"An engaging metaphysical romantic suspense"

Protector Hale looks at mortals with disdain except for his half-sister Zoe, who he rationalizes has some real blood flowing in her veins to overcome her tainted side. Hale is assigned to obtain Aphrodite's Girdle, a magical artifact that has been missing for years has suddenly surfaced. If Hieronymous the outcast former Protector gains the belt, he might control the world.

Mortal Tracy Tannin wears the belt though she has no idea what she is wearing. All she knows is that she, a plain Jane, now has males chasing after her. Hale knows he must not use his powers to acquire the belt, so he plans to seduce her into giving it to him. However, to his chagrin he finds himself wanting Tracy and not just for a one-night stand even if he rationalizes that the Girdle is doing this to him.

The sequel to APHRODITE'S KISS, APHRODITE'S PASSION, is an engaging metaphysical romantic suspense. Readers will gain immense pleasure from the amusing plot. The lead characters are a delight as both share love and denial. Hale refuses to accept he could ever love a creature so beneath him like his mortal beloved and Tracy cannot believe that she could capture the heart of this God-like hunk without donning the belt. The story line is amusing though the intrigue elements seem more of a diversion. The return of the cast from the previous novel adds to the fun and hopefully leads to a certain cousin starring in Julie Kenner's next Aphrodite's tale.

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted April 7, 2002