While I don’t typically read vampire stories, knowing that Zaplendam is a skilled writer, I was eager to read "Order of the Blood: The Unofficial Chronicles of John Grissom." I anticipated an engaging story, and I wasn’t disappointed!
Zaplendam did a wonderful job of seizing my interest from the start, weaving an intriguing and clever tale endowed with original characters that I became highly invested in. The plot is strong and layered with twists and rich character development. The dialogue is crisp, witty, and entertaining.
John Grissom, a young man of Regency England, is striving to discover a cure for vampirism. The stakes are high, as he himself has been inflicted. Yet oddly, he isn’t like other vampires endowed with super strength, speed, and night vision. He can even withstand sunlight. But as a Catholic vampire with a conscience, he’s in an extremely complex situation; and his humanism and sense of right and wrong war with his vampirism. Plagued by a repulsive thirst for blood, he must be constantly alert lest he succumb to temptation. And temptations abound.
Miss Henrietta Isherwood, his lovely new lab assistant, is no shrinking violet (even with a father who’s been turned to a vampire). Every bit the lady, she’s intelligent and intrepid without being overbearing. John’s and Henrietta’s interactions lend humor, depth, and spark to the story. An underlying attraction flits between them, yet a strong sense of propriety, professionalism--and, of course, vampirism--challenges their relationship.
Meanwhile, a top vampire, the evil Mr. Waite, is heading a terrible conspiracy that threatens the entire country. While John may seem an unlikely choice to take Waite down, he rises to the task and pairs up with a formidable vampire hunter.
Even though "Order of the Blood" holds plenty of danger and suspense, the story never became too dark for my enjoyment. My favorite scene is a chilling one in which circumstances confine John and Henrietta together as an unspeakable, horrible decision overshadows them. Their vulnerability and concern for one another is particularly moving under the pressure of their shocking circumstances.
Zaplendam did a remarkable job of writing this entire novel from John’s viewpoint. The setting and details struck me as historically authentic and well-researched. Above all, I admire the way the author used a vampire story (without being repulsive) to tell an exciting tale with real substance, one that makes readers ponder moral truths and, in particular, to consider what really makes a monster.
You’ll be delighted, as I was, to learn that "Order of the Blood" is the first of a planned series by Zaplendam, because by the book’s end, you won’t want to say goodbye to John or Henrietta. For anyone who is considering picking up a vampire story, this one--graced with depth and morality--is the perfect one to choose!
Reviewed by:
Therese Heckenkamp
Christian suspense novelist
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required. Learn more
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Loading your book clubs
There was a problem loading your book clubs. Please try again.
Not in a club? Learn more
Join or create book clubs
Choose books together
Track your books
Bring your club to Amazon Book Clubs, start a new book club and invite your friends to join, or find a club that’s right for you for free.
![Order of the Blood: Historical Vampire Mystery (The Unofficial Chronicles of John Grissom Book 1) by [Page Zaplendam]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51HO2p4G60L._SY346_.jpg)
Follow the Author
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.
| Price | New from | Used from |
|
Audible Audiobook, Unabridged
"Please retry" |
$0.00
| Free with your Audible trial | |
|
Paperback, Illustrated
"Please retry" | $9.20 | $7.36 |
- Read with Our Free App
-
Audiobook
$0.00 - 2 Used from $7.36 5 New from $9.20 1 Collectible from $14.95
All 3 for you in this series
See full series
Customers who bought this item also bought
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on January 13, 2016
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 19, 2020
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 6, 2017
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 25, 2017
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 1, 2018
Top reviews from other countries
Siobhán
Enthralling, unique and informative!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on October 28, 2015
