid Ann Rice fan. I have read virtually EVERYTHING this author has written, even the work under the pen name, Ann Rampling. Although there are few of her books that I have not read in one sitting; spell-binding as they were, I have not enjoyed any of them as much as I enjoyed Cry to Heaven. This book is vastly different from her Mayfair Witches or Vampire Chronicles work. The story gives a historical perspective of the Italian castrati; a group of young boys who showed musical promise. At around age eight or so, they would be castrated, against their wills, and taken to monastaries; living their lives in the development of their musical careers which started out as being singers for the Pope and which hopefully led them to the Italian opera houses. The story weaves its way sensually into the life of one such young boy and follows him into adulthood where he achieves the highest level of honour for a castrati, singing in the most prestigeous opera houses of the day. He is the toast of the Italian opera world but his soul is tortured. This book is one of only a very few which I have read and re-read any number of times. It is a delight for the reader who enjoys sensuality with a taste of history. Of note is the fact that there are actual recordings of the main character available to further enhance one's understanding of the world of the Italian castrati and their contribution to the musical world. This book is a must-read for Rice fans and is too often passed over because it does not belong to any of the "series" types. What a mistake to ignore it!
Rating:
Summary: I cried
Review: For only the second time in my life, I cried while reading a book. Immense emotion, intense scenes, great plot, everything you could hope for. If you can get over the disgust some may feel at the very first scene, then you are in for a treat. If you cannot, then it is your loss.
Rating:
Summary: It's a Toss - Up!
Review: Well, I just have to say that she did it again. I can't believe how much I learn when I read some of Anne Rice's books. This one made me do a bit of research about opera history, something I never thought I'd ever even think about. I am also glad the afterword mentioned what it based Tonio's events and debut's on. Thank's for the enlightenment Anne!
Rating:
Summary: a symphony of darkness and light blending into pure beauty
Review: anne rice has done it again. In Cry To Heaven, we meet a cast of characters that epitomize beauty. Despite the darkness lurking behind each and every corner, the pure innocence of the eunichs creates a blissful symphony of beauty.
Rating:
Summary: One of Anne Rice's Best
Review: After having read nearly all of Anne Rice's books and after falling in love with nearly all of her characters, especially Louis and Lestat, I expected nothing less than Anne Rice perfection in this book and she delivered absolute perfection. The tale is original and intoxicating. And, as always, the characters are amazing! I praise Anne Rice once again for her marvelous work!
Rating:
Summary: Excellent story, it made me want to learn more on the subjec
Review: I have read this book at least three times and each time I find more about it to enjoy. I've always been a fan of Ms. Rice's books, but this is one of her biggest triumphs. She doesn't make use of the supernatural as the foundation for the story. The character of Tonio Treschi may be the heart of the story, but it is Guido who truly captures the essence of sorrow and loss central to the premise. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history of the opera.
Rating:
Summary: Cry To Heaven
Review: I think this is one of the greatest books I have ever read! So many people learn thier 'history' lessons in school, but don't stop long enough to realize that the heroes of history were also human: they ate, drank, and had all of the human emotions that we have today. And, yes, they had 'closets', too. I saw the review from the 'gay basher', and I really feel sorry for them. I, too am 'straight', but I think that Mrs. Rice has done the most awesome job I have ever seen of any historian actually tell the truth of what happened in this period in history.
THANK YOU, MRS. RICE!, for being bold enough and strong enough to tell the truth. This is probably how it happened during this time period in their day-to-day life.
As I read I felt as though I were there. I could see each scene unfold. Thank you.
I was so excited about this book I bought an extra copy and gave it to my best friend and he loved it!
Thank again, and I feel sorry for all of the closed-minded people who were (and are) unable to enjoy this work. It is a masterpiece.
Rating:
Summary: This is one of the best books I have read in years.
Review: This is an excellent book. Different from her other books and characters, Anne Rice's novel set in the Italian world of opera is one that makes you laugh and weep all at the same time. There are few books that can move you to tears without making the events sad or depressing. This is definitely a book not to be missed. The subject matter may turn some people off, but if you "don't judge a book by its cover" (or subject matter), then you will truly find this a thoroughly enjoyable and profound book. I have recommended this particular book to all of my friends and would recommend this book to a stranger on the street as well.
Rating:
Summary: Just simply the greatest.
Review: One of the best books ever written. How could anyone not like it?
| 
