Good morning -- this is my first Anne Rice book so I really can't comment on her works before or after her leaving the catholic faith. As a former catholic myself, I completely understand her reasons for leaving. Many of those issues are why my family and I left. My sister-in-law was recently ordained in the universal unitarian church. It embraces all faiths and life styles and I feel most at home there.
Was thinking about this overnight (answering my own questions LOL) -- the reason the aunts kept Diedra in a drug induced state and had Rowan adopted was because they wanted to get rid of Lasher. They wanted to break the cycle/curse. But then why wouldn't they ask for help from the Talamasca (spelling)? I'm sure they know of them. You would think that they would welcome the help.
Hope everyone has a great day -- I'll try and check in later tonight
PS Good Luck Jdlovr07! Is this your first?