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Sanguine #1
Spirit Sanguine
Is that a wooden stake in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?
After putting his innate vampire hunting skills into good use in eastern Europe, Gabe is back in his hometown Chicago, feeling adrift. At least, until he has a run-in with a sexy, young vampire who seems more interested in getting into his pants than biting into his neck.
Harvey Feng is half-Chinese, all vampire, and has a tongue as sharp as his fangs. He warns Gabe to stay out of the Windy City, yet he isn’t surprised when the slayer lands back on his doorstep.
Against their better judgment, slayer and vampire succumb to their mutual attraction, but their affair attracts unexpected attention.
When Chicago’s Vampire Boss makes Gabe an offer he can’t refuse, the unlikely lovers are thrust into peril and mystery in the dark heart of the city. Together they hunt for kidnappers, a killer preying on young humans, and vicious vampire junkies.
However, dealing with murderous humans and vampires alike is easy compared to figuring out if there’s more to their relationship than hot, kinky sex.
Warning: Fangalicious man-on-man action, a troublesome twink, cross-dressing, and role-playing involving a fedora.
After putting his innate vampire hunting skills into good use in eastern Europe, Gabe is back in his hometown Chicago, feeling adrift. At least, until he has a run-in with a sexy, young vampire who seems more interested in getting into his pants than biting into his neck.
Harvey Feng is half-Chinese, all vampire, and has a tongue as sharp as his fangs. He warns Gabe to stay out of the Windy City, yet he isn’t surprised when the slayer lands back on his doorstep.
Against their better judgment, slayer and vampire succumb to their mutual attraction, but their affair attracts unexpected attention.
When Chicago’s Vampire Boss makes Gabe an offer he can’t refuse, the unlikely lovers are thrust into peril and mystery in the dark heart of the city. Together they hunt for kidnappers, a killer preying on young humans, and vicious vampire junkies.
However, dealing with murderous humans and vampires alike is easy compared to figuring out if there’s more to their relationship than hot, kinky sex.
Warning: Fangalicious man-on-man action, a troublesome twink, cross-dressing, and role-playing involving a fedora.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2013
24 people are currently reading
979 people want to read
About the author
Lou Harper
34 books341 followersUnder a prickly, cynical surface Lou Harper is an incorrigible romantic. Her love affair with the written word started at a tender age. There was never a time when stories weren't romping around in her head. She is currently embroiled in a ruinous romance with adjectives. In her free time Lou stalks deviant words and feral narratives.
Lou's favorite animal is the hedgehog. She likes nature, books, movies, photography, and good food. She has a temper and mood swings.
Lou has misspent most of her life in parts of Europe and the US, but is now firmly settled in Los Angeles and worships the sun. However, she thinks the ocean smells funny. Lou is a loner, a misfit, and a happy drunk.
Blog: http://louharper.blogspot.com
Book cove designs: http://lharper.deviantart.com/gallery
Lou's favorite animal is the hedgehog. She likes nature, books, movies, photography, and good food. She has a temper and mood swings.
Lou has misspent most of her life in parts of Europe and the US, but is now firmly settled in Los Angeles and worships the sun. However, she thinks the ocean smells funny. Lou is a loner, a misfit, and a happy drunk.
Blog: http://louharper.blogspot.com
Book cove designs: http://lharper.deviantart.com/gallery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
June 1, 2018
Posted at Shelf Inflicted
I like my vampires moody, ambiguous, and deadly.
Though Harvey Feng is potentially deadly, you’d have to push him real hard before you get to see that side of him. Most of the time, he’s just a sweet, friendly guy without a mean bone in his body. He’s also a vegetarian and a Buddhist who rarely drinks human blood, instead drinking a formula of his own invention. Even though he’s not a mean vampire, it didn’t take long at all for me to warm up to him. Harvey is adorable and funny, even during the grimmest of circumstances.
Gabe Vadas comes from a family of vampire slayers, but he’s having second thoughts about his profession. In spite of his doubts, his Uncle Miklos’ words, “the only good vampire is a dead vampire” help him to focus on the task of pursuing and killing the attractive, sexy vampire he encountered in a crowded Chicago bar. Gabe gets a taste of Harvey’s strength and agility and the merciful vampire lets him go. When Gabe uses the electronic tracking device in his jacket to locate Harvey again, he is nearly successful at killing him. Gabe is puzzled by Harvey, so different from the vile and aggressive “bloodsuckers” he and his uncle chased in Europe. Gabe’s life is further complicated when Harvey asks him to see a movie. He is strong and clever while he’s pursuing rogue vampires, but resistant to exploring his deeper feelings about Harvey.
Their story is divided up into three sections. In Seeing Red, Harvey’s and Gabe’s relationship develops. Though they are natural enemies, it is clear early on that they are smitten. Harvey learns a few things about Gabe’s past, and Gabe learns about the customs, behaviors and quirky habits of vampires. Harvey’s vampire friends, Stan and Ray, are introduced, as well as his cute, chatty friend, Dill, who badly wants to be turned into a vampire and ends up going missing. Gabe helps a frantic Harvey find Dill and winds up getting a job offer from Victor Augustine, Chicago’s head vampire.
In The Cheerful Corpse, Gabe and Harvey work together with Denton Mills, a pierced and taciturn man with a special knack for seeing how people died, to solve the murders of two willing vampire snacks. The mystery was satisfying and fast-paced, and I enjoyed seeing Gabe’s and Harvey’s relationship grow. Gabe shows how protective he can be, and both men have a slight possessive streak that made me laugh.
In Bad Blood, Gabe and Harvey’s investigation of mysterious deaths at a hospice lead them to the highest level of the vampire hierarchy in Las Vegas. Gabe starts to show his vulnerable side and their sexual role-playing becomes more intense.
This was a fun and satisfying story that kept me absorbed right up to the very end. I loved Gabe’s and Harvey’s very different personalities, their sizzling chemistry, the challenges they face, and the vibrant cast of secondary characters.
I very much look forward to the sequel.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
I like my vampires moody, ambiguous, and deadly.
Though Harvey Feng is potentially deadly, you’d have to push him real hard before you get to see that side of him. Most of the time, he’s just a sweet, friendly guy without a mean bone in his body. He’s also a vegetarian and a Buddhist who rarely drinks human blood, instead drinking a formula of his own invention. Even though he’s not a mean vampire, it didn’t take long at all for me to warm up to him. Harvey is adorable and funny, even during the grimmest of circumstances.
Gabe Vadas comes from a family of vampire slayers, but he’s having second thoughts about his profession. In spite of his doubts, his Uncle Miklos’ words, “the only good vampire is a dead vampire” help him to focus on the task of pursuing and killing the attractive, sexy vampire he encountered in a crowded Chicago bar. Gabe gets a taste of Harvey’s strength and agility and the merciful vampire lets him go. When Gabe uses the electronic tracking device in his jacket to locate Harvey again, he is nearly successful at killing him. Gabe is puzzled by Harvey, so different from the vile and aggressive “bloodsuckers” he and his uncle chased in Europe. Gabe’s life is further complicated when Harvey asks him to see a movie. He is strong and clever while he’s pursuing rogue vampires, but resistant to exploring his deeper feelings about Harvey.
Their story is divided up into three sections. In Seeing Red, Harvey’s and Gabe’s relationship develops. Though they are natural enemies, it is clear early on that they are smitten. Harvey learns a few things about Gabe’s past, and Gabe learns about the customs, behaviors and quirky habits of vampires. Harvey’s vampire friends, Stan and Ray, are introduced, as well as his cute, chatty friend, Dill, who badly wants to be turned into a vampire and ends up going missing. Gabe helps a frantic Harvey find Dill and winds up getting a job offer from Victor Augustine, Chicago’s head vampire.
In The Cheerful Corpse, Gabe and Harvey work together with Denton Mills, a pierced and taciturn man with a special knack for seeing how people died, to solve the murders of two willing vampire snacks. The mystery was satisfying and fast-paced, and I enjoyed seeing Gabe’s and Harvey’s relationship grow. Gabe shows how protective he can be, and both men have a slight possessive streak that made me laugh.
In Bad Blood, Gabe and Harvey’s investigation of mysterious deaths at a hospice lead them to the highest level of the vampire hierarchy in Las Vegas. Gabe starts to show his vulnerable side and their sexual role-playing becomes more intense.
This was a fun and satisfying story that kept me absorbed right up to the very end. I loved Gabe’s and Harvey’s very different personalities, their sizzling chemistry, the challenges they face, and the vibrant cast of secondary characters.
I very much look forward to the sequel.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2018
Re-Read May 2018
Still so very good and am looking forward to dive into book 2 very soon...
Still a solid 4.5 ⭐️ s
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4.5
I've read some Lou Harper before but this is by far my fave book by the author. Spirit Sanguine follows a similar style to that of her last release Dead in L.A by introducing us to two characters that closely have to work with each other while building a loving relationship. But this one was such an eclectic mix of themes that it really brought the "wow" factor, and Harvey and Gabe are now two of my favest characters.
Gabe is back in America after spending 5 years in Eastern Europe hunting vampires, yep he's been staking the crap out of bloodsuckers. His uncle who trained him and open his eyes to a brand new scary world after the death of his parents, and when the man died he decided a change was in order. He doesn't feel like vampire hunting is his niche anymore, and maybe being back in Chicago will bring some things into perspective. Only thing now is that, he knows there are vampires, and Chicago has them too. A night at a club, and suddenly Gabe's vampire senses are prickling, and he hones in on a very attractive blood sucker. Obviously Gabe is losing his mind if he's finding vampires attractive, but 5 years of killing doesn't just leave you and Gabe begins to stalk his prey. Too bad said prey is on to his game, and Gabe gets a dart in the backside and off to unconscious land he goes.
Gabe should be around dead right now but somehow he's still alive and having a faceoff with the attractive vampire. Seems there's a code of conduct on the undead streets of Chicago and attractive vampire won't be killing him. But as soon as Gabe is free he's planning on staking the son of a bitch and going full stealth mode to do it. Well...Gabe seems to be off his game and he's once again taking on the vamp who's named Harvey Feng (a cosmic cruel joke) and the fight has gone out of Gabe. Instead of wanting to kill Harvey, he actually would rather bed him, and as they say the rest becomes history. Gabe's got to meet the big boss, land himself a job, and get caught up in the lives of vampires (who knew?).
This book seriously has bit of everything for everyone. There's snark, sexy vampire man love, and action (with entertaining bits of sexy role-play). Gabe becomes a somewhat investigator for the vampire world, and with Harvey by his side its never a dull moment. The style of the book is something that isn't done very often in M/M with Megan Derr doing it before with her Dance with the Devil series, and Lou Harper also with her Dead in L.A. Each segment is a case, and in the end it all comes together beautifully. It’s like a set of mini stories, each adding something to the plot, and then *boom* it reaches it peaks.
I love the relationship between Harvey and Gabe, not in any way perfect but very believable in how they come together. They create this balance for each other and somehow knew each other better than they knew themselves. It all gets reflected in the storytelling, and there is so much character chemistry it’s insane in the membrane. I am like a serious fan of Gabe and Harvey, and with Harvey being half Chinese there is just no contest. Vampires, Asian character, and a Vampire hunter (with addict vampires) this book had me at 'hello'.
Should You Read It? I don't even know why you haven't gone out and bought it yet O_O. There is a lot of fun packed in these pages and Lou Harper did it big in this one, I am now huge fan. I can't wait to read more!
MORE OF MY REVIEWS & RAMBLINGS AT Pants Off Reviews
Still so very good and am looking forward to dive into book 2 very soon...
Still a solid 4.5 ⭐️ s
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4.5
I've read some Lou Harper before but this is by far my fave book by the author. Spirit Sanguine follows a similar style to that of her last release Dead in L.A by introducing us to two characters that closely have to work with each other while building a loving relationship. But this one was such an eclectic mix of themes that it really brought the "wow" factor, and Harvey and Gabe are now two of my favest characters.
Gabe is back in America after spending 5 years in Eastern Europe hunting vampires, yep he's been staking the crap out of bloodsuckers. His uncle who trained him and open his eyes to a brand new scary world after the death of his parents, and when the man died he decided a change was in order. He doesn't feel like vampire hunting is his niche anymore, and maybe being back in Chicago will bring some things into perspective. Only thing now is that, he knows there are vampires, and Chicago has them too. A night at a club, and suddenly Gabe's vampire senses are prickling, and he hones in on a very attractive blood sucker. Obviously Gabe is losing his mind if he's finding vampires attractive, but 5 years of killing doesn't just leave you and Gabe begins to stalk his prey. Too bad said prey is on to his game, and Gabe gets a dart in the backside and off to unconscious land he goes.
Gabe should be around dead right now but somehow he's still alive and having a faceoff with the attractive vampire. Seems there's a code of conduct on the undead streets of Chicago and attractive vampire won't be killing him. But as soon as Gabe is free he's planning on staking the son of a bitch and going full stealth mode to do it. Well...Gabe seems to be off his game and he's once again taking on the vamp who's named Harvey Feng (a cosmic cruel joke) and the fight has gone out of Gabe. Instead of wanting to kill Harvey, he actually would rather bed him, and as they say the rest becomes history. Gabe's got to meet the big boss, land himself a job, and get caught up in the lives of vampires (who knew?).
This book seriously has bit of everything for everyone. There's snark, sexy vampire man love, and action (with entertaining bits of sexy role-play). Gabe becomes a somewhat investigator for the vampire world, and with Harvey by his side its never a dull moment. The style of the book is something that isn't done very often in M/M with Megan Derr doing it before with her Dance with the Devil series, and Lou Harper also with her Dead in L.A. Each segment is a case, and in the end it all comes together beautifully. It’s like a set of mini stories, each adding something to the plot, and then *boom* it reaches it peaks.
I love the relationship between Harvey and Gabe, not in any way perfect but very believable in how they come together. They create this balance for each other and somehow knew each other better than they knew themselves. It all gets reflected in the storytelling, and there is so much character chemistry it’s insane in the membrane. I am like a serious fan of Gabe and Harvey, and with Harvey being half Chinese there is just no contest. Vampires, Asian character, and a Vampire hunter (with addict vampires) this book had me at 'hello'.
Should You Read It? I don't even know why you haven't gone out and bought it yet O_O. There is a lot of fun packed in these pages and Lou Harper did it big in this one, I am now huge fan. I can't wait to read more!
MORE OF MY REVIEWS & RAMBLINGS AT Pants Off Reviews
June 30, 2013
Er, sorry, I read this book ten days ago, so my review is not going to be as in-depth as it would have been if I'd written it as soon as I finished the book.
This book was pretty much awesome. Thrilling, exciting, intriguing, fun and sexy. Yup, all of that, plus some snarky banter.
Just when I think I won't be able to stomach one more vampire book because I'm just so bored of fangs and capes, some author comes up with a story so refreshingly good that its vampireness doesn't even bother me. This was exactly the case with this novel. The vampire lore isn't particularly original, but it's handled in a way that doesn't pretend to be new and shiny, letting me enjoy the rest of the story without having to roll my eyes at every mention of blood and immortality.
I loved the fact that the MCs get together at the beginning of the book, after some healthy conflict to start off with a bang, and the rest of the romance part of the book is spent watching them work through all the issues that prevent theirs from being a normal, no-sweat relationship (stupid men will be stupid men, and it's highly entertaining). Until the relationship was firmly established, there was a general sense of sluttiness/flirtiness (depending on your sensibilities, I suppose) that made me a little uncomfortable, but didn't bother me too much - especially thanks to the fact that, as it turns out, both MCs are actually possessive fucks. Yum.
I feel like I should mention the sex - because let's be honest, if you're even reading this, at least 30% of why you want to read this book is the sex. Try to look me in the eye and deny it. There wasn't a lot of sex. There were some very detailed scenes and some complete black outs, and this left me perplexed, as there was no logic, as far as I could see, in the choice of the handling of each scene. Anyhow, this was the first book where I found role playing sex! And I have to admit, it was pretty interesting. Okay, a lot interesting. I could totally read some more. If I were forced to, mind you.
The non-romance part of the story was made up of little crime/mystery cases - three or four in the whole book. Made for comfortable splitting up of the novel, but I still read it in one day - that says a lot about its compellingness, I believe. Or maybe it just says a lot about me.
The secondary characters are colorful, intriguing and some of them (more specifically Dead Man) ridiculously hot, which makes for: spin-offs. Unleash your writerly powers, Lou Harper, I'll be here to suffer through it all. And hey, we have a great start, what with Dead Man & the Restless Spirits waiting for me in an online store as soon as I finally decide to part with some of my money.
My biggest problem with this book was the ending. The last chapter felt like that part at the end of a non-fiction movie where there's a written summary of "what actually happened, and why". It ruined my overall feeling of satisfaction and left me feeling a bit cheated.
There are some unresolved issues/mysteries but I understand there's going to be a sequel, so I'm cool with that. Not to put any pressure on the author, but I want it now.
This book was pretty much awesome. Thrilling, exciting, intriguing, fun and sexy. Yup, all of that, plus some snarky banter.
Just when I think I won't be able to stomach one more vampire book because I'm just so bored of fangs and capes, some author comes up with a story so refreshingly good that its vampireness doesn't even bother me. This was exactly the case with this novel. The vampire lore isn't particularly original, but it's handled in a way that doesn't pretend to be new and shiny, letting me enjoy the rest of the story without having to roll my eyes at every mention of blood and immortality.
I loved the fact that the MCs get together at the beginning of the book, after some healthy conflict to start off with a bang, and the rest of the romance part of the book is spent watching them work through all the issues that prevent theirs from being a normal, no-sweat relationship (stupid men will be stupid men, and it's highly entertaining). Until the relationship was firmly established, there was a general sense of sluttiness/flirtiness (depending on your sensibilities, I suppose) that made me a little uncomfortable, but didn't bother me too much - especially thanks to the fact that, as it turns out, both MCs are actually possessive fucks. Yum.
I feel like I should mention the sex - because let's be honest, if you're even reading this, at least 30% of why you want to read this book is the sex. Try to look me in the eye and deny it. There wasn't a lot of sex. There were some very detailed scenes and some complete black outs, and this left me perplexed, as there was no logic, as far as I could see, in the choice of the handling of each scene. Anyhow, this was the first book where I found role playing sex! And I have to admit, it was pretty interesting. Okay, a lot interesting. I could totally read some more. If I were forced to, mind you.
The non-romance part of the story was made up of little crime/mystery cases - three or four in the whole book. Made for comfortable splitting up of the novel, but I still read it in one day - that says a lot about its compellingness, I believe. Or maybe it just says a lot about me.
The secondary characters are colorful, intriguing and some of them (more specifically Dead Man) ridiculously hot, which makes for: spin-offs. Unleash your writerly powers, Lou Harper, I'll be here to suffer through it all. And hey, we have a great start, what with Dead Man & the Restless Spirits waiting for me in an online store as soon as I finally decide to part with some of my money.
My biggest problem with this book was the ending. The last chapter felt like that part at the end of a non-fiction movie where there's a written summary of "what actually happened, and why". It ruined my overall feeling of satisfaction and left me feeling a bit cheated.
There are some unresolved issues/mysteries but I understand there's going to be a sequel, so I'm cool with that. Not to put any pressure on the author, but I want it now.
May 14, 2013
Very enjoyable set of three connected paranormal mystery romance novellas about Gabe, a vampire slayer returning to Chicago from an extended period of vamp killing in Europe, and Harvey, the hot young vampire that has caught his attention and altered all his slayer assumptions.
After Last Stop and Dead in L.A., Lou Harper is becoming an auto-buy for me. I dig her straight-forward, unburdened writing style, her no-nonsense main characters, and the realistic and often very funny dialogue. (A part of my heart belongs to Harper’s dialogue, both for its sharp humor, and how characters overlay their meaning in the words they chose to share with each other.)
Like Dead in L.A., which was two connected novellas about a paranormal investigator and his cranky lover, Spirit Sanguine is three novellas that involves the same characters and develops one larger story about their relationship as they solve the three episodic mysteries in each story.
The format worked really well, and for me, it was like reading a really good TV miniseries, one that has the episodic nature and also the overarching storyline and development. I loved Gabe and Harvey’s chemistry, and how they grew to care for each other as well as enjoy their playful and sexy bedroom dynamic (especially with Harvey's mental rolodex of role-playing ideas.) I also dug Harvey's tenacity, especially when it came to challenging Gabe’s assumptions. (Their first meeting boils down to Gabe wanting to kill Harvey and Harvey asking “Why? What have I done to YOU?” Which forces Gabe to think, “Wait, he’s not a senseless killing vampire. Hmmmmmm...” And I loved watching Gabe’s slow unravel as he found himself drawn back to Harvey, in spite of his honed slayer instincts.
Along with Gabe and Harvey, the side characters that dot the three stories are very colorful and interesting, from drama-drama human Dillon and his two vampire daddies, to “Dead Man” Denton and his ability to sense the traces of the recently deceased, to super-hot Jade, the elegant drag queen vamp that towers over the nightlife in her high heels.
I really dug the “vampire realism” in this story. Even though vampires are stronger and have certain special abilities like charming victims, there was an urban grittiness that made you feel you were still in modern day Chicago, riding the El train. (You were just riding it with a vampire.) In that way, It reminded a little of another realistically vampire book, JCP’s Hemovore.
The everyday details of Gabe and Harvey’s relationship, from what they stocked in the fridge to Gabe’s near-constant fear of Harvey’s driving abilities, all those little bits that popped in throughout the three stories also added some neat depth (and a lot of humor.)
Even though the book is three novellas, all together they’re pretty long, at over 74,000+ words, so for me, it was both a good reading experience, and one that was nicely solid.
My only main niggle was that sometimes in the beginning of each novella, some information or details were repeated, which gave me the impression that the stories had at one point been separated and published at different times. (Except I believe this is their first time being printed.) That will probably bother you less if you’re reading this book in pieces and stopping to take a break between stories. It felt a little repetitive reading straight through, but that’s a small complaint.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I recommend it for anyone who likes their m/m with a paranormal twist. The romance angle is very good—understated a little because Gabe as the third person POV is understated, but still, very satisfying.
I’m a little sad that I can’t watch this series on TV because it is such a great mix of characters, banter, romance, and action. Maybe someday...
I would definitely love to read more adventures with Gabe&Harvey. I’m psyched to see there’s a new free short story with them, and also an upcoming follow-up book that focuses on Dead Man Denton. I’m looking forward to checking those both out, but I’m also greedy, and wouldn’t mind more after that.
After Last Stop and Dead in L.A., Lou Harper is becoming an auto-buy for me. I dig her straight-forward, unburdened writing style, her no-nonsense main characters, and the realistic and often very funny dialogue. (A part of my heart belongs to Harper’s dialogue, both for its sharp humor, and how characters overlay their meaning in the words they chose to share with each other.)
Like Dead in L.A., which was two connected novellas about a paranormal investigator and his cranky lover, Spirit Sanguine is three novellas that involves the same characters and develops one larger story about their relationship as they solve the three episodic mysteries in each story.
The format worked really well, and for me, it was like reading a really good TV miniseries, one that has the episodic nature and also the overarching storyline and development. I loved Gabe and Harvey’s chemistry, and how they grew to care for each other as well as enjoy their playful and sexy bedroom dynamic (especially with Harvey's mental rolodex of role-playing ideas.) I also dug Harvey's tenacity, especially when it came to challenging Gabe’s assumptions. (Their first meeting boils down to Gabe wanting to kill Harvey and Harvey asking “Why? What have I done to YOU?” Which forces Gabe to think, “Wait, he’s not a senseless killing vampire. Hmmmmmm...” And I loved watching Gabe’s slow unravel as he found himself drawn back to Harvey, in spite of his honed slayer instincts.
Along with Gabe and Harvey, the side characters that dot the three stories are very colorful and interesting, from drama-drama human Dillon and his two vampire daddies, to “Dead Man” Denton and his ability to sense the traces of the recently deceased, to super-hot Jade, the elegant drag queen vamp that towers over the nightlife in her high heels.
I really dug the “vampire realism” in this story. Even though vampires are stronger and have certain special abilities like charming victims, there was an urban grittiness that made you feel you were still in modern day Chicago, riding the El train. (You were just riding it with a vampire.) In that way, It reminded a little of another realistically vampire book, JCP’s Hemovore.
The everyday details of Gabe and Harvey’s relationship, from what they stocked in the fridge to Gabe’s near-constant fear of Harvey’s driving abilities, all those little bits that popped in throughout the three stories also added some neat depth (and a lot of humor.)
Even though the book is three novellas, all together they’re pretty long, at over 74,000+ words, so for me, it was both a good reading experience, and one that was nicely solid.
My only main niggle was that sometimes in the beginning of each novella, some information or details were repeated, which gave me the impression that the stories had at one point been separated and published at different times. (Except I believe this is their first time being printed.) That will probably bother you less if you’re reading this book in pieces and stopping to take a break between stories. It felt a little repetitive reading straight through, but that’s a small complaint.
Overall, I really enjoyed it, and I recommend it for anyone who likes their m/m with a paranormal twist. The romance angle is very good—understated a little because Gabe as the third person POV is understated, but still, very satisfying.
I’m a little sad that I can’t watch this series on TV because it is such a great mix of characters, banter, romance, and action. Maybe someday...
I would definitely love to read more adventures with Gabe&Harvey. I’m psyched to see there’s a new free short story with them, and also an upcoming follow-up book that focuses on Dead Man Denton. I’m looking forward to checking those both out, but I’m also greedy, and wouldn’t mind more after that.
May 2, 2013
A pleasant, enjoyable book. Harvey could be my favourite vampire character ever (not that I have a huge amount of experience with them).
I enjoyed the first 2/3 more than the last 1/3. The first two stories were more clearly mystery-based, and also more fun and light-hearted, as we get to know the charcters and their world. The last section seemed less fully-realised, and being set in a different location with a different set of characters made me suspect Harper didn't know what else to do with the core cast she'd just carefully introduced us to.
There were quite a few times where Harper committed one of my key annoyances: swathes of text describing what a character had done, instead of letting us see it happen.
"Gabe told Harvey all about his immigrant parents . . . about the smells of his mother’s kitchen . . . about the little store . . . " yadda yadda yadda. That's 171 words that could have been handled way more deftly: maybe a scene where Gabe describes one specific time when he and his mom are at home, cooking a special dessert, waiting for Gabe's dad to return from the store. This was a chance to see some depth in Gabe and in his reminisences, and there wasn't any attempt to use it.
There is an over-arching mythos for both Harvey and Gabe's origins, and I'll be interested to see how this will all tie in together. There's plenty (so much!) left untold, so I'm sure this will have a sequel. (There was also a very pointed Chekov's gun which remained unfired, so I have to assume that's being left set up for book 2.)
3.5 stars overall, rounding up because Harvey.
I enjoyed the first 2/3 more than the last 1/3. The first two stories were more clearly mystery-based, and also more fun and light-hearted, as we get to know the charcters and their world. The last section seemed less fully-realised, and being set in a different location with a different set of characters made me suspect Harper didn't know what else to do with the core cast she'd just carefully introduced us to.
There were quite a few times where Harper committed one of my key annoyances: swathes of text describing what a character had done, instead of letting us see it happen.
"Gabe told Harvey all about his immigrant parents . . . about the smells of his mother’s kitchen . . . about the little store . . . " yadda yadda yadda. That's 171 words that could have been handled way more deftly: maybe a scene where Gabe describes one specific time when he and his mom are at home, cooking a special dessert, waiting for Gabe's dad to return from the store. This was a chance to see some depth in Gabe and in his reminisences, and there wasn't any attempt to use it.
There is an over-arching mythos for both Harvey and Gabe's origins, and I'll be interested to see how this will all tie in together. There's plenty (so much!) left untold, so I'm sure this will have a sequel. (There was also a very pointed Chekov's gun which remained unfired, so I have to assume that's being left set up for book 2.)
3.5 stars overall, rounding up because Harvey.
May 6, 2013
This has the most eclectic mix of tags I've ever given a book. Surprisingly, they all went together! And even more, it kinda represents this book, which is a bit of a hodge-podge of different quirks and ideas, even plotting and pacing which I found rather refreshing. Definitely not typical vampire fare!
4.5 stars
Proper Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
I hadn't planned on giving this book a proper review, but when Sunday rolled around and I was still thinking about this book, so I decided that it really needed one. For some reason, and I sincerely hope that this is just my 2D, rather limited view of the m/m romance reading community, this book hasn't seemed to have had a real splash yet. And that's a damn shame. Here's what I said on Goodreads immediately after I finished the book Satuday:
Now, the tags here are pretty much similar to the ones on Goodreads, but since I can more easily edit and add tags here at the blog, they of course have a bit more flair ;) I have to admit that I've fallen into a bit of a pattern in my mismanagement of my m/m reading, where many of the most exciting releases seem to slip through the net (there are many factors, though it still makes me a dolt) mostly because of reviewing duties, but Lou Harper is perhaps one on the top of the list of those stellar authors that I haven't given their due. Perhaps I should do a backlist read. Anyway, this book wasn't just well written, but it was a thoroughly enjoyable read, for many reasons I'll talk about later. But that brings me to another point. Another byproduct of my reviewing duties is that I tend to analyze first rather than enjoy the book first, and having not originally slated Spirit Sanguine as a review book and (imagine this!) actually making myself sit down and read a book for pleasure instead of work on reviews I should be getting up to date, meant that this one just slipped right through and knocked me flat. I didn't really have to think about an analysis of the book, of styles and pacing and plot and characterizations, but… I just enjoyed it. It was a refreshing read, and not something I was expecting from the vampire angle.
Lou has an interesting take on her book up on her review on Goodreads, which you can read here. In it, she says:
(That's the truth.)
And that's the point. In a sub-genre where melodrama rules and/or kinky vampire sex clubs are the forte, humor takes precedent here, brought forth by the vivacious and quirky Harvey (I love the name, and not just the Feng/Fang part, the fact that her vampire is named Harvey), who isn't really like any other of his kind. In actuality, I'd rather not go into characterization here, because I'd rather not cut him into pieces to analyze him. He's best enjoyed as it's written… plus, you'll find plenty in other reviews, I'm sure. The same goes for Gabe, who is perhaps the undervalued of the pair, though it's important that he's the lens we see the world through, and even more in which we see Harvey through. His understanding of and feelings for Harvey are how we understand him best, in reflection.
What was really refreshing about this book for me was also in a second part -- the style, which is reflected in pacing but also the plot. Both were atypical in that they don't follow the usual structure. Broken into three parts, each concentrates on a different aspect of the story while they, in succession, follow a continual arc. Some readers might find this off-putting. I'm not really sure. I quite enjoyed it. Because while the first is a typical setup to the story and introduces the relationship between Gabe and Harvey, the second and third both have a somewhat separate plot, though they're tied together. But you do get the feeling, between the transition between Parts 2 and 3, that there's a bit of a jog. And consequently, you'll find two climaxes (one at the end of each part) around the 55% mark and the end of the book.
Nikyta noticed this as well and made a remark to me about it (in our many back and forth book gabbing emails) and probably described it better than I did, asking if I had noticed authors using this style more lately, the (in her words) "multiple mini stories in one book of the same couple" style. We both automatically thought of Megan Derr, who sometimes writes in a similar though pretty different style from what I'm describing in Spirit Sanguine. Perhaps it's that Gabe and Harvey really only have two distinct adventures and Megan Derr often writes books that are split between the many adventures one couple has, a sort of extended vignette style. Nik thought that maybe it was a style that was becoming more popular. I'm not sure, but suffice to say that it is something that we've both enjoyed. And definitely something that I found made Lou Harper's book infinitely more original -- though, of course, anything with a vampire named Harvey Feng could hardly be called conventional.
Read the book. And please enjoy it!
4.5 stars
Proper Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
I hadn't planned on giving this book a proper review, but when Sunday rolled around and I was still thinking about this book, so I decided that it really needed one. For some reason, and I sincerely hope that this is just my 2D, rather limited view of the m/m romance reading community, this book hasn't seemed to have had a real splash yet. And that's a damn shame. Here's what I said on Goodreads immediately after I finished the book Satuday:
This has the most eclectic mix of tags I've ever given a book. Surprisingly, they all went together! And even more, it kinda represents this book, which is a bit of a hodge-podge of different quirks and ideas, even plotting and pacing which I found rather refreshing. Definitely not typical vampire fare!
Now, the tags here are pretty much similar to the ones on Goodreads, but since I can more easily edit and add tags here at the blog, they of course have a bit more flair ;) I have to admit that I've fallen into a bit of a pattern in my mismanagement of my m/m reading, where many of the most exciting releases seem to slip through the net (there are many factors, though it still makes me a dolt) mostly because of reviewing duties, but Lou Harper is perhaps one on the top of the list of those stellar authors that I haven't given their due. Perhaps I should do a backlist read. Anyway, this book wasn't just well written, but it was a thoroughly enjoyable read, for many reasons I'll talk about later. But that brings me to another point. Another byproduct of my reviewing duties is that I tend to analyze first rather than enjoy the book first, and having not originally slated Spirit Sanguine as a review book and (imagine this!) actually making myself sit down and read a book for pleasure instead of work on reviews I should be getting up to date, meant that this one just slipped right through and knocked me flat. I didn't really have to think about an analysis of the book, of styles and pacing and plot and characterizations, but… I just enjoyed it. It was a refreshing read, and not something I was expecting from the vampire angle.
Lou has an interesting take on her book up on her review on Goodreads, which you can read here. In it, she says:
Bloodsuckers are everywhere; you can't walk down a dark alley without a couple of them jumping out and accosting you with their dark and broody eyes. They do that a lot--mope and sulk. That's what got to me, all the melodrama. I mean, they are practically immortal, don't get sick, grow old, don't need to watch their weight or work out. What the hell do they have to bellyache about?
(That's the truth.)
And that's the point. In a sub-genre where melodrama rules and/or kinky vampire sex clubs are the forte, humor takes precedent here, brought forth by the vivacious and quirky Harvey (I love the name, and not just the Feng/Fang part, the fact that her vampire is named Harvey), who isn't really like any other of his kind. In actuality, I'd rather not go into characterization here, because I'd rather not cut him into pieces to analyze him. He's best enjoyed as it's written… plus, you'll find plenty in other reviews, I'm sure. The same goes for Gabe, who is perhaps the undervalued of the pair, though it's important that he's the lens we see the world through, and even more in which we see Harvey through. His understanding of and feelings for Harvey are how we understand him best, in reflection.
What was really refreshing about this book for me was also in a second part -- the style, which is reflected in pacing but also the plot. Both were atypical in that they don't follow the usual structure. Broken into three parts, each concentrates on a different aspect of the story while they, in succession, follow a continual arc. Some readers might find this off-putting. I'm not really sure. I quite enjoyed it. Because while the first is a typical setup to the story and introduces the relationship between Gabe and Harvey, the second and third both have a somewhat separate plot, though they're tied together. But you do get the feeling, between the transition between Parts 2 and 3, that there's a bit of a jog. And consequently, you'll find two climaxes (one at the end of each part) around the 55% mark and the end of the book.
Nikyta noticed this as well and made a remark to me about it (in our many back and forth book gabbing emails) and probably described it better than I did, asking if I had noticed authors using this style more lately, the (in her words) "multiple mini stories in one book of the same couple" style. We both automatically thought of Megan Derr, who sometimes writes in a similar though pretty different style from what I'm describing in Spirit Sanguine. Perhaps it's that Gabe and Harvey really only have two distinct adventures and Megan Derr often writes books that are split between the many adventures one couple has, a sort of extended vignette style. Nik thought that maybe it was a style that was becoming more popular. I'm not sure, but suffice to say that it is something that we've both enjoyed. And definitely something that I found made Lou Harper's book infinitely more original -- though, of course, anything with a vampire named Harvey Feng could hardly be called conventional.
Read the book. And please enjoy it!
August 26, 2016
3,5 stars
Entertaining, sweet and quite enjoyable.
I read Late Night Snack some months ago without realizing that it was a part of a series. I liked the writing of Lou Harper and the MCs and I wanted to read more about Gabe and Harvey.
My absolute favourite part in the book is the romance between a vegetarian vampire Harvey and a vampire slayer Gabe. I would have wished MORE of it. The chemistry between them was nicely intense and the sex scenes were pretty hot!
I got a bit bored reading the hunting bad vampires part.
I don't know if it is because I am not a big fan of this genre or because I compared it with my favourite mystery books.
Of course it is in the first place a paranormal romance and it was, for my taste, good written.
It is an easy and charming read, and has nothing to do with a heavy vampire stuff, and it is why I enjoyed it.
May 1, 2013
4.5 stars. Excellent paranormal mystery romance. This book is structured similarly to Megan Derr's Dance with the Devil in that the romance arc develops over the entire book but there are about 4 or 5 individual mysteries for Gabe and Harvey to solve as the novel progresses. I find this style works really well for me and also for the mystery romance genre in general.
Gabe is a misguided vampire slayer who has recently returned to the US from Hungary. He came into slaying late in life after the death of his parents and is fairly naive about vampires in general. Certainly he knows nothing about how they live in America. When he first feels vampire Harvey Feng in a bar in Chicago he tries to kill him, but his murderous impulses disappear with each thwarted attempt on Harvey's life. Eventually he starts to feel intrigued and attracted to the vampire and the unusual bond between them grows every day.
Harvey is really sweet and even cute. In fact both of the characters are more sweet than I'm used to seeing from this author. The mysteries are all really well crafted. Although in the final one I was looking for more of a climactic ending with more violence and the chance for Gabe to rescue Harvey. But it wasn't quite as bloodthirsty as I wanted. Still very good though and the guys make a great sleuthing team. I liked all the secondary characters, especially twink Dill and his two silver foxes, 'Deadman' Denton, and the enigmatic vampire boss of Chicago. I could read a lot more about these characters and I think fans of mystery romance and paranormal romance (and certainly any fans of Dance with the Devil) will really enjoy this book.
Gabe is a misguided vampire slayer who has recently returned to the US from Hungary. He came into slaying late in life after the death of his parents and is fairly naive about vampires in general. Certainly he knows nothing about how they live in America. When he first feels vampire Harvey Feng in a bar in Chicago he tries to kill him, but his murderous impulses disappear with each thwarted attempt on Harvey's life. Eventually he starts to feel intrigued and attracted to the vampire and the unusual bond between them grows every day.
Harvey is really sweet and even cute. In fact both of the characters are more sweet than I'm used to seeing from this author. The mysteries are all really well crafted. Although in the final one I was looking for more of a climactic ending with more violence and the chance for Gabe to rescue Harvey. But it wasn't quite as bloodthirsty as I wanted. Still very good though and the guys make a great sleuthing team. I liked all the secondary characters, especially twink Dill and his two silver foxes, 'Deadman' Denton, and the enigmatic vampire boss of Chicago. I could read a lot more about these characters and I think fans of mystery romance and paranormal romance (and certainly any fans of Dance with the Devil) will really enjoy this book.
May 5, 2013
3.75 stars rounded up
Consisted of three shorter stories, this title was as enjoyable as Lou Harper's latest, Dead in L.A., as I felt both had almost the similar tone and format. My feeling for the story is highly influenced by Harvey, the vegan terrorist who is also one of the most entertaining vampires I've read in awhile.
Although the story is told from Gabe's point of view (using 3rd person style) but Harvey's attitude appeals to me more. Harvey practically makes Gabe falls under his charm from the get go -- even if Gabe is a slayer who hunts and kills vampires for the last 5 years. He makes the banter with Gabe amusing -- because I think Gabe himself is a bit bland. Together though, they make a good couple -- as a vampire and ex-slayer who is involved in a relationship while also taking assignments to deliver (or kill) bad guys to this vampire Boss.
Unlike few reviewers, I must say that I love that last 1/3rd of the story more than the first 2/3rd. Maybe because in the last story, Gabe has loosen himself a little bit. He is willing to get involved in role playing. He is willing to go to Vamp Con using costumes.I have a great time reading Harvey going undercover as a girl. Besides, I love the Vegas setting -- having seen hundreds of episodes of CSI: Las Vegas :).
I also think the last case has more grit to it. It brings a more concrete threat to both Gabe and Harvey, as they try not to blow their cover to get Aleksi, the villain. And I love the twist regarding Ilario, Aleksi's second.
The secondary characters are also fun to read: Dill, the twink, with his two vampire Daddies, Denton (he will get his OWN story coming in June!), and Augustine, the Chicago vampire boss.
This is a series I would love to follow...
Consisted of three shorter stories, this title was as enjoyable as Lou Harper's latest, Dead in L.A., as I felt both had almost the similar tone and format. My feeling for the story is highly influenced by Harvey, the vegan terrorist who is also one of the most entertaining vampires I've read in awhile.
Although the story is told from Gabe's point of view (using 3rd person style) but Harvey's attitude appeals to me more. Harvey practically makes Gabe falls under his charm from the get go -- even if Gabe is a slayer who hunts and kills vampires for the last 5 years. He makes the banter with Gabe amusing -- because I think Gabe himself is a bit bland. Together though, they make a good couple -- as a vampire and ex-slayer who is involved in a relationship while also taking assignments to deliver (or kill) bad guys to this vampire Boss.
Unlike few reviewers, I must say that I love that last 1/3rd of the story more than the first 2/3rd. Maybe because in the last story, Gabe has loosen himself a little bit. He is willing to get involved in role playing. He is willing to go to Vamp Con using costumes.I have a great time reading Harvey going undercover as a girl. Besides, I love the Vegas setting -- having seen hundreds of episodes of CSI: Las Vegas :).
I also think the last case has more grit to it. It brings a more concrete threat to both Gabe and Harvey, as they try not to blow their cover to get Aleksi, the villain. And I love the twist regarding Ilario, Aleksi's second.
The secondary characters are also fun to read: Dill, the twink, with his two vampire Daddies, Denton (he will get his OWN story coming in June!), and Augustine, the Chicago vampire boss.
This is a series I would love to follow...
September 30, 2013
Not having read many books by Lou Harper I was sort of new to her writing style. I had read a couple of shorts by her which I'd found very enjoyable, but this was my first full-length novel and after finishing, it certainly won't be my last.
Spirit Sanguine was a real treat. I went off the boil with vampire books quite a while ago, the problem being that like a lot of tropes they'd been done to death, each one jumping on the others' bandwagon and every one sounding and reading like a carbon copy of its predecessor.
Not this one. It was a breath of fresh air and an absolute pleasure to read. Split into three separate short stories it introduces two brilliant characters - Gabe the slayer and Harvey the vamp - both completely different to the usual slayer/vamp combo that we're used to in general PNR books, including m/m and het ones.
So what's so different about this one? Well, for a start, it's funny. Harvey is great at the one liners and Gabe's somewhat deadpan character a great recipient for them, they bounce off each other superbly and I found myself sniggering and giggling all the way through. Just my type of sense of humour... I love snarkiness in a story and this is full of it!
The vampire sighed. " Don't be a grumpy pants. Let's say we agree you're a slayer."
"I should've disemboweled you last time," he muttered. " You're just saying that. Entrails make a big mess." Gabe felt the body under his hand shake, and he realised it was from laughter. " Don't make me laugh it hurts."
"And you just happened to have six very sharp wooden sticks on you. Or were you just happy to see me?"
Harvey's vamp is miles away from the snarly fangy, Grrr Arrrgh vamp behaviour that we generally know of, for one thing he's vegetarian ( yep! I said vegetarian * snort* ) but he's certainly no wimp, proving it quite a few times and Gabe finds things out about his past that makes him ponder all he's been taught about killing vamps and the vampire community as a whole, causing him to rethink his role as a slayer and as the stories progress so does the relationship between these two totally engaging characters. I loved them both but I must admit Harvey was an absolute star and stole the show with his witty banter but Gabe has his moments too!....... Please read rest of review at https://sidlove.wordpress.com/2013/05...
Spirit Sanguine was a real treat. I went off the boil with vampire books quite a while ago, the problem being that like a lot of tropes they'd been done to death, each one jumping on the others' bandwagon and every one sounding and reading like a carbon copy of its predecessor.
Not this one. It was a breath of fresh air and an absolute pleasure to read. Split into three separate short stories it introduces two brilliant characters - Gabe the slayer and Harvey the vamp - both completely different to the usual slayer/vamp combo that we're used to in general PNR books, including m/m and het ones.
So what's so different about this one? Well, for a start, it's funny. Harvey is great at the one liners and Gabe's somewhat deadpan character a great recipient for them, they bounce off each other superbly and I found myself sniggering and giggling all the way through. Just my type of sense of humour... I love snarkiness in a story and this is full of it!
The vampire sighed. " Don't be a grumpy pants. Let's say we agree you're a slayer."
"I should've disemboweled you last time," he muttered. " You're just saying that. Entrails make a big mess." Gabe felt the body under his hand shake, and he realised it was from laughter. " Don't make me laugh it hurts."
"And you just happened to have six very sharp wooden sticks on you. Or were you just happy to see me?"
Harvey's vamp is miles away from the snarly fangy, Grrr Arrrgh vamp behaviour that we generally know of, for one thing he's vegetarian ( yep! I said vegetarian * snort* ) but he's certainly no wimp, proving it quite a few times and Gabe finds things out about his past that makes him ponder all he's been taught about killing vamps and the vampire community as a whole, causing him to rethink his role as a slayer and as the stories progress so does the relationship between these two totally engaging characters. I loved them both but I must admit Harvey was an absolute star and stole the show with his witty banter but Gabe has his moments too!....... Please read rest of review at https://sidlove.wordpress.com/2013/05...
June 30, 2013
4.5 stars
This was a fun and entertaining read. This author has been moved to my auto-read list.
This was a fun and entertaining read. This author has been moved to my auto-read list.
June 11, 2014
Nice snarky spin on bloodsuckers. This writer has a really polished-effortless-easygoing style..with some great characterizations and dialogue-driven content.
May 4, 2013
3.5 stars
While I enjoyed the whole story, I think the best was the beginning half of the story. Harvey was just great, he was just an overall fun character and his interactions with Gabe were great. I did feel that something was missing from their relationship, but I just couldn't quite put my finger on it, but it didn't detract from the story too much. I can see a series coming from all of these characters and I would really enjoy reading more about all of them. All in all this was an enjoyable and fun read.
While I enjoyed the whole story, I think the best was the beginning half of the story. Harvey was just great, he was just an overall fun character and his interactions with Gabe were great. I did feel that something was missing from their relationship, but I just couldn't quite put my finger on it, but it didn't detract from the story too much. I can see a series coming from all of these characters and I would really enjoy reading more about all of them. All in all this was an enjoyable and fun read.
May 15, 2013
Totally enjoyable paranormal romantic fun. Love the mystery elements. Gabe really grows into his P.I role over the three stories. Harvey is just the best snarky bossy whiny bottom (who sometimes tops).
Really successful story telling.
Really successful story telling.
August 5, 2016
A free copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I generally shy away from vampire stories because I have so many great books waiting on my TBR list and the vampire sub-genre is not one of my favs, probably because the ones I have read seem awfully similar (and sometimes too over-the-top for me). However, I have enjoyed Lou Harper's writing style in the past and had read her free short (Late Night Snack) about Gabe and Harvey, not realizing at first that it was a follow-on. I was charmed by Harvey and Gabe. So, I was excited to read this vampire story.
And, boy, am I glad I did. It was unlike any vampire book I had read before. The tone of the story, set by the narrator Gabe, is one of dry humor and somewhat reluctant self awareness and I loved it. Gabe's conceptions and world view are challenged throughout the book, but he rolls with it and finds his life becoming much more fulfilling. This quote from his mother particularly stood out for me: "...strange was just something you haven't gotten used to yet." It applies to a lot of what happens in this book, and in real life.
And, then there was Harvey - the most un-vampire-like vampire I have ever "met." A vegetarian Buddhist, affectionate and full of life - willing to take risks for his beliefs and love (and sometimes for lust). I adored Harvey. Sanguine is a wonderful word for Harvey, meaning both "cheerfully optimistic" and "blood-red." It is fitting that the beverage he created is named that.
The book is broken into three sections - each like a short story - that build upon each other. I found the plot(s) to be fast paced, exciting and fun, including vampire junkies, "made- (vampire) men" and a Vegas convention. I enjoyed all the role playing Gabe and Harvey did; it provided a playful aspect to the book.
The secondary characters are unique and add to the fun, especially Harvey's enigmatic boss, drama-queen Dill, and the "dead man" Denton.
There are not a lot of traditionally "romantic" moments in Spirit Sanguine, but the emotional aspects are all that more touching. I especially liked the special connection between Harvey and Gabe that evolves throughout the book.
I saw somewhere that a sequel is forthcoming. I hope that is true! More Gabe and Harvey would be much appreciated.
I generally shy away from vampire stories because I have so many great books waiting on my TBR list and the vampire sub-genre is not one of my favs, probably because the ones I have read seem awfully similar (and sometimes too over-the-top for me). However, I have enjoyed Lou Harper's writing style in the past and had read her free short (Late Night Snack) about Gabe and Harvey, not realizing at first that it was a follow-on. I was charmed by Harvey and Gabe. So, I was excited to read this vampire story.
And, boy, am I glad I did. It was unlike any vampire book I had read before. The tone of the story, set by the narrator Gabe, is one of dry humor and somewhat reluctant self awareness and I loved it. Gabe's conceptions and world view are challenged throughout the book, but he rolls with it and finds his life becoming much more fulfilling. This quote from his mother particularly stood out for me: "...strange was just something you haven't gotten used to yet." It applies to a lot of what happens in this book, and in real life.
And, then there was Harvey - the most un-vampire-like vampire I have ever "met." A vegetarian Buddhist, affectionate and full of life - willing to take risks for his beliefs and love (and sometimes for lust). I adored Harvey. Sanguine is a wonderful word for Harvey, meaning both "cheerfully optimistic" and "blood-red." It is fitting that the beverage he created is named that.
The book is broken into three sections - each like a short story - that build upon each other. I found the plot(s) to be fast paced, exciting and fun, including vampire junkies, "made- (vampire) men" and a Vegas convention. I enjoyed all the role playing Gabe and Harvey did; it provided a playful aspect to the book.
The secondary characters are unique and add to the fun, especially Harvey's enigmatic boss, drama-queen Dill, and the "dead man" Denton.
There are not a lot of traditionally "romantic" moments in Spirit Sanguine, but the emotional aspects are all that more touching. I especially liked the special connection between Harvey and Gabe that evolves throughout the book.
I saw somewhere that a sequel is forthcoming. I hope that is true! More Gabe and Harvey would be much appreciated.
January 15, 2014
Spirit Sanguine has taken me completely by surprise. I definitely didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. That's not a slight at the author, either. It's just that I'm much more into contemporary romances these days, so vampire stories and paranormal romances haven't really appealed to me. It's been a long time since I read anything like this, or even considered it. But over the past few months I'd seen a whole bunch of great reviews for this book, so I just thought "what the hell, I'll give it a go." One of the best decisions I've made in a while, I can promise you that!
What I liked about this was... well, mostly everything. Seriously, it's difficult for me to pick faults out here. The story, the characters, the interactions between characters, the sex, the paranormal element, the setting, the action... everything was actually pretty damn awesome. From the very first page, I couldn't stop reading.
The MCs were interesting and I adored their interactions together. They were a cute couple and I loved their playful banter. They were also incredibly hot together, and Harvey's love of role-play was both sexy and adorable. Not only did I love the MCs, but I also really liked the secondary characters too. Ray, Stan and Dill were great - I'd love to learn more about those three - Jade was kind of awesome, and Augustine was certainly intriguing. Hell, even Gustav was pretty cool.
What was really great about this story was that there was a plot. I'm getting a little tired of stories that focus purely on sex and the inner thoughts of the MCs, without actually giving the reader any real plot to follow. While I still found sex scenes here, I also found much more than that. Spirit Sanguine had a plot, and a really interesting one at that. The story was entertaining and the plot kept me turning the page. I loved Gabe's various adventures and I loved how he and Harvey worked well together.
In the end, I was pretty sad to put the book down. I'd certainly like to read more about these characters. Hell, I'd read anything set in this particular paranormal setting. I'm really looking forward to checking out more titles by Lou Harper.
What I liked about this was... well, mostly everything. Seriously, it's difficult for me to pick faults out here. The story, the characters, the interactions between characters, the sex, the paranormal element, the setting, the action... everything was actually pretty damn awesome. From the very first page, I couldn't stop reading.
The MCs were interesting and I adored their interactions together. They were a cute couple and I loved their playful banter. They were also incredibly hot together, and Harvey's love of role-play was both sexy and adorable. Not only did I love the MCs, but I also really liked the secondary characters too. Ray, Stan and Dill were great - I'd love to learn more about those three - Jade was kind of awesome, and Augustine was certainly intriguing. Hell, even Gustav was pretty cool.
What was really great about this story was that there was a plot. I'm getting a little tired of stories that focus purely on sex and the inner thoughts of the MCs, without actually giving the reader any real plot to follow. While I still found sex scenes here, I also found much more than that. Spirit Sanguine had a plot, and a really interesting one at that. The story was entertaining and the plot kept me turning the page. I loved Gabe's various adventures and I loved how he and Harvey worked well together.
In the end, I was pretty sad to put the book down. I'd certainly like to read more about these characters. Hell, I'd read anything set in this particular paranormal setting. I'm really looking forward to checking out more titles by Lou Harper.
August 31, 2014
I loved this. Gay vampires will never get old but it is a talented author who can bring something new to such stories. Lou Harper has managed to do so with this book.
Gabe who is a vampire slayer, returns to the US from Europe only to find that vampire slaying isn't really the done thing in the US of A. In fact vamps in the US are not as murderous and wild as they are in Eastern Europe, and some of them are quite good looking and attractive. Gabe eventually finds himself attracted to Harvey who is one of the cool, good looking US vamps and their relationship begins.
The adventures start when Gabe teams up with Harvey to rescue a friend who has been kidnapped by a ruthless vamp. Gabe then gets a reputation for being a tough but wise vampire slaying badass and is offered employment by the local vampire Don and that is where the story really begins. Gabe and Harvey become a vamp/human dynamic mystery solving duo which leads them in and out of danger, dusting the bad vamp guys and sometimes disposing of evil humans as well.
It is funny, interesting and manages to combine lighthearted moments with serious situations. It is a fab story if you like vampires and a good romance if you like mm. I loved the humour and the way the story touched on the opposites attract theme. It also has a great cast of secondary characters, and hints and clues of stories yet untold. This story made my Saturday a fab one!
Favourite quote'“You have the fashion sense of a drunken marsupial. I’m surprised the fashion police haven’t taken your gay card away”
May 1, 2013
An easy enjoyable read. Low on angst with a slice of whodunit (although it was pretty straight forward) with a room for sequel.
Gabe, a vampire slayer, met an unusual (read: vegetarian and Buddhist) vampire, Harvey, and thus began a relationship that he wasn't quite looking for.
Their relationship dynamic reminded me of Last Stop and that wasn't a bad thing. Gabe was a rough and tumble type while Harvey, with slighter build, still manage to kick ass on his own right too.
If anything, I still take a grumble at the representation of Buddha mentioned in this book.
The Lord Buddha wasn't
But this
I would love to slap around the originator of this misconception...
Gabe, a vampire slayer, met an unusual (read: vegetarian and Buddhist) vampire, Harvey, and thus began a relationship that he wasn't quite looking for.
Their relationship dynamic reminded me of Last Stop and that wasn't a bad thing. Gabe was a rough and tumble type while Harvey, with slighter build, still manage to kick ass on his own right too.
If anything, I still take a grumble at the representation of Buddha mentioned in this book.
The Lord Buddha wasn't
But this
I would love to slap around the originator of this misconception...
May 2, 2013
I liked it.
January 11, 2020
4.25 Stars
I loved the separate vignettes; the writing was tight and the relationship development across all of them was positively devine.
ADORED the role-playing these guys got up to. There is never enough of that in the books I tend to read...although, I too mourned the loss of that costume as I wanted more of Harvey in MANTIES!
Also, if this is the book that finished in 10th place for the Rainbow Awards, paranormal category, I'm definitely going to need to check out the other ones for that year.
I loved the separate vignettes; the writing was tight and the relationship development across all of them was positively devine.
ADORED the role-playing these guys got up to. There is never enough of that in the books I tend to read...although, I too mourned the loss of that costume as I wanted more of Harvey in MANTIES!
Also, if this is the book that finished in 10th place for the Rainbow Awards, paranormal category, I'm definitely going to need to check out the other ones for that year.
July 20, 2016
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
A compilation of three shorter stories, Spirit Sanguine tells the fun, sexy story of how a vampire slayer meets and falls for a vegetarian Buddhist vampire. Yep, you read that right. Gabe becomes a P.I. of sorts for the master vampire of Chicago while Harvey works to perfect a blood replacement for vamps.
Despite Gabe's self-delusion in the face of his own developing feelings for Harvey flustering me (I vacillated between being amused and being unable to buy into it), I enjoyed the way their relationship is building. They flirt with a ferocity that is just plain fun to read. I am quite interested in learning more about the bond they are experiencing.
The secondary characters are intriguing themselves; I hope to learn more about Dead Man & Augustine and would love to see Hector again.
Some of the sex scenes were more gripping than others. Intensity vied with a light brush-by in about equal proportions. My particular favorite was when Harvey was topping for the first time. I also enjoyed that they had so much fun with their role playing.
Each story revolved around its own mystery. Not much to be said about them, as I don't want to give anything away. Their cloak & dagger prep work and exploits when they headed off to Vegas sped up my heart rate.
All three aspects of the stories held that great tongue-in-cheek feeling I really like. I look forward to more of their adventures!
A compilation of three shorter stories, Spirit Sanguine tells the fun, sexy story of how a vampire slayer meets and falls for a vegetarian Buddhist vampire. Yep, you read that right. Gabe becomes a P.I. of sorts for the master vampire of Chicago while Harvey works to perfect a blood replacement for vamps.
Despite Gabe's self-delusion in the face of his own developing feelings for Harvey flustering me (I vacillated between being amused and being unable to buy into it), I enjoyed the way their relationship is building. They flirt with a ferocity that is just plain fun to read. I am quite interested in learning more about the bond they are experiencing.
The secondary characters are intriguing themselves; I hope to learn more about Dead Man & Augustine and would love to see Hector again.
Some of the sex scenes were more gripping than others. Intensity vied with a light brush-by in about equal proportions. My particular favorite was when Harvey was topping for the first time. I also enjoyed that they had so much fun with their role playing.
Each story revolved around its own mystery. Not much to be said about them, as I don't want to give anything away. Their cloak & dagger prep work and exploits when they headed off to Vegas sped up my heart rate.
All three aspects of the stories held that great tongue-in-cheek feeling I really like. I look forward to more of their adventures!
August 12, 2016
I was given a free copy of this book for an honest review.
A kidnapping, a serial killer, and a junkie vamp what could be better!
Spirit Sanguine is more like three short stories in one book that follows the two MC, Gabe and Harvey. Their story/relationship is "cute" and a little campy. I guess I wanted a little more grit and suspense. Everything just kinda fell into place without a lot of buildup. It was an enjoyable read with some funny one-liners and I like the basic concept of the book; vampire slayer turned vamp-lover/vamp-detective.
Gabe is back in the US after spending the last five years slaying vampires all over Europe and has a chance encounter with Harvey in a bar. Harvey is a young vegetarian vampire who just lives his life. So the insta-love or insta-sex between the two kinda threw me at the beginning felt like there should have been a lot more tension between the two of them. I did like how each section of the book was kinda like the next phase in their relationship but again thought it moved a little quick, not just the relationship but the story itself. I just felt like the entire book had a lot more story to it that never made it to paper.
I can say this if there are more Gabe & Harvey adventures I would enjoy reading them because like I said they are cute and funny.
A kidnapping, a serial killer, and a junkie vamp what could be better!
Spirit Sanguine is more like three short stories in one book that follows the two MC, Gabe and Harvey. Their story/relationship is "cute" and a little campy. I guess I wanted a little more grit and suspense. Everything just kinda fell into place without a lot of buildup. It was an enjoyable read with some funny one-liners and I like the basic concept of the book; vampire slayer turned vamp-lover/vamp-detective.
Gabe is back in the US after spending the last five years slaying vampires all over Europe and has a chance encounter with Harvey in a bar. Harvey is a young vegetarian vampire who just lives his life. So the insta-love or insta-sex between the two kinda threw me at the beginning felt like there should have been a lot more tension between the two of them. I did like how each section of the book was kinda like the next phase in their relationship but again thought it moved a little quick, not just the relationship but the story itself. I just felt like the entire book had a lot more story to it that never made it to paper.
I can say this if there are more Gabe & Harvey adventures I would enjoy reading them because like I said they are cute and funny.
January 31, 2021
** 2.5 stars ** This one never quite worked for me; somehow Gabe and Harvey never came to life. Which I suppose is excusable in Harvey's case, but not so much in Gabe's. I did like the author's LA Paranormal series, so I hope this was just a fluke.
March 29, 2013
Oh god, I fell in love with a vampire.
I'm big (REALLY BIG) on shifter stories. Vampires are okay, but they're not my usual cup of tea.
But a vegetarian vampire? Oh yes, please!
I'm big (REALLY BIG) on shifter stories. Vampires are okay, but they're not my usual cup of tea.
But a vegetarian vampire? Oh yes, please!
November 3, 2014
Just as much fun the second time around!
dnf
November 10, 2017DNF 18%, 4 chapters
Too ridiculous. I just couldn't take any more.
Too ridiculous. I just couldn't take any more.
January 21, 2014
I received my copy of this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review through the "Don't Buy My Love" event hosted by the M/M Romance Group on Goodreads.
World building: This is a paranormal set in the current world where Vampires are not out to the general public. The story centers around characters who either are Vampires or humans in the know. There are some background pieces that could have been expanded better, but I'm hoping the next book will delve deeper into the Vampire secrets.
Main Characters: Gabe has spent the last 5 years in eastern Europe learning to slay Vampires with his Uncle. Now back in Chicago, he figures he'll keep slaying, protecting humans from the danger they know nothing about. But all of that changes when he goes after Harvey. Harvey is a vegetarian vampire, and has been trying to develop a serum so Vampires no longer need to feed on humans. I found there relationship feeling a little fast-tracked, but not insta-love.
Side/Secondary Characters: There are a fair number of secondary characters, some of who I would love to read more about. Stan and Ray are two Vampires that helped take care of Harvey after he was turned. They also have a human, Dill, who is involved with them romantically. They show-up during the book, but I would love to read a book focused on them. Augustine is the Vampire boss of Chicago . He is still a mystery for most of the book, only giving hints as to what he is really thinking. Denton Mills is not a Vampire, but certainly plays a key role for part of the book. He also has his own story, Dead Man and the Restless Spirits.
The book is broken into 3 short stories, so while it is a continuous story it is broken into smaller plots. For the first book in a series, it was well done. I like the characters, they have their quirks and the relationship does take a while to develop on an emotional level that makes it feel more believable (for a story about a Vampire and Slayer). For me there are too many questions left to be answered, but I'm very excited for the next book to see if they get answered.
There is a short story (FREE) available to tide you over until book 2 comes out June 2014. Check it out: Late Night Snack
World building: This is a paranormal set in the current world where Vampires are not out to the general public. The story centers around characters who either are Vampires or humans in the know. There are some background pieces that could have been expanded better, but I'm hoping the next book will delve deeper into the Vampire secrets.
Main Characters: Gabe has spent the last 5 years in eastern Europe learning to slay Vampires with his Uncle. Now back in Chicago, he figures he'll keep slaying, protecting humans from the danger they know nothing about. But all of that changes when he goes after Harvey. Harvey is a vegetarian vampire, and has been trying to develop a serum so Vampires no longer need to feed on humans. I found there relationship feeling a little fast-tracked, but not insta-love.
Side/Secondary Characters: There are a fair number of secondary characters, some of who I would love to read more about. Stan and Ray are two Vampires that helped take care of Harvey after he was turned. They also have a human, Dill, who is involved with them romantically. They show-up during the book, but I would love to read a book focused on them. Augustine is the Vampire boss of Chicago . He is still a mystery for most of the book, only giving hints as to what he is really thinking. Denton Mills is not a Vampire, but certainly plays a key role for part of the book. He also has his own story, Dead Man and the Restless Spirits.
The book is broken into 3 short stories, so while it is a continuous story it is broken into smaller plots. For the first book in a series, it was well done. I like the characters, they have their quirks and the relationship does take a while to develop on an emotional level that makes it feel more believable (for a story about a Vampire and Slayer). For me there are too many questions left to be answered, but I'm very excited for the next book to see if they get answered.
There is a short story (FREE) available to tide you over until book 2 comes out June 2014. Check it out: Late Night Snack
January 19, 2014
The author has provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In Spirit Sanguine we meet Gabe who's just returned to Chicago after a five-year stint in Europe hunting vampires with his uncle. Back in his hometown he soon runs into Harvey who is unlike any vampire he's ever met.
A tentative friendship and then an even more tentative relationship is formed as Gabe finds himself living with a Vampire, working for a Vampire mafia boss and discovering a thing or two about himself he didn't know.
The story is split into three parts but the parts are pretty well interconnected by the romantic story arc. I actually like that the crime stuff if split up into different parts because I have a tendency to get bored if it's just 300 pages if solving the same crime.
Now, it must be said at first that I am a Vampire purist and a Buffy-fan(atic). Vampire mythology has evolved over a couple of millenia and any story with vampires in it can change details but it must at least stay within the parameters of that mythology (Twilight is an excellent example of a story that violates all parts of Vampire mythology).
Spirit Sanguine manages to respect the traditional mythology while still reinventing the Vampires to keep it interesting. You could also see elements from a lot of recent Vampire stories: True Blood (the blood substitute), Buffy (the slayer and the dusting) etc.
But besides speaking to my Vampire-story-loving heart Spirit Sanguine was also just a really good story. The relationship between Harvey and Gabe was a bit rushed at first but it developed into a solid and rewarding interspecies romance. Of course the trouble with any Vampire-human romance is that it seems a little unresolved. We're dealing with a mortal and an immortal and is the human isn't changed their future is unsure. But at least Harper acknowledges this.
To me all the elements of the story worked but also I just really, genuinely liked Gabe and Harvey. They are a great couple and I would love to read more about these two.
In Spirit Sanguine we meet Gabe who's just returned to Chicago after a five-year stint in Europe hunting vampires with his uncle. Back in his hometown he soon runs into Harvey who is unlike any vampire he's ever met.
A tentative friendship and then an even more tentative relationship is formed as Gabe finds himself living with a Vampire, working for a Vampire mafia boss and discovering a thing or two about himself he didn't know.
The story is split into three parts but the parts are pretty well interconnected by the romantic story arc. I actually like that the crime stuff if split up into different parts because I have a tendency to get bored if it's just 300 pages if solving the same crime.
Now, it must be said at first that I am a Vampire purist and a Buffy-fan(atic). Vampire mythology has evolved over a couple of millenia and any story with vampires in it can change details but it must at least stay within the parameters of that mythology (Twilight is an excellent example of a story that violates all parts of Vampire mythology).
Spirit Sanguine manages to respect the traditional mythology while still reinventing the Vampires to keep it interesting. You could also see elements from a lot of recent Vampire stories: True Blood (the blood substitute), Buffy (the slayer and the dusting) etc.
But besides speaking to my Vampire-story-loving heart Spirit Sanguine was also just a really good story. The relationship between Harvey and Gabe was a bit rushed at first but it developed into a solid and rewarding interspecies romance. Of course the trouble with any Vampire-human romance is that it seems a little unresolved. We're dealing with a mortal and an immortal and is the human isn't changed their future is unsure. But at least Harper acknowledges this.
To me all the elements of the story worked but also I just really, genuinely liked Gabe and Harvey. They are a great couple and I would love to read more about these two.
May 4, 2013
I know I'm probably biased because Lou is a friend, but this book has been a real joy to critique for her. She creates some fantastic characters I couldn't help but fall in love with--particularly the exuberent vampire Harvey--and the dialogue sparkles wittily. What's more, there's some sizzling sex, and not just one but three mystery plots.
For fans of mysteries, you're getting a great deal here. Many authors would have released this as a series of three novellas, each priced at a few dollars, but here you get them all for a steal as Samhain's prices are excellent value. But it's not just about the money: I'm glad Lou chose to package the three together as the romantic arc spans all three books and makes a complete story.
I'm still hoping Lou will write more about Gabe and Harvey, and I know she has ideas for them and more to explore in their backstories. She has already written a story (or three!) for Denton Mills, who appears in Spirit Sanguine as a scene stealing side-character. Check out Dead Man and the Restless Spirits, out June 25th.
For fans of mysteries, you're getting a great deal here. Many authors would have released this as a series of three novellas, each priced at a few dollars, but here you get them all for a steal as Samhain's prices are excellent value. But it's not just about the money: I'm glad Lou chose to package the three together as the romantic arc spans all three books and makes a complete story.
I'm still hoping Lou will write more about Gabe and Harvey, and I know she has ideas for them and more to explore in their backstories. She has already written a story (or three!) for Denton Mills, who appears in Spirit Sanguine as a scene stealing side-character. Check out Dead Man and the Restless Spirits, out June 25th.
July 30, 2014
As always Lou Harper delivers. LOVE LOVE the witty characters - who are just fresh and unique. Even when the world is sort of generic it is her characters that shine brightly. Loved the fact it seemed to be multiple books in one - vignette's of the guys story. Love when Harvey dressed up as a woman - HOT! The mystery/detective stuff was really very good. Not a ton of angst, great MC's, interesting story that really felt complete. Winner! This is like a gay Buffy! Yay!
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