The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook

Title: The Iron Duke
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Science Fiction/Steampunk
Format: Paperback, 384 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade (October 5, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0425236676
ASIN: B004X8W3W8
Author Website:  http://meljeanbrook.com/

I am starting to get addicted to these steampunk paranormal books. 

Looking for a fast paced, fun, and slightly naughty read? Well, this might just hit the spot.

Set in England in the 1800s in an alternate world that reminds me a little of something that would happen on an episode of the Sci-Fi TV series Sliders (not that this is like one, but would have fit into the series nicely). Mina is the inspector and is looking into the murder of an unknown individual found on the Iron Duke's property. The Iron Duke, Rhys Trahaearn, is a celebrated war hero who saved England from the rule of the Horde. 

The Horde (in this story), ruled by one of Ghengis Khan's eldest sons, invaded and took control of England and parts of Europe through a biological Nanotechnology. With this technology the Horde could control people using the nanoagents that infected every person living in London by using different frequencies. The Iron Duke destroyed the tower used to send out the commands.

Mina has given up on the idea of marriage. She is the offspring of an unknown member of the Horde who took advantage of her mother during a Frenzy. England still holds a grudge against anyone who resembles the Horde. It is for this reason she must always be accompanied by a body guard. One of the funny things about Mina's family is that Mina's mother is the leader of the Ladies Reformation League which encourages women to stay home with their children. 

Together Rhys and Mina work to find the person who murdered the individual and uncover a plot that could ultimately kill everyone in England. Throw in some Kracken, zombies, and the fact Rhys is determined to have Mina and you've got the makings of a very fun book. Loved it.

Order of the series:

1) The Iron Duke 2) Heart of Steel