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The Clara Grey Adventures #1
The Van Helsing Paradox
“A gal has to look out for herself after all.”
Clara Grey’s parents once said that the world was a dark and dangerous place. There was more truth than fiction to those words. There were things that lurked in the shadows which defied the laws of nature: perversions that fed on the dead, terrorised the living, or escaped the chill touch of the grave.
Clara is a member of the Tower, a religious order of hunters who work outside the confines of the Church. As keepers of the arcane, her order takes an active role to counter these threats. The life of a hunter can be short, and many go missing before completing their training. So, what does it take to succeed against all odds?
Explore Clara’s origin, a child born before the dawn of the twentieth century. Witness her rigorous training, how she faces adversity, and fights in the Great War to become the derringer wielding flapper she is.
Throughout her tale, keep in mind that no matter the threat, a gal has to look out for herself after all.
Clara Grey’s parents once said that the world was a dark and dangerous place. There was more truth than fiction to those words. There were things that lurked in the shadows which defied the laws of nature: perversions that fed on the dead, terrorised the living, or escaped the chill touch of the grave.
Clara is a member of the Tower, a religious order of hunters who work outside the confines of the Church. As keepers of the arcane, her order takes an active role to counter these threats. The life of a hunter can be short, and many go missing before completing their training. So, what does it take to succeed against all odds?
Explore Clara’s origin, a child born before the dawn of the twentieth century. Witness her rigorous training, how she faces adversity, and fights in the Great War to become the derringer wielding flapper she is.
Throughout her tale, keep in mind that no matter the threat, a gal has to look out for herself after all.
245 pages, ebook
First published September 1, 2018
71 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn Chartres
14 books251 followersEvelyn Chartres is the nom de plume for a self-published, Canadian author. The writer of nine Gothic fantasy novels, Evelyn released her debut novel, The Portrait, in 2016, and her latest, Man of War, in 2024.
A fan of the phrase ‘live to eat’, Evelyn shares her recipes on evelynchartres.com. These recipes have a loose focus on French-Canadian cuisine, featuring deep-dish meat pies, seafood, and desserts that are rarely seen outside of La Belle Province.
Evelyn is currently living in Ottawa, Ontario, and is busy laying the foundations of another book in the Adventures of Clara Grey series.
A fan of the phrase ‘live to eat’, Evelyn shares her recipes on evelynchartres.com. These recipes have a loose focus on French-Canadian cuisine, featuring deep-dish meat pies, seafood, and desserts that are rarely seen outside of La Belle Province.
Evelyn is currently living in Ottawa, Ontario, and is busy laying the foundations of another book in the Adventures of Clara Grey series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
September 9, 2019
This book was a delight! Part historical fantasy, part detective story and supernatural thriller, we follow Clara from her humble origins (I seriously loved all the details of early 1900’s life) freezing her toes off and tiptoeing out to the outhouse in the morning to joining a religious order of hunters who take out evil paranormals. This work spans decades as we follow Clara across various hunting quests, many of which feel like Indiana Jones type adventures Wonderfully detailed world-building, a wide cast of monsters and vampires and other supernatural creatures, and bonus points for oh-so creative use of holy water in a certain scene!
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
Please excuse typos/name misspellings. Entered on screen reader.
November 13, 2021
This is a 4.5 star read.
April 28, 2019
Interesting theory of static individuals..
The story is very intelligently written in the sense of vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar and while the overall plot is good, I would approach reading the book from a philosophical state of mind rather than that of a general story-telling. Clara is a static character who never truly changes throughout the course of her existence. I believe this was purposeful in order to properly deliver what seemed to be the driving message of the story, however the lack of emotion portrayed in the story left it feeling somewhat dry. The beginning and ending are both excellent, but I feel the story's impact would have been greater if the middle had been shortened. In any case, it's an interesting read with several intriguing scenes and thoughts as well as what is revealed to be "The Van Helsing Paradox" itself.
The story is very intelligently written in the sense of vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar and while the overall plot is good, I would approach reading the book from a philosophical state of mind rather than that of a general story-telling. Clara is a static character who never truly changes throughout the course of her existence. I believe this was purposeful in order to properly deliver what seemed to be the driving message of the story, however the lack of emotion portrayed in the story left it feeling somewhat dry. The beginning and ending are both excellent, but I feel the story's impact would have been greater if the middle had been shortened. In any case, it's an interesting read with several intriguing scenes and thoughts as well as what is revealed to be "The Van Helsing Paradox" itself.
January 19, 2019
This paranormal novel covers a lot of ground with an interesting and different take on hunters. Conceptually I liked it a lot. The plot was wide-ranging and complex. Clara, the main character, is remarkable. Instinctively she’s able to handle some things that most cannot. She is written a bit like Sherlock Holmes, with Clara often the smartest in the room. Even as a child she’s more perceptive than most around her. Instincts that certainly come in handy because the world is a dangerous place. There are a lot of strong female characters in this book, which is something I appreciate!
August 21, 2020
I really liked this!
We get to follow a hunter through her training and her hunting. It's a great ride. Evelyn Chartres tell a here is story that you can't put down. You lose yourself in the adventure!
We get to follow a hunter through her training and her hunting. It's a great ride. Evelyn Chartres tell a here is story that you can't put down. You lose yourself in the adventure!
June 6, 2021
THE VAN HELSING PARADOX is a cerebral and subtle look at the fine art of vampire hunting. In fact, the word vampire appears a mere eleven times in the entire book.
Clara Grey is orphaned at a very young age and whisked off to an orphanage run by nuns. She is curious, adventurous, and mischievous… these traits push her to an even more arduous training at the Tower where she learns the power of faith, prayer, and combat. The Tower put me somewhat in mind of the Shaolin temple training prominent in the old TV series "King Fu."
Along with monsters that go bump in the night, there is a soupçon of steampunk to be found in the devices of the mysterious Georgians. When I think of Georgians, I think of the era following the Victoria era. This makes THE VAN HELSING PARADOX a bit of genre bending novel.
I'm finding it hard to put into words exactly why I found THE VAN HELSING PARADOX as compelling as I did. Part of it was surely the very different coming of age story combined with very adult themes. Don't let Clara Grey's childhood adventures lull you into thinking this is just another young adult series with vampires. It is so much more.
I have been a collector of vampire fiction and lore for many years. The Dracula mythos is but one surrounding the blood sucking undead. As I read my way through both classic and modern tales, I am always on the lookout for new takes on this universal theme. Invoking Van Helsing in the title is what attracted me to THE VAN HELSING PARADOX; the new interpretation of the vampire hunter made me want to keep reading the next books in the series.
Clara Grey is orphaned at a very young age and whisked off to an orphanage run by nuns. She is curious, adventurous, and mischievous… these traits push her to an even more arduous training at the Tower where she learns the power of faith, prayer, and combat. The Tower put me somewhat in mind of the Shaolin temple training prominent in the old TV series "King Fu."
Along with monsters that go bump in the night, there is a soupçon of steampunk to be found in the devices of the mysterious Georgians. When I think of Georgians, I think of the era following the Victoria era. This makes THE VAN HELSING PARADOX a bit of genre bending novel.
I'm finding it hard to put into words exactly why I found THE VAN HELSING PARADOX as compelling as I did. Part of it was surely the very different coming of age story combined with very adult themes. Don't let Clara Grey's childhood adventures lull you into thinking this is just another young adult series with vampires. It is so much more.
I have been a collector of vampire fiction and lore for many years. The Dracula mythos is but one surrounding the blood sucking undead. As I read my way through both classic and modern tales, I am always on the lookout for new takes on this universal theme. Invoking Van Helsing in the title is what attracted me to THE VAN HELSING PARADOX; the new interpretation of the vampire hunter made me want to keep reading the next books in the series.
May 17, 2019
An interesting and entertaining read held back only (in my opinion) by structural issues. At times the book felt less like a flowing narrative and more a series of vignettes. Characters come and go, the passage of time is rarely addressed, and the main character- though really well written- more or less just goes through the motions of each vignette. There were also times where I felt like I was missing something that could have been there had there been strong cohesion between the chapters.
Not to be all negative- Clara is a great character, and the world she inhabits (or rather the secret monster fighting Chuch society that takes her in) is interestingly set up and developed, although it too could have used a little more fleshing out. Her interactions with other characters are fun, even if they mostly serve as a means to show us that she is smarter/better prepared/etc than everyone else (again not a slight, just an observation)
All in all, I give it 3 out of 5. Entertaining, glad I read it, recommend it to anyone who is interested even if I felt it could have used a little more.
Not to be all negative- Clara is a great character, and the world she inhabits (or rather the secret monster fighting Chuch society that takes her in) is interestingly set up and developed, although it too could have used a little more fleshing out. Her interactions with other characters are fun, even if they mostly serve as a means to show us that she is smarter/better prepared/etc than everyone else (again not a slight, just an observation)
All in all, I give it 3 out of 5. Entertaining, glad I read it, recommend it to anyone who is interested even if I felt it could have used a little more.
October 24, 2018
The book is the life story of Clara, a very strong female character, who grows up to hunting monsters (primarily ghouls and vampires) as part of a secret Catholic order that protects humanity from the monsters. The author is quite creative in both the headquarters of the order and the religious aspects of the book. The novel contains a small amount of explicit sex and a fair amount of violence (not gratuitous, but appropriate for the book's plot and world) , making it appropriate for young adult and adult readers. The book also has some nice twists and a strong ending I didn't expect. I would definitely be interested in reading a sequel, prequel, and any book by this author in this universe. This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be the last. Recommended.
April 9, 2020
I feel bad only being able to give this book 5 stars it deserves at least 15.
I want the TV series, I want the movie, I want the merchandise. The character and world created here are extraordinary in their simplicity and their complexity. I have found my new Buffy Summers a character I thought would never be matched in my heart, but this book has stirred the same emotions as the genius of Joss Whedon did with his wonderful series.
I am almost lost for words at the brilliance of the concept and delivery here. If you loved Buffy, Harry Potter, Supernatural or anything of that ilk I guarantee you will enjoy this.
Cannot wait to get stuck into book 2 in the series.
I want the TV series, I want the movie, I want the merchandise. The character and world created here are extraordinary in their simplicity and their complexity. I have found my new Buffy Summers a character I thought would never be matched in my heart, but this book has stirred the same emotions as the genius of Joss Whedon did with his wonderful series.
I am almost lost for words at the brilliance of the concept and delivery here. If you loved Buffy, Harry Potter, Supernatural or anything of that ilk I guarantee you will enjoy this.
Cannot wait to get stuck into book 2 in the series.
July 6, 2019
This was a very well-written book from a new to me author. Clara is an extremely interesting character and the book draws you in as you follow her on her journey. It's almost eerie how she can sense evil in the monsters she combats, and the reader roots for her. Such an interesting twist for a Catholic school girl to be trained to fight otherworldly monsters and demons. The historical settings were really interesting and I could tell that the author researched them intensely. If you like paranormal reads, this is a good one!
March 14, 2020
This book is like if the students at Hogwarts went to school under Van Helsing (deliberate reference to the title) and other monster hunters. This book definitely has a horror flavor to it, unlike Harry Potter. I really liked the main character, Clara. As a child, she witnesses ghouls kill her parents. Instead of traumatizing her, these events set her on course for a role that properly utilizes her abilities. Clara is very smart and mischievous as well as wholly likeable. A thoroughly enjoyable read.
August 25, 2020
A mix of religion, finding oneself, and learning of one's strength in fighting the evil that is determined to destroy what you hold dear. The Van Helsing Paradox shares the adventures of Clara Grey as she gains confidence in her ability to fulfill her destiny.
Filled with action and intrigue. This book is one that you will have a hard time putting down.
Filled with action and intrigue. This book is one that you will have a hard time putting down.
April 5, 2019
Chartres fuses ancient conspiracies within the Church with urban fantasy to create a fast-paced horror adventure that doesn’t lack for depth.
Clara Grey’s family live in decidedly ungenteel poverty in a small mining town; a poverty that slides toward destitution when her father dies. Everyone says his cough finally got him, but Clara is certain she saw fresh blood and ragged bite marks. When a creepy stranger turns up on the doorstep, she is convinced the monster has returned; however, her attempt to uncover it ends without evidence when her mother dies. Taken in by the Church, she believes it is charity; instead she is discovers a secret order dedicated to fighting monsters; an order she might do well in, if she can accept the cost.
Chartres provides a familiar yet fresh take on a secret order within the Church, providing the conflicts between the good of the individual and the good of humanity, and between faith and expedience, that readers familiar with 7th Sea’s Die Kreuzritter and other religious assassins will enjoy while maintaining a sense of joy that is often absent from such bleak dilemmas.
A major part of this comes from the significant portion of the book that follows Clara’s training, from prankish child, through slightly arrogant teen, to experience-hungry young adult. These trappings of humour and perceived immortality that pervade the revelation of occult danger set the stage for a lighter, more witty cynicism than the more common grim determination that underlies a hidden struggle against evil.
Indeed, the segment prior to her recruitment is arguably the least representative, set as it is in the world of a grieving pre-teen who must surrender the freedoms of childhood to help support her family. Readers who are unsure after the opening scenes might therefore find giving the benefit of the doubt pays off.
As befits a story centred on Catholic monster hunters, faith and the trappings of Christianity have power against vampires and some other creatures; however, Chartres makes this a curse as well as a blessing, as the discomfort the faithful produce in vampires also makes them noticeable to vampires, making it harder to stalk them covertly.
However, this is not a simple Christianity vs the damned narrative; some of the equipment used draws not on religion but on the borderline of magic and science, raising the question whether it is religion itself or the belief that religion works that is effective.
Clara is an engaging and sympathetic protagonist. Drawn into the order by circumstance rather than faith, she is torn between the visceral drive to survive and clasp any pleasures she can that her childhood instilled, and the moral drive to counter the evident threat that vampires and other creatures pose to humanity. This struggle becomes more powerful as her first forays outside the Order’s sanctuary reveal a decadent world vastly more enticing than cold stone and nuns habits
The supporting cast both support and expand these conflicts between self-interest and altruism, morality and expediency. A belief in the cause armours some against supernatural seduction , but for others taking joy in life proves a stronger protection against corruption than the knowledge the battle is righteous. Some monsters are hideous parodies of self-indulgence, others seem to offer a greater opportunity to do good than remaining faithful.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel greatly. I recommend it to readers seeking an engaging tale of vampire hunting or the complexities of saving humanity secretly.
Clara Grey’s family live in decidedly ungenteel poverty in a small mining town; a poverty that slides toward destitution when her father dies. Everyone says his cough finally got him, but Clara is certain she saw fresh blood and ragged bite marks. When a creepy stranger turns up on the doorstep, she is convinced the monster has returned; however, her attempt to uncover it ends without evidence when her mother dies. Taken in by the Church, she believes it is charity; instead she is discovers a secret order dedicated to fighting monsters; an order she might do well in, if she can accept the cost.
Chartres provides a familiar yet fresh take on a secret order within the Church, providing the conflicts between the good of the individual and the good of humanity, and between faith and expedience, that readers familiar with 7th Sea’s Die Kreuzritter and other religious assassins will enjoy while maintaining a sense of joy that is often absent from such bleak dilemmas.
A major part of this comes from the significant portion of the book that follows Clara’s training, from prankish child, through slightly arrogant teen, to experience-hungry young adult. These trappings of humour and perceived immortality that pervade the revelation of occult danger set the stage for a lighter, more witty cynicism than the more common grim determination that underlies a hidden struggle against evil.
Indeed, the segment prior to her recruitment is arguably the least representative, set as it is in the world of a grieving pre-teen who must surrender the freedoms of childhood to help support her family. Readers who are unsure after the opening scenes might therefore find giving the benefit of the doubt pays off.
As befits a story centred on Catholic monster hunters, faith and the trappings of Christianity have power against vampires and some other creatures; however, Chartres makes this a curse as well as a blessing, as the discomfort the faithful produce in vampires also makes them noticeable to vampires, making it harder to stalk them covertly.
However, this is not a simple Christianity vs the damned narrative; some of the equipment used draws not on religion but on the borderline of magic and science, raising the question whether it is religion itself or the belief that religion works that is effective.
Clara is an engaging and sympathetic protagonist. Drawn into the order by circumstance rather than faith, she is torn between the visceral drive to survive and clasp any pleasures she can that her childhood instilled, and the moral drive to counter the evident threat that vampires and other creatures pose to humanity. This struggle becomes more powerful as her first forays outside the Order’s sanctuary reveal a decadent world vastly more enticing than cold stone and nuns habits
The supporting cast both support and expand these conflicts between self-interest and altruism, morality and expediency. A belief in the cause armours some against supernatural seduction , but for others taking joy in life proves a stronger protection against corruption than the knowledge the battle is righteous. Some monsters are hideous parodies of self-indulgence, others seem to offer a greater opportunity to do good than remaining faithful.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel greatly. I recommend it to readers seeking an engaging tale of vampire hunting or the complexities of saving humanity secretly.
December 12, 2019
Despite the fact that I gave the book 3 stars (would really give 3.5 but alas it's not an option) I quite enjoyed it. The premise of the book is very interesting. I like the take the author has on vampires and other creatures of various mythologies. And it's such a different take on the hunters and how they're trained. It's dark fantasy with a bit of sci-fi/technology thrown in though that aspect is not fully developed. It also sticks to the roots of the church being involved in hunting however the protagonist isn't fully into the ideals of the church and relishes her freedom. I enjoyed reading the book and I wasn't bored at any point.
However despite the fact that the book has promise...it felt very disjointed to a degree and lacking a smooth transition from one chapter to the next sometimes. The book follows the life and story of Clara. And that's what it does almost to a fault. We are introduced to other characters who fade away at some point and then reappear and we have no idea what really happened with them in the interim (eg Edith). The ending as well was strange in the way the transition happened. Maybe it's just the way I read it but to me some scenes were really good and then others were too abrupt. Parts of it reads like...well this happened and then this and then this. And then even the end where it was supposed to give closure to the reader.....I didn't really get that feeling.
I think the plot of the book tried to take on too much. She introduced several things that were not ever fully developed. They were thrown in there and we get hints of it but they aren't fleshed out. I honestly think she either needed to turn this into a short series or make it a longer book. Clara is also quite a static character. We don't have any dynamic characters really. From beginning to end the protagonist didn't have any real development. Sure she grew more powerful...but she had the instincts to become powerful from the beginning. She was also a pretty cold character. Which is good for her line of work but sort of...doesn't really add up to what she is at the end. She was quite a strong character though to an extent.
However despite the fact that the book has promise...it felt very disjointed to a degree and lacking a smooth transition from one chapter to the next sometimes. The book follows the life and story of Clara. And that's what it does almost to a fault. We are introduced to other characters who fade away at some point and then reappear and we have no idea what really happened with them in the interim (eg Edith). The ending as well was strange in the way the transition happened. Maybe it's just the way I read it but to me some scenes were really good and then others were too abrupt. Parts of it reads like...well this happened and then this and then this. And then even the end where it was supposed to give closure to the reader.....I didn't really get that feeling.
I think the plot of the book tried to take on too much. She introduced several things that were not ever fully developed. They were thrown in there and we get hints of it but they aren't fleshed out. I honestly think she either needed to turn this into a short series or make it a longer book. Clara is also quite a static character. We don't have any dynamic characters really. From beginning to end the protagonist didn't have any real development. Sure she grew more powerful...but she had the instincts to become powerful from the beginning. She was also a pretty cold character. Which is good for her line of work but sort of...doesn't really add up to what she is at the end. She was quite a strong character though to an extent.
April 14, 2019
"Whoever said that getting there was half the fun, had never travelled with a nun hell-bent on getting there."
This line is only one of many which illustrate the fun writing style Evelyn Chartres uses in telling the story of The Van Helsing Paradox. This novel features what I crave the most out of a story: a main character whom I love to follow! Clara Grey, the protagonist of the tale is innovative, snarky, both respects and defies authority, and knows how to pay attention to the world around her and use that knowledge to her advantage.
The Van Helsing Paradox features more than just a scrappy fun main character: it delves in vampires, religion, and nefarious villains with unwholesome plans that need to be stopped. And it all centers on Clara from child to adulthood, an intelligent action heroine who at the same time is relatable as a reperson. I was immediately hooked by the end of the very first paragraph, when Clara as a child wakes with a need to go use the outhouse, and has to do her best in hand me down clothing too big for her. It's these kinds of details that help bring the story to life.
I would have liked to see some details expanded which were only quickly mentioned in the story. For example, Clara's mischief in school is barely touched upon, and I'd like to learn more about the mysterious people who created her base of operations called The Tower. But Ms. Chartres's storytelling weaves the ongoing tale in a way that makes these questions simply a case of "leaving the audience wanting more" in the best possible way.
Beyond the story itself, the book also showcases a wonderful immersion into the timeframe of the story. The narrative goes deep enough that Ms. Chartres has even provided a glossary in the back to help understand some of the dated terms. Barneymugging has become my new favorite word!
I enjoyed and highly recommend the Van Helsing Paradox, and I look forward to exploring more of the fantastic stories Evelyn Chartres has available.
This line is only one of many which illustrate the fun writing style Evelyn Chartres uses in telling the story of The Van Helsing Paradox. This novel features what I crave the most out of a story: a main character whom I love to follow! Clara Grey, the protagonist of the tale is innovative, snarky, both respects and defies authority, and knows how to pay attention to the world around her and use that knowledge to her advantage.
The Van Helsing Paradox features more than just a scrappy fun main character: it delves in vampires, religion, and nefarious villains with unwholesome plans that need to be stopped. And it all centers on Clara from child to adulthood, an intelligent action heroine who at the same time is relatable as a reperson. I was immediately hooked by the end of the very first paragraph, when Clara as a child wakes with a need to go use the outhouse, and has to do her best in hand me down clothing too big for her. It's these kinds of details that help bring the story to life.
I would have liked to see some details expanded which were only quickly mentioned in the story. For example, Clara's mischief in school is barely touched upon, and I'd like to learn more about the mysterious people who created her base of operations called The Tower. But Ms. Chartres's storytelling weaves the ongoing tale in a way that makes these questions simply a case of "leaving the audience wanting more" in the best possible way.
Beyond the story itself, the book also showcases a wonderful immersion into the timeframe of the story. The narrative goes deep enough that Ms. Chartres has even provided a glossary in the back to help understand some of the dated terms. Barneymugging has become my new favorite word!
I enjoyed and highly recommend the Van Helsing Paradox, and I look forward to exploring more of the fantastic stories Evelyn Chartres has available.
May 27, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this historical fantasy story. At times, I felt a little confused about what genre I was reading, as there were hints of horror to some of the scenes. In fact, when I started reading it, I thought it was going to be a horror. When Clara, the main character arrives at her new home, I felt the story switched to resemble a Harry Potter-style environment, with an emphasis on her education, then moves into mystery and detective mode as she grows.
Needless to say, this story is thoroughly entertaining. The characters are an interesting bunch, that I did hope they would be explored more. But, as the story moves through Clara's life, there isn't much time spent in any particular scene. When the next chapter started, I was left feeling like I'd missed some of the action or details. There were some loose ends that I do hope the author pulls together in the sequel - especially the all-too-brief encounter with Evelyn.
I love Clara - strong, independent and whip-smart! She is a great personality and provides the cohesion from one scene to the next. I was getting really excited for her next adventure (at the end of the book), then realised, that adventure will be in the NEXT book.
The Van Helsing Paradox was a solid read, entertaining and intriguing. I look forward to picking up the next book from this author.
Needless to say, this story is thoroughly entertaining. The characters are an interesting bunch, that I did hope they would be explored more. But, as the story moves through Clara's life, there isn't much time spent in any particular scene. When the next chapter started, I was left feeling like I'd missed some of the action or details. There were some loose ends that I do hope the author pulls together in the sequel - especially the all-too-brief encounter with Evelyn.
I love Clara - strong, independent and whip-smart! She is a great personality and provides the cohesion from one scene to the next. I was getting really excited for her next adventure (at the end of the book), then realised, that adventure will be in the NEXT book.
The Van Helsing Paradox was a solid read, entertaining and intriguing. I look forward to picking up the next book from this author.
August 15, 2019
What a fabulous historical fantasy story! This adventure begins with a young girl, Clara Grey, who has a unique encounter with something otherworldly. She's noticed for her special ability to see what others are trying to hide, as well as her added resistance to their different kinds of charm.
Her natural gift gathers the attention of someone who is a member of an elite Order - an Order which sets themselves up as hunters against the monsters who prey on humans. His influence allows him to shift her off the boring path her life would have otherwise taken. This Order sweeps her into a magical tower world full of higher education, monsters, combat training, and magic of a different name.
The story follows Clara into womanhood, and along the path toward getting her revenge against one of the first monsters who killed someone close to her. One of the best aspects of this character is that she's well-developed. Sometimes she's vulnerable and unsure of herself, and other times she's almost cruel, but all the while she's a real person with the complexity of a deep character who has a lot to accomplish.
If you're a fan of the Supernatural TV show and Harry Potter, you'll love this book. There are people trained to be monster Hunters, Vampires, Ghouls, Ghosts, religious figures, and lots of holy water!
Her natural gift gathers the attention of someone who is a member of an elite Order - an Order which sets themselves up as hunters against the monsters who prey on humans. His influence allows him to shift her off the boring path her life would have otherwise taken. This Order sweeps her into a magical tower world full of higher education, monsters, combat training, and magic of a different name.
The story follows Clara into womanhood, and along the path toward getting her revenge against one of the first monsters who killed someone close to her. One of the best aspects of this character is that she's well-developed. Sometimes she's vulnerable and unsure of herself, and other times she's almost cruel, but all the while she's a real person with the complexity of a deep character who has a lot to accomplish.
If you're a fan of the Supernatural TV show and Harry Potter, you'll love this book. There are people trained to be monster Hunters, Vampires, Ghouls, Ghosts, religious figures, and lots of holy water!
October 13, 2018
The Van Helsing Paradox is an intelligently written tale that appeals to a much broader audience than the typical “fantasy” or “horror” enthusiast. The story incorporates just enough 1920’s slang and historical references to give it a true period feel.
Evelyn Chartres, the mysterious and elusive French Canadian author, juxtaposes wit and humor with the horror of creature slaying. References to the Canadian classic, Anne of Green Gables as well as the blockbuster film Indiana Jones provide a window into Evelyn’s brand of humor. This whimsy only serves to further emphasize the terror-filled bloodbath in which the main character finds herself immersed.
Clara Grey, the female protagonist, is an intriguing blend of tough vampire slayer and sensitive young woman struggling to find her way in a world of hidden perils. The author weaves a complicated story of adversity and triumph that allows the reader to believe Clara’s evolution as a huntress in an exclusive order operated in secret by the Catholic Church.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From Clara’s modest beginnings as a child of a coal miner to her formation as a deadly huntress, the story kept my attention. If anything, I longed for more…
Evelyn Chartres, the mysterious and elusive French Canadian author, juxtaposes wit and humor with the horror of creature slaying. References to the Canadian classic, Anne of Green Gables as well as the blockbuster film Indiana Jones provide a window into Evelyn’s brand of humor. This whimsy only serves to further emphasize the terror-filled bloodbath in which the main character finds herself immersed.
Clara Grey, the female protagonist, is an intriguing blend of tough vampire slayer and sensitive young woman struggling to find her way in a world of hidden perils. The author weaves a complicated story of adversity and triumph that allows the reader to believe Clara’s evolution as a huntress in an exclusive order operated in secret by the Catholic Church.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. From Clara’s modest beginnings as a child of a coal miner to her formation as a deadly huntress, the story kept my attention. If anything, I longed for more…
September 2, 2019
THE VAN HELSING PARADOX by Evelyn Chartres follows the journey of Clara as she emerges from a life of obscurity into ranks occupied by legends. Set in the early 1900s, she is a hunter trained to kill un-godly perversions. Bright and observant as a child, Clara is formidable as an adult. Curiosity brings her face-to-face with the ultimate enemy, a threat seeking to destroy the organization she serves. Despite access to weapons, her sexuality proves to be her most valuable killer. Ultimately, her training culminates in a deadly stand-off, leading to an unexpected conclusion.
This was an entertaining read. I missed depth, however, among the main character’s relationships. Emotionally, it read cold. I do not advocate for a multitude of descriptions in books, but the lack of adequate details left me piecing together sub-par images. I even read the book a second time to ensure I had not missed important information. Written in third-person, the internal thoughts of Clara marked with quotation marks is redundant and off-putting. By the end, I was left with more questions than answers. Maybe the book’s sequel will offer the answers I seek.
Despite the slow start and unnecessary family dynamics, I thoroughly loved the book’s conclusion! Creatively, it rocked!
This was an entertaining read. I missed depth, however, among the main character’s relationships. Emotionally, it read cold. I do not advocate for a multitude of descriptions in books, but the lack of adequate details left me piecing together sub-par images. I even read the book a second time to ensure I had not missed important information. Written in third-person, the internal thoughts of Clara marked with quotation marks is redundant and off-putting. By the end, I was left with more questions than answers. Maybe the book’s sequel will offer the answers I seek.
Despite the slow start and unnecessary family dynamics, I thoroughly loved the book’s conclusion! Creatively, it rocked!
April 28, 2020
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 part of the 1900s, this exciting romp through an outrageous trio of decades (1900-1929) is episodic in nature, however, you must read the chapters in order for the narrative to make sense.
The novel is energetic, eerie, sexy, violent, and highly imaginative. Not perfect, but The Van Helsing Paradox really satisfies as an adult horror novel with a fascinating leading character. The novel delivers a twist at its conclusion that would make a pretzel look straight. The writing is solid and supports the entire structure of the plot.
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, speakeasies as well as a few supernatural creatures menacing dark alleys, you’re in for a treat.
The novel is energetic, eerie, sexy, violent, and highly imaginative. Not perfect, but The Van Helsing Paradox really satisfies as an adult horror novel with a fascinating leading character. The novel delivers a twist at its conclusion that would make a pretzel look straight. The writing is solid and supports the entire structure of the plot.
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, speakeasies as well as a few supernatural creatures menacing dark alleys, you’re in for a treat.
December 2, 2019
The rise and fall
A good start to a new series. Yes it did have its twists and turns and could get confusing at time. But the imagery was great, the characters colourful and basically boiled down to a fight of good against evil.
The story is based on a child (in the first instance) who can see things others cannot. Things such as ghouls and vampires. She even manages to fight the vampire that kills her mother leaving her and her two sisters orphans. We watch as she moves from church run schools learning the arts of fighting the Nosferatu. Taking down traitors, using the ancient technology left by the Georgians until she meets her final quarry. A quarry that has attacked the safe haven of the hunters and killed the priest she had grown to love as a child. The final quarry as she knows she has been led into a trap. Will she get the vampire? Even though Hecate has arrived with a bargain will she accept or will she die true to her aim? If she dies will that be the end?
A good start to a new series. Yes it did have its twists and turns and could get confusing at time. But the imagery was great, the characters colourful and basically boiled down to a fight of good against evil.
The story is based on a child (in the first instance) who can see things others cannot. Things such as ghouls and vampires. She even manages to fight the vampire that kills her mother leaving her and her two sisters orphans. We watch as she moves from church run schools learning the arts of fighting the Nosferatu. Taking down traitors, using the ancient technology left by the Georgians until she meets her final quarry. A quarry that has attacked the safe haven of the hunters and killed the priest she had grown to love as a child. The final quarry as she knows she has been led into a trap. Will she get the vampire? Even though Hecate has arrived with a bargain will she accept or will she die true to her aim? If she dies will that be the end?
March 22, 2020
I want to start by saying if I finish a book these days, it means there is something there. With the overflow of data and entertainment in the world, I don’t have time to read it all, so I won’t.
There were a couple things I really liked about this book. One was that there were some new ideas I hadn’t seen in a “hunting vampires/demons” novel, which is a job well done when you consider my reading/TV and movie watching background in the subject. I won’t drop too many details because, you know, spoilers, Darling! Needless to say, the universe was intriguing enough to keep my attention. I also felt the author had a good handle on the time periods the story covers.
I think my biggest complaint, and my main reason for the three stars was I never really felt like I was getting to know the lead character. I never knew how she felt or what she really wanted. “Just for the job” doesn’t always work for me.
I will still probably read more of Evelyn Chartres’s work in the future. I’m curious to see how she handles other characters.
There were a couple things I really liked about this book. One was that there were some new ideas I hadn’t seen in a “hunting vampires/demons” novel, which is a job well done when you consider my reading/TV and movie watching background in the subject. I won’t drop too many details because, you know, spoilers, Darling! Needless to say, the universe was intriguing enough to keep my attention. I also felt the author had a good handle on the time periods the story covers.
I think my biggest complaint, and my main reason for the three stars was I never really felt like I was getting to know the lead character. I never knew how she felt or what she really wanted. “Just for the job” doesn’t always work for me.
I will still probably read more of Evelyn Chartres’s work in the future. I’m curious to see how she handles other characters.
May 24, 2022
Very Interesting
This book is very different from anything I have read before. I was a little wary because of all the religious references in the blurb. I do not like inspirational reads. Thankfully, this is not inspirational. The book is about a very young girl who finds her father dead in the outhouse. Only she calmly takes in the details and finally becomes aware something is eating her father's corpse in the back of the outhouse, where she can hear it but not see it. That is her first experience with monsters. After a second experience, a knowledgeable priest sends her to a special place to be evaluated and taught. Throughout her training she shows a highly evolved ability to decipher clues and how to deal with unique situations. Her life is spent in fighting monsters for the church. The book contains numerous missions she is sent on. They are all fascinating to me. The end of the book was fabulous. Very unexpected. Book 2 will start a new and different adventure for Clara, the monster hunter. Cannot wait to read it.
This book is very different from anything I have read before. I was a little wary because of all the religious references in the blurb. I do not like inspirational reads. Thankfully, this is not inspirational. The book is about a very young girl who finds her father dead in the outhouse. Only she calmly takes in the details and finally becomes aware something is eating her father's corpse in the back of the outhouse, where she can hear it but not see it. That is her first experience with monsters. After a second experience, a knowledgeable priest sends her to a special place to be evaluated and taught. Throughout her training she shows a highly evolved ability to decipher clues and how to deal with unique situations. Her life is spent in fighting monsters for the church. The book contains numerous missions she is sent on. They are all fascinating to me. The end of the book was fabulous. Very unexpected. Book 2 will start a new and different adventure for Clara, the monster hunter. Cannot wait to read it.
June 4, 2019
Buy this book if you like the idea of a cool-headed young woman blowing large holes in vampires with a Derringer.
This quirky read keeps the sense of danger pumped up throughout. I found the language spicy, and I think I read this all the way to the end for that reason: the writing was simply a pleasure to experience. The mystery of Clara's world is considerable, and the episodic plot bounces along nicely.
I have a few quibbles. First, attempting to phrase this in a such a way as to avoid spoilers, Clara did not demonstrate the sort of compassion for her fellow human that would plausibly put her in the position she finds herself in at the end. Too, I like quirky, but this yarn pulled several rabbits too many from the hat for me. The factions were never fleshed out. The world is dark, dark, dark.
But Clara is quite the human wrecking ball, and it was a pleasure to participate in the splatter.
This quirky read keeps the sense of danger pumped up throughout. I found the language spicy, and I think I read this all the way to the end for that reason: the writing was simply a pleasure to experience. The mystery of Clara's world is considerable, and the episodic plot bounces along nicely.
I have a few quibbles. First, attempting to phrase this in a such a way as to avoid spoilers, Clara did not demonstrate the sort of compassion for her fellow human that would plausibly put her in the position she finds herself in at the end. Too, I like quirky, but this yarn pulled several rabbits too many from the hat for me. The factions were never fleshed out. The world is dark, dark, dark.
But Clara is quite the human wrecking ball, and it was a pleasure to participate in the splatter.
June 29, 2019
The pluses of this action-packed historical/horror novel far outnumber its minor flaws, and its breathless pacing makes it a great pool or beach read--in the sun.
The narrative encompasses the life of the arch and mischievous Clara Grey who cycles from orphan to Catholic schoolgirl, to a hunter of every species of un-dead creature feeding off human pain, flesh, or blood.
Trained by Catholic clergy, Clara is never without her special rosary, her Derringer, or her sex appeal, all of which she deploys as occasion demands while she forces safe passage through dangerously puzzling buildings, alternate timelines, and friendship and betrayal.
Following a stint on the front lines during World War I, she puts on the mantle and saucy speech of a Flapper and finally reflects--she reflects but rarely--on the source of her pressing need for vengeance against the unspeakable monsters she daily confronts.
The narrative encompasses the life of the arch and mischievous Clara Grey who cycles from orphan to Catholic schoolgirl, to a hunter of every species of un-dead creature feeding off human pain, flesh, or blood.
Trained by Catholic clergy, Clara is never without her special rosary, her Derringer, or her sex appeal, all of which she deploys as occasion demands while she forces safe passage through dangerously puzzling buildings, alternate timelines, and friendship and betrayal.
Following a stint on the front lines during World War I, she puts on the mantle and saucy speech of a Flapper and finally reflects--she reflects but rarely--on the source of her pressing need for vengeance against the unspeakable monsters she daily confronts.
June 10, 2020
There is a lot to like about this book. The world of monsters and the mysterious order that hunt them is fascinating. The main character, Clara, is intelligent and strong minded.
Unfortunately, the writing lets the world and characters down. It’s very sparse, reading more like an outline, and doesn’t provide the immersion that such exciting scenarios deserve. There are also some very odd turns of phrase, as well as paragraphs that seem to reference things that have been cut out.
As others have mentioned, there are also a lot of historical inaccuracies that pull you out of the narrative. I also disliked how Clara used sex to lure the monsters.
There is enough material in this book to fill several volumes about Clara. As it is, The Van Helsing Paradox is a fun, yet ultimately unsatisfying diversion.
Unfortunately, the writing lets the world and characters down. It’s very sparse, reading more like an outline, and doesn’t provide the immersion that such exciting scenarios deserve. There are also some very odd turns of phrase, as well as paragraphs that seem to reference things that have been cut out.
As others have mentioned, there are also a lot of historical inaccuracies that pull you out of the narrative. I also disliked how Clara used sex to lure the monsters.
There is enough material in this book to fill several volumes about Clara. As it is, The Van Helsing Paradox is a fun, yet ultimately unsatisfying diversion.
October 25, 2020
“The Van Helsing Paradox” is a novel about a woman who has a talent for destroying vampires and other monsters. I’ve had this book on my TBR list for almost a year now. I did start it a few times, but the first few pages were too slow for me and I kept putting it off until later. That was a mistake on my part. The pacing picks up about 1/3 of the way through the first chapter, and after that, it just keeps getting better. It’s a really enjoyable story.
Clara is a strong, smart, and interesting character. As others have pointed out, she’s a bit of a “Sherlock Holmes”--she’s already the best in the room, so rather than seeing her grow and improve over the course of the novel, you just get to see her awesome skills in action. And honestly? It’s a breath of fresh air.
Give this book a try! You won’t be disappointed.
Clara is a strong, smart, and interesting character. As others have pointed out, she’s a bit of a “Sherlock Holmes”--she’s already the best in the room, so rather than seeing her grow and improve over the course of the novel, you just get to see her awesome skills in action. And honestly? It’s a breath of fresh air.
Give this book a try! You won’t be disappointed.
August 21, 2019
The Van Helsing Paradox is an action-packed horror tale about one woman's quest to protect the world from the undead. After witnessing the brutal deaths of her parents, Clara Grey is sent away to be trained by a secret society of nuns and priests and grows up to become one of the youngest, fiercest hunters, willing to do anything to stalk and slaughter these paranormal beasts. Chartres weaves an imaginative tale about a whip-smart, ruthless, and level-headed vampire killer laid out in an anthology of missions. Plot details tend to get a bit sketchy at times, and action takes precedence over character development. The narration is also a bit modern for the story's setting, but overall, it is a brutal, intriguing story that would appeal to any vampire fan.
April 21, 2020
An epic fantasy/horror story, with one of the best female protagonists I've ever read.
I loved the story, and how we got to see Clara go from a young innocent girl to a bad ass evil killing machine. I really like Clara in particular, she felt like a very real person, and not only is she cool, but intelligent.
I also like the idea of a secret society of Nuns called "Hunters" working from the Tower to keep order in the world. Sort of like Hellboy, but it made the idea its own.
I wasn't prepared for the ending, which threw me for a turn. I knew there was a second book, but I wasn't expecting the time jump that happened. (being vague to avoid spoilers). Overall, I loved the first book, and I look forward to reading the second one.
I loved the story, and how we got to see Clara go from a young innocent girl to a bad ass evil killing machine. I really like Clara in particular, she felt like a very real person, and not only is she cool, but intelligent.
I also like the idea of a secret society of Nuns called "Hunters" working from the Tower to keep order in the world. Sort of like Hellboy, but it made the idea its own.
I wasn't prepared for the ending, which threw me for a turn. I knew there was a second book, but I wasn't expecting the time jump that happened. (being vague to avoid spoilers). Overall, I loved the first book, and I look forward to reading the second one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2019
If a fast-paced adventure is what you are looking for then I highly recommend The Van Helsing Paradox. Evelyn Chartres has got a knack when it comes to telling stories and this book is all the proof that you will need.
Set in the early 20th century I found it refreshing that not only was the era honored with appropriate language, but it was represented well with vivid details and a sharp narrative that leaves little to the imagination.
To say that I liked this book is an understatement. It was a fun fast-paced adventure that I am sure I will need to visit again in the future. Five Stars all the way.
Set in the early 20th century I found it refreshing that not only was the era honored with appropriate language, but it was represented well with vivid details and a sharp narrative that leaves little to the imagination.
To say that I liked this book is an understatement. It was a fun fast-paced adventure that I am sure I will need to visit again in the future. Five Stars all the way.
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