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Elemental Mysteries #1
A Hidden Fire
"No secret stays hidden forever."
A phone call from an old friend sets Dr. Giovanni Vecchio back on the path of a mystery he'd abandoned years before. He never expected a young librarian could hold the key to the search, nor could he have expected the danger she would attract. Now he and Beatrice De Novo will follow a twisted maze that leads from the archives of a university library, through the fires of Renaissance Florence, and toward a confrontation they never could have predicted.
A Hidden Fire is a paranormal mystery/romance for adult readers. It is the first book in the Elemental Mysteries Series.
A phone call from an old friend sets Dr. Giovanni Vecchio back on the path of a mystery he'd abandoned years before. He never expected a young librarian could hold the key to the search, nor could he have expected the danger she would attract. Now he and Beatrice De Novo will follow a twisted maze that leads from the archives of a university library, through the fires of Renaissance Florence, and toward a confrontation they never could have predicted.
A Hidden Fire is a paranormal mystery/romance for adult readers. It is the first book in the Elemental Mysteries Series.
320 pages, Nook
First published October 13, 2011
3294 people are currently reading
28669 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Hunter
83 books6,264 followersELIZABETH HUNTER is an eleven-time USA Today bestselling author of romance, contemporary fantasy, and paranormal mystery. Based in Central California and Addis Ababa, she travels extensively to write fantasy fiction exploring world mythologies, history, and the universal bonds of love, friendship, and family.
She has published over fifty works of fiction and sold over two million books world-wide. She is the author of the Elemental Mysteries, the Irin Chronicles, the Cambio Springs Mysteries, and other works of fiction.
She has published over fifty works of fiction and sold over two million books world-wide. She is the author of the Elemental Mysteries, the Irin Chronicles, the Cambio Springs Mysteries, and other works of fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,172 reviews
August 10, 2013
3.5 stars. This is a spoiler-free review regarding plot, but if you don't want to know what type of "beings" these guys are (I say who cares, you find out fairly early in the book), read no further. *cue ominous music*
The dialogue (written or spoken) was what sold me on this book. Was there a mystery happening? If so, I didn't really care. I much preferred the character interaction to the mystery of the letters. All of the characters seemed to enjoy playing off of one another, which was entertaining to witness.
This was a decent effort for a self-published book. The writing was more polished than I'd been expecting. I did catch a few typos and repetitive gestures (such as smirking, eye rolling, and eyebrow wiggling), but the overall execution was impressive for a first-in-series book.
But talk about a sense of deja vu...I had to stop my read and do a quick search in order to make sure I wasn't reading Twilight fan fiction. I didn't find anything, so I'm assuming this is not fan fiction for now. Before you start to freak out and think I'm going to say this is a Twilight copy, it's not that extreme. I found more similarities between Obsidian and Twilight than I did with this book.
It was really only one scene which made me do a double take. Tell me though that this doesn't remind you of a certain scene which takes place in the forest.
You saw it too, right?
But hey, at least Gio (the lead male from this book) is not a flipping vegetarian. He has no qualms taking a bite out of a willing female, which is how I prefer my vampires to behave. And I thought Beatrice (or B) was a fun character. She's slightly off-kilter and kind of spunky, plus she wears combat boots to work at the library.
While I liked Gio fine, he wasn't the big draw in my opinion. I was all team Carwyn (not that we're needing teams, since there is no love triangle). Of course I'm going to like the old-as-dirt vampire who acted like a prankster kid. Duh. That's my kind ofperson vampire. I had to laugh at the vampires-watching-pro-wrestling scene. It was quite amusing.
As we often see with UF series, there was an equal amount of emphasis put on the action and danger as there was the romance. I wouldn't have minded a little more sexual tension, but since UF series tend to drag out the tension over the course of several books, I'm guessing that we'll see more of this in the future. But at least for now, there are some other points of intrigue and danger to keep us occupied.
I enjoyed the read enough to keep on with the series, but I still think there are a few details which could be fine-tuned (mainly with some of the transitions being less confusing). As with most series, there is generally a greater payout the longer you stick with the books, so if we only go up from here, I think this is going to work out nicely.
So far, so good. I look forward to see what's up next!
'Do you like Gio? Check yes or no.'
She wrote back 'How can you be this childish after a thousand years?'
The dialogue (written or spoken) was what sold me on this book. Was there a mystery happening? If so, I didn't really care. I much preferred the character interaction to the mystery of the letters. All of the characters seemed to enjoy playing off of one another, which was entertaining to witness.
"Should I be concerned that one of your first questions is how to kill me?"
This was a decent effort for a self-published book. The writing was more polished than I'd been expecting. I did catch a few typos and repetitive gestures (such as smirking, eye rolling, and eyebrow wiggling), but the overall execution was impressive for a first-in-series book.
But talk about a sense of deja vu...I had to stop my read and do a quick search in order to make sure I wasn't reading Twilight fan fiction. I didn't find anything, so I'm assuming this is not fan fiction for now. Before you start to freak out and think I'm going to say this is a Twilight copy, it's not that extreme. I found more similarities between Obsidian and Twilight than I did with this book.
It was really only one scene which made me do a double take. Tell me though that this doesn't remind you of a certain scene which takes place in the forest.
"You--you're fast."
He nodded. "I'm very fast. And very strong."
"Your skin...it's pale. Really pale. And I've never seen you during the day."
"And you never will," he murmured in the pulsing blue light.
Her breathing picked up as a growing suspicion began to take shape. "I've never seen you eat or drink...anything."
You saw it too, right?
But hey, at least Gio (the lead male from this book) is not a flipping vegetarian. He has no qualms taking a bite out of a willing female, which is how I prefer my vampires to behave. And I thought Beatrice (or B) was a fun character. She's slightly off-kilter and kind of spunky, plus she wears combat boots to work at the library.
While I liked Gio fine, he wasn't the big draw in my opinion. I was all team Carwyn (not that we're needing teams, since there is no love triangle). Of course I'm going to like the old-as-dirt vampire who acted like a prankster kid. Duh. That's my kind of
"Use the damn folding chair!"
As we often see with UF series, there was an equal amount of emphasis put on the action and danger as there was the romance. I wouldn't have minded a little more sexual tension, but since UF series tend to drag out the tension over the course of several books, I'm guessing that we'll see more of this in the future. But at least for now, there are some other points of intrigue and danger to keep us occupied.
"Go to hell."
A flicker of madness crept into his eyes. "Already there."
I enjoyed the read enough to keep on with the series, but I still think there are a few details which could be fine-tuned (mainly with some of the transitions being less confusing). As with most series, there is generally a greater payout the longer you stick with the books, so if we only go up from here, I think this is going to work out nicely.
So far, so good. I look forward to see what's up next!
October 25, 2017
Actual rating: 1.5 stars.
I should have DNFed this one preemptively the minute I saw that somepeople of despicable book taste of my friends had shelved it as "cute" and "mushy."
This book is (check allthat apply):
✘ Boring.
✘ Predictable.
✘ As juvenile as can be.
✘ Flatter than my favorite herd of ironing boards.
✘ Packed with dull, uninteresting characters who act like a bunch of 16-year-olds.
✘ Graced with a supposedly strong, clever female MC who is naught but a silly wimp.
✘ So repetitiveand badly written it made my lovely little head hurt.
✘ Crammed with ridiculously cliched, high-school level lovey dovey crap.
✘ Stuffed with an inordinate amount of eye rolling, winking, smirking, eyebrow wiggling/cocking/whatever.
✘ Filled with fascinating descriptions about the male MC's wondrously amazing body and hypnotizing blue-green eyes (or where they green-blue? I forget).
✘ A little allergy-inducing.
The end.
Oh, and by the way:
I should have DNFed this one preemptively the minute I saw that some
This book is (check all
✘ Boring.
✘ Predictable.
✘ As juvenile as can be.
✘ Flatter than my favorite herd of ironing boards.
✘ Packed with dull, uninteresting characters who act like a bunch of 16-year-olds.
✘ Graced with a supposedly strong, clever female MC who is naught but a silly wimp.
✘ So repetitive
✘ Crammed with ridiculously cliched, high-school level lovey dovey crap.
✘ Stuffed with an inordinate amount of eye rolling, winking, smirking, eyebrow wiggling/cocking/whatever.
✘ Filled with fascinating descriptions about the male MC's wondrously amazing body and hypnotizing blue-green eyes (or where they green-blue? I forget).
✘ A little allergy-inducing.
The end.
Oh, and by the way:
October 19, 2017
Ah, the book that started it all. It's been over five years since this book was published. FIVE YEARS? How did that happen?
I still love this book. I still love Giovanni and Beatrice. I still love the world this book began. I love book-loving vampires...
(I'm only going with Gandy bc he's a reader favorite and... glasses. Ah, who am I kidding? He's super hot.)
And librarians who are not impressed...
...with your specialness.
Also FIRE.
And twisty, sneaky villains.
And all sorts of fun stuff.
Yeah, still love this book. Still love this world. Still love mysterious men and old books. Whiskey tastings and secret kisses.
*sigh*
December 16, 2016
My Beatrice and Giovanni:
Eventful story about young libarian Beatrice De Novo and mysterious Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is amazing introduction into this paranormal series. I loved it and I cannot wait to read more!
I love mysterious, unreadable heroes who keep to themselves. Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is one of them. Well educated and perfect gentleman. Self-confident, but he never came off as arrogant jerk. And there was so much more to him. It took me long time to partially figure him out and I'm sure there is plenty of other things I still don't know about him yet. He has became one of my favourite bookish characters!
Beatrice De Novo was intriguing character herself. Charming and intelligent. I really liked her boldness. Still, she was too stubborn, too passionate, never seeing things from others people's perspective. Sometimes age difference between her and Giovanni showed, and Giovanni had to put Beatrice to her place. At least he was never a jerk about it.
I have to mention that I loved chemistry between Giovanni and Beatrice. Their mutual attraction was electrifying!
A Hidden Fire is SLOW BURN kind of story. I'm not oppose to reading nicely written insta-love book, but "slow burn" has always been my preference. Gio and Beatrice formed weird friendship at first and than it gradually developped into something more...
I really like writing style of this author. It has some mysterious quality into it with hints of poetics here and there. It is really beautiful. Banters between hero and heroine were entertaining, over storyline very captivating and adventurous. I'm already looking forward to next book in the series!
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
Eventful story about young libarian Beatrice De Novo and mysterious Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is amazing introduction into this paranormal series. I loved it and I cannot wait to read more!
I love mysterious, unreadable heroes who keep to themselves. Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is one of them. Well educated and perfect gentleman. Self-confident, but he never came off as arrogant jerk. And there was so much more to him. It took me long time to partially figure him out and I'm sure there is plenty of other things I still don't know about him yet. He has became one of my favourite bookish characters!
Beatrice De Novo was intriguing character herself. Charming and intelligent. I really liked her boldness. Still, she was too stubborn, too passionate, never seeing things from others people's perspective. Sometimes age difference between her and Giovanni showed, and Giovanni had to put Beatrice to her place. At least he was never a jerk about it.
I have to mention that I loved chemistry between Giovanni and Beatrice. Their mutual attraction was electrifying!
A Hidden Fire is SLOW BURN kind of story. I'm not oppose to reading nicely written insta-love book, but "slow burn" has always been my preference. Gio and Beatrice formed weird friendship at first and than it gradually developped into something more...
I really like writing style of this author. It has some mysterious quality into it with hints of poetics here and there. It is really beautiful. Banters between hero and heroine were entertaining, over storyline very captivating and adventurous. I'm already looking forward to next book in the series!
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
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December 2, 2011
Okay -- are you listening to me??? READ THIS BOOK!
I got an email from a very good friend. She said, try this book. She and I read some of the same stuff, but not always, so I was like okay. found it on B&N for $2.99, so why not. I bought it a few weeks ago and kept thinking, I really need to read this so I can tell Tam how I like it.
AWESOME!! I loved Gio. Loved Gio. Beatrice was someone I'd like and trust. The development of these characters was really nice. I really can't say too much, or I'll spoil the story, but if you like romance, paranormal, but not over the top, and romance, you'll like this book.
You have two characters trying to work their way to each other, but stuff keeps getting in the way. Know that old saying, "can't get out of their own way", well you have a bit of it in this book.
The story moves along nicely... a good pace, but it really doesn't matter because you won't be able to put this down. Thank the stars the next one is due out in December. I would even recommend this book to young adult readers. It is romantic, but not all the spice. Very nice.
Who would I compare this to? Maybe Karen Marie Moning's fae series, but not so dark. I'm probably the only person left in the world who has not read the Twilight series, so not sure about this. The characters were all very adult. It also put me in mind of Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code -- just a bit.
I can't encourage you strongly enough, really, give this book a try. The price is right and I guarantee you won't be sorry.
Happy Reading!
I got an email from a very good friend. She said, try this book. She and I read some of the same stuff, but not always, so I was like okay. found it on B&N for $2.99, so why not. I bought it a few weeks ago and kept thinking, I really need to read this so I can tell Tam how I like it.
AWESOME!! I loved Gio. Loved Gio. Beatrice was someone I'd like and trust. The development of these characters was really nice. I really can't say too much, or I'll spoil the story, but if you like romance, paranormal, but not over the top, and romance, you'll like this book.
You have two characters trying to work their way to each other, but stuff keeps getting in the way. Know that old saying, "can't get out of their own way", well you have a bit of it in this book.
The story moves along nicely... a good pace, but it really doesn't matter because you won't be able to put this down. Thank the stars the next one is due out in December. I would even recommend this book to young adult readers. It is romantic, but not all the spice. Very nice.
Who would I compare this to? Maybe Karen Marie Moning's fae series, but not so dark. I'm probably the only person left in the world who has not read the Twilight series, so not sure about this. The characters were all very adult. It also put me in mind of Dan Brown's Da Vinci Code -- just a bit.
I can't encourage you strongly enough, really, give this book a try. The price is right and I guarantee you won't be sorry.
Happy Reading!
August 27, 2017
1.5 stars
Contains minor spoilers and complaining and it's mostly for me to remember why I didn't like it.
I'm not sure I read the same book everyone else has and I'm feeling terribly left out..
Almost all my friends that read this gave it 5-4 stars. I don't know why. I found it so incredibly boring. I nearly fell asleep reading it more times than I can count. Literally nothing happens until 70% and when some action does happen, the strategy of it is something a brash teen would do and not hundred/thousand year old vampires. Barge and charge and consequently lose.
To my safety gang:
Is there a HFN/HEA: Major Spoiler:
Quite clearly this is a case of me not you. Don't let me stop you from giving this a try.
Contains minor spoilers and complaining and it's mostly for me to remember why I didn't like it.
I'm not sure I read the same book everyone else has and I'm feeling terribly left out..
Almost all my friends that read this gave it 5-4 stars. I don't know why. I found it so incredibly boring. I nearly fell asleep reading it more times than I can count. Literally nothing happens until 70% and when some action does happen, the strategy of it is something a brash teen would do and not hundred/thousand year old vampires. Barge and charge and consequently lose.
To my safety gang:
Is there a HFN/HEA: Major Spoiler:
Quite clearly this is a case of me not you. Don't let me stop you from giving this a try.
September 15, 2017
First read 25th May 2013. First read rating was ★★★★★.
Re-read 20th May 2015. My opinion hasn't changed still ★★★★★.
3rd time read 15th September 2017 and guess what? Still hasn’t changed. ★★★★★.
New review
With all vamp books I’m not always a fan of the fang. I wanted a different take. I was getting fed up with the Anita Blake series which sucked lemons and after 4 years still does IMO. This series is a hit for me every single time. With each reread I still find things that can surprise me which I hadn’t noticed before.
I found this gem and was hooked from the first page onwards. 5 "Where I love, there is my homeland." Stars.
The man stole down the hallway, his footsteps echoing in the dimly lit basement of the library. He made his way quietly, brushing aside the dark hair that fell into his eyes as he looked.
Houston, Texas.
Beatrice "B" De Novo is finishing her studies in Information Science when one evening in the library she meets the elusive, mysterious arse Dr. Giovanni "Gio" Vecchio who is translating a manuscript.
At first he doesn’t tell B what he is but soon things don’t add up and so he lets her in on his secret.
He is Batman.
Kidding.
He is a vampire. With the setup that Ms. Hunter has created each vampire can manipulate one of the four elements be it fire, earth, wind and water. Gio is a fire vampire and he needs to have great strength to control his element they are rare and end up extra crispy.
A tentative friendship grows but Gio uses Beatrice to his own advantage. To find what was taken from him a very long time. His destroyed library isn’t his only problem though. Beatrice's father is very much alive. And Gio’s “son” is a certifiable wanker or needs to be burnt all the way to hell.
There are romance elements to the book but it is slow burn as their story continues throughout four books. But at the moment there is just too much up in the air and B’s youth speaks for her that Gio wants forever but for B it might only be an infatuation.
The chemistry between the main characters is strong and believable as I said slow burn romance. But Gio treats Beatrice like a child or only told her half-truths which really did annoy me.
It involves mystery of missing books, a sired son Lorenzo who has more than one screw loose. I’ll leave it at that as there is a lot more to the story. The secondary characters Carwyn and Tenzin as well as Casper and Isadora are beautifully done.
It’s not just the main characters but also the secondary characters and I can’t wait to read more about Carwyn who is an earth vampire and Tenzin who is a wind vampire. 2017 will be the year where we get the full length Ben & Tiny novel and I can’t frigging wait.
Re-read 20th May 2015. My opinion hasn't changed still ★★★★★.
3rd time read 15th September 2017 and guess what? Still hasn’t changed. ★★★★★.
New review
With all vamp books I’m not always a fan of the fang. I wanted a different take. I was getting fed up with the Anita Blake series which sucked lemons and after 4 years still does IMO. This series is a hit for me every single time. With each reread I still find things that can surprise me which I hadn’t noticed before.
I found this gem and was hooked from the first page onwards. 5 "Where I love, there is my homeland." Stars.
The man stole down the hallway, his footsteps echoing in the dimly lit basement of the library. He made his way quietly, brushing aside the dark hair that fell into his eyes as he looked.
Houston, Texas.
Beatrice "B" De Novo is finishing her studies in Information Science when one evening in the library she meets the elusive, mysterious arse Dr. Giovanni "Gio" Vecchio who is translating a manuscript.
At first he doesn’t tell B what he is but soon things don’t add up and so he lets her in on his secret.
He is Batman.
Kidding.
He is a vampire. With the setup that Ms. Hunter has created each vampire can manipulate one of the four elements be it fire, earth, wind and water. Gio is a fire vampire and he needs to have great strength to control his element they are rare and end up extra crispy.
A tentative friendship grows but Gio uses Beatrice to his own advantage. To find what was taken from him a very long time. His destroyed library isn’t his only problem though. Beatrice's father is very much alive. And Gio’s “son” is a certifiable wanker or needs to be burnt all the way to hell.
There are romance elements to the book but it is slow burn as their story continues throughout four books. But at the moment there is just too much up in the air and B’s youth speaks for her that Gio wants forever but for B it might only be an infatuation.
The chemistry between the main characters is strong and believable as I said slow burn romance. But Gio treats Beatrice like a child or only told her half-truths which really did annoy me.
It involves mystery of missing books, a sired son Lorenzo who has more than one screw loose. I’ll leave it at that as there is a lot more to the story. The secondary characters Carwyn and Tenzin as well as Casper and Isadora are beautifully done.
It’s not just the main characters but also the secondary characters and I can’t wait to read more about Carwyn who is an earth vampire and Tenzin who is a wind vampire. 2017 will be the year where we get the full length Ben & Tiny novel and I can’t frigging wait.
October 14, 2012
What a find! A Hidden Fire was not at ALL the type of vampire book I am accustomed to reading. Instead of a dark, brooding hero oozing sex appeal, and a heroine who can't fall into the hero's arms fast enough, I was treated to a slow-cooking romance with a dash of mystery that centers around the search for BOOKS. Really, what's not to love about that? lol
Beatrice De Novo is a librarian in training who works in the rare book/manuscript department at her local university. When she takes over the night shift from one of her coworkers, she meets the enigmatic and handsome scholar, Giovanni. The two develop an almost instant rapport, based on their mutual love of history and books, and a respect for each other's knowledge and researching skills. It's obvious they have chemistry, but neither one is willing to act on it. Instead, they keep things strictly professional. But there are things about Giovanni that just don't add up in Beatrice's mind, little inconsistencies and odd behavior, and the more they work together, the more curious she becomes. It isn't long before Beatrice unearth's Giovanni's secret: he's a 500-year-old vampire with the ability to manipulate fire, and he's spent centuries hunting for a certain collection of books that may, or may not, be in the possession of someone from Beatrice's past. Shocked and feeling more than a little used and betrayed, Beatrice does what any sensible girl would (or should) do.
"Don't call me," she tells Gio. "I'll call you." Even better, she means it! She doesn't try to contact him the next day because she misses him and can't bear to live without him. No, she makes him wait weeks before she initiates contact again, and even then, she's understandably wary around him.
If I wasn't already sold on the book at that point (which I was), that right there would have sealed the deal for me.
The rest of the book focuses on Gio and Beatrice's quest to discover the lost books and the further development of their relationship over a period of several months. (Yes, months, not mere days!) There are a few action scenes, and when Gio gets his vamp on, it's pretty impressive, but if you're looking for a high octane reading experience, you won't find it in A Hidden Fire. The story does lack a certain sense of urgency, but I was so caught up in the characters, I hardly noticed. The cast is delightful - witty, intelligent, and likable. Even the villain entertained me.
What I liked best, though, was the romance between Gio and Beatrice. It doesn't boil; it simmers. I loved that. Nothing against bodice-ripper novels, but given the choice, I prefer a romance that isn't afraid to take its time, and Elizabeth Hunter delivered that.
5 stars.
Beatrice De Novo is a librarian in training who works in the rare book/manuscript department at her local university. When she takes over the night shift from one of her coworkers, she meets the enigmatic and handsome scholar, Giovanni. The two develop an almost instant rapport, based on their mutual love of history and books, and a respect for each other's knowledge and researching skills. It's obvious they have chemistry, but neither one is willing to act on it. Instead, they keep things strictly professional. But there are things about Giovanni that just don't add up in Beatrice's mind, little inconsistencies and odd behavior, and the more they work together, the more curious she becomes. It isn't long before Beatrice unearth's Giovanni's secret: he's a 500-year-old vampire with the ability to manipulate fire, and he's spent centuries hunting for a certain collection of books that may, or may not, be in the possession of someone from Beatrice's past. Shocked and feeling more than a little used and betrayed, Beatrice does what any sensible girl would (or should) do.
"Don't call me," she tells Gio. "I'll call you." Even better, she means it! She doesn't try to contact him the next day because she misses him and can't bear to live without him. No, she makes him wait weeks before she initiates contact again, and even then, she's understandably wary around him.
If I wasn't already sold on the book at that point (which I was), that right there would have sealed the deal for me.
The rest of the book focuses on Gio and Beatrice's quest to discover the lost books and the further development of their relationship over a period of several months. (Yes, months, not mere days!) There are a few action scenes, and when Gio gets his vamp on, it's pretty impressive, but if you're looking for a high octane reading experience, you won't find it in A Hidden Fire. The story does lack a certain sense of urgency, but I was so caught up in the characters, I hardly noticed. The cast is delightful - witty, intelligent, and likable. Even the villain entertained me.
What I liked best, though, was the romance between Gio and Beatrice. It doesn't boil; it simmers. I loved that. Nothing against bodice-ripper novels, but given the choice, I prefer a romance that isn't afraid to take its time, and Elizabeth Hunter delivered that.
5 stars.
April 18, 2013
This a wonderful book full of rich characters, a puzzling mystery that will have you engrossed in no time. Elizabeth Hunter has built a paranormal world that has characters with their own unique abilities. But there’s no bigger mystery than our own hero Giovanni. There’s definitely more to this character that meets the eye and he’s absolutely gorgeous!
Beatrice our heroine is bubbly, intelligent and is a perfect match for Gio. The romance is fabulously written. It's not a quick romp when they first meet. It starts out small and it slowly builds. The sexual tension is constanly simmering in the background and the heat gets a little hotter with each encounter. Love it!
For all you PNR lovers out there, this is a real treat so give it a go!
Beatrice our heroine is bubbly, intelligent and is a perfect match for Gio. The romance is fabulously written. It's not a quick romp when they first meet. It starts out small and it slowly builds. The sexual tension is constanly simmering in the background and the heat gets a little hotter with each encounter. Love it!
For all you PNR lovers out there, this is a real treat so give it a go!
March 7, 2015
I was recommended this series by one of my GR friends….and I am so happy about it.
My interest started with the cover….a library. Books. Just what I love!!!
Then there’s the story…... Vampires, romance, libraries, interesting and endearing characters.
I can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed reading this.
The story line is absolutely stunning. The world that the author has created is fresh, intriguing and original.
I now have a new favorite couple…….Dr Giovanni Vecchio, aka Gio, the gorgeous, sexy, ancient vampire extraordinaire, who happens to be Italian….my favorite heroes….
“Tell the truth, Giovanni Vecchio. You have a butler, a cool car, and I’ve only ever seen you at night… You’re Batman, aren’t you?” B asks Gio
& Beatrice De Novo, aka B a gorgeous human librarian…..who loves to dress in black….just like me!!!
Gio is fascinated from the first moment he meets B at the library that she works in between her final year at college.
…she was bold and shy, formal and friendly. She was young, he realized, and innocent in a way he could hardly remember, yet her short life seemed to have been shaped by loss and abandonment. She was, surprisingly, rather fascinating.
I loved the way the story and the characters developed. The mystery, the intrigue, the connection between the characters just pulled me in.
I was so into this book that I read it in one go.
I can’t wait for the next installment.
Anyone who loves paranormal romance – get this book!!
August 20, 2021
First read: 01/2017 - 4 stars
Second read: 08/2021 - 4.5 stars!
Wow, this was positively stunning. How could I possibly forget how stunning this book was?
Elizabeth Hunter must be one of the most talented writers out there. Her prose is practically flawless. Add in a bunch of compelling characters and an emotional yet incredibly fulfilling love story and I am a very, very happy reader. Yes, there were a few slow stretches somewhere in the beginning and middle part, hence not 5 stars, but other than that, I am completely smitten.
And I could kick myself in the butt for not continuing with this series when I read this book for the first time. Something I'm definitely going to catch up with now.
I'll see you guys in a few weeks once this binge reading session is over.
Original review (01/2017):
Me being a gigantic fan of Elizabeth Hunter's Irin Chronicles Trilogy, it was really just a matter of time until I started reading another of her series.
This book has been sitting on my Kindle for ages, but the vampire thing just put me off. See, I don't usually like vampires with all their emoness and woe-is-me weltschmerz attitude and perfect looks and mad love making-skills. Boooring! I prefer real monsters.
However, I was in the mood for some Urban Fantasy, and I'd already downloaded the book, so I was like "Oh heck, why the hell not?"
Way to go, me, because I ended up really, really liking this.
Something I've learned over the past two years or so is when picking up one of Hunter's books, one thing you shouldn't be hoping for is lots and lots of action. Except for one or two confrontation scenes with the bad guys, you probably won't be getting any.
What you can definitely count on, though, is some incredibly atmospheric writing, intelligently woven, character-driven stories and most importantly fantastic, deeply developed main and secondary characters you're practically guaranteed to fall in love with.
As for this book in particular, it took me some time to get fully into it.
It started out really slow (even for Elizabeth Hunter's standards, I guess), but the more I got to know the two leads, Beatrice and Giovanni, the more curious I got and the more I started swooning over the growing tension between them. The mystery didn't pique my interest up until about a third through the book, when finally things started going downhill, but the more secrets were revealed, the less I was able to put my Kindle down.
Not to mention the beautiful love story between Gio and Beatrice. Hunter sure knows how to write those.
"Tell the truth, Giovanni Vecchio." A mischievous look came to her eye. "You have a butler, a cool car, and I've only ever seen you at night..."
He froze, tension suddenly evident in the set of his shoulders. Beatrice leaned closer and whispered, "You're Batman, aren't you?"
Giovanni is an unexpectedly gentle vampire, one of the good guys and a very cultivated one at that (I know, this sounds boring as hell, but he's not, I swear!). He's a book collector, talented and powerful, and he's been good at subduing these powers for the past five centuries. That is until loner librarian Beatrice comes into his life and turns everything upside down.
I loved both of them - Gio with his dry sense of humor and fierce protectiveness for the few people he's let into his life, B and her realness and keen wit.
And then there was Carwyn... the easy-going Welsh vampire priest with his penchant for colorful flower shirts. He definitely deserves a spot on my "Best side characters" shelf.
"And I also believe that love can work miracles."
"Love?" She cocked an eyebrow at him. "What about friendship? Can that work miracles, too?"
Carwyn rolled his eyes. "Silly B, love is friendship. Just with less clothes, which makes it far more brilliant."
She burst out into laughter. "You are the most ridiculous man I've ever met. And maybe the worst priest."
"Or the best," he said with a wink. "Think carefully about that one."
So for me, this turned out a stunning page-turner full of mysteries, dry humor and amazing characters.
Will I be reading the sequel? Hell yeah!
October 17, 2011
My Rating: 10 The best book I have read in a while!
My Cover Thoughts: I absolutely love the cover. It is a picture of a library on fire. I love libraries and I love to read. If you have not gone to an old library you must find one and visit it. Old libraries hold so much mystery and intrigue you will be inspired to sit and read or sit and enjoy the priceless history you are looking at.
My Thoughts/Review: OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!! This story had me on the edge of my bed all weekend. Once I started reading it I could not put it down. It starts off in a library which I totally loved. It took me on a ride that started with laughter to tears to wonderment to outright anger. The emotional roller coaster was the best thing about this story because you were routeing for “B” and Gio and then you were like what the heck?
This story held me captivated because Elizabeth did such an awesome job of weaving something new into her story. Yes it is about vampires but the new spin she placed was that all vampires have an affinity to them. They could be earth, water, fire or air. With the new take the vampire could use the affinity it was blessed with to fight for good or evil.
In this story the main character “B” had to decide who to trust. She had been betrayed but a lot of people she loved and trusted and in the end she just did not know who she could trust. It was hard for her because she wanted to love and be open but she guarded her heart and never let her true feelings show through until she knew that person felt the same for her.
There is mystery and intrigue in this story and a romance that will be put to the test. Is some love worth fighting for? Is some love worth letting go? You decide!
If you like books that have some history in it you will love love this story. This is a story that will have you guessing who “B” is going to be with? Will she ever get the man of her dreams? Will her heart be broken? What happens to her family and friends?
Take a wild ride with “B”, Gio, Carwyn, Casper, Isadora, Tenzin, and Lorenzo. You will not be disappointed! I know I was not and the second book comes out in December 2011.
Memorable Quotes: Page 214/215 Carwyn talking to Gio There was a long pause on the line before Carwyn continued in a soft voice.
“Did you trade those damn books for her like Gav said?”
He cursed in a dozen languages before he answered. “He was experimenting like the sick little bastard that he is. He was going to take her, but I’d tipped my hand before. He was trying to determine if it was Beatrice or the books I was reacting to. It’s better ...” He cleared his throat before he continued. “It’s better for her if he thinks I’m not attached to her.”
He gripped the doorjamb, cracking the oak paneling and sending plaster dust crumbling to the floor.
“You’re right,” Carwyn said in a soothing voice, “he won’t hurt her. He needs her to retrieve her father. We just need to get her back before Stephen De Novo hears about this and returns to
Lorenzo. If that happens, all bets are off.”
He couldn’t find the words to speak to his old friend, so he took a deep, measured breath.
The scent of her fear still permeated the living room, and he clenched his eyes in frustration.
“Giovanni,” Carwyn was saying, “you realize, she might not understand. You know—”
“I know,” he muttered. “I knew the minute I let him take her she might never forgive me for it. But it’s better than her being injured or tortured to get back at me.”
Advice: This is a must read story that has love, faith, trust and learning who you are all wraped into one.
My Cover Thoughts: I absolutely love the cover. It is a picture of a library on fire. I love libraries and I love to read. If you have not gone to an old library you must find one and visit it. Old libraries hold so much mystery and intrigue you will be inspired to sit and read or sit and enjoy the priceless history you are looking at.
My Thoughts/Review: OH MY GOD!!!!!!!!!! This story had me on the edge of my bed all weekend. Once I started reading it I could not put it down. It starts off in a library which I totally loved. It took me on a ride that started with laughter to tears to wonderment to outright anger. The emotional roller coaster was the best thing about this story because you were routeing for “B” and Gio and then you were like what the heck?
This story held me captivated because Elizabeth did such an awesome job of weaving something new into her story. Yes it is about vampires but the new spin she placed was that all vampires have an affinity to them. They could be earth, water, fire or air. With the new take the vampire could use the affinity it was blessed with to fight for good or evil.
In this story the main character “B” had to decide who to trust. She had been betrayed but a lot of people she loved and trusted and in the end she just did not know who she could trust. It was hard for her because she wanted to love and be open but she guarded her heart and never let her true feelings show through until she knew that person felt the same for her.
There is mystery and intrigue in this story and a romance that will be put to the test. Is some love worth fighting for? Is some love worth letting go? You decide!
If you like books that have some history in it you will love love this story. This is a story that will have you guessing who “B” is going to be with? Will she ever get the man of her dreams? Will her heart be broken? What happens to her family and friends?
Take a wild ride with “B”, Gio, Carwyn, Casper, Isadora, Tenzin, and Lorenzo. You will not be disappointed! I know I was not and the second book comes out in December 2011.
Memorable Quotes: Page 214/215 Carwyn talking to Gio There was a long pause on the line before Carwyn continued in a soft voice.
“Did you trade those damn books for her like Gav said?”
He cursed in a dozen languages before he answered. “He was experimenting like the sick little bastard that he is. He was going to take her, but I’d tipped my hand before. He was trying to determine if it was Beatrice or the books I was reacting to. It’s better ...” He cleared his throat before he continued. “It’s better for her if he thinks I’m not attached to her.”
He gripped the doorjamb, cracking the oak paneling and sending plaster dust crumbling to the floor.
“You’re right,” Carwyn said in a soothing voice, “he won’t hurt her. He needs her to retrieve her father. We just need to get her back before Stephen De Novo hears about this and returns to
Lorenzo. If that happens, all bets are off.”
He couldn’t find the words to speak to his old friend, so he took a deep, measured breath.
The scent of her fear still permeated the living room, and he clenched his eyes in frustration.
“Giovanni,” Carwyn was saying, “you realize, she might not understand. You know—”
“I know,” he muttered. “I knew the minute I let him take her she might never forgive me for it. But it’s better than her being injured or tortured to get back at me.”
Advice: This is a must read story that has love, faith, trust and learning who you are all wraped into one.
February 18, 2015
Well, this was one huge disappointment. It is one of those everyone likes, but me books.
I finish reading anything I start, but I was seriously tempted to stop reading this. The first half of the book nothing happens. I remember reading some of the reviews and thinking it might be fun.
It is way too slow for a ... actually, I am not even sure what this is anymore. It isn't really a paranormal romance. There is romance, but in this first book it is more in the background or a set-up for the future. It isn't urban fantasy either. There is less action here than in some romances I've read. Anyway, it is too slow. The characters spend most of their time talking or reading and as much as it sounds fun for them, it gets a bit boring to a reader.
Speaking of characters, I found Beatrice De Novo annoying and I didn't get enough of Dr.Giovanni Vecchio to form a proper opinion. That just might be a reason to read the next book.
Every other character felt like a manipulation to me. Here is a loud, crazy, loyal Welshman to make you laugh and to explain what's behind Vecchio's reserved and sometimes cold behaviour. Here is another ancient, mysterious and removed from civilized world friend with very convenient abilities. Every character was just too perfectly set into his or her proper place. Villains are properly villainous (but don't expect anything special there), friends are loyal, family is full of love and so on.
There are tons of other issues I have, but I won't bother. The only reason I won't mark this as 'I didn't like it ' is that I am not totally uninterested in the next one. I just hope the characters get some depth there.
Short summary: a twenty-two-year old student meets a mysterious scholar and they talk a lot. Then they work together. Then his past comes calling (somewhere after the first half of the book) and there is some tension and fighting. There is a cliffhanger too.
I finish reading anything I start, but I was seriously tempted to stop reading this. The first half of the book nothing happens. I remember reading some of the reviews and thinking it might be fun.
It is way too slow for a ... actually, I am not even sure what this is anymore. It isn't really a paranormal romance. There is romance, but in this first book it is more in the background or a set-up for the future. It isn't urban fantasy either. There is less action here than in some romances I've read. Anyway, it is too slow. The characters spend most of their time talking or reading and as much as it sounds fun for them, it gets a bit boring to a reader.
Speaking of characters, I found Beatrice De Novo annoying and I didn't get enough of Dr.Giovanni Vecchio to form a proper opinion. That just might be a reason to read the next book.
Every other character felt like a manipulation to me. Here is a loud, crazy, loyal Welshman to make you laugh and to explain what's behind Vecchio's reserved and sometimes cold behaviour. Here is another ancient, mysterious and removed from civilized world friend with very convenient abilities. Every character was just too perfectly set into his or her proper place. Villains are properly villainous (but don't expect anything special there), friends are loyal, family is full of love and so on.
There are tons of other issues I have, but I won't bother. The only reason I won't mark this as 'I didn't like it ' is that I am not totally uninterested in the next one. I just hope the characters get some depth there.
Short summary: a twenty-two-year old student meets a mysterious scholar and they talk a lot. Then they work together. Then his past comes calling (somewhere after the first half of the book) and there is some tension and fighting. There is a cliffhanger too.
November 2, 2014
10/24/14 reread
This was a lot less frustrating on the second pass. I don't know if it's b/c I've grown to appreciate a good slow burn romance, or b/c I know what happens, but either way, this is one of the rare books that improves on the second reading.
It's a little annoying that after finishing this book I still don't know what the MCs are after. Specifically, I mean. I know that they're after old books full of big secrets, but not what those big secrets are, or why they're important . . . not even a little bit. So, like I said, that's annoying. BUT I liked this one enough to read the next one, so maybe next time . . . *crosses fingers*
This was a lot less frustrating on the second pass. I don't know if it's b/c I've grown to appreciate a good slow burn romance, or b/c I know what happens, but either way, this is one of the rare books that improves on the second reading.
It's a little annoying that after finishing this book I still don't know what the MCs are after. Specifically, I mean. I know that they're after old books full of big secrets, but not what those big secrets are, or why they're important . . . not even a little bit. So, like I said, that's annoying. BUT I liked this one enough to read the next one, so maybe next time . . . *crosses fingers*
August 1, 2013
Woohoo!! A new series for me to obsess over!!
I am a massive lover of paranormal books, and this gem took me by surprise! Different from the paranormals that I usually read, this is a very intelligent book with a lot of emotional depth to it. It’s a bit slow to start - rather than being thrown straight into the action, it’s the kind of book you slowly sink into, but I think it sets the mood and fits the story beautifully. I absolutely loved it!
Beatrice is a fantastic heroine. A young librarian, she is confident and sassy and very relatable. She meets the gorgeous and intellectual Dr Giovannni Vecchio at the library where she works when he comes in one a week to translate an ancient manuscript. After weeks of hidden glances and innocent conversation, a tentative friendship develops, and then Gio reveals himself to be a 500+ year old vampire, and offers Beatrice a job as his assistant, helping him track down ancient books and documents (he has some issues using electronic equipment due to his vampiric nature).
Gio is, at first, an unlikely hero. Formal, fastidious and somewhat reserved, he soon reveals himself to have a great sense of humour, a wickedly flirty side, and is oh so sexy! And as the two work together, the chemistry starts to sizzle, and oh my God, it’s awesome! The sexual tension had my heart pounding with anticipation, and the romance is definitely there, but it’s a very slow burn, which I thought was very realistic. There are a few hot moments, but nothing really steamy. It’s more about the emotion. And the tenderness between them and depth of their feelings definitely had me swooning. I loved every minute of it!
The book is written in dual POV, thank God! I loved knowing what they were both thinking – in terms of what they were feeling for each other, and why they acted in certain ways. If I didn’t know what they were thinking, I probably would have been really frustrated. And even though my heart broke at times, because I knew what was going on with them, it all made sense to me, and I was ok with it.
I love these characters!! They are complex, and so well developed, and the dynamics and dialogue are sensational! And there is a fantastic bunch of side characters – Casper, Isadora, and Tenzin are all great. But I need to declare made love for Gio’s best friend and fellow vamp, Carwyn – despite being over 1,000 years old, he’s juvenile and so freaking hilarious, but he has a heart of gold. I love his friendship with both Gio and Beatrice, and his efforts to bring the two of them together – some of them are deep and meaningful and made my heart clench at his sincerity, and others… not so much.
It’s a fantastic interpretation of vampires, and I like the world that Hunter has created. While the paranormal aspect is minor at the beginning of the book, it really ramps up in the second half, and I loved watching Gio and his mates get their badass on!
The mystery is clever, with a few twists, as Gio’s search for his ancient books, and the reappearance of centuries-old letters, start to reveal secrets from long ago, and put both him and Beatrice in danger. I found this part of the story a little tricky to get my head around at first, but it all becomes clear as the story progresses, and the pacing of it all is perfect, as it all unfolds alongside Gio and Beatrice slowly falling for each other.
The ending is bittersweet but the story is far from over! I'm diving straight into book 2 for more!
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
I am a massive lover of paranormal books, and this gem took me by surprise! Different from the paranormals that I usually read, this is a very intelligent book with a lot of emotional depth to it. It’s a bit slow to start - rather than being thrown straight into the action, it’s the kind of book you slowly sink into, but I think it sets the mood and fits the story beautifully. I absolutely loved it!
Beatrice is a fantastic heroine. A young librarian, she is confident and sassy and very relatable. She meets the gorgeous and intellectual Dr Giovannni Vecchio at the library where she works when he comes in one a week to translate an ancient manuscript. After weeks of hidden glances and innocent conversation, a tentative friendship develops, and then Gio reveals himself to be a 500+ year old vampire, and offers Beatrice a job as his assistant, helping him track down ancient books and documents (he has some issues using electronic equipment due to his vampiric nature).
Gio is, at first, an unlikely hero. Formal, fastidious and somewhat reserved, he soon reveals himself to have a great sense of humour, a wickedly flirty side, and is oh so sexy! And as the two work together, the chemistry starts to sizzle, and oh my God, it’s awesome! The sexual tension had my heart pounding with anticipation, and the romance is definitely there, but it’s a very slow burn, which I thought was very realistic. There are a few hot moments, but nothing really steamy. It’s more about the emotion. And the tenderness between them and depth of their feelings definitely had me swooning. I loved every minute of it!
“She had the simultaneous urge to run away from the approaching menace and run toward him and hold on for dear life. The problem, she realised, was that she had no idea whether he would catch her either way.”
The book is written in dual POV, thank God! I loved knowing what they were both thinking – in terms of what they were feeling for each other, and why they acted in certain ways. If I didn’t know what they were thinking, I probably would have been really frustrated. And even though my heart broke at times, because I knew what was going on with them, it all made sense to me, and I was ok with it.
I love these characters!! They are complex, and so well developed, and the dynamics and dialogue are sensational! And there is a fantastic bunch of side characters – Casper, Isadora, and Tenzin are all great. But I need to declare made love for Gio’s best friend and fellow vamp, Carwyn – despite being over 1,000 years old, he’s juvenile and so freaking hilarious, but he has a heart of gold. I love his friendship with both Gio and Beatrice, and his efforts to bring the two of them together – some of them are deep and meaningful and made my heart clench at his sincerity, and others… not so much.
“Do you like Gio? Check yes or no. He had sketched two small boxes underneath the question with a large arrow pointing to the 'yes' box.
She rolled her eyes and wrote back. How can you be this childish after a thousand years?
He raised his eyebrows and jotted down.That’s not a yes or no.”
“You can cause earthquakes?”
He sighed, a playful look in his eyes. “There’s such a delicious joke there, but I’m going to be good and hold back. With the amount of sexual tension permeating these grounds, even a bad ‘rock your world’ line is liable to ignite something.”
It’s a fantastic interpretation of vampires, and I like the world that Hunter has created. While the paranormal aspect is minor at the beginning of the book, it really ramps up in the second half, and I loved watching Gio and his mates get their badass on!
The mystery is clever, with a few twists, as Gio’s search for his ancient books, and the reappearance of centuries-old letters, start to reveal secrets from long ago, and put both him and Beatrice in danger. I found this part of the story a little tricky to get my head around at first, but it all becomes clear as the story progresses, and the pacing of it all is perfect, as it all unfolds alongside Gio and Beatrice slowly falling for each other.
The ending is bittersweet but the story is far from over! I'm diving straight into book 2 for more!
I loved it – 4.5 stars.
July 6, 2019
I am going have a hard time explaining why I enjoyed Hidden Fire so much. As a romance it is mild and up front - and without being too spoilerish - I have to say that while the ending is hopeful, Hidden Fire is just the first episode and the story continues in This Same Earth, just so that no one expects all the elements of the story to wrap up in a single book.
I really enjoyed the slowly building relationship between the gorgeous and unusual book scholar Giovanni Vecchio and library student intern Beatrice De Nova. The way that the mysteries surrounding the leading man Gio unfold is really interesting and Beatrice is a really good and intelligent heroine who is written in such a way that you can see why she caught Gio's interest even though she is way younger than him - she really seemed special enough to actually warrant the interest she stirred up. And in fact all of Hunter's characters are good, I liked Beatrice's grandmother, and Gio's friends Carwyn and Castor who are nice counterpoints to the enigmatic and serious Gio. And I also really enjoyed that there was a nice sprinkling of humor throughout - the leads and the supporting characters all had some great lines.
So this is where I need to add a big thank you to all my book friends for turning me on to Hunter's Elemental Mysteries, it is always a delight to find a really good character driven diamond in the rough of the self published world (and the next one This Same Earth was almost as good, plus there's still two more to go with the third book The Force of Wind out the first week of March 2012 and the fourth book slated for June 2012.)
As a note of advice, I would avoid reading the teaser for the next book, This Same Earth, (which is included after the end) too soon after finishing A Hidden Fire. Teasers are not always your friend and this one made me hesitant to pick up the next book, even though I had been okay with the ending of A Hidden Fire until reading the teaser. But having overcome my worry that the next one couldn't possibly be as good (expectations are my bane) and having already read This Same Earth, I really think that the scene is better read in the context of that book which actually has a prolog to prepare you for this part, so do yourself a favor and wait.
I really enjoyed the slowly building relationship between the gorgeous and unusual book scholar Giovanni Vecchio and library student intern Beatrice De Nova. The way that the mysteries surrounding the leading man Gio unfold is really interesting and Beatrice is a really good and intelligent heroine who is written in such a way that you can see why she caught Gio's interest even though she is way younger than him - she really seemed special enough to actually warrant the interest she stirred up. And in fact all of Hunter's characters are good, I liked Beatrice's grandmother, and Gio's friends Carwyn and Castor who are nice counterpoints to the enigmatic and serious Gio. And I also really enjoyed that there was a nice sprinkling of humor throughout - the leads and the supporting characters all had some great lines.
So this is where I need to add a big thank you to all my book friends for turning me on to Hunter's Elemental Mysteries, it is always a delight to find a really good character driven diamond in the rough of the self published world (and the next one This Same Earth was almost as good, plus there's still two more to go with the third book The Force of Wind out the first week of March 2012 and the fourth book slated for June 2012.)
As a note of advice, I would avoid reading the teaser for the next book, This Same Earth, (which is included after the end) too soon after finishing A Hidden Fire. Teasers are not always your friend and this one made me hesitant to pick up the next book, even though I had been okay with the ending of A Hidden Fire until reading the teaser. But having overcome my worry that the next one couldn't possibly be as good (expectations are my bane) and having already read This Same Earth, I really think that the scene is better read in the context of that book which actually has a prolog to prepare you for this part, so do yourself a favor and wait.
June 22, 2016
5 million stars
I still can't believe i'm just finding out about this series. If you love paranormal romance with a dashing, intelligent vampire professor and a sweet,sassy human heroine, YOU MUST READ THIS!!
It's a series of 4 books and there's romance, suspense and lots of action!
Off to devour the next book! To find out what that word 'Tesoro' means.... Yeeeehaaaaaaa~
I still can't believe i'm just finding out about this series. If you love paranormal romance with a dashing, intelligent vampire professor and a sweet,sassy human heroine, YOU MUST READ THIS!!
It's a series of 4 books and there's romance, suspense and lots of action!
Off to devour the next book! To find out what that word 'Tesoro' means.... Yeeeehaaaaaaa~
September 29, 2019
.
A Hidden Fire in the introductory volume of The Elemental Mysteries by Elizabeth Hunter.
A young student librarian is thrown into the immortal world when she takes a job from a mysterious Italian scholar, Giovanni Vecchio. Beatrice is drawn to the mystery--and her new employer--but can she survive a vampire world ruled by power, politics, and blood-lust?
How far will Giovanni go to find a library missing for five hundred years?
Beatrice De Novo, a university student working in the library, intrigues a mysterious Italian scholar, Giovanni Vecchio. Their paths cross and intertwine in the most fascinating ways. They are drawn to each other inexplicably in spite of the danger surrounding this mysterious man.
I'm not usually a fan of vampires, but this was an amazing paranormal story filled with humor, intrigue, and passion.
I just LOVE books and the captivating aspect of the compulsion in the story may have tugged on my heart quite a bit.
The chemistry and the compulsion of the storyline grabbed me, compelling me with captivation throughout the entire adventure.
There is profanity, but it was not blatantly offensive. I still prefer that it is omitted from my literary adventures. There were no sexual encounters that I recall.
I couldn't wait to get the rest of the series.
---------------------------------------------
A Hidden Fire: Elemental Mysteries, Book 1
Elizabeth Hunter, Author
Print Length: 398 pages
A Hidden Fire in the introductory volume of The Elemental Mysteries by Elizabeth Hunter.
A young student librarian is thrown into the immortal world when she takes a job from a mysterious Italian scholar, Giovanni Vecchio. Beatrice is drawn to the mystery--and her new employer--but can she survive a vampire world ruled by power, politics, and blood-lust?
How far will Giovanni go to find a library missing for five hundred years?
Beatrice De Novo, a university student working in the library, intrigues a mysterious Italian scholar, Giovanni Vecchio. Their paths cross and intertwine in the most fascinating ways. They are drawn to each other inexplicably in spite of the danger surrounding this mysterious man.
I'm not usually a fan of vampires, but this was an amazing paranormal story filled with humor, intrigue, and passion.
I just LOVE books and the captivating aspect of the compulsion in the story may have tugged on my heart quite a bit.
The chemistry and the compulsion of the storyline grabbed me, compelling me with captivation throughout the entire adventure.
There is profanity, but it was not blatantly offensive. I still prefer that it is omitted from my literary adventures. There were no sexual encounters that I recall.
I couldn't wait to get the rest of the series.
---------------------------------------------
A Hidden Fire: Elemental Mysteries, Book 1
Elizabeth Hunter, Author
Print Length: 398 pages
April 6, 2016
This is advertised as PNR, but actually reads like Mary Sue-style Twilight fanfiction with very little substance.
These are not the droids I was looking for This is not the sort of alternative PNR I was looking for.
March 19, 2012
"Tell the truth, Giovanni Vecchio." A mischievous look came to her eye. "You have a butler, a cool car, and I've only seen you at night..."
He froze, tension suddenly evident in the set of his shoulders. Beatrice leaned closer and whispered, "You're Batman, aren't you?"
This debut novel by Elizabeth and the first in the Elemental Mysteries series was published last October. Luckily for you readers who decide to give it a try, This Same Earth (book 2) and The Force of Wind (book 3) are now available.
But back to A Hidden Fire... This is quite a refreshing addition to the paranormal romance genre that has, for me, become kind of stagnant. Elizabeth adds a new twist to the paranormal by what she has created that I find highly entertaining. I won't say what the twist is, you just have to read it for yourself to find out but it’s not something I’ve read before.
The cast of characters she has created are all very likable and I find myself wanting to know more about them. *Ahem Carwyn ahem*
Meet Beatrice De Novo AKA B:
According to Gio ~ Despite her rather common accent, the girl’s voice held a faint quality which told him at least one of her parents was a native Spanish speaker. Her thick, black hair was pulled into a low ponytail at the nape of her neck, and she was dressed in a black button-down shirt and slim skirt. He smiled when he saw the tops of her tall Doc Marten boots almost touching her knees.
Beatrice lives with her grandmother Isadora in Houston while attending college for Library Sciences at Houston University. She has worked part time at the campus library for close to three years when her schedule changes altering the course of her life as she knows it. Hmmm, lucky girl gets switched to Wednesday nights and meets the tall, dark and handsome Dr. Vecchio who just happens to be there on those nights to research a Tibetan manuscript for his colleague Tenzin.
Their first encounter is promising:
He could feel the smile crawl across his face. “I meant no disrespect…I’m sorry, what was your name?”
“Just call me B,” she said, glancing down at some handwritten notes.
From where he was standing, Giovanni could see the familiar scrawl of Mrs. Martin’s handwriting.
“B? As in the second letter of the Latin alphabet?” he asked, walking closer to the desk.
“No, the Etruscan. I’m wild like that,” she muttered and glanced up.
Carwyn is one of Gio’s few trusted friends and I adore him completely. Where else do you read about a vampire Priest who has a penchant for wearing Hawaiian shirts?
“I’m coming for a visit,” the priest had informed him. “A proper one.”
“Out of whiskey or deer?”
“Neither, Sparky. You’re getting in one of your moods again, I can tell.” Carwyn’s Welsh accent tripped across the phone line.
“Oh, you can tell from across an ocean? You must be old,” Giovanni quipped in the library as he spoke on the old rotary phone. “I don’t need last rites yet, Father.”
“No, but you do need a bit of fun. That’s why I’m interrupting my very busy drinking and eating regimen to come for a visit.”
There are parts in this story that involve professional wrestling and B and Carwyn passing notes back and forth in the library that has me cracking up...
Do you like Gio? Check yes or no. He had sketched two small boxes underneath the question with a large arrow pointing to the “yes” box.
She rolled her eyes and wrote back. How can you be this childish after a thousand years?
He raised his eyebrows and jotted down. That’s not a yes or no.
Seriously one of my favorite side characters ever and I hope he eventually gets his own story.
Honorable mentions go out to Caspar, Isadora and Tenzin. Other great side characters that are just as involved as the main characters.
Soon we have Gio and B working together to track down a mysterious book that once belonged to Gio. If only it was that easy. Who knew tracking down a book could be such a dangerous adventure? From shared whiskey samplers at pubs to private islands in Greece and the valleys of Chile, the plot is paced perfectly. Non-stop mystery that is intriguing, a growing attraction between B and Gio and a satisfying ending. Never once did it drag or make me want to take a break. It's one of those books I just couldn't put down. Though the ending wasn't a major cliffhanger, the story of Gio and B is not finished. I love that Elizabeth is taking her time for personal character development as well as any relationship developments. It’s so much more believable this way, or at least as believable as the paranormal can get! ;)
I leave you with these words of wisdom:
Carwyn rolled his eyes. “Silly B, love is friendship…just with less clothes, which makes it far more brilliant.”
July 27, 2013
3.5 STARS
I just realized this is my first UF read after Georgina Kincaid.
Uh-oh.
And my first book in a while.
Dubs uh-oh.
I'm not really actively avoiding these particular "creatures" in my PNRs and the reason I've put off reading this was it had the lethal combo of having a generic title (I seriously can't even remember it while writing this) and being offered as a kindle freebie from amazon. This is a book that is so easy to overlook if not for the strength of recommendations fromtastytasteful friends.
This started rather well for me and there were stretches that did grip me then stretches that were just puzzling, the kind that doesn't really amuse me. I liked how this offered something new in this tired mythology for me as their abilities are tied to a particular element. The lead characters were likable: the smart, spunky librarian, Beatrice was a good complement to the mysterious, standoffish Giovanni. Especially once you get to know the professor and his quirky little 'family' of a butler, a priest and a kitteh(!) a little better.
Gratuitous cuddly cat gif belongs here.
The dialogue was funny and the story didn't rely purely on the hero and heroine's chemistry to move the story along. If anything, the main characters' banter with the secondaries had better depth to be both entertaining (Carwyn and anyone) and heart-wrenching (Gio and Caspar's).
My problem lay in the consistency of these characters, particularly Gio and Beatrice. I'm all for breaking streotypes but I can't seem to reconcile the details in Gio's character. There's something that didn't mesh well with the fusion of mild-mannered emo book dealer, alpha territorial male and quirky cat-loving wrestling fan. They were interesting separately but some of the pieces didn't make complete sense to me as a reader.
(There's a Jersey Shore joke in there somewhere... anyone?)
Gio was charming, quirky and dorky. I liked him but couldn't fully commit to getting enamored by him.
Beatrice was a strong, level-headed heroine and I couldn't really find any fault in her until she was where she seemed to have done nothing but mope. I thought she'd be smart enough to figure out Gio's intent atleast since all she got from it but nope , she had to be just like every other PNR heroine, making the first 75%, strong and independent Beatrice moot.
As the seeming pivotal point in their relationship, I failed to reconcile the gravity of that situation and Gio's reaction (which could be easily explained with fanged alpha logic, I guess) to the point that it was almost comical. Not looking for the rape trope here but can't we at least give her one scratch instead of giving her a personalized wax job?
My other issue was the mystery. Perhaps I'm just that kind of reader who likes to participate in the mystery solving with crumbs of clues to figure things out than just being kept in the dark until the last two chapters. Which I guess should be a clever way of making me want to re-read those damn letters but only annoyed me when it was eventually revealed. Taking away my sympathy for that particular character.
Speaking of sympathy and the lack thereof, I kept trying to invest some, any emotional connection with B's daddy issues... but I really couldn't bring myself to care. If this storyline gets revisited as the series progresses, I hope this would be given a bit more background especially if it would play such a big part in the overall plot.
Yet despite all these gripes (where would I be without my gripes?) and those letter-induced migraines, I can't say I'm not looking forward to seeing what this series has up its sleeves for its thoroughly entertaining cast.
Apart from wresting, Beowulf and Tommy Bahama.
----------------
Maybe a review in a while. In the meantime, I bring you, kitteh asking to be petted...
I just realized this is my first UF read after Georgina Kincaid.
Uh-oh.
And my first book in a while.
Dubs uh-oh.
I'm not really actively avoiding these particular "creatures" in my PNRs and the reason I've put off reading this was it had the lethal combo of having a generic title (I seriously can't even remember it while writing this) and being offered as a kindle freebie from amazon. This is a book that is so easy to overlook if not for the strength of recommendations from
This started rather well for me and there were stretches that did grip me then stretches that were just puzzling, the kind that doesn't really amuse me. I liked how this offered something new in this tired mythology for me as their abilities are tied to a particular element. The lead characters were likable: the smart, spunky librarian, Beatrice was a good complement to the mysterious, standoffish Giovanni. Especially once you get to know the professor and his quirky little 'family' of a butler, a priest and a kitteh(!) a little better.
Gratuitous cuddly cat gif belongs here.
The dialogue was funny and the story didn't rely purely on the hero and heroine's chemistry to move the story along. If anything, the main characters' banter with the secondaries had better depth to be both entertaining (Carwyn and anyone) and heart-wrenching (Gio and Caspar's).
My problem lay in the consistency of these characters, particularly Gio and Beatrice. I'm all for breaking streotypes but I can't seem to reconcile the details in Gio's character. There's something that didn't mesh well with the fusion of mild-mannered emo book dealer, alpha territorial male and quirky cat-loving wrestling fan. They were interesting separately but some of the pieces didn't make complete sense to me as a reader.
“What about the sun?” she asked. “Extra toasty?”
“I’m not going to burst into flames, but I avoid tanning beds.”
“Silver?”
“Some of my favorite cufflinks.”
“Garlic?”
“Please,” he sneered. “I’m Italian."
(There's a Jersey Shore joke in there somewhere... anyone?)
Gio was charming, quirky and dorky. I liked him but couldn't fully commit to getting enamored by him.
Beatrice was a strong, level-headed heroine and I couldn't really find any fault in her until she was where she seemed to have done nothing but mope. I thought she'd be smart enough to figure out Gio's intent atleast since all she got from it but nope , she had to be just like every other PNR heroine, making the first 75%, strong and independent Beatrice moot.
As the seeming pivotal point in their relationship, I failed to reconcile the gravity of that situation and Gio's reaction (which could be easily explained with fanged alpha logic, I guess) to the point that it was almost comical. Not looking for the rape trope here but can't we at least give her one scratch instead of giving her a personalized wax job?
My other issue was the mystery. Perhaps I'm just that kind of reader who likes to participate in the mystery solving with crumbs of clues to figure things out than just being kept in the dark until the last two chapters. Which I guess should be a clever way of making me want to re-read those damn letters but only annoyed me when it was eventually revealed. Taking away my sympathy for that particular character.
Speaking of sympathy and the lack thereof, I kept trying to invest some, any emotional connection with B's daddy issues... but I really couldn't bring myself to care. If this storyline gets revisited as the series progresses, I hope this would be given a bit more background especially if it would play such a big part in the overall plot.
Yet despite all these gripes (where would I be without my gripes?) and those letter-induced migraines, I can't say I'm not looking forward to seeing what this series has up its sleeves for its thoroughly entertaining cast.
Apart from wresting, Beowulf and Tommy Bahama.
----------------
Maybe a review in a while. In the meantime, I bring you, kitteh asking to be petted...
October 23, 2012
This book came highly recommended, however as i read, I found that there were too many (i consider) useless characters mentioned. The characters weren't very well developed and i couldn't really relate to any of them. Too many meaningless characters.
The plot is horrible. what do i care about some lost books from 500 years before? If Lorenzo's had it all these years and didn't do anything with it, why now? The plot, the story line just didn't hold much interest for me. And drama/action?? TALK ABOUT NONE!
Maybe i'll give the second book a chance and see where that takes me... just because a friend was so insane over this series... We shall see how bored I'll get on my long flight.
SPOILER:
The part with capturing her to use her as bait for her father and then when Lorenzo actually DID capture her, left her to sit around and mope.... WHY ARE YOU WAITING for the father to come? do something active... torture her or something?? make a public display if you really want him to show up... I need a little more drama... the storyline is just all so BLAH... where's the action????
And what's up with the way Lorenzo captured her? wouldn't it have been easier to just go and abduct her? seriously... do we need to send some old letters around to entice another vamp to declare it? and make it even more complicated?
The plot is horrible. what do i care about some lost books from 500 years before? If Lorenzo's had it all these years and didn't do anything with it, why now? The plot, the story line just didn't hold much interest for me. And drama/action?? TALK ABOUT NONE!
Maybe i'll give the second book a chance and see where that takes me... just because a friend was so insane over this series... We shall see how bored I'll get on my long flight.
SPOILER:
The part with capturing her to use her as bait for her father and then when Lorenzo actually DID capture her, left her to sit around and mope.... WHY ARE YOU WAITING for the father to come? do something active... torture her or something?? make a public display if you really want him to show up... I need a little more drama... the storyline is just all so BLAH... where's the action????
And what's up with the way Lorenzo captured her? wouldn't it have been easier to just go and abduct her? seriously... do we need to send some old letters around to entice another vamp to declare it? and make it even more complicated?
December 13, 2016
This is a nice character-driven paranormal mystery with a pleasant slow burning romance. Also, there are books and librarians involved which is always a plus for me. The pace is spot-on and the story is simple and linear, the main strength of the book is the protagonists who, as their surnames suggest, have very different approaches to reality and to overcoming hurdles.
While this novel has a proper ending, the central mystery is still unsolved and the story is fully open for the next installment of the series. I’ll read the sequel when I’m in the mood for more UF/paranormal romance. Recommended.
“What do you hold in your hands, my son?”
“A book.”
“No, you hold knowledge. Knowledge sought for centuries. Knowledge that some have died for. Knowledge that some have killed for.”
“Why would anyone kill for a book?”
“It is not a book.” The slap rung in his ears. “What is it?”
“Knowledge.”
“And knowledge is power. Do you understand?”
“Yes, Father.”
While this novel has a proper ending, the central mystery is still unsolved and the story is fully open for the next installment of the series. I’ll read the sequel when I’m in the mood for more UF/paranormal romance. Recommended.
“What do you hold in your hands, my son?”
“A book.”
“No, you hold knowledge. Knowledge sought for centuries. Knowledge that some have died for. Knowledge that some have killed for.”
“Why would anyone kill for a book?”
“It is not a book.” The slap rung in his ears. “What is it?”
“Knowledge.”
“And knowledge is power. Do you understand?”
“Yes, Father.”
January 22, 2022
*some swearing, lots of anger*
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I rated it 3 stars the other day and then... I had a chance to sleep on it and that's when I got so beyond fucking angry.
Giovanni is the one of the biggest asshole around.
Beatrice is the biggest Mary Sue I had ever read.
She doesn't know what she wants or where she goes or what she does. She can't even muster the courage to call Gio on his shit when HE decides their relationship, after EVERYTHING that happened, is a no go because it is so dangerous (Oh, no!) But he had no qualms dragging her into that 'dangerous' world to begin with.
Have I also mentioned that he is a loser of a vampire and that he eats food?
Seriously, is this for real?
Also, vamps in this world are all civilized despite the contradiction that Gio says over and over again that the vampire have no rules. It painfully reminded me of Twilight, with all the 'good" vamps being able to live on animal blood..
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The plot?
Are you kidding me, THIS book has NO plot.
It all revolved around some dusty, moldy books that Gio lost a long time ago that are really sort of useless. And the villain is the biggest loser ever to set foot in the literary world. When he kidnaps Beatrice, to get her father for I don't know what, all he does is her locked up, give her white clothes to wear (the horror!) and send stylist to dye her hair back to her natural color. I know, he is absolutely horrible! (sarcasm) Also there is no climax in this book nor very much action to be talked about.
The supporting cast?
All Gio/Beatrice shipper fangirls, trying their hardest to make Gio see the LIGHT. The attempts at giving them personalities is really pathetic.
AND The teaser for the next book made so angry I thought I was about to go nuclear.
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Now, that THAT is off my chest I am off to read something else. I'm sorry for the people I offended, its nothing personal.
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I rated it 3 stars the other day and then... I had a chance to sleep on it and that's when I got so beyond fucking angry.
Giovanni is the one of the biggest asshole around.
Beatrice is the biggest Mary Sue I had ever read.
She doesn't know what she wants or where she goes or what she does. She can't even muster the courage to call Gio on his shit when HE decides their relationship, after EVERYTHING that happened, is a no go because it is so dangerous (Oh, no!) But he had no qualms dragging her into that 'dangerous' world to begin with.
Have I also mentioned that he is a loser of a vampire and that he eats food?
Seriously, is this for real?
Also, vamps in this world are all civilized despite the contradiction that Gio says over and over again that the vampire have no rules. It painfully reminded me of Twilight, with all the 'good" vamps being able to live on animal blood..
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The plot?
Are you kidding me, THIS book has NO plot.
It all revolved around some dusty, moldy books that Gio lost a long time ago that are really sort of useless. And the villain is the biggest loser ever to set foot in the literary world. When he kidnaps Beatrice, to get her father for I don't know what, all he does is her locked up, give her white clothes to wear (the horror!) and send stylist to dye her hair back to her natural color. I know, he is absolutely horrible! (sarcasm) Also there is no climax in this book nor very much action to be talked about.
The supporting cast?
All Gio/Beatrice shipper fangirls, trying their hardest to make Gio see the LIGHT. The attempts at giving them personalities is really pathetic.
AND The teaser for the next book made so angry I thought I was about to go nuclear.
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Now, that THAT is off my chest I am off to read something else. I'm sorry for the people I offended, its nothing personal.
November 8, 2019
Yawn.......
March 4, 2013
As seen on www.choicebookreviews.net.
AMAZING.
SPECTACTULAR.
BEAUTIFUL.
COULD.NOT.PUT.IT.DOWN.
This has been sitting on my TRB's for a while now and finally, FINALLY! I read it. And my only question is...WHY THE HELL DID I WAIT SO DAMN LONG??!!!
It was so fantastically amazing I am still reeling from it's punch of awesomeness! This is a paranormal romance and the BEST VAMPIRE-DRIVEN PARANORMAL ROMANCE I'VE EVER READ. Boom! that's what I just said!! And here's the clincher:
The romance wasn't fast. It wasn't love at first sight, not necessarily. It wasn't let's see how fast I can get down those pants. NO. It was a sensual and seductively slow build. We are talking hot, thick caramel oozing down your icecream slow. We are talking luscious hot fudge crawling down your finger slow. The kind of slow build that makes you giddy and drunk with anticipation!
I LOVED IT!!!!! It was time for a change from the sex, sex and more sex ( although, I normally DO NOT have a problem with that! ;) into something more plot-driven and intellectual. I got that in spades with this gem!
Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is after some centuries old books and texts that render themselves priceless. A phone call puts him back on the trail of these texts he's been looking for a LONG, LONG time. He inadvertently meets Beatrice ( B ), a university student working the special collections department at one of the universities' libraries. Gio is a vampire, an Italian one at that ( yum! ), and uses the evening hours available once a week at this library to do his research. He of course meets our beautiful Beatrice who gets the short end of the straw and must work those nights.
Over time, with the donation of some practically-ancient documents, and the attention of some un-savoury vampires, Gio and Beatrice begin working together to locate the mysterious individual responsible for the donations and more importantly, the books Gio is so desperate to find. HENCE THE SLOW BUILD!
Over months and plenty of sexual tension we see the relationship between Gio and B develop. It is beautiful to watch and even more so to witness the development of true feelings. She is smitten with him. But B is no damsel in distress. She is smart, driven and different. She fantasizes about Gio but won't put herself out on the line unless she is sure he feels the same way.
Gio is gorgeous! He is intelligent, fiercly private and doesn't want to admit his feelings for B, although he just can't keep himself away. He only resigns in defeat with how he feels after they are threatened, but it may be too late.
They are many back stories, characters and events that happen that significantly alter the course of things. All that with this slow-burning, lip-licking, sexual-tension-is driving-me-crazy relationship between Gio and B, and you have an amazing, satisfying story!
I won't give anymore away because if I do it will sound confusing without having to then spill the beans, so I'll just say...EFFING.FANTASTIC!!
This is the 1st in a series, so I'm off to read the 2nd, This Same Earth!
AMAZING.
SPECTACTULAR.
BEAUTIFUL.
COULD.NOT.PUT.IT.DOWN.
This has been sitting on my TRB's for a while now and finally, FINALLY! I read it. And my only question is...WHY THE HELL DID I WAIT SO DAMN LONG??!!!
It was so fantastically amazing I am still reeling from it's punch of awesomeness! This is a paranormal romance and the BEST VAMPIRE-DRIVEN PARANORMAL ROMANCE I'VE EVER READ. Boom! that's what I just said!! And here's the clincher:
The romance wasn't fast. It wasn't love at first sight, not necessarily. It wasn't let's see how fast I can get down those pants. NO. It was a sensual and seductively slow build. We are talking hot, thick caramel oozing down your icecream slow. We are talking luscious hot fudge crawling down your finger slow. The kind of slow build that makes you giddy and drunk with anticipation!
I LOVED IT!!!!! It was time for a change from the sex, sex and more sex ( although, I normally DO NOT have a problem with that! ;) into something more plot-driven and intellectual. I got that in spades with this gem!
Dr. Giovanni Vecchio is after some centuries old books and texts that render themselves priceless. A phone call puts him back on the trail of these texts he's been looking for a LONG, LONG time. He inadvertently meets Beatrice ( B ), a university student working the special collections department at one of the universities' libraries. Gio is a vampire, an Italian one at that ( yum! ), and uses the evening hours available once a week at this library to do his research. He of course meets our beautiful Beatrice who gets the short end of the straw and must work those nights.
Over time, with the donation of some practically-ancient documents, and the attention of some un-savoury vampires, Gio and Beatrice begin working together to locate the mysterious individual responsible for the donations and more importantly, the books Gio is so desperate to find. HENCE THE SLOW BUILD!
Over months and plenty of sexual tension we see the relationship between Gio and B develop. It is beautiful to watch and even more so to witness the development of true feelings. She is smitten with him. But B is no damsel in distress. She is smart, driven and different. She fantasizes about Gio but won't put herself out on the line unless she is sure he feels the same way.
Gio is gorgeous! He is intelligent, fiercly private and doesn't want to admit his feelings for B, although he just can't keep himself away. He only resigns in defeat with how he feels after they are threatened, but it may be too late.
They are many back stories, characters and events that happen that significantly alter the course of things. All that with this slow-burning, lip-licking, sexual-tension-is driving-me-crazy relationship between Gio and B, and you have an amazing, satisfying story!
I won't give anymore away because if I do it will sound confusing without having to then spill the beans, so I'll just say...EFFING.FANTASTIC!!
This is the 1st in a series, so I'm off to read the 2nd, This Same Earth!
May 17, 2012
4 1/2 Stars
Beatrice or B, a goth girl, works in a library when she meets Gio, a mysterious gentleman. Beatrice was on to him, she didn't know what he was, but she knew he was different. He was intrigued and attracted to her, but fought it because of his nature...and he was 500 years older than her. There is a connection in their pasts that comes to light and brings them together to solve a mystery.
My brain is fried so here is a list of my thoughts and why I loved it:
Exceptional story- a lot of thought put into this one and development was fabulous AND it was a paranormal which I don't usually rate high
Not predictable because of it's unique plot, but it flowed smoothly
Great intrigue/mystery; Sort of surprising since a lot of it took place in a library transcribing books, it was anything but slow or boring like you would think
Sometimes confusing because of all the foreign names and vast amount of characters
Romance was slow, but beautiful and it was very clean. The book focused more on the mystery, but I still ate it up.
This is the first book in the series and it is really just a building block for future books. My only disappointment was that it didn't really end with a HEA, more of a "to be continued". I definitely will be continuing because my heart aches with wanting B and Gio to have an incredible HEA.
Beatrice or B, a goth girl, works in a library when she meets Gio, a mysterious gentleman. Beatrice was on to him, she didn't know what he was, but she knew he was different. He was intrigued and attracted to her, but fought it because of his nature...and he was 500 years older than her. There is a connection in their pasts that comes to light and brings them together to solve a mystery.
My brain is fried so here is a list of my thoughts and why I loved it:
Exceptional story- a lot of thought put into this one and development was fabulous AND it was a paranormal which I don't usually rate high
Not predictable because of it's unique plot, but it flowed smoothly
Great intrigue/mystery; Sort of surprising since a lot of it took place in a library transcribing books, it was anything but slow or boring like you would think
Sometimes confusing because of all the foreign names and vast amount of characters
Romance was slow, but beautiful and it was very clean. The book focused more on the mystery, but I still ate it up.
This is the first book in the series and it is really just a building block for future books. My only disappointment was that it didn't really end with a HEA, more of a "to be continued". I definitely will be continuing because my heart aches with wanting B and Gio to have an incredible HEA.
August 23, 2022
Finished Reading July 24, 2013
Update Aug. 22, 2022
I will NOT be continuing this series. No sex scenes in this one. Maybe in the next but I don't have time to waste with so many other books to read.
A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter
Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
3 Stars ?
A very belated review due to dates being messed up. So, since I have to edit the dates, etc. I might as well leave a review.
I read this back in 2013.
I remember liking it enough that I was interested in checking out the next book in this series. That didn't happen. This is for many different reasons, but mostly because I read so much, that on occasion a book, author or series gets a bit lost in my collection.
Unfortunately, I don't remember if there were any typos, errors and such. I think I remember it being a bit repetitive.
What I do remember is enjoying it enough that I wanted to look up more from this author and seriously consider reading book 2 in this series.
Hopefully, this will fix my GR dates, etc.
Prch Amz July 13, 2013
Update Aug. 22, 2022
I will NOT be continuing this series. No sex scenes in this one. Maybe in the next but I don't have time to waste with so many other books to read.
A Hidden Fire by Elizabeth Hunter
Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Suspense
3 Stars ?
A very belated review due to dates being messed up. So, since I have to edit the dates, etc. I might as well leave a review.
I read this back in 2013.
I remember liking it enough that I was interested in checking out the next book in this series. That didn't happen. This is for many different reasons, but mostly because I read so much, that on occasion a book, author or series gets a bit lost in my collection.
Unfortunately, I don't remember if there were any typos, errors and such. I think I remember it being a bit repetitive.
What I do remember is enjoying it enough that I wanted to look up more from this author and seriously consider reading book 2 in this series.
Hopefully, this will fix my GR dates, etc.
Prch Amz July 13, 2013
May 27, 2018
Oh, so this was interesting.
I had no idea I was reading a vampire romance....then I was kind of like, "YES A VAMPIRE ROMANCE...(SMUTTY!)MAYBE??..." In other words, I got caught in the sandwich line when I wanted pizza and decided to go with it. Because sandwiches are delicious.
I but I like my sandwiches with sex. Not even going to lie. If I wanted to read Twilight without sex, I'd , get this, read TWILIGHT!! Why have a super sexy 500 year old vampire as a love interest if he's just going to smell you and feel you up a little.
Apparently the next book continues in the same way, and while the book was fine I probably won't continue because sandwiches are great, but sandwiches with sex are better. Now I just have that damn feeling I wanted pizza all this time.
I had no idea I was reading a vampire romance....then I was kind of like, "YES A VAMPIRE ROMANCE...(SMUTTY!)MAYBE??..." In other words, I got caught in the sandwich line when I wanted pizza and decided to go with it. Because sandwiches are delicious.
I but I like my sandwiches with sex. Not even going to lie. If I wanted to read Twilight without sex, I'd , get this, read TWILIGHT!! Why have a super sexy 500 year old vampire as a love interest if he's just going to smell you and feel you up a little.
Apparently the next book continues in the same way, and while the book was fine I probably won't continue because sandwiches are great, but sandwiches with sex are better. Now I just have that damn feeling I wanted pizza all this time.
July 7, 2012
4.5 stars
A Hidden Fire is an inexpensive little treasure! Goodreads friends were all aflutter about it a few months back. A book challenge finally pushed me to read this new-to-me author. (Thank you, Beckyloohoo!)
This is book one of four. (Yes! A series with an ending! Oh, happy days!) The Elemental Mystery series focuses on two characters: Beatrice De Novo and Giovanni Vecchio. Their romance isn’t rushed and appears to evolve through the series. There isn’t instant love/lust and their attraction is simplified with obvious physical reactions. Books that bring them together! Then, the story’s mystery binds them tightly together.
I loved the characters! Beatrice and Giovanni are wrapped in satisfying layers. Gio’s backstory is lush in history and literature. He’s suave and cultured. His quiet observations of Beatrice gradually turn into furtive glances, adding a boyish quality that doesn’t emasculate his character. Though young (she’s twenty-two), Beatrice has had tragedy in her life. It altered her, yet she still possesses plenty of charm. She’s intelligent, observant, and has a way of expressing her individuality. B and Gio have real chemistry that’s set at a slow simmer.
The story may start slow for some readers. At least, it’s what I picked up from reading other reviews, but I didn’t feel that way. Ms. Hunter spends time developing her characters. She reveals them with dialogue and their actions. The reader is allowed to read between-the-lines and draw conclusions.
A Hidden Fire has mystery, romance, and some action. Plus, it’s emotional! The paranormal aspect of the story shows creativity. This book was a very enjoyable read for me and I would encourage other readers to give it a try! It’s a very inexpensive series in ebook format, which is a very nice bonus.
The Elemental Mystery series
A Hidden Fire (book 1)
This Same Earth (book 2)
The Force of Wind (book 3)
The Force of Water (book 4)…All the books have been released! Yay!
A spin-off series for Carwyn’s character is in the works. (He’s introduced in A Hidden Fire) Book one is titled Building from Ashes: Elemental World and is expected to release Winter 2012.
The Blurb -
A Hidden Fire is an inexpensive little treasure! Goodreads friends were all aflutter about it a few months back. A book challenge finally pushed me to read this new-to-me author. (Thank you, Beckyloohoo!)
This is book one of four. (Yes! A series with an ending! Oh, happy days!) The Elemental Mystery series focuses on two characters: Beatrice De Novo and Giovanni Vecchio. Their romance isn’t rushed and appears to evolve through the series. There isn’t instant love/lust and their attraction is simplified with obvious physical reactions. Books that bring them together! Then, the story’s mystery binds them tightly together.
”I’m sorry, what was your name?”
“Just call me B,” she said, glancing down at some handwritten notes. […]
“B? As in the second letter of the Latin alphabet?” he asked, walking closer to the desk.
“No, the Etruscan. I’m wild like that,” she muttered and glanced up.
I loved the characters! Beatrice and Giovanni are wrapped in satisfying layers. Gio’s backstory is lush in history and literature. He’s suave and cultured. His quiet observations of Beatrice gradually turn into furtive glances, adding a boyish quality that doesn’t emasculate his character. Though young (she’s twenty-two), Beatrice has had tragedy in her life. It altered her, yet she still possesses plenty of charm. She’s intelligent, observant, and has a way of expressing her individuality. B and Gio have real chemistry that’s set at a slow simmer.
The story may start slow for some readers. At least, it’s what I picked up from reading other reviews, but I didn’t feel that way. Ms. Hunter spends time developing her characters. She reveals them with dialogue and their actions. The reader is allowed to read between-the-lines and draw conclusions.
A Hidden Fire has mystery, romance, and some action. Plus, it’s emotional! The paranormal aspect of the story shows creativity. This book was a very enjoyable read for me and I would encourage other readers to give it a try! It’s a very inexpensive series in ebook format, which is a very nice bonus.
The Elemental Mystery series
A Hidden Fire (book 1)
This Same Earth (book 2)
The Force of Wind (book 3)
The Force of Water (book 4)…All the books have been released! Yay!
A spin-off series for Carwyn’s character is in the works. (He’s introduced in A Hidden Fire) Book one is titled Building from Ashes: Elemental World and is expected to release Winter 2012.
The Blurb -
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