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Elemental Mysteries #2
This Same Earth
Beatrice De Novo thought she had left the supernatural world behind…for the most part. But when the past becomes the present, will she leave her quiet life in Los Angeles to follow a mystery she thought had abandoned her? Where has Giovanni Vecchio been, and why has he returned? Giovanni has his own questions, and he’s looking to her for answers.
The sequel to A Hidden Fire will reunite Beatrice and Giovanni to continue their search through the past while both wrestle with the future. When the world as you knew it has changed forever, is there any way you can turn back?
This Same Earth is the second book in the Elemental Mysteries series. It is a paranormal romance/mystery for adult readers.
The sequel to A Hidden Fire will reunite Beatrice and Giovanni to continue their search through the past while both wrestle with the future. When the world as you knew it has changed forever, is there any way you can turn back?
This Same Earth is the second book in the Elemental Mysteries series. It is a paranormal romance/mystery for adult readers.
ebook
First published December 2, 2011
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About the author
Elizabeth Hunter
83 books6,297 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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December 16, 2014
Meh.
Right away, I felt Giovanni had become a different, less likable character. He basically abandons Beatrice for 5 years because *he* has deemed that an appropriate amount of time for her to get some life experience and grow up so that she'll really be ready to be with him. Why didn't he wait 10-15 years, why just 5? Probably he doesn't want to wait too long or else she wouldn't be in her scrumptious twenties anymore when she turns immortal! And five years doesn't leave her a huge window of time in which she could get married and have children. So I don't buy that this was a selfless thing he did for her. It struck me as being entirely selfish and manipulative, and when he marches back into her life his entitled claim on her was yuck. This conflict creates the romantic suspense for the rest of the book while we wait for Beatrice to decide she forgives him, and I didn't care for it.
No one enjoys a good romance more than me, but the schmoopy love scenes in this book were over the top. When she cries, he scoops her up in his arms and rocks her like baby. He's constantly consoling her like she's a child. The declarations of love were melodramatic to my tastes.
I already thought the author was going out of her way to avoid sexy times in the first book, so I suppose I shouldn't have been surprised to find this book would be the same. How any woman could resist having sex for so long with a dude she's co-sleeping with, making out with, and coming whenever he bites her neck is the real mystery of this book! That Beatrice has loins of steel! When sexy times finally happen (towards the bitter end), it's all fade to black business and very brief. WTF! I expect this sort of thing in a YA book, but in adult fiction, it annoys me. I guess if you prefer "clean" romances, you'd like this. However, skanks like me doth protest.
Everyone is just so *dazzled* by Beatrice. She is practically perfect in every way. Over and over again we're told how amazing, how intelligent, how interesting she is. The key word there being *told*, not shown.
The plot was just okay for me. I feel like it's a little vague what exactly was going on, and the details always seemed to be hurriedly thrown in after all the lovey-dovey stuff. I honestly think this book would've been better if there was more focus on the mystery aspect and the romance was more subtle.
And lastly: the new character, Ben, seemed rather pointless and the scenes involving him bored me. I skimmed over any scene with Ben. I felt the author trying to force this heart warming family dynamic with him and I just wasn't feeling it.
It honestly got a bit Twilight-ish with the prudish, soapy romance and forced "aren't we all a big happy family."
Overall: Too much fluff, not enough grit.
Right away, I felt Giovanni had become a different, less likable character. He basically abandons Beatrice for 5 years because *he* has deemed that an appropriate amount of time for her to get some life experience and grow up so that she'll really be ready to be with him. Why didn't he wait 10-15 years, why just 5? Probably he doesn't want to wait too long or else she wouldn't be in her scrumptious twenties anymore when she turns immortal! And five years doesn't leave her a huge window of time in which she could get married and have children. So I don't buy that this was a selfless thing he did for her. It struck me as being entirely selfish and manipulative, and when he marches back into her life his entitled claim on her was yuck. This conflict creates the romantic suspense for the rest of the book while we wait for Beatrice to decide she forgives him, and I didn't care for it.
No one enjoys a good romance more than me, but the schmoopy love scenes in this book were over the top. When she cries, he scoops her up in his arms and rocks her like baby. He's constantly consoling her like she's a child. The declarations of love were melodramatic to my tastes.
I already thought the author was going out of her way to avoid sexy times in the first book, so I suppose I shouldn't have been surprised to find this book would be the same. How any woman could resist having sex for so long with a dude she's co-sleeping with, making out with, and coming whenever he bites her neck is the real mystery of this book! That Beatrice has loins of steel! When sexy times finally happen (towards the bitter end), it's all fade to black business and very brief. WTF! I expect this sort of thing in a YA book, but in adult fiction, it annoys me. I guess if you prefer "clean" romances, you'd like this. However, skanks like me doth protest.
Everyone is just so *dazzled* by Beatrice. She is practically perfect in every way. Over and over again we're told how amazing, how intelligent, how interesting she is. The key word there being *told*, not shown.
The plot was just okay for me. I feel like it's a little vague what exactly was going on, and the details always seemed to be hurriedly thrown in after all the lovey-dovey stuff. I honestly think this book would've been better if there was more focus on the mystery aspect and the romance was more subtle.
And lastly: the new character, Ben, seemed rather pointless and the scenes involving him bored me. I skimmed over any scene with Ben. I felt the author trying to force this heart warming family dynamic with him and I just wasn't feeling it.
It honestly got a bit Twilight-ish with the prudish, soapy romance and forced "aren't we all a big happy family."
Overall: Too much fluff, not enough grit.
January 3, 2023
This is another one that I didn't review at the time of publication because authors weren't supposed to be on Goodreads.
So, anyway. THIS SAME EARTH! Sophomore book. Holy cow, I was nervous. People were actually waiting to read a book that I wrote. THE PRESSURE! GAH!
There are parts I love. Parts I hate. There's groveling (or Giovanni's version of it, which basically amounts to a stoic and reserved apology) and my first (but not last) literary homage to Jason Momoa.
*whispers* I'm sorry, Mano...
Anyway, this is the second Gio and Beatrice book. Everyone except Tenzin is back and this is the book that really started to expand the world. A Hidden Fire focused on Beatrice's entry into the Elemental world, but this book lets her dive right in. She has to make some pretty serious decisions, which means Giovanni needs to be...
Persuasive.
Please note: I love writing Giovanni being persuasive. Persuasive Giovanni may be my favorite Giovanni. Hmmm.
So, if you haven't read This Same Earth yet, then I suggest you do. See if Giovanni can persuade you.
September 16, 2017
First read 16th July 2013. First read rating was ★★★★.
Re-read 20th May 2015. My opinion has changed ★★★★★.
3rd re-read 16th September 2017. Opinion stays the same ★★★★★.
Time flies when you are reading a good book. 5 “Vampires and villains, danger and mystery…that is your real world” Stars.
The saga of Gio and Beatrce continues. For five years Gio has been leaving Beatrice a plane ticket to Chile. Beatrice is trying to come to terms that what they had is over and forget the paranormal world she fell into for a short time.
We’ve moved to LA and its six years later.
Beatrice has a life, a job and a boyfriend Mano who adores her. She is finally and completely moving on with her life. Putting the thoughts of Gio and her father out of her mind and “trying” to lead a normal life.
Until the devil himself walks back into her life. Gio has his work cut out for him.
She was absolutely stunning. And really, really pissed off.
Gio has made sure that Beatrice works with him at the Huntington where she works. B is not impressed as she knows that he did his magic mind voodoo. Beatrice doesn’t understand why he is back and what he wants that trust was broken.
I’m back Beatrice. I’m back for you, I’m not going anywhere, so run home for now but know I’ll see you again tomorrow. And I’m not leaving you again.”
Over the past 5 years Gio has been travelling around the world refreshing his existing contacts as well as establishing more in helping against his “son” Lorenzo. While in New York he picked up a fake nephew, Ben and both lives have changed. Ben befriends B quicker but then again Ben is twelve and didn’t screw up although he thought it was for the best.
We see Carwyn again and he asks if Gio should just give up and let her be.
”He can’t love her like I do, Carwyn. He can’t. Because I promise you, he doesn’t know her like I do.”
Beatrice slowly starts to let Gio back into her life. Although Beatrice is with Mano (there are no sex scenes or cheating well maybe a kiss) in the end after Mano’s life was endangered and he realizes that Beatrice will never feel the same way about him that he does about her. They part and go their separate ways. But even then the trust that was broken between them must be regained.
Vampire politics is like swimming with sharks. Beatrice is related to the water vampire clan of Los Angles. Don Ernesto Alvarez who is very keen on siring his great-great-great, well you get the idea. Lorenzo is up to some seriously bad things again but it goes deeper than they thought.
There is so much going on here but not in a bad way. It leads to the overall plot of the book that will spread over book 3 and 4. We meet new characters, Deirdre, Terry, Gemma and Murphy who all get books. In the end Beatrice and Gio work their differences out and they bump uglies. They figure the labyrinth out and not the breadcrumbs.
Next stop Beijing, Mount Penglai to the eight immortals.
Ms. Hunter's storytelling and weaving is once again flawless. A series I can re-read as much as I want to and I won't get bored of it. A must read IMO.
Re-read 20th May 2015. My opinion has changed ★★★★★.
3rd re-read 16th September 2017. Opinion stays the same ★★★★★.
Time flies when you are reading a good book. 5 “Vampires and villains, danger and mystery…that is your real world” Stars.
The saga of Gio and Beatrce continues. For five years Gio has been leaving Beatrice a plane ticket to Chile. Beatrice is trying to come to terms that what they had is over and forget the paranormal world she fell into for a short time.
We’ve moved to LA and its six years later.
Beatrice has a life, a job and a boyfriend Mano who adores her. She is finally and completely moving on with her life. Putting the thoughts of Gio and her father out of her mind and “trying” to lead a normal life.
Until the devil himself walks back into her life. Gio has his work cut out for him.
She was absolutely stunning. And really, really pissed off.
Gio has made sure that Beatrice works with him at the Huntington where she works. B is not impressed as she knows that he did his magic mind voodoo. Beatrice doesn’t understand why he is back and what he wants that trust was broken.
I’m back Beatrice. I’m back for you, I’m not going anywhere, so run home for now but know I’ll see you again tomorrow. And I’m not leaving you again.”
Over the past 5 years Gio has been travelling around the world refreshing his existing contacts as well as establishing more in helping against his “son” Lorenzo. While in New York he picked up a fake nephew, Ben and both lives have changed. Ben befriends B quicker but then again Ben is twelve and didn’t screw up although he thought it was for the best.
We see Carwyn again and he asks if Gio should just give up and let her be.
”He can’t love her like I do, Carwyn. He can’t. Because I promise you, he doesn’t know her like I do.”
Beatrice slowly starts to let Gio back into her life. Although Beatrice is with Mano (there are no sex scenes or cheating well maybe a kiss) in the end after Mano’s life was endangered and he realizes that Beatrice will never feel the same way about him that he does about her. They part and go their separate ways. But even then the trust that was broken between them must be regained.
Vampire politics is like swimming with sharks. Beatrice is related to the water vampire clan of Los Angles. Don Ernesto Alvarez who is very keen on siring his great-great-great, well you get the idea. Lorenzo is up to some seriously bad things again but it goes deeper than they thought.
There is so much going on here but not in a bad way. It leads to the overall plot of the book that will spread over book 3 and 4. We meet new characters, Deirdre, Terry, Gemma and Murphy who all get books. In the end Beatrice and Gio work their differences out and they bump uglies. They figure the labyrinth out and not the breadcrumbs.
Next stop Beijing, Mount Penglai to the eight immortals.
Ms. Hunter's storytelling and weaving is once again flawless. A series I can re-read as much as I want to and I won't get bored of it. A must read IMO.
September 12, 2012
Ok so maybe the way I feel about this book is my fault. I read the first book A Hidden Fire because it looked interesting and it was a cheap buy on Amazon. I really liked the twist on the vampire genre with the addition of the elemental powers. I really liked B - strong female character who knows what she wants. She has had to work hard to get what she wants. Stands up for herself, etc.
Then she meets Gio and even by the end of book 1 she is still pretty independent and wants to live life her way. I loved the secondary characters - Isadora, Caspar and Carwyn probably more than B and Gio.
Then we get to This Same Earth and here is B getting on with her life. She has made a life for herself, has a job she loves and everything is going well. Then Gio comes back after "deserting" her for five years and he wants to start their relationship again. At first B is against it but after a couple weeks she is over it and ready to jump on the Gio Express again. Most of the book is B whining about how she loves Gio but, can't trust him. And Gio just can't live without B because she is his balance and he has never found that with a woman ever. Ugh! On and on and on and on. I love him - I don't trust him - but, I love and want to be with him forever. This drags on way too long. Too much tortured angst - she might as well be a moody teenager.
I knew this series was going nowhere for me once B began considering becoming a vampire so she can be with Gio forever. That was the beginning of the end for me. I just hate the notion that the weak human female has to become a vampire in order to be with the hunky, sexy vampire forever. Why? If she was so intriguing as a human that Mr. Vampire has to possess her then why does she have to turned into a vampire too? To me this is the classic - oh I love you but, I will love you so much more if you change this or that about yourself first. Dye your hair, lose some weight, get implants, become a vampire - all the same in my book. I had this same issue with Cat and Bones in the Night Huntress series.
So I got halfway through the book and decided I would stick it out because I had paid for the book and maybe I might be ok with the plot line. Maybe this time it would be different, maybe she won't become a vampire. but then I got to the point where B realizes that she can't be on extended vacation from her job forever and says, "Well, I guess I'll have to quit my job" and Gio smirks! Smirks!!!!! Flames shot out of my eyes at that point. Really?? She works for years to get where she is and gets her dream job but Gio is so smug about her giving all that up to be with him? GRRRRRRRR!!!! If this hadn't been an e-book on my Kindle Fire I would have thrown it across the room!
So, I'm done with this series which is a shame because it had potential for me. I like the new twists although some of the conventions kind of get old. Like all the vampires having "children" - it gets hard to tell who belongs to who and if they are genetically related "children" or "sired" children. Oh, and the one thing that seriously bugged me that the author uses over and over is the way B asks Gio questions.
"Gio?"
"What?"
This makes B sound like a five year old instead of the intelligent woman she is supposed to be. Just makes my skin crawl to see a strong character reduced to being a pet.
I know I am in the minority here as there are many five star reviews and as I said my disappointment with this book is probably my fault. I probably need to give up on the vampire genre because the convention seems to be that the human must always become a vampire so that hero and heroine can live together forever..... I wish just once that an author would have the guts to defy that logic and end it without the traditional vampires living together forever ending.
Then she meets Gio and even by the end of book 1 she is still pretty independent and wants to live life her way. I loved the secondary characters - Isadora, Caspar and Carwyn probably more than B and Gio.
Then we get to This Same Earth and here is B getting on with her life. She has made a life for herself, has a job she loves and everything is going well. Then Gio comes back after "deserting" her for five years and he wants to start their relationship again. At first B is against it but after a couple weeks she is over it and ready to jump on the Gio Express again. Most of the book is B whining about how she loves Gio but, can't trust him. And Gio just can't live without B because she is his balance and he has never found that with a woman ever. Ugh! On and on and on and on. I love him - I don't trust him - but, I love and want to be with him forever. This drags on way too long. Too much tortured angst - she might as well be a moody teenager.
I knew this series was going nowhere for me once B began considering becoming a vampire so she can be with Gio forever. That was the beginning of the end for me. I just hate the notion that the weak human female has to become a vampire in order to be with the hunky, sexy vampire forever. Why? If she was so intriguing as a human that Mr. Vampire has to possess her then why does she have to turned into a vampire too? To me this is the classic - oh I love you but, I will love you so much more if you change this or that about yourself first. Dye your hair, lose some weight, get implants, become a vampire - all the same in my book. I had this same issue with Cat and Bones in the Night Huntress series.
So I got halfway through the book and decided I would stick it out because I had paid for the book and maybe I might be ok with the plot line. Maybe this time it would be different, maybe she won't become a vampire. but then I got to the point where B realizes that she can't be on extended vacation from her job forever and says, "Well, I guess I'll have to quit my job" and Gio smirks! Smirks!!!!! Flames shot out of my eyes at that point. Really?? She works for years to get where she is and gets her dream job but Gio is so smug about her giving all that up to be with him? GRRRRRRRR!!!! If this hadn't been an e-book on my Kindle Fire I would have thrown it across the room!
So, I'm done with this series which is a shame because it had potential for me. I like the new twists although some of the conventions kind of get old. Like all the vampires having "children" - it gets hard to tell who belongs to who and if they are genetically related "children" or "sired" children. Oh, and the one thing that seriously bugged me that the author uses over and over is the way B asks Gio questions.
"Gio?"
"What?"
This makes B sound like a five year old instead of the intelligent woman she is supposed to be. Just makes my skin crawl to see a strong character reduced to being a pet.
I know I am in the minority here as there are many five star reviews and as I said my disappointment with this book is probably my fault. I probably need to give up on the vampire genre because the convention seems to be that the human must always become a vampire so that hero and heroine can live together forever..... I wish just once that an author would have the guts to defy that logic and end it without the traditional vampires living together forever ending.
March 7, 2015
I was so not disappointed with book #2 in this really great paranormal romance series. I am really excited about the continuation of what is becoming a really amazing world the author has created.
A Hidden Fire ended with B going off to California and Gio disappearing to who knows where.
The prologue begins 5 years later. B has made a new life for herself in California without Gio but is unable to forget him or forgive him for cutting himself off from her life. He’s got a lot of hard work ahead of him before B comes around for his abandonment.
Loved B’s visit to Gio’s home in Cochamó Valley
Chile, where she reads Gio's journals that he left for her. And the journal she writes and the messages she leaves him are at times so heartbreaking….
I really liked seeing Gio work at getting B to trust him again and it was so special watching their relationship evolve into what it does in this book. Love, lust, trust and friendship. They really are a great couple.
The characters continue to be interesting and totally believable. B’s grandmother and Casper, Gio’s butler becoming friends. Gio’s adopted son, who is totally adorable. And can’t say how much I love Tenzin……what an unforgettable character….
Well, she doesn't look that old......after all she is an immortal!!!!
The Elemental world continues with new discoveries, new mysteries, drama, new characters and so much more. A lot of questions remain to be answered.
A Hidden Fire ended with B going off to California and Gio disappearing to who knows where.
The prologue begins 5 years later. B has made a new life for herself in California without Gio but is unable to forget him or forgive him for cutting himself off from her life. He’s got a lot of hard work ahead of him before B comes around for his abandonment.
Loved B’s visit to Gio’s home in Cochamó Valley
Chile, where she reads Gio's journals that he left for her. And the journal she writes and the messages she leaves him are at times so heartbreaking….
August 3, 2005
I’m here. Where are you?
August 17, 2008 “I’m not ready to leave. I want to read more about your life. You’re very hard on yourself, Jacopo. Be kinder.
And wherever you are, be safe.
I really liked seeing Gio work at getting B to trust him again and it was so special watching their relationship evolve into what it does in this book. Love, lust, trust and friendship. They really are a great couple.
The characters continue to be interesting and totally believable. B’s grandmother and Casper, Gio’s butler becoming friends. Gio’s adopted son, who is totally adorable. And can’t say how much I love Tenzin……what an unforgettable character….
“I got a letter from Tenzin last month. She’s so…weird. In the best way, but…yeah, she’s old”.
Well, she doesn't look that old......after all she is an immortal!!!!
The Elemental world continues with new discoveries, new mysteries, drama, new characters and so much more. A lot of questions remain to be answered.
November 8, 2015
Book 2 in the Elemental Mysteries series, this book dives right back into the story, getting us straight into the mindset of Beatrice, via a prologue fantastically written in diary-like excerpts. Starting not too long after the ending of the last book - A Hidden Fire – Beatrice is building her own life away from the supernatural world and we get to witness the changes in her as she grows older, more mature, and a lot stronger and more independent - I love grown up Beatrice!!! Most notable is the shift in her feelings for her vampire love, Giovanni, as she comes to terms with the fact that he has gone from her life, and whoa, is she angry! Cetainly not the beginning I was expecting!!!
And then, right when she has reached a place where she is happy in her life, her world is rocked when, unexpectedly, he returns to her.
“I’m back, Beatrice. I’m back for you, and I’m not going anywhere. You’re not a girl anymore, so run home for now but know that I’ll see you again tomorrow. And I’m not leaving you again.”
This is a whole new Gio we are dealing with here. He has spent years away from the woman he loves, continuing on the search that began in the last book, and giving her the opportunity to live a normal life, waiting for her to be ready for him. And now he is one determined vampire. But Beatrice is justifiably furious, and their reunion is explosive!
“Why didn’t you come?” she sobbed. “Why? I wanted for years! I never loved a man the way I loved you. I’ve never loved anyone that way. I never wanted anyone that way.”
For the first time in his immortal life, he felt as if his heart could bleed from another’s pain.
…
“Don’t you realize how I adore you? … But I couldn’t steal the life of a girl when I wanted a woman’s love. I wanted you to have a choice, not an infatuation.”
And then he hits her with this… “I will earn the woman’s love, if I have lost the girl’s.”
And HOLY FREAKING SWOON! He does just that!
“I love you, Beatrice De Novo. I fell in love with the girl I met six years ago, and I love the woman in front of me even more.”
“Gio--”
“So you make the decision, Tesoro mio … It’s your choice. I want eternity with you, and I’m not leaving again.” He gave her a sad smile. “You can’t make me.”
See!!! It’s sensational! These quotes aren’t spoilery, as his declaration happens pretty early on, and there is a really strong focus on the relationship between Beatrice and Gio for the rest of the book, as Gio tries to prove himself to Beatrice, and she wrestles with her feelings for him, their past together, the issues of trust between them, and her potential role by his side in the supernatural world. And I loved every minute of it!
The mystery storyline continues with Gio hunting down bad guys, and there is a devastating twist as Carwyn and his family are brought tragically into the twisted story. And in between all of the ‘sorting out of relationship’ stuff, Gio and Beatrice travel to Europe and South America, following clues, and searching out the mystery which gets even deeper (and which I am being deliberately vague about to avoid spoilers). There is some great action, and the introduction of a few new characters who all contribute meaningfully to the story.
And then there’s Ben. In his time away from her, Gio has ‘adopted’ a 12 year old boy who he passes off as his nephew, and who is absolutely freaking hilarious! I love his addition to the story, and his interactions with Gio and Beatrice are gold!
“She held out her hand and Ben took it, bending down to kiss the back in a gallant gesture. She chuckled and looked at Giovanni. “And you think you’re charming?”
Giovanni rolled his eyes as Ben continued kissing up her arm. He reached over and tugged Ben’s collar, pulling him away from Beatrice, who was still laughing. “Stop it, she’s too old for you.”
“Well, technically,” Ben said with a smile, “she’s way too young for you, old man.”
But it’s mainly about the romance in this one, and although there is a disappointing lack of sexy time (or maybe I’m just a perve?), the emotion is definitely there and Gio and Beatrice finally get some resolution to the smouldering sexual tension that has kept my heart pounding through two books.
“I am sure of the fire that runs through me. I am sure of the earth I stand on. And I am sure of you.”
I loved it! And with an ending that leads us off into further adventures, I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
4.5 stars.
And then, right when she has reached a place where she is happy in her life, her world is rocked when, unexpectedly, he returns to her.
“I’m back, Beatrice. I’m back for you, and I’m not going anywhere. You’re not a girl anymore, so run home for now but know that I’ll see you again tomorrow. And I’m not leaving you again.”
This is a whole new Gio we are dealing with here. He has spent years away from the woman he loves, continuing on the search that began in the last book, and giving her the opportunity to live a normal life, waiting for her to be ready for him. And now he is one determined vampire. But Beatrice is justifiably furious, and their reunion is explosive!
“Why didn’t you come?” she sobbed. “Why? I wanted for years! I never loved a man the way I loved you. I’ve never loved anyone that way. I never wanted anyone that way.”
For the first time in his immortal life, he felt as if his heart could bleed from another’s pain.
…
“Don’t you realize how I adore you? … But I couldn’t steal the life of a girl when I wanted a woman’s love. I wanted you to have a choice, not an infatuation.”
And then he hits her with this… “I will earn the woman’s love, if I have lost the girl’s.”
And HOLY FREAKING SWOON! He does just that!
“I love you, Beatrice De Novo. I fell in love with the girl I met six years ago, and I love the woman in front of me even more.”
“Gio--”
“So you make the decision, Tesoro mio … It’s your choice. I want eternity with you, and I’m not leaving again.” He gave her a sad smile. “You can’t make me.”
See!!! It’s sensational! These quotes aren’t spoilery, as his declaration happens pretty early on, and there is a really strong focus on the relationship between Beatrice and Gio for the rest of the book, as Gio tries to prove himself to Beatrice, and she wrestles with her feelings for him, their past together, the issues of trust between them, and her potential role by his side in the supernatural world. And I loved every minute of it!
The mystery storyline continues with Gio hunting down bad guys, and there is a devastating twist as Carwyn and his family are brought tragically into the twisted story. And in between all of the ‘sorting out of relationship’ stuff, Gio and Beatrice travel to Europe and South America, following clues, and searching out the mystery which gets even deeper (and which I am being deliberately vague about to avoid spoilers). There is some great action, and the introduction of a few new characters who all contribute meaningfully to the story.
And then there’s Ben. In his time away from her, Gio has ‘adopted’ a 12 year old boy who he passes off as his nephew, and who is absolutely freaking hilarious! I love his addition to the story, and his interactions with Gio and Beatrice are gold!
“She held out her hand and Ben took it, bending down to kiss the back in a gallant gesture. She chuckled and looked at Giovanni. “And you think you’re charming?”
Giovanni rolled his eyes as Ben continued kissing up her arm. He reached over and tugged Ben’s collar, pulling him away from Beatrice, who was still laughing. “Stop it, she’s too old for you.”
“Well, technically,” Ben said with a smile, “she’s way too young for you, old man.”
But it’s mainly about the romance in this one, and although there is a disappointing lack of sexy time (or maybe I’m just a perve?), the emotion is definitely there and Gio and Beatrice finally get some resolution to the smouldering sexual tension that has kept my heart pounding through two books.
“I am sure of the fire that runs through me. I am sure of the earth I stand on. And I am sure of you.”
I loved it! And with an ending that leads us off into further adventures, I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
4.5 stars.
October 30, 2013
My Beatrice and Giovanni:
After events in previous book, Giovanni disappeared and left Beatrice to study, live her life and find herself. Now he is back, ready to finally fight for her and with the new adventure on the horizon. What will she chose? To live her "normal" life or to come back to her "supernatural" life?
This sequel has completely different feeling than previous book A Hidden Fire. It is still witty and mysterious story but change in Beatrice's and Gio's behaviour was very visible. But even though Beatrice matured and Gio finally made his mind, one thing did not change at all - their electrifying attraction!
This part has a little bit more depressive feel and some scenes were pretty emotional. But I really like that it had more action and less library stuff. On to next book in the series!
RECOMMENDED FOR PARANORMAL ROMANCE FANS
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
After events in previous book, Giovanni disappeared and left Beatrice to study, live her life and find herself. Now he is back, ready to finally fight for her and with the new adventure on the horizon. What will she chose? To live her "normal" life or to come back to her "supernatural" life?
“I am sure of the fire that runs through me. I am sure of the earth I stand on. And I am sure of you.”
This sequel has completely different feeling than previous book A Hidden Fire. It is still witty and mysterious story but change in Beatrice's and Gio's behaviour was very visible. But even though Beatrice matured and Gio finally made his mind, one thing did not change at all - their electrifying attraction!
This part has a little bit more depressive feel and some scenes were pretty emotional. But I really like that it had more action and less library stuff. On to next book in the series!
RECOMMENDED FOR PARANORMAL ROMANCE FANS
MORE REVIEWS ON MY BLOG Reading Is My Breathing
November 21, 2011
When A Hidden Fire ended Beatrice was off in California going to college. Gio had 'broke in' to her apartment to leave airline tickets for her, while stealing away a picture of her to take with him. Now 5 years have passed and Beatrice has yet to hear a word from him. Not an email, a phone call, nothing! Every August during those 5 years she would take the airline tickets he would leave for her to go to his house in Chile for rest, and every year she claimed would be the last. Gio wanted her to mature and find herself during that time they were away from each other. And during that time Beatrice became involved with someone new, finally moving on. But now Gio is back and hoping to rekindle what they had once shared before. When something happens to the man she is dating and one of Carwyn’s children, both Gio and Beatrice set off in search of Lorenzo, wanting to put a stop to him once and for all.
I loved how Beatrice didn't drop everything for Gio when he first came back into her life. I mean I love Gio, I really do. But it was great seeing him pursuing her this time around. Beatrice is a stronger, more developed person now. She should make him work for it! But Gio, oh my Gio, how I love thee. I think I loved him more in the 2nd book than I did in the first one. He is sexy, smoldering (no pun intended) and absolutely swoonable! Oooh what I would give to be Beatrice for one day, I mean come on people we are talking waterfalls here! (Read up, you will understand)
This Same Earth had me smiling throughout most of the book with its fabulous storyline. I was so caught up in the romance and the nail biting suspense that I flew through the book in less than 24 hrs. Hunter is one fantastic author creating a world of vampires you will want to sink your teeth into (pun definitely intended). This series is one of my fav of favorites, and I know it will be yours too!
I loved how Beatrice didn't drop everything for Gio when he first came back into her life. I mean I love Gio, I really do. But it was great seeing him pursuing her this time around. Beatrice is a stronger, more developed person now. She should make him work for it! But Gio, oh my Gio, how I love thee. I think I loved him more in the 2nd book than I did in the first one. He is sexy, smoldering (no pun intended) and absolutely swoonable! Oooh what I would give to be Beatrice for one day, I mean come on people we are talking waterfalls here! (Read up, you will understand)
This Same Earth had me smiling throughout most of the book with its fabulous storyline. I was so caught up in the romance and the nail biting suspense that I flew through the book in less than 24 hrs. Hunter is one fantastic author creating a world of vampires you will want to sink your teeth into (pun definitely intended). This series is one of my fav of favorites, and I know it will be yours too!
July 15, 2017
3 Stars
Ubi amo, ibi patria. Where I love, there is my home.
As far as sequels go, this one was pretty satisfying, but it didn’t quite hit the same notes as the first did (as is often the case).
Straight out of the gate this story went in a direction I didn’t approve of. Through a quick series of journal entries we discover it has been 5 years (5 fricken YEARS!!) since Gio has seen Beatrice. Like myself, Beatrice was devastatingly upset and appropriately fuming over Gio’s absence. She had no way of finding him, and eventually (after a lot of pining and inner turmoil) she met other men and “moved on”. As you can imagine, this particular plotline didn’t sit well with me at all. The first book had me on a romance high - regardless of the fact Gio and Beatrice were never actually a couple, it was always obvious they were madly in love and would end up together. So this whole forced separation thing was hard to swallow (Gio’s doing ).
Eventually, Gio reappears at quite an inopportune time in Beatrice’s life . The fact that Gio just waltz’s back into B’s life, with an arrogant assumption that she will now return to him, was quite infuriating. Beatrice’s outrage over the whole thing was understandably warranted, making Gio work for her affections for the remainder of the story.
Meanwhile, malevolent Lorenzo makes his grand reappearance, causing widespread devastation and heartbreak through his vindictive actions. This dude really needs to meet a horribly violent demise, but I’m sure they’ll drag it out until the final book.
Many character favourites are back, including my beloved Carwyn, and a few new faces emerge to steal the spotlight
Overall, it was a good read once the story got going, and I’m definitely involved enough to see this series through to its end.
Ubi amo, ibi patria. Where I love, there is my home.
As far as sequels go, this one was pretty satisfying, but it didn’t quite hit the same notes as the first did (as is often the case).
Straight out of the gate this story went in a direction I didn’t approve of. Through a quick series of journal entries we discover it has been 5 years (5 fricken YEARS!!) since Gio has seen Beatrice. Like myself, Beatrice was devastatingly upset and appropriately fuming over Gio’s absence. She had no way of finding him, and eventually (after a lot of pining and inner turmoil) she met other men and “moved on”. As you can imagine, this particular plotline didn’t sit well with me at all. The first book had me on a romance high - regardless of the fact Gio and Beatrice were never actually a couple, it was always obvious they were madly in love and would end up together. So this whole forced separation thing was hard to swallow (Gio’s doing ).
Eventually, Gio reappears at quite an inopportune time in Beatrice’s life . The fact that Gio just waltz’s back into B’s life, with an arrogant assumption that she will now return to him, was quite infuriating. Beatrice’s outrage over the whole thing was understandably warranted, making Gio work for her affections for the remainder of the story.
Meanwhile, malevolent Lorenzo makes his grand reappearance, causing widespread devastation and heartbreak through his vindictive actions. This dude really needs to meet a horribly violent demise, but I’m sure they’ll drag it out until the final book.
Many character favourites are back, including my beloved Carwyn, and a few new faces emerge to steal the spotlight
Overall, it was a good read once the story got going, and I’m definitely involved enough to see this series through to its end.
June 10, 2016
I did not like this one as much as A Hidden Fire. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't great either. I was really put off at first by the five year gap in time. Giovanni and Beatrice have to start over in their relationship in this one because of that gap in time. I think what annoyed me the most about this book was the way they went around in circles in the relationship. There was too much repetition and not enough moving forward.
I don't mind reading mushy stuff either, but I get tired of it when it's over done and I felt like that was the case in this book. I eventually found myself rolling my eyes when they would tell each other how they felt about each other, because it got too syrupy for me.
I also didn't like that Beatrice was so good at everything she did. She took up martial arts and shooting like it was second nature. She almost didn't feel like the same character from the first book. It was just a little unbelievable.
I guess I just didn't feel like I connected with any of the characters the way I did when I read A Hidden Fire, except maybe Gio. There was little of Carwyn in the book and most of the time he spends in the story he is not his usual self because of something that happens to one of his family members. And Tensin was mostly just mentioned, which is a shame because I found her to be the most interesting character in the first book.
There also wasn't really any action in this book. I will probably read the next one because I want to know what happens next, but I will not be reading it right away. I've got to take a breather from these characters.
I don't mind reading mushy stuff either, but I get tired of it when it's over done and I felt like that was the case in this book. I eventually found myself rolling my eyes when they would tell each other how they felt about each other, because it got too syrupy for me.
I also didn't like that Beatrice was so good at everything she did. She took up martial arts and shooting like it was second nature. She almost didn't feel like the same character from the first book. It was just a little unbelievable.
I guess I just didn't feel like I connected with any of the characters the way I did when I read A Hidden Fire, except maybe Gio. There was little of Carwyn in the book and most of the time he spends in the story he is not his usual self because of something that happens to one of his family members. And Tensin was mostly just mentioned, which is a shame because I found her to be the most interesting character in the first book.
There also wasn't really any action in this book. I will probably read the next one because I want to know what happens next, but I will not be reading it right away. I've got to take a breather from these characters.
June 22, 2016
5 stars!
Second book in the series- More questions answered, more mysteries solved.
It's 6 years later, and Beatrice is now a kick-ass librarian. Understandably hurt that the vampire she loves decides he doesn't want her, she puts everything behind her and tries to live a normal life. Instead of crying and pining after Gio, she lives life to the fullest. I loved reading about this feisty heroine. I loved watching her evolve from a clueless 22 year old girl, to a hard, smartened-up 28 year old.
Gio- what can i say. This man is swoon-worthy! Dorky yet sexy in his own sweet way, he decides Beatrice is now ready for him and makes every move to get her back into his life. But not without a LOT of grovelling. I wished there were more sexy bits. Sex scenes were super mild.
As this story continues, this cute couple continue to globe trot to find more valuable information and save people they love from a nasty villain. Off to the next book!
Second book in the series- More questions answered, more mysteries solved.
It's 6 years later, and Beatrice is now a kick-ass librarian. Understandably hurt that the vampire she loves decides he doesn't want her, she puts everything behind her and tries to live a normal life. Instead of crying and pining after Gio, she lives life to the fullest. I loved reading about this feisty heroine. I loved watching her evolve from a clueless 22 year old girl, to a hard, smartened-up 28 year old.
Gio- what can i say. This man is swoon-worthy! Dorky yet sexy in his own sweet way, he decides Beatrice is now ready for him and makes every move to get her back into his life. But not without a LOT of grovelling. I wished there were more sexy bits. Sex scenes were super mild.
As this story continues, this cute couple continue to globe trot to find more valuable information and save people they love from a nasty villain. Off to the next book!
April 6, 2017
I had a very difficult time at the beginning of this book. By that, I mean that I wanted to throw my e-reader against the wall and perhaps drop an anvil on top of the hero’s head. And if you read the first book in this series, and if you rooted for B and Gio in any way, shape, or form, you will feel the same way. Halfway through the book, I was still mad. I wasn’t sure I was going to get past it. Eventually… begrudgingly… I did, but I’m still a little resentful about all of the angst.
So let me rip off the Band-Aid for you. B moved to Los Angeles for graduate school and Gio proceeded to disappear for 5 years. No one knows where he went or why he went there. The only reason B even knows he is alive is because he leaves her tickets to his home in Chile once every year. But no contact. Ever. B has no choice but to move on with her life. She makes a new home. She finds a new guy. But no matter how hard she tries, she can’t quite let go of Giovanni.
Just when she resolves to put him behind her –to commit to her new life with the good man who loves her– Gio returns, determined to make things work. B is understandably pissed. So was I. So will you. Slowly but surely, though, he starts to wear her down. He’s still arrogant. He still thinks he did the right thing, despite the hurt he caused. And I think that’s why it took her (and me) so long to even consider forgiving him. But there’s no doubt he loves her –that he would burn the world for her– and that’s kind of hard to ignore.
The world building here stays steady and on point. And I enjoyed the expanding cast of characters as our core couple travels the globe. They’re still searching for B’s dad and the evil Lorenzo who’s still a threat. But in the meantime, we get to meet some other ancient vamps and we learn more of Gio’s history.
This book is emotional and sensual, but it’s still not overtly sexual. I’m guessing that’s not going to change as we move forward. And while I do enjoy a little more actionchase on page, I got enough that I could leave satisfied with what I got. Despite his heavy-handedness, I believe Gio is a good man. And B is one tough cookie. These two have great chemistry and I’m rooting hard for their HEA.
This book felt more like a mystery than the first did. I’m feeling that with the whole missing dad story as we learn more about his secret mission.
I’m excited to keep reading, but I hope there are no more unfortunate decisions made for B’s “own good.” I don’t know if I could get over it again.
Rating: B/B+
So let me rip off the Band-Aid for you. B moved to Los Angeles for graduate school and Gio proceeded to disappear for 5 years. No one knows where he went or why he went there. The only reason B even knows he is alive is because he leaves her tickets to his home in Chile once every year. But no contact. Ever. B has no choice but to move on with her life. She makes a new home. She finds a new guy. But no matter how hard she tries, she can’t quite let go of Giovanni.
Just when she resolves to put him behind her –to commit to her new life with the good man who loves her– Gio returns, determined to make things work. B is understandably pissed. So was I. So will you. Slowly but surely, though, he starts to wear her down. He’s still arrogant. He still thinks he did the right thing, despite the hurt he caused. And I think that’s why it took her (and me) so long to even consider forgiving him. But there’s no doubt he loves her –that he would burn the world for her– and that’s kind of hard to ignore.
The world building here stays steady and on point. And I enjoyed the expanding cast of characters as our core couple travels the globe. They’re still searching for B’s dad and the evil Lorenzo who’s still a threat. But in the meantime, we get to meet some other ancient vamps and we learn more of Gio’s history.
This book is emotional and sensual, but it’s still not overtly sexual. I’m guessing that’s not going to change as we move forward. And while I do enjoy a little more actionchase on page, I got enough that I could leave satisfied with what I got. Despite his heavy-handedness, I believe Gio is a good man. And B is one tough cookie. These two have great chemistry and I’m rooting hard for their HEA.
This book felt more like a mystery than the first did. I’m feeling that with the whole missing dad story as we learn more about his secret mission.
I’m excited to keep reading, but I hope there are no more unfortunate decisions made for B’s “own good.” I don’t know if I could get over it again.
Rating: B/B+
May 23, 2013
Solid 4 Stars
A great second installment to this series. Heartbreak, suspense, drama, and erotic intrigue abound in this one. The stakes are getting higher. The clues are plentiful. We meet some great new characters in this one as the plot moves along. Love it. Alot more questions than answers in this one. But so what! I'm loving it.
Why I could only give this one 4 stars inspite of all this greatness, is because of one thing... Giovanni & Beatrice. Through the entire 1st book and for the majority of this one, their connection, their obvious pull/feelings for one another is beyond intense. That push and pull you feel from these two is incredible. Them trying to do the right thing, trying not rush or push the other. Wanting to make sure that the other is sure. These moments that constantly followed them was done superbly. You not only saw, but you felt it. Which is why I'm sad to say that their journey was far more erotic. Far more sexy and romantic than their actual destination. Their "explosion" LEFT ME WANTING BIG TIME.
And I hate when an author does this to me. Especially with a story such as this one. A story so rich & decadent. All the other elements surrounding this story are combined together beautifully. So when an author makes the personal journey of the main characters just as essential as the story surrounding them, then to reach their end and it leaves you with "What? Really? That's it? That's all I'm gonna get?!" How. Cruel. So this was why I could not give this one the 5 star rating I had hoped to.
That aside, the lead into the 3rd installment has me very very curious and anxious. I can't wait to dive in.
I HIGHLY recommend this series thus far :)
A great second installment to this series. Heartbreak, suspense, drama, and erotic intrigue abound in this one. The stakes are getting higher. The clues are plentiful. We meet some great new characters in this one as the plot moves along. Love it. Alot more questions than answers in this one. But so what! I'm loving it.
Why I could only give this one 4 stars inspite of all this greatness, is because of one thing... Giovanni & Beatrice. Through the entire 1st book and for the majority of this one, their connection, their obvious pull/feelings for one another is beyond intense. That push and pull you feel from these two is incredible. Them trying to do the right thing, trying not rush or push the other. Wanting to make sure that the other is sure. These moments that constantly followed them was done superbly. You not only saw, but you felt it. Which is why I'm sad to say that their journey was far more erotic. Far more sexy and romantic than their actual destination. Their "explosion" LEFT ME WANTING BIG TIME.
And I hate when an author does this to me. Especially with a story such as this one. A story so rich & decadent. All the other elements surrounding this story are combined together beautifully. So when an author makes the personal journey of the main characters just as essential as the story surrounding them, then to reach their end and it leaves you with "What? Really? That's it? That's all I'm gonna get?!" How. Cruel. So this was why I could not give this one the 5 star rating I had hoped to.
That aside, the lead into the 3rd installment has me very very curious and anxious. I can't wait to dive in.
I HIGHLY recommend this series thus far :)
December 18, 2015
Well, it wasn't too bad.
I remember I really liked the last book, that it was funny and engaging and sweet. I can't say the same about this one though...
It focused too much on the love story (and this wasn't suppose to be a romance novel 100%) and it barely advanced with the plot. Even more, it was pretty boring at times.
It's not a bad story if you are looking for sweet, cute, love stuff. If you want more action, well... This one is pretty slow in that department .
I remember I really liked the last book, that it was funny and engaging and sweet. I can't say the same about this one though...
It focused too much on the love story (and this wasn't suppose to be a romance novel 100%) and it barely advanced with the plot. Even more, it was pretty boring at times.
It's not a bad story if you are looking for sweet, cute, love stuff. If you want more action, well... This one is pretty slow in that department .
May 17, 2017
Better than the first one. The world is becoming more interesting and Giovanni and Beatrice are connecting really well. Their chemistry works.
Not going to say much. This is a four book series so there's an ongoing plot and this book just takes us further along. It starts five years after the last book and B has "moved on". She's got a great boyfriend (super sexy Mano) and a job she loves at the Huntington Library. She's bought a house in LA and has made good friends there.
And suddenly who should pop up back in her life but the man himself? It's annoying, I'll admit. I did not like how that happened, but Gio won my heart.
We do know that Lorenzo is the slipperiest of the slimies in the world, but that's what makes him a good villain. I'm already on to the fourth book, but setting it aside for some new releases for which I've been anxiously waiting.
One thing I do love about Elizabeth Hunter is the lack of extended sex scenes. In this type of book, a little steam goes a long way. Overdoing it is just padding.
Four stars!
Not going to say much. This is a four book series so there's an ongoing plot and this book just takes us further along. It starts five years after the last book and B has "moved on". She's got a great boyfriend (super sexy Mano) and a job she loves at the Huntington Library. She's bought a house in LA and has made good friends there.
And suddenly who should pop up back in her life but the man himself? It's annoying, I'll admit. I did not like how that happened, but Gio won my heart.
We do know that Lorenzo is the slipperiest of the slimies in the world, but that's what makes him a good villain. I'm already on to the fourth book, but setting it aside for some new releases for which I've been anxiously waiting.
One thing I do love about Elizabeth Hunter is the lack of extended sex scenes. In this type of book, a little steam goes a long way. Overdoing it is just padding.
Four stars!
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December 27, 2011
3.5 Stars.
I enjoy Gio and B and am glad to see them together in this book. I had a few issues and will list below. The Hidden Fire was such a hit with me. The depth of the characters and their backstories -- this one didn't hit it so well -- and in some places, not at all. Plus, I think books in a series should stand on their own. If you read this one and had not read the first one, you would have been lost. And, you probably wouldn't read another book by this author. If I hadn't read the first one and had only read this one, I'm not sure I would have given it 3.5 stars -- probably 2 to 2.5, and I wouldn't have been at all anxious to read others in the series and may hesitate to read the author until others I respect comment.
I enjoyed the new characters introduced in this book -- but they lacked depth. We had a death to a character that had supposedly history and meaning, but the reader didn't get it -- didn't feel it; a shame. There was quite a bit of discussion about Tenzin - but no anecdotes to bring her to life. I knew her and really liked her from the first book, but nothing here. Same said of Steven. We see Beatrice and Giovianni searching through the whole book for Steven, but we don't feel their anxiety. We have a marriage we should have been happy and emotional to see occur, but it was added as almost an afterthought, "oh, need to finish this -- okay, done". We also missed how the elements played in these stories, unless you had read the first. Very little explained here.
I was disappointed. This was just another book. It didn't wet my appetite much for the next in the series.
I'm not aways sure series books are a good idea - but see their appeal - more for the consumer to buy. You can be selling them in one book before the next is written -- this worked for The Hidden Fire, but not here. Sometimes, an epic novel may be a better answer. This just didn't seem to be more than a few transition chapters strung together, not a novel that can stand on its' own.
I'm sorry Elizabeth, but gotta say ... My opinion, some may like it. It wasn't bad, just not terribly good.
Happy Reading!
I enjoy Gio and B and am glad to see them together in this book. I had a few issues and will list below. The Hidden Fire was such a hit with me. The depth of the characters and their backstories -- this one didn't hit it so well -- and in some places, not at all. Plus, I think books in a series should stand on their own. If you read this one and had not read the first one, you would have been lost. And, you probably wouldn't read another book by this author. If I hadn't read the first one and had only read this one, I'm not sure I would have given it 3.5 stars -- probably 2 to 2.5, and I wouldn't have been at all anxious to read others in the series and may hesitate to read the author until others I respect comment.
I enjoyed the new characters introduced in this book -- but they lacked depth. We had a death to a character that had supposedly history and meaning, but the reader didn't get it -- didn't feel it; a shame. There was quite a bit of discussion about Tenzin - but no anecdotes to bring her to life. I knew her and really liked her from the first book, but nothing here. Same said of Steven. We see Beatrice and Giovianni searching through the whole book for Steven, but we don't feel their anxiety. We have a marriage we should have been happy and emotional to see occur, but it was added as almost an afterthought, "oh, need to finish this -- okay, done". We also missed how the elements played in these stories, unless you had read the first. Very little explained here.
I was disappointed. This was just another book. It didn't wet my appetite much for the next in the series.
I'm not aways sure series books are a good idea - but see their appeal - more for the consumer to buy. You can be selling them in one book before the next is written -- this worked for The Hidden Fire, but not here. Sometimes, an epic novel may be a better answer. This just didn't seem to be more than a few transition chapters strung together, not a novel that can stand on its' own.
I'm sorry Elizabeth, but gotta say ... My opinion, some may like it. It wasn't bad, just not terribly good.
Happy Reading!
February 12, 2012
The sequel to A Hidden Fire (Elemental Mysteries) which is This Same Earth (Elemental Mysteries) and I find it one of the more interesting reading experiences in quite sometime. First the fact that are 2 books is almost a misnomer since it really is a continuing story and second I find it amazing that the author manages to take what is basically a love story and inject just enough action and mystery into it to keep you from getting bored with a very slowly evolving love story. Normally a tale such as this would affect me much as Serpent's Kiss (A Novel of the Elder Races) which was a decent love story but much too long and boring to really capture the reader (and was a poor effort by an excellent author). The author; Elizabeth Hunter has crafted a fine story and has all the elements most readers could ask for murder, mayhem, romance, action, mystery .... you name it, it's most likely in here and done excellently, the fact I write all this before I even finish the book should be worth noting :) I fear that I may get to the end and find myself wanting more and having to wait for yet another book but let us hope not . I will update this review BUT I cannot let you know about the HEA because THAT would ruin the story for you since it is a huge part of the storyline. sorry :) I should mention that so far the love/sex scenes are almost non-existent for those who thrive on such things, the very best writers (IMHO) do not need that as a filler and use it only to move the story along or make a point. Even though I have never heard of her, Ms Hunter seems to have a real talent.
May 26, 2015
3,5 stars.
Ugh. You know, I still like the story, I like the characters (more or less, they often go on my nerves, but not everyone can be as cool as I am), I like that the story is evolving and we get more answers... but the romance/sex part is SO frustrating I cannot give this book 4 stars!
The other reason I wont give it 4 stars is that the story here gets a bit slow. You do get some answers, and it still is kinda fun, it's a bit too slow. In my opinion at least.
Anyway, I'm still quite fond of the series, can't wait to see what happens next and still keep my fingers crossed for the uncut version of their relationship. Recomended read!
Ugh. You know, I still like the story, I like the characters (more or less, they often go on my nerves, but not everyone can be as cool as I am), I like that the story is evolving and we get more answers... but the romance/sex part is SO frustrating I cannot give this book 4 stars!
The other reason I wont give it 4 stars is that the story here gets a bit slow. You do get some answers, and it still is kinda fun, it's a bit too slow. In my opinion at least.
Anyway, I'm still quite fond of the series, can't wait to see what happens next and still keep my fingers crossed for the uncut version of their relationship. Recomended read!
October 17, 2015
I wasn't as pleased with this as I was with the first book. Seriously, five years? By the time certain characters FINALLY hook up, it's a bit anticlimactic. Not sure if I'll keep reading the series, kind of lost interest.
April 19, 2013
It's another winner, from this fab series!
November 13, 2019
I was a little disappointed with this book. I loved the first one and couldn't wait to read this. Giovanni seems very controlling. I was finding myself drifting through certain parts. I liked the Minotaur and labyrinth parts. Ben was also a nice touch. I feel it's one of those books where you are left with more questions then answers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2015
The fact that I loved the first book in Hunter's Hidden Mysteries, A Hidden Fire, was actually the reason that I was hesitant to start This Same Earth. I liked the slowly building relationship between book scholar vampire Giovanni Vecchio and library science intern Beatrice De Novo in the first book and was actually just fine with the hopeful ending, but the the teaser for This Same Earth at the end of that book had the effect of putting me off this one a bit. That said, I ended up really liking the way that This Same Earth actually starts with a prolog of B's journal entries, so that when we finally get to the first chapter (from the teaser) it is not as difficult for us diehard romantics to read.
As This Hidden Earth begins, Gio has left B to allow her to have a chance to live her life, and left a big gaping hole in her heart. But despite what he thinks are noble intentions, he really hasn't allowed to her to heal since he's snuck in and left her tickets back to their special place each year and since B's sensed other evidence that Gio has been watching her even though he has kept silent and invisible. In the five years since they were together, B's done her best to move on and carve a life for herself. She's gotten her graduate degree, a dream job, and acquired both a true best friend and a boyfriend who she loves. But having B actually move on really wasn't in Gio's plans - and when he finally turns up to reinsert himself into B's life and resume his pursuit, he's a bit surprised to find a less than warm welcome - and I really wanted to slap him too, so there is a big 'you go girl' from me when B does.
I really enjoyed This Same Earth, and I enjoyed it almost as much as I did the first book. A good part of the 'almost as much' is that while there was a great deal of discovery in the first book there is more pain in this one. Gio has miscalculated the hurt that he inflicted on B and something sad happens to two of Carwyn's children too. As a result, there is less humor this time around because there is less playful banter between B and Gio, and Carwyn is in a much more serious place in his life as well.
Initially, one thing that dimmed my enjoyment of This Same Earth just a tad was another non-consentual visit for B with Gio's son - I don't really want to see this being a recurring event in the series - but continuing on with the story, I saw the purpose for it and for B getting to see what was going on with Carwyn's family as well. Both gave B, and the reader, some crucial information about vampire mates and also offered a view of the liability that B presents as a human who is privy to information about Gio's life and his search for her father.
Things that I really liked about the book: I liked the characters both old and new and I still really love B, I liked that she is trying to make herself as strong as possible so that she can fight back - and I liked her training sessions with one of Carwyn's daughters. I also really liked the puzzle that B gets to solve and the fact that she is the only one who can solve it, and I liked the journal entries at the start and end of the story. But most of all, I liked the feeling that there isn't going to be one step forward two steps back in her relationship with Gio.
So Hunter's This Same Earth is another strong entry to her series and I feel lucky that I had book friends who turned me on to these self published hidden gems and I am also really glad that I've found Hunter's series at just the right time to be able to read the first two books almost back to back and that I only have two weeks to wait for the next book, The Force of Wind.
As This Hidden Earth begins, Gio has left B to allow her to have a chance to live her life, and left a big gaping hole in her heart. But despite what he thinks are noble intentions, he really hasn't allowed to her to heal since he's snuck in and left her tickets back to their special place each year and since B's sensed other evidence that Gio has been watching her even though he has kept silent and invisible. In the five years since they were together, B's done her best to move on and carve a life for herself. She's gotten her graduate degree, a dream job, and acquired both a true best friend and a boyfriend who she loves. But having B actually move on really wasn't in Gio's plans - and when he finally turns up to reinsert himself into B's life and resume his pursuit, he's a bit surprised to find a less than warm welcome - and I really wanted to slap him too, so there is a big 'you go girl' from me when B does.
I really enjoyed This Same Earth, and I enjoyed it almost as much as I did the first book. A good part of the 'almost as much' is that while there was a great deal of discovery in the first book there is more pain in this one. Gio has miscalculated the hurt that he inflicted on B and something sad happens to two of Carwyn's children too. As a result, there is less humor this time around because there is less playful banter between B and Gio, and Carwyn is in a much more serious place in his life as well.
Initially, one thing that dimmed my enjoyment of This Same Earth just a tad was another non-consentual visit for B with Gio's son - I don't really want to see this being a recurring event in the series - but continuing on with the story, I saw the purpose for it and for B getting to see what was going on with Carwyn's family as well. Both gave B, and the reader, some crucial information about vampire mates and also offered a view of the liability that B presents as a human who is privy to information about Gio's life and his search for her father.
Things that I really liked about the book: I liked the characters both old and new and I still really love B, I liked that she is trying to make herself as strong as possible so that she can fight back - and I liked her training sessions with one of Carwyn's daughters. I also really liked the puzzle that B gets to solve and the fact that she is the only one who can solve it, and I liked the journal entries at the start and end of the story. But most of all, I liked the feeling that there isn't going to be one step forward two steps back in her relationship with Gio.
So Hunter's This Same Earth is another strong entry to her series and I feel lucky that I had book friends who turned me on to these self published hidden gems and I am also really glad that I've found Hunter's series at just the right time to be able to read the first two books almost back to back and that I only have two weeks to wait for the next book, The Force of Wind.
July 9, 2012
4.5stars actually
After the adventures, changes and romance that Gio swept into B’s life, 5years of the silent treatment has left her feeling abandoned by and angry with him since she is still very much in love with him. Despite a few false starts B now has a great “normal” life. She has her dream job, a wonderful house of her own, good friends and a man that adores her. When she least expects it Gio walks back into her life, looking and smelling as good as ever. According to Gio’s point of view he has given B time to grow into the woman she wanted to be without undue pressure to become part of his world and has had the opportunity to find and fulfill her dreams and now she’s ready to love with a woman’s heart instead of that of an immature girl. He thinks she can now choose eternity without feeling cheated. This is a love triangle that makes sense! Kudos Ms. Hunter!
I really liked the characters (again), B has become an interesting and strong woman and I really, really like that she has an old fashioned name. Gio is just as handsome, alluring and mysterious as ever. Welcome additions Ben, Dez and Mano settle in so well you could swear they’ve always been in the series, I just wish there was more of them in the book overall.
Things really take off when B finds that the “normal” life she has been reveling in is due to Gio’s preparation and overseeing to her welfare from afar. Incidents she may have written off as minor or coincidental seem to start happening around her at an alarming rate. Before long she is off to Ireland with Gio to help find Carwyn’s kidnapped son. This action links us back to the overall mystery and the characters introduced in book one. B gets to shine a little brighter this time when her memories are the key to the overall game and she gets to be action librarian.
As these vampires have dominion over specific elements we know which one is featured for each book and as we’ve met key characters that possess these elements. Although we were linked to earth vampires, it seemed as if there was more than a little bit of water involved. In any event, it is a treat to delve deeper into the elegant mystery of each particular elements capability. These books could have been condensed probably to one book instead of spreading the mystery across the four that have been released for the series. But then you’d miss the layers and the intricacy of this mystery and the depth of each character. It is a fast paced and satisfying read that needs to be savored in order.
My nit to be picked here is that I didn’t care for the repetition of some phrases and paragraphs – they came across as filler, quite unnecessary. And I really hate this title.
Hmm….seems this piece of the puzzle seems to be blowing me toward The Force of Wind – book 3 of this great series.
After the adventures, changes and romance that Gio swept into B’s life, 5years of the silent treatment has left her feeling abandoned by and angry with him since she is still very much in love with him. Despite a few false starts B now has a great “normal” life. She has her dream job, a wonderful house of her own, good friends and a man that adores her. When she least expects it Gio walks back into her life, looking and smelling as good as ever. According to Gio’s point of view he has given B time to grow into the woman she wanted to be without undue pressure to become part of his world and has had the opportunity to find and fulfill her dreams and now she’s ready to love with a woman’s heart instead of that of an immature girl. He thinks she can now choose eternity without feeling cheated. This is a love triangle that makes sense! Kudos Ms. Hunter!
I really liked the characters (again), B has become an interesting and strong woman and I really, really like that she has an old fashioned name. Gio is just as handsome, alluring and mysterious as ever. Welcome additions Ben, Dez and Mano settle in so well you could swear they’ve always been in the series, I just wish there was more of them in the book overall.
Things really take off when B finds that the “normal” life she has been reveling in is due to Gio’s preparation and overseeing to her welfare from afar. Incidents she may have written off as minor or coincidental seem to start happening around her at an alarming rate. Before long she is off to Ireland with Gio to help find Carwyn’s kidnapped son. This action links us back to the overall mystery and the characters introduced in book one. B gets to shine a little brighter this time when her memories are the key to the overall game and she gets to be action librarian.
As these vampires have dominion over specific elements we know which one is featured for each book and as we’ve met key characters that possess these elements. Although we were linked to earth vampires, it seemed as if there was more than a little bit of water involved. In any event, it is a treat to delve deeper into the elegant mystery of each particular elements capability. These books could have been condensed probably to one book instead of spreading the mystery across the four that have been released for the series. But then you’d miss the layers and the intricacy of this mystery and the depth of each character. It is a fast paced and satisfying read that needs to be savored in order.
My nit to be picked here is that I didn’t care for the repetition of some phrases and paragraphs – they came across as filler, quite unnecessary. And I really hate this title.
Hmm….seems this piece of the puzzle seems to be blowing me toward The Force of Wind – book 3 of this great series.
November 19, 2014
It was heartbreaking to read Beatrice journal when Giovanni left her for five years… And I get that she was angry at him when he showed up. I even felt real bad for her then boyfriend Mano… But I also feel as frustrated as Giovanni when she keeps clinging to Giovanni yet repeating the fact that he left her, ugh… At some point I was screaming for her to “get over it!” Hell, her best friend, Dez, gets it more than she does… and she just learned that vamps exists.
Giovanni’s reason for leaving Beatrice was admirable by letting her chose her path, to grow… but there was also something wrong with that logic when you show up after five years later and pursue her and not leaving till she be with him again.
Anyway, it’s obvious where the story was heading….
I also didn't get why Beatrice would be that stupid to go out and ditch her bodyguard knowing someone evil is out to get her… Nope, I didn’t get that at all… To be captured and rescued again… Was it to show that she can kick ass now since she’s been practicing? Let me borrow her words exactly, “stupid, stupid, stupid.” Right!
Then, everybody, meaning all higher up vamps, seems to want Beatrice for her father… or something about Beatrice that is a natural with the vamp politics, it feels like she is being build up to be something bigger than what she is. I have no problem about making one stronger, something more, I love that… but for me to get into it, it’s got to be supported and he/she has to be somehow different from everyone. Sadly, so far, I don’t see that here in Beatrice case besides the push of words coming from the Giovanni and his circle.
In this sequel, not much was resolved... not Lorenzo, the villain, or where her father is and what Lorenzo wants from him… But at least there were hints near the end. I do wonder, powerful and smarter as they are supposed to be than Lorenzo, yet they couldn’t get him. Hmmm…
I love the turning point of the story, when Beatrice had finally seen the light and realized what she wants. Finally!
If I were just rating this for writing alone, I’d say 5 Stars… Despite the problems I have with the story, it did engage my attention and I find their interactions quite interesting.
Giovanni’s reason for leaving Beatrice was admirable by letting her chose her path, to grow… but there was also something wrong with that logic when you show up after five years later and pursue her and not leaving till she be with him again.
Anyway, it’s obvious where the story was heading….
I also didn't get why Beatrice would be that stupid to go out and ditch her bodyguard knowing someone evil is out to get her… Nope, I didn’t get that at all… To be captured and rescued again… Was it to show that she can kick ass now since she’s been practicing? Let me borrow her words exactly, “stupid, stupid, stupid.” Right!
Then, everybody, meaning all higher up vamps, seems to want Beatrice for her father… or something about Beatrice that is a natural with the vamp politics, it feels like she is being build up to be something bigger than what she is. I have no problem about making one stronger, something more, I love that… but for me to get into it, it’s got to be supported and he/she has to be somehow different from everyone. Sadly, so far, I don’t see that here in Beatrice case besides the push of words coming from the Giovanni and his circle.
In this sequel, not much was resolved... not Lorenzo, the villain, or where her father is and what Lorenzo wants from him… But at least there were hints near the end. I do wonder, powerful and smarter as they are supposed to be than Lorenzo, yet they couldn’t get him. Hmmm…
I love the turning point of the story, when Beatrice had finally seen the light and realized what she wants. Finally!
If I were just rating this for writing alone, I’d say 5 Stars… Despite the problems I have with the story, it did engage my attention and I find their interactions quite interesting.
March 17, 2015
I love Gio, but Beatrice is annoying. Gio keeps saying that he loves her bravery and the strength of her soul, but honestly... that is such a bunch of bullshit. She is a raging idiot who needs to get her head out of her ass and realize Gio was doing what he thought was best. God she is such a coward! It is infuriating to read her thoughts; she is constantly in denial, and trying to justify it despite all obvious signs against it.
January 26, 2026
Love the people, dig the scenario, but to have such a big plot point be a TSTL-moment by the fMC is just shabby
April 1, 2020
3.5 Stars!
This was better than the first book thankfully. There was still some things that bothered me though. One was the separation. I normally hate separations in books, and though I didn't hate this one as much, I felt it was unnecessary and led to some stuff that I didn't care for.
First was that Beatrice had a boyfriend she was dating for two years who wanted to marry her but she was still so hung up on Gio. The boyfriend should have definitely played a bigger part in the story and her emotions instead of them breaking up and she pretty quick gets back with Gio. Gio was thankfully celibate the whole time, but him leaving her and how almost emotionless he was towards her moving on and relationship, just didn't do it for me. Where is the jealousy and possessiveness? I feel like the whole first half was a big missed opportunity to show how much they really cared and loved for each other that they were both still hung up during the five years. Which leads me to something else.
Exactly why were they hung up on each other for so long? I do really like their relationship in this one and they had so much better chemistry, but I still felt like something was missing because them actually falling in love with each other was nonexistent. And B was so mad that he left her, but she kept going to the house and writing journal entries to him which were a bit childish. I also hated how everyone kept telling her to forgive and forget basically, because Gio has never felt that way about anyone before. Like wtf? What about Bea? Why should she suffer and cater to Gio when he was the one who left her?
Some other things that bothered me about the story was how much the heroine cried legit everytime her dad was mentioned, which was A LOT. Literally someone would just say his name and she would cry. It doesn't make sense at all because her relationship was so downplayed with him in the first book that she almost seemed nonchalant towards him, and even at one point said she hated him because he put her in danger, and it's also been 10 years. So what is up with all the crying? Lastly, thankfully this didn't bring in too much drama, but it did annoy me because there was no reason for it to be in a romance. Which was bringing in one of Gio's ex-lovers who is still in love with him. I like how B didn't really get jealous of her, but she also didn't show enough emotion and even became kind of friends with her, which is one of my biggest pet peeves. I'm hoping these first books gets a lot of stuff out of the way and we don't have to deal with anymore crap like this later, hopefully.
Overall, though my rant was longer in this review, I did actually like this book more. There was some stuff that annoyed me, but at least I finally felt emotions towards some of the characters and plot. I like how we got to see more of passionate Gio, and sometimes I really like him and his arrogance, others it makes him seem too cocky and uncaring, so I am back and forth on him. I think bringing in Ben really helped, and I may be biased because of their future books, but I think Tenzin and Ben have the best scenes, and I cant wait for their books. And now that the MCs are together in this, I'm hoping the next books will be better while their relationship gets stronger too, so anticipating the next ones!
This was better than the first book thankfully. There was still some things that bothered me though. One was the separation. I normally hate separations in books, and though I didn't hate this one as much, I felt it was unnecessary and led to some stuff that I didn't care for.
First was that Beatrice had a boyfriend she was dating for two years who wanted to marry her but she was still so hung up on Gio. The boyfriend should have definitely played a bigger part in the story and her emotions instead of them breaking up and she pretty quick gets back with Gio. Gio was thankfully celibate the whole time, but him leaving her and how almost emotionless he was towards her moving on and relationship, just didn't do it for me. Where is the jealousy and possessiveness? I feel like the whole first half was a big missed opportunity to show how much they really cared and loved for each other that they were both still hung up during the five years. Which leads me to something else.
Exactly why were they hung up on each other for so long? I do really like their relationship in this one and they had so much better chemistry, but I still felt like something was missing because them actually falling in love with each other was nonexistent. And B was so mad that he left her, but she kept going to the house and writing journal entries to him which were a bit childish. I also hated how everyone kept telling her to forgive and forget basically, because Gio has never felt that way about anyone before. Like wtf? What about Bea? Why should she suffer and cater to Gio when he was the one who left her?
Some other things that bothered me about the story was how much the heroine cried legit everytime her dad was mentioned, which was A LOT. Literally someone would just say his name and she would cry. It doesn't make sense at all because her relationship was so downplayed with him in the first book that she almost seemed nonchalant towards him, and even at one point said she hated him because he put her in danger, and it's also been 10 years. So what is up with all the crying? Lastly, thankfully this didn't bring in too much drama, but it did annoy me because there was no reason for it to be in a romance. Which was bringing in one of Gio's ex-lovers who is still in love with him. I like how B didn't really get jealous of her, but she also didn't show enough emotion and even became kind of friends with her, which is one of my biggest pet peeves. I'm hoping these first books gets a lot of stuff out of the way and we don't have to deal with anymore crap like this later, hopefully.
Overall, though my rant was longer in this review, I did actually like this book more. There was some stuff that annoyed me, but at least I finally felt emotions towards some of the characters and plot. I like how we got to see more of passionate Gio, and sometimes I really like him and his arrogance, others it makes him seem too cocky and uncaring, so I am back and forth on him. I think bringing in Ben really helped, and I may be biased because of their future books, but I think Tenzin and Ben have the best scenes, and I cant wait for their books. And now that the MCs are together in this, I'm hoping the next books will be better while their relationship gets stronger too, so anticipating the next ones!
April 17, 2018
Well, no doubt the first book in the series was much better. Not sure if I'll continue or not.
This was more of a chapter in a "tune in next week" saga. I prefer books with a beginning middle and end - series are ok. if each has a distinct story. This, not so much - more romance angst than much happening in the story line except enough to try to lure you to the next book where something will happen (or so we're led to believe).
Geo goes from aloof with restraint to almost whiney in need. There were moments in the first book where you couldn't imagine the character behaving as she'd had him do in one or two instances - but in this book I felt the author didn't have a clear concept of her male lead. Also, in the interest of moving her story along, B goes from one space to another simply too quickly.
So why even 3? I am considering reading the next book - maybe after a few in between so the negatives won't hit as hard. But, if I'm considering it, I figure I should be charitable.
This was more of a chapter in a "tune in next week" saga. I prefer books with a beginning middle and end - series are ok. if each has a distinct story. This, not so much - more romance angst than much happening in the story line except enough to try to lure you to the next book where something will happen (or so we're led to believe).
Geo goes from aloof with restraint to almost whiney in need. There were moments in the first book where you couldn't imagine the character behaving as she'd had him do in one or two instances - but in this book I felt the author didn't have a clear concept of her male lead. Also, in the interest of moving her story along, B goes from one space to another simply too quickly.
So why even 3? I am considering reading the next book - maybe after a few in between so the negatives won't hit as hard. But, if I'm considering it, I figure I should be charitable.
August 30, 2021
To say that I'm disappointed with this book would be the understatement of the year.
Characters I adored in the first installment became unrecognizable shells of themselves, the angst was unbearable and the sweet, subtle romance from the previous book turned into something cringy and sappy.
There are few things I despise more in a romance than one of the characters (usually the male lead, for some reason) pulling a disappearing act because they believe it's in their partner's best interest - and Giovanni keeps this up for five (5!) years, stringing B along by sending her post cards and breaking into her appartment to leave presents and thus making sure she won't be able to move on even when finding perfect boyfriend material.
Yeah, I'm still pissed. I can't see myself ever rooting for those two again, so I guess that means I'm out.
July 7, 2020
**4.5 stars**
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