>Review of Ninth Grade Slays by Heather Brewer

fiction

by Caroline C | on January 31st, 2011 | 0 comments

If middle school stunk for Vladimir Tod, high school is a real drain. Besides being a punching bag for bullies, he’s still stalled with dream girl Meredith, and he’s being tailed by a photographer from the school newspaper. Needless to say, practicing his vampire skills hasn’t exactly been a priority for Vlad — until now. A monumental trip to Siberia with Uncle Otis is Vlad’s crash course in Vampire 101. Training alongside the most gifted vampires is exactly what Vlad needs to sharpen those mind-control skills he’s been avoiding. And he’d better get it right, because the battle brewing back home with the slayer who’s been stalking him could be Vlad’s last. (From Goodreads)

I thought this one was much better than the first. I think because there’s more to the story and plenty of background information provided. Although a little predictable, (especially when it came to who was the vampire slayer in the neighborhood) it was a fun read and interesting to go through.

What I found especially interesting is the slight cracks you see that will eventually come to the surface and quite possibly create problems for Vlad. For example; his friendship with Henry. It’s good, but you notice Henry’s changed a bit. He’s hanging out with the popular kids more and Vlad is just on the sidelines being the observer. I’m not entirely sure if I like this change in Henry. He’s such a great guy and provided the comic relief in the series. If he turns out to be a jerk I’d be sorely disappointed. Let’s not forget the other vampires that are hounding Vlad down, and the vampire slayer that’s out for him. It looks like Vlad is about to have a lot on his plate soon enough. This is what I liked about the story so far. There’s underlying problems which are bound to explode sooner or later and this is what makes me want to continue reading the series until its’ conclusion.

I had to admit I went all mushy with Vlad and Meredith. They do make a cute couple despite Meredith being a “Barbie” (ie; always described with the color pink) which I think is the total exact opposite of what Vlad would like. Then again, I suppose it’s interesting that they both like each other despite their high school “labels”.

I’m definitely looking forward to the next one in this series. The ending got me curious as to what’s in store for Vlad.

Note: It is greatly recommended that you read Eighth Grade Bites first before diving into this one.