Blood of Anteros (The Vampire Agápe Series, #1) by Georgia Cates

Nov 21, 2011 Cindy rated it 5 of 5 stars

Blood by Anteros, by Georgia Cates really surprised me! I really try to stay away from Vampire Books since they end up being very similar to a Saga that has been trending and is trending at the moment (won't mention it as I am bit exhaust of hearing from it constantly on reviews); but it was recommended to me and the book's cover along with the sypnosis intrigued me! I decided to give this book a shot since the kindle book was only $.99 in amazon.
The only other vampire books that I've read, besi...more Blood by Anteros, by Georgia Cates really surprised me! I really try to stay away from Vampire Books since they end up being very similar to a Saga that has been trending and is trending at the moment (won't mention it as I am bit exhaust of hearing from it constantly on reviews); but it was recommended to me and the book's cover along with the sypnosis intrigued me! I decided to give this book a shot since the kindle book was only $.99 in amazon.
The only other vampire books that I've read, besides this one, is Blood Like Poision and I really enjoyed it because it really had a good story behind it, and it was a different take on Vampires! With Blood by Anteros, the Vampires, the characters and story feel more realistic, it's not far fetched from reality where you have super mutan vampires flying around.
What I really loved about the book was that it was from a male POV. This gives the book a completely different feel to the story because Curry's story is so compelling and sad that you feel his pain and anguish! Without giving too much away, Curry is a Vampire turned in the late 1800s when he was 26. He was turned against his will by a psychotic, obsessed Vampire named Marsala. He detests what he has become. All he sees is how his life, his future was taken away. All he wanted was for a normal life, with a wife and kids with whom he can grow old and die when the time came; but instead he was a monster living through internity at the mercy of Marsala.
Within the first chapter you learn of his story, and the hatred he has for his new life and maker, his story is what draws you in immediately. I loved how the author was descriptive with the facts and how she laid everything down, and how the story build and grew.
On a magical night where Curry plans his death, something unexpected happens which changes everything for him, and in that moment he finds the opportunity he had been waiting for all those years. What he doesn't know is, that night set everything in motion that will change his life and future as a Vampire, that will lead him to meet Chansey.
The romance builds in the story, it's not like, I meet you today and tomorrow I am in love with you kind of story. Their
relationship builds which I like! You get the excitement when you meet someone that you like but you don't know what the person feels, so there is the akwardness, the jitters, and once you get pass all that there are the little things that make your heart jump, and then you enjoy each others company, and all you want to do is be around that person! Well, this story gives you that, it gives you that natural feel of the relationship. It's not forced or fake, it's natural, and I think that's what did it for me! It's a beautiful story because you want for Curry to get his 2nd chance in life, which he well deserves!(less)

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Dec 29, 2011 Lissette rated it 5 of 5 stars

From the moment of his creation, Curry Brennan has detested the fact that he was made into a vampire. A fact his maker, Marsala, has never cared to acknowledge. Spending every waking moment trying to devise his own demise, he knows it's only a matter of time before he succeeds in achieving that very goal.

Drawn to Mexico to experience the coming eclipse, he decides it's the perfect moment in which to release himself from Marsala's hold. Stepping into the light, he awaits a blissful death, never k...more

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Dec 30, 2012 Racquel added it

LOVE the cover of this! It's BEAUUUTIFUL!

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Sep 13, 2012 jD rated it 1 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, 1_library-yes

The first half of this book is a solid four stars then it went down the rabbit hole. The vampire mythology and the angle taken to keep this one YA was a dealbreaker in every way. Even free on Amazon can't make up the way this thing went to hell.

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Aug 20, 2012 Jessica rated it 1 of 5 stars

This is the first book in a series that I will not be continuing because I couldn't even get through the first half.

There. I said it and yes, you read correctly. I am writing a review for a book that was, in my opinion, so terrible that I will never find out how Curry eludes his maker Marsala. I won't ever find out how the doomed romance between him and Chansey resolves. I'll never get a chance to figure out what being an Agape really means to any of them.

And what's worse? I don't care to. For t...more This is the first book in a series that I will not be continuing because I couldn't even get through the first half.

There. I said it and yes, you read correctly. I am writing a review for a book that was, in my opinion, so terrible that I will never find out how Curry eludes his maker Marsala. I won't ever find out how the doomed romance between him and Chansey resolves. I'll never get a chance to figure out what being an Agape really means to any of them.

And what's worse? I don't care to. For the first time in my brief history as a book reviewer I'm throwing out the golden rule of bracketing every critique in two compliments. It just isn't possible for me this time. In fact, I almost didn't review Blood of Anteros because after looking at all the glowing reviews for this series, some even written by other reviewers that I follow and trust, there is a small part of me that believes that maybe, just maybe, I'm the outlier - and it's my opinion that stinks... not this book. But after further consideration I truly feel like this one needs to avoided. But why? I'll give you three reasons:

1. Curry is a vampire. A vampire who can walk in the daylight because of some strange elliptical happening. Which is all well and good but once you get reading he'll say things like he can't eat real food, making a big excuse to avoid going down to breakfast because he doesn't want his non-food-eating self revealed. But then a chapter or two later he'll be scarfing breakfast with the same group of people.
2. Even by the halfway point I still got the sense that the author was still trying to figure out the point and overall, vampire element felt like it was jammed into the story.
3. Lastly, the editing is terrible! This in and of itself makes it really, really, difficult to read because I constantly found myself trying to make sense of a misused (or totally missing) word or poorly punctuated sentence.

To everyone who loves these books I'm sorry for the hard lined review. To everyone else, read at your own risk! (less)

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Aug 19, 2012 Diayll rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour

Originally Reviewed At:Mothter/Gamer/Writer
Rating: 4 out of 5 Controllers
Review Source: Blog Tour
Reviewer: Jennifer

Anytime I’m sent a vampire book, I get a little nervous. Most end up with the same plot lines, boy meets girl, they fall in inevitable love, yet the boy is tortured by his own immortality and self-hate. Something happens to make the girl suspicious, she starts digging, finds out he is a vampire, and insanity ensues. When it came to Blood of Anteros, while in most ways I was right,...more

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Jul 23, 2012 Stephanie rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: owned

This is a story of soul mates, a love story as old as time. I was hooked from the very first page. The love between Curry and Chansey was undeniable and beautiful to watch as it unfolded through the story. Curry was every bit a vampire gentleman doing everything he could to win his love and protect her at all cost. Chansey was a destined Agape, a woman who understandood his nature and was his perfect mate. There was even a mythical god that started certain events falling into place when and wher...more This is a story of soul mates, a love story as old as time. I was hooked from the very first page. The love between Curry and Chansey was undeniable and beautiful to watch as it unfolded through the story. Curry was every bit a vampire gentleman doing everything he could to win his love and protect her at all cost. Chansey was a destined Agape, a woman who understandood his nature and was his perfect mate. There was even a mythical god that started certain events falling into place when and where they did.

Curry and Chansey had a few harrowing experiences. Marsala, Curry's maker was still obsessed with him and vowed to kill whomever he fell in love with. And Chansey came with her own nutso baggage for Curry to deal with. Then there were a couple of other small brushes with bad guys. Curry only wanted to protect Chansey from all this stuff so he made stupid decisions based on outdated thinking. Luckily he had the help of his two mentors, Sabastian and Solomon, to steer him the right way on many occasions.

While I truly did love reading this beautiful love story, I had a few minor issues. First, there wasn't much action involved in it. I kept wondering when one of the bad guys were going to actually do something devastating. These bad guys were not very diligent in their roles, despite the thought and worry put into the dialogue. Second, some background things never were explained. Like, what was the difference between the vampires and humans besides the vamps drank blood and they couldn't go out in the sun? Also, where did Curry get his blood from when he was living at the plantation home?

The characters are good for a light love story; they're not real deep. Curry was obsessed with keeping Chansey safe, almost to the point of stalker. Chansey was a little wishy-washy. In the book there was mention that she had a strong personality but I have to disagree. I think she just accepted the whole Agape thing a little too easily. She was so blinded by love I guess it didn't matter.

I give the book a rating of 3. The storyline read smoothly and was entertaining. I wanted to know immediately what was going to happen next so I read the sequel directly afterward. (less)

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Jul 18, 2012 Marissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Let me just say for starters...this was wonderful. Honestly, at first I did not what to except. What I instantly did like was Curry, and his words, and then I realize that this story is all from his POV and that was interesting at first, and I really l came to like it; what it's like to be an old Vampire (oh yeah he's a vampire!) and his newfound feelings for someone else, a human in fact, a young woman named Chansey. This was a wonderful well put story. To me, I felt like there were really no c...more

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Apr 03, 2012 Bethaney rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: everyone who likes vampire books

I loved that this book was a vampire story told from a males perspective! It's nice to know some men think like this and can feel this kind of emotion. The characters were strong, like-able, and relatable (for the most part, since no one is a vampire). The story was intriguing (but so short!) and refreshing from all the other YA paranormal vampire books I've read so far. The love between the two seemed real and their interactions with each other, falling in love, was adorable. The love was forme...more

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Jan 01, 2012 Beverly rated it 4 of 5 stars

My thoughts:
Completely enjoyed this story! The story is original, the characters are fantastic, the plot is clever and intriguing. It is well paced and well written.

I was thrilled with the fact that Georgia Cates brings us into the story at what should have been the end. We begin the story with Curry planning to end his life, but what happens is incredible - in the moment when his life should end, it begins anew.
Curry is a wonderful character, creatively constructed with a great personality an...more

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Jan 01, 2012 Molly rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: everyone

Recommended to Molly by: BewitchingBooks Blog Tours

Shelves: book-review

Georgia Cates has got great talent! She took a wonderful plot line and splashed it with great characters, to throw her readers an impressive start to a great new series!

The premise of Curry, an over 150 year old Vampire, being angry at who he is....well, that's just really cool. I've read some really good vampires and none have had this premise. Curry is controlled by Marsala, a deceitful, evil Vampiress who made Curry into the black hearted Vampire he was. But, on one fateful night, during an...more Georgia Cates has got great talent! She took a wonderful plot line and splashed it with great characters, to throw her readers an impressive start to a great new series!

The premise of Curry, an over 150 year old Vampire, being angry at who he is....well, that's just really cool. I've read some really good vampires and none have had this premise. Curry is controlled by Marsala, a deceitful, evil Vampiress who made Curry into the black hearted Vampire he was. But, on one fateful night, during an eclipse, Curry makes a plea....one that could change his life forever.

When Curry got the chance, he found a way to break the hold on his life from his creator. He took a chance on his life, and went for it. Little did he know, that that chance would lead his heart to something brighter, something better than an evil obsession. Twenty years after that fateful plea, he moves into a home, a home that he rents from the people who live in the house that he, himself, built. When he meets their granddaughter for the first time....his heart feels different than it ever did before.

The whole Agape, and Anteros thing really threw me for a loop. I had no I idea what to expect. But, I was in for a wonderful treat with this. When Chansey entered the scene and Curry realized his feelings for her, it really took the story up an interesting notch. Cates adds a twist of mysteriousness to the story when Chansey's life becomes endangered, and Curry has to do whatever it takes to protect her.

When the end of the story hit, I was disappointed. I wanted more. I didn't want to wait and wait for another great story. Curry and Chansey had me hooked and I even felt drawn to the evil Marsala. She just added the right amount of depth to story. This 4 Book worthy work has me thristing for more romance, for more vampires, for more amazingness. I can't wait until we get more from this talented author. This is a fantastic story of evil, goodness, obsession, second chances and romance. I highly recommend this new Vampire with a twist. Well done, Ms. Cates!

In part with a blog tour, this review originated from my blog, Reviews By Molly.(less)

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Dec 27, 2011 Cocktails and Books rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: author-provided, paranormal

This was an interesting twist on a vampire tale. Vampires who have a God chosen soul mate who will return that vampire's humanity while being the vampires biggest weakness. An awesome premise and to have this story introduced by a vampire who hates what he is was a perfect start to the Vampire Agape series.

Curry Brennan was turned against his will by a sadistic woman who wanted nothing more than to own him. Own him she did for 139 years until one fateful eclipse released Curry from their bond. C...more

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Dec 19, 2011 Sapphyria rated it 4 of 5 stars

Blood of Anteros is was wonderfully different take on vampires. The novel is told from vampire, Curry's point-of-view. He is created against his will by an evil vampire, Marsala, and basically kept as her slave. In 1989, during an eclipse, he decides to end his life and walk into the sun, effectively committing himself to the "Second Death." Upon the exposure of the sun he feels his life change and instead of burning to death as vampires tend to do when standing in sunlight, he feels his bond br...more

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Aug 13, 2012 Laura Hartley rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was really surprised by the opening passages of this novel. The cover is just so fantastically beautiful that I had in my mind a form that I thought this book would take, but I was completely wrong. The beginning of this novel is so intriguing and right from the onset the author is setting you up for something big to happen later in the novel. The first chapter was just so mysterious, I couldn't stop reading and the writing of this book is absolutely mesmerising.

I never really understood it w...more I was really surprised by the opening passages of this novel. The cover is just so fantastically beautiful that I had in my mind a form that I thought this book would take, but I was completely wrong. The beginning of this novel is so intriguing and right from the onset the author is setting you up for something big to happen later in the novel. The first chapter was just so mysterious, I couldn't stop reading and the writing of this book is absolutely mesmerising.

I never really understood it when characters in books talked of people (vampires) looking young but seemingly wise beyond their years until now. Curry is a young man but something about him makes it seem like he's a lot older than that. The book is written from his perspective so we are hearing the thoughts of a vampire who's over one hundred years old and it's really strange because usually we read a book through the experiences of the human. I was really surprised by the fact that this book was written from the male perspective. Most of the paranormal romances I've read have been from a woman's perspective, in fact, I don't think I've ever read a paranormal romance from the male POV. This was really interesting and refreshing because it meant that immediately it was different from all the others and it was the female character that was the intriguing one.

I liked that even though this is a 'paranormal romance', the paranormal aspect wasn't that overbearing. In fact, at times I completely forgot that Curry was even a vampire. This was unusual for me because in most of the other vampire books I've read, the fact that the characters were vampires was an extremely prominent feature that the author sort of forced upon you at every turn, but this was different. The paranormal elements are quite subtle and this made the whole plot seem more realistic, something that is quite hard to do when you're talking about the supernatural in this day and age.

I've read too many books recently where the characters fall in love instantaneously and frankly I was starting to get a little bored of romances. Blood of Anteros; however, has broken that streak because the relationship between the two main characters, Curry and Chansey, actually develops. There is a real build up throughout the novel and the story unfolds slowly and carefully, keeping you interested throughout the whole novel.

I tried to read this book at my normal pace but for some reason I just couldn't. I had to read every single word, slowly and carefully because I didn't want to miss a single detail. This slowness isn't a bad thing, it just meant that I was caught under this book's spell and it wanted me to read every single letter and it was impossible for me to even try to speed up. I found it kind of annoying that the book had that sort of power over me and it was really strange because I've never really encountered a book that set out a pace that I couldn't break.

I thought this would be just like those other vampire books popping up all over the place, but it really wasn't and for that I am so glad. This book is absolutely gripping and I would highly recommend it to all fans of paranormal romance.

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Dec 19, 2011 Sarah Snyder rated it 3 of 5 stars

Blood of Anteros has a creative storyline that manages to make the worn out vampire paranormal romance interesting. What makes this story interesting and exciting is that the main focus is on Curry and Chansey. Sure it’s a supernatural story with vampires, but that all takes a back seat to the relationship between the two characters.

The relationship between Curry and Chansey is a dynamic one and I enjoyed seeing it develop over the course of the book. Although at times, I must admit, Curry got...more Blood of Anteros has a creative storyline that manages to make the worn out vampire paranormal romance interesting. What makes this story interesting and exciting is that the main focus is on Curry and Chansey. Sure it’s a supernatural story with vampires, but that all takes a back seat to the relationship between the two characters.

The relationship between Curry and Chansey is a dynamic one and I enjoyed seeing it develop over the course of the book. Although at times, I must admit, Curry got on my last nerve and I found him difficult to pin down. Cates describes him as an old fashioned gent who never really learned how to talk to women. Which is understandable; he comes from a time when men and women really didn’t interact before marriage. Then, he was enslaved by his psychotic maker for a hundred and twenty something years, so he obviously isn’t up on the dating scene. What really threw me about Curry was his internal dialogue and narration. He is supposed to be this extremely old fashioned man, but his narration sounds like a contemporary man. Sure, he fumbles a lot with Chansey and how to woo her, but he sounds like a modern man. Although Curry got under my skin at times, I absolutely adored Chansey. She's a little firecracker who refuses to sit by idly and watch things pass her by. She is the kind of girl to take action and I love her for it.

My only other complaint is that we didn’t get to see much of Marsala. Marsala is Curry’s maker and she is completely off her rocker. She’s evil and insane to the core and completely obsessed with him. We are introduced to her right away, yet she really doesn’t end up playing much of a role in the story. I was really disappointed with that. I can only hope that we will see more of her in the upcoming books, because if there is one thing I love, it’s a crazy vampire. Plus, we all know there is nothing like a woman scorned. I am fully prepared for Cates to bring on the crazy.

Blood of Anteros was definitely enjoyable. If you are looking for a vampire romance that is heavier on the romance than the steaminess, I would give it a try. It’s got an interesting storyline that has a sweet romance at the core.
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Nov 21, 2011 Annette M Guerriero Nishimoto rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Today's review is on Blood of Anteros by Georgia Cates

Sometimes the best things come in the smallest; or in this case, inexpensive packages. The for small cost of just $.99, the Blood of Anteros takes the reader on a fantastic journey.

Curry Brennan was turned into a vampire against his will over 160 years ago. The woman/vampire responsible; Marsala, turned him, claimed him, and as far as he is concerned took everything away from him. When she decides to take him and the two other vampires she cl...more Today's review is on Blood of Anteros by Georgia Cates

Sometimes the best things come in the smallest; or in this case, inexpensive packages. The for small cost of just $.99, the Blood of Anteros takes the reader on a fantastic journey.

Curry Brennan was turned into a vampire against his will over 160 years ago. The woman/vampire responsible; Marsala, turned him, claimed him, and as far as he is concerned took everything away from him. When she decides to take him and the two other vampires she claims to watch the solar eclipse he decides to take things into his own hands. He decides to face the "true death" by remaining in the sun when the eclipse ends. Saying a brief prayer just before the sun comes back out he is shocked to find that not only is he still "alive", but he is able to withstand the suns rays.

Twenty-One years later he finds himself back at the home that he had built in his human youth. Though it is now home to an elderly human couple, he does not fear that he will want their blood. After all, he has had the help of his mentor to "train" him. It's only when he is informed that the couples granddaughter will also be living in the house does he have cause for alarm. That is until he meets her.

Chansey captures Curry's heart from the moment he first meets her. Just her scent is enough to excite him, and it's not the scent of her blood. Unknown to either of them, they are meant to be together.

Chansey was born on the same day of the solar eclipse, and though she has her human parents' DNA she also has the blood of the god Anteros running through her veins. After finding out that she is his Agape, Curry decides that the only way to keep her safe from Marsala is to end their growing love affair and protect her from the shadows. There are other dangers out there though which prevent him from maintaining that distance. When things finally seem to be coming together in their favor however, Curry's younger brother shows up and throws a huge monkey wrench into the mix.

Finding new and inventive ways to tell a vampire love story is not an easy task. Cates has been able to do just that in spades. Being told from the point of view of Curry is just one of those ways. You'll have to read the book to find the others.

4 of 5 stars(less)

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Apr 08, 2013 Deanna rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: vampires, free-ebook, mild-language

I've been meaning to read a Georgia Cates book for quite some time now. Before now, I actually picked up this book to read it on several different occasions, but I never got past the first few words, "July 11, 1989 Los Cabos, Mexico". The knowledge that the book was starting out in the "past" did not intrigue me. (I'm always bored by flashbacks and things of a similar manner, whether it be in books or in TV shows, so I was automatically turned off from reading this book). Ironically, the first c...more

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Aug 11, 2012 Carrie Ardoin rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: tour, vamps, posted-on-blog

3.5 STARS

Curry Brennan was turned vampire against his will in the 1850's. He lives a miserable existence until the day he is able to mysteriously walk in daylight and leave his maker Marsala behind.

Twenty-one years later, Curry returns to his old home in Mississippi. There he finds the irresistible Chansey Leclaire. She consumes him in ways he never believed a human could, and he soon finds out why. Curry vows to keep Chansey protected from her enemies, and his.

I started off really loving this b...more 3.5 STARS

Curry Brennan was turned vampire against his will in the 1850's. He lives a miserable existence until the day he is able to mysteriously walk in daylight and leave his maker Marsala behind.

Twenty-one years later, Curry returns to his old home in Mississippi. There he finds the irresistible Chansey Leclaire. She consumes him in ways he never believed a human could, and he soon finds out why. Curry vows to keep Chansey protected from her enemies, and his.

I started off really loving this book, but somewhere along the line I started to have problems with some things.

I truly did like Curry. I LOVE old school vampires...Curry was almost like a mix of Louis from Interview with a Vampire and Edward Cullen. Chansey was kind of meh, to me, and I honestly couldn't wrap my head around why at least 4 dudes were after her. But she and Curry were great together. Yes, it was kinda like insta-love...but in a way, it was not. I can't say why without giving a spoiler, but it makes sense.

As a matter of fact, the best thing about this book was the original idea of Anteros and the Agape. I've definitely never heard the tale before, and I liked it a lot.

So, what did I have issues with? Curry speaks in a old fashioned way, but it is expected since he was born in another time. But, awkwardly, Chansey speaks the same way. For such a young girl she just kind of had a weird voice, to me. Also, sometimes Curry would utter modern-sounding phrases that just didn't jive with his words from another era.

Towards the end, the book started to remind me a lot of Twilight. Not that this is inherently bad, since I am a Twilight fan...but. of course it has been done to death. This is the first book in a series, so I hope the similarities will wane in the next book.

This is minor, and I know I was reading a indie book, but sometimes there were words completely missing from sentences. Not so much that I couldn't understand what the author meant to say...just a bit annoying, really.

In any event, I adore Curry and his chivalry and I am very excited to see what will happen next, since this book ended on a bit of a cliffhanger! (less)

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Jul 23, 2012 Mary rated it 5 of 5 stars

review on www.booknerdsacrossamerica.com

I hadthis book on my to-read list since I read Georgia Cate's Going Under. I thought the book sounded interesting and it was not going to be the typical vampire meets human girl story.

Curry Brennan was held captive by his maker, Marsala, for over 130 years. Then on the night of the Eclipse he was ready to meet the "True Death" but instead was released through a strange event (you have to read it to believe it). During his escape he was helped by another va...more

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Jul 26, 2012 Lexie rated it 5 of 5 stars

this book was awesome and i could not put it down

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Jul 20, 2012 Krisi Keley added it

Although I don’t think it would be fair for me to give a rated review of this book for the significant reason stated below, I don’t think it’s unfair to let readers know that I certainly can’t call it a fresh or original take on vampires either, as some reviewers have, and this is why:

This (September 2011 published) story of a conflicted and self-despising French (in this case French-American, since born in New Orleans) vampire who has difficulty achieving his “second death” (what at least one a...more Although I don’t think it would be fair for me to give a rated review of this book for the significant reason stated below, I don’t think it’s unfair to let readers know that I certainly can’t call it a fresh or original take on vampires either, as some reviewers have, and this is why:

This (September 2011 published) story of a conflicted and self-despising French (in this case French-American, since born in New Orleans) vampire who has difficulty achieving his “second death” (what at least one author might call “full death”) in which his soul passes on to heaven, who doesn’t desire sexual relationships with mortals but who is tantalized by a mysterious human girl who turns out to be his celestially-made (not angelic per se, but close) soulmate (here, Agápe) who makes him feel more human than he did when human, who inspires in him very unfamiliar physical feelings, and with whom he apparently shares a relationship deeper than that of a wife sounds frightfully similar to a (May 2010 published) novel I’m very, very familiar (one might even suggest personally acquainted) with, although, despite some lines that seem not terribly far short of verbatim in their resemblance to said familiar novel, this version comes across like it could have been written by someone who read, but didn’t really understand (or maybe didn’t agree with), the original. The author’s assertion that the soulmate’s relationship with the vampire is like Christ’s (sacrificial) love for man is not the only seemingly telling allusion besides those above and, though its strange mix of Judeo-Christian ideas with polytheistic religion/mythology gives it an unusual and difficult to comprehend slant, there are still a disturbing number of similarities between this novel and the earlier published one: the vampire’s unusual feelings for the human girl/soulmate, the girl having dreamed of him as a child and her ability to sense his presence, her family dying in a car accident, a vampire brother (only vampirically, rather than literally so, in the other book of which I speak) who is a possible threat to the soulmate, scenes of one person sharing memories with another through touch, etc.

While it’s certainly not impossible that two authors might have a similar overall idea, the specific nature of a number of different similarities, combined with some of the wording, makes this type of coincidental resemblance between two books a little harder to imagine, especially when there are a couple of story elements that also seem to have been closely inspired by yet another, much more famous, vampire book, namely Twilight. Amazing coincidence or not, I have no way of knowing, but it is certainly interesting to note that reviewers of another of this author's books, Going Under, said it was "just like" a 2008 novel called Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles. So, though they say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, it doesn’t really seem that way when a novel is presented as having a whole new concept about vampires, yet sounds strikingly similar to a novel you wrote 15 years ago and had published a year and a half before this one, especially when another book by the same author coincidentally resembles a previously published book.

Because I don’t want this to come across as one writer trying to do any kind of underhanded, stealth self-promo for her own books or for it to seem that I may be being overly-sensitive on what is already the hazy line between somewhat similar ideas in fiction and what are called “substantial similarities,” I haven’t mentioned the name of my own books, but I will include those, as well as some examples of where the similarities, for me, seem either too close or there are too many of them for coincidence, but will put these things under a “spoiler” warning, so readers can choose or choose not to see the name of the other book, compare the similarities and decide for themselves on the subject of coincidence.

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Nov 16, 2011 Beth rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 2011-books

I read this book based on a rec from a Goodreads reader... glad I did.Ü I am really enjoying these indie authors and their creative ideas on paranormal romance. Blood of Anteros was an enjoyable read. I wasn't so sure about it the first few chapters in, but then all of a sudden there was a spark of energy in the writing and I couldn't put it down. I loved reading the story from Curry's POV-we usually get the "human" perspective and I loved having the perspective of the vampire himself. Near the...more

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Dec 12, 2012 CJ rated it 3 of 5 stars

I bought this book because I read and loved Going Under by Georgia Gates, and wondered what her other book was like, plus the product description sounded interesting. Again Georgia writes in a lovely way, and creates an interesting story. As a vampire book, it is different for quite a few reasons but mainly because it is told from the male vampire perspective. You don't often come across that. What also made this book different was the tone it was written in. Given that Curry has been around for...more

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Aug 21, 2012 Shaheen rated it 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

Blood of Anteros surprised me because I wasn’t expecting it to be as intense as it is. Refreshingly told from the perspective of a male vampire, this book is an enjoyable read that captures perfectly the love between Curry and Chansey.

The book begins with the mysterious severing of the bonds that bind Curry to his maker – a vicious vampire whom he hates. Curry spends 21 years learning to assimilate with humans, and finally decides to move into his childhood home, renting with the elderl...more 3.5 stars

Blood of Anteros surprised me because I wasn’t expecting it to be as intense as it is. Refreshingly told from the perspective of a male vampire, this book is an enjoyable read that captures perfectly the love between Curry and Chansey.

The book begins with the mysterious severing of the bonds that bind Curry to his maker – a vicious vampire whom he hates. Curry spends 21 years learning to assimilate with humans, and finally decides to move into his childhood home, renting with the elderly couple who own the house now. When their grand-daughter comes to stay, Curry is afraid that he is a danger to her, young blood being so much more desirable than old blood. However, he finds in Chansey a mystery – while her blood doesn’t attract the vampire within him, something about her makes his long-buried human side emerge. Chansey and Curry are great together, although they have their share of misunderstandings, it’s obvious they genuinely care for one another and I liked that.

While there is little action in the book, and most of it occurs near the end, I did enjoy the plot because it is centred on an interesting mythology. I had hoped that Curry’s scorned maker would make an appearance, but now I think that she is part of a larger story arc, and I had to make do with the sleaze-bag bad guys this book offers. What really drives the book is the romantic aspect between the two protagonists – it is unclear whether they will be able to surmount all the obstacles placed in their way.

It would be impossible for me to review this book without drawing some comparisons with the Twilight saga: similar issues are understandably raised in both works. Although it is clear that any relationship between a mortal and immortal is doomed without Curry turning Chansey, the issue is handled in a similar manner to that in Twilight. This aspect in itself is common in many vampire-oriented novels featuring romance with a mortal, so it did not overly concern me. However, Curry is quite demanding, and although Chansey stands up for her rights most of the time, the imbalance of power in the relationship means that Curry inevitably has the last say. I hope in future books this issue is resolved.

Blood of Anteros is an interesting read featuring an exciting new mythology, and I am looking forward to reading the sequel, Blood Jewel, for a blog tour next week. I recommend this book to those who enjoyed the Twilight saga but are looking for something aimed at a slightly more mature audience and written a little edgier.

A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for review.
You can read more of my reviews at Speculating on SpecFic .(less)

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Aug 02, 2012 Megan rated it 4 of 5 stars

Synopsis:

"I was tantalized by the mystery of her. The leech inside me came out to find prey, but found none in this enigmatic girl. The close proximity of her essence didn’t entice the monster within, so what did that make her? I had more questions than answers, but one thing was unmistakable; although she released me from her embrace, her hold on me remained."

Cruel circumstances turned Curry Brennan into the wretched monster he hates and refuses to accept, but when an expected turn of events re...more Synopsis:

"I was tantalized by the mystery of her. The leech inside me came out to find prey, but found none in this enigmatic girl. The close proximity of her essence didn’t entice the monster within, so what did that make her? I had more questions than answers, but one thing was unmistakable; although she released me from her embrace, her hold on me remained."

Cruel circumstances turned Curry Brennan into the wretched monster he hates and refuses to accept, but when an expected turn of events releases him from the bond of his obsessive maker, he returns to the home he knew 161 years earlier and finds the return of happiness and joy in something he didn’t know existed. Puzzled by his growing attraction to Chansey Leclaire, a human, he is unable to resist the captivating relationship that threatens to reveal his existence as a vampire. He eventually discovers the reason he was destined to find what he didn’t know he searched for and is faced with the cruel realization that the living and the immortal undead will always be separated by one thing. Eternity.
First Thoughts:

I decided to jump on this blog tour because the title just caught my eye as soon as I saw it! Then I read what the book was about and I just knew I had to read it. Its about vampires, and sure I been getting a little sick of them lately, but this sounded like a different spin on things so I wanted to see how it played out.
The Main Character:

Chansey… first, I would like to say that I love that name! She was also a pretty awesome girl. She definitely has been through a lot, with her parents being gone, and her psycho neighbor, but she still had a pretty good head on her shoulders and just took everything in stride.
Love is in the Air:

Curry Brennan… he was perfect book bf material! He was hot (obviously) but he was also super sweet! He didn’t understand what was happening to him, but he knew that he had to protect Chancey as soon as he laid eyes on her. It was also super cute to see him so overwelmhed by the feelings she invoked in him, the author was able to do such a fantastic job of portraying that.
Ending:

AWESOME ending! Was there a cliffhanger? Sure of course there was… but there always is in a great series. The reason this book had such an awesome ending is because we have learned so much… but we are left wanting to learn more… I have fallen in love with all the characters… and I want to hear there stories and how they fit into everything I think I have figured out.
Final Thoughts:

Well, considering I wanted to read this book because the cover was so pretty… I was super surprised at how much I fell in love with it. I will totally be looking forward to the next books in the series! If you are looking for the vampires… but are a little over the whole Twilight phase… this book is what you need!(less)

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Oct 18, 2012 Audrie Cruz-Sealey rated it 3 of 5 stars

This was an ok paranormal YA!

I personally like the Going Under series better but this was still good.

This story follows a vampire named Curry. Curry hates the fact that he is a vampire and loathes his sire, Marsala. Marsala is obsessed with Curry and wants him to idolize her...but he despises her. On the day of an eclipse, Curry breaks free of his bond with Marsala. For some reason, no known to him, he can suddenly walk in the daylight and no longer needs blood to survive, unlike all other vampi...more

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Dec 26, 2011 Cynthia rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2011-challenge

It is true, the world has Gods. Even the evil ones know how to worship that which is above them, and with greater power. Every being knows how to plead for what they so desire, especially when what is being desired is so unattainable. It is the desires of Curry and of his maker Marsala, that create the happenings for Chansey. Her destiny is set by this pair on a specific night. One with such malice and evil intent, Chansey could be viewed as a curse. A curse to one, a heart's wish to the other.

S...more It is true, the world has Gods. Even the evil ones know how to worship that which is above them, and with greater power. Every being knows how to plead for what they so desire, especially when what is being desired is so unattainable. It is the desires of Curry and of his maker Marsala, that create the happenings for Chansey. Her destiny is set by this pair on a specific night. One with such malice and evil intent, Chansey could be viewed as a curse. A curse to one, a heart's wish to the other.

She is a woman. A young, beautiful, and brilliant woman. What makes her so special? She is born for him, for only him, and as his destiny. She is meant to be his completely and entirely. She is a gift from a God, and he can not deny the gift. She is his agape.

Requited Love.

Their worlds collide but not without a dreaming of and the desiring there of. It is the wish that the heart makes and it is his wish. On that day, on the day she is born, he is free from the evils that have set him apart from being the creature, or rather the man that he so wants to be.

Blood of Asteros is written in a voice of the mid 1800's and with the vampiric charm most vampire fans want and are use to. These vampires are flesh eating, blood drinking monsters and do not tempt their fates to be close to humans. Evil and good is somewhat separated here and the good are making efforts to not kill human beings. While evil holds back on nothing. Curry knows his limitations as the true monster that he is, however it is Chansey and her being that gives Curry more human instincts and a more humanistic being. What he begins to crave and desire is new and much more human.

Curry's character keeps the story held tightly in the century that he was made, and born into the vampire world. The other character's such as Solomon, give a more modern voice and tone to this tale.

Playfully romantic, alluring and mesmerizing.

My Favorite Quote
"Marsala isn't the one that's going to keep you and Chansey apart. It's you."

I really enjoyed this book. I was completely taken back with what was happening in the beginning. A really awesome opening with a total eclipse in Mexico. The mythology made it very interesting and the evil of Marsala was intriguing. I want more of her. Really brilliant! I think this is going to be an awesome series and I am looking forward to reading book 2. (less)

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Jul 29, 2012 Apzmarshl rated it 3 of 5 stars

This book was very clean which totally surprised me, for vampire lit!
The story involved a southern vampire, turned by a woman he hated. He spends years wanting to break their bond to each other. Finally, although he does not realize it, his agape is born. An agapè is like a soul mate. After that his life begins to change in ways he did not know where possible for a vampire.
This was a very fast read that ended very abruptly. At the beginning the narrative felt like the main character was giving a...more

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Sep 21, 2012 Marissa rated it 5 of 5 stars

A charming new take on vampires and their beloved. Aside from it's charm and chivalry, I found the character's names themselves very intriguing. Curry, Marsala, Chansey, Grady, Sebastian, Solomon. I don't know what it is, but I was curious to get to know the characters better just because of their unusual names. It's a fast paced read because you find yourself getting anxious to know what happens next. I couldn't put it down and had to buy the second book IMMEDIATELY after finishing the first.

F...more

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Nov 13, 2011 Jillian rated it 4 of 5 stars

This is def one of the best vampire romance books I've read in a LONG time. There's too many of them out there and most of them are just repetitive knock offs.

I love the complex relationship between Curry and Chansey. They don't just meet and fall in love like it's the easiest thing in the world. There's lots of drama that has you going up and down, which I really dig. At times, I really wanted to choke Curry, but in the end, I love him and I want him for myself.

And how did the author come up w...more

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Blood of Anteros (The Vampire Agápe #1)

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