While the writing style was still spectacular, I didn't go quite as gaga over VAMPIRE MOUNTAIN as I have over the 3 previous Cirque Du Freak books. The plot arc was more a haphazard heart rate monitor than a simple 5 act triangle. A lot of questions and potential conflicts were raised, but then obviously shelved for books later in the series. The bear fight pictured on the cover was indeed heart-racing, but then so were various events at Vampire Mountain, once they snuck in. Put that all together and VAMPIRE MOUNTAIN seems like an obvious in-between book, where one overarching series arc ends (Darren adjusting to being a vampire) and another begins (Darren & the Vampire Princes).

The drawbacks of the book are not enough to stop reading the series. It's still soooooooo cool and I'm still in love with the simple writing relaying complex emotional journeys. Also, Darren is still adorable. I'm a little sad there's less Ezra, but it's understandable why our favorite snake-man stays with the cirque while Darren and his Dork Vampire Dad go their family reunion. Unfortunately, I can't immediately pick up the next due to MFA shenanigans, but, just like the undead, I will return!