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Shy Trans Banshee
Brian, Nik and Darby - three friends practiced in ennui, binge-drinking, hooking up with strangers and fighting supernatural crime (when Brian's not committing it as a werewolf once a month) - have been sent by Abe Van Helsing (yes, one of those Van Helsings) to try to track down a colleague who has gone missing in London. As they putz around the city, following any leads that might help them find their British counterpart, they uncover a clairvoyancy smuggling ring, located right in the heart of the financial district. Who's kidnapping all the fortune tellers in Soho and why? And is it coincidence, fate or something more sinister altogether that Maeve, a timid trans woman taking time out of her job to track down her birth mother, turns up on the gang's doorstep...and has the uncanny ability to know just what's going to happen next?
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2025
17 people are currently reading
754 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 18, 2025
I ADORED this! Tony Santorella is one of those authors whose writing just clicks with me. Bored Gay Werewolf was one of my fave reads last year and when I got the chance to ARC Shy Trans Banshee I screamed!!
Like the first book, this one follows Brian, our bored gay werewolf. He’s now holed up in London with his friends Nik & Darby, watching Bear Cam (actual bears, not as sexy as it sounds) and doing fast food deliveries, in between helping try to find a series of missing people from the paranormal community.
Maeve is one such woman; her mother is missing and she’s desperate to find her. After lending Brian her coat after werewolf transformation leaves him naked in the streets of London, she follows him home and inserts herself in the investigation.
The premise of this book (like the Werewolf MLM/cult from the first book) is just so funny. I don’t want to spoil anything, but just imagine an urban fantasy mystery crossed with corporate greed and capitalist bullshit and you’ve got the vibes. I just love Brian being the ultimate millennial slacker (of which I am one myself) and the gang’s dry and scathing sense of humour. Brian might honestly be one of my favourite protagonists of all time 🐺
Read Shy Trans Banshee for:
✨ LGBTQ+ found family
✨ Transfem, non binary & gay rep
✨ Hilarious dark comedy
✨ Anti capitalism all the way
✨ Millennial ennui saves the day
✨ Proof that spin classes are evil
✨ 10 reasons to chip your werewolf
✨ Dungeons & Dragons as practice
✨ Maybe Brian has found love?
Thank you to Atlantic Books for an ARC! It’s available on 2nd October 2025 🖤
Just as an aside, I will say the editing in the ARC I received was APPALLING. Spelling errors, tense errors, punctuation errors… I’ve still rated it highly as I LOVED the story and I’m willing to believe that this will be fixed before publication, but a little disappointed with the publisher doing the author dirty like that… Anyway, I’m hoping all these errors are sorted before this goes to print! (If they aren’t I may revise my rating but for now it gets 5 stars because I’m high-key obsessed!)
Like the first book, this one follows Brian, our bored gay werewolf. He’s now holed up in London with his friends Nik & Darby, watching Bear Cam (actual bears, not as sexy as it sounds) and doing fast food deliveries, in between helping try to find a series of missing people from the paranormal community.
Maeve is one such woman; her mother is missing and she’s desperate to find her. After lending Brian her coat after werewolf transformation leaves him naked in the streets of London, she follows him home and inserts herself in the investigation.
The premise of this book (like the Werewolf MLM/cult from the first book) is just so funny. I don’t want to spoil anything, but just imagine an urban fantasy mystery crossed with corporate greed and capitalist bullshit and you’ve got the vibes. I just love Brian being the ultimate millennial slacker (of which I am one myself) and the gang’s dry and scathing sense of humour. Brian might honestly be one of my favourite protagonists of all time 🐺
Read Shy Trans Banshee for:
✨ LGBTQ+ found family
✨ Transfem, non binary & gay rep
✨ Hilarious dark comedy
✨ Anti capitalism all the way
✨ Millennial ennui saves the day
✨ Proof that spin classes are evil
✨ 10 reasons to chip your werewolf
✨ Dungeons & Dragons as practice
✨ Maybe Brian has found love?
Thank you to Atlantic Books for an ARC! It’s available on 2nd October 2025 🖤
Just as an aside, I will say the editing in the ARC I received was APPALLING. Spelling errors, tense errors, punctuation errors… I’ve still rated it highly as I LOVED the story and I’m willing to believe that this will be fixed before publication, but a little disappointed with the publisher doing the author dirty like that… Anyway, I’m hoping all these errors are sorted before this goes to print! (If they aren’t I may revise my rating but for now it gets 5 stars because I’m high-key obsessed!)
October 7, 2025
When I reviewed Bored Gay Werewolf, Santorella’s prequel, I commented that “having very much enjoyed the fun yarn and witty writing, I hadn’t realised the book was actually gonna be this well thought-through” and “I do hope there’s going to be a sequel”.
So naturally, when I saw an email invite to an ARC of this sequel, I clicked so fast. And I didn’t regret it for a moment, blazing through the book during my train journeys to and from Pride. Not only do we get more adventures with Brian and the gang, but some new characters who are just as delightful (or love-to-hate, which is also good, obviously) and it’s set in my old hometown of London! All the funny–witty but also dark and gripping of BGW and with a new context and some new characters.
Brian is still a delightful disaster and far too identifiable-with for my own comfort, Maeve is just wonderful — and it’s great to see a trans character passing the Russo test in a time of increasing hostility to trans people having the temerity to just exist.
In just 2 books, Tony Santorella has become a new favourite author. I have to say I am already impatient to read a book 3.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley in the expectation of an honest review.
So naturally, when I saw an email invite to an ARC of this sequel, I clicked so fast. And I didn’t regret it for a moment, blazing through the book during my train journeys to and from Pride. Not only do we get more adventures with Brian and the gang, but some new characters who are just as delightful (or love-to-hate, which is also good, obviously) and it’s set in my old hometown of London! All the funny–witty but also dark and gripping of BGW and with a new context and some new characters.
Brian is still a delightful disaster and far too identifiable-with for my own comfort, Maeve is just wonderful — and it’s great to see a trans character passing the Russo test in a time of increasing hostility to trans people having the temerity to just exist.
In just 2 books, Tony Santorella has become a new favourite author. I have to say I am already impatient to read a book 3.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley in the expectation of an honest review.
October 23, 2025
Banshee let out your wail!
November 24, 2025
Found Family and Fierce Doll
Shy Trans Banshee
Author: Tony Santorella
Publisher: Atlantic Books
Following up on the wonderful Gay Bored Werewolf, Santorella delivers another tale of queer life and struggles plus found family in the supernatural community.
We have Brian – the gay bored werewolf – Niki, the Filipina waitress/nurse in training from the diner at which he works, Darby the elfin theatre darling and Abe, Darby’s 400-year-old, Dutch boyfriend, reunited for their second adventure.
This time, it’s their mission to save the banshee of the title and other missing cryptids.
We get a great summary of the first book done quickly and efficiently in the first chapter, to get new and old readers up to date with the characters and story so far.
The trio now work with Abe at ‘V.H. Flowers’ going from ‘average waitstaff to paranormal investigators.’
Now the troublesome trio are on their first independent investigation to London, looking for the missing ‘florist’ Alasdair.
Brian is falling back into his old habits of binge-watching trash TV or watching Alaskan Bear Cam, sleeping, and eating snacks in bed in between riding his bike around for deliveries and looking for clues like their very own Scooby Doo. In another bout of ennui and lethargy, Brian is comforted by Darby:
“’You’re the smartest, kindest, prettiest thing that goes bump in the night.’”
This will give you a feel for the cute and snarky bond the group share.
This book is funny, the kind of wit and satire that pokes fun at life through our main character Brian. He might be grown up but he hasn’t found his purpose and is fed up of being the literal delivery boy for the company. It isn’t long before he gets his chance to get involved and grow – as much as Brian can – into a bit of a reluctant hero.
The pizza scene – chapter three – is hilarious. It’s that kind of quirky humour that runs through the book as we see the trio investigate and riff off each other.
But it’s not all just laughter, hunting and sarcasm. Maeve, our shy trans banshee is searching for her missing mum and in doing so, finds this family.
There is blood, gore, love, loss, grief and finding oneself all within these pages. If possible, it’s even better than the first book, which I outright loved. It’s bubbling with queer joy and literal magic, but it’s this eclectic found family that is the real magic here.
If you loved ‘The Undetectables’ by Courtney Smyth and like a little violence in your fiction, I suspect you’ll love this book too.
I sure did.
I can’t wait for the third book and I just want to adopt the team that makes up V.H. Flowers.
A brilliant, emotional, heartfelt read.
Shy Trans Banshee
Author: Tony Santorella
Publisher: Atlantic Books
Following up on the wonderful Gay Bored Werewolf, Santorella delivers another tale of queer life and struggles plus found family in the supernatural community.
We have Brian – the gay bored werewolf – Niki, the Filipina waitress/nurse in training from the diner at which he works, Darby the elfin theatre darling and Abe, Darby’s 400-year-old, Dutch boyfriend, reunited for their second adventure.
This time, it’s their mission to save the banshee of the title and other missing cryptids.
We get a great summary of the first book done quickly and efficiently in the first chapter, to get new and old readers up to date with the characters and story so far.
The trio now work with Abe at ‘V.H. Flowers’ going from ‘average waitstaff to paranormal investigators.’
Now the troublesome trio are on their first independent investigation to London, looking for the missing ‘florist’ Alasdair.
Brian is falling back into his old habits of binge-watching trash TV or watching Alaskan Bear Cam, sleeping, and eating snacks in bed in between riding his bike around for deliveries and looking for clues like their very own Scooby Doo. In another bout of ennui and lethargy, Brian is comforted by Darby:
“’You’re the smartest, kindest, prettiest thing that goes bump in the night.’”
This will give you a feel for the cute and snarky bond the group share.
This book is funny, the kind of wit and satire that pokes fun at life through our main character Brian. He might be grown up but he hasn’t found his purpose and is fed up of being the literal delivery boy for the company. It isn’t long before he gets his chance to get involved and grow – as much as Brian can – into a bit of a reluctant hero.
The pizza scene – chapter three – is hilarious. It’s that kind of quirky humour that runs through the book as we see the trio investigate and riff off each other.
But it’s not all just laughter, hunting and sarcasm. Maeve, our shy trans banshee is searching for her missing mum and in doing so, finds this family.
There is blood, gore, love, loss, grief and finding oneself all within these pages. If possible, it’s even better than the first book, which I outright loved. It’s bubbling with queer joy and literal magic, but it’s this eclectic found family that is the real magic here.
If you loved ‘The Undetectables’ by Courtney Smyth and like a little violence in your fiction, I suspect you’ll love this book too.
I sure did.
I can’t wait for the third book and I just want to adopt the team that makes up V.H. Flowers.
A brilliant, emotional, heartfelt read.
October 30, 2025
I hadn't realised this was a direct sequel, rather than a 'monster of the week' type serialised urban fantasy, when I started reading it. The 4 page infodump at the start was confusing - other authors in similar positions find a way to either have a proper 'previously on' section that is not a part of the actual narrative, or integrate background information into sequels more organically. After the shock of the initial pages, the setup and the story becomes clearer.
I enjoyed the setup and the concept of this book - found family, a group of queer supernatural misfits investigating a thing, emphasis on character interactions and character moments at the expense of the plot - but I did not enjoy its execution. The characters did not come across as memorable or interesting enough for me, even if I give the book more credit for being a sequel and thus setting these characters and their dynamics up in the previous installation. I appreciate following people chill, cook or play DnD in cosy-ish urban fantasy as much as the next person, but there was frustratingly little plot and action. These two factors combined led to some of the character moments of the narrative resolution not paying off - WHO is the 'traitor' again? Why should I care?
The sense of place was done quite well, I always enjoy a London-centric novel, and the focus on gentrifying East London was well done.
I was hoping for something more akin to Rivers of London, a dynamic urban fantasy series that will feel like home with subsequent installments, but I have little desire to come back for more.
I enjoyed the setup and the concept of this book - found family, a group of queer supernatural misfits investigating a thing, emphasis on character interactions and character moments at the expense of the plot - but I did not enjoy its execution. The characters did not come across as memorable or interesting enough for me, even if I give the book more credit for being a sequel and thus setting these characters and their dynamics up in the previous installation. I appreciate following people chill, cook or play DnD in cosy-ish urban fantasy as much as the next person, but there was frustratingly little plot and action. These two factors combined led to some of the character moments of the narrative resolution not paying off - WHO is the 'traitor' again? Why should I care?
The sense of place was done quite well, I always enjoy a London-centric novel, and the focus on gentrifying East London was well done.
I was hoping for something more akin to Rivers of London, a dynamic urban fantasy series that will feel like home with subsequent installments, but I have little desire to come back for more.
January 10, 2026
It was ok
August 16, 2025
Shy Trans Banshee is the sequel to Bored Gay Werewolf and it follows said titular werewolf, this time in London, where he and his supernatural-fighting friends are trying to pick up the trail of a missing colleague. Brian and his friends Nik and Darby are running a secretly supernatural shop whilst trying to work out what happened to the previous proprietor. They're not getting anywhere, but then they find that fortune tellers are being kidnapped, and then they meet Maeve, an Irish trans woman who seems shy at first, but also has something she's not telling them.
Bored Gay Werewolf was a fun book satirising manosphere-type guys with a slacker protagonist. The sequel picks up with Brian still lazy, but now much more able to control the werewolf side of his life, and the narrative has morphed into more of a 'monster hunting friends' situation than just focused on Brian. He is still the perspective through which the narrative is focused, but now there's his friends and new friend Maeve, who is the shy trans banshee of the title (it is funny that the final word of that phrase isn't revealed for a long time in the book, which is a bit frustrating when reading).
I like the fun, irreverent vibe of this book, which is similar to the previous one, and it makes the supernatural mystery solving element more enjoyable for me, as someone who isn't a huge fantasy fan but does like sweary queer books. I was glad that the 'Americans in London' jokes weren't too overdone (I'm realising now that this is an 'American Werewolf in London' book), though there was the odd detail that was weird for me as a British person (it's strange to have a side character being described as UKIP when they've not really been prevalent or used as a descriptor in quite a few years).
I've seen other reviews mention that they wanted more Maeve, and I agree. I think that though she's crucial to the plot, it would've been great to see more of her as a character and also delve more into what it is actually like for her to be a "shy trans banshee". Maybe some way of having her perspective added into the narrative as well as Brian's at some point would've helped. There's an offhand joke from Brian at one point about the intersection between being gay and being a werewolf, and I do think that the quirky titles of the series don't quite get the exploration in terms of that intersection, especially in Maeve's case.
As the second in what is clearly a series (the book ends obviously prepared for another sequel), Shy Trans Banshee is a fun queer supernatural story that perhaps has a bit more style over substance at times. I think the pivot from the first book being more obviously satirical to this one being more of a quipping-friends-solving-a-mystery means that the humour is different and the engagement with the real world not as gripping (compared for example to books like Juno Dawson's Her Majesty's Royal Coven books, which very clearly integrate magic in to the real world and into real world issues). However, I did enjoy the characters and will read the sequel to find out what happens to them next.
Bored Gay Werewolf was a fun book satirising manosphere-type guys with a slacker protagonist. The sequel picks up with Brian still lazy, but now much more able to control the werewolf side of his life, and the narrative has morphed into more of a 'monster hunting friends' situation than just focused on Brian. He is still the perspective through which the narrative is focused, but now there's his friends and new friend Maeve, who is the shy trans banshee of the title (it is funny that the final word of that phrase isn't revealed for a long time in the book, which is a bit frustrating when reading).
I like the fun, irreverent vibe of this book, which is similar to the previous one, and it makes the supernatural mystery solving element more enjoyable for me, as someone who isn't a huge fantasy fan but does like sweary queer books. I was glad that the 'Americans in London' jokes weren't too overdone (I'm realising now that this is an 'American Werewolf in London' book), though there was the odd detail that was weird for me as a British person (it's strange to have a side character being described as UKIP when they've not really been prevalent or used as a descriptor in quite a few years).
I've seen other reviews mention that they wanted more Maeve, and I agree. I think that though she's crucial to the plot, it would've been great to see more of her as a character and also delve more into what it is actually like for her to be a "shy trans banshee". Maybe some way of having her perspective added into the narrative as well as Brian's at some point would've helped. There's an offhand joke from Brian at one point about the intersection between being gay and being a werewolf, and I do think that the quirky titles of the series don't quite get the exploration in terms of that intersection, especially in Maeve's case.
As the second in what is clearly a series (the book ends obviously prepared for another sequel), Shy Trans Banshee is a fun queer supernatural story that perhaps has a bit more style over substance at times. I think the pivot from the first book being more obviously satirical to this one being more of a quipping-friends-solving-a-mystery means that the humour is different and the engagement with the real world not as gripping (compared for example to books like Juno Dawson's Her Majesty's Royal Coven books, which very clearly integrate magic in to the real world and into real world issues). However, I did enjoy the characters and will read the sequel to find out what happens to them next.
August 3, 2025
I read the first book of this series, Bored Gay Werewolf, via audiobook on Netgalley and LOVED it (so much so that when Shy Trans Banshee was announced, one of my good friends immediately sent it to me and I wrote an email to request the e-galley the very same day).
It is a very different book than the first. Bored Gay Werewolf is, thematically, about how men are sucked into manosphere self-improvement grifts, but is also how they can get out, placing emphasis on a supportive, diverse community, openness, and emotional regulation. Shy Trans Banshee also touches on the importance of queer community over capitalism an defeatism, but IMHO is hamstrung somewhat by Brian being the main character.
Don't get me wrong, I love Brian as a main character. He's my favorite failson, bless him, and I really loved getting to see where he is and how he's doing post-BGW. But the character with the most interesting stuff going on is definitely Maeve (she's the titular shy trans banshee)--while I was enjoying the novel, I kept thinking, this scene would be so much more interesting from her point of view, or I wish I knew what she was thinking. Her character arc would have worked so much better if we experienced it from her POV, IMHO, and lead to an ending that was fine but a little disappointing.
Don't get me wrong, Shy Trans Banshee is a fun read--I liked the heavier foray into the paranormal underground and the humor is still strong. I'm really looking forward to the next in the series (crossing my fingers!), and am especially excited to see how Darby handles (spoilers for the ending); what Brian does next (seeing him potentially have to navigate a real relationship will be interesting); and, of course, more Maeve!
I am also looking forward to listening to the audiobook once it's available. I'm hoping the same narrator from the first will be reprising his role because he really brought the story to life!
Thanks so much to the publishers for providing an advance e-ARC via NetGalley!
It is a very different book than the first. Bored Gay Werewolf is, thematically, about how men are sucked into manosphere self-improvement grifts, but is also how they can get out, placing emphasis on a supportive, diverse community, openness, and emotional regulation. Shy Trans Banshee also touches on the importance of queer community over capitalism an defeatism, but IMHO is hamstrung somewhat by Brian being the main character.
Don't get me wrong, I love Brian as a main character. He's my favorite failson, bless him, and I really loved getting to see where he is and how he's doing post-BGW. But the character with the most interesting stuff going on is definitely Maeve (she's the titular shy trans banshee)--while I was enjoying the novel, I kept thinking, this scene would be so much more interesting from her point of view, or I wish I knew what she was thinking. Her character arc would have worked so much better if we experienced it from her POV, IMHO, and lead to an ending that was fine but a little disappointing.
Don't get me wrong, Shy Trans Banshee is a fun read--I liked the heavier foray into the paranormal underground and the humor is still strong. I'm really looking forward to the next in the series (crossing my fingers!), and am especially excited to see how Darby handles (spoilers for the ending); what Brian does next (seeing him potentially have to navigate a real relationship will be interesting); and, of course, more Maeve!
I am also looking forward to listening to the audiobook once it's available. I'm hoping the same narrator from the first will be reprising his role because he really brought the story to life!
Thanks so much to the publishers for providing an advance e-ARC via NetGalley!
October 12, 2025
I cannot tell you how long I’ve been waiting for this to be released and how excited I got when I got the ‘your order has been dispatched’ email after pre-ordering how far in advance.
Whilst I would have liked a bit more in-depth look into the each of the characters time before the time-skip/jump, I did enjoy the little teases and glimpses into this.
What I originally thought of as a slow-burner, I finally came to the realisation as the story progressed further that it was a facade to actually being given bread crumbs for a satisfying pay-off.
My one note - HOW DARE YOU RUIN D+A!! Whilst we don’t get to see any 1-2-1 personal connection between the two given we see the world through B’s eyes, what we do see is just damn right sickeningly cute and sweet in the best possible way.
I love the introduction of M as I did think N would not give up on their dreams so quickly and easily (though hope she’s not gone for good) and adding a bit more flair and depth into the mystic/cryptid/supernatural/ LGBTQIA+ allows for more interesting developments.
Also with the few nods to vampires I wonder if B will finally get what he wants (maybe an X Bi Vampire? I will accept a shout-out 👀).
Overall, maintains the humour and emotions that captured me with Bored Gay Werewolf 😁
Whilst I would have liked a bit more in-depth look into the each of the characters time before the time-skip/jump, I did enjoy the little teases and glimpses into this.
What I originally thought of as a slow-burner, I finally came to the realisation as the story progressed further that it was a facade to actually being given bread crumbs for a satisfying pay-off.
My one note - HOW DARE YOU RUIN D+A!! Whilst we don’t get to see any 1-2-1 personal connection between the two given we see the world through B’s eyes, what we do see is just damn right sickeningly cute and sweet in the best possible way.
I love the introduction of M as I did think N would not give up on their dreams so quickly and easily (though hope she’s not gone for good) and adding a bit more flair and depth into the mystic/cryptid/supernatural/ LGBTQIA+ allows for more interesting developments.
Also with the few nods to vampires I wonder if B will finally get what he wants (maybe an X Bi Vampire? I will accept a shout-out 👀).
Overall, maintains the humour and emotions that captured me with Bored Gay Werewolf 😁
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2026
Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed this book however I didn't like it as much as the first. Came here to see what other people think and I agree with the general concensus that it would have been good to have some narrative from the point of view of the titular character, Maeve. I feel like we had a really good exploration of brian in BGW and felt like there wasnt as much character development with him in this book, it felt like a missed opportunity not to explore Maeve.
There are a few gripes hich I had:
1) Lauren was set up to be an interesting villian but was under-explored
2) Yhe final act felt rushed
3) I didn't like what happened with Nik. Her ending felt out of character, given what had just happened with Darby.
4) I didn't love the D and D scene (felt like the author loved D and D and had just shoved it in there for that reason)
That being said, I enjoyed it overall. I liked the shift to London, as its a setting I'm very familiar with. I enjoyed new characters such as Maeve and Quinn. Its a fun, silly read and I will certainly be reading the next one.
Would have given 3.5 stars if possible but it didn't really feel like a 4 star.
There are a few gripes hich I had:
1) Lauren was set up to be an interesting villian but was under-explored
2) Yhe final act felt rushed
3) I didn't like what happened with Nik. Her ending felt out of character, given what had just happened with Darby.
4) I didn't love the D and D scene (felt like the author loved D and D and had just shoved it in there for that reason)
That being said, I enjoyed it overall. I liked the shift to London, as its a setting I'm very familiar with. I enjoyed new characters such as Maeve and Quinn. Its a fun, silly read and I will certainly be reading the next one.
Would have given 3.5 stars if possible but it didn't really feel like a 4 star.
September 14, 2025
*screeches like a banshee* i cannot believe how good this book is!
the characters are so real, and complex, and so loveable, and the mystery in the story is so cleverly woven into the story that you genuinely miss clues along the way in a way that gets you joining in on the 'eureka' moments along with the gang.
the mystical lore is - of course - top tier, as is the queer humour and found family story, but it also at no point feels like a tired folklore trope or any kind of tropey story and oftentimes more like a high-action investigative sci-fi story like The X Files, which i kinda didn't expect from the sequel to Bored Gay Werewolf.
a long way into this book, i had been lamenting that i wished this book had more maeve and that it was written in her perspective (not that i didn't enjoy Brian's) but obviously now i've read the whole thing i see how that wouldn't have worked.
i'm excited to see what comes next, even if i am a little bit brokenhearted.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
the characters are so real, and complex, and so loveable, and the mystery in the story is so cleverly woven into the story that you genuinely miss clues along the way in a way that gets you joining in on the 'eureka' moments along with the gang.
the mystical lore is - of course - top tier, as is the queer humour and found family story, but it also at no point feels like a tired folklore trope or any kind of tropey story and oftentimes more like a high-action investigative sci-fi story like The X Files, which i kinda didn't expect from the sequel to Bored Gay Werewolf.
a long way into this book, i had been lamenting that i wished this book had more maeve and that it was written in her perspective (not that i didn't enjoy Brian's) but obviously now i've read the whole thing i see how that wouldn't have worked.
i'm excited to see what comes next, even if i am a little bit brokenhearted.
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 25, 2025
I had SO much fun with this book, and actually preferred it to the first in the series (Bored Gay Werewolf). I loved having the whole back together without infuriating unlikeable characters/villains from first book.
Bringing Maeve into the story was an extra plus for me, as I loved all of her Irish-isms and tea drinking. The move to London and having everyone under one roof also brought alot to the characters relationship developments. I laughed out loud a few times and loved the whole journey, I look forward to more adventures of Brian and the gang in future books (I hope). I really want to see more from Quinn!
My only complaint is that in certain moments, such as action scenes I feel like there isn’t enough description and time spent on them. I’d quite like to spend a little more time in those intense moments too.
Bringing Maeve into the story was an extra plus for me, as I loved all of her Irish-isms and tea drinking. The move to London and having everyone under one roof also brought alot to the characters relationship developments. I laughed out loud a few times and loved the whole journey, I look forward to more adventures of Brian and the gang in future books (I hope). I really want to see more from Quinn!
My only complaint is that in certain moments, such as action scenes I feel like there isn’t enough description and time spent on them. I’d quite like to spend a little more time in those intense moments too.
December 2, 2025
This built excellently upon ‘bored gay werewolf’, expanding the great parts and adding even more to love. Being set in London was a personal improvement but even aside from that the prose felt smoother and quicker to read, holding my attention throughout. Maeve made a great addition to counteract the wacky nature of the previously established characters.
Those are all immaterial compared to the excellent plot construction that tied everything together so well that I’m pretty sure if I read this again I’d discover dozens of previously innocuous lines that built out the ending even more so. I guess that’s the beauty of having a banshee being a key character, they be knowing the future.
Anyway I hope the next one is something like ‘anxious bisexual vampire’
Those are all immaterial compared to the excellent plot construction that tied everything together so well that I’m pretty sure if I read this again I’d discover dozens of previously innocuous lines that built out the ending even more so. I guess that’s the beauty of having a banshee being a key character, they be knowing the future.
Anyway I hope the next one is something like ‘anxious bisexual vampire’
October 7, 2025
It was great to check in on Brian - now living in London following the events in Bored Gay Werewolf, and a short time jump. This was a great sequel - the same humour as the first, which is exactly what I wanted. I love the inclusion of more types of supernatural people, and the more familiar setting! Santorella strikes a great balance between magical realism and the fantastical. I love the way Brian is just a normal guy, reacting to some crazy plotlines, and that he has a down-to-earth reaction. A completely different type of fantasy novel, but one I continue to enjoy - I hope the series keeps 'em coming!
Thanks to Santorella, Atlantic Books and Net Galley for the chance to review!
Thanks to Santorella, Atlantic Books and Net Galley for the chance to review!
November 19, 2025
4.5/5
First off,bonus marks for a Glow in the Dark dust jacket on the hardcover, thats a nice touch, and just like with Bored Gay Werewolf, the cover of this is spectacular
This book is just so much fun, it knows exactly what it is and plays to its strengths, character chemistry and the absurdity that runs throughout,with great one liners thrown around and the exact level of humour I enjoy. It really is such a joy to be back with Brian, Nik and Darby.
But it is not all fun and games,managing to take me by surprise at the end, leading to a massive shift in the group we established in book 1, and a new status quo to be set up in the next book.
First off,bonus marks for a Glow in the Dark dust jacket on the hardcover, thats a nice touch, and just like with Bored Gay Werewolf, the cover of this is spectacular
This book is just so much fun, it knows exactly what it is and plays to its strengths, character chemistry and the absurdity that runs throughout,with great one liners thrown around and the exact level of humour I enjoy. It really is such a joy to be back with Brian, Nik and Darby.
But it is not all fun and games,managing to take me by surprise at the end, leading to a massive shift in the group we established in book 1, and a new status quo to be set up in the next book.
January 8, 2026
Being Human and Buffy the Vampire Slayer are two of my all time favorite television shows and I am always on the search for pieces of media to fill the void. Tony Santorella 100% captured the vibes of these beloved series with his books, Bored Gay Werewolf & Shy Trans Banshee! Full of supernatural sleuthing, magical chaos, Scooby gang vibes, mystery, mayhem, found family, community, social commentary and hoot & a half dark humor - this series is a must read!!
PS I love this cast of characters so much & I’m so excited to see what happens next in book 3!! 📚
PS I love this cast of characters so much & I’m so excited to see what happens next in book 3!! 📚
September 24, 2025
The humorous characterisation that I loved in Bored Gay Werewolf carries through into this book, with a light voice that makes it an easy and enjoyable read. The plot was, well, very plotty. Lots happened. But there wasn't the thematic depth. While Bored Gay Werewolf used humour to satirise toxic masculinity in corporate culture, this sequel just used humour to be mildly amusing. It's not a bad book in itself, but it's a letdown after the first.
December 16, 2025
A cut above the rest
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A worthy addition to the canon of lighthearted supernatural mystery, Santorella’s sequel to the raucous Bored Gay Werewolf reunites us with the contrary cast of that opener and gives us more: more mystery, more supernatural, more grief. Tightly plotted, with everything that turns up having its part to play, there’s growth and change as well as familiar tropes. London is lightly sketched but feels lived-in, but the details are what makes this a cut above the rest.
—
A worthy addition to the canon of lighthearted supernatural mystery, Santorella’s sequel to the raucous Bored Gay Werewolf reunites us with the contrary cast of that opener and gives us more: more mystery, more supernatural, more grief. Tightly plotted, with everything that turns up having its part to play, there’s growth and change as well as familiar tropes. London is lightly sketched but feels lived-in, but the details are what makes this a cut above the rest.
November 8, 2025
In this book Brian and his friends go on another adventure. I loved everythimg about this book apart from one thing, nobody I know would drink tea with a curry. Thanks for another fun read Mr. Santorella!
November 5, 2025
A fun read, I enjoyed it a lot more than the first! Maeve is fantastic. I'd love to read more about a certain Druid Werewolf though 👀
November 10, 2025
3.5/5 really enjoy returning to this world. Queer found family caper. Save the dolls. Let the banshee scream.
December 2, 2025
Not my thing at all but I quite enjoyed it and wanted to know more about the different likeable characters.
December 16, 2025
I wasn’t expecting this book to be such an easy and entertaining read… but it definitely held up (if not surpassed) its predecessor!!!
Book 3 please!!!!!!!!!!!🙏
Book 3 please!!!!!!!!!!!🙏
January 6, 2026
So. Much. Stuff. Happens! Loved the shy banshee though
Plot > Vibes
Plot > Vibes
January 18, 2026
like a queer rivers of London, but better
October 1, 2025
Okay you know what? Give me 14 of ‘em right now!
This is a sequel to Bored Gay Werewolf so we join the trio of Brian, Nik & Darby as they try to track down a missing colleague in London. On their mission they encounter a shy trans woman Maeve who is over from Ireland looking for her mom.
Just like the first book this is such a fun time. Everything I could’ve wanted from a sequel tbh. More time with the gang who are just so loveable, more silly hijinks, more of Brian being annoyed at having to do anything ever (relatable king).
Loved it. And released at the start of October? Come on tis very much the season!!
*read via NetGalley
This is a sequel to Bored Gay Werewolf so we join the trio of Brian, Nik & Darby as they try to track down a missing colleague in London. On their mission they encounter a shy trans woman Maeve who is over from Ireland looking for her mom.
Just like the first book this is such a fun time. Everything I could’ve wanted from a sequel tbh. More time with the gang who are just so loveable, more silly hijinks, more of Brian being annoyed at having to do anything ever (relatable king).
Loved it. And released at the start of October? Come on tis very much the season!!
*read via NetGalley
August 23, 2025
Thank you so much @aimediocre/@atlanticbooks for sending me this proof copy of 'Shy Trans Banshee' by Tony Santorella out in the UK on the 2nd of October 💙
Did I absorb this all in one weekend? Why yes, yes I did.
'Shy Trans Banshee' is the sequel to 'Bored Gay Werewolf' which follows the core three friends Brian, Nik and Darby as they move to London to help Abe with his supernatural crime solving services and also run a flower shop, obviously. The gang are tasked with looking for a missing colleague whose disappearance may be linked to other supernatural disappearances across London when a young girl comes into their life.
My god this was so much fun, but I expected nothing less! These characters are so fun and the relationship between the core characters of the story is so wholesome. The stakes and the action within this novel are much higher than in the first one with the gang constantly in danger and essentially becoming a supernatural mystery inc (Darby is Daphne and Brian is Scooby, obviously). Maeve was such an excellent addition to the gang and I loved how her narrative influenced the story - obviously can't say too much without spoiling anything. I can picture this so clearly as a TV show but I will need Harvey Guillén as Brian and Mason Alexander Park as Darby please & thank you. I love this series so much, what an amazing addition to the world.
Did I absorb this all in one weekend? Why yes, yes I did.
'Shy Trans Banshee' is the sequel to 'Bored Gay Werewolf' which follows the core three friends Brian, Nik and Darby as they move to London to help Abe with his supernatural crime solving services and also run a flower shop, obviously. The gang are tasked with looking for a missing colleague whose disappearance may be linked to other supernatural disappearances across London when a young girl comes into their life.
My god this was so much fun, but I expected nothing less! These characters are so fun and the relationship between the core characters of the story is so wholesome. The stakes and the action within this novel are much higher than in the first one with the gang constantly in danger and essentially becoming a supernatural mystery inc (Darby is Daphne and Brian is Scooby, obviously). Maeve was such an excellent addition to the gang and I loved how her narrative influenced the story - obviously can't say too much without spoiling anything. I can picture this so clearly as a TV show but I will need Harvey Guillén as Brian and Mason Alexander Park as Darby please & thank you. I love this series so much, what an amazing addition to the world.
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