Book excerpt: Phantom of StainedSteam: A Victorian Urban Fantasy Mystery London, 1764. When detective William Blackwood discovers signs of the supernatural at a grisly crime scene, it sparks an investigation that plunges him into the city's hidden world of magic. Aided by his unique abilities, William uncovers a conspiracy involving secret societies, dark rituals, and powerful ancient forces threatening London's magical factions. To have any hope of protecting his city, William must join forces with unlikely allies including a mysterious mercenary woman named Lilly, a werewolf pack, and members of the city's elite. But cunning villains like the notorious Maxim Vonhagen and the shadowy Algernon Frost lurk in the wings. William must navigate gritty taverns, glamorous balls, dark tunnels, and more in a breathtaking magical adventure. In Phantom of StainedSteam, the gaslit dark fantasy world of 1760's London comes alive. Ancient enchantments intertwine with the bustling metropolis in a spellbinding thrill ride.