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Elemental Legacy #0.25
Shadows and Gold
The first novella in the Elemental Legacy series:
SHADOWS AND GOLD
Failing grades. Misleading wind vampires. And a fortune in forgotten gold.
Traveling to the most remote region of China certainly wasn’t what Ben Vecchio had in mind for his summer vacation, but when Tenzin suggested a quick trip, he could hardly turn down a chance to keep her out of trouble and practice the Mandarin he still struggled with in class.
Of course, Tenzin might not have been clear about everything travel entailed.
Driving a truck full of rotting vegetables and twenty million in gold from Kashgar to Shanghai was only the start. If Ben can keep the treasure away from grasping immortals, the reward will be more than worth the effort. But when has travel with a five-thousand-year-old wind vampire ever been simple?
“What’s on the agenda for tonight?”
“I thought we’d go into Shanghai. Eat some fish. See the lights.”
“Okay.”
“Then maybe lure a traitor into the open before he steals my gold.”
Ben paused, thought, then gave her a nod. “Sure, sounds like fun.”
At least he was practicing his Chinese.
Right?
SHADOWS AND GOLD is a prequel novella in the Elemental Legacy series.
SHADOWS AND GOLD
Failing grades. Misleading wind vampires. And a fortune in forgotten gold.
Traveling to the most remote region of China certainly wasn’t what Ben Vecchio had in mind for his summer vacation, but when Tenzin suggested a quick trip, he could hardly turn down a chance to keep her out of trouble and practice the Mandarin he still struggled with in class.
Of course, Tenzin might not have been clear about everything travel entailed.
Driving a truck full of rotting vegetables and twenty million in gold from Kashgar to Shanghai was only the start. If Ben can keep the treasure away from grasping immortals, the reward will be more than worth the effort. But when has travel with a five-thousand-year-old wind vampire ever been simple?
“What’s on the agenda for tonight?”
“I thought we’d go into Shanghai. Eat some fish. See the lights.”
“Okay.”
“Then maybe lure a traitor into the open before he steals my gold.”
Ben paused, thought, then gave her a nod. “Sure, sounds like fun.”
At least he was practicing his Chinese.
Right?
SHADOWS AND GOLD is a prequel novella in the Elemental Legacy series.
128 pages, ebook
First published December 5, 2014
382 people are currently reading
1369 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Hunter
83 books6,277 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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September 12, 2017
Shadows and Gold is now available in audio!!
Amazon ->http://amzn.to/2wQOjnH
iTunes -> http://apple.co/2wR4H7P
Other sales links for e-book and paperback:
➜ Amazon: http://amzn.to/2aqrCe9
➜ iTunes: http://apple.co/2k22ex9
➜ Nook: http://bit.ly/2iDGJqq
➜ Kobo: http://bit.ly/2jB2V3O
➜ Smashwords: http://bit.ly/2k26zk8
So, I can't remember who came up with "Benzin" but I think it started showing up on my author page around the publication of Shadows and Gold, which is the first prequel novella for the Elemental Legacy series. This was the first book where I really wrote Ben and Tenzin as main characters and it was so much fun.
Not only was Ben mostly grown up, but he and Tenzin get to have their own adventures. It also launched me into this weird paranormal/suspense/mystery genre that was a new direction. And Tenzin just gets to fly around and do cool stuff. AS SHE DOES.
I hope you enjoy this book and if you haven't read it yet, then now is a great time to start! Not only is it available in audiobook, Midnight Labyrinth: An Elemental Legacy Novel is coming out in November.
November 20, 2014
4.5/5
Shadows and Gold was cheeky, sassy and wonderful. Ben and Tenzin are some of my favorite characters in Elemental World, and while in the beginning of this year we found out about Tenzin's past in The Bronze Blade, now we are finally participating in her present life. And what a life it is!
She is quirky, ruthless and very particular. I never know what she's going to do and what are her motives, and her partnership with Ben is pure perfection.
Ben grew up in a fine, fine young man. He's got so much character and sass, and his trip to Kashgar with Tenzin to pick some of her old gold cache only proved that he is starting to acquire a formidable reputation as a clever player in the wold of vampire intrigues. Cheng! I want more Cheng (get ready for an honest to god pirate!). Also, what an ending... I was laughing my behind off. Read it, it's fab!
Shadows and Gold was cheeky, sassy and wonderful. Ben and Tenzin are some of my favorite characters in Elemental World, and while in the beginning of this year we found out about Tenzin's past in The Bronze Blade, now we are finally participating in her present life. And what a life it is!
She is quirky, ruthless and very particular. I never know what she's going to do and what are her motives, and her partnership with Ben is pure perfection.
Ben grew up in a fine, fine young man. He's got so much character and sass, and his trip to Kashgar with Tenzin to pick some of her old gold cache only proved that he is starting to acquire a formidable reputation as a clever player in the wold of vampire intrigues. Cheng! I want more Cheng (get ready for an honest to god pirate!). Also, what an ending... I was laughing my behind off. Read it, it's fab!
June 1, 2015
I enjoyed this book tremendously. Fans of Ben and Tenzin will truly appreciate this. Gah, I can't wait for the next book.
Ben in that towel, my tongue was wagging. Tenzin he is not a boy anymore.
Ben in that towel, my tongue was wagging. Tenzin he is not a boy anymore.
December 8, 2014
4 stars= I really likeD it. Shadows and Gold offers up an adventure for ancient Wind vampire Tenzin and the now grownup Ben Vecchio and kicks off a new series with Ben in the lead - and does it in a very satisfying manner.
Boy, has Ben come along way from his beginnings as the street smart youngster adopted by vampire Giovanni. Ben is great here and coming into his own and learning to stand up to Tenzin - who also continues to be a fascinating character. I have always really liked the friendship/relationship between the two - the dynamic has always been interesting since Tenzin is an odd combination of ancient and not. Living as the ward to two immortals, Ben has been training his mind and body in order to give him the skills to hopefully survive in a world where his mortality is a definite liability and the trip to China to retrieve one of Tenzin's treasure troves gives him a chance to put some of those skills to use.
I really enjoyed this story and I am excited to see where Ben goes next - and whether he is forced into immortality against his wishes.
Complementary copy courtesy of the author.
Boy, has Ben come along way from his beginnings as the street smart youngster adopted by vampire Giovanni. Ben is great here and coming into his own and learning to stand up to Tenzin - who also continues to be a fascinating character. I have always really liked the friendship/relationship between the two - the dynamic has always been interesting since Tenzin is an odd combination of ancient and not. Living as the ward to two immortals, Ben has been training his mind and body in order to give him the skills to hopefully survive in a world where his mortality is a definite liability and the trip to China to retrieve one of Tenzin's treasure troves gives him a chance to put some of those skills to use.
I really enjoyed this story and I am excited to see where Ben goes next - and whether he is forced into immortality against his wishes.
Complementary copy courtesy of the author.
February 10, 2017
Ever since I read the Elemental Series which are fantastic by the way. I have wanted a book with Ben and Tenzin. They are great together. Tenzin has no sense of boundaries and their relationship is changing hopefully into what I want it to be.
I always pictured Tenzin to be younger in the other books so I’m glad that Ms. Hunter gave us a age reference. I loved how Ben calls Tenzin, Tiny.
Ms. Hunter has written a great introduction to the Elemental Legacy but for me it was too short. I need more. 4 Shadow and Gold Stars.
I always pictured Tenzin to be younger in the other books so I’m glad that Ms. Hunter gave us a age reference. I loved how Ben calls Tenzin, Tiny.
Ms. Hunter has written a great introduction to the Elemental Legacy but for me it was too short. I need more. 4 Shadow and Gold Stars.
June 9, 2024
I love Ben and Tenzin together! So much fun, banter, and arguments. I love that Ben calls her Tiny :) I can't wait to read more of their story; I hope their relationship continues in the direction I think/hope it's going.
February 7, 2015
Shadows and Gold by Elizabeth Hunter
An Elemental Legacy Novella
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 5/5 stars
My Review:
Let’s just take a moment to stop and appreciate the awesome that is Tenzin!!
And done . . . now on to the gushing about the awesome that is Tenzin.
Shadows and Gold is just what I have been waiting for and so much more than what I had hoped for. I knew Elizabeth Hunter would eventually deal with the whole:
"Tenzin?"
"Yes?"
"I'm bored."
"Me, too."
thing that happened at the end of A Fall of Water and though I was hoping the dealing with would have happened far more quickly than it did, I have to say, the wait was totally worth it. Tenzin is likely the most significant character in all of the Elemental World manifestations and to deal with her in short order would have been criminal.
Tenzin is the oldest of all the Elemental World characters and with that age comes a profound sense of isolation and loneliness. Tenzin has forgotten more than things than most will ever know, she has seen empires rise and fall, loved ones live and die and, through it all, Tenzin has endured. In only a very few instances across the great span of her existence has Tenzin allowed herself to become truly close to another living being. In this modern age and given her current associations, Ben Vecchio is the one Tenzin has allowed herself to become close too. Interesting.
From the moment Ben became a part of Tenzin’s world, she has – in her own special kind of way – liked the boy. Ben has proven himself to be everything Tenzin admires and respects: intelligent, quick, cunning, deadly in the right circumstances, always willing to partake in some crazy adventure and, absolutely loyal. Though still human, Ben has proven to be quite resilient and with his quick wit and skills has also proven to be one of Tenzin’s favored companions. With that being said, when Tenzin once again finds herself in need of a travelling companion and partner in crime, Ben is the first person she calls.
When one has lived as long as Tenzin, it often becomes necessary to shift one’s assets. When your Tenzin, assets often means large quantities of gold and goods that have been buried and/or in secret locations for centuries. Though Tenzin can certainly handle to vampire contingent in her current situation, she need Ben to physically move the gold and goods and transport everything to a new, safe location. The chance to travel with Tenzin and practice his abysmal Mandarin is something Ben just can’t turn down and if a little heavy lifting and some driving is all he has to do then so be it. Ben quickly discovers that Tenzin may have slightly undersold the exact nature of the adventure and before he can get his bearings, Ben finds himself embroiled in a vampire plot for control and revenge.
The Bottom Line: I always know I am going to get something good from Elizabeth Hunter but Shadows and Gold is so much more than just good. Tenzin has long been my favorite Elemental World character and to see her story continuing to evolve in such a fine, fun and, believable way is just fantastic. This read really highlights a few things regarding Tenzin: 1) despite her age, she is still capable of humor and a sort of childlike irreverence and; 2) even Tenzin isn’t immune to the affairs of the heart. In many ways, these highlights really open up a whole new world of possibilities for the aged vampire and I am incredibly excited to see where these possibilities will lead. Lest you think I have forgotten Ben in this summation, let me assure you, I have not. I think some of my love for Tenzin has to do with her relationship with Ben and that relationship definitely takes some intriguing turns in this read. Ben is growing up and given his physical training, he is growing into a beautiful body that is not going unnoticed by Tenzin. Ben is not at all afraid of Tenzin and one of the only being alive that will mouth off to the ancient and stand his ground in the face of the tiny terror. In so many (totally important!) ways, Ben is a beautiful balance to Tenzin and someone who can certainly help this powerful being to not only adjust to but thrive in the modern world. Though Ben is adamant in his decision to remain human, I can’t imagine Tenzin and by extension, Elizabeth Hunter will allow this business to continue. In short, Ben and Tenzin’s future should prove to be long, fun, fascinating and, dare I say, sexy!
An Elemental Legacy Novella
Source: Purchase
My Rating: 5/5 stars
My Review:
Let’s just take a moment to stop and appreciate the awesome that is Tenzin!!
And done . . . now on to the gushing about the awesome that is Tenzin.
Shadows and Gold is just what I have been waiting for and so much more than what I had hoped for. I knew Elizabeth Hunter would eventually deal with the whole:
"Tenzin?"
"Yes?"
"I'm bored."
"Me, too."
thing that happened at the end of A Fall of Water and though I was hoping the dealing with would have happened far more quickly than it did, I have to say, the wait was totally worth it. Tenzin is likely the most significant character in all of the Elemental World manifestations and to deal with her in short order would have been criminal.
Tenzin is the oldest of all the Elemental World characters and with that age comes a profound sense of isolation and loneliness. Tenzin has forgotten more than things than most will ever know, she has seen empires rise and fall, loved ones live and die and, through it all, Tenzin has endured. In only a very few instances across the great span of her existence has Tenzin allowed herself to become truly close to another living being. In this modern age and given her current associations, Ben Vecchio is the one Tenzin has allowed herself to become close too. Interesting.
From the moment Ben became a part of Tenzin’s world, she has – in her own special kind of way – liked the boy. Ben has proven himself to be everything Tenzin admires and respects: intelligent, quick, cunning, deadly in the right circumstances, always willing to partake in some crazy adventure and, absolutely loyal. Though still human, Ben has proven to be quite resilient and with his quick wit and skills has also proven to be one of Tenzin’s favored companions. With that being said, when Tenzin once again finds herself in need of a travelling companion and partner in crime, Ben is the first person she calls.
When one has lived as long as Tenzin, it often becomes necessary to shift one’s assets. When your Tenzin, assets often means large quantities of gold and goods that have been buried and/or in secret locations for centuries. Though Tenzin can certainly handle to vampire contingent in her current situation, she need Ben to physically move the gold and goods and transport everything to a new, safe location. The chance to travel with Tenzin and practice his abysmal Mandarin is something Ben just can’t turn down and if a little heavy lifting and some driving is all he has to do then so be it. Ben quickly discovers that Tenzin may have slightly undersold the exact nature of the adventure and before he can get his bearings, Ben finds himself embroiled in a vampire plot for control and revenge.
The Bottom Line: I always know I am going to get something good from Elizabeth Hunter but Shadows and Gold is so much more than just good. Tenzin has long been my favorite Elemental World character and to see her story continuing to evolve in such a fine, fun and, believable way is just fantastic. This read really highlights a few things regarding Tenzin: 1) despite her age, she is still capable of humor and a sort of childlike irreverence and; 2) even Tenzin isn’t immune to the affairs of the heart. In many ways, these highlights really open up a whole new world of possibilities for the aged vampire and I am incredibly excited to see where these possibilities will lead. Lest you think I have forgotten Ben in this summation, let me assure you, I have not. I think some of my love for Tenzin has to do with her relationship with Ben and that relationship definitely takes some intriguing turns in this read. Ben is growing up and given his physical training, he is growing into a beautiful body that is not going unnoticed by Tenzin. Ben is not at all afraid of Tenzin and one of the only being alive that will mouth off to the ancient and stand his ground in the face of the tiny terror. In so many (totally important!) ways, Ben is a beautiful balance to Tenzin and someone who can certainly help this powerful being to not only adjust to but thrive in the modern world. Though Ben is adamant in his decision to remain human, I can’t imagine Tenzin and by extension, Elizabeth Hunter will allow this business to continue. In short, Ben and Tenzin’s future should prove to be long, fun, fascinating and, dare I say, sexy!
October 17, 2015
Elizabeth Hunter is a freak of nature and I mean that in the most positive way. Everything she writes is just pure gold. Her stories never disappoint. It's truly extraordinary.
"Shadows and Gold" is no different.
This novella focuses on Ben and Tenzin and their trip to China.
Those two characters are amazing and the dynamic between them is all sorts of things - funny, harmonious, sweet, caring, gentle, challenging and sexy.
It's so weird to see Ben all grown up and all man. But he definitely is and I would be lying if I said he isn't sexy as hell. He's smart and strong, yet caring and sweet. And he doesn't need to be a bad boy or alpha to be attractive. It comes naturally to him.
And Tenzin, well...she's Tenzin. Unpredictable, crazy, fiercely protective of the ones she cares about and has enough sass for another few thousand years to come. Knowing her history from
, the things she does and says have even more meaning now, giving her personality an additional layer.
Those two combined are amazing. They are so similar, yet so different and through that they complete each other - as friends and maybe one day even more than that. Their banter had me smiling all the way through the story. They are perfect together.
What made the story even better was Cheng. A vampire pirate?!?!? Seriously?!?! I mean, how does it get better and hotter than that. He so needs his own book.
"Shadows Of Gold" took me on a journey through China - allowing me to experience this country without even leaving my sofa.
5+ I-need-more-of-Cheng stars.
"Shadows and Gold" is no different.
This novella focuses on Ben and Tenzin and their trip to China.
Those two characters are amazing and the dynamic between them is all sorts of things - funny, harmonious, sweet, caring, gentle, challenging and sexy.
It's so weird to see Ben all grown up and all man. But he definitely is and I would be lying if I said he isn't sexy as hell. He's smart and strong, yet caring and sweet. And he doesn't need to be a bad boy or alpha to be attractive. It comes naturally to him.
And Tenzin, well...she's Tenzin. Unpredictable, crazy, fiercely protective of the ones she cares about and has enough sass for another few thousand years to come. Knowing her history from
, the things she does and says have even more meaning now, giving her personality an additional layer. Those two combined are amazing. They are so similar, yet so different and through that they complete each other - as friends and maybe one day even more than that. Their banter had me smiling all the way through the story. They are perfect together.
What made the story even better was Cheng. A vampire pirate?!?!? Seriously?!?! I mean, how does it get better and hotter than that. He so needs his own book.
"Shadows Of Gold" took me on a journey through China - allowing me to experience this country without even leaving my sofa.
5+ I-need-more-of-Cheng stars.
April 12, 2024
I love this author and am very glad that she is continuing in the same world with characters I have come to love. This new series takes on adventures with two characters who have been seen but never fully explored like the rest. Ben and Tenzin have an interesting dynamic and will be doing things that will keep us jumping. We get to see Ben's world expand even more as he tries to find his place in a world of vampires.
Tenzin sees a news program about the destruction of a province in China and pulls Ben into her scheme to get her hoard of treasure out of the company illegally. Ben goes along at first because he wants a chance to improve his Mandarin because the start of the new semester and what better place than China to do that. When he finds out why Tenzin has really brought him along he agrees to continue as long as she gives him his pick of items.
He had hoped to keep Tenzin out of trouble, but who can keep a 5000 year old wind vampire who finds trouble everywhere out of it.
This is a wonderful start and I cannot wait to see where it takes us in terms of locations and the relationship between Ben and Tenzin. This had a nice mix of tension and violence with some interesting new characters. I think anyone who likes the Elemental vampires will like this.
Tenzin sees a news program about the destruction of a province in China and pulls Ben into her scheme to get her hoard of treasure out of the company illegally. Ben goes along at first because he wants a chance to improve his Mandarin because the start of the new semester and what better place than China to do that. When he finds out why Tenzin has really brought him along he agrees to continue as long as she gives him his pick of items.
He had hoped to keep Tenzin out of trouble, but who can keep a 5000 year old wind vampire who finds trouble everywhere out of it.
This is a wonderful start and I cannot wait to see where it takes us in terms of locations and the relationship between Ben and Tenzin. This had a nice mix of tension and violence with some interesting new characters. I think anyone who likes the Elemental vampires will like this.
April 5, 2015
Another good one from EH and the Elemental Mysteries series. So excited over the upcoming Elemental Legacies series featuring Ben!!! WooHoo!!!
June 4, 2017
An intriguing taste of Tenzin and Ben. Can't wait for their full story.
September 27, 2018
I'm starting the like this spin off series (well, with Elizabeth Hunter, you can't go not liking her books!) and this my first read of the Elemental Lagacy! Look forward to next book on Ben And Tiny!
November 27, 2019
I'd probably give this 5 stars if I hadn't had to switch from the audiobook to the ebook.
The story is great - Ben and Tenzin on a great adventure in China, the vampires we all love, and a focus shifting from the previous series and its characters. Poor Ben is at Tenzin's mercy and yet he doesn't give up on her. The way this relationship starts building is wonderful. Add to that all the action that happens and you have a great story. As usual, Hunter's descriptions of the setting put you right there. I feel like I've tasted and smelled and felt the muggy heat of Shanghai.
HOWEVER.
The audiobook narrator Sean William Doyle was awful. I had to stop listening and switch to the ebook because it was just so wrong. As an avid audiobook listener, the problems I had just kept coming:
1. While he's an average "narrator" or reader, his use of emphasis and emotion were generally off.
2. He drops the ends of some sentences. Maybe that's great for effect if you're wearing earbuds, but if you're listening on some sort of bluetooth (or other) speaker, what he says gets lost because you simply can't hear it.
3. Tenzin is a small person from Asia. She might be 5000 years old but she's pretty much stuck at her late teens or early 20's. And she's a young soul, a little crazy. So in my mind, she's got a pretty high-pitched voice with at least a Chinese/Tibetan accent. She takes a generally light-hearted tone with Ben, even when she's viewing him as very young from her own ancient perspective.
So when Doyle voices her as a 40-ish woman who's slightly alluring, it's just wrong, wrong, wrong. That's part of why I had to stop listening. I did not hear Tenzin. Not even close.
4. Jonathan has a distinct British accent. Hunter even specifically says that he replies to Tenzin this way. But did we hear a British accent? Nope. Doyle did him in every other voice that he did every other character. There was no distinction. None of the Chinese vampires had Chinese accents either. Nope, we just got more of Doyle reading the book.
While that's just 4 specific criticisms of the narration, it pretty much encompasses the whole listening experience. Doyle needs to be doing non-fiction, or perhaps military fiction or sci-fi or honestly anything else than this series of books. Voicing an audiobook these days calls for a voice actor, especially with a story like this. Virtually every book I choose has a voice actor bringing the story to life for me.
I'm so disappointed.
Elizabeth Hunter writes great books, highly entertaining, great romance, memorable characters who are well developed, interesting plots. To have Sean William Doyle absolutely ruin this series on audio is just tragic. She produced the audio herself, so she essentially chose the narrator. I wish she'd asked more (or any) audiobook listeners about the casting, because I can think of at least 5 narrators right off the top of my head who would have made this book amazing. I have no idea how much they cost to have narrate a book and I realise that publishing is a business. But if you're going to spend the money to have a book narrated on audio, at least spend it well on someone who can do the best job and really make the book even better. I expected the quality of narration that we got with Zachary Webber in her original first 3 Irin Chronicles books and Dina Perlman with the original Elemental Mysteries series. I certainly didn't expect the terrible narration we got with Doyle.
I'm going to continue with this series, but it will be slow going. I seldom read anything in print anymore and if a series or book isn't well done on audio, I skip it. There are just too many books by too many great authors to waste time on one that's badly done. What a shame, because this is a great series.
The story is great - Ben and Tenzin on a great adventure in China, the vampires we all love, and a focus shifting from the previous series and its characters. Poor Ben is at Tenzin's mercy and yet he doesn't give up on her. The way this relationship starts building is wonderful. Add to that all the action that happens and you have a great story. As usual, Hunter's descriptions of the setting put you right there. I feel like I've tasted and smelled and felt the muggy heat of Shanghai.
HOWEVER.
The audiobook narrator Sean William Doyle was awful. I had to stop listening and switch to the ebook because it was just so wrong. As an avid audiobook listener, the problems I had just kept coming:
1. While he's an average "narrator" or reader, his use of emphasis and emotion were generally off.
2. He drops the ends of some sentences. Maybe that's great for effect if you're wearing earbuds, but if you're listening on some sort of bluetooth (or other) speaker, what he says gets lost because you simply can't hear it.
3. Tenzin is a small person from Asia. She might be 5000 years old but she's pretty much stuck at her late teens or early 20's. And she's a young soul, a little crazy. So in my mind, she's got a pretty high-pitched voice with at least a Chinese/Tibetan accent. She takes a generally light-hearted tone with Ben, even when she's viewing him as very young from her own ancient perspective.
So when Doyle voices her as a 40-ish woman who's slightly alluring, it's just wrong, wrong, wrong. That's part of why I had to stop listening. I did not hear Tenzin. Not even close.
4. Jonathan has a distinct British accent. Hunter even specifically says that he replies to Tenzin this way. But did we hear a British accent? Nope. Doyle did him in every other voice that he did every other character. There was no distinction. None of the Chinese vampires had Chinese accents either. Nope, we just got more of Doyle reading the book.
While that's just 4 specific criticisms of the narration, it pretty much encompasses the whole listening experience. Doyle needs to be doing non-fiction, or perhaps military fiction or sci-fi or honestly anything else than this series of books. Voicing an audiobook these days calls for a voice actor, especially with a story like this. Virtually every book I choose has a voice actor bringing the story to life for me.
I'm so disappointed.
Elizabeth Hunter writes great books, highly entertaining, great romance, memorable characters who are well developed, interesting plots. To have Sean William Doyle absolutely ruin this series on audio is just tragic. She produced the audio herself, so she essentially chose the narrator. I wish she'd asked more (or any) audiobook listeners about the casting, because I can think of at least 5 narrators right off the top of my head who would have made this book amazing. I have no idea how much they cost to have narrate a book and I realise that publishing is a business. But if you're going to spend the money to have a book narrated on audio, at least spend it well on someone who can do the best job and really make the book even better. I expected the quality of narration that we got with Zachary Webber in her original first 3 Irin Chronicles books and Dina Perlman with the original Elemental Mysteries series. I certainly didn't expect the terrible narration we got with Doyle.
I'm going to continue with this series, but it will be slow going. I seldom read anything in print anymore and if a series or book isn't well done on audio, I skip it. There are just too many books by too many great authors to waste time on one that's badly done. What a shame, because this is a great series.
March 29, 2019
Elemental Legacy #0.25
Shadows and Gold by Elizabeth Hunter
Like the Elemental Mysteries series, which features primarily Beatrice (B) De Novo & Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio, the Elemental Legacy series features Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio & Tenzin, with appearances by many of the well-known Elemental World characters as well as introductions to many new characters within the Elemental Universe.
This book gives us our first real look at how the friendship between Tenzin and Ben has progressed and how it will change now that Ben is an adult. As two of the more interesting characters from the Elemental Mysteries series, I'm glad to see that the adventures of Tenzin and Ben are getting their own series, instead of being contained to just one book!
I love the Elemental universe, and I suggest reading all the books. There are three series that make up the Elemental Universe: Elemental Mysteries, Elemental World, and Elemental Legacy. I have listed them all below.
Elemental Universe books in my preferred reading order:
1. A Hidden Fire – Elemental Mysteries #1 – Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio and Beatrice (B) De Novo
2. This Same Earth – Elemental Mysteries #2 – Giovanni and Beatrice
3. The Force of Wind – Elemental Mysteries #3 – Giovanni and Beatrice
4. A Fall of Water – Elemental Mysteries #4 – Giovanni and Beatrice
5. Building From Ashes – Elemental World #1 – Carwyn ap Bryn and Brigid Connor
6. Waterlocked – Elemental World #1.5 – Terrence (Terry) Ramsey and Gemma Melcombe
7. A Not-so-Special Night found in The Stars Afire anthology - Elemental Mysteries #4.1 – Ben, Giovanni, Beatrice and Tenzin
8. Blood and Sand – Elemental World #2 – Baojia and Natalie Ellis
9. The Bronze Blade – Elemental World #2.5 – Tenzin
10. Merry Christmas Tenzin found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.2 – Ben, Tenzin, Giovanni and Beatrice
11. All the Stars Look Down (Anthology) Lost Letters and Christmas Lights can also be found in The Stars Afire – Elemental Mysteries #4.5 – Giovanni and Beatrice as well as, Zeno Ferrera and Serafina (Fina) Rossi
12. The Scarlet Deep – Elemental World #3 – Patrick Murphy and Anne O’Dea
13. A Very Proper Monster also found in the Anthology Beneath a Waning Moon – Elemental World #3.5 - Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw
14. Shadows and Gold – Elemental Legacy #0.25 – Tenzin and Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio
15. Imitation and Alchemy – Elemental Legacy #0.5 – Tenzin and Ben
16. A Stone-Kissed Sea – Elemental World #4 – Lucien Thrax and Dr. Makeda Abel
17. Omens and Artifacts – Elemental Legacy #0.75 – Tenzin and Ben
18. Night in the Waking City, found in “A Very Proper Monster” – Elemental World #4.5 – Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw with a little help from Tenzin and Ben
19. Midnight Labyrinth – Elemental Legacy #1 – Tenzin and Ben
20. Finding Richard found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.6 – Giovanni, Beatrice, Ben, Tenzin, Gavin and Chloe
21. Desires of the Heart found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.7 – Giovanni & Beatrice
22. Blood Apprentice – Elemental Legacy #2 – Tenzin and Ben
23. The Devil and the Dancer – Elemental Legacy #2.5 – Gavin Wallace and Chloe Reardon
24. More to come…
Read:
July 6, 2015 - Kindle Edition
March 23-24, 2016 - Kindle Edition
February 4, 2017 - Kindle Edition
December 30, 2017 – Kindle Edition
March 15-16, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
March 28, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
Shadows and Gold by Elizabeth HunterLike the Elemental Mysteries series, which features primarily Beatrice (B) De Novo & Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio, the Elemental Legacy series features Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio & Tenzin, with appearances by many of the well-known Elemental World characters as well as introductions to many new characters within the Elemental Universe.
This book gives us our first real look at how the friendship between Tenzin and Ben has progressed and how it will change now that Ben is an adult. As two of the more interesting characters from the Elemental Mysteries series, I'm glad to see that the adventures of Tenzin and Ben are getting their own series, instead of being contained to just one book!
I love the Elemental universe, and I suggest reading all the books. There are three series that make up the Elemental Universe: Elemental Mysteries, Elemental World, and Elemental Legacy. I have listed them all below.
Elemental Universe books in my preferred reading order:
1. A Hidden Fire – Elemental Mysteries #1 – Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio and Beatrice (B) De Novo
2. This Same Earth – Elemental Mysteries #2 – Giovanni and Beatrice
3. The Force of Wind – Elemental Mysteries #3 – Giovanni and Beatrice
4. A Fall of Water – Elemental Mysteries #4 – Giovanni and Beatrice
5. Building From Ashes – Elemental World #1 – Carwyn ap Bryn and Brigid Connor
6. Waterlocked – Elemental World #1.5 – Terrence (Terry) Ramsey and Gemma Melcombe
7. A Not-so-Special Night found in The Stars Afire anthology - Elemental Mysteries #4.1 – Ben, Giovanni, Beatrice and Tenzin
8. Blood and Sand – Elemental World #2 – Baojia and Natalie Ellis
9. The Bronze Blade – Elemental World #2.5 – Tenzin
10. Merry Christmas Tenzin found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.2 – Ben, Tenzin, Giovanni and Beatrice
11. All the Stars Look Down (Anthology) Lost Letters and Christmas Lights can also be found in The Stars Afire – Elemental Mysteries #4.5 – Giovanni and Beatrice as well as, Zeno Ferrera and Serafina (Fina) Rossi
12. The Scarlet Deep – Elemental World #3 – Patrick Murphy and Anne O’Dea
13. A Very Proper Monster also found in the Anthology Beneath a Waning Moon – Elemental World #3.5 - Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw
14. Shadows and Gold – Elemental Legacy #0.25 – Tenzin and Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio
15. Imitation and Alchemy – Elemental Legacy #0.5 – Tenzin and Ben
16. A Stone-Kissed Sea – Elemental World #4 – Lucien Thrax and Dr. Makeda Abel
17. Omens and Artifacts – Elemental Legacy #0.75 – Tenzin and Ben
18. Night in the Waking City, found in “A Very Proper Monster” – Elemental World #4.5 – Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw with a little help from Tenzin and Ben
19. Midnight Labyrinth – Elemental Legacy #1 – Tenzin and Ben
20. Finding Richard found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.6 – Giovanni, Beatrice, Ben, Tenzin, Gavin and Chloe
21. Desires of the Heart found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.7 – Giovanni & Beatrice
22. Blood Apprentice – Elemental Legacy #2 – Tenzin and Ben
23. The Devil and the Dancer – Elemental Legacy #2.5 – Gavin Wallace and Chloe Reardon
24. More to come…
Read:
July 6, 2015 - Kindle Edition
March 23-24, 2016 - Kindle Edition
February 4, 2017 - Kindle Edition
December 30, 2017 – Kindle Edition
March 15-16, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
March 28, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
January 4, 2024
It's been so long since i have been in this world.
I loved catching up with Tenzin and Ben from the Elemental world, god how i have missed being back with old favourite characters.
Tenzin has got personal space issues and Ben is such a sweetheart but knows how to defend himself from Vampires, can't wait to see where this is going with these two characters as they are so different but they work together.
I loved catching up with Tenzin and Ben from the Elemental world, god how i have missed being back with old favourite characters.
Tenzin has got personal space issues and Ben is such a sweetheart but knows how to defend himself from Vampires, can't wait to see where this is going with these two characters as they are so different but they work together.
November 17, 2017
Location: Kashgar and Shanghai
Tenzin:
Ben:
Tenzin:
Ben:
October 11, 2019
Fun easy read!
I wasn't sure about reading this series, as I loved the Elemental Mysteries, Geo and B's story was an amazing adventure. I am happy to see Ben's personality is the same yet he's matured. It's a fun story that is a light enjoyable story that has a great pace. Never a dull moment!
I wasn't sure about reading this series, as I loved the Elemental Mysteries, Geo and B's story was an amazing adventure. I am happy to see Ben's personality is the same yet he's matured. It's a fun story that is a light enjoyable story that has a great pace. Never a dull moment!
November 23, 2016
I love all the elemental books and have been so sad when I finish a book, but so happy to know that with each book I get to experience another character in the elemental world. This story was one that intrigued me because I always felt Ben and Tenzin had such a special relationship and connection. In the other books you get to know Ben as he is younger and learning about his new world/life. When I started reading this book it was a shock to hear how grown up and such an amazing young man Ben has grown up to be. And you can see how Tenzin and Ben's relationship has changed yet stayed the same over the years. At times I was shocked to feel like Tenzin used and misled Ben. I was trying not to yell "put your foot down" "tell her how you feel" but in the end you know that their relationship is a special bond and no matter the crazy adventure Tenzin has in store for Ben he will always be at he side protecting her and she will always be at his side protecting him. I can't wait to see where their adventures take them and how much Ben gets tricked into doing!
As with each one of Elizabeth Hunters books I am sad to come to the end of each book, yet I am excited to start the next adventure and story. I just hope they never end!!!!
As with each one of Elizabeth Hunters books I am sad to come to the end of each book, yet I am excited to start the next adventure and story. I just hope they never end!!!!
May 25, 2017
Ben and Tenzin get their own series?! Please excuse me while I freak out!
Don't get me wrong, I loved Gio and B and the rest of the gang, but Tenzin has been my spirit animal since book 2, and Ben has become one of my favorite characters, ever. I love how their friendship has grown over the years, and how much they've come to trust each other. It's honestly been a thing of beauty to read, and I'm so, so ecstatic they're getting their own books.
And seriously, the set up to this has left me completely in awe of Elizabeth Hunter's brain. I don't know if she always intended to get their story to this point and literally spent the last FIVE YEARS building up anticipation, but either way that's impressive!
Don't get me wrong, I loved Gio and B and the rest of the gang, but Tenzin has been my spirit animal since book 2, and Ben has become one of my favorite characters, ever. I love how their friendship has grown over the years, and how much they've come to trust each other. It's honestly been a thing of beauty to read, and I'm so, so ecstatic they're getting their own books.
And seriously, the set up to this has left me completely in awe of Elizabeth Hunter's brain. I don't know if she always intended to get their story to this point and literally spent the last FIVE YEARS building up anticipation, but either way that's impressive!
February 19, 2019
Re-read: February 2019
It's been so long that I forgot I read it so long ago. The story is just as good and the review below still stands. Highly recommend!
Read: December 2014
Great beginning
This novella by Elizabeth Hunter was amusing, entertaining, and full of promise of a future series in the Elemental World. I enjoyed the back and forth banter and narrative from the two main characters, Ben and Tensin. I can't wait to see where this new series goes.
It's been so long that I forgot I read it so long ago. The story is just as good and the review below still stands. Highly recommend!
Read: December 2014
Great beginning
This novella by Elizabeth Hunter was amusing, entertaining, and full of promise of a future series in the Elemental World. I enjoyed the back and forth banter and narrative from the two main characters, Ben and Tensin. I can't wait to see where this new series goes.
June 3, 2015
This was entertaining especially for a novella. I've neglected the spin off books in this series for too long now. I've always had a soft spot for Ben and it was cool to see him all grown up. Tenzin had me lol'ing at times too. I'm glad I finally read this and I won't be neglecting these books again!
November 16, 2017
Absolutely brilliant
I was just taking a chance to try this book and only knew the blurb. What a wonderful surprise! Quick, witty and so enjoyable. I cannot recommend highly enough. Truly time we'll spent and I'm on to the next one.
I was just taking a chance to try this book and only knew the blurb. What a wonderful surprise! Quick, witty and so enjoyable. I cannot recommend highly enough. Truly time we'll spent and I'm on to the next one.
March 27, 2018
I LOVE Ben and Tenzin!!
I’m so so so excited Ms. Hunter is writing Ben & Tenzin’s story and adventures!! I seriously freakin LOVE this world and all of the characters!! Gotta go, I’m off to read the next novella!!
I’m so so so excited Ms. Hunter is writing Ben & Tenzin’s story and adventures!! I seriously freakin LOVE this world and all of the characters!! Gotta go, I’m off to read the next novella!!
June 28, 2022
Loved!
When Ben goes on an adventure with Tenzin to protect her gold from being stolen, he gets more than he bargained for.
Tenzin always makes me laugh, what she ropes Ben into had me on the floor.
A must read!!
When Ben goes on an adventure with Tenzin to protect her gold from being stolen, he gets more than he bargained for.
Tenzin always makes me laugh, what she ropes Ben into had me on the floor.
A must read!!
March 3, 2016
I liked this novella. A nice little adventure for Ben and Tenzin. BUT I am more than ready for their full blown epic love story. NEED IT NOW! Please, Elizabeth Hunter. This was just a tease.
October 27, 2023
Elemental Legacy #0.25
Shadows and Gold by Elizabeth Hunter
Like the Elemental Mysteries series, which features primarily Beatrice (B) De Novo & Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio, the Elemental Legacy series features Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio & Tenzin, with appearances by many of the well-known Elemental World characters as well as introductions to many new characters within the Elemental Universe.
This book gives us our first real look at how the friendship between Tenzin and Ben has progressed and how it will change now that Ben is an adult. As two of the more interesting characters from the Elemental Mysteries series, I'm glad to see that the adventures of Tenzin and Ben are getting their own series, instead of being contained to just one book!
I love the Elemental universe, and I suggest reading all the books. There are three series that make up the Elemental Universe: Elemental Mysteries, Elemental World, and Elemental Legacy. I have listed them all below.
Elemental Universe books in my preferred reading order:
1. A Hidden Fire – Elemental Mysteries #1 – Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio and Beatrice (B) De Novo
2. This Same Earth – Elemental Mysteries #2 – Giovanni and Beatrice
3. The Force of Wind – Elemental Mysteries #3 – Giovanni and Beatrice
4. A Fall of Water – Elemental Mysteries #4 – Giovanni and Beatrice
5. Building From Ashes – Elemental World #1 – Carwyn ap Bryn and Brigid Connor
6. A Not-so-Special Night found in The Stars Afire anthology - Elemental Mysteries #4.1 – Ben, Giovanni, Beatrice and Tenzin
7. Waterlocked – Elemental World #1.5 – Terrence (Terry) Ramsey and Gemma Melcombe
8. Blood and Sand – Elemental World #2 – Baojia and Natalie Ellis
9. Merry Christmas Tenzin found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.2 – Ben, Tenzin, Giovanni and Beatrice
10. The Bronze Blade – Elemental World #2.5 – Tenzin
11. All the Stars Look Down (Anthology) Lost Letters and Christmas Lights can also be found in The Stars Afire – Elemental Mysteries #4.5 – Giovanni and Beatrice as well as, Zeno Ferrera and Serafina (Fina) Rossi
12. A Very Proper Monster also found in the Anthology Beneath a Waning Moon – Elemental World #3.5 - Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw
13. The Scarlet Deep – Elemental World #3 – Patrick Murphy and Anne O’Dea
14. Shadows and Gold – Elemental Legacy #0.25 – Tenzin and Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio
15. Imitation and Alchemy – Elemental Legacy #0.5 – Tenzin and Ben
16. A Stone-Kissed Sea – Elemental World #4 – Lucien Thrax and Dr. Makeda Abel
17. Omens and Artifacts – Elemental Legacy #0.75 – Tenzin and Ben
18. Night in the Waking City, found in “A Very Proper Monster” – Elemental World #4.5 – Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw with a little help from Tenzin and Ben
19. Midnight Labyrinth – Elemental Legacy #1 – Tenzin and Ben
20. Finding Richard found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.6 – Giovanni, Beatrice, Ben, Tenzin, Gavin and Chloe
21. Desires of the Heart found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.7 – Giovanni & Beatrice
22. Blood Apprentice – Elemental Legacy #2 – Tenzin and Ben
23. The Devil and the Dancer – Elemental Legacy #2.5 – Gavin Wallace and Chloe Reardon
24. Night's Reckoning – Elemental Legacy #3 – Tenzin and Ben
25. Valley of the Shadow – Elemental World #4.5 – Baojia and Natalie
26. Dawn Caravan – Elemental Legacy #4 – Tenzin and Ben
27. Saint's Passage – Elemental Covenant #1 – Carwyn and Brigid
28. The Bone Scroll – Elemental Legacy #5 – Tenzin and Ben
29. Martyr's Promise – Elemental Covenant #2 – Carwyn and Brigid
30. The Dancer and the Dark – Elemental Legacy #5.5 – Gavin and Chloe
31. Paladin's Kiss – Elemental Covenant #3 – Carwyn and Brigid
32. Pearl Sky space – Elemental Legacy #6 – Tenzin and Ben
33. Bishops Flight – Elemental Covenant #4 – Carwyn and Brigid
34. More to come…
Read:
July 6, 2015 - Kindle Edition
March 23-24, 2016 - Kindle Edition
February 4, 2017 - Kindle Edition
December 30, 2017 – Kindle Edition
March 15-16, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
March 28, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
December 2, 2018 – Audible Audiobook
July 23, 2020 – Audible Audiobook
September 4, 2020 – Audible Audiobook
December 3-4 2022 – Audible Audiobook
October 18-19, 2023 – Audible Audiobook
Shadows and Gold by Elizabeth HunterLike the Elemental Mysteries series, which features primarily Beatrice (B) De Novo & Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio, the Elemental Legacy series features Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio & Tenzin, with appearances by many of the well-known Elemental World characters as well as introductions to many new characters within the Elemental Universe.
This book gives us our first real look at how the friendship between Tenzin and Ben has progressed and how it will change now that Ben is an adult. As two of the more interesting characters from the Elemental Mysteries series, I'm glad to see that the adventures of Tenzin and Ben are getting their own series, instead of being contained to just one book!
I love the Elemental universe, and I suggest reading all the books. There are three series that make up the Elemental Universe: Elemental Mysteries, Elemental World, and Elemental Legacy. I have listed them all below.
Elemental Universe books in my preferred reading order:
1. A Hidden Fire – Elemental Mysteries #1 – Giovanni (Gio) Vecchio and Beatrice (B) De Novo
2. This Same Earth – Elemental Mysteries #2 – Giovanni and Beatrice
3. The Force of Wind – Elemental Mysteries #3 – Giovanni and Beatrice
4. A Fall of Water – Elemental Mysteries #4 – Giovanni and Beatrice
5. Building From Ashes – Elemental World #1 – Carwyn ap Bryn and Brigid Connor
6. A Not-so-Special Night found in The Stars Afire anthology - Elemental Mysteries #4.1 – Ben, Giovanni, Beatrice and Tenzin
7. Waterlocked – Elemental World #1.5 – Terrence (Terry) Ramsey and Gemma Melcombe
8. Blood and Sand – Elemental World #2 – Baojia and Natalie Ellis
9. Merry Christmas Tenzin found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.2 – Ben, Tenzin, Giovanni and Beatrice
10. The Bronze Blade – Elemental World #2.5 – Tenzin
11. All the Stars Look Down (Anthology) Lost Letters and Christmas Lights can also be found in The Stars Afire – Elemental Mysteries #4.5 – Giovanni and Beatrice as well as, Zeno Ferrera and Serafina (Fina) Rossi
12. A Very Proper Monster also found in the Anthology Beneath a Waning Moon – Elemental World #3.5 - Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw
13. The Scarlet Deep – Elemental World #3 – Patrick Murphy and Anne O’Dea
14. Shadows and Gold – Elemental Legacy #0.25 – Tenzin and Benjamin (Ben) Vecchio
15. Imitation and Alchemy – Elemental Legacy #0.5 – Tenzin and Ben
16. A Stone-Kissed Sea – Elemental World #4 – Lucien Thrax and Dr. Makeda Abel
17. Omens and Artifacts – Elemental Legacy #0.75 – Tenzin and Ben
18. Night in the Waking City, found in “A Very Proper Monster” – Elemental World #4.5 – Tom Dargin and Josephine (Josie) Shaw with a little help from Tenzin and Ben
19. Midnight Labyrinth – Elemental Legacy #1 – Tenzin and Ben
20. Finding Richard found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.6 – Giovanni, Beatrice, Ben, Tenzin, Gavin and Chloe
21. Desires of the Heart found in The Stars Afire anthology – Elemental Mysteries #4.7 – Giovanni & Beatrice
22. Blood Apprentice – Elemental Legacy #2 – Tenzin and Ben
23. The Devil and the Dancer – Elemental Legacy #2.5 – Gavin Wallace and Chloe Reardon
24. Night's Reckoning – Elemental Legacy #3 – Tenzin and Ben
25. Valley of the Shadow – Elemental World #4.5 – Baojia and Natalie
26. Dawn Caravan – Elemental Legacy #4 – Tenzin and Ben
27. Saint's Passage – Elemental Covenant #1 – Carwyn and Brigid
28. The Bone Scroll – Elemental Legacy #5 – Tenzin and Ben
29. Martyr's Promise – Elemental Covenant #2 – Carwyn and Brigid
30. The Dancer and the Dark – Elemental Legacy #5.5 – Gavin and Chloe
31. Paladin's Kiss – Elemental Covenant #3 – Carwyn and Brigid
32. Pearl Sky space – Elemental Legacy #6 – Tenzin and Ben
33. Bishops Flight – Elemental Covenant #4 – Carwyn and Brigid
34. More to come…
Read:
July 6, 2015 - Kindle Edition
March 23-24, 2016 - Kindle Edition
February 4, 2017 - Kindle Edition
December 30, 2017 – Kindle Edition
March 15-16, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
March 28, 2019 – Audible AudioBook
December 2, 2018 – Audible Audiobook
July 23, 2020 – Audible Audiobook
September 4, 2020 – Audible Audiobook
December 3-4 2022 – Audible Audiobook
October 18-19, 2023 – Audible Audiobook
April 19, 2020
Elizabeth Hunter, publishes with Recurve Press now part of Bookdepository.com (an Amazon Company). She is a highly rated modern author, publishing in all formats. I was originally drawn to Hunter's Elemental series. I found her world building interesting. She combines mystery with vampire romance and international intrigue.
Hunter listened to her readers. Secondary characters in the elemental series proved to be so popular, that fans demanded more stories. Thus the Elemental Legacy series was born. Shadows and Gold is a prequel novella to this series. Our main characters are Ben Vecchio, now grown to his early 20's and Tenzin (my favorite vampire). Ben and Tenzin are on a path to create a partnership. Ben has found his career choice. Unlike his uncle who deals with rare books, he will retrieve fine art. But first he needs to get his University degree.
Fluent in most languages, Ben is struggling with Mandarin. Tenzin also has a problem. She remembers a long forgotten cache of treasure located in the Xinjiang Province of China. Two hundred years ago doesn't seem like a long time for Tenzin. But now modernization has come to Kashgar. Her treasures might be stolen form her. She convinces Ben to 'practice his Mandarin' by traveling to Kashgar. She also contacts a former lover, Cheng to help her with the treasure.
Ben's Mandarin immersion turns into an extensive road trip from Kashgar to Shanghai. A journey of 3,225 miles, across the northern reaches of China and then south to Shanghai. Along the way, Ben must deal with surprising emotions of jealousy as Tenzin discusses her vampire pirate lover.
Will human emotions get in the way?
One of Hunter's great strengths is her description of the settings. She has researched in area thoroughly, often visiting in person. A reader feels as if they are walking the streets and eating the food along with the characters. It is almost like a Youtube experience. I look forward to reading the Elemental Legacy series.
Hunter listened to her readers. Secondary characters in the elemental series proved to be so popular, that fans demanded more stories. Thus the Elemental Legacy series was born. Shadows and Gold is a prequel novella to this series. Our main characters are Ben Vecchio, now grown to his early 20's and Tenzin (my favorite vampire). Ben and Tenzin are on a path to create a partnership. Ben has found his career choice. Unlike his uncle who deals with rare books, he will retrieve fine art. But first he needs to get his University degree.
Fluent in most languages, Ben is struggling with Mandarin. Tenzin also has a problem. She remembers a long forgotten cache of treasure located in the Xinjiang Province of China. Two hundred years ago doesn't seem like a long time for Tenzin. But now modernization has come to Kashgar. Her treasures might be stolen form her. She convinces Ben to 'practice his Mandarin' by traveling to Kashgar. She also contacts a former lover, Cheng to help her with the treasure.
Ben's Mandarin immersion turns into an extensive road trip from Kashgar to Shanghai. A journey of 3,225 miles, across the northern reaches of China and then south to Shanghai. Along the way, Ben must deal with surprising emotions of jealousy as Tenzin discusses her vampire pirate lover.
Will human emotions get in the way?
One of Hunter's great strengths is her description of the settings. She has researched in area thoroughly, often visiting in person. A reader feels as if they are walking the streets and eating the food along with the characters. It is almost like a Youtube experience. I look forward to reading the Elemental Legacy series.
June 25, 2024
SHADOWS AND GOLD
Failing grades. Misleading wind vampires. And a fortune in forgotten gold.
Traveling to the most remote region of China certainly wasn’t what Ben Vecchio had in mind for his summer vacation, but when Tenzin suggested a quick trip, he could hardly turn down a chance to keep her out of trouble and practice the Mandarin he still struggled with in class.
Of course, Tenzin might not have been clear about everything travel entailed.
Driving a truck full of rotting vegetables and twenty million in gold from Kashgar to Shanghai was only the start. If Ben can keep the treasure away from grasping immortals, the reward will be more than worth the effort. But when has travel with a five-thousand-year-old wind vampire ever been simple?
“What’s on the agenda for tonight?”
“I thought we’d go into Shanghai. Eat some fish. See the lights.”
“Okay.”
“Then maybe lure a traitor into the open before he steals my gold.”
Ben paused, thought, then gave her a nod. “Sure, sounds like fun.”
At least he was practicing his Chinese.
Right?
Heather's Notes
This story was not bad, but I did not like it as much as I thought I would. I did not like the scene with Cheng and Tenzin (in the boat) at all. I don't know if her and Ben end up together (although ...probably) but her with him just felt wrong. I also didn't care for the manipulations she did. They need to be partners and right now they are not. Still it is just a novella prior to the actual series so maybe she is setting things up.
Failing grades. Misleading wind vampires. And a fortune in forgotten gold.
Traveling to the most remote region of China certainly wasn’t what Ben Vecchio had in mind for his summer vacation, but when Tenzin suggested a quick trip, he could hardly turn down a chance to keep her out of trouble and practice the Mandarin he still struggled with in class.
Of course, Tenzin might not have been clear about everything travel entailed.
Driving a truck full of rotting vegetables and twenty million in gold from Kashgar to Shanghai was only the start. If Ben can keep the treasure away from grasping immortals, the reward will be more than worth the effort. But when has travel with a five-thousand-year-old wind vampire ever been simple?
“What’s on the agenda for tonight?”
“I thought we’d go into Shanghai. Eat some fish. See the lights.”
“Okay.”
“Then maybe lure a traitor into the open before he steals my gold.”
Ben paused, thought, then gave her a nod. “Sure, sounds like fun.”
At least he was practicing his Chinese.
Right?
Heather's Notes
This story was not bad, but I did not like it as much as I thought I would. I did not like the scene with Cheng and Tenzin (in the boat) at all. I don't know if her and Ben end up together (although ...probably) but her with him just felt wrong. I also didn't care for the manipulations she did. They need to be partners and right now they are not. Still it is just a novella prior to the actual series so maybe she is setting things up.
January 6, 2019
Ben Vecchio is getting older--now a college student, but more mature than most, he's also good friends with Tenzin, the 5,000-year-old vampire. It would seem that Tenzin hasn't learned much about interpersonal relationships in all that time, though. Or she's just not interested in maturing to human standards. Or maybe she's so wise that everything she does brings a lesson to her companions? I'd like to think the latter, but I believe that she really is quite self-centered. Perhaps Ben can teach her a thing or two--eventually. I enjoy their banter and the fact that Ben doesn't feel threatened by her or cut her any slack. Their male-female dynamic is a refreshing change from all the alpha-male, icy heart melting by the "right" young female to come along. In this case, Tenzin is the alpha that the young Ben might be able to crack.
February 24, 2025
Bridging the gap between Benjamin Vecchio, the human child adopted by fire vampire Giovanni Vecchio, in his formative teens and the college years... preparing the way to his early partnering with Tenzin. Novella 1 in the pre-Legacy series.
An enjoyable read-listen, can be finished easily in a day. My first time through, with the audio book. Intrigue in China, pursuing the reclamation of treasure that Tenzin had long hidden but with looming threat to be potentially exposed with demolition & reconstruction being attempted at it's location. Politics in the vampire world. Multiple agendas being worked. Interesting twists and resolutions. More world expansion.
An enjoyable read-listen, can be finished easily in a day. My first time through, with the audio book. Intrigue in China, pursuing the reclamation of treasure that Tenzin had long hidden but with looming threat to be potentially exposed with demolition & reconstruction being attempted at it's location. Politics in the vampire world. Multiple agendas being worked. Interesting twists and resolutions. More world expansion.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews