The Seduction Of Phaeton Black (2012) - Plot & Excerpts
It was interesting in parts, slow in others. I enjoyed the dialogue mostly. This being my first steampunk book, it helped me visualize the setting. I also enjoyed all the various supernatural creatures. Phaeton Black and America Jones had a lovely relationship that began under the most unique (and maybe offensive to some) circumstances. I started reading this as a challenge because someone mentioned it was weird and they did not finish it. I could see how the initial meeting between Phaeton and America may turn some off. I could also see how one might want to set the book aside. I thought about doing so several times, not because I was offended, but because the story dragged on and on. I got lost in the details and complexity of the characters at times, and just wanted it to end. I'm sure it was just me. BUT if you can get past the "weird" beginning (which didn't bother me), and you love drawn out stories (which DID bother me), with lots of complex characters, mystery, and in the steampunk era, you should like this one. The book offers us a smoother, randier, more woo-woo Sherlock Holmes and lots of very interesting secondary characters with everything and anything -- Egyptian gods, Jack the Ripper, airship, pirates and more--thrown in. I enjoyed the campy feel of the read and the found the mystery plot engaging enough.I just didn't care for the hero & heroine together (which means, the romance just didn't work for me). Given all the issues of rape and sexual violence that can be found in the news, and being a woman, I just couldn't stomach the way dubious consent was romanticized in the story.Ms. America had the potential for being a complex character (what with her Cajun witch heritage), but really doesn't get the opportunity. My favorite character was Dr. Exeter. In the end, the read was just not for me.
What do You think about The Seduction Of Phaeton Black (2012)?
DNF at 5%. Usually I'd give a book longer, but no, just no.
—krizel
Oh that was awesomeNow on to the second book
—azoth
