Review: Fun, Different Vampire Story
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 01 14, 2014
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.