I just saw book four is now out, so what better time to post a review of the series so far! Apparently I also missed a novella in between 3 and 4, so I have some happy reading ahead of me.
If you’re looking for Urban Fantasy outside the typical style, then this series is well worth the look.
Book 1: Strange Practice
What a delightful surprise! I had been eyeing Strange Practice for a while but was hesitant, fearing it might veer too much into the romantic side of fantasy, just going by the cover. I am personally not the target audience for (most) romance stories.
After reading a review that highlighted the strong friendships and minimal romance, I took the plunge, and I’m so glad I did!
This book is quirky, fun, and surprisingly easy to dive into. The world of monsters; vampires, vampyres, ghouls, mummies, demons, and more; is uniquely explored through Greta Helsing’s role as their trusted doctor. She’s not a warrior or a magical being; she’s a human doctor trying to keep the supernatural creatures healthy.
Set against the backdrop of a murder spree in London, Greta’s job becomes more critical as creatures of the night seek refuge in Lord Ruthven’s house, a centuries-old vampire who’s taken it upon himself to protect London’s undead community. What I loved most about Strange Practice was how it wasn’t an action thriller but rather a slow-burn mystery where the focus is on friendships, solving a deadly puzzle, and the quirky healthcare needs of supernatural beings.
The little details,like mummies needing new bones to ease their aching joints, or the fact that ghouls prefer rotten meat but baby ghouls get fresh rats to avoid poison, had me snickering to myself. It’s these oddball details that make this book so charming. And Greta? She’s refreshing. She’s not extraordinary, doesn’t have magic, and isn’t trying to single-handedly save the world. She’s simply a doctor, and that grounded nature makes her a standout protagonist in the urban fantasy genre.
By the end, I was eager to see where the series would go next, and I happily dove into the second book.
Book 2: Dreadful Company
Book two continues to deliver the same quirky charm, this time set in Paris, where we reunite with old friends and meet some new ones. The addition of fresh monster species was particularly fun, some so cute that I found myself wishing I could adopt one as a pet.
The world-building deepens, and we get more insight into the various mythologies and creatures that populate this universe. Greta and her companions evolve as characters, and we see more of the emotional and practical toll that their lives take on them. There’s plenty of action, medical drama, and plenty of moments where I laughed out loud at the absurdity of the situations.
The pacing is just right. Fast enough to keep things exciting, but still with enough room to appreciate the charming, sometimes bizarre details that make this series stand out. It’s the perfect kind of easy read that you can devour in one sitting, and it left me eager for more.
Book 3: Grave Importance
While Grave Importance kept up the fun and quirky charm of its predecessors, I didn’t quite enjoy it as much.
While Grave Importance kept up the fun and quirky charm of its predecessors, I didn’t quite enjoy it as much. The stakes are higher, with the introduction of apocalyptic events and supernatural turmoil involving angels, demons, vampires, mummies, and the occasional screaming skull.
The stakes are higher, with the introduction of apocalyptic events and supernatural turmoil involving angels, demons, vampires, mummies, and the occasional screaming skull. I quite enjoyed the smaller scale in the series, and the close focus on Greta and her circle of friends, so this twist to probably world ending scenarios did not work well for me.
One of the things I’d adored about the earlier books was the lack of a central romance. This was a refreshing change in the urban fantasy genre, which often focuses on romance as a major plotline. While Grave Importance doesn’t turn into a romance-heavy story, I did feel that the slight shift toward romantic undertones in this book wasn’t entirely to my taste. That’s a personal preference, of course others who enjoy a bit of romance in their urban fantasy will likely appreciate it. Be aware it’s just a slight shift, if you’re looking for actual paranormal romance, this will be quite disappointing on the romance aspect.
Still, the characters and world-building continue to shine. The monsters remain lovable and fascinating, and the exploration of apocalyptic themes is intriguing, even if it wasn’t as compelling as the earlier installments. The more down to earth type of adventures just blended better with the series in my personal opinion.
Despite the shift in tone, the book was still an entertaining read, and I’ll certainly be sticking with the series to see how things unfold.
So, all in all, Greta Helsing is a unique and endearing addition to the urban fantasy genre. What makes this series stand out is its focus on friendship, the intriguing and fun details of supernatural healthcare, and a lead character who feels refreshingly ordinary in a world full of fantastical creatures. While the third book introduced a bit more romance than I would have liked, the world is still rich with fun, quirky monsters, and the story easily keeps you invested.
If you’re looking for an urban fantasy that avoids the usual tropes and delivers a fun, lighthearted mystery with a touch of the macabre, Greta Helsing is a must-read. The series is quirky, engaging, and full of heart! I can’t wait to see where the journey goes next, on Strange New World!
