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Hmn. On the one hand, I think the writing, the prose itself, in Merrick is a return to form. Rice is known for her insanely purple prose, and I think it works in this one as it did in Interview. I didn't cringe at the writing as I did through Armand. Merrick's flow felt natural and lush. Perfect Rice. I also love the framing plot, with Louis and David approaching a witch to help raise Claudia' ghost. I didn't even mind that 90% of the book was Merrick's backstory that you might or might not care about. Overall, I think it's just fine as a standalone book.
On the other hand... if you have any investment in the characters as they were portrayed prior to this book, then you will probably be left somewhat befuddled. Characters, particularly Louis, Lestat, and David (you know, the ones you actually care about), actively subvert their previous characterizations, which I found frustrating. There were revelations about David and Louis (and Claudia) that I really question. Also, I don't know why the world's gayest vampires are all so obsessed with Merrick's breasts to the point of mentioning them every other paragraph-- not an exaggeration. Okay, so the writing isn't perfect and, yes, Anne, even you need an editor. I could have bought and maybe even liked the new love story if more effort had been given to developing it. I wish more of the book had been given to developing the framing plot, period.