I had just finished reading DRACULA (after seeing numerous films I thought it was time I read the book) and was hoping for another good Stoker read with LAIR OF THE WHITE WORM....was I disappointed! The characterizations were weak, insipid immitations of Jonathan Harker, Mina Murray Harker, Lucy Westenra and Dr. Van Helsing, not to mention Lady Arabella/The White Worm, who couldn't begin to compare to Count Dracula! There's a ridiculous subplot where Lilla (derived from Lucy) is needlessly sacrificed, as well as mongooses dying left and right, which was just plain silly!I'm planning to read JEWEL OF THE SEVEN STARS, hope I have better luck this time!