Darren Shan's adventure as a Vampire Prince continues in volume seven of the series. The war that was foretold by Mr. Tiny has begun. The Vampaneze Lord has arisen and is trying to bring about the destruction of the Vampires. So far, the Vampires are holding their own, but with the Vampaneze Lord's invention of a new breed of half vampires called Vampets, it is getting more difficult for Darren and his followers. It is up to Darren, Larten Crepsley, and the illusive Vampire Prince Vancha March to create a plan to find the Vampaneze Lord and destroy him before it is too late. Mr. Tiny offers the Vampires a small clue when he tells them that they have five chances to kill the Vampaneze Lord, and they have already wasted one by killing Kurdha Smahlt, but Mr. Tiny will not say more. His only advice is to "follow their hearts." Of course, their hearts take them to the Cirque du Freak and Lady Evanna, who has a very disturbing prophecy about Darren. This installment is a must-read for fans of the series. They will not be able to put it down. The prologue at the beginning of the book is great for providing the background of Cirque du Freak for those who are unfamiliar with the series. The story itself is enthralling and will create instant Darren Shan fans of any new readers. As with all books in the series, the cliffhanger ending will leave readers desperate for the next chapter of the Darren Shan saga.