Fangs, Frost, and Folios

Elemental Mysteries #5

by Elizabeth Hunter

An all-new holiday mystery for your favorite book-hunting vampires!

Giovanni and Beatrice left vampire conspiracies and supernatural adventures for a peaceful family life. But peace only lasts so long for a vampire assassin and an undying scribe.

The death of an old friend leaves Giovanni with a rare opportunity. He knows that Lady Penelope's library hides more than one rare book, but can he break into her family's ancestral home without raising alarms? Giovanni and Beatrice are looking for literary treasure. Other immortals might be searching for a different and more dangerous haul.

Back in Los Angeles, Ben and Tenzin were put in charge of protecting the family. But can two powerful vampires survive the mercurial mood swings of a preteen girl? Ben and Tenzin could be facing the end… of their sanity.

Fangs, Frost, and Folios is a holiday novella and a brand new adventure for Giovanni and Beatrice, the heroes of the Elemental Mysteries series by eleven-time USA Today bestselling author Elizabeth Hunter.

Genres: Vampires, Fantasy, Romance, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Christmas

155 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 5, 2023

About the author

ELIZABETH 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.

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fangs, Frost, and Folios by Elizabeth Hunter
Elemental Mysteries series #5. Paranormal vampire holiday mystery novella. Can be read as a stand-alone but better if familiar with the series to appreciate all the characters.
Giovanni and Beatrice need a little excitement in their lives and take the opportunity to search an old friend’s library for a rare book. The library is massive and since it’s never been catalogued, they accept the help of Rene, with reservations. He may be looking for a journal, but he may be lying, and stirring up some trouble.
Meanwhile, back in their home, Ben and Tenzin have agreed to stay with pre-teen Sadia who is moody and a bit of a pill. Tenzin has it covered when she discovers the reason behind Sadie’s mood swings and the party planning begins.

Entertaining story with old familiars and new adventures. It’s easily followed if new to the series although there are quite a few primary characters to follow. I enjoyed a few laugh out loud moments as well a one or two heartwarming moments.
A fantastic and joyful holiday mystery novella.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

All of my favourite people in one book.

Christmas is coming for Gio, Beatrice, Sadia, Ben & Tenzin.

Gio has had enough of building minature ships, semi retirement doesn't suit him all that well.

Beatrice has a teenager whose whole life is falling apart cause teenagers!! We were of course perfect teenagers.

Ben & Tiny are in LA to babysit Sadia.

Plucky Penny has a secret that deserves to be discovered.

Gio & B head to England to find an elusive manuscript from one of the most famous writers out there it doesn't matter if it is good or not. It is the hunt that counts. We encounter old friends René and Terry Ramsey (east London bruiser) an exciting story, action with intrigue.

There are fertility rituals, a cow and a very small tattoo. Let's not forget the awesomeness of specific stabbing which is deserved. Just saying!

The problem with novellas is that they are always so and too short where I shall always want more especially when these characters are like family.

I would have liked to have given it the full 5 stars but for me for interaction between Gio and B wasn't enough. I also wanted more stabbing. Lol.

Last words: Keep them coming!

ARC received in exchange for an honest review.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

B and Gio, at long last, return! I loved this holiday novella. On the one hand, we have our favorite original badass librarian duo, off to the picturesque English winter countryside to hunt down a long lost manuscript, hidden by the eccentrically marvelous Lady Penny. But of course, the manuscript might not exist at all…and they aren’t the only ones skulking through the library stacks. Things might get stabby, but honestly, what would a classic Elemental Mystery be without a little bloodshed amongst the rare books?

Meanwhile, Ben and Tenzin are back in LA, keeping an eye on the very twelve-year-old Sadia, who is in peak angsty tween form. To the say the Benzin chapters are hilarious is an enormous understatement; nobody approaches the concept of puberty and hormone swings quite like Tenzin and her 5,000 year old concept of important adolescent milestones.

It’s a quick, fun adventure on all counts, and I loved some of the unexpected character cameos. Definitely recommend this both for longtime Elemental universe fans and new readers!

[Shelly K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gio and B are back!

Gio and B are off to find a missing play in the library of an old friend. When they arrive and find René there, they know something isn't right.

Sadia is at home with Dema, Caspar, and Isadora. Ben and Tenzin fly over to hang out too. Sadia is no longer the adorable kid she was. She's 12 and full of attitude. Tenzin gets a whiff of what the problem is.

This is a great story about accepting the changes life throws at us. Do we hide from them or celebrate them? Reading this was like hanging out with old friends. Ms. Hunter has developed her characters so well that her readers (this one anyway) feel like we know them.

I got this book early so I could leave an honest review. I did. I also bought a copy because everyone deserves to make a living.

[~Shawna the crazy coffee reader~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The elemental world of Beatrice and Giovanni is a delight to return to.

🧛 PNR vampire story
🌶️ one short but complete spicy scene
💥 mention of past war
🥷 some violence
🎄 holiday cozy vibes

B and Gio are longing for a mystery, and a short reprieve from their moody preteen haha. Living the family life is great but there is nothing better than an unexpected adventure to truly make you appreciate it. So off they go to discover lost works that haven’t seen the light of day in…. Who knows how long! Along the way they run into past characters with unknown motives that might need to be dealt with. B is ever ready, she is a librarian but she is also a fighter.

Ben and Tenzin are here too! Though they don’t go with Gio and B, they spend some quality time with Sadia. It can be hard for a big brother to accept that his little sister is growing up. Unfortunately, he has no choice when it is staring him in the face with attitude, huffs, and more emotions than he expected. Tenzin is as slyly perceptive as usual. Her way of making everything better might be unconventional but, it just might work.

Ok enough of the intrigue! This was a wonderful novella to bring us back to B, Gio, Ben, and Tenzin. I always love reading from their perspectives and I’m sad when I devour them so quickly. No matter the emotion the characters are experiencing, I experience them too. Typically Tenzin’s emotions so I’m not sure what that says about me 😂. This is a cozy, light, but great read perfect for the holidays. Time to ignore my large TBR pile and complete another reread of the entire series again!

[Angela Hillier · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a holiday novella drops onto your kindle early you must stop everything immediately and read.
This is an amazing look at family, friends and those who we think are enemies.
I was so happy to be reading Gio and B again oh how I’ve missed them.
There’s a mystery of course because that’s what they do.
Also we get some Ben and Tenzin. I absolutely love Tenzin but ,Tenzin in this was brilliant. Her insight into Sadia was well thought out.
I will definitely be going in for a second read. Festive without being too Christmassy.
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awwwww I loved this!!
I seriously had a huge silly grin on my face the whole time. And happy tears! Sadia is growning up.

This book really was great and it was awesome catching up with everyone.
Tenzin being Tenzin, I just love her so much! Chloe is right, these guys are sensitive, aren't they? 🐟🍄
So many great scenes in this one and all of them are my favorite!

I really hope we get some more B and Gio!
It was super fun to adventure with them again!

[This Literary Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not even sure how to put into worlds how much I enjoyed this book! Gio & B as always are life goals for me, getting to see them in action again was a treat! Once again Hunter’s ability to fit so much story into one book is unparalleled. There are 2 storylines in this book, the first follows Gio & B on their missing manuscript adventure. This storyline is full surprises, some had me absolutely shocked and had me immediately text chatting with a bookish bestie, who’d already finished, about how insane it was! You know those moments in a book that just surprise you and then it’s like your brain does some sort of matrix move where it takes a step back and finally sees all of the threads come together of a story you didn’t even realize had been brewing in the background of a series? Just brilliant. Again, she’s THAT good.

And the second story involves Ben, Tenzin, and Sadia. I don’t need to say more, but I’m gonna. This story had me in absolutely stitches. As a mother of a 12 year old daughter I felt this one DEEP into my momma soul. But as a woman, there will absolutely be a connection for you in this story. Not only did it have all of the Ben and Tenzin magic, but we get to see a bit more Sadia in this novella. She is becoming as intriguing as Tenzin to me. They have such a shared spirit and I love the connection they have with one another. There is cringe. So. Much. Cringe. It’s Tenzin after all! But also, Tenzin finally has her moment where she is, IMO, 100% in the right. Her logic may seem out of left field, skewed per usual, but I think that my original reaction came from how we are raised in our current society in regards to women’s bodies. When Tenzin’s plans came to fruition (once everyone realized she was right and gave in lol) it was absolutely beautiful. My heart was a little sad that I hadn’t read this before, maybe 2 years ago when I would have been able to change the mindset in my own home for milestones for my daughter. How I could have framed things in a much more beautiful and empowered manner. But I will take this special story about celebrating the magic and power of our bodies as I forge forward with motherhood. I’ve already chatted with my daughter about what happened in this book. She loves hearing about Ben and Tenzin’s shenanigans, and because the idea didn’t come from me *cue the tweenager eyeroll* she thought is was “so cool”.

How on earth she packs heart pumping action, heartfelt moments, surprise, romance, mystery, secondhand embarrassment, and potential animal sacrifice (don’t worry, Ben will save us all from the most insane of Tenzin’s ideas!) into one novella is truly magic. Can’t wait for you to read this gem!

[AJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars

A novella set in the Elemental Mysteries world, this book takes us back to Giovanni and Beatrice, and I loved being back with these two! The original couple from the series, they hold a special place in my heart, and I loved seeing them still happy and very much in love as they come out of semi-retirement to search the private library of an old friend for a secret, near-priceless manuscript. But they aren’t the only ones searching for treasure.

Meanwhile, Ben and Tenzin have stepped in to look after Sadia, Gio and Beatrice’s hormonal 12 year old daughter, and there are some fun developments there. Tenzin, her ancientness, and her complete lack of filter will never not be entertaining, and this was a fun little side story.

There are tie ins to some of the series spin-offs, most of which I’ve read, some I haven’t, but it’s nothing too complicated, and you could read this one on its own – though it really is one for the fans.

There is some mystery and a little bit of excitement, and it’s all resolved well, wrapping up for a quick and satisfying ending.

3 stars.

An Advanced Review Copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Isa (bookishbellisaa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC received in exchange for an honest review

First I want to say that I haven’t read any of the other books in the series or by this author! I will say having the knowledge of the other books probably would have enriched my reading experience, however I enjoyed this novella so much I would love to read the series now!!

We have a badass librarian vampire duo in search of a manuscript by one of the most famous writers ever, that may or may not exist. They realize they aren’t the only ones searching through library stacks and things get a bit stabby..

While back home their very angsty twelve year old daughter is being watched over by Ben and Tenzin. Where there is a fertility ritual, a cow, and a maybe small tattoo? The chapters with there daughter are hilarious!!

This book was so much fun!!! I LOVE books about other books and librarians?! It kind of reminded me of ‘national treasure’ the movie which is an absolute favorite of mine!

[Angela Celeste · Rating 5 out of 5]

A holiday novella with a vampire twist. I enjoyed getting a peek into the lives of Giovanni, Beatrice and their family. Almost making them seem “normal” for centuries old vampires.

Taking a holiday job to seek out a historical piece that may or may not exist, while dealing the preteen angst of their human adoptive daughter sounds like a day in the life. But who doesn’t love a journey to a private library filled with all kinds of wonderful books!!

It was cute, a little romantic with a hint of violence. A suitable read for most audiences!

[Lora Guest · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! This was my first in the series, and while I think I’d have loved it more with more background. I still enjoyed the story and will be going back to start the series.

[Dee Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good!! I did not realize how much I had missed Giovanni and Beatrice! They are my absolute favorites, and it was so wonderful to get to visit them again. The story was so cool. It was almost like two stories in one. We had Gio and B in one and then Ben and Tenzin in the other!!! Too cool!! And then there was Sadia!! It was amazing to get to learn more about her.. she’s growing up!
The story was excellently, written and completely captivated me I didn’t want to leave this world. In fact, I read the book twice before leaving this review. I absolutely loved it.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book mystery!

Loved catching up with Gio and Beatrice and their large extended family.

With their 12 year old daughter, Sadia, being an impossible teenager, Gio and B travel to London after a dear friend dies to search her big library. But things don't go as planned for them.

Meanwhile, Ben is seeing a side of his little sister he's never met before. When Tenzin realizes the problem and comes up with a solution, Sadia returns to the happy and loving kid she once was.

Loved!

[Kam · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I made a mistake. I signed up for this ARC without realizing it was the 5th or 6th book (novella) in the series until about a third of the way into it.

HOWEVER, that did not deter me from finishing. So take this review with a grain of salt 😅.

I actually really enjoyed this novella! Beatrice and Giovanni give me eccentric aunt and uncle vibes, and I want nothing to do but to hang out with them and hear all their stories. I know they’re Mates but they don’t give off typical mate vibes. They’re fun and silly and snarky but with lots of love for each other.

Now, Ben and Tenzin?? I’m obsessed with them. Every scene that involved them had me in stitches. I will be checking out the rest of this series just for them alone. Reading about Tenzin trying to help a very 12 year old Sadia navigate girlhood and Ben’s brain trying not to explode from it is amazing and absolutely hilarious.

If you’ve read this series you should absolutely read this Novella. If you haven’t read this series you need to and then absolutely read this novella.

[Anna (Bobs Her Hair) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gio sets aside his model building kits to join Beatrice in finding literary treasure. Meanwhile, Ben and Tenzin hilariously babysit a moody tween. "Fangs, Frost, and Folios" was a fun read. Elizabeth Hunters said she might write more mysteries for Gio & Bea. I hope so!

[Debrac2014 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good mystery about a lost Shakespearian play! Good to see old friends!

[Marisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

★★★★☆

[Maegs InWonderland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jumping into Gio & B’s life again after so long was as familiar as visiting friends who’ve moved away - there’s this incredible sense that no matter how much time has passed, you’re still just as invested in hearing about their life. But as we’ve come to expect with the appearance of Tenzin in any story, the only things you should really expect is the unexpected! There were essentially two parallel stories which diverge and then come back together in this book and I, for one, was fully invested in both. Gio and B run into some characters we haven’t seen for awhile and we’re reminded that our peaceful couple are still both absolute badasses both together and apart. Meanwhile, Tenzin (and a confused-yet-resigned Ben) take on a new developments with an ancient approach. Watching B’s growth as a mother is awesome to watch but it was Sadia’s growth that makes me increasingly hopeful that we’ll get to see her transformative adult years much in the same way we got to watch Ben grow up. Getting these little peeks at her personality and where her life is headed is so exciting! I got a copy of this book to review ahead of its release and I’m so excited for everyone to be able read it. It was a perfect little stepping stone to what I hope might be more adventures for these characters!

[Sharey]

"Fangs, Frost and Folios" by Elizabeth Hunter is a delightful novella that follows the escapades of Giovanni and Beatrice, a vampire assassin and an undying scribe, seeking a bit of mystery in their peaceful family life. The death of an old friend presents Giovanni with an opportunity to explore Lady Penelope's library, known to hide rare books. However, their quest for literary treasure might intertwine with the dangerous pursuits of other immortals.

Hunter masterfully weaves together humor, romance, and a hint of violence in this novella. Even as a newcomer to the series, I found the story thoroughly enjoyable. The characters, especially the moody preteen Sadia, add a layer of complexity and humor to the narrative. The dynamics between Ben, Tenzin, and Sadia bring a fresh perspective, offering moments of warmth and familial bonds amid the supernatural challenges.

The novella's strength lies in its ability to be both light-hearted and engaging. The plot moves swiftly, and the narrative is well-crafted. While prior knowledge of the series might enhance the reading experience, "Fangs, Frost and Folios" stands on its own as a charming and delightful story. Elizabeth Hunter's storytelling captivates, making this novella a recommended read for fans of paranormal romance with a touch of mystery and humor.

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Fangs, Frost and Folios is a holiday novella set in the world of the Elemental Mysteries. Readers familiar with the series will be happy to know that this fun holiday read heralds the return of Beatrice (water vampire) and Giovanni (fire vampire).

I am not familiar with the couple featured in this story. However, Fangs, Frost and Folios gave me a peek into the lives of these two elemental vampires. A peek which left me desiring to pick up the previous books from this series. Despite not reading the previous books, I had no trouble following the story.

Giovanni is restless, and to combat his restlessness, he spends his time building miniature ships. However, it doesn't help much. So when the opportunity to search for a lost and possibly priceless manuscript presented itself, he couldn't resist the lure. On arrival to their destination, Beatrice and Giovanni learn they were not the only ones searching the library. This aspect of the story came with deceit, betrayal, mystery, intrigue and suspense.

Fangs, Frost and Folios featured a secondary storyline which focused on the couple's adopted daughter, Sadia, and the changes she faces as a preteen. Although this facet of the story had no intrigue, it came with some interesting and humorous developments. It also introduced me to Ben and Tenzin, whose story I am also interested in reading. I am intrigued by Tenzin's character and would love to learn more about her.

I had a great time with this novella. The story was fun and captivating and left me craving more of this world. A delightful read from start to finish. Fans of the series will want to dive back into the world of Geovanni and Beatrice.This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars 🌟

[Joyffree]

Fangs, Frost, and Folios was a fast-paced, action-packed novella-length adventure with plenty of twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat from the first page to the last.
Full of suspense, intrigue, and humor.

Giovanni and Beatrice are searching for a priceless manuscript
Easy Peasy for these two.
So we would believe
However, as their search progresses they find themselves entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a powerful adversary
While on the home front, Ben and Ten are babysitting their daughter Sadia who is just hitting that hormonal teenage stage
This just added a bit of laughter to our storyline

This was the perfect fireside read

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this series and truly hope to see more of Gio and Bea in the future. They captivate me from the beginning, every time. It's a joy to follow them and all the familiar characters we've grown to love, along with new ones introduced with each book. The collection includes six short stories, with the first three offering a brief glimpse into Tenzin and Ben's holiday celebrations.

Holidays can indeed be monstrous.

Giovanni and Beatrice have traded vampire intrigues and supernatural escapades for a tranquil family existence. Yet, tranquility is fleeting for a vampire assassin and an eternal scribe.

The demise of an old comrade presents Giovanni with an uncommon chance. He's aware that Lady Penelope's library conceals numerous rare tomes, but can he infiltrate her ancestral abode undetected? While Giovanni and Beatrice quest for literary riches, other hidden immortals may seek treasures far more perilous. This was Gio and Bea at their best and doing what has kept them so engaged.

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Ben and Tenzin are tasked with family protection. But are two formidable vampires equipped to handle the volatile temperament of a young girl? For Ben and Tenzin, it could spell the end of their patience. Tenzin bonds with Sadia as she remembers more about her past and she helps the girl face a right of passage.

Fangs, Frost, and Folios is a festive novella offering a fresh escapade for Giovanni and Beatrice, the beloved protagonists of the Elemental Mysteries series. The narrator excels, vividly animating the characters and enriching the listening experience.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it !

Absolutely loved this novella. Honestly, one of her best novellas. Really thought the story of Giovanni and Beatrice was complete, except for a few stories in novellas. However, with this story it's like a whole new group of stories need to be told. Gio and B and their life has changed and they've grown into something new. Plus there daughter and even Rene DuPont are growing into something new. So, Please, Elizabeth Hunter bring us more. I reread and re-listen to all the books in all the various Elemental series quite often since it's like visiting friends. Ben and Tenzen have been my favorites for a long time but I have to admit with this story I'm hooked on the newer evolution that Gio and B have grown into. Also, it's time for Rene DuPont to grow up, that would take a whole book. Plus Tywyll needs his story told and maybe even find his mate. Don't forget Oleg and Tatyana. Let's not forget Kato, Ziri, Saba could use finding there better halfs. And of course the spoiled rich playboy Arosh needs to grow up. I could keep going because this story brought back a whole bunch of characters I've often wondered about and now I can't help but feel this series is still unfinished.
Get this book because you Won't be disappointed and it will set your imagination lose again.

[Erin Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn't love a good search for long-lost manuscripts around the holidays?

I am so happy that Gio and B have a new story out because they are the characters that made me fall in love with Elizabeth Hunter's writing. Finding literary treasure is their forte, and the premise of finding one from one of the best known writers in history makes for a fantastically humorous and catchy plot point. The appearance of a sketchier vampire is an interesting twist which leads to a character I'd forgotten about, but I was so impressed at how seamlessly their part in the story worked and made sense to the overall Elemental series.

And can we talk about Ben and Tenzin having to step into a parental role with Sadia while Gio and B were galavanting around England? Hats off to Elizabeth Hunter for perfectly capturing what it's like to have a 12 year old girl under your roof. It's not for the faint of heart. The side story with these 3 is beautifully done and epitomizes both how difficult preteens are and how fantastic Ben and Tenzin are as a dynamic duo.

It was a quick read but satisfied the itch to dive back into the Elemental World. It was an enjoyable read and makes me want to start over again with A Hidden Fire to relive the series.

[Emilye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just A Little Trip…

ElementalMysteries13

Yummy!

It is delightful to read Giovanni and Beatrice as the central characters again. Their lives have changed so much, and all the humans in it make it so much richer. Keeping humans safe is a full-time job, though.

When an opportunity to search for a lost(?) manuscript by a well-known playwright comes up, Gio and B hope it won’t bleed into Christmas celebrations. They have people they trust at home…but just in case… Benzin make their own, unique appearance!

Sadia is shaping up nicely, despite the fact that she is a little snot for quite a while. But, being understood goes a long way - even in the midst of teenage angst.

So, there are lots of stories to tell (don’t worry - we know all of them) to catch everyone up on events missed, but that is just perfect for the holidays!

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This novella was a bit of a disappointment. I think I really prefer Hunter’s full length novels where she has time to world build and really bring me into the story.

I would have given it 4 stars for the Gio and Beatrice hunting for the lost Shakespeare play but the part of the story that focused on what was going on at home with their 12 yo daughter and Ben and Tenzin just lost me. Just a weird holiday topic.

Also, not enough Christmas in this to really call it a holiday novella. Could have been any time of year.

3 stars

[Shelby Alease Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

This can be read as a standalone,but you get more out of it if you read them in order. This book is full of paranormal happenings, vampires,old libraries, rare books,and mystery in this fun holiday novella. I really enjoyed this fun quick read. Definitely put me in the holiday spirit, and I will be picking up more by this author.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always love being back in this world! You get so many characters you love, Bea, Gio, Ben, Tenzin and more!

I loved this novella with a new small adventure for Beatrice and Giovanni. It was fun and heartwarming, with some excitement!

Definitely a wonderful edition to the series!