Joss is summoned by Abraham to New York City and told he must prove his loyalty to the Slayer Society by successfully leading a team in hunting a murderous Manhattan vampire, or his life will be forfeit.
Another year at Bathory High goes bad for Vlad Tod when his former friend Joss, now a vampire slayer, returns to town, a mysterious and powerful new vampire, Dorian, arrives with a thirst for Vlad's blood, and archenemy D'Ablo brings Vlad's Uncle Otis totrial.
High school freshman Vlad Todd, having a hard time with bullies and his grades, takes the opportunity to study abroad in Siberia, where he meets other vampires and learns how to use his mind-control abilities.
Tenth grade does not bring any relief to Vlad who is finding it increasingly difficult to resist feeding on his classmates and to avoid the evil vampire D'Ablo who wants to drain his powers.
The Council of Elders, having been informed that Tomas still lives, puts off Vlad's execution, providing Vlad the opportunity to try to set some things right.