THE CHRONICLES OF VLADIMIR TOD: NINTH GRADE SLAYS by Heather Brewer

The adventures of Vlad continue. Starting high school has its own challenges, but when you're a vampire things can really get out of hand. NINTH GRADE SLAYS takes over where EIGHTH GRADE BITES leaves off.

There is an element of excitement about starting the new school year because that means Vlad will see Meredith more. After hesitating and missing out on what would have been a fabulous kiss, he's anxious to see if he's brave enough to let her know how stupid he was. Unfortunately, thoughts of Meredith are short-lived when Vlad finds himself facing a couple of bullies. They insist on making life miserable from day one.

Vlad's loyal friend and vampire drudge, Henry, is helpful as much as possible. Henry's cousin Joss moves in and he and Vlad become fast friends. Other complications arise when Eddie, an eager reporter for the school newspaper, starts following Vlad and raising suspicion that he might not be the regular, run-of-the-mill high school kid he appears to be.

Vlad also discovers that his high school education is not the only education he will receive. His Uncle Otis returns and tells Vlad to pack his things. They take off for a week in Siberia where Vlad meets an ancient vampire and finds out some of the secrets of vampire power. It's a good thing, too, because on his return to Bathory, things really begin to heat up.

The second novel in the CHRONICLES series shows a more serious side to Vlad and the life he is just beginning to understand. Learning more about his power may seem fun, but it also becomes evident that those powers will be essential to his very survival. YA readers with a love of vampires are sure to enjoy this series.