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The Saga of Larten Crepsley #2
Ocean of Blood
Before Larten Crepsley was a vampire general...Before he was Darren Shan's master... Before the War of Scars...Larten Crepsley was a teenager. And he was sick of the pomp and circumstance of fusty old vampires telling him what to do. Taking off on his own with his blood brother, Wester, Larten takes off into the world to see what his newly blooded vampire status can get him in the human world. Sucking all he can out of humanity, Larten stumbles into a violent, hedonistic lifestyle, where cheats beckon, power corrupts, and enemies are waiting. This is his story.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
137 people are currently reading
2854 people want to read
About the author
Darren Shan
243 books8,273 followersLibrarian's note: Also writes books for adults under the name Darren Dash. And in the past he has released books for adults under the names D.B. Shan and Darren O'Shaughnessy.
Darren Shan (born July 2, 1972 in London, England) is the pen name of the Irish author Darren O'Shaughnessy, as well as the name of the protagonist of his book series The Saga of Darren Shan, also known as The Cirque Du Freak Series in the United States. He is the author of the series The Demonata, The Saga of Larten Crepsley, and Zom-B. He has also released the stand-alone novel, The Thin Executioner, and the stand-alone short novels, Koyasan, and Hagurosan. Plus, for adults, he released The City Trilogy (originally under the name of D.B. Shan), and Lady of the Shades..
Darren Shan (born July 2, 1972 in London, England) is the pen name of the Irish author Darren O'Shaughnessy, as well as the name of the protagonist of his book series The Saga of Darren Shan, also known as The Cirque Du Freak Series in the United States. He is the author of the series The Demonata, The Saga of Larten Crepsley, and Zom-B. He has also released the stand-alone novel, The Thin Executioner, and the stand-alone short novels, Koyasan, and Hagurosan. Plus, for adults, he released The City Trilogy (originally under the name of D.B. Shan), and Lady of the Shades..
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September 18, 2018
خوب بود.
دارن شان نويسنده خوبيه و سعى ميكنم همه كتاباش رو بخونم و در زمينه نمره دادن به كتاباش هم سخت گيري نميكنم.
با اينكه ٢٠٠ صفحه اول تعريفي نداشت ولي ١٠٠ صفحه پايانى واقعا جذاب شد.
خلاصه اينكه به اين مجموعه اميد وار شدم
دارن شان نويسنده خوبيه و سعى ميكنم همه كتاباش رو بخونم و در زمينه نمره دادن به كتاباش هم سخت گيري نميكنم.
با اينكه ٢٠٠ صفحه اول تعريفي نداشت ولي ١٠٠ صفحه پايانى واقعا جذاب شد.
خلاصه اينكه به اين مجموعه اميد وار شدم
December 15, 2022
یه ترجمه پرررر از سانسور و سوتی. اصلا آدم فشار میخوره. یعنی توی کتاب ژانر وحشت بیای صحنههای خون و خونریزی رو سانسور کنی... حالا به مشروب خوردنهای لارتن و بوسه و اینا کاری ندارم.
فقط چون توی کتابخونهمون داره خاک میخوره ادامه میدم...حیف پول.
فقط چون توی کتابخونهمون داره خاک میخوره ادامه میدم...حیف پول.
April 30, 2015
انتهای این کتاب انصافا شوک آور بود.خصوصا ماجرای دانیل ...
اما بخشی از کتاب که قابل تامل بود :
لارتن فکر کرد که صدای تیک تیک مبهمی می شنود -شاید صدای تیک تیک یک ساعت - اما نمی توانست محل آن را تشخیص دهد.
ایوانا با صدای ملایمی گفت:« ساعت های سرنوشت همه جا دور و بر ما هستند. اما بعضی ها بیشتر از دیگران توجه ها را جلب می کنند.» خیره به مالورا نگاه کرد، در قیافه اش حالت معذبی پدیدار شد....
ادامه داد :« الان وقتش نیست که برای رهاوردهای آینده نگران بشویم. بیا چیزی بخوریم و شاد باشیم. سرنوشت تو هم به وقتش خودش را نشان می دهد، همان طور که همیشه نشان داده.اما دفعه ی دیگر که نگران مسیرِ پیش گرفته در زندگی شدی، به این فکر کن: ما همیشه در همان جاده ای سفر می کنیم و پیش می رویم که باید برویم.شاید فکر کنی راهت را گم کرده ای، اما هیچ کس هرگز پایش را از جاده ی سرنوشت بیرون نمی گذارد.تردیدها همیشه در انتظارت هستند. بپذیرشان و با آنها کنار بیا تا راهت را - راهی را که سرنوشت از تو انتظار دارد پی بگیری - پیدا کنی.»
ایوانا با لحن گرفته ای حرفهایش را تمام کرد:« آخرش خوب باشد یا بد.» دیگر چیزی نگفت، و تا مدتی طولانی لارتن را به حال خود گذاشت تا شاید از زمزمه های عجیب و غریب اوسر درآورد.
صفحه 200 , 201 - دریای خون - حماسه کرپسلی 2
اما بخشی از کتاب که قابل تامل بود :
لارتن فکر کرد که صدای تیک تیک مبهمی می شنود -شاید صدای تیک تیک یک ساعت - اما نمی توانست محل آن را تشخیص دهد.
ایوانا با صدای ملایمی گفت:« ساعت های سرنوشت همه جا دور و بر ما هستند. اما بعضی ها بیشتر از دیگران توجه ها را جلب می کنند.» خیره به مالورا نگاه کرد، در قیافه اش حالت معذبی پدیدار شد....
ادامه داد :« الان وقتش نیست که برای رهاوردهای آینده نگران بشویم. بیا چیزی بخوریم و شاد باشیم. سرنوشت تو هم به وقتش خودش را نشان می دهد، همان طور که همیشه نشان داده.اما دفعه ی دیگر که نگران مسیرِ پیش گرفته در زندگی شدی، به این فکر کن: ما همیشه در همان جاده ای سفر می کنیم و پیش می رویم که باید برویم.شاید فکر کنی راهت را گم کرده ای، اما هیچ کس هرگز پایش را از جاده ی سرنوشت بیرون نمی گذارد.تردیدها همیشه در انتظارت هستند. بپذیرشان و با آنها کنار بیا تا راهت را - راهی را که سرنوشت از تو انتظار دارد پی بگیری - پیدا کنی.»
ایوانا با لحن گرفته ای حرفهایش را تمام کرد:« آخرش خوب باشد یا بد.» دیگر چیزی نگفت، و تا مدتی طولانی لارتن را به حال خود گذاشت تا شاید از زمزمه های عجیب و غریب اوسر درآورد.
صفحه 200 , 201 - دریای خون - حماسه کرپسلی 2
July 5, 2021
به به. عجب داستانی. چه روند دلنشینی.
از اینکه نویسنده تلاش نمیکنه تا کارهای بد لارتن رو توجیه کنه. این مجموعه حقیقتا داستان زندگی یه آدم معمولیه. گاهی بده و گاهی خوبه. البته اکثر اوقات بده و این برای من دلچسبه.
از اینکه نویسنده تلاش نمیکنه تا کارهای بد لارتن رو توجیه کنه. این مجموعه حقیقتا داستان زندگی یه آدم معمولیه. گاهی بده و گاهی خوبه. البته اکثر اوقات بده و این برای من دلچسبه.
August 17, 2021
به خود کتاب میشه ۴ از پنج داد ولی متاسفانه به نسخه ترجمه شده خانم کریمی ۲ از ۵
با بررسی کتاب اصلی و نسخه ترجمه متوجه میشید قسمت هایی از کتاب به متن اصلی وفادار نبوده ( حتی جاهایی که حقیقتا نیازی به تغییر و ممیزی نداره...)
با بررسی کتاب اصلی و نسخه ترجمه متوجه میشید قسمت هایی از کتاب به متن اصلی وفادار نبوده ( حتی جاهایی که حقیقتا نیازی به تغییر و ممیزی نداره...)
November 20, 2020
بر لبۀ پرتگاه
دارن شان پس از شروعِ نسبتاً موفّقِ مجموعۀ «حماسۀ کرپسلی» در «تولّدِ یک قاتل،» در این کتاب به شرحِ ادامۀ زندگیِ شبحگونۀ لارتن کرپسلی میپردازد. وقایعِ اصلیِ «دریایِ خون» را دورانِ بهاصطلاح «تولگی» لارتن کرپسلی تشکیل میدهد. دورانی که در آن اشباحِ غالباً جوان پس از به ستوه آمدن از سختیهایِ زندگیِ شبحیِ خود سعی میکنند قبیلۀ اشباح را ترک گفته، در دنیایِ انسانهایِ معمولی به زندگی ادامه داده و با استفاده (و گاهی سوءاستفاده) از قدرتهایِ مافوقبشریِ خود لحظاتِ خوشی برایِ خود رقم زنند.
روایت از شیوۀ خوبی برخوردار است. همانگونه که دور از انتظار هم نبود، دارن شان به هر نحوی توانسته است مخاطب را همچنان پایِ مجموعۀ خود نگه دارد، هرچند رغبتِ ایجادشده در او به اندازۀ «قصّههایِ سرزمینِ اشباح» نباشد. تنها نگرانیای که این مجموعه در ذهنِ مخاطب بروز میدهد ورطۀ اخلاقی است که نویسنده بر لبۀ پرتگاهِ آن نه تنها قدم زده بلکه با شتاب درحالِ حرکت است. این مسئله جایی خطرناکتر میشود که مخاطبِ اصلیِ مجموعه را نوجوانان و جوانان تشکیل داده باشند. هرچند برخی کوشیدهاند وقایعِ کتاب (علیالخصوص حادثۀ دریایِ خونین) را از منظری متفاوت نگریسته و حامیِ اخلاق تلقّی کنند. امّا به نظر میرسد که حدّاقل مخاطبانِ اصلیِ کتاب با خواندنِ آن بهسادگی به لایههایِ زیرینِ موردنظرِ این دسته از منتقدان پی نبرند.
سیاقِ نوشتههایِ دارن شان این مطلب را که وی بنا به سبکِ ادبیّاتِ مدرن تنها روایتِ بدونِ قضاوت را بر عهده گرفته باشد و الباقی را موکول به خواننده و برداشتِ او از متن نماید تا حدّ بالایی رد میکند. امّا بههرحال، مقصودِ نویسنده هر کدام از این دو مورد (احیایِ اخلاق یا افسادِ آن) بوده باشد، قسمتهایِ باقیمانده از مجموعه فرصتِ خوبی برایِ تأکید بر آنها و یا اصلاحِ آنهاست.
دارن شان پس از شروعِ نسبتاً موفّقِ مجموعۀ «حماسۀ کرپسلی» در «تولّدِ یک قاتل،» در این کتاب به شرحِ ادامۀ زندگیِ شبحگونۀ لارتن کرپسلی میپردازد. وقایعِ اصلیِ «دریایِ خون» را دورانِ بهاصطلاح «تولگی» لارتن کرپسلی تشکیل میدهد. دورانی که در آن اشباحِ غالباً جوان پس از به ستوه آمدن از سختیهایِ زندگیِ شبحیِ خود سعی میکنند قبیلۀ اشباح را ترک گفته، در دنیایِ انسانهایِ معمولی به زندگی ادامه داده و با استفاده (و گاهی سوءاستفاده) از قدرتهایِ مافوقبشریِ خود لحظاتِ خوشی برایِ خود رقم زنند.
روایت از شیوۀ خوبی برخوردار است. همانگونه که دور از انتظار هم نبود، دارن شان به هر نحوی توانسته است مخاطب را همچنان پایِ مجموعۀ خود نگه دارد، هرچند رغبتِ ایجادشده در او به اندازۀ «قصّههایِ سرزمینِ اشباح» نباشد. تنها نگرانیای که این مجموعه در ذهنِ مخاطب بروز میدهد ورطۀ اخلاقی است که نویسنده بر لبۀ پرتگاهِ آن نه تنها قدم زده بلکه با شتاب درحالِ حرکت است. این مسئله جایی خطرناکتر میشود که مخاطبِ اصلیِ مجموعه را نوجوانان و جوانان تشکیل داده باشند. هرچند برخی کوشیدهاند وقایعِ کتاب (علیالخصوص حادثۀ دریایِ خونین) را از منظری متفاوت نگریسته و حامیِ اخلاق تلقّی کنند. امّا به نظر میرسد که حدّاقل مخاطبانِ اصلیِ کتاب با خواندنِ آن بهسادگی به لایههایِ زیرینِ موردنظرِ این دسته از منتقدان پی نبرند.
سیاقِ نوشتههایِ دارن شان این مطلب را که وی بنا به سبکِ ادبیّاتِ مدرن تنها روایتِ بدونِ قضاوت را بر عهده گرفته باشد و الباقی را موکول به خواننده و برداشتِ او از متن نماید تا حدّ بالایی رد میکند. امّا بههرحال، مقصودِ نویسنده هر کدام از این دو مورد (احیایِ اخلاق یا افسادِ آن) بوده باشد، قسمتهایِ باقیمانده از مجموعه فرصتِ خوبی برایِ تأکید بر آنها و یا اصلاحِ آنهاست.
June 5, 2011
It has been a long time since I've written a review, so I will write one.
So basically, I read this book being a fan of all Darren Shan books, and this book did not fail to impress me!
This book is a vampire book. Yes, a VAMPIRE book! I am sick of vampire books myself, but Darren Shan's books are different,no matter how the book may sound cliched. Especially when it comes to the terms: Vampires, werewolves, angels....
So this book is amazing. It has great characters. It is written in third person point of view, unlike Darren Shan's other books. I honestly prefer first person, but a good book is a good book, no matter what point of view it is written in.
The book has a wonderful story, it shows the story of the vampire, Larten Crepsley (who previously appeared in the Saga of Darren Shan), since his childhood until he meets Darren.
The story has lovable characters, is full of twists and turns and will keep you reading. Isn't that what you want in a book??
Do not hesitate reading this book, but read book 1, Birth of a Killer. This is the second book.
So basically, I read this book being a fan of all Darren Shan books, and this book did not fail to impress me!
This book is a vampire book. Yes, a VAMPIRE book! I am sick of vampire books myself, but Darren Shan's books are different,no matter how the book may sound cliched. Especially when it comes to the terms: Vampires, werewolves, angels....
So this book is amazing. It has great characters. It is written in third person point of view, unlike Darren Shan's other books. I honestly prefer first person, but a good book is a good book, no matter what point of view it is written in.
The book has a wonderful story, it shows the story of the vampire, Larten Crepsley (who previously appeared in the Saga of Darren Shan), since his childhood until he meets Darren.
The story has lovable characters, is full of twists and turns and will keep you reading. Isn't that what you want in a book??
Do not hesitate reading this book, but read book 1, Birth of a Killer. This is the second book.
January 21, 2018
Well that was bloody intense... pun intended (thankyou) Larten is at the lowest point of his young vampire life in this, the second of the four book series in the Larten crepsley adventures. Without any friends, guidance or even a clear head, our favourite orange haired vampire is travelling the world without a sense of direction or purpose.
In by far the darkest book of the series, and once of the darkest in Shans vampire books, we get a look into some of the foolhardy mistakes Larten made which helped him to eventually become the level headed and wise vampire who trained Darren Shan.
If we can get this same level of incredible adventure from the rest of the series, I would be one very happy shanster. There's blood, there are goofs, there are many excellent characters to love and hate so do enjoy the first half of the Larten crepsley books and the dawn of part two.
In by far the darkest book of the series, and once of the darkest in Shans vampire books, we get a look into some of the foolhardy mistakes Larten made which helped him to eventually become the level headed and wise vampire who trained Darren Shan.
If we can get this same level of incredible adventure from the rest of the series, I would be one very happy shanster. There's blood, there are goofs, there are many excellent characters to love and hate so do enjoy the first half of the Larten crepsley books and the dawn of part two.
dnf
July 29, 2025DNF'd @ page 40
-honestly loved this book so much but toooo many things got in the way of me reading, leading to a hugeeee gap in time. I would rather read this book again after re-reading the first one for a refresh :(
THIS FOR SURE ISN'T GOODBYE 💔
-honestly loved this book so much but toooo many things got in the way of me reading, leading to a hugeeee gap in time. I would rather read this book again after re-reading the first one for a refresh :(
THIS FOR SURE ISN'T GOODBYE 💔
March 21, 2022
“Wars raged everywhere as men found new, inventive ways to kill even more of their race. It was like a contest, the many tribes of mankind competing to see who could commit the worst atrocities.”
An excellent read that finally shined the light on how Larten got the scar on his face. I love how the author is relaying all details of Larten's past while still being able to skip decades.
I found the ending very interesting and brutal - I'm honestly surprised that this particular ending got approved to be in a young adult's book.
An excellent read that finally shined the light on how Larten got the scar on his face. I love how the author is relaying all details of Larten's past while still being able to skip decades.
I found the ending very interesting and brutal - I'm honestly surprised that this particular ending got approved to be in a young adult's book.
January 14, 2020
Review on BookLover
In this second book, we see Larten and Wester staying with the Cubs, living life to the fullest before having to be part of the Clan and leave every human trait behind. We see Larten struggling with his life, a young Vampire who is not yet the Mr. Crepsley we met in the Cirque du Freak series.
And we see him trying to keep at bay his mixed blood, his evil and terrible side.
The reading slump got me right when I was reading this book, and it was hell because I REALLY love what I read so far by Darren Shan. I finally forced myself to continue, and I did not regret it.
I admit that the first few chapters were a bit slow, and nothing much happened action-wise. But it does get better from Part Two on.
In this book, we meet characters that are present in the Cirque du Freak series as their younger selves, and yet we see what they'll become and how.
I think the keyword of this book is "struggle", in particular Larten's. He's still young, still not sure of what he really wants, wandering like a lost puppy with a terrible temper. Really, he seems like such a different character than Darren's teacher. And yet, I found it quite interesting. The growth I saw and I expect in the next two books is immense, and I do not think I will be disappointed. It'll probably be sad, though. I'll get the tissues ready.
In this second installment, Larten meets characters we know from the Saga of Darren Shan, some for the first time. I'm speaking mostly about Evanna and Arra, and, well, Vancha.
I keep disliking Evanna, honestly. She's just... I don't know how to describe her. I can see there is some good in her, but, in this book, Evanna is even more strict and annoying than when I read of her in the Cirque du Freak!
What REALLY surprised me in this book was Arra! We never knew her backstory in the original series, and when she appeared for the first time I couldn't believe it. She's a long way from becoming the Vampiress I love and revere, and I really did not expect to meet her in those circumstances. I don't really know what to expect... Maybe a story similar to Larten's, maybe something different. But not what I was given. Not that it is bad, just unexpected.
And Vancha! Well... Apart from being a General and not a Prince, he's just his disgusting, handsome self. I love him so much and I am sorry for what the future has in store for him.
I do wish we knew more about Malora, even though her feelings for Larten were a bit.... meh. She was so young, how could she know that love truly is? How could she sacrifice her life to stay with and protect a man that clearly didn't see her in such a light? I'm sorry for how her story ended, it was gruesome and unfair, but her name in Italian is a bit telling, and even if I knew Darren Shan couldn't have thought of that, I expected her story to end badly.
Also, we get a baby. I suspect who he is because of some spoilers I got, and I cannot wait for him to be all grown up! Especially because he's, if spoilers are correct, my favourite character from the Cirque du Freak series.
In matters of style, the Saga of Larten Crepsley is written in a more "serious" and grown-up way, and it's clearly aimed at older readers. Even the language is at a higher level, and I think at least a B1 is required.
As a matter of fact, I'm overall liking this series a bit more than the Cirque du Freak books, and I can't wait to know what DesTiny (eheh) has in store for our young Vampire!
In this second book, we see Larten and Wester staying with the Cubs, living life to the fullest before having to be part of the Clan and leave every human trait behind. We see Larten struggling with his life, a young Vampire who is not yet the Mr. Crepsley we met in the Cirque du Freak series.
And we see him trying to keep at bay his mixed blood, his evil and terrible side.
The reading slump got me right when I was reading this book, and it was hell because I REALLY love what I read so far by Darren Shan. I finally forced myself to continue, and I did not regret it.
I admit that the first few chapters were a bit slow, and nothing much happened action-wise. But it does get better from Part Two on.
In this book, we meet characters that are present in the Cirque du Freak series as their younger selves, and yet we see what they'll become and how.
I think the keyword of this book is "struggle", in particular Larten's. He's still young, still not sure of what he really wants, wandering like a lost puppy with a terrible temper. Really, he seems like such a different character than Darren's teacher. And yet, I found it quite interesting. The growth I saw and I expect in the next two books is immense, and I do not think I will be disappointed. It'll probably be sad, though. I'll get the tissues ready.
In this second installment, Larten meets characters we know from the Saga of Darren Shan, some for the first time. I'm speaking mostly about Evanna and Arra, and, well, Vancha.
I keep disliking Evanna, honestly. She's just... I don't know how to describe her. I can see there is some good in her, but, in this book, Evanna is even more strict and annoying than when I read of her in the Cirque du Freak!
What REALLY surprised me in this book was Arra! We never knew her backstory in the original series, and when she appeared for the first time I couldn't believe it. She's a long way from becoming the Vampiress I love and revere, and I really did not expect to meet her in those circumstances. I don't really know what to expect... Maybe a story similar to Larten's, maybe something different. But not what I was given. Not that it is bad, just unexpected.
And Vancha! Well... Apart from being a General and not a Prince, he's just his disgusting, handsome self. I love him so much and I am sorry for what the future has in store for him.
I do wish we knew more about Malora, even though her feelings for Larten were a bit.... meh. She was so young, how could she know that love truly is? How could she sacrifice her life to stay with and protect a man that clearly didn't see her in such a light? I'm sorry for how her story ended, it was gruesome and unfair, but her name in Italian is a bit telling, and even if I knew Darren Shan couldn't have thought of that, I expected her story to end badly.
Also, we get a baby. I suspect who he is because of some spoilers I got, and I cannot wait for him to be all grown up! Especially because he's, if spoilers are correct, my favourite character from the Cirque du Freak series.
In matters of style, the Saga of Larten Crepsley is written in a more "serious" and grown-up way, and it's clearly aimed at older readers. Even the language is at a higher level, and I think at least a B1 is required.
As a matter of fact, I'm overall liking this series a bit more than the Cirque du Freak books, and I can't wait to know what DesTiny (eheh) has in store for our young Vampire!
May 29, 2018
" امیدوارم اقبال شبحی یارت باشد "
تو این کتاب استیصال روحی لارتن خیلی خوب به تصویر کشیده شده . اون درماندگی و بی هدفی لارتن بعضی اوقات منو یاد خودم مینداخت .
کتاب اون هیجان همیشگی رو نداشت گرچه قسمت دیدار لارتن با ایوانا و یا مرگ مالورا واقعا خوب بود . بهتر بخوام بگم توی چند فصل آخر تازه داستان اوج گرفته بود .
برام جالبه که دارن شان همیشه دوست داره تو داستان های خودش باشه . قبلا با اسم خودش و این بار در قامت برام استوکر توی داستان ظاهر شده بود .
با اینکه نویسنده سعی داشت نشون بده که لارتن اون آخر بعد به راه انداختن اقیانوس خون پشیمون شده بود اما من فکر می کنم تا حدودی حق داشت . مالورا حقش نبود که اونجوری کشته بشه .شاید زیادی بی رحم شدم !
تو این کتاب استیصال روحی لارتن خیلی خوب به تصویر کشیده شده . اون درماندگی و بی هدفی لارتن بعضی اوقات منو یاد خودم مینداخت .
کتاب اون هیجان همیشگی رو نداشت گرچه قسمت دیدار لارتن با ایوانا و یا مرگ مالورا واقعا خوب بود . بهتر بخوام بگم توی چند فصل آخر تازه داستان اوج گرفته بود .
برام جالبه که دارن شان همیشه دوست داره تو داستان های خودش باشه . قبلا با اسم خودش و این بار در قامت برام استوکر توی داستان ظاهر شده بود .
با اینکه نویسنده سعی داشت نشون بده که لارتن اون آخر بعد به راه انداختن اقیانوس خون پشیمون شده بود اما من فکر می کنم تا حدودی حق داشت . مالورا حقش نبود که اونجوری کشته بشه .شاید زیادی بی رحم شدم !
April 30, 2011
Unlike other books I’ve read by Shan, Ocean of Blood was pretty much an endless sea of summary with the occasional pool of blood thrown in. (Click here to read the rest of my review.)
July 27, 2023
Darren Shan’s “Ocean of Blood” exceeded my expectations in every way. As a fan of the first installment, I couldn’t wait to dive into the sequel, and I was not disappointed. From the very beginning, the book grips you with its intense and thrilling storyline.
The relentless bloodshed that unfolded throughout the pages kept me on the edge of my seat, yearning for more. The vivid descriptions of each battle and confrontation were so well-written that I could practically feel the tension and adrenaline coursing through my veins.
Even though “Ocean of Blood” followed the same structure as its predecessor with the part one, part two and so on, I found it even easier to follow this time around. The author’s ability to seamlessly tie in new elements and plot twists while maintaining a sense of familiarity is truly commendable.
From start to finish, this book captured my imagination and left me hungry for more. The characters continued to evolve, their motivations becoming even more compelling, and their choices grappling with the complex nature of good vs. evil.
The relentless bloodshed that unfolded throughout the pages kept me on the edge of my seat, yearning for more. The vivid descriptions of each battle and confrontation were so well-written that I could practically feel the tension and adrenaline coursing through my veins.
Even though “Ocean of Blood” followed the same structure as its predecessor with the part one, part two and so on, I found it even easier to follow this time around. The author’s ability to seamlessly tie in new elements and plot twists while maintaining a sense of familiarity is truly commendable.
From start to finish, this book captured my imagination and left me hungry for more. The characters continued to evolve, their motivations becoming even more compelling, and their choices grappling with the complex nature of good vs. evil.
December 4, 2024
Malora being underage and being like "you can wait for me" and Larten shortly being like "oh if she was older"... that made me take the star away.
Still love Larten and it was only a short moment and well Malora is young or well was so I can forgive her.
Seeing Spits again and seeing his past... I get to really hate him. Yeah, at least he is very much consistently a horrible person.
Well, a vampire with depression that then gets sick and goes on a killing spree after a friend is killed... I guess this one had it all! It's quite unbelievable that no one ever found out about this but even Spits was confused I guess? After all he was the one who said he told everyone on the ship about Larten but was thought of as crazy?
Anyways, am absolutely looking forward to finding out whatever is up with the baby and if the ship incident will reappear in this series.
*edit: after using my brain to think: Spits telling some whole other tale in the Darren Shan Saga was probably part of, well, Spits. He has gone crazy and was... weird. It fits so nevermind me questioning it.
Still love Larten and it was only a short moment and well Malora is young or well was so I can forgive her.
Seeing Spits again and seeing his past... I get to really hate him. Yeah, at least he is very much consistently a horrible person.
Well, a vampire with depression that then gets sick and goes on a killing spree after a friend is killed... I guess this one had it all! It's quite unbelievable that no one ever found out about this but even Spits was confused I guess? After all he was the one who said he told everyone on the ship about Larten but was thought of as crazy?
Anyways, am absolutely looking forward to finding out whatever is up with the baby and if the ship incident will reappear in this series.
*edit: after using my brain to think: Spits telling some whole other tale in the Darren Shan Saga was probably part of, well, Spits. He has gone crazy and was... weird. It fits so nevermind me questioning it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2023
Book 2!
I will admit this book wasn't quite as action-packed as the first, but it did still give insight into Larten's past.
I do wish we heard more about his Trials of Initiation, after enjoying the trials in the original series. But it was fun to see his interactions with Evanna, his introduction to Arra Sails and his short but somewhat sweet friendship with the newly introduced character Malora
I will admit this book wasn't quite as action-packed as the first, but it did still give insight into Larten's past.
I do wish we heard more about his Trials of Initiation, after enjoying the trials in the original series. But it was fun to see his interactions with Evanna, his introduction to Arra Sails and his short but somewhat sweet friendship with the newly introduced character Malora
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2022
The book had ups and downs for most of the book I thought there wasn’t enough drama and suspense and quite boring but the ending made up for it by also leaving us with lots of different cliffhangers. It also fills you in on how he got his scar and introduces new characters and a new side to Larten that we have never seen before.
October 19, 2022
This got better mid way. Slow start and couldn't get into it. The scene in the mountain unclogging dead vampires was eerie.
It got really dark really fast though. Feel it was a bridge tale for the next installment.
Interested to see the baby fit into this tale. I was shocked they went for Malora... Proper o my days moment.
It got really dark really fast though. Feel it was a bridge tale for the next installment.
Interested to see the baby fit into this tale. I was shocked they went for Malora... Proper o my days moment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2024
I thought this book was super boring and I'm getting fed up of the massive time jumps. Hoping the next one is better, but yo be fair yo the book I had alot on my mind while reading it
April 1, 2013
I've been an almost life-long fan of Darren Shan's books. The first time I read The Vampire's Assistant I was around eight. After that first encounter with the wonderful world of vampires that would live for centuries but were more like warriors than the aristocrats most books make them out to be, I was smitten with his writing.
But it seems like Ocean of Blood was a bit of a miss for me. Usually when I write a review the second paragraph is filled with the basic plot premises. This time, I'm having trouble thinking anything up besides: Larten is sad. Because that's pretty much what this book is about, Larten being sad and mopy and restless. He runs around doing stuff, but almost everything is told, not shown.
That's where it all went wrong with this story. There is no connection made with Larten. Firstly because in opposition to the Cirque Du Freak books, The Saga of Larten Crepsley is written in third person. I miss the intimacy of actually feeling like him, being in his head. There is an omniscient narrator here, that just floats in and out of people's heads, but never sticks around long enough to actually make us connect with the characters. Secondly there is no action. There are no happenings that grip you or keep you engaged. Most of the exciting stuff is told as an afterthought, like Larten's trials he must conquer to being a real vampire. The vampire party goes by in a blur. About seventy percent of the book is told, not shown.
That leaves the last quarter of the book being a place where actually something happens - and this is the part that got Ocean of Blood a three-star rating instead of a lower one. When the action finally kicks in, it really kicks in. All of a sudden the horror master I came to love is back in full force. The ending of Ocean of Blood makes me very curious to the third book in The Saga of Larten Crepsley, because that one does seem like a lovely action-packed book.
I would only recommend this to people who have read all of the Cirque Du Freak books. Especially this instalment will make near to no sense to you if you're not already familiar with the world. Unless you're a hardcore Larten fan, I'd just skip this part (or just read the ending) and continue with the third one, as nothing of note happens in Ocean of Blood.
But it seems like Ocean of Blood was a bit of a miss for me. Usually when I write a review the second paragraph is filled with the basic plot premises. This time, I'm having trouble thinking anything up besides: Larten is sad. Because that's pretty much what this book is about, Larten being sad and mopy and restless. He runs around doing stuff, but almost everything is told, not shown.
That's where it all went wrong with this story. There is no connection made with Larten. Firstly because in opposition to the Cirque Du Freak books, The Saga of Larten Crepsley is written in third person. I miss the intimacy of actually feeling like him, being in his head. There is an omniscient narrator here, that just floats in and out of people's heads, but never sticks around long enough to actually make us connect with the characters. Secondly there is no action. There are no happenings that grip you or keep you engaged. Most of the exciting stuff is told as an afterthought, like Larten's trials he must conquer to being a real vampire. The vampire party goes by in a blur. About seventy percent of the book is told, not shown.
That leaves the last quarter of the book being a place where actually something happens - and this is the part that got Ocean of Blood a three-star rating instead of a lower one. When the action finally kicks in, it really kicks in. All of a sudden the horror master I came to love is back in full force. The ending of Ocean of Blood makes me very curious to the third book in The Saga of Larten Crepsley, because that one does seem like a lovely action-packed book.
I would only recommend this to people who have read all of the Cirque Du Freak books. Especially this instalment will make near to no sense to you if you're not already familiar with the world. Unless you're a hardcore Larten fan, I'd just skip this part (or just read the ending) and continue with the third one, as nothing of note happens in Ocean of Blood.
January 17, 2014
Larten and Wester decide to go out on their own to sample the hard drinking playboy lifestyles of Cubs until they are ready to settle back down to the Vampire life. When it is time to test themselves at Vampire Mountain and find their calling, Larten has a crisis of confidence and decides to strike out on his own.
Book 2 starts with the look at the Cub lifestyle of drinking, gambling and whoring, which I really had no interest in reading about. Had the whole book been about this kind of vampire lifestyle, I would have abandoned the book. Thankfully, it didn't last too long and our heroes head back to Seba and their Vampire Mountain experience. I always like the bits at Vampire Mountain and this time we see the confident Larten taking a battering and starting to feel like a failure as a vampire. He is so far removed from the vampire we see in the SODS series, which I found interesting.
We meet a few more old friends in this book. Evanna(don't call me a witch!), Arrow with his human wife and Arra as a grumpy servant of Evanna. This is what I like best in this series, seeing the earlier exploits of some of the characters we know all about from the other books. I also liked the blending of the war into the vampires lives. I did find it a bit amusing to imagine men trying to kill each other while watching a group of weird pale guys hiding under umbrellas on the edge of the battlefield! That just appealed to my strange sense of humour! I also liked the 'Interview with a vampire' scene at the Inn between Larten and Bram Stoker, which was good. The humour in this book is just as good as the previous one.
There is also a lot of good action scenes especially when Larten is out of his mind with vampire flu on the boat. I really liked seeing the crazed vampire followed by the guilt ridden suicidal vampire that he was after the boat journey turns tragic. I like the twists and turns of Larten's character as he continually develops through this series. There is certainly a lot to like about this series though I do agree that it does jump forward in big leaps leaving a few gaps that you would have liked to have been a bit more fleshed out. Still, if the author gave you all of Larten's story, the saga would be about 20 books long!
So a decent read for fans of Larten and it will be interesting to see what happens next.
Book 2 starts with the look at the Cub lifestyle of drinking, gambling and whoring, which I really had no interest in reading about. Had the whole book been about this kind of vampire lifestyle, I would have abandoned the book. Thankfully, it didn't last too long and our heroes head back to Seba and their Vampire Mountain experience. I always like the bits at Vampire Mountain and this time we see the confident Larten taking a battering and starting to feel like a failure as a vampire. He is so far removed from the vampire we see in the SODS series, which I found interesting.
We meet a few more old friends in this book. Evanna(don't call me a witch!), Arrow with his human wife and Arra as a grumpy servant of Evanna. This is what I like best in this series, seeing the earlier exploits of some of the characters we know all about from the other books. I also liked the blending of the war into the vampires lives. I did find it a bit amusing to imagine men trying to kill each other while watching a group of weird pale guys hiding under umbrellas on the edge of the battlefield! That just appealed to my strange sense of humour! I also liked the 'Interview with a vampire' scene at the Inn between Larten and Bram Stoker, which was good. The humour in this book is just as good as the previous one.
There is also a lot of good action scenes especially when Larten is out of his mind with vampire flu on the boat. I really liked seeing the crazed vampire followed by the guilt ridden suicidal vampire that he was after the boat journey turns tragic. I like the twists and turns of Larten's character as he continually develops through this series. There is certainly a lot to like about this series though I do agree that it does jump forward in big leaps leaving a few gaps that you would have liked to have been a bit more fleshed out. Still, if the author gave you all of Larten's story, the saga would be about 20 books long!
So a decent read for fans of Larten and it will be interesting to see what happens next.
August 28, 2016
The novel Ocean of Blood written by Darren Shan, was one of the most gruesome yet beautiful written novel with every scene detailed to the brim. Even though I read this one before the first novel of the series I still got a kick out of reading about Larten Crepsley's story. The novel had all of the traits that make it a good book in my eyes; gore, joy, horror, sadness, humor, and irony. I also liked how each part of the book had a quote like; "something somewhere, and or someone" (that is not a quote from the novel, I'm just writing that so I don't spoil anything important). Thus I believe this is one of the best novels I read this whole summer, and I read about 5 books this summer, the plot was well written, the characters felt that they could be real people to me, and the fight scenes where pretty great.
December 21, 2011
Ocean of Blood my Darren Shan was in my personal opinion the best that he has wrote in a long time. I read all the Cirque Du Freak books and fell in love with the aaction and the way he showed vampires. The concept of vampires being fanged and live forever doesnt make any sense and neither does the feeding method of older vampire tales. For the most part it was easy to get into especially if you read the first of this continuation of the best author of all time...Darren Shan
February 18, 2022
This was a fun book, but not my favorite. Honestly, this series jumps around a little too much for my tastes so far. I love the characters and I'm glad to see my favorites from the original series, but there are some things that Larten does that make me wonder just why I liked his character overall.
August 31, 2013
Je skvělé potkat staré známé z původní ságy v o trochu mladším provedení a zasmát se. Druhý díl byl stejně dobrý jako jednička. Zvláště konec - Shan opět nezklamal. Navíc je tu hodně Vandžy a jeho hlášek, takže neváhejte...
August 27, 2024
Great sequal! Only draw back was that I kept wondering when the ocean part was gonna happen, simply wait for the last few chapters it goes out with a bang! The personal struggle is really well explained and relatable, everyone has come to a certain point in their life asing 'And now what??'.
March 22, 2014
It was not what I expected.
November 16, 2019
***ENGLISH REVIEW BELOW***
Dus ik heb het tweede boek uit. Het was leuk om te lezen, snel en makkelijk. Maar als ik het moet vergelijken met de Darren Shan saga, zou ik moeten zeggen dat ik de Darren Shan saga leuker vind tot nu toe. De schrijfstijl van alwetende verteller werkt wel goed voor deze serie, en ik heb geen probleem met de tijdsprongen die gemaakt worden. Het was interessant om de verschillende kanten van Larten Crepsley te zien. De titel van het boek is toepasselijk, vond ik, er is veel bloedvergieten in dit boek, en er waren ook best wel wat smerige delen naar mijn mening. Wat betreft het einde . Oh, en ik vond de toevoeging van . Op naar het derde boek!
***ENGLISH REVIEW***
So I've finished the second book. It was a fun read, quick and easy. Though if I have to compare it to the Darren Shan saga, I'd say that I like the Darren Shan saga more so far. The third person point of view works well for this series, though, and I don't mind the time jumps. It was interesting to see the different sides of Larten Crepsley. The title of the book is fitting, I think, there is a lot of bloodshed in this book, and there were quite some gory parts in my opinion. As for the end . Oh, and I liked the addition of . Onto the third book!
Dus ik heb het tweede boek uit. Het was leuk om te lezen, snel en makkelijk. Maar als ik het moet vergelijken met de Darren Shan saga, zou ik moeten zeggen dat ik de Darren Shan saga leuker vind tot nu toe. De schrijfstijl van alwetende verteller werkt wel goed voor deze serie, en ik heb geen probleem met de tijdsprongen die gemaakt worden. Het was interessant om de verschillende kanten van Larten Crepsley te zien. De titel van het boek is toepasselijk, vond ik, er is veel bloedvergieten in dit boek, en er waren ook best wel wat smerige delen naar mijn mening. Wat betreft het einde . Oh, en ik vond de toevoeging van . Op naar het derde boek!
***ENGLISH REVIEW***
So I've finished the second book. It was a fun read, quick and easy. Though if I have to compare it to the Darren Shan saga, I'd say that I like the Darren Shan saga more so far. The third person point of view works well for this series, though, and I don't mind the time jumps. It was interesting to see the different sides of Larten Crepsley. The title of the book is fitting, I think, there is a lot of bloodshed in this book, and there were quite some gory parts in my opinion. As for the end . Oh, and I liked the addition of . Onto the third book!
June 9, 2025
Ocean of Blood, the sixth book in The Saga of Darren Shan, plunges readers into a turbulent and visceral chapter marked by fierce battles, deepening loyalties, and profound sacrifice. Darren Shan masterfully blends high-stakes action with intricate character development, delivering a gripping narrative that explores the brutal realities of war and the heavy cost of survival.
Set amid the epic conflict between the vampires and vampaneze, Ocean of Blood thrusts Darren into the heart of a desperate struggle where every choice carries devastating consequences. Shan’s vivid descriptions of battle scenes are intense and cinematic, capturing the chaos and carnage with unflinching honesty. The novel’s atmosphere is thick with tension, as alliances are tested and the lines between friend and enemy blur in the fog of war.
At the core of the novel lies a poignant exploration of loyalty and identity. Darren grapples with the increasing demands of his role as Vampire Prince, navigating complex relationships with allies such as Harkat Mulds and Vancha March, while confronting the ever-present threat posed by the vampaneze. Shan’s nuanced portrayal of these characters adds emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting their fears, hopes, and unyielding resolve.
The pacing is relentless, propelling readers through a series of gripping confrontations and unexpected twists that keep tension at a fever pitch. Shan skillfully balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, allowing the emotional stakes to resonate powerfully alongside the physical battles.
In conclusion, Ocean of Blood is a five-star tour de force in Darren Shan’s saga—a thrilling, emotionally charged exploration of war, loyalty, and sacrifice. It is a crucial instalment that expands the series’ mythology while delivering heart-pounding suspense and profound character growth. Fans of dark fantasy and epic battles will find themselves captivated by this vivid and unforgettable chapter.
Set amid the epic conflict between the vampires and vampaneze, Ocean of Blood thrusts Darren into the heart of a desperate struggle where every choice carries devastating consequences. Shan’s vivid descriptions of battle scenes are intense and cinematic, capturing the chaos and carnage with unflinching honesty. The novel’s atmosphere is thick with tension, as alliances are tested and the lines between friend and enemy blur in the fog of war.
At the core of the novel lies a poignant exploration of loyalty and identity. Darren grapples with the increasing demands of his role as Vampire Prince, navigating complex relationships with allies such as Harkat Mulds and Vancha March, while confronting the ever-present threat posed by the vampaneze. Shan’s nuanced portrayal of these characters adds emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting their fears, hopes, and unyielding resolve.
The pacing is relentless, propelling readers through a series of gripping confrontations and unexpected twists that keep tension at a fever pitch. Shan skillfully balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, allowing the emotional stakes to resonate powerfully alongside the physical battles.
In conclusion, Ocean of Blood is a five-star tour de force in Darren Shan’s saga—a thrilling, emotionally charged exploration of war, loyalty, and sacrifice. It is a crucial instalment that expands the series’ mythology while delivering heart-pounding suspense and profound character growth. Fans of dark fantasy and epic battles will find themselves captivated by this vivid and unforgettable chapter.
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