After four marriages, and four deaths, she had everything in life a woman might desire: titled position, swollen coffers, the freedom to travel, and a world that accepted her because it was afraid of her.

Gavin tried not to stare at the lobster. He decided not to inquire further. Whatever Jack's reasoning, best to accept that crustaceans were necessary to his view of the world.

But I don't want to be a vampire drone.' Sophronia winced. 'They'll suck my blood and make me wear only the very latest fashions.

The important question is, what will your wear for a wedding dress, Alexia? You look horrible in white.

Faith was enjoying her evening, the looming presence of Major Channing notwithstanding. He seemed to swoop in at odd times, presenting her with a glass of punch or distracting her from her conversation by glowering fiercely. She noticed that if she paid any one gentleman too much attention for too long a time, the major would make himself known. Then he would disappear and ignore her once more.It was sublimely aggravating. Like being desired by a very large mosquito.

Mortals trotted about in shoes and corsets made to limit movement, fashion for prey.

Steampunk is...the love child of Hot Topic and a BBC costume drama

So, did you hold back during that test?""Maybe a little," Sophronia admitted.Soap grinned. "That's my girl."Sophronia glared at him. He was getting familiar."You are, miss." He continued to grin."I'm my own girl, thank you very much.

Hail a cab, please, Floote. I am going out.""Are you certain that is wise, Miss? ""To be wise, one might never leave one's room at all