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Ante Up
Love is a high-stakes game.
A century and a half ago, Ante Novak died on a Croatian battlefield—and rose three days later as a vampire. Now he haunts Las Vegas, stealing blood and money from drunken gamblers and staying on the fringe of the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows. His existence feels empty and meaningless until he meets beautiful Peter Gehrardi, who can influence others with his thoughts.
An attraction flares instantly, bringing a semblance of life to Ante’s dead heart. But the Shadows want Peter too, and they’re willing to kill to get him. As Ante and Peter flee, they learn more about themselves and each other, and they discover that the world is a stranger place than either of them imagined. With enemies at their heels and old mistakes coming back to exact a price, how can Ante and Peter find sanctuary?
A century and a half ago, Ante Novak died on a Croatian battlefield—and rose three days later as a vampire. Now he haunts Las Vegas, stealing blood and money from drunken gamblers and staying on the fringe of the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows. His existence feels empty and meaningless until he meets beautiful Peter Gehrardi, who can influence others with his thoughts.
An attraction flares instantly, bringing a semblance of life to Ante’s dead heart. But the Shadows want Peter too, and they’re willing to kill to get him. As Ante and Peter flee, they learn more about themselves and each other, and they discover that the world is a stranger place than either of them imagined. With enemies at their heels and old mistakes coming back to exact a price, how can Ante and Peter find sanctuary?
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2017
8 people are currently reading
169 people want to read
About the author
Kim Fielding
175 books1,304 followersKim Fielding lives in Oregon and travels as often as she can manage. A professor by day, at night she rushes into a phone booth to change into her author costume (which involves comfy clothes instead of Spandex and is, sadly, lacking a cape). Her superpowers include the ability to write nearly anywhere, often while simultaneously doling out assistance to her family. Her favorite word to describe herself is "eclectic" and she finally got that seventh tattoo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
October 25, 2017
Even though I typically avoid Dreamspinner's Dreamspun line (I'm not a fan of the Harlequin trope), I like paranormal and I LOVE Kim Fielding, so I gave Ante Up a try.
Truth be told, I was hoping for something grittier. The book features a vampire after all.
But Dreamspun has a certain formula, and dark, sexy books aren't a part of it.
Ante Up is not heavy on the angst. There's some danger and action toward the end of the book; it's the typical good vs. evil trope.
But for the most part, this story focuses on the relationship between a lonely vampire (Ante, originally from Croatia; born in 1840) and a . . . well, that might be a spoiler; let's just say Peter isn't quite human. Peter is charming and beautiful, and people do as he says.
Peter's ability to influence others can be a powerful weapon if used with evil intent. Ante is tasked with bringing Peter to a coven of vampires who rule Las Vegas, a place that suits Ante just fine (cheap hotel rooms with a sink to wash Ante's one set of clothes, easy access to "snacks" and cash, and windows designed to keep out the light).
I didn't really feel strong chemistry between Ante and Peter. Peter is kind of a smartass, and Ante speaks like a grammar textbook, even during sexual encounters.
It's pretty much insta love for the MCs, but I'm okay with that, particularly in books with a paranormal theme. I mean, if you're 177 years old, you've been around the block a few times.
The ending was slightly disappointing; it's a HEA, but with a loophole.
I still enjoyed the story, though. It really picked up a third of the way in, and I was engaged with the plot and characters.
Truth be told, I was hoping for something grittier. The book features a vampire after all.
But Dreamspun has a certain formula, and dark, sexy books aren't a part of it.
Ante Up is not heavy on the angst. There's some danger and action toward the end of the book; it's the typical good vs. evil trope.
But for the most part, this story focuses on the relationship between a lonely vampire (Ante, originally from Croatia; born in 1840) and a . . . well, that might be a spoiler; let's just say Peter isn't quite human. Peter is charming and beautiful, and people do as he says.
Peter's ability to influence others can be a powerful weapon if used with evil intent. Ante is tasked with bringing Peter to a coven of vampires who rule Las Vegas, a place that suits Ante just fine (cheap hotel rooms with a sink to wash Ante's one set of clothes, easy access to "snacks" and cash, and windows designed to keep out the light).
I didn't really feel strong chemistry between Ante and Peter. Peter is kind of a smartass, and Ante speaks like a grammar textbook, even during sexual encounters.
It's pretty much insta love for the MCs, but I'm okay with that, particularly in books with a paranormal theme. I mean, if you're 177 years old, you've been around the block a few times.
The ending was slightly disappointing; it's a HEA, but with a loophole.
I still enjoyed the story, though. It really picked up a third of the way in, and I was engaged with the plot and characters.
October 24, 2017
A fun, easy paranormal book from Kim Fielding in the Dreamspun Beyond line from Dreamspinner Press.
I'm not crazy about the Dreamspun line, to be honest, as the more Harlequin-style books don't quite work for me. However, I am crazy about Kim Fielding, so I figured I'd give this a shot.
Ante Up was a fast-paced, light-ish story. Sometimes, paranormal stories are really heavy or super angsty, but this was surprisingly light, especially from this author. I liked that this wasn't a depressing read, and it was fun to read something that kept me on my toes with lots of action.
Chemistry-wise, I was a bit meh. I think part of my issue was that Ante talks without contractions. I get why authors do that (yeah, we get that he is old, from a time that was more formal, and English isn't his first language), but it is really awkward to read. I always hate when characters talk without contractions because it sounds so stiff, so I think that hurt the connection between the two MCs, at least in my eyes.
It is also a little insta-lovey, which is sort of more or less expected due to the fact that it is part of the Dreamspun line. That fast race to feelings isn't really my thing, but I found that the two MCs fit well together, even if I wasn't totally on board with the emotions.
Overall, I was won over because the story was just plain fun. It won't be my favorite vampire story, but I would 100% read another book set in this paranormal world. I think there is a lot of potential there.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
I'm not crazy about the Dreamspun line, to be honest, as the more Harlequin-style books don't quite work for me. However, I am crazy about Kim Fielding, so I figured I'd give this a shot.
Ante Up was a fast-paced, light-ish story. Sometimes, paranormal stories are really heavy or super angsty, but this was surprisingly light, especially from this author. I liked that this wasn't a depressing read, and it was fun to read something that kept me on my toes with lots of action.
Chemistry-wise, I was a bit meh. I think part of my issue was that Ante talks without contractions. I get why authors do that (yeah, we get that he is old, from a time that was more formal, and English isn't his first language), but it is really awkward to read. I always hate when characters talk without contractions because it sounds so stiff, so I think that hurt the connection between the two MCs, at least in my eyes.
It is also a little insta-lovey, which is sort of more or less expected due to the fact that it is part of the Dreamspun line. That fast race to feelings isn't really my thing, but I found that the two MCs fit well together, even if I wasn't totally on board with the emotions.
Overall, I was won over because the story was just plain fun. It won't be my favorite vampire story, but I would 100% read another book set in this paranormal world. I think there is a lot of potential there.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
January 2, 2020
4 Hearts
I’ll be the first to admit that vampires rarely do it for me these days. Also, I’m not a Kim Fielding expert, so I had very little expectation when I started this. Well, it's always a wonderful thing when something comes out of nowhere and surprises, because this was an absolute delight.
Ante is basically a loner vampire. He’s content with the small simple pleasures and surviving really, on just the bare necessities as he ekes out his existence using Las Vegas’s touristy partying population to his advantage. Preying on those mostly looking for a good time or on those few who won't remember a bad time, he takes blood, money, or both, but never doing any irreparable harm. One day, Ante spies an intriguing young fellow who seems to have an unbelievable amount of charm in getting his way, and Ante cannot get him off his mind. When he ultimately confronts Peter, Ante immediately knows that Peter is no mere human. Unfortunately, Peter’s specialness has also caught the eye of the Shadows, the sinister vampire organization that rules the paranormal underground, and they want Ante to bring Peter to them.
What ensues is kinda a cat and mouse game that culminates into one big standoff. However, for me, what this excels at is the characterization of Ante. Steady with a good dose of morality but never forgetting or forgiving his past sins, he wants to be better and do better, just for a chance at happiness with Peter. So basically, Ante finally gets a light lit under his ass to change the mundanity of what his life has been like for over the last 100 years. All too quickly the fight becomes real, as both he and Peter battle for the right to exist and live freely.
Andrew McFerrin narrates the audio, and I continue to really enjoy his renditions. He brings a sturdy stalwart, no nonsense vibe to Ante, but also makes him really likeable for his gentle practicality (except when Peter’s in danger). This just happens to juxtapose quite nicely with Peter’s boyish enthusiastic charm. Throw in great voice distinction amongst the many characters, and I was one happy listener.
So overall, this wasn’t big on flash and bang. At times sedate, at others, the pace picked up with bursts of suspense and tense action, all interspersed with some sweet tender funny, as well as some good sexy times that are always always appreciated. To me, Fielding created two MC’s that I wholeheartedly wanted to root for, and successfully melded together my love of romance, paranormal, and suspense into one highly enjoyable story!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
I’ll be the first to admit that vampires rarely do it for me these days. Also, I’m not a Kim Fielding expert, so I had very little expectation when I started this. Well, it's always a wonderful thing when something comes out of nowhere and surprises, because this was an absolute delight.
Ante is basically a loner vampire. He’s content with the small simple pleasures and surviving really, on just the bare necessities as he ekes out his existence using Las Vegas’s touristy partying population to his advantage. Preying on those mostly looking for a good time or on those few who won't remember a bad time, he takes blood, money, or both, but never doing any irreparable harm. One day, Ante spies an intriguing young fellow who seems to have an unbelievable amount of charm in getting his way, and Ante cannot get him off his mind. When he ultimately confronts Peter, Ante immediately knows that Peter is no mere human. Unfortunately, Peter’s specialness has also caught the eye of the Shadows, the sinister vampire organization that rules the paranormal underground, and they want Ante to bring Peter to them.
What ensues is kinda a cat and mouse game that culminates into one big standoff. However, for me, what this excels at is the characterization of Ante. Steady with a good dose of morality but never forgetting or forgiving his past sins, he wants to be better and do better, just for a chance at happiness with Peter. So basically, Ante finally gets a light lit under his ass to change the mundanity of what his life has been like for over the last 100 years. All too quickly the fight becomes real, as both he and Peter battle for the right to exist and live freely.
Andrew McFerrin narrates the audio, and I continue to really enjoy his renditions. He brings a sturdy stalwart, no nonsense vibe to Ante, but also makes him really likeable for his gentle practicality (except when Peter’s in danger). This just happens to juxtapose quite nicely with Peter’s boyish enthusiastic charm. Throw in great voice distinction amongst the many characters, and I was one happy listener.
So overall, this wasn’t big on flash and bang. At times sedate, at others, the pace picked up with bursts of suspense and tense action, all interspersed with some sweet tender funny, as well as some good sexy times that are always always appreciated. To me, Fielding created two MC’s that I wholeheartedly wanted to root for, and successfully melded together my love of romance, paranormal, and suspense into one highly enjoyable story!
Thank you to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
July 29, 2018
4 Stars
Vampire Ante Novak spends his immortal life wandering the casinos of Las Vegas. Ante barely scraps by; often attaining just enough blood and money from the willing men he seduces and often steals from. He keeps to himself mostly, trying his best to stay off the radar of the larger local vampire population known as the Shadows, who have a powerful influence even beyond the city limits of Vegas.
One night, while cruising in one of his local haunts, Ante spies a gorgeous young man who seems to have an unnerving talent for persuasion. Ante becomes quite captivated and intrigued, and eventually introduces himself to the man whose name is Peter. After the two mutually attracted souls engage in a brief, but smoking hot tryst, Ante discovers that Peter is not the mere human he appears to be, and Peter discovers Ante’s true vampire nature, both to Peter’s shock and fascination.
Unfortunately, the Shadows have also been made aware of Peter’s presence in the city and want to use him and his talents for their own questionable gains.
For the first time in his long life, Ante feels strongly about another person and finds himself desperate to help Peter in any way he can, even at the cost of his own safety. So the two men go on the run, leaving Vegas in their rear-view mirrors and seeking out a rumoured sanctuary where they can be safe and protected from the Shadows and their dangerous and seemingly limitless reach.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. The Las Vegas location set the right mood and tone for this vamp-alicious supernatural romp. I had one of those light-bulb moments where I thought to myself, “If vampires were real, of course Vegas would be where they’d thrive!” A city that is just as alive and buzzing with activity at night as it is during the day would be the perfect place for a vampire to live in this day and age. Plus, they would surely find easy human meals in amongst all the debauchery and decadent behaviour that humans often drunkenly engage in in such a place.
I appreciated that Fielding used the kind of old-school vampire lore that I like best – where vampires can’t go into direct sunlight, where wooden stakes turn those suckers to dust, and where drinking human blood is always preferred to drinking animal blood. It was all very Buffy the Vampire Slayer and I enjoyed that immensely.
I also enjoyed the array of supernatural beings that made appearances throughout this one, too, from vampires, to elves, to interludes with ghosts, demons, fairies, werewolves, and Bigfoots, to name but a few. I especially liked that the supernatural world was still quite new and confounding to even century’s old vampire Ante – it wasn’t just Peter discovering the wonders of the supernatural world through their adventures, but Ante too, which I found very cool.
I especially loved the on-the-run/road trip type feel it had going on in the second half. It was exciting and adventurous, culminating in a rousing final confrontation that set my nerves on edge and got my blood pumping. But, never fear, Ante and Peter win the day and get their well-deserved HEA, as is only right!
Vampire Ante Novak spends his immortal life wandering the casinos of Las Vegas. Ante barely scraps by; often attaining just enough blood and money from the willing men he seduces and often steals from. He keeps to himself mostly, trying his best to stay off the radar of the larger local vampire population known as the Shadows, who have a powerful influence even beyond the city limits of Vegas.
One night, while cruising in one of his local haunts, Ante spies a gorgeous young man who seems to have an unnerving talent for persuasion. Ante becomes quite captivated and intrigued, and eventually introduces himself to the man whose name is Peter. After the two mutually attracted souls engage in a brief, but smoking hot tryst, Ante discovers that Peter is not the mere human he appears to be, and Peter discovers Ante’s true vampire nature, both to Peter’s shock and fascination.
Unfortunately, the Shadows have also been made aware of Peter’s presence in the city and want to use him and his talents for their own questionable gains.
For the first time in his long life, Ante feels strongly about another person and finds himself desperate to help Peter in any way he can, even at the cost of his own safety. So the two men go on the run, leaving Vegas in their rear-view mirrors and seeking out a rumoured sanctuary where they can be safe and protected from the Shadows and their dangerous and seemingly limitless reach.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. The Las Vegas location set the right mood and tone for this vamp-alicious supernatural romp. I had one of those light-bulb moments where I thought to myself, “If vampires were real, of course Vegas would be where they’d thrive!” A city that is just as alive and buzzing with activity at night as it is during the day would be the perfect place for a vampire to live in this day and age. Plus, they would surely find easy human meals in amongst all the debauchery and decadent behaviour that humans often drunkenly engage in in such a place.
I appreciated that Fielding used the kind of old-school vampire lore that I like best – where vampires can’t go into direct sunlight, where wooden stakes turn those suckers to dust, and where drinking human blood is always preferred to drinking animal blood. It was all very Buffy the Vampire Slayer and I enjoyed that immensely.
I also enjoyed the array of supernatural beings that made appearances throughout this one, too, from vampires, to elves, to interludes with ghosts, demons, fairies, werewolves, and Bigfoots, to name but a few. I especially liked that the supernatural world was still quite new and confounding to even century’s old vampire Ante – it wasn’t just Peter discovering the wonders of the supernatural world through their adventures, but Ante too, which I found very cool.
I especially loved the on-the-run/road trip type feel it had going on in the second half. It was exciting and adventurous, culminating in a rousing final confrontation that set my nerves on edge and got my blood pumping. But, never fear, Ante and Peter win the day and get their well-deserved HEA, as is only right!
Read
October 2, 2017Oh my, this book was such fun to write! We've got Ante, a somewhat broody Croatian vampire, and Peter, who's snarky and charming and not entirely human. There are the gangster vampires who are after them both. A cast of supporting characters including a demon and her teeny hounds of hell, ghosts in the desert, and many other surprises. And a story with excitement, humor, and of course romance. As vampire tales go, this one's on the lighter side, but I promise no sparkles. I hope Ante's story delights you.
November 16, 2017
Tag Team Review with Sara
This is my first paranormal cracky fluff. Unexpected is the best word I have to describe it. I found it more serious than what I've come to expect from the Dreamspun line. While it does have a sweetness about it I wouldn't categorize it as fluffy.
Ante is a Croatian vampire grifter living in Las Vegas. Despite there being a network of vamps-The Shadows-that are quite wealthy and influential he's declined their repeated offers of employment. Eschewing the glitz and glamour he lives in the shadows, placing no importance on the material, but he's lonely. His ennui is palpable, so much so that he seems to be flirting with suicide.
Peter is his opposite personality-wise; he too has some grifter tendencies. He's full of life, vivacious and LOVES to eat! A lot. Especially sweets. But he too is alone after having lost his mother and never knowing his father.
The sparks fly when they meet. Each can sense there's is something different about the other that they cannot define. However it's external forces that bring them together, ramp up the pacing in the last 30ish% and spur them to join forces in an effort to save one another.
See the rest on the blog then later here.
An ARC was provided.
This is my first paranormal cracky fluff. Unexpected is the best word I have to describe it. I found it more serious than what I've come to expect from the Dreamspun line. While it does have a sweetness about it I wouldn't categorize it as fluffy.
Ante is a Croatian vampire grifter living in Las Vegas. Despite there being a network of vamps-The Shadows-that are quite wealthy and influential he's declined their repeated offers of employment. Eschewing the glitz and glamour he lives in the shadows, placing no importance on the material, but he's lonely. His ennui is palpable, so much so that he seems to be flirting with suicide.
Peter is his opposite personality-wise; he too has some grifter tendencies. He's full of life, vivacious and LOVES to eat! A lot. Especially sweets. But he too is alone after having lost his mother and never knowing his father.
The sparks fly when they meet. Each can sense there's is something different about the other that they cannot define. However it's external forces that bring them together, ramp up the pacing in the last 30ish% and spur them to join forces in an effort to save one another.
See the rest on the blog then later here.
An ARC was provided.
October 25, 2017
A really sweet and fluffy paranormal story about Ante and Peter. The bones of the story are fine, Kim Fielding is a good writer, but nothing really happened in this story. The Shadows, headed up by vampires in Vegas, want Peter, who Ante has formed a connection with, so together they get out of dodge.
Ante is over a century old and finds himself missing his family and town in Croatia. He's feeling the loneliness of a long life. Peter has been a rolling stone and used some abilities to get by after his mother died when he was a teenager. He's also been alone for a while. Could they be each other's new family?
There are a few interesting supernatural beings/people on their journey and things build to a head for both men, though no one is particularly sinister, even the Shadows.
Not a lot of action. No real world building, but I didn't expect it. There's a lack of chemistry between Ante and Peter, no matter how nice they were as MCs, so there is little heat. I just kicked back on this one, put my feet up, and enjoyed a different paranormal story than I tend to read.
Nice, easy and relaxing reading for a night in, a day off work, or for a sweet pick-me-up.
Ante is over a century old and finds himself missing his family and town in Croatia. He's feeling the loneliness of a long life. Peter has been a rolling stone and used some abilities to get by after his mother died when he was a teenager. He's also been alone for a while. Could they be each other's new family?
There are a few interesting supernatural beings/people on their journey and things build to a head for both men, though no one is particularly sinister, even the Shadows.
Not a lot of action. No real world building, but I didn't expect it. There's a lack of chemistry between Ante and Peter, no matter how nice they were as MCs, so there is little heat. I just kicked back on this one, put my feet up, and enjoyed a different paranormal story than I tend to read.
Nice, easy and relaxing reading for a night in, a day off work, or for a sweet pick-me-up.
Read
November 19, 2017 3.5 Hearts
Tag Team Review with Cupcake!
I liked this addition to the Dreamspun Beyond line though I am still trying to find the balance in these stories of the fluff and fantasy.
Told from the POV of Ante Novak, a century plus old vampire, we begin our story in Las Vegas as we learn how Ante survives. He preys upon patrons of casinos that are usually drunk and takes them to bed, feeds off them and steals from them. It’s a meager existence but one he’s okay with as long as he has a single change of clothes, a book to read and doesn’t fry in the sun.
The secret Vampire Society called The Shadows is always around to offer Ante a job or two for pay even though he won’t join their mafia preferring to stay solo. But… one night when out on the prowl, Ante notices a handsome man who seems to have a sort of control over others with a few whispers. The man and his talents are intriguing to Ante who doesn’t see much out of the ordinary from his vamping ways and he decides to find out who he is.
Peter Gehrardi is a sort of con man extraordinaire who has no home, no family and is happy to gently persuade others to do what he wants or needs them to do. When Peter meets Ante, he’s attracted and one night together opens Peter’s eyes and mind to a world he never knew existed. This world and this new attraction to Ante is soon tossed upside down when The Shadows learn of a man who isn’t quite human and who has talents they want for their own.
Ante and his literal cold dead heart haven’t had a reason to live beyond the everyday survival for tens of decades and yet when The Shadows want to use Peter, Ante finds a reason to fight, a reason to flee and a reason to believe in a future.
I liked the story of Ante, his backstory of how he became a vampire and his tie to Lee. Ante’s existence is solitary and sad and I was happy he found more in Peter than a good fuck and suck. His need to protect Peter at all costs and remembers that blood seeks blood, the duo find out there is more to the underworld of the unnatural than either of them knew existed.
The idea of the ghosts was great. I loved the idea of them and then we got to meet Patricia Long whose thoughts on Bakersfield and hell are spot on and all she teaches the couple beyond roman orgy baths. I really liked the authors take on the beyond in the line and had the biggest grin on my face when Ante and Peter arrive in California.
The romance between Peter and Ante was subtle but romantic. Ante’s cold heart can still skip a beat when it finds the right one to be undeadly romantic for and Peter is amazing in how he cares for his vampire boyfriend. The Buffy references were a pure treat and the battle that occurs brought a touch of the dramatic violence to the story exactly where it was needed.
That epilogue though? That was pure fluff and made my heart happy. I wonder if the author has plans to write more in this universe because I would be up to read more in it.
Ante Up truly a romance where both Ante and Peter increase their risk and raise the stakes of the deadly game The Shadows want them to play. It’s a story where excepting one fully can give you more than a few nights of fun, it can give you everything you wanted complete with wine and strawberry jam.
Tag Team Review with Cupcake!
I liked this addition to the Dreamspun Beyond line though I am still trying to find the balance in these stories of the fluff and fantasy.
Told from the POV of Ante Novak, a century plus old vampire, we begin our story in Las Vegas as we learn how Ante survives. He preys upon patrons of casinos that are usually drunk and takes them to bed, feeds off them and steals from them. It’s a meager existence but one he’s okay with as long as he has a single change of clothes, a book to read and doesn’t fry in the sun.
He’d never met a vampire who didn’t loathe Bram Stoker. In fact, the only author more universally detested by his kind was Stephenie Meyer. Fucking sparkles.
The secret Vampire Society called The Shadows is always around to offer Ante a job or two for pay even though he won’t join their mafia preferring to stay solo. But… one night when out on the prowl, Ante notices a handsome man who seems to have a sort of control over others with a few whispers. The man and his talents are intriguing to Ante who doesn’t see much out of the ordinary from his vamping ways and he decides to find out who he is.
Peter Gehrardi is a sort of con man extraordinaire who has no home, no family and is happy to gently persuade others to do what he wants or needs them to do. When Peter meets Ante, he’s attracted and one night together opens Peter’s eyes and mind to a world he never knew existed. This world and this new attraction to Ante is soon tossed upside down when The Shadows learn of a man who isn’t quite human and who has talents they want for their own.
Ante and his literal cold dead heart haven’t had a reason to live beyond the everyday survival for tens of decades and yet when The Shadows want to use Peter, Ante finds a reason to fight, a reason to flee and a reason to believe in a future.
“You’re really not going to drag me to the Shadows?”
“No. I will do my best to protect you from them. That is why I came here.”
“Protect me. And risk your own life?”
“Unlife,”
“But—why? We just met. Why would you give a shit about me?”
“Because, Peter, after a century and a half, perhaps it is time I gave a shit about something.”
I liked the story of Ante, his backstory of how he became a vampire and his tie to Lee. Ante’s existence is solitary and sad and I was happy he found more in Peter than a good fuck and suck. His need to protect Peter at all costs and remembers that blood seeks blood, the duo find out there is more to the underworld of the unnatural than either of them knew existed.
The idea of the ghosts was great. I loved the idea of them and then we got to meet Patricia Long whose thoughts on Bakersfield and hell are spot on and all she teaches the couple beyond roman orgy baths. I really liked the authors take on the beyond in the line and had the biggest grin on my face when Ante and Peter arrive in California.
The romance between Peter and Ante was subtle but romantic. Ante’s cold heart can still skip a beat when it finds the right one to be undeadly romantic for and Peter is amazing in how he cares for his vampire boyfriend. The Buffy references were a pure treat and the battle that occurs brought a touch of the dramatic violence to the story exactly where it was needed.
That epilogue though? That was pure fluff and made my heart happy. I wonder if the author has plans to write more in this universe because I would be up to read more in it.
Ante Up truly a romance where both Ante and Peter increase their risk and raise the stakes of the deadly game The Shadows want them to play. It’s a story where excepting one fully can give you more than a few nights of fun, it can give you everything you wanted complete with wine and strawberry jam.
January 28, 2018
Ante Novak is an over 200 year old vampire who basically owns the clothes on his back, a book, and a few hundred dollars. He spends his nights stealing blood and money from drunken gamblers and avoiding the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows, able to refuse joining them by occasionally being hired to complete odd jobs for them.
One night Ante meets a beautiful and intriguing man, Peter Gehrardi, who is able to influence other humans with his thoughts. They share a memorable night together and go their separate ways.
Unfortunately, Peter draws attention to himself - and the Shadows recognize what he is, which isn't entirely human, and are determined to have him join their ranks so they can use him to influence the humans around them to do the Shadows' bidding. The Shadows hire Ante to find Peter, but Ante, who has never wanted to be under the organization's thumb, instead runs with Peter.
I really enjoy Kim Fielding's writing, the world-building, her characters, and the story arc. The narration was an absolute pleasure to listen to. I thought Andrew McFerrin did a wonderful job, I loved his accent for Ante, and his unique character voices made it easy to follow along with the action. He has good pacing and timing, and a way of drawing in the listener.
I loved the HEA ending, and I think there might even be an opportunity to spin this off into a series, and I hope Fielding revisits these characters.
Audio copy of Ante Up provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
November 18, 2017
Vampires almost always entertain me and though I’ve met my fair share, Ante set himself high above the others. I found him quite…intriguing. I believe the tipping factor for this story lies with Ante. He reminds me of molasses; slow, sticky, savory and unique. And there’s not a lot of middle ground, either you like him…or you don’t. He’s old-fashioned and refined. Existing for as long as he has, he’s bound to have some skeletons in his closet. He’s made some mistakes and carries a heavy load of regret. As a vampire, he survives off human blood. Living in the dark shadows of Sin City, he has been able to scrape (suck) by but just barely. One evening he encounters a mesmerizing young man. Then he allows himself a taste and shockingly discovers Peter is….different. He’s also addicting and Ante soon realizes one night of unforgettable passion and satisfaction is not enough. He wants him…with a longing, he’s unaccustomed to. In a blink of an eye, he finds himself hunting Peter. But what happens when you want to protect your prey?
What's to like: As I mentioned earlier, this is a slow…stalking. Peter is special and possesses certain qualities that add to his allure. Ante has never encountered anyone like him before. Peter is like his own personal energy drink but he also seeps deep into Ante and eases a hunger that has gnawed at him for ages. Peter awakens something in Ante, something that he believed died long ago. The ‘Shadows’ are the modern age mafia controlling Las Vegas. Ante is not under their thumb for one reason but he’s anything but free. When demands are made he must deliver. They have called upon him to capture Peter. And for all the reasons he should turn Peter over to the ‘Shadows’ he just can’t. However, no one denies the boss. Or is it…the right person has never challenged him?
What's to love: Quite frankly, I loved the writing. I enjoyed the characters and their impossible situation but it was the writing that lured me in. The paranormal aspect does not stop with bloodsuckers. The first two-thirds keep a slow but steady pace. However, once you hit the last third, the adrenaline is pumping and the action is packing. I was hopeful. I was nervous. I was pleasantly surprised. And the ending was sticky sweet!
Beware of: Ante is not a frivolous being and neither is his story. Peter has his own sober story. But together they…are magical. The danger is great but so are the rewards. Plan on a power-packed finale that will leave you with a happy heart.
This book is for: PNR fans looking for something…different. And of course, Fielding fans will surely enjoy this game of chance and love.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: As I mentioned earlier, this is a slow…stalking. Peter is special and possesses certain qualities that add to his allure. Ante has never encountered anyone like him before. Peter is like his own personal energy drink but he also seeps deep into Ante and eases a hunger that has gnawed at him for ages. Peter awakens something in Ante, something that he believed died long ago. The ‘Shadows’ are the modern age mafia controlling Las Vegas. Ante is not under their thumb for one reason but he’s anything but free. When demands are made he must deliver. They have called upon him to capture Peter. And for all the reasons he should turn Peter over to the ‘Shadows’ he just can’t. However, no one denies the boss. Or is it…the right person has never challenged him?
What's to love: Quite frankly, I loved the writing. I enjoyed the characters and their impossible situation but it was the writing that lured me in. The paranormal aspect does not stop with bloodsuckers. The first two-thirds keep a slow but steady pace. However, once you hit the last third, the adrenaline is pumping and the action is packing. I was hopeful. I was nervous. I was pleasantly surprised. And the ending was sticky sweet!
Beware of: Ante is not a frivolous being and neither is his story. Peter has his own sober story. But together they…are magical. The danger is great but so are the rewards. Plan on a power-packed finale that will leave you with a happy heart.
This book is for: PNR fans looking for something…different. And of course, Fielding fans will surely enjoy this game of chance and love.
Book UNfunk
March 12, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
I have mixed feelings on this story. First, it’s a good vampire story. Second, it’s a creative paranormal story. I liked Ante and I was easily able to believe he was both an ancient vampire and a powerful one. But there were some pacing issues and a few plot issues, and then there’s Peter.
First, the good. By which I mean Ante. Ante is the narrator of this story and we see the events unfold through his point of view. He’s reserved, stand-offish, and highly moral with a dry sense of humor and a large dash of fatalism; he’s very much a “go with the flow” kind of vampire. When meeting a demoness and her hellhounds, he’s interested but not scared. When meeting a werewolf or a djinn, he’s just as indifferent to their existence. It’s not that he doesn’t care, it’s just that Peter and Peter’s life are more important to him. Making use of a demonesses power is what he cares about, not her life story. While it makes for a less developed world book-wise, it makes for a more believable narrative story-wise. Ante doesn’t care that I want to know why a djinn lives in California. He wants to know if she’ll help him protect Peter from the vampires.
Ante has been for much, if not all, of his life in Las Vegas firm in renouncing any and all ties. Lee, the boy he turned because he was lonely, was his first and perhaps only progeny, but Ante has cast him aside. Dorothy, who keeps inviting him to join the Shadows and offers a bit of friendship in her own way, is just as quickly shut out. Ante has no desire to connect to anyone or to be part of any organization. Until Peter. Like himself, Peter is alone. Unlike himself, Peter is reaching out for company and willing to open his heart. At first it may just have been the kick Peter’s blood gave him and the wonderful sex they shared, but the longer he’s in Peter’s company, the more Ante is required to feel, the more he is urged to renounce his self-imposed exile and rejoin the not-so-human race.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
I have mixed feelings on this story. First, it’s a good vampire story. Second, it’s a creative paranormal story. I liked Ante and I was easily able to believe he was both an ancient vampire and a powerful one. But there were some pacing issues and a few plot issues, and then there’s Peter.
First, the good. By which I mean Ante. Ante is the narrator of this story and we see the events unfold through his point of view. He’s reserved, stand-offish, and highly moral with a dry sense of humor and a large dash of fatalism; he’s very much a “go with the flow” kind of vampire. When meeting a demoness and her hellhounds, he’s interested but not scared. When meeting a werewolf or a djinn, he’s just as indifferent to their existence. It’s not that he doesn’t care, it’s just that Peter and Peter’s life are more important to him. Making use of a demonesses power is what he cares about, not her life story. While it makes for a less developed world book-wise, it makes for a more believable narrative story-wise. Ante doesn’t care that I want to know why a djinn lives in California. He wants to know if she’ll help him protect Peter from the vampires.
Ante has been for much, if not all, of his life in Las Vegas firm in renouncing any and all ties. Lee, the boy he turned because he was lonely, was his first and perhaps only progeny, but Ante has cast him aside. Dorothy, who keeps inviting him to join the Shadows and offers a bit of friendship in her own way, is just as quickly shut out. Ante has no desire to connect to anyone or to be part of any organization. Until Peter. Like himself, Peter is alone. Unlike himself, Peter is reaching out for company and willing to open his heart. At first it may just have been the kick Peter’s blood gave him and the wonderful sex they shared, but the longer he’s in Peter’s company, the more Ante is required to feel, the more he is urged to renounce his self-imposed exile and rejoin the not-so-human race.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
January 25, 2018
Overall book rating: 3
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
Enjoyable enough. Lots eyebrow lifting moments but I did like Ante a whole lot and even Peter was nice. Nothing mind-blowing but good.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 3
Enjoyable enough. Lots eyebrow lifting moments but I did like Ante a whole lot and even Peter was nice. Nothing mind-blowing but good.
November 17, 2017
A pleasant paranormal romance.
I admit, I had a bit of difficulty 'merging' the vampire bit with . I guess I thought this would be more of a vampire-human tale. So the whole is nice but not what I imagine the story will be.
Kim Fielding's writing delivers though and the ending is really, REALLY lovely :)
I admit, I had a bit of difficulty 'merging' the vampire bit with . I guess I thought this would be more of a vampire-human tale. So the whole is nice but not what I imagine the story will be.
Kim Fielding's writing delivers though and the ending is really, REALLY lovely :)
November 23, 2018
**grm**** some spoilers down**
This book wasn't what I was expecting. Typical case of expectations losing vs reality.
--------
"The Protitute's Diaries"
Meet Ante a vampire that sells his body and drinks the blood of his customers. He is over 150 years old and still didn't have the time to find a proper job or learn a profession. Probably he likes to be a hooker. Learn all about his sex encounters, also if you didn't ask for these infos, and then see him find a sort of lover in a sugar addict, retired who*e, half-elf.
"Run or Catch Fire"
A vampire and an half-Elf on the run, hiding in shitty motels and stolen cars. Will they be able to find a sanctuary or will the elf need a vacuum cleaner to clean his lover's ashes? The sun may be their worst enemy, since the Shadows suck ball*.
--------
So these are the titles I would give to the book and the blurb for each of them, that I made up, pretty much describe all the story.
I didn't really feel any chemistry btw the MCs, and the few romantic words at the end, didn't change my mind. They seemed more friends with benefits, who had a mutual interest of staying alive and find a new home, where to be finally free. That's it, not really a romance in my opinion and their enemies, were actually pretty useless. The fight scene lasted like 2 pages? nah, probably less.
The only drama in this book was about the MCs pasts with the loss of their families and maybe the fact that they had to be hookers(ye both of them)to get some money to live.
This book wasn't what I was expecting. Typical case of expectations losing vs reality.
--------
"The Protitute's Diaries"
Meet Ante a vampire that sells his body and drinks the blood of his customers. He is over 150 years old and still didn't have the time to find a proper job or learn a profession. Probably he likes to be a hooker. Learn all about his sex encounters, also if you didn't ask for these infos, and then see him find a sort of lover in a sugar addict, retired who*e, half-elf.
"Run or Catch Fire"
A vampire and an half-Elf on the run, hiding in shitty motels and stolen cars. Will they be able to find a sanctuary or will the elf need a vacuum cleaner to clean his lover's ashes? The sun may be their worst enemy, since the Shadows suck ball*.
--------
So these are the titles I would give to the book and the blurb for each of them, that I made up, pretty much describe all the story.
I didn't really feel any chemistry btw the MCs, and the few romantic words at the end, didn't change my mind. They seemed more friends with benefits, who had a mutual interest of staying alive and find a new home, where to be finally free. That's it, not really a romance in my opinion and their enemies, were actually pretty useless. The fight scene lasted like 2 pages? nah, probably less.
The only drama in this book was about the MCs pasts with the loss of their families and maybe the fact that they had to be hookers(ye both of them)to get some money to live.
November 25, 2017
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
In the mid eighteen forties, Ante Novak died on a Croatian battlefield—and rose three days later as a vampire. His maker was good to him but tended to let him run wild, so he killed humans as he drank their blood and one time, as he looked into the eyes of a young man dying from TB, he decided to turn him and create his own vampire. But his vampire, Lee, didn’t turn out to be quite what Ante hoped for, and Ante himself finally realized the error of his destructive ways so he fled to the United States. Now he haunts Las Vegas, stealing a little blood here and there from humans who don’t even realize he’s had them. It helps him live in the Las Vegas area when he also helps himself to some of their money and it helps him stay away from working for the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows, which now happens to be run by Lee. They don’t have the “ethics” Ante has developed and kill indiscriminately when they take blood. Ante prefers his way and his luck is high when he meets beautiful and charming Peter Gehrardi, who seems to be able to influence others with his thoughts.
Intrigued, Ante eventually finds out that Peter is half-elf—no wonder his blood is so sweet and sparkly! But the Shadows want Peter captured so they can use his mind-influencing powers to their own gain and they try to enlist Ante to help them. Mistake! That’s the signal for Ante and Peter to run and they lead the Shadows on a merry adventure across the dessert and into a non-human sanctuary community in Northern California. Along the way there’s further (mis)adventures and lots of lovin’ as Peter and Ante come to mean much more to each other than a zero-hearted vampire could ever expect. There is, of course, a fight to the finish when Lee and the vampires from the Shadows track them to the sanctuary. Who will come out of the battle intact? And will Ante be able to find a happy ever after with someone who does not have the lifespan of a vampire?
This is an enjoyable story, but though I usually absolutely love Kim Fielding’s stories, this one fell just a little short for me. I couldn’t quite appreciate the characters—neither Peter with his love of sweets and charming personality, nor Ante with his “vampireness” and “cold” personality. I know this is a pun, but he was just too cold for me to warm up to. And Peter was just too over the top in cuteness. I must admit, however, there were a few times when I laughed out loud and there were a few times when teardrops rolled down my cheeks, but overall, I simply enjoyed this tale without finding it outstanding.
Would I recommend it? By all means, especially to those who enjoy these Dreamspun tales and to those who enjoy vampires with a soft side and all manner of other supernatural creatures.
In the mid eighteen forties, Ante Novak died on a Croatian battlefield—and rose three days later as a vampire. His maker was good to him but tended to let him run wild, so he killed humans as he drank their blood and one time, as he looked into the eyes of a young man dying from TB, he decided to turn him and create his own vampire. But his vampire, Lee, didn’t turn out to be quite what Ante hoped for, and Ante himself finally realized the error of his destructive ways so he fled to the United States. Now he haunts Las Vegas, stealing a little blood here and there from humans who don’t even realize he’s had them. It helps him live in the Las Vegas area when he also helps himself to some of their money and it helps him stay away from working for the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows, which now happens to be run by Lee. They don’t have the “ethics” Ante has developed and kill indiscriminately when they take blood. Ante prefers his way and his luck is high when he meets beautiful and charming Peter Gehrardi, who seems to be able to influence others with his thoughts.
Intrigued, Ante eventually finds out that Peter is half-elf—no wonder his blood is so sweet and sparkly! But the Shadows want Peter captured so they can use his mind-influencing powers to their own gain and they try to enlist Ante to help them. Mistake! That’s the signal for Ante and Peter to run and they lead the Shadows on a merry adventure across the dessert and into a non-human sanctuary community in Northern California. Along the way there’s further (mis)adventures and lots of lovin’ as Peter and Ante come to mean much more to each other than a zero-hearted vampire could ever expect. There is, of course, a fight to the finish when Lee and the vampires from the Shadows track them to the sanctuary. Who will come out of the battle intact? And will Ante be able to find a happy ever after with someone who does not have the lifespan of a vampire?
This is an enjoyable story, but though I usually absolutely love Kim Fielding’s stories, this one fell just a little short for me. I couldn’t quite appreciate the characters—neither Peter with his love of sweets and charming personality, nor Ante with his “vampireness” and “cold” personality. I know this is a pun, but he was just too cold for me to warm up to. And Peter was just too over the top in cuteness. I must admit, however, there were a few times when I laughed out loud and there were a few times when teardrops rolled down my cheeks, but overall, I simply enjoyed this tale without finding it outstanding.
Would I recommend it? By all means, especially to those who enjoy these Dreamspun tales and to those who enjoy vampires with a soft side and all manner of other supernatural creatures.
April 28, 2018
This book is pretty good, but I didn't love it. One of the leads, Peter, really irritated me, with his constant one-liners. I think that's my problem, though; I'm sure many readers would like his style of humor, but I don't usually like smart-ass characters.
I like the point-of-view character, Ante, much more. He's a vampire with principles, and a lot of his introspection in this book has to do with his own moral code. Peter's abilities make him a bit morally gray, too. But somehow, I never really fell in love with either of these characters, although they're never difficult to sympathize with.
The world this is set in is really great, with lots of supernatural beings. I've been reading this author's Bones series, which this book alludes to a couple times, but the supernatural stuff is much more in the forefront here than in that series. I really liked the part with the ghosts, and I wish they had played a bigger role in this story.
I appreciate that Kim Fielding often includes background queer characters in addition to the main pairing. I also like that even her villains usually have interesting backstories and reasonable motivations.
This was my first time reading a Dreamspun Beyond title and I'm willing to try another, but I'm not super enthusiastic about it. I would gladly read more stories set in this world, though!
I like the point-of-view character, Ante, much more. He's a vampire with principles, and a lot of his introspection in this book has to do with his own moral code. Peter's abilities make him a bit morally gray, too. But somehow, I never really fell in love with either of these characters, although they're never difficult to sympathize with.
The world this is set in is really great, with lots of supernatural beings. I've been reading this author's Bones series, which this book alludes to a couple times, but the supernatural stuff is much more in the forefront here than in that series. I really liked the part with the ghosts, and I wish they had played a bigger role in this story.
I appreciate that Kim Fielding often includes background queer characters in addition to the main pairing. I also like that even her villains usually have interesting backstories and reasonable motivations.
This was my first time reading a Dreamspun Beyond title and I'm willing to try another, but I'm not super enthusiastic about it. I would gladly read more stories set in this world, though!
April 12, 2018
I was hesitant to try these Dreamspun Beyond stories since I’d been burned so many times by Dreamspun Desires, even with favorite authors. Vamps aren’t even my favored supernatural, but I just couldn’t look a gift Kim Fielding in the mouth. And I’m glad I didn’t pass this up.
Some of my favorite audio books are novellas, cuz they lend themselves so well to that format. This falls into that category. It was easy, and enjoyable. Felt relatively light and drama free, despite the main characters running for their lives.
They didn’t have steaming chemistry, but I believed their friendship and their curiosity about each other. I liked how Ante acknowledged when Peter got a bit annoying, instead of keeping rose colored romance novel glasses on.
There was a wide array of characters and supernatural creatures without it feeling OTT or forced. The ultimate climax played out with some tension but worked out well, without being picture perfect.
I liked the narration as well. He pulled off Ante’s accent without sounding cheesy. Everything was well paced. I’d definitely keep an eye on this series in audio format.
Some of my favorite audio books are novellas, cuz they lend themselves so well to that format. This falls into that category. It was easy, and enjoyable. Felt relatively light and drama free, despite the main characters running for their lives.
They didn’t have steaming chemistry, but I believed their friendship and their curiosity about each other. I liked how Ante acknowledged when Peter got a bit annoying, instead of keeping rose colored romance novel glasses on.
There was a wide array of characters and supernatural creatures without it feeling OTT or forced. The ultimate climax played out with some tension but worked out well, without being picture perfect.
I liked the narration as well. He pulled off Ante’s accent without sounding cheesy. Everything was well paced. I’d definitely keep an eye on this series in audio format.
November 16, 2017
A vampire walks into a casino… is not the way this novel begins, but this story does revolve around Ante, a one-hundred-fifty-year-old vampire from Croatia who spends his time stealing blood and money from casino-going gamblers in Las Vegas, while trying to stay away from the “official” vampire rulers of the city. When members of the Shadows try to “convince” Ante to bring in a man of interest to them, Ante decides to stand up to them by refusing to do their bidding. The result is an action-packed story full of mysteries and revelations, suspense and humor, and a whole boatload of fascinating characters with a variety of sinister agendas.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 17, 2017
A light supernatural story with likable MCs. It's a pleasant read since there's no pretentiousness for being a vampire or a whore or a conman. The romance moved quite fast, but it didn't feel like insta-love. I think my favorite part was the sanctuary. I'd like to read more about the creatures living there.
April 12, 2018
Kim Fielding does it again! I loved this. My favorite of the Dreamspun series books by far. I listened to the audiobook and the narrator, Andrew McFerrin, was new to me and great. I'd definitely listen to more books narrated by him.
March 8, 2018
An interesting tale about a vampire who finds a reason to care again and an elf who doesn't know he's an elf.
July 27, 2018
A very interesting paranormal romance of finally finding some to live for.
Ante is a vampire living in Vegas as a free agent, which is a little unusual as the territory is claimed by a mafia-like organization, The Shadows. He does odd jobs to stay on the territory. Unlife has become uninteresting to Ante, as really he just goes along surviving, funding marks in the casinos for money or sex but nothing more. That is until he sees another man taking marks in the casino and getting away with it. Peter seems more than human but insists he isn't. The two have a great night together and split off- until The Shadows order Ante to bring Peter in to work for them. Ante has to make a decision for what he will stand up for.
Peter and Ante spark very quickly. They have plenty of easy chemistry between them that grows as their adventures do. There is no instant proclamation of love, but in choosing Peter there is a decision and declaration Ante makes. It is however one about morals and choices rather than about instant love, and it is a choice that is explored from a few angles in the book, which I really enjoyed.
It was fun how both Peter and Ante find themselves in a new world. Ante is teaching Peter about the paranormal world since he is suddenly thrust into it. Yet when they leave Las Vegas it turns out there is much about the paranormal world that even Ante doesn't know, so it ends up being a journey of discovery for both of them.
This was a great book that had a journey where both characters got to look for things they wanted in their lives and choices make a big impact on who people are. It was an engaging read with a fun world!
Ante is a vampire living in Vegas as a free agent, which is a little unusual as the territory is claimed by a mafia-like organization, The Shadows. He does odd jobs to stay on the territory. Unlife has become uninteresting to Ante, as really he just goes along surviving, funding marks in the casinos for money or sex but nothing more. That is until he sees another man taking marks in the casino and getting away with it. Peter seems more than human but insists he isn't. The two have a great night together and split off- until The Shadows order Ante to bring Peter in to work for them. Ante has to make a decision for what he will stand up for.
Peter and Ante spark very quickly. They have plenty of easy chemistry between them that grows as their adventures do. There is no instant proclamation of love, but in choosing Peter there is a decision and declaration Ante makes. It is however one about morals and choices rather than about instant love, and it is a choice that is explored from a few angles in the book, which I really enjoyed.
It was fun how both Peter and Ante find themselves in a new world. Ante is teaching Peter about the paranormal world since he is suddenly thrust into it. Yet when they leave Las Vegas it turns out there is much about the paranormal world that even Ante doesn't know, so it ends up being a journey of discovery for both of them.
This was a great book that had a journey where both characters got to look for things they wanted in their lives and choices make a big impact on who people are. It was an engaging read with a fun world!
Read
March 15, 2022Cute and sweet, despite the blood involved.
Somehow it took time for me to really dive into the story. But it’s a fairly entertaining paranormal tale; a redeemed vampire with conscious and oblivious paranormal being getting away from the greedy villains (once I got into the right space in my head).
Somehow it took time for me to really dive into the story. But it’s a fairly entertaining paranormal tale; a redeemed vampire with conscious and oblivious paranormal being getting away from the greedy villains (once I got into the right space in my head).
December 9, 2017
3.5 Stars
Kim Fielding offers up an endearing paranormal tale in her latest release, Ante Up. Tossing together a jaded vampire with a charming young elf, Ms. Fielding creates just the right chemistry to make this romance downright sweet and fun as well. Once again this author manages to create a new twist that makes what might have been just a standard paranormal tale so much better. Her characters are as unalike as possible, yet they work so well together. Peter pulls Ante from his dismal solitary life into one that he never thought could be his.
Ante is so jaded, bone-tired from a life that has left him alone and contemplating seeking a permanent end. He exists, never fully living, drifting from trick to trick, taking just enough blood to sustain himself, and stealing just enough money from his marks to survive. He remains in Las Vegas because of a connection that produces more guilt than joy. Staying one step ahead of the vampire mafia aptly named the Shadows, Ante does the occasional job for them because he must in order to remain free and independent. The last thing he expects is to encounter a being whose blood draws him like no other.
Peter has been a nomad most of his life, first with his flighty mother, and now as an adult. He lives from moment to moment, using his ability to sway others to do his bidding in order to gain the funds necessary to live. But, while Peter may use his power to charm others in order to survive, he never harms anyone. He is sweet, kindhearted and adrift. When he meets Ante, there is something about the brooding vampire that draws him in and makes it so very difficult to walk away.
Unfortunately for both men, the leader of the Shadows wants Peter for his own, in order to use his abilities to control those who stand in his way of growing his empire. At first, Ante is so sure there is no other way than to give Peter up, turn him in and just move on, but it’s the moving on part that has Ante troubled. There is something about the elf, and it’s more than the sweetness of his blood. For the first time, in a long time, Ante is feeling as though he may just have found a reason, or, rather, a person to live for—to fight for—to love. The vampire and elf throw their lot in together and must now find a way to elude the long, dark hand of the Shadows so that they can see just how deep their own emotions for each other run.
I think the best part of Ante Up was not actually the main character but his lover, Peter. The author provided so many little quirks about this elf and, as a result, created someone who immediately became my favorite. Peter was a bundle of joy; even when running for his life, he managed the energy to keep Ante from being morose and distant. Ante was certainly meant to be the star of this novel. However, because his story was given to us in mere dribs and drabs, and I felt we never got the clear connection between him and the leader of the shadows, he was a character that felt the most incomplete. In fact, if pushed, I would have to say that this entire novel felt somewhat unfinished to me. If this makes sense, it was a rather shallow version of the type of story we are used to from this author.
It’s difficult for me to pinpoint why I felt that way about Ante Up. It could be because I never really got to know Ante, to understand his loneliness and decision to never attempt to leave Vegas or try to build some sort of life for himself. He was the quintessential drifter, and even though Peter was of the same ilk, he seemed so much more relatable to me. Consequently, the showdown between Lee, the leader of the Shadows, and Ante seemed rather forced; Ante’s commitment to remaining aloof from society, and essentially homeless, didn’t really make sense, and the ease with which Peter and Ante finally do find a place to call home was just a bit too cliché.
I love Kim Fielding’s work—I do—but this story just seemed to be missing some real meat. I wanted more depth to the story, a better glimpse of Lee and Ante before they became enemies, and a lengthier version of Peter’s story as well. This is something I know this author can deliver time and again. In the end, Ante Up was a nice story—nothing that stood out, like much of Fielding’s work normally does for me—but still a fine novel. Peter is captivating and entertaining. Ante is redeemed in the end, and his love for Peter is so apparent and sweet. All in all, the book delivers a nice little romance without too much angst and just enough action to satisfy.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
Kim Fielding offers up an endearing paranormal tale in her latest release, Ante Up. Tossing together a jaded vampire with a charming young elf, Ms. Fielding creates just the right chemistry to make this romance downright sweet and fun as well. Once again this author manages to create a new twist that makes what might have been just a standard paranormal tale so much better. Her characters are as unalike as possible, yet they work so well together. Peter pulls Ante from his dismal solitary life into one that he never thought could be his.
Ante is so jaded, bone-tired from a life that has left him alone and contemplating seeking a permanent end. He exists, never fully living, drifting from trick to trick, taking just enough blood to sustain himself, and stealing just enough money from his marks to survive. He remains in Las Vegas because of a connection that produces more guilt than joy. Staying one step ahead of the vampire mafia aptly named the Shadows, Ante does the occasional job for them because he must in order to remain free and independent. The last thing he expects is to encounter a being whose blood draws him like no other.
Peter has been a nomad most of his life, first with his flighty mother, and now as an adult. He lives from moment to moment, using his ability to sway others to do his bidding in order to gain the funds necessary to live. But, while Peter may use his power to charm others in order to survive, he never harms anyone. He is sweet, kindhearted and adrift. When he meets Ante, there is something about the brooding vampire that draws him in and makes it so very difficult to walk away.
Unfortunately for both men, the leader of the Shadows wants Peter for his own, in order to use his abilities to control those who stand in his way of growing his empire. At first, Ante is so sure there is no other way than to give Peter up, turn him in and just move on, but it’s the moving on part that has Ante troubled. There is something about the elf, and it’s more than the sweetness of his blood. For the first time, in a long time, Ante is feeling as though he may just have found a reason, or, rather, a person to live for—to fight for—to love. The vampire and elf throw their lot in together and must now find a way to elude the long, dark hand of the Shadows so that they can see just how deep their own emotions for each other run.
I think the best part of Ante Up was not actually the main character but his lover, Peter. The author provided so many little quirks about this elf and, as a result, created someone who immediately became my favorite. Peter was a bundle of joy; even when running for his life, he managed the energy to keep Ante from being morose and distant. Ante was certainly meant to be the star of this novel. However, because his story was given to us in mere dribs and drabs, and I felt we never got the clear connection between him and the leader of the shadows, he was a character that felt the most incomplete. In fact, if pushed, I would have to say that this entire novel felt somewhat unfinished to me. If this makes sense, it was a rather shallow version of the type of story we are used to from this author.
It’s difficult for me to pinpoint why I felt that way about Ante Up. It could be because I never really got to know Ante, to understand his loneliness and decision to never attempt to leave Vegas or try to build some sort of life for himself. He was the quintessential drifter, and even though Peter was of the same ilk, he seemed so much more relatable to me. Consequently, the showdown between Lee, the leader of the Shadows, and Ante seemed rather forced; Ante’s commitment to remaining aloof from society, and essentially homeless, didn’t really make sense, and the ease with which Peter and Ante finally do find a place to call home was just a bit too cliché.
I love Kim Fielding’s work—I do—but this story just seemed to be missing some real meat. I wanted more depth to the story, a better glimpse of Lee and Ante before they became enemies, and a lengthier version of Peter’s story as well. This is something I know this author can deliver time and again. In the end, Ante Up was a nice story—nothing that stood out, like much of Fielding’s work normally does for me—but still a fine novel. Peter is captivating and entertaining. Ante is redeemed in the end, and his love for Peter is so apparent and sweet. All in all, the book delivers a nice little romance without too much angst and just enough action to satisfy.
Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach
December 3, 2017
Reviewed on The Blogger Girls
Ante’s lived a long time as a vampire and he’s reached the point where his life is a bit empty while living in Las Vegas. But then he meets Peter and finds him fascinating, watching him as he plays the casinos and people in them. He can’t help but be drawn to the charming man. So when the Shadows hire Ante to bring Peter to them, at first he’s willing to do it but the more time he spends with Peter the more he realizes he can’t let them have Peter especially when Ante finds out what Peter is. What ensues is an adventure as Peter and Ante run for their lives, trying to find a way to evade the Shadows. With the Shadows just one step behind, will they be able to find a place where they can call home and be free from the Shadows for good?
This one is really hard for me to review because I wasn’t feeling this story very much in the beginning. It was hard for me to really get into it because I couldn’t connect with Ante and this story is just from his POV. I liked him okay as a character at first but he was a bit dull and kinda robotic as in he did the same thing over and over.
For a majority of this story, I was just waiting for the next thing to happen. I almost put the book down several times because nothing really does happen and that’s the biggest complaint I have. I mean, sadly, I was thinking what I’d be reading next or what other story I could read if I put this down. I hate that I did that but I wanted to finish this book… but then I didn’t want to finish it. It was an odd feeling but it was just so hard to stay interested when not much happens. Peter is an intriguing character but Ante is just so simplistic and going through the motions and that made the story stagnant to me.
And then…. it picked up! Yes, it wasn’t until around 60-70% but I LOVED how fast-paced and adventurous things got. That moment when Peter and Ante realized that they were going to see this fight through and they weren’t going to leave each other really brought the story up in my eyes. Plus, that was when things stopped being all ‘one-night stand’ and turned into ‘this could possibly be my ever after’ type thing. A little corny I know but I love these stories for how cheesy they can be at times. Plus, I loved loved loved Peter as a character. I mean both Peter and Ante have a bit of nobleness to them but Peter was so spunky and sassy, I adored him.
In the end, I loved the ending but the beginning and middle just didn’t have enough oomph to keep me interested in the story as much as I would have liked to be. I loved Peter as a character but Ante never got to that point for me. I loved them together and I really adore where they ended up but I think the author would have benefited better by having POVs from Peter to even out Ante’s more somber voice.
Ante’s lived a long time as a vampire and he’s reached the point where his life is a bit empty while living in Las Vegas. But then he meets Peter and finds him fascinating, watching him as he plays the casinos and people in them. He can’t help but be drawn to the charming man. So when the Shadows hire Ante to bring Peter to them, at first he’s willing to do it but the more time he spends with Peter the more he realizes he can’t let them have Peter especially when Ante finds out what Peter is. What ensues is an adventure as Peter and Ante run for their lives, trying to find a way to evade the Shadows. With the Shadows just one step behind, will they be able to find a place where they can call home and be free from the Shadows for good?
This one is really hard for me to review because I wasn’t feeling this story very much in the beginning. It was hard for me to really get into it because I couldn’t connect with Ante and this story is just from his POV. I liked him okay as a character at first but he was a bit dull and kinda robotic as in he did the same thing over and over.
For a majority of this story, I was just waiting for the next thing to happen. I almost put the book down several times because nothing really does happen and that’s the biggest complaint I have. I mean, sadly, I was thinking what I’d be reading next or what other story I could read if I put this down. I hate that I did that but I wanted to finish this book… but then I didn’t want to finish it. It was an odd feeling but it was just so hard to stay interested when not much happens. Peter is an intriguing character but Ante is just so simplistic and going through the motions and that made the story stagnant to me.
And then…. it picked up! Yes, it wasn’t until around 60-70% but I LOVED how fast-paced and adventurous things got. That moment when Peter and Ante realized that they were going to see this fight through and they weren’t going to leave each other really brought the story up in my eyes. Plus, that was when things stopped being all ‘one-night stand’ and turned into ‘this could possibly be my ever after’ type thing. A little corny I know but I love these stories for how cheesy they can be at times. Plus, I loved loved loved Peter as a character. I mean both Peter and Ante have a bit of nobleness to them but Peter was so spunky and sassy, I adored him.
In the end, I loved the ending but the beginning and middle just didn’t have enough oomph to keep me interested in the story as much as I would have liked to be. I loved Peter as a character but Ante never got to that point for me. I loved them together and I really adore where they ended up but I think the author would have benefited better by having POVs from Peter to even out Ante’s more somber voice.
November 14, 2017
This was surprisingly a fantastic read. I was nicely surprised at just how much I really enjoyed this book. The is the element of danger, lust, love, and many different kinds of paranormals.
Ante is a vampire that has lived for a very long time. He is not the type of vampire that cares about power or even wealth. He does not enjoy killing humans and he is definitely what one would consider a loner. He only eats enough to stay alive and he only takes enough money in order to have a warm bed and a shower. When he does feed he only does so with men because he can make them think that in their drunken state that they have had sex and will not remember the fact that he has bitten them.
The Shadow is a larger organization of vampires thy is all about power and control, not to mention wealth. They have tried numerous times to convince Ante to join them but he is unwilling to do so.
When Ante meets a man that intrigues him because of his abilities that Ante has never seen before, Ante knows he has to meeet him. From the moment that Ante and Peter met both men knew there was something different about the other but they did not know what u till the first time they had sex. Each man thought this would be the last tim seeing one another but neither could get thenother off their mind and then TheSgadow enlightens Ante on who Peter is.
Peter refuses to join The Shadow but The Shadow is unwilling to let him walk away because they want his abilities. Ante has decided he has finally found his purpose in what he is starting to build with Peter and Peter feels the same about Ante. Together these two will fight to try and keep each other alive. The question is can they?
This book is full of all kinds of emotions and danger going on. It is an exciting read hat will not leave the reader disappointed. I thoroughly enjoyed his book and believe others will also.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Ante is a vampire that has lived for a very long time. He is not the type of vampire that cares about power or even wealth. He does not enjoy killing humans and he is definitely what one would consider a loner. He only eats enough to stay alive and he only takes enough money in order to have a warm bed and a shower. When he does feed he only does so with men because he can make them think that in their drunken state that they have had sex and will not remember the fact that he has bitten them.
The Shadow is a larger organization of vampires thy is all about power and control, not to mention wealth. They have tried numerous times to convince Ante to join them but he is unwilling to do so.
When Ante meets a man that intrigues him because of his abilities that Ante has never seen before, Ante knows he has to meeet him. From the moment that Ante and Peter met both men knew there was something different about the other but they did not know what u till the first time they had sex. Each man thought this would be the last tim seeing one another but neither could get thenother off their mind and then TheSgadow enlightens Ante on who Peter is.
Peter refuses to join The Shadow but The Shadow is unwilling to let him walk away because they want his abilities. Ante has decided he has finally found his purpose in what he is starting to build with Peter and Peter feels the same about Ante. Together these two will fight to try and keep each other alive. The question is can they?
This book is full of all kinds of emotions and danger going on. It is an exciting read hat will not leave the reader disappointed. I thoroughly enjoyed his book and believe others will also.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
November 18, 2017
Full review at :
https://optimumm.blog/2017/11/18/review-ante-up-by-kim-fielding/
Ante is a vampire living in Las Vegas. He’s solitary, and survives by seducing drunken men before stealing and feeding from them (but not killing).
Peter is a charming man. He’s young, blunt and seems to have the capacity to read people.
When Ante and Peter met, it was lust at first sight, a passionate attraction between them. But when the Shadow, a powerful vampire organisation, wants Peter, Ante has no choice but to go to war against them for Peter’s life.
It was a pleasurable book.
Ante is old, like super old, and he’s kind of blasé by life. He’s solitary and refuses to “hang out” with others vampires or any others species. Peter is naïve, smart and kind. Without knowing it, he awakes Ante (no pun intended), he brings something to Ante, that this Vampire had never expected. Hope, Goals, love.
I liked these guys, they’re adorable and sweet. Their love story is easy and simple to follow, no angst, no personal drama (except a horde of Vampires who wants to kidnap Peter and kill Ante). Their interactions are funny and more than once, I smiled at their banter.
The writing was good. The book is written from Ante’s POV, and easy to follow. The plot is well built, the storyline and the events are coherent.
I recommend this book, if you want to read a simple, sweet love story with action and fun.
4 OptimuMM for this gay supernatural version of Bonny and Clyde
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
https://optimumm.blog/2017/11/18/review-ante-up-by-kim-fielding/
Ante is a vampire living in Las Vegas. He’s solitary, and survives by seducing drunken men before stealing and feeding from them (but not killing).
Peter is a charming man. He’s young, blunt and seems to have the capacity to read people.
When Ante and Peter met, it was lust at first sight, a passionate attraction between them. But when the Shadow, a powerful vampire organisation, wants Peter, Ante has no choice but to go to war against them for Peter’s life.
It was a pleasurable book.
Ante is old, like super old, and he’s kind of blasé by life. He’s solitary and refuses to “hang out” with others vampires or any others species. Peter is naïve, smart and kind. Without knowing it, he awakes Ante (no pun intended), he brings something to Ante, that this Vampire had never expected. Hope, Goals, love.
I liked these guys, they’re adorable and sweet. Their love story is easy and simple to follow, no angst, no personal drama (except a horde of Vampires who wants to kidnap Peter and kill Ante). Their interactions are funny and more than once, I smiled at their banter.
The writing was good. The book is written from Ante’s POV, and easy to follow. The plot is well built, the storyline and the events are coherent.
I recommend this book, if you want to read a simple, sweet love story with action and fun.
4 OptimuMM for this gay supernatural version of Bonny and Clyde
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
February 15, 2018
I’m a huge Kim Fielding fan and I’ve really been enjoying these Dreamspun books so I was really looking forward to this.
I think that if I hadn’t had such high expectations for a story from this author – I know what amazing things she can do – I would have given this more stars. But… and maybe this is unfair – I didn’t resonate with this like I have so many of her other stories.
On the one hand it was pretty interesting and fairly light, the two MCs are not exactly what you’d expect – which is refreshing. On the other hand I wasn’t really ever bowled over by their chemistry and I was a bit disappointed by the ending.
However – if you’re in the mood for a paranormal story written by an excellent author with a somewhat unique twist on the trope – give this is a try – you won’t be disappointed!
3.5 of 5 stars
Audio
Here is another example of where a great narrator can absolutely elevate a story to the next level. I admit that I was surprised I hadn’t loved this before - Kim Fielding is a writing Goddess! – but it hadn’t struck the right notes with me. However, the narrator – Andrew McFerrin – did an amazing job! He gave everyone unique voices that absolutely suited them perfectly (I LOVED Ante and never realized you pronounce it Aunty…) and thought his depiction of Peter was fantastic!
He gave us just the right amount of emotion and angst and humor to make this a really gripping listen.
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
Overall
4.5 of 5 stars
I think that if I hadn’t had such high expectations for a story from this author – I know what amazing things she can do – I would have given this more stars. But… and maybe this is unfair – I didn’t resonate with this like I have so many of her other stories.
On the one hand it was pretty interesting and fairly light, the two MCs are not exactly what you’d expect – which is refreshing. On the other hand I wasn’t really ever bowled over by their chemistry and I was a bit disappointed by the ending.
However – if you’re in the mood for a paranormal story written by an excellent author with a somewhat unique twist on the trope – give this is a try – you won’t be disappointed!
3.5 of 5 stars
Audio
Here is another example of where a great narrator can absolutely elevate a story to the next level. I admit that I was surprised I hadn’t loved this before - Kim Fielding is a writing Goddess! – but it hadn’t struck the right notes with me. However, the narrator – Andrew McFerrin – did an amazing job! He gave everyone unique voices that absolutely suited them perfectly (I LOVED Ante and never realized you pronounce it Aunty…) and thought his depiction of Peter was fantastic!
He gave us just the right amount of emotion and angst and humor to make this a really gripping listen.
Highly recommended!
5 of 5 stars
Overall
4.5 of 5 stars
November 12, 2017
4.5 Stars
Ante is a vampire living in Vegas. He roams the strip looking for drunk men that he can take a little blood and money from so he can survive. Out one night on the prowl, he comes across an attractive guy who seems to have a knack for charming people out of their winnings.
Ante and Peter are attracted to one another, but after drinking from Peter, Ante is curious as to what kind of species Peter is. When the Shadows, the vampires who run Vegas, call Ante to a meeting and request he find the elf running around Vegas, Ante realizes the elf they are looking for is Peter. Ante refuses to turn him over because he wants to protect Peter, although he’s not sure why. As they run from the shadows the feelings they have for one another deepen.
I absolutely adored Ante and Peter and they fit together perfectly. This was just a really fun and easy story to read. It had humor, romance and some action, too. It was well-written and paced well and Peter and Ante were both likable and had great chemistry.
This was a pretty light, considering the subject matter, and easy to read story that I really enjoyed. The writing was great and I found I couldn’t put the book down! Very enjoyable and very recommendable!
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher*
Ante is a vampire living in Vegas. He roams the strip looking for drunk men that he can take a little blood and money from so he can survive. Out one night on the prowl, he comes across an attractive guy who seems to have a knack for charming people out of their winnings.
Ante and Peter are attracted to one another, but after drinking from Peter, Ante is curious as to what kind of species Peter is. When the Shadows, the vampires who run Vegas, call Ante to a meeting and request he find the elf running around Vegas, Ante realizes the elf they are looking for is Peter. Ante refuses to turn him over because he wants to protect Peter, although he’s not sure why. As they run from the shadows the feelings they have for one another deepen.
I absolutely adored Ante and Peter and they fit together perfectly. This was just a really fun and easy story to read. It had humor, romance and some action, too. It was well-written and paced well and Peter and Ante were both likable and had great chemistry.
This was a pretty light, considering the subject matter, and easy to read story that I really enjoyed. The writing was great and I found I couldn’t put the book down! Very enjoyable and very recommendable!
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher*
November 14, 2017
Ante is almost a century and a half old. He hangs out around the casinos in Vegas to get his meals and money. He figures it's not too bad if the person is so drunk he doesn't remember what he is doing and could be losing it at the gaming tables. He tries to avoid the Shadows but occasionally they make him work for him to stay in their territory.
Peter knows he isn't normal but he never uses his ability to read people and convince them things to harm or to the extreme, just enough to get food and a place to stay.
Ante notices Peter and at first is curious about the beautiful man, one taste he wats more. Then the Shadows call in another favor. Will he turn Peter over to them?
Kim Fielding always has a way with the unusual story and characters and she didn't let me down here. The world building is fabulous. The Shadows have the perfect supernatural Mafia feel, you feel like you are in Vegas, then later we go on a trip to a few other worlds, with ghosts, demons and other creatures. The characters are all intriguing, the plot is interesting, and the romance is sweet yet sexy.
If you are looking for an M/M vampire story or supernatural book I highly recommend this one!
Peter knows he isn't normal but he never uses his ability to read people and convince them things to harm or to the extreme, just enough to get food and a place to stay.
Ante notices Peter and at first is curious about the beautiful man, one taste he wats more. Then the Shadows call in another favor. Will he turn Peter over to them?
Kim Fielding always has a way with the unusual story and characters and she didn't let me down here. The world building is fabulous. The Shadows have the perfect supernatural Mafia feel, you feel like you are in Vegas, then later we go on a trip to a few other worlds, with ghosts, demons and other creatures. The characters are all intriguing, the plot is interesting, and the romance is sweet yet sexy.
If you are looking for an M/M vampire story or supernatural book I highly recommend this one!
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