When I finished the novel The Van Helsing Paradox (The Clara Grey Adventures Book 1) by Evelyn Chartres, I had two simultaneous thoughts. One was “what a ride” and the other was “what was that ride?” Two reactions: one emotional, one logical. I listen with my heart over my head when I finish novels and ultimately found satisfaction with the conclusion to this compelling horror novel.
A summary of The Van Helsing Paradox (The Clara Grey Adventures Book 1) could be Clara Grey is brought up in a secret order to fight supernatural beings who prey on humans, but this synopsis only scratches the surface. Set in the early years of the 1900s, this exciting romp from the 1900s to the 1920s is episodic in nature, however, you must read the chapters in order for the narrative to make sense.
Comparing this novel to equivalent books or movies, the nineteen twenties brings to mind the works of H.P. Lovecraft and the games based on his novels like Arkham Horror. With the exception of one chapter, this novel is different from those works. Van Helsing Paradox might make you recall the mediocre Van Helsing movie with Hugh Jackman. Actually, the book mirrors that setup but improves on it a great deal. The novel is energetic, eerie, sexy, violent, and highly imaginative. Not perfect, but The Van Helsing Paradox really delivers as an adult horror novel with a fascinating leading character.
The turns that happen during the course of the plot are a huge amount of fun. The novel delivers a twist at its conclusion that would make a pretzel look straight. The turn of events is both discordant with the narrative preceding it yet satisfying in its own way. As I finished the book, I equated the fun I had reading Paradox to the ride Space Mountain in the Disney parks. It’s dark, it’s fast, and it turns sharply when you least expect it.
The writing is solid and supports the entire structure of the plot. Clara is a holy sinner, and a glimpse into her theology is spelled out when she says “It was pride that changed angels into demons; it was humility that makes men soar with the angels.” Clara is a tart and should give the reader more than a few chuckles. The comment on the old adage “getting there is half the fun” is a laugh-out-loud moment. And after Clara defeats a wealthy denizen of the dark with a new fancy car, she reveals what she did to prepare for the encounter. The revelation is both bawdy and hilarious.
If you’re looking for a traditional tight narrative, a single plot line with a main protagonist and antagonist, a narrative where the events all fit neatly into place in the end, this is a challenging read. But if you want to be swept away to the 1910s and 1920s, with its World War I action, flappers and speakeasies; and you enjoy a few supernatural creatures menacing dark alleys, you’re in for a treat.
Link to purchase on Amazon: Van Helsing Paradox