The Moonstone and Miss Jones (Paranormal Investigator, #2) by Jillian Stone

Nov 06, 2012 Stephanie Ward rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: blog-tour, for-review, owned, will-trade

'The Moonstone and Miss Jones' is the second book in the interesting supernatural mystery series that is intertwined with a steamy paranormal romance. The main plot deals with Phaeton Black, a Scotland Yard detective who happens to have some paranormal abilities. He helps out with cases surrounding the occult and unexplained occurrences. By his side is America Jones, the fiery woman who has decided to help with his cases. Phaeton and America rush to London in order to help Doctor Exeter save the...more

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Oct 29, 2012 Cocktails and Books rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: cnb-reviewers

Reviewed for Cocktails and Books by Marie.

The story opens with both of the main characters, Phaeton Black and America Jones, searching for one another after months of separation. Phaeton has been kidnapped, and America is attacked as she searches for him. Phaeton escapes and America fends off her attacker with a little help from her gargoyle, and they end up finding one another at Phaeton’s flat in London. Once together again, strange happenings begin around them, and it becomes evident that som...more

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Oct 05, 2012 Angie rated it 3 of 5 stars

J'ai pris grand plaisir à retrouver notre couple qui continue à faire des étincelles, mais ici l'intrigue commence à devenir un plus grave, se complique, et prend une tournure différente, qui m'aura légèrement moins enthousiasmée. Il y a des surprises, des rebondissements, des bouleversements, et des nouvelles déplaisantes qui se profilent à l'horizon. Il n'y a jamais un moment de répit pour nos protagonistes.

L'arrivée de nouveaux personnages relance l'action, mais ils sont trop nombreux, et ce...more

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Jan 24, 2013 Heather andrews rated it 5 of 5 stars

Well I must say I cried in the end as it wasn't the ending I wanted, but a cliffhanger instead! I loved when Phaeton and America were reunited:
"And while we were separated, did you...think of me?"
Phaeton rose from the chair. "Every minute." He strode toward her slowly. "Of every hour." He caught her up in his arms. "Of every bleeding day." His gaze fell to her mouth...
I also didn't realize Phaeton takes alone time with America VERY seriously, "If we're going to be rooming together, there's s...more

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Nov 10, 2012 Erzabet Bishop rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: paranormal, erotic, steampunk, succubus, series

Jillian Stone's books are a whole lot of fun. If you like steampunk with erotic overtones then you will love this series. I jumped into this one not having read the first one (The Seduction of Phaeton Black) but I was able to read it without feeling lost.

For fans of Gail Carriger's Parasol Protectorate and Amanda Quick's Arcane Society novels, this world is full of sensual fun with a sexy and imaginative flair that will turn Victorian London on its ear. The paranormal elements in this book are...more

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Oct 08, 2012 Lisa Jo rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: erotica, historical, paranormal, steampunk

Picking up where she left off, Jillian Stone continues the heart pounding adventure of Phaeton Black and America Jones in book two of the Paranormal Investigator series. THE MOONSTONE AND MISS JONES takes readers on a crazy and thrilling journey into the darker side of Victorian London that you won't want to miss.

For Miss America Jones, traveling with the deliciously charming Phaeton Black on the sea week after week has been a dream come true. Yet when her lover is shanghaied in Shanghai, she c...more
Picking up where she left off, Jillian Stone continues the heart pounding adventure of Phaeton Black and America Jones in book two of the Paranormal Investigator series. THE MOONSTONE AND MISS JONES takes readers on a crazy and thrilling journey into the darker side of Victorian London that you won't want to miss.

For Miss America Jones, traveling with the deliciously charming Phaeton Black on the sea week after week has been a dream come true. Yet when her lover is shanghaied in Shanghai, she can feel nothing less than anger at being abandoned. Now she's traveled all the way to London to track down the elusive detective determined to give him her worst. Except when she arrives, she discovers Phaeton is in danger again.

Since he is the owner of a mysterious moonstone, previously bestowed on him by an Egyptian goddess, only he has the ability to unleash its power. With plenty of enemies trying to hunt down the moonstone, Phaeton and America must once again face the mysterious and unknown to find a solution that will keep them safe. As if that was not enough, America is hiding a secret that will certainly change Phaeton's life forever.

It is always a joy to travel through the fantastically fun and quirky world created in the Paranormal Investigator series. Jillian Stone has a rich prose that creates another place of fabulous wonder. Every character and plot point build such an entertaining story that comes alive on the page. Ms Stone doesn't overuse flowery and pointed descriptions, rather she tells her story with direct dialogue. The quick retorts help amp up the pace of the novel and keeps things moving quickly. Not only that, but the dialogue is intelligent and extremely witty. It gives the story a great amount of humor and a charming lightness that certainly make the ride that much more enjoyable.

For new readers that haven't experienced the first journey into this series, my advice would be to read this series in order. I would say it's not necessary, but recommended. The events of the last novel have a close connection with this novel, but the details are gently rehashed in THE MOONSTONE AND MISS JONES and the investigation itself is a separate case. So there is really no chance you would be completely lost but having read the first one will give you greater insight into the characters and their personalities.

My overall appreciation of this series does have one drawback. I would be completely over the moon in love with this series IF I knew what to make of Phaeton Black and his attachment to America Jones. Theirs is such a weird relationship, you just never know what to think. Phaeton has all these beautiful words and phrases concerning his feelings for her, but he rarely voices them to America. The horrible thing about Phaeton is his actions usually speak louder than his words. Unfortunately, his actions never reveal complete devotion to America and that always brings my enjoyment of these novels down. America remains dutifully by his side because she loves him fiercely, but she never knows exactly how Phaeton feels.

Granted, as a couple, Phaeton and America aren't the next Romeo and Juliet. If I were to review this book based on the protagonists as separate characters, they would be fantastic. Phaeton is a great leading man with a wolfish charm and seductive wit while Miss Jones is the inquisitive companion with a fiery spirit and a heart of gold. Together, they do have their fair share of utterly sweet moments, so I can't dismiss their relationship altogether. Phaeton and America are still exploring their scorching chemistry. Fans that delighted in the carnal mischief of the first novel will not be let down by THE MOONSTONE AND MISS JONES. You will still be able to appreciate the passion they share. One so strong, it seems as if at any moment it will consume them both.

Overall, THE MOONSTONE AND MISS JONES is a great story. I can't say enough about the fabulous and exotic world Jillian Stone has created and how it sucks you into its heavenly spell. If you enjoy a thrilling steampunk or a fast paced paranormal, you will enjoy this crazy adventure.

Lisa Jo @ The Romance Reviews (less)

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Sep 26, 2012 Jaime rated it 3 of 5 stars

The book was well paced, witty, and fun. The second of a series, and even though I did not read the first one I was not lost or felt left out while reading. The character's were likable. America and Phaeton were cute, I like them as a couple. The conflict and danger were high, they were out to save the world. I liked the booked, but I didn't love it. I thought it was odd how sexually "free" America and the other character's were. It was a Steampunk novel, yet America had no qualms about having s...more

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Nov 16, 2012 Melliane rated it 4 of 5 stars

Mon avis en Français

My English review

After a first volume that I really enjoyed, I was curious to discover the second Jillian Stone's novel. It is true that I was a little surprised by the erotic side of the first installment of the series but knowing the author's style this time, I completely get into this new story that we have here. Maybe it's just me but it is true that the scenes between the two heroes were easier to read and I didn’t have any problems.

After their little romance during thei...more Mon avis en Français

My English review

After a first volume that I really enjoyed, I was curious to discover the second Jillian Stone's novel. It is true that I was a little surprised by the erotic side of the first installment of the series but knowing the author's style this time, I completely get into this new story that we have here. Maybe it's just me but it is true that the scenes between the two heroes were easier to read and I didn’t have any problems.

After their little romance during their boat trip, Phaeton was forced to leave the America’s boat, and is kidnapped to be released in London without he understands the reason. He is therefore quite worried about the opinion of the young woman about it. You can imagine that this is really not to the taste of America who hesitated to know if he left because he was afraid of their relationship or if he really disappeared. But when she learns where he is, she does not hesitate to return at home and find her lover. However, narrowly escaping to a kidnapping by a very strange creature, our two heroes realize that Phaeton was brought here for a specific purpose, which goes much further than what we thought. They will have to mingle with some characters we knew from the first volume and to investigate to find the moonstone. Stone that might interest more people than we might think.

I was completely captivated by the ideas of the author. I was not expecting that at all and I thought it was a very well shot. This book is truly unique and I think I even preferred this one. The plot develops slowly over the course of the story, becoming more complex, making us think about the actions of each characters and making us discover all the subtleties of the world in which they live. And what more can I say? Phaeton and America are a delight to follow. They complete each other perfectly and it's pretty hard to not love the scenes they have together. We can also observe that our hero has considerably evolved since the first novel. Of course, he kept his attitudes that make him the man he is, but you can perfectly see the love and the affection he has for America. I must say that I waited so eagerly for the big revelation of our heroine, it was really funny to see it.

However, the end is terrible, I didn’t expect that to happen so fast and now I wonder how the events will progress. I feel that it will really be epic. I look forward to further adventures of our two heroes. A very good novel steampunk!(less)

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May 16, 2013 Silverius rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: demons, erotica, historical-romance, paranormal, paranormal-romance, sorcery-witchcraft-magic, steampunk, victorian

3.5 Stars

After finishing this book and ruminating on it for a few days, I'm still rather ambivalent. The Seduction of Phaeton Black was not one of my favourite reads from last year, but it had me interested enough to want to continue the series - mostly so I could skip to the third in the series, but that's beside the point. That being said, I wasn't entirely enthused beginning The Moonstone and Miss Jones.

Good Things

-Jillian Stone certainly knows how to write witty repartee. Many of the chara...more

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Oct 18, 2012 Tash rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, bewitching, steampunk, paranormal, to-swap

Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics

To see review at Confessions

A lot has changed since the last book for Abby Sinclair. Ion is missing in action unless you count his dream appearances and she cannot remember him. In fact, Abby cannot remember anything except what she been told and finds she is engaged to be married to her other love interest, the Prince of the Elves. The rest of her friends are scattered across both worlds and she is about to get in a whole lot of trouble.

Her elvish prince...more Reviewed for Confessions From Romaholics

To see review at Confessions

A lot has changed since the last book for Abby Sinclair. Ion is missing in action unless you count his dream appearances and she cannot remember him. In fact, Abby cannot remember anything except what she been told and finds she is engaged to be married to her other love interest, the Prince of the Elves. The rest of her friends are scattered across both worlds and she is about to get in a whole lot of trouble.

Her elvish prince lover, Talivar, has been keeping information from her including the fact that Ion, her incubus lover, has been banished by the queen. With all this information swirling in her head, in a moment of weakness she trusts the one person she should not trust: her enemy Maurice. Into this mess, add in her half sister Moria who Abby can’t remember is her own sister and believes is plotting with the queen. Abby is losing it in her currently warped mind.

All this leads to the Key to the CrossRoads getting stolen and hell literally breaking loose. Abby dies and is fortunately saved by her trusted unicorn Phineas. Everything starts to come back to her, Including the fact she hates the queen with a passion and Moria is helping them. The queen, knowing that Abby is again sound in mind decides to play her hand, leaving Abby and Talivar running to escape her machinations. It’s not easy with the queen literally watching their every move. They need to escape to the mortal world to save CrossRoads once again and this time it could be very devastating if not saved.

Abby has the fate of the Other Folk in her hands while political games are being played out left , right and centre! Abby is becoming a valuable person since she inherited a tiny problem from the previous book. For those who don’t remember, she volunteered herself to be the Tithe. The Tithe is the sacrifice that faes use to make to the daemons to keep them away. Since her father came and helped to balance the power, it hasn’t been necessary … but then she made a bargain with a daemon to save her friends. With so many people after her and wanting her, you know she is going to be taken on a wild journey.

The latest in the Abby Sinclair series follows a formula of writing that we have come to love. We always know that we are going to be taken on an interesting magical journey and what a journey it is as we revisit the past and the present! There is always the promise of an action-packed adventure filled with turns and twists as we discover another dimension to this world. I love Pang’s writing. Abby is a sassy heroine and even with all her problems she always remains steadfast—and boy! she get herself into a lot of trouble. There has always been something to surprise fans of this series with and Pang knows how to keep her fans happy. I can’t wait for the next book, the ending is surprising and I want to know what’s going to happen next. Pang knows how to write an urban fantasy that leaves you satisfied on one level whilst wanting more on another.

5 Couples
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Dec 19, 2012 Sapphyria rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is book 2 in the Phaeton Black, Paranormal Investigator series. You may read my review of Book 1 here: "The Seduction of Phaeton Black"

"The Moonstone and Miss Jones" doesn't begin where "The Seduction of Phaeton Black" left off. There is a short time span where we learn that Phaeton and America have been separated and Phaeton kidnapped. While hunting Phaeton down, America lands back in London and is attacked while one her way back to their room under the brothel. Phaeton mysteriously appear...more This is book 2 in the Phaeton Black, Paranormal Investigator series. You may read my review of Book 1 here: "The Seduction of Phaeton Black"

"The Moonstone and Miss Jones" doesn't begin where "The Seduction of Phaeton Black" left off. There is a short time span where we learn that Phaeton and America have been separated and Phaeton kidnapped. While hunting Phaeton down, America lands back in London and is attacked while one her way back to their room under the brothel. Phaeton mysteriously appears back in London about the same time, as well. They reunite amid strange goings-on. There is an alternate London, mechanical moonstone stealing spiders, succubi, and treachery abounds. Phaeton Black is a catalyst in a plan that requires his energy and that of the moonstone; the moonstone given to him by an ancient Egyptian Goddess. Now that the moonstone has been stolen from Dr. Exeter, it is up to Phaeton, America, and their new band of protectors to retrieve it and keep it out of the hands of evil.

America also has a secret that takes about half of the book to reveal---ooooh! Mysterious, indeed!!

I don't want to reveal too much so I'll move on to my review of the book as a whole. This book, like all of the other books that I've read by author Jillian Stone, absolutely rocks. I enjoyed every single bit of it. Again, as with Book 1, we have a couple different plot lines that snake their way across the pages of the novel. Each plot line is clearly developed and, due to the nature of each, are completely intertwined.

The entire novel is strong and the plot flows along really well. This novel is fast paced but not so fast that you are left unsatisfied. The characters are solid and I really enjoy their interactions; all of them...not just Phaeton and America. I was hooked by the steampunk, humor, suspense, mystery, and character development. Phaeton is still a horny cad but it's "mostly" focused toward America. America is still a strong, sassy gal, but she is a bit more cautious in this book. They have an interesting relationship, those two. Very sexual, and spicy but the inability of Phaeton to completely and sincerely commit to America is a source of frustration....not just for America but me, as well. He may or may not get over it in this book.

We get to meet some pretty interesting characters in this novel; some with mechanical attributes and others that are just plain, not quite human. Phaeton and America now require constant protectors, two of whom are male, and two are female. I really enjoyed the discussions between America and two of the female guardians when they were discussing their male counterparts one evening before dinner.

There is a serious cliffhanger ending too, so be prepared to gasp!

Review Copy Courtesy Of: The Author, Jillian Stone, in exchange for an honest review!(less)

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Oct 30, 2012 Emily Mishler rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: first-reads, romance

I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.

While decently written and includes plenty of enough action, this book just didn't pull me in. Steampunk with a lot of steam coming from other venues as well, I'm not sure what it was that kept me from really enjoying the story. The setting and plot seemed to be well thought out (I have not read the first book in the series but I didn't have much trouble following along regardless). The lusty bits weren't over the top embarrassing as they can sometimes be....more

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Oct 31, 2012 Marlene rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reading-romances-challenge

Originally published at Reading Reality

Pardon me while I have a screaming case of "middle book syndrome". ARRGGHHH!

Now that I've got that out of my system, let's talk about the book. The Moonstone and Miss Jones is another darkly seductive delight in the adventures of Phaeton Black and American Jones. The difference between this story and their first adventure, The Seduction of Phaeton Black (see review here) is that in this second story the emphasis is more on the steampunk, the darkness and th...more Originally published at Reading Reality

Pardon me while I have a screaming case of "middle book syndrome". ARRGGHHH!

Now that I've got that out of my system, let's talk about the book. The Moonstone and Miss Jones is another darkly seductive delight in the adventures of Phaeton Black and American Jones. The difference between this story and their first adventure, The Seduction of Phaeton Black (see review here) is that in this second story the emphasis is more on the steampunk, the darkness and the mystery.

Don't get me wrong, Phaeton and America are still very much taken with each other, but in this story they finally figure out that they are actually in this thing together, and are not mere ships passing in the night. The story is still steamy, but Phaeton's finally figured out where to moor his boat. So to speak. His problem is going to be keeping things anchored. Literally.

Those visions of strange beings and and dangerous fantasms that Phaeton has had all his life? They are sendings from a parallel reality, and that reality is starting to come unraveled. Along with our own. Of course, Phaeton is the key. Along with a little present that the Egyptian goddess Qadesh gave him at the end of his previous adventure. Everyone thinks this "Moonstone" will solve all their problems.

Too bad for Phaeton that he's the only one who can use it. Precisely because he doesn't want a damn thing from it except to be left alone with America and their 'pea in the pod'. There is much too much power at stake for that to happen.

But in the process of chasing after the evil-doers, keeping the world from unraveling, and guarding America, Phaeton discovers something that he never expected. He has friends. Real, honest to goodness friends. And a life worth fighting back from hell for.

Escape Rating B+: The Moonstone and Miss Jones is a completely wild ride into not just steampunk, but also parallel universes, the potentials of H.G. Wells time-machine, a little homage to H.P. Lovecraft, and the value of friendship, all wrapped into one. And it's a cracking good adventure.

Read The Seduction of Phaeton Black first. This story starts pretty hard on the heels on that one, at least as far as continuity is concerned. Phaeton and America had a romantic idyll in between, one that's interrupted by Phaeton being shanghaied in Shanghai, but the stories crack straight on from one to the other.

There are several interesting side-stories that I would love to see developed revolving around some of the Nightshades guarding America. The smoldering romances there have tons of potential.

I can't believe I'm going to have to wait until next summer for book 3, The Miss Education of Dr. Exeter. I want to magic it up from the future and read it now, dammit!(less)

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Sep 28, 2012 Pam rated it 5 of 5 stars

America Jones makes it back to London without Phaeton, and has no idea where he is, only that he is missing and seems to have deserted her. The only message she has received was a short note that said he had been shanghaied in Shanghai, she did not know what that meant or if she even believed him.

America goes to the flat that she and Phaeton rented, as it is familiar and she is sure Phaeton will return if he arrives back in town. On the way, she is attacked by a strange creature with skeleton ar...more America Jones makes it back to London without Phaeton, and has no idea where he is, only that he is missing and seems to have deserted her. The only message she has received was a short note that said he had been shanghaied in Shanghai, she did not know what that meant or if she even believed him.

America goes to the flat that she and Phaeton rented, as it is familiar and she is sure Phaeton will return if he arrives back in town. On the way, she is attacked by a strange creature with skeleton arms and legs; she gets away with the help of Edvar, the gargoyle that has been by Phaeton’s side since he was a small child. She is told by the creature that there are many more of them in London. Meanwhile, Phaeton wakes up while still in the bowels of a vessel that he does not remember boarding, he only knows that he is soon to arrive in London and as he easily escapes the ship, he heads to the flat and is happy to see that America has already arrived.

America greets Phaeton hesitantly as she is not sure why he disappeared however she believes him when he tells her that he truly was kidnapped and forced onto this ship returning to London. They find out there are strange things going on in London and it seems some entity wanted Phaeton back no matter how he got here. They soon find out that the reason Phaeton is wanted back in town is because the orb (Moonstone) that was gifted to Phaeton by a Goddess has been stolen from Dr Exeter’s lab and according to several, Phaeton is the only one that can unlock the powers.

With the help of Gaspar Sinclair, a man who has been a thorn in Phaeton’s side for years and his team of Nightshade warriors, they piece together what they believe is happening. They find out there is an alternate London called Outremer, that exists and is unraveling and creating havoc in their current London. The Moonstone is the key to correcting the problems and must be retrieved as soon as possible.

Unpredictable danger follows Phaeton, America and the Nightshades while they travel back and forth between the two London’s following leads to the Moonstone. The story grips you from the beginning and does not slow down until the end as the gang tries to prevent a catastrophe. The ending is startling and leaves you wanting more.

What a wonderful gripping steam punk fantasy. I truly enjoyed the story. This is the second installment in the Paranormal Investigation series however it can stand alone as the author catches you up. I enjoyed both Phaeton and America, the chemistry between them is wonderful, and the secondary characters are a joy, the Nightshades are an entertaining group and I am looking forward to seeing them in future books.
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Feb 18, 2013 Alexa (Pages of Forbidden Love) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: wishlist, need-finished-copy

This review was originally posted at Pages of Forbidden Love

I highly enjoyed coming back to the steampunk world of Mr. Phaeton Black and Miss America Jones. I loved both of these characters so much in the first book and I have to say I love them more than ever. I felt both of them were amazing in this book. America grew to be even more passionate and incharge than ever before. She is certainly a heroine that gives a man a run for his money and I love strong female leads. Of course her role wou...more This review was originally posted at Pages of Forbidden Love

I highly enjoyed coming back to the steampunk world of Mr. Phaeton Black and Miss America Jones. I loved both of these characters so much in the first book and I have to say I love them more than ever. I felt both of them were amazing in this book. America grew to be even more passionate and incharge than ever before. She is certainly a heroine that gives a man a run for his money and I love strong female leads. Of course her role would never be complete without Phaeton at her side. There are no words to describe Phaeton, the best I can do is say he is strong, weak, kindhearted but also a horny bastard. He is such an interesting character because you never know how he is going to react to what is going on. I loved these two together, they certainly know how to heat up the pages with their passion and their strong intelligent conversations.

Aside from the main couple this book, the author brought in some old secondary characters and a whole set of new ones. I loved that the reader gets to see so much of all the people who are involved in the story. The new characters balance well with America and Phaeton and they certainly held their own. Their side stories were a big part of the subplot and I enjoyed actually being able to learn so much about them. I’m hoping to see even more of them in the future because I want them to get their happily ever afters as well.

Overall, as I’m sure you can tell the characters shine so brightly in this story that it is sometimes easy to forget about the main plot line. While I did like the plot in this book, I felt it was a bit weak since so much of the book was spent on meeting new characters. Also I’m not sure if the story errors will be fixed in the final edition since I read the ARC but I hope some of the confusing name changes and holes in the plot will be fixed up in the final edition of the book. So I have to say I’m sticking with this series for the amazing characters and I hope the plot of the third book picks up a little more. The plot of the first book was so strong and I hope that can be picked back up in book three.

4 Hearts(less)

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Nov 03, 2012 Cameron rated it 4 of 5 stars

Originally posted on the blog: What the Cat Read

An alternate London that is unraveling and taking present-day London down with it, a trio of succubus sisters who won’t take no for an answer, and a mysterious egg that everyone wants to get their hands on. Who can you turn too in order to help set things to rights? Why, Phaenton Black and America Jones of course!

After having read The Seduction of Phaenton Black back in June, I knew that I’d be continuing the series. I greatly enjoyed the adventure...more Originally posted on the blog: What the Cat Read

An alternate London that is unraveling and taking present-day London down with it, a trio of succubus sisters who won’t take no for an answer, and a mysterious egg that everyone wants to get their hands on. Who can you turn too in order to help set things to rights? Why, Phaenton Black and America Jones of course!

After having read The Seduction of Phaenton Black back in June, I knew that I’d be continuing the series. I greatly enjoyed the adventures of Phaenton and America in the first book, so I was really looking forward to revisiting them. When the opportunity to read The Moonstone and Miss Jones came up for a tour event, I pounced on it without a moment’s hesitation! Yes, the series is that good.

The first thing I would like to mention is, though this is the second book of a series, you do not necessarily have to read book one in order to understand what is going on. The events from the first book a touched upon, but the adventure and mystery that take place are separate issues from those in the first book. However, I would strongly recommend that you read The Seduction of Phaenton Black only because it will give you a deeper appreciation for the characters and the events taking place in this novel.

Having said that, I really enjoyed The Moonstone and Miss Jones. Stone has once again managed to create a storyline that hooks the reader from the first page and keeps them reading long into the night. The adventure, humor, and romance that I loved so much from the first book are back along with a new element: steampunk. Okay, admittedly there were some steampunk elements in the first book, but they were not nearly as noticeable as they are this time around. Let’s just say that the man with the mechanical face left an impression on me. =^.^=

Character wise, Phaenton is still the same cocky, sensual man and just like with the first book, I couldn’t help but fall for him. As for America, while she is still humorous and sassy, I couldn’t help but notice that she’s a bit more cautious and exhibits a more protective aura about her than before. Course, given her condition that isn’t much of a surprise. And this in no way detracts from the steamy chemistry between her and Phaenton. The two of them are still just as hot for each other as ever before. Yeah, there isn’t much either of these characters could do to make me not love them.

Stone also introduces us to a whole slew of new characters, all of whom I hope will be returning for the third book. Valentine, Jersey, Cutter (the man with the mechanical face) and Ruby are an intriguing group of individuals assigned to act of bodyguards to Phaenton and America. Called Nightshades, I couldn’t help but feel like they were similar to the Knights Templar, only with a twist. And then there is Lovecraft, the deranged inventor who I absolutely loved! There are so many different facets to his character that I enjoyed exploring. He’s the perfect antagonist for Phaenton and America.

This book is a fast, well written read. And may I say that the ending just about killed me! Where as the ending to the first book was nicely wrapped up and left you with the sense that things will turn out alright for everyone, this one definitely leaves you hanging and wondering what is going to happen next. It’s torture to know that I have to wait until next summer to read the third book of the series. Normally I hate cliffhangers, but this one is worth it.

If you are a fan returning, or a reader looking for a new adventure, The Moonstone and Miss Jones will not disappoint you!(less)

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Sep 27, 2012 Marsha rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Adults

(3.5 Stars)
I loved "The Seduction of Phaeton Black" and have really looking forward to reading the second book in the series. Phaeton is one sexy stud and together with America Jones the chemistry is explosive. In "The Moonstone and Miss Jones" we find that Phaeton and America have been separated for several months. It seems that Phaeton was shanghaied in Shanghai and America is left wondering if he purposely ran out on her. However, she receives a cryptic message indicating he has been kidnappe...more (3.5 Stars)
I loved "The Seduction of Phaeton Black" and have really looking forward to reading the second book in the series. Phaeton is one sexy stud and together with America Jones the chemistry is explosive. In "The Moonstone and Miss Jones" we find that Phaeton and America have been separated for several months. It seems that Phaeton was shanghaied in Shanghai and America is left wondering if he purposely ran out on her. However, she receives a cryptic message indicating he has been kidnapped and America is bound and determined to locate him either to 'kick his butt' or rescue him.

America and Phaeton both land right back in London. Of course Phaeton takes up lodging right back under the brothel where he lived before. America is sure that he has returned to his former abode and goes in search of him. She has a secret that will leave Phaeton reeling. However, how do you break the news? Before, America has a chance to reunite with her love, she is attacked by a strange and terrifying creature. With the help of her trusty gargoyle, Edvar, she manages to escape to the comfort of Phaeton's apartment. When she arrives, he is asleep and moaning the name of a succubus. Needless to say, Phaeton has some 'splainin' to do.'

Soon it becomes apparent that both Phaeton and America are under attack from creatures from an alternative world. Phaeton has something everyone wants. If they are to survive, they will need to seek assistance from some very unlikely sources. Additionally, Phaeton and America will travel to alternative worlds where they will learn on the wonders of the modern world. These scenes were the most enjoyable and hysterical as Phaeton discovers the wonders of modern underwear.

While I enjoyed this book, it was not as good of a read as the first book for me because so many new characters were introduced and we were dealing with more of their lives rather than concentrating on Phaeton and America. It was clear that Ms. Stone was providing background knowledge for sequels that will feature more of these characters as the lead and America and Phaeton as supporting ones. I am not sure how I feel about this because Phaeton's naughty ways are what makes this such a great series for me. I found I was left wanting for more of him and America than in the previous book.

Even with my concerns, this was a good read. Take a moment and check of this series, you will not regret it.

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Sep 26, 2012 Jamie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: demons, holy-hawt-sexiness, multi-pov, unbelievably-sexy-heros

The Moonstone and Miss Jones takes place a few months after The Seduction of Phaeton Black. America and Phaeton are travelling on her ship through foreign ports of call until one night when Phaeton disappears. Miss Jones has a big secret she's been keeping from Phaeton and is disgusted when he turns up missing. Soon, she receives a message from Phaeton to meet him at their old flat in London. We learn that Phaeton had not left America, and is actually more than in love and obsessed with the beau...more The Moonstone and Miss Jones takes place a few months after The Seduction of Phaeton Black. America and Phaeton are travelling on her ship through foreign ports of call until one night when Phaeton disappears. Miss Jones has a big secret she's been keeping from Phaeton and is disgusted when he turns up missing. Soon, she receives a message from Phaeton to meet him at their old flat in London. We learn that Phaeton had not left America, and is actually more than in love and obsessed with the beautiful and talented Miss Jones. He just happened to be "shanghaied in Shanghai." Someone wants Phaeton back in London and quickly.

The Moonstone, a sacred stone that was left to Phaeton in the previous book by a dead Egyptian goddess, has gone missing. Certain people need Phaeton to find the stone, since he's the only person in the world that can control its power. Here begins the mystery part of this novel. The reader soon learns that reality is not what it seems as the hunt for the Moonstone begins in earnest.

A glassy-eyed Exeter appeared to be enthralled by the very thought of the odd globe. "Long ago, your gift was known by another name. I twas hidden deep inside a Greek pithos and guarded by all the evils in the world. When Pandora broke the jar, its powers were released, but for one at the bottom of the vessel."

Phaeton was quite charming in this book. He's intelligent, brave and completely smitten with American Jones. He learns her secret soon enough, and comes to terms with it quickly. The relationship between Phaeton and America develops quickly in this book. From strangers in The Seduction of Phaeton Black, to soul mates in The Moonstone and Miss Jones. There are several steamy scenes between these two characters that cannot seem to keep their hands off one another, and America has no shame! The affection between these two is genuine in addition to the physical scenes, and they have become a couple to root for.

He gathered her wrists together and helped them down with one hand. "You can't escape from me now," he whispered. With his free hand, he gently stroked and rubbed until the lady begged him to stop. "Turn over." She faced her lover and he gently brought her forward, inch by inch. Slowly. Until she moaned in frustration. He then ordered her to do his bidding...."Make me."

Dr. Exeter, Ping and Gaspar are present in this book, yet not to the extent as in the first. New characters that I very much enjoyed were introduced. Valentine, Jersey, Cutter and Ruby are assigned as Phaeton's and American's body guards to protect them from those searching for the Moonstone. There is sexual tension between these new characters, and it's nice to see America have girlfriends as opposed to Phaeton and his male friends being her only social interaction. I am interested to see where the relationship between Phaeton and Gaspar leads in the next book. There are hints dropped about these two but I haven't quite figured it out yet.

The action is nonstop and I love the steampunk worlds Jillian Stone has created for her characters. The settings are described in detail which makes the book come alive. This book ends on a cliff hanger that had me reeling. I can't wait to see what Ms. Stone has in store for Phaeton and America in the next installment of this series.
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Sep 03, 2012 Jess the Romanceaholic rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: steam-level-hot, steampunk, 2012-read, estranged-lovers-or-marriage, detective, paranormal-romance, angels-and-or-demons, disappointing, victorian, alternate-dimensions, interracial-romance

Ehhhhhhhh.... Not really my thing I think. I was hoping after the last one, that the relationship between Phaeton and America would be a bit more solid I suppose, but I still didn't get a strong sense of any sort of romance or love between the two (lots of lust though, of course). Even though they said all the right things, I just wasn't feeling it.

Don't get me wrong, it wasn't horrible, and there were some points that I absolutely loved, but overall, it was just okay.

2/5

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Jan 04, 2013 Roxanne Rhoads rated it 5 of 5 stars

Loved this book. Phaeton is such a sexy, annoying but lovable rogue. America sure has her hands full with this one.

Loved this second book as much as the first...except for the ending. OMG I want book three now. How can you leave us hanging like that? ;-)

So I eagerly await book three to find out what happened to Phaeton.

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Mar 07, 2013 Claudia rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: steampunk, keeper

I really love this series. It has mystery, romance, a lot of steampunk elements and a lot of suspense ... unfortunately this one has also a cliffhanger and now I have to wait till May.

but this series is worth it

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Oct 20, 2012 Claire rated it 3 of 5 stars

I won this book from a goodreads giveaway. I found it interesting and the action moved fairly quickly. I enjoyed reading the book. The setting was cool. I finished it the same day I started it.

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Oct 19, 2012 Nikki Mcelman-doucette rated it 5 of 5 stars

Wonderful author - a little bit of every genre here!

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Jan 19, 2013 Laurie Bongiorno rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: multi-demensions, magic, cliff-hanger-hold-off, romance, sex

Kind of irritated at this book for the ending. There was so reason for Phaeton to let go of America and go flying of into another demension, the danger was already past. Oh, except for a plot for next book where, of course, another creature wants Phaeton sexually... Especially after hearing his daughter from the future saying how he was never around while she grew up, which was weird in the plot as well. Leaving a cliff hanger, which I hate!

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Nov 05, 2012 Cyndy Aleo rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc, brazen-review

Reviewed for Brazen Reads

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Oct 23, 2012 Morisca Cristian rated it 4 of 5 stars

I found it interesting and I enjoyed reading the book. The setting is cool.
I got this book through Goodreads First Reads.

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Oct 28, 2012 Clarissa Asha rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: steampunk

The story is somewhat flighty, not the traditional steampunk romance I expected. And... what the *&) is that ending?

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Sep 26, 2012 An Abundance of Books rated it 4 of 5 stars

More great characters and an evil ending - can't wait for the third book (which better not be the last one).

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Oct 24, 2012 Jen Pezzotti rated it 4 of 5 stars

Definitely 4 1/2 stars. Can't wait for the next one!

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Apr 23, 2013 Susan rated it 3 of 5 stars

Not as good as the first one.

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The Moonstone and Miss Jones (Paranormal Investigator #2)

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