I bet there were some great writers who were abolute fruitcakes. I can't think of anyone but I would put hard earned money on a bet with you about that. Not that I'm saying Anne Rice is a great writer. These books were dated when I started reading them, and rereading them now it's even more.
Besides, two weeks ago I didn't even know that vampires were real so I'm having to adjust some of my pre-conceived vampire ideas. But it's coming along!