From Lambda Literary Award winning author Felice Stevens comes a sexy paranormal stand-alone romance.
A vampire who’s lost everything meets a man who has nothing to lose.
For centuries, Massimo D’Alba, banished prince of the Fold, has wandered through life frozen in darkness and pain. Betrayed by his younger, power-hungry brother, he’s existed for centuries but not lived. A rain-soaked night brings smart-mouthed New Yorker, Damion Avery, to his doorstep and suddenly he’s riding spin bikes, shopping for yoga pants, eating ice cream…and falling in love.
Damion Avery can’t figure out why Prince Tall, Dark, and Incredibly Sexy wants him as his personal assistant, but he’s not going to second-guess his good luck. Even though he has to work all night and sleep during the day, the job is too good to be true. But where does Massimo sneak off to in the dead of night? Is he a spy, an assassin, or something else? And what’s with those glowing purple eyes? Damion knows he shouldn’t fall for his boss. But Damion was never one to follow the rules.
When duty calls him home, Massimo must return to save his kingdom, forcing a life-changing decision: leave Damion behind forever, or reveal his deepest, darkest secret to the man who has become his everything, who owns a part of Massimo he’d thought gone forever…his heart.
Felice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Night Prince is a stand alone vampire romance by Felice Stevens. This was such a wonderful surprise from an author I’ve come to love. Everything I’ve read of hers so far has been contemporary. Little did she realize I also have quite a love of all things vampire so my day was made when this book showed up.
Massimo D’Alba is a vampire. His home, his realm is called The Fold. He is one of two sons of the king. A king who has grown cold and cruel since the death of their mother, the queen. It is against the rule of the king to ever leave the Fold, to venture to “The Outside” where humans exist. Unlike his father and brother, Massimo has a kind soul. So when a human accidentally wanders into their territory, it is natural instinct for him to protect him. For this crime, Massimo is forever banished from the only life he has ever known and loses his right to the throne as the eldest son.
Life has not been kind to Damion Avery. He has never known love. He has one best friend and his friend’s husband. He’s just lost his job and he’s out in the pouring rain. But the kindness of a stranger will soon change his life.
“There is beauty in the night.”
Damion finds himself working as a personal assistant to the most beautiful man he’s ever seen, a man with glowing purple eyes. He not only has the job of his dreams, he is allowed to live in his beautiful home and eat better than he’s ever eaten. The only draw back was that they work all night and sleep during the day, a schedule he was able to acclimate to easily after a couple of weeks. All he really knows about his boss is that he claims to be a prince, banished from his country. But he has no idea what country or why he was banished.
Massimo shouldn’t allow himself to be attracted to his PA. He’s human. He knows nothing of the existence of Massimo’s kind. But as time marches on, both of their feelings grow for one another. Massimo finds himself doing things he never thought he’d do, and he’s enjoying himself. In time, the thought of being apart from each other is actually painful, even though neither has acted on their attraction.
“You’re the music of my soul, the song of my blood. My everything. My always.”
When the situation changes back in The Fold, Massimo is duty bound to go home, to help his people. But how can he leave Damion behind? This human who has come to mean so much to him?
I loved everything about this book. Both Massimo and Damion had lost so much. And in each other, they both found something they never thought they’d have, love. But, fate has a destiny planned for these two, one that they will have to fight for. Is Massimo willing to risk Damion’s safety to keep him at his side. And is Damion willing to leave everything he knows for a life in a realm he never even knew existed? Even though I’ve loved every book I’ve read of Felice Steven’s, after reading this, I truly hope she catches the vampire bug again because I enjoyed this so much.
Liked: - The take on vampire lore - The Mates aspect - The pacing was good too.
Niggles: - I didn't really FEEL the connection between Massimo and Damion. - After all the build up of the return to the "fold", it was over pretty quickly. - Some plot holes and a bit of unexplained things.
The audio was good enough. Kale Williams did a good job.
So many ghosts, how unexpected, in a stand-alone vampire novel. Its almost like the second gen werewolf and A Christmas Story movies. Where ghost of your past dulled out advice or insight.
The main couple, we'll of course you want them together. Their steamy scenes are lovely.
Side characters were done dirty!
The final boss fight could have been padded a out more.
This world....I would like to visit again. Author was on to something here! But first, let there be more dragons.
I hate writing negative reviews these days, but this read like a tepid, melodramatic script. It felt like it was written from a template, and the dialogue felt forced and a bit sophomoric. My feelings while I read the story were something akin to tepid, or lukewarm. Nothing exciting here, not even the big final battle. What a letdown.
I think this is also a case where the author is just not for me.
I really enjoyed this. While PNR isn't normally what Felice Stevens writes, there is still the sweet and sexy storytelling that I enjoy about her contemporary books intertwined with vampires, ghosts and a couple of surprises. No spoilers here!
I immediately was rooting for vampire Prince Massimo after my heart was broken for him by the Prologue. He's been alone for centuries and rarely leaves his NYC home other than to feed, his only company being his faithful valet. Damion seems to never quite have things going his way for long. He's smart, sweet and sassy, but has trouble keeping a job. When his only friends and roommates leave the country, it's downhill from there until he runs into a stranger who will start him on his path to a life he never could have imagined.
While there is a slow burn between Massimo and Damion, it was a joy to watch them connect. Damion tries his best to get his brooding boss to lighten up, while Massimo is just doing his best to hide his attraction to Damion as well as his true nature. These two are really perfect for each other. I liked how everything played out when Damion finally finds out about Massimo and what happens after that.
There are definitely a few side characters that could have a story and I would love to return to the Fold to see how things progress. Even if you're not a fan of PNR, but you like Felice Stevens' books, you should definitely pick this one up.
Felice Stevens' jaunt into the paranormal realm was mostly a success for me.
I liked the set up, with vampires living in a separate world, hidden from humanity. I liked both MCs, they had a connection from the off which started in friendship and then turned into more.
I liked the sense of found family in both the friends Damion had acquired during his pretty rough life, and in Massimo's loyal servant Claudio.
Which brings me to one of the things which I really didn't like and which peed me off tbh.
Without spoiling the plot, I'm pretty sure there could have been many other avenues explored for 'loose ends' than the one which was chosen.
It seemed purely there as a means to make Massimo be the only future Damion could have, rather than one he chose in full knowledge of what he'd be giving up.
The other thing which stopped my rating from being higher was an element which occurs right at the heart of the tension point and didn't quite have the effect on me I think it was supposed to do.
It felt a little overblown and only there for what very much felt like a Deus Ex moment.
Still, that's not to say I didn't enjoy the book, I did, it had a compelling storyline which I was intrigued by.
I'm not sure if there will be more in the world or if it was a one off, but it stood up well on its own.
Here when I thought Felice would never write PNR, she came with the sexy vampire, Massimo and his love interest, his new PA, Damion. Night Prince was a sexy slow burn romance I couldn't put down until I knew that Massimo and Damion getting their HEA. I loved Damion and his self confidence around his boss, the banter and the way they're towards each other and how easily their relationship flows. I am normally not a vampire reader for more than three or so years, but I can't just let Massimo and Damion passed me without knowing their story. I was glad that I read Night Prince and can't wait for another surprise stories from Felice. Or another sexy vamps? Never say never. I learned my lessons.
Amazing! 🥰 I wasn’t ready for it to end, I had hoped for more time with Massimo the new king and his consort Damion as the couple bringing the people of the fold into the new age of things. That could probably be another book all on it's own! (hopefully) The slow build between the couple was perfect! Hopefully we can look forward to more from Massimo and Damion trying to turn the fold around. ;-D
This was an enjoyable read. I liked the MCs, especially Damian, his snarky personality, made me smile. Massimo was actually a sweetheart, but I did find his character a little cliched at times. Still, on the whole, it flowed well and I found myself wanting to keep reading to find out what would happen. I found some of the secondary characters quite interesting. Three and a half stars.
I loved Massimo and Damion’s story! It’s got the intrigue and danger waiting for Massimo back in the vampire world, as well as a deeply emotional slow burn romance that captured my heart. Massimo and Damion seamlessly grow from strangers, to friends and coworkers, and finally, becoming each other’s everything. As the love and trust between them builds, Massimo finds himself having to return to the Fold to help his people. How will Damion handle the biggest mystery behind his Prince?
Night Prince is a terrific paranormal, human/vampire, boss/employee romance!
I really can’t rate this book higher. And I really wanted to love it.
Plot holes I could fall into in places, and uneven and fantastical (even for a PNR book) world-building spoiled this for me, as did what felt like a rushed finish.
Sadly, I didn’t get so much as a whiff of sexual tension or devotion between the two MCs either.
Disappointed, because I do love a vampire novel. This one might be for you, but it wasn’t for me.
A departure from this author usual contemporary MM romance, this foray into PNR and the world of vampires is a sweet, sexy read. Massimo and Damion work together quite nicely (literally and figuratively) and the push/pull romance set against Massimo's huge secret and Damion's need for control in his world works well.
The protagonist in this story is Massimo's brother, a vile creature, obese on power and in many ways the epitome of the seven deadly sins. I do wish more time had been spent examining the Fold and the events that occur there however I do need acknowledge that this is first and foremost a romance, and therefore the focus of this story needs to be on Massimo and Damion and how their journey flows.
There is definitely opportunity for more on this world, I'd love to see the lovely, loyal Claudio find his HEA.
This book was amusingly bad. It reminded me of one those 70s horror films with the bad graphics and cheesy dialogue. I wouldn’t recommend this book to anyone, but I must admit I found myself amused by this book. The cheesiness was on a whole new level.
A first for me, reading a paranormal romance by Felice Stevens. I usually stick to her contemporary m/m’s but this was really good. I enjoyed the slow build-up of Massimo and Damien’s relationship. The UST was there but not the typical “take me, I’m yours” vibe I get from other Pnr romances. Typical me switched between reading and listening to the audio, but in the end, just stuck with the audio because Massimo’s voice was so sexy.🔥
I have so many feelings about this book. All good. So good that I don't know how to find the right words to convey just how much I loved it.
Let's start by saying that I'm a huge fan of vampires so when I found out Felice was releasing a vampire book, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. I couldn't wait to see her take on the genre and I think she nailed it!
Massimo and Damion are opposites but they fit together perfectly. They come from very different worlds and although they try to ignore their attraction, it's inevitable. I felt so many different emotions while reading this book...from anger to joy, heartache to happiness, sorrow to joy and everything in between. I was shocked by some of the things that happened and I was moved to tears by others.
Night Prince is a wonderfully woven story of eternal love. It had everything I want in a vampire book plus all the swoony romance that I crave from Felice's books.
I want to visit the Fold because a) who wouldn’t want to meet a sexy, vampire prince and b) it has even more sexy vampires. This was a really fun vampire book. It has action, oodles of romance and steam, true friendships and wonderful characters. “I am water to quench your thirst. Air you need to breathe. Food to satisfy your hunger. I am yours.” Swoon, these two warmed my heart. I really liked how Damion and Massimo steadily progressed from friends to more with honesty and respect on both sides and that neither haphazardly jumped into anything. That’s not to say there were no surprises for this pair though. Quite a few unexpected twists occur during their journey to find love ever after and I expect once you visit the Fold m, you’ll want to stay.
Oh wow. I'm almost at a loss for words at how AMAZING this book was. The fact that I was up until 4am reading it straight through should speak for itself. Vampire stories are not what I typically read, but I love Felice's books and knew I had to try it. I'm so glad I did. As with all her books, the writing pulls you in immediately and you can't help but fall in love with the characters. There are a few spots where you'll need to grab a tissue while reading, but those tears will be worth it. I hated finishing the book & having to say goodbye to Damion & Massimo.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
NIGHT PRINCE is currently a standalone but I am desperately hoping Ms Stevens will return to the Fold in the near future as there are so many characters I want to see happy endings for!
Massimo is banished from his father's kingdom to the human world, where he spends decades/centuries learning how to fit in. During that time, he keeps himself to himself, with only Claudio finding him and keeping him company. All that changes when Damion bursts into his life. But then other changes happen, and Massimo is pulled back into the Fold. Will Damion be with him, or will his fears overtake him?
Massimo and Damion are fantastic characters, that spark off each other in a multitude of ways. It is hot and steamy in the bedroom, but their relationship is so much more than that. The Guardians are not prepared to take any nonsense from either of them, and I love how they changed to English when they knew Damion was awake.
There are a whole host of supporting characters that I need stories for. And one of the couples is already married! Oh, and they're dead too. Now, I sort of figured something would happen, but not what did, which blindsided me. Or maybe it was the tears in my eyes? Whatever. What I am trying to say is that this story sweeps you along in the arms of multiple characters.
Paranormal? Check. Romance? Check. Emotional? Check. Sassy and steamy? Check. Yep, it sounds like a Felice Stevens book to me, and as such, do you honestly think I'm NOT going to recommend it?!
I loved this book but, PLEASE, for the love of all that's holy, PLEASE return to the Fold!!!! I need more.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books! Nov 3, 2021
But what started off as a good story seemed to turn into what could best describe as what a teenage girl would think every story should have in it, regardless of point, sense making, or I don’t really have the words. It became this mash up of fantasy, vampire, mushy love story that just didn’t go together. It’s like any random crap that popped into the authors head should be added to the story, even though it didn’t go together. I don’t want to give spoilers so I can’t list the plot issues, but if you read it , it’s like several different parts were put into the story just because.
Man this wow I mean the overall story could've been okay but then there was talking mist. So I tried to ignore that then their mate bites become jewel encrusted seriously what? Magic neck jewels ok then... So then there's the end when the new vampire gets his new special ability just in time to save the day by shifting into a freaking dragon and eating the bad guy seriously vampire dragon shifter just wtf. Also I'm guessing vampire horses are a thing because dude had been gone for like 500 years but his horse is still alive....
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
How do you go wrong? Sexy vampires. Felice Steven's romantic words. Sexy times. I mean, this book has everything I'm hoping for in a Felice Steven's story. Great world-building and sizzling heat between our guys.
How about a fun little excerpt from Night Prince to whet your appetite?
"I do not own you, Damion. You work for me. Second of all, I think that is a good idea. Are you sure they will have what you need?” Damion snorted. “They’re only the biggest store in the world. I think I’ll find something.” His blue eyes twinkled, and Massimo fought that internal war that made him want to grab Damion and kiss him, while knowing it was wrong. It was exhausting to fight this attraction, and instead of it waning as he’d hoped, it was gaining strength. Damion snapped his fingers. “Hey. I have an idea. Why don’t you come with me? You can help me pick out stuff and tell me what looks good. I’m hopeless like that, and you have a great sense of style.” Massimo was hesitant. “You want me to go clothes shopping? I’ve never done that before. I wouldn’t know what to do.” Damion’s eyes bugged out, and he stood mute for a moment. “You’re kidding. You’ve never been in a department store?” Massimo shrugged. “Why would I? I have a tailor come and make my suits and shirts. Anything else I need, Claudio orders for me. Stores are crowded with people.” He made a face. “Why would I want to go?” “Because you can try stuff on you might not know you even want. I love impulse-buying. Please? Come with me?” It was pointless to try and resist those big blue eyes. And that was how Massimo D’Alba, prince of the Fold and one of the most powerful vampires in the world, found himself in a dressing room in Macy’s, wearing a hot-pink T-shirt that said: Yoga is my superpower, and an indecently tight pair of gray sweat pants. “I think not.” He exited the dressing room to show Damion, who stood in front of the three-way mirror in a tank top the color of his eyes and biker shorts. When their eyes met, Damion’s jaw dropped, and he spun around. Massimo shifted under his heated stare, and his cock hardened. Mortified, he took a step away, praying Damion hadn’t noticed. “I can’t believe you made me try this on.” “Oh, loosen up. Lots of guys wear this when they exercise.” Damion cocked his head. “You look good. Really good.” “I look as ridiculous as I feel. I’ll stick to what I have, thank you. And we came here for you, not me.” Damion turned to his own mirror, and Massimo’s gaze fixed on his perfect ass, hugged by the second-skin material of the biker shorts. Massimo had enough trouble with the damn spin bike; did he need to be tortured by Damion wearing next to nothing while they exercised? Having a hard-on while spinning was a singularly painful experience he tried to avoid.
1 uhmm i was an assistant manager and no way in hell would i suggest to a millionaire to use Google calendar when you can have Microsoft office for like 5€/month
2 Kardashians...nope with a big P !
3 Asking your dead lover angered how you could find a new love after you lived for millenniums ... ask a 14 year old ... *facepalm
This had potential i taught ... i blame it on the blurb ... DNF 13%
Wow.. I had very high expectations for this book but it did not live up to them. I was mostly very frustrated and couldn't wait for it to be finished. The world building was okay but there was no rhyme or reason to these magical abilities they had. We have vampires and ghosts and guardians and no explanation as to how the magic or powers of the vamps work. It just felt very sloppy.