Cirque Du Freak: The Manga: Omnibus Edition, Vol. 3

Cirque Du Freak: The Manga #5-6

by Darren Shan, Takahiro Arai (Artist)

Half-vampire Darren Shan has agreed to undergo the Trials of Initiation in order to restore Mr. Crepsley’s honor…but the consequences of failure are higher than he first thought! With his life at stake, Darren’s counting on help from his reliable friends and a little bit of luck as he faces his toughest challenge yet. The manga adaptation of internationally acclaimed author Darren Shan’s Cirque Du Freak continues in this oversize, deluxe omnibus edition!

Genres: Manga

388 pages, Paperback

Published July 27, 2021

About the author

Librarian'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..

Reviews

[Blake the Book Eater · Rating 3 out of 5]

The series has turned into lots of vampire politics now, and to be honest it is not that interesting. The conflicts are kinda meh and the surprising character moments and beats feel a bit tired.

[Brittany Fletcher]

Volume 5 of the Cirque du Freak manga, adapting Trials of Death, is a riveting and intense instalment that plunges readers deeper into Darren Shan’s dark and perilous world. Illustrated with striking detail by Takahiro Arai, this volume masterfully translates the harrowing challenges Darren faces during his gruelling trials into a visually captivating and emotionally charged narrative.

Arai’s artwork excels in capturing the physical and psychological torment Darren endures as he battles through the deadly tests required to prove his worthiness as a vampire. The art’s dynamic composition and shadowy tones amplify the tension, while the expressive character designs convey fear, determination, and resilience with remarkable clarity. The vivid depiction of the trials’ brutal environments immerses readers fully in the suspense and danger that define this stage of Darren’s transformation.

The manga maintains the original novel’s core themes of perseverance, sacrifice, and identity, while the visual storytelling adds immediacy and intensity to Darren’s internal and external struggles. The pacing is expertly balanced, with high-octane action sequences interspersed with quieter moments that deepen the emotional resonance and character development.

In conclusion, Volume 5 of the Cirque du Freak manga—Trials of Death—is a five-star adaptation that captures the heart-pounding drama and emotional complexity of Darren Shan’s saga. This volume is an essential and thrilling read for fans of supernatural adventure and dark fantasy, delivering a perfect blend of suspense, action, and poignant character growth.

[Krysta ꕤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

way more happened in this volume then I expected & I was glued to the pages the whole time. I love Darren & his friends so much. I can’t believe they killed off the characters that they did, especially so soon.. but I think it added stakes & shows how the decisions made have actual consequences.

[Rebecca Downey · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favourite two books of the series are brought to life in this omnibus edition! The Trials of Death and The Vampire Prince. It did not disappoint!