3 Stars
Even vampires get the blues.
The story is based on a human doctor, Greta Helsing whose medical practice caters solely to the supernatural inhabitants of London. It features an ensemble cast of character, which makes for interesting reading as you uncover her various patients' species and their strengths and weaknesses. It's all another day of humdrum illnesses and ordinary treatments until a murderous cult starts killing Londoners--and no one's safe.
Not the supernatural and not the humans.
With the mystery set into motion and characters endangered, the plot ratchets up and we begin to appreciate the differences of each species. The theme of "the other" and the inherit right to exist is prevalent as the host of supernatural characters are humanized. It's pretty clear to see the relevance with events happening today. I liked this a lot. There were some pretty wide divergences in the species "talents", but they all offered something.
So the gang is all in trying to solve the problem before the "regulars" aka humans find out about the less "normal" citizens of London. It's entertaining and well paced. I liked it, but didn't love it. I had a few issues. Greta has some character inconsistencies. While secrecy about supernaturals is paramount, Great does not share intel of the murderous cult with her supernatural coworkers, there's no letting the cat out of the bag, so this doesn't make sense. Helsing is a dedicated doctor, yet, when a patient was at the point of needing more care, they were not forwarded to a proper hospital with all the advantages of equipment she lacked--this I don't understand. Finally, there's some issues with the ending both how Greta responds and acts and the appearance of another character popping in like deus ex machina. which just is great since things get resolved and explained, but very convenient. Too convenient.
Overall, I found it diverting, but not in-depth. A few quibbles, but definitely a vacation read.
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