A review by lisajo85
The Seduction of Phaeton Black by Jillian Stone

4.0

THE SEDUCTION OF PHAETON BLACK is a steampunk adventure of epic proportions. This sexy couple will take you on a wild ride through the streets of Victorian London where mystery and adventure collide!

Phaeton Black is a man of many talents. As a paranormal investigator with uncanny abilities, he solves the most unusual crimes for Scotland Yard. Yet he's also a generous lover that enjoys seducing his fair share of wicked women. When a young attractive female holds a knife to his throat and demands he make love to her, more than Phaeton's curiosity is aroused. He quickly realizes Miss America Jones is a sexy distraction that is more addictive than absinthe. He is searching for a fanged villain that drinks its victims' blood and she's hot on the trail of the man that stole her father's ships. Together, they form an unlikely pair of investigators searching for clues one minute and exploring their explosive passion the next. As the adventure unfolds, attractions grow strong and danger lurks at every corner. Yet the greatest danger Phaeton and America face may be the risk of losing their hearts.

THE SEDUCTION OF PHAETON BLACK is a fun and absolutely thrilling read. Think Sherlock Holmes only with some paranormal craziness, a female companion and a bit more erotic! This novel is all that and more. Ms Stone pulls together a truly exciting read with great characters, powerful plot lines and fabulous drama. Then of course there are the steampunk elements that really make this a unique and worthwhile read.

Phaeton is the scandalously bad leading man...but in a desirable way. You can tell right away he is the kind of man that will leave a woman satisfied yet begging for more. He does not mince words and says exactly what is on his mind, which can lead to some hilarious moments concerning his lustful thoughts. Miss Jones throws him for a loop though. So there is some pleasure to be derived from seeing this poor character squirm under the prospect of change because of one woman. He keeps his life neat and clean of attachments and as America launches herself into his life, you see the small transformations of this deliciously attractive man. While these changes may drive him crazy, he becomes even more irresistible to America.

America is definitely a different kind of leading lady. She is a fantastically unique and independent spirit. As the daughter of a New Orleans witch and an English sea captain, you can expect nothing less. She fought with everything she had when a fight presented itself and she loved with all her heart when the right man came into her life. Love is a foreign word to Mr. Black and America has the patience of a saint waiting for him to wake up and see the reality of what they share. America is an amazing character because she gave as much love as she could give, but never demanded anything in return. You not only want to root for her, but gain a large amount of respect her character.

Still, here's the disclaimer...if you're looking for the sweeping romance with the steampunk background, this may not be everything you want. While Phaeton and America may start building on a relationship in this novel, things aren't perfect between them. Which makes sense since this is the first in a series that will continue to follow these two extravagant characters. So the romance does move a bit slower than fans may like.

THE SEDUCTION OF PHAETON BLACK is incredibly erotic...so much so it's a wonder you can hold the book and not scorch your fingers. Both characters share a passionate nature and attraction that seems to become more overwhelming each time they are together. Ms Stone does a great job of molding their relationship, but I would have appreciated a few more ‘sweet moments' contributing to a fulfilling romance.

Fans of the steampunk genre will not be disappointed in THE SEDUCTION OF PHAETON BLACK. Jillian Stone starts off a promising series with eccentric characters Phaeton Black and America Jones who will take you on one heck of an adventure. Not only does this novel have a thrilling plot, but also an erotic romance that will knock your socks off! Ms Stone has definitely started a series that is going in the right direction and has all the right elements for a bright future.

Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews