Birth of a Killer (The Saga of Larten Crepsley) - Softcover

Shan, Darren

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0732291100 ISBN 13: 9780732291105

Publisher: HarperCollins Children's, 2010

Synopsis

Following the massive success that began with Cirque du Freak, Darren Shan is back where it all started - telling the life story of the vampire Larten Crepsley. For every vampire, the end ...is just the beginning. When terrible events force young Larten Crepsley to flee his home he finds himself alone in the world. Then he meets the mysterious Seba Nile, who introduces him to the ways of the vampire clan. But will Larten turn his back on humanity and join a world from which there can be no return? So begins the blood-soaked tale of a vampire who starts out a nobody - but will change the world forever...'Cirque Du Freak is a thrill ride that will keep even the most reluctant readers turning pages'. Amazon (US) 'The gripping plot moves forward at a lightning pace, and Darren's fascination with the grotesque will ring true for many'. Booklist '...compelling...[T]he author mines the exploitative history of early 20th century sideshows to create an artfully macabre cirque du freak.' Publishers Weekly 'Entertaining story', writes The Examiner.

About this title

Review:

“His writing is slick, his dialogue sharp and clever, his plotting immaculate. His books ooze with the kind of creepy, dark atmosphere and powerful characters that young teenage readers lap up. Shan is honing his craft with every book, and I look forward to the next gore-fest with relish.”
Irish Independent

“Forget Stephen King, this author's the master of scaring children.” The Big Issue in Scotland

“A tantalising start to the series and a must-read for Darren Shan fans.”
Books Quarterly

Praise for Cirque Du Freak:

“...fast-paced and compelling book ...full of satisfyingly macabre touches...which leaves the reader hungry for more.”
JK Rowling

“Brilliant, macabre tale.”
Guardian

"I read Cirque Du Freak last week. I loved it. I love the way you manage to juggle the funny with the unpleasant, the affection with the hurt. It's great story-telling."
Roddy Doyle

Praise for The Vampire’s Assistant:

“The Vampire’s Assistant blazes a thrilling, gruesome trail through a fascinating plot.”
The Good Book Guide

Praise for Vampire Mountain:

“Get your teeth into it!”
Funday Times

About the Author:

Darren Shan is the author of the monsterific ten book series known as 'The Demonata' and the twelve book vampire series 'The Saga of Darren Shan'. His adventures have been read by millions of people around the world in several different languages, yet much of his life remains shrouded in mystery. He lives in seclusion in the depths of Ireland. And he never drinks blood. Or so he claims.

About this edition

• Publisher: HarperCollins Children's
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 0732291100
• ISBN 13: 9780732291105
• Binding: Paperback