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Supernatural Society #2
Romancing the Werewolf
Werewolf in trouble...
Biffy, newly minted Alpha of the London Pack, is not having a good Christmas. His Beta abandoned him, his werewolves object to his curtain choices, and someone keeps leaving babies on his doorstep.
Professor Randolph Lyall returns home to London after twenty years abroad, afraid of what he might find. With his pack in chaos and his Alpha in crisis, it will take all his Beta efficiency to set everything to rights. Perhaps, in the process, he may even determine how to mend his own heart.
New York Times bestselling author Gail Carriger presents a charming love story set in her popular steampunk Parasolverse. Featuring the long-awaited reunion between everyone’s favorite quietly capable Beta and the werewolf Alpha dandy who let him slip away.
This sweet romance is full of unexpected babysitting, holiday decorations, and no small amount of pining. Look for surprise appearances from popular side characters and the occasional strategic application of italics.
The Supernatural Society novellas stand alone and may be read in any order. But if you’re a stickler, this story chronologically follows Imprudence, and ties specifically to events in Timeless.
Delicate Sensibilities?
Contains men who love other men and have waited decades to do so.
Biffy, newly minted Alpha of the London Pack, is not having a good Christmas. His Beta abandoned him, his werewolves object to his curtain choices, and someone keeps leaving babies on his doorstep.
Professor Randolph Lyall returns home to London after twenty years abroad, afraid of what he might find. With his pack in chaos and his Alpha in crisis, it will take all his Beta efficiency to set everything to rights. Perhaps, in the process, he may even determine how to mend his own heart.
New York Times bestselling author Gail Carriger presents a charming love story set in her popular steampunk Parasolverse. Featuring the long-awaited reunion between everyone’s favorite quietly capable Beta and the werewolf Alpha dandy who let him slip away.
This sweet romance is full of unexpected babysitting, holiday decorations, and no small amount of pining. Look for surprise appearances from popular side characters and the occasional strategic application of italics.
The Supernatural Society novellas stand alone and may be read in any order. But if you’re a stickler, this story chronologically follows Imprudence, and ties specifically to events in Timeless.
Delicate Sensibilities?
Contains men who love other men and have waited decades to do so.
190 pages, ebook
First published November 5, 2017
360 people are currently reading
3043 people want to read
About the author
Gail Carriger
63 books15.4k followersGail Carriger writes comedies of manners mixed with paranormal romance (and the sexy San Andreas Shifter series as G L Carriger). Her books include the Parasol Protectorate and the Finishing School series. She is published in many languages and has over a dozen NYT bestsellers. She was once an archaeologist and is fond of shoes, octopuses, and tea. Join the Chirrup for sneak peaks of upcoming giggles: http://gailcarriger.com/chirrup
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 585 reviews
January 8, 2022
This book is only for people who are already already engrossed in the Parasolverse and who are fans of Gail Carriger's series.
So we were all waiting to see what eventually happened to Biffy and Lyall and this is it! Everyone say "ah!" Just what we expected from this very entertaining author and more. I would seriously like to meet Gail one day. If she is half as much fun as her books she must be wonderful indeed.
These two characters have been favourites of mine since they first appeared and it was so nice to see them both happy at last. There is also an interesting hint of a certain change which is necessary for a happy future. Loved it! Keep these books coming please Gail!
So we were all waiting to see what eventually happened to Biffy and Lyall and this is it! Everyone say "ah!" Just what we expected from this very entertaining author and more. I would seriously like to meet Gail one day. If she is half as much fun as her books she must be wonderful indeed.
These two characters have been favourites of mine since they first appeared and it was so nice to see them both happy at last. There is also an interesting hint of a certain change which is necessary for a happy future. Loved it! Keep these books coming please Gail!
April 16, 2020
Cute, fluffy, and the long-awaited happily ever after. Complete with babies, the best of men's fashion, and arguments about purple drapes.
January 18, 2019
I listened to this book. There's a warning about the sexual relationship (male/male) between the two main characters and I thought - steamy sex scenes! However, it was IMO mild - more fade to black than anything. But I do love these characters from Gail's other books and it was fun to listen to what's going on with them. The reader is Peter Newman (sp?) and he does a pretty good job. He doesn't pronounce the names the same as Moira Quirk who does the other books so I felt the need to correct him :) And anytime there was an internal thought - the voice turned echoy, which was really annoying! Otherwise, I loved the story and wish it was longer than four hours!
wishlist
October 16, 2016Partial blurb:
LBGT reunion romance featuring your favorite reluctant werewolf dandy, the return of a certain quietly efficient Beta, and a very unexpected gift.
Oh please, please, please tell me this is going to be about Professor Lyall & Biffy, it would really make my day if it is!!
I'm hoping we might get a Lord Akeldama story in this series too!
LBGT reunion romance featuring your favorite reluctant werewolf dandy, the return of a certain quietly efficient Beta, and a very unexpected gift.
Oh please, please, please tell me this is going to be about Professor Lyall & Biffy, it would really make my day if it is!!
I'm hoping we might get a Lord Akeldama story in this series too!
Read
December 29, 2017Didn't understand a word of what's going on. And it's too bad, since the The Sumage Solution-series is pretty close to being one of my favourite reads this year.
But yeah, I'm not gonna read a whole series to figure out a novella...
To make it absolutely clear: I made it 4 or 5 pages of the sample and then threw in the towel. When I tried reading it, it was tagged as a stand-alone, but I did not understand what the hell was going on. And for me -personally- it was NOT a stand-alone, and I'm not gonna read a whole series I am not interested in to understand this one.
But yeah, I'm not gonna read a whole series to figure out a novella...
To make it absolutely clear: I made it 4 or 5 pages of the sample and then threw in the towel. When I tried reading it, it was tagged as a stand-alone, but I did not understand what the hell was going on. And for me -personally- it was NOT a stand-alone, and I'm not gonna read a whole series I am not interested in to understand this one.
November 8, 2017
Biffy x Lyall are reunited once more!
I was very much excited about this one, I loved Biffy and Lyall together in the Parasol Protectorate books. Even though they weren't together for long, I was shipping them instantly. They just made the perfect couple. <3
The book features several plots. From babies left on the doorstep to Biffy trying to get the pack together (and his worries about it) to them having to settle in a new place (our pack has finally moved away from the centre of London). There was never a dull moment in this book, every page brought something fun, exciting, or lovely.
I loved seeing Biffy as an Alpha, all the while being as fabulous as ever (though really dude, purple isn't really the right colour for curtains). He was so worried, but I just knew he didn't have to worry. He may not be the same kind of Alpha as a lot of others, he is much softer, kinder, and more fabulous. But he is an Alpha, and throughout the book I did see him make some amazing decisions, take the lead, care for his pack, try his best to have everyone settle in right, and much more.
The whole baby on the doorstep was hilarious, though it got even more exciting near the end of it all. I definitely didn't expect THAT to be the reason of the babies.
We also see a little bit of Lord Akeldama. It was definitely a bit sad when Biffy and he had to separate. Not only due to the move, but also because he has to move on from lost and old loves.
The only thing I found a bit sad was the lack of romance/sexy times. I was really looking forward to lots and lots of romance between between these two. On the one hand I get why these two haven't seen each other for 2 decades + some odd months. What they had before Lyall had to move was short, and both of them wasn't sure it was truly something. Not to mention the fact that Lyall wasn't around when Biffy got to be Alpha (I can just imagine how much it hurt him that his lover wasn't around during that time).
But even with all that you could see that they loved each other, you could see that they were eager to be together again. I was just shouting at my kindle (and yes, I will also buy the paperback) for them to kiss already. Arghhh, these two!
I loved how the author started with THAT scene from the Parasol Protectorate (gave us a much more intimate view on the situation) and then went 20 years in the future.
All in all, this is one novella that I loved, and I wouldn't mind more Lyall and Biffy, though this time with all the romance and sexy times! <3 I would highly recommend it.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I was very much excited about this one, I loved Biffy and Lyall together in the Parasol Protectorate books. Even though they weren't together for long, I was shipping them instantly. They just made the perfect couple. <3
The book features several plots. From babies left on the doorstep to Biffy trying to get the pack together (and his worries about it) to them having to settle in a new place (our pack has finally moved away from the centre of London). There was never a dull moment in this book, every page brought something fun, exciting, or lovely.
I loved seeing Biffy as an Alpha, all the while being as fabulous as ever (though really dude, purple isn't really the right colour for curtains). He was so worried, but I just knew he didn't have to worry. He may not be the same kind of Alpha as a lot of others, he is much softer, kinder, and more fabulous. But he is an Alpha, and throughout the book I did see him make some amazing decisions, take the lead, care for his pack, try his best to have everyone settle in right, and much more.
The whole baby on the doorstep was hilarious, though it got even more exciting near the end of it all. I definitely didn't expect THAT to be the reason of the babies.
We also see a little bit of Lord Akeldama. It was definitely a bit sad when Biffy and he had to separate. Not only due to the move, but also because he has to move on from lost and old loves.
The only thing I found a bit sad was the lack of romance/sexy times. I was really looking forward to lots and lots of romance between between these two. On the one hand I get why these two haven't seen each other for 2 decades + some odd months. What they had before Lyall had to move was short, and both of them wasn't sure it was truly something. Not to mention the fact that Lyall wasn't around when Biffy got to be Alpha (I can just imagine how much it hurt him that his lover wasn't around during that time).
But even with all that you could see that they loved each other, you could see that they were eager to be together again. I was just shouting at my kindle (and yes, I will also buy the paperback) for them to kiss already. Arghhh, these two!
I loved how the author started with THAT scene from the Parasol Protectorate (gave us a much more intimate view on the situation) and then went 20 years in the future.
All in all, this is one novella that I loved, and I wouldn't mind more Lyall and Biffy, though this time with all the romance and sexy times! <3 I would highly recommend it.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
May 24, 2018
Fans of Gail Carriger’s Parasol Protectorate series have been waiting for one story to play out for a very long time. With the glimpses given in The Custard Protocol, we only grew more desperate. Finally, the second of the novellas in the Supernatural Society series have given us what we have all be waiting for. You guessed it – we finally got our Lyall and Biffy story.
I doubt I need to explain how excited I’ve been waiting to grab this one. I know I’m not alone in shipping the werewolves. In fact, I’m sure if you asked any Gail Carriger fan what story they were most excited for they would respond with Romancing the Werewolf. There’s been so much build up for this one, it feels as though we’ve been waiting an eternity. To finally dive into it – well, it made me a very happy fan indeed.
Although I did enjoy this one, I will say I was a little bit let down by it. It was enjoyable, I cannot deny that, but I had been expecting a wee bit more from it. I think I’d hyped it up so much in my mind that I was never going to be as happy with it as I was expecting. If I’m being brutally honest, this one wasn’t quite a full four-star rating. However, it was so close I had to round it up – as I said, I think part of my disappointment was through building it up so much in my mind.
One thing you should know before going into this is that despite being labelled as a standalone novel, you will not understand a lot of the references unless you’re up to date with the Parasol Protectorate universe. You can dive into this one if you like, but I thought I would warn you – there are plenty of references to other events, things are built upon what we have already come to know throughout the books in the universe.
The story itself, has a solid start and end point, though. It gives us an entertaining story, one that sucks you into the universe and gives you an entertaining tale. I feel as though the romance took a backseat, though. I went in expecting a story of feels for Lyall and Biffy, yet their romance seemed to take a backseat to the mystery that occurred throughout. I cannot deny that it was an interesting little mystery, but I had been wanting more of the romance between the duo.
Overall, this was an enjoyable little tale to give fans more of the characters they love, but it wasn’t quite all I had been hoping for. Nevertheless, it had all you can expect from Gail Carriger – great characters, a bit of romance, steampunk London, a unique insight into the supernatural, and plenty of humour.
I doubt I need to explain how excited I’ve been waiting to grab this one. I know I’m not alone in shipping the werewolves. In fact, I’m sure if you asked any Gail Carriger fan what story they were most excited for they would respond with Romancing the Werewolf. There’s been so much build up for this one, it feels as though we’ve been waiting an eternity. To finally dive into it – well, it made me a very happy fan indeed.
Although I did enjoy this one, I will say I was a little bit let down by it. It was enjoyable, I cannot deny that, but I had been expecting a wee bit more from it. I think I’d hyped it up so much in my mind that I was never going to be as happy with it as I was expecting. If I’m being brutally honest, this one wasn’t quite a full four-star rating. However, it was so close I had to round it up – as I said, I think part of my disappointment was through building it up so much in my mind.
One thing you should know before going into this is that despite being labelled as a standalone novel, you will not understand a lot of the references unless you’re up to date with the Parasol Protectorate universe. You can dive into this one if you like, but I thought I would warn you – there are plenty of references to other events, things are built upon what we have already come to know throughout the books in the universe.
The story itself, has a solid start and end point, though. It gives us an entertaining story, one that sucks you into the universe and gives you an entertaining tale. I feel as though the romance took a backseat, though. I went in expecting a story of feels for Lyall and Biffy, yet their romance seemed to take a backseat to the mystery that occurred throughout. I cannot deny that it was an interesting little mystery, but I had been wanting more of the romance between the duo.
Overall, this was an enjoyable little tale to give fans more of the characters they love, but it wasn’t quite all I had been hoping for. Nevertheless, it had all you can expect from Gail Carriger – great characters, a bit of romance, steampunk London, a unique insight into the supernatural, and plenty of humour.
November 13, 2017
I first discovered Gail Carriger in early 2010. I loved her Parasol Protectorate series so much for a number of reasons, but mostly because of how well she developed her world.
Since completing the series she has gone on to write a number of other novels/series and novellas in the same world.
When the second installment of the Supernatural Society came out, I was happy to review it and see what characters would find a HEA.
So let’s get the most obvious issue out of the way. This is gay romance. People who have issue with that should probably not read this book. Bt whether you are straight, gay, bi, or any of the other letters in the LGBTQ abbreviation, there is something to enjoy in this short story.
Carriger always does such a classy job at writing gay or lesbian romances. They are never tacky or written for ‘shock’ value. They are always well constructed, thought out, tender, and believable. There is clear feeling behind the romance and I love how the genuine-ness of the romance shines through the social stigma.
As a married straight woman you might wonder what I get out of a LGBTQ romance, and the answer is love is love. I love romances and how they come about between intriguing characters and that’s exactly what Carriger provides in her romances…..timeless romantic troupes.
So here we are, now that that is out of the way, let’s talk about the other aspects of this novella. Normally I am not a huge short story fan but I love Carriger’s world as I mentioned before. It seemed like ages since I met Professor Lyall so I was thrilled to see him return in this story. In the previous books where we were first introduced to him, I wanted to know more about his character. There was something about him that bordered on mysterious so I was excited to get to know his character in a more intimate way.
Biffy has been a regular character in many of the books set in Carriger’s world. Aside from his name, I liked Biffy as a character. It is a little hard for me to take someone serious with a name like Biffy but somehow Carriger makes it work.
Having seen so much of Biffy in other books, I was excited to read his romance. As I mentioned the attraction and romance between Lyall and Biffy was tender and full of burning romantic moments. Just what you would expect from a werewolf romance.
If you haven’t discovered Gail Carriger, you are missing out. Because all of her books are based in the same world, you can pick them up most anywhere but I found the most joy reading the main novels first and enjoying the novellas second but if you are at all interested in a quick, charming romance, than this one is one to consider!
See my full review here
Since completing the series she has gone on to write a number of other novels/series and novellas in the same world.
When the second installment of the Supernatural Society came out, I was happy to review it and see what characters would find a HEA.
So let’s get the most obvious issue out of the way. This is gay romance. People who have issue with that should probably not read this book. Bt whether you are straight, gay, bi, or any of the other letters in the LGBTQ abbreviation, there is something to enjoy in this short story.
Carriger always does such a classy job at writing gay or lesbian romances. They are never tacky or written for ‘shock’ value. They are always well constructed, thought out, tender, and believable. There is clear feeling behind the romance and I love how the genuine-ness of the romance shines through the social stigma.
As a married straight woman you might wonder what I get out of a LGBTQ romance, and the answer is love is love. I love romances and how they come about between intriguing characters and that’s exactly what Carriger provides in her romances…..timeless romantic troupes.
So here we are, now that that is out of the way, let’s talk about the other aspects of this novella. Normally I am not a huge short story fan but I love Carriger’s world as I mentioned before. It seemed like ages since I met Professor Lyall so I was thrilled to see him return in this story. In the previous books where we were first introduced to him, I wanted to know more about his character. There was something about him that bordered on mysterious so I was excited to get to know his character in a more intimate way.
Biffy has been a regular character in many of the books set in Carriger’s world. Aside from his name, I liked Biffy as a character. It is a little hard for me to take someone serious with a name like Biffy but somehow Carriger makes it work.
Having seen so much of Biffy in other books, I was excited to read his romance. As I mentioned the attraction and romance between Lyall and Biffy was tender and full of burning romantic moments. Just what you would expect from a werewolf romance.
If you haven’t discovered Gail Carriger, you are missing out. Because all of her books are based in the same world, you can pick them up most anywhere but I found the most joy reading the main novels first and enjoying the novellas second but if you are at all interested in a quick, charming romance, than this one is one to consider!
See my full review here
May 27, 2019
3.5 Stars
I loved the whimsical, airy & feel to the story - it never seemed to take itself too seriously. And in some ways neither did Biffy. He is NOT your typical Alpha werewolf; very much the dandy and not concerned with others' opinions on his style of dress or manner. He enjoys luxury and the finer things, and is above reproach in comportment. But don't you dare underestimate him, his strength, or his ability to lead and to fight. (Reminds me of Philippe on the TV show Versailles.)
But I do have to say that the author's note at the beginning set this whole story up to be much more...well, erotic than it turned out to be. I somehow thought the warning to readers who are probably used to her earlier books, who have read the MF stories, that there would be a sexual relationship between two male characters meant, you know, there'd be gay sex. What we got was VERY tame compared to the scenes she gives us (under her pseudonym) in The Sumage Solution. Color me disappointed.
Also, I know that this is supposed be able to stand on it's own...but I don't think that's the case. I have no experience with any of the previous books set in this world and so I was quite a bit lost. The picture painted was still enjoyable, and I could parse the tale out some from the conversations and references to past actions...but I do believe that reading at least the installment before this one would have been beneficial. Given that all those are MF (I think) that's not likely to happen, honestly. So yeah, I missed out on what probably would have made this story richer.
But the narrator did an EXCELLENT job with the accents, and really gave Biffy personality. I didn't like the hollow sound effect for internal thoughts or asides...although, it DID make it easier to tell when the comments weren't part of dialogue, which I can definitely appreciate. I think I need to hear more books performed with this distinction to get used to it maybe? (I hate when a character thinks something, but doesn't actually say it and it's read like it's part of their conversation...way confusing.)
So, I'll probably not read any more under the "Gail" pen name, but I'll totally read the rest of the "G.L." San Andreas Shifters books...
I loved the whimsical, airy & feel to the story - it never seemed to take itself too seriously. And in some ways neither did Biffy. He is NOT your typical Alpha werewolf; very much the dandy and not concerned with others' opinions on his style of dress or manner. He enjoys luxury and the finer things, and is above reproach in comportment. But don't you dare underestimate him, his strength, or his ability to lead and to fight. (Reminds me of Philippe on the TV show Versailles.)
But I do have to say that the author's note at the beginning set this whole story up to be much more...well, erotic than it turned out to be. I somehow thought the warning to readers who are probably used to her earlier books, who have read the MF stories, that there would be a sexual relationship between two male characters meant, you know, there'd be gay sex. What we got was VERY tame compared to the scenes she gives us (under her pseudonym) in The Sumage Solution. Color me disappointed.
Also, I know that this is supposed be able to stand on it's own...but I don't think that's the case. I have no experience with any of the previous books set in this world and so I was quite a bit lost. The picture painted was still enjoyable, and I could parse the tale out some from the conversations and references to past actions...but I do believe that reading at least the installment before this one would have been beneficial. Given that all those are MF (I think) that's not likely to happen, honestly. So yeah, I missed out on what probably would have made this story richer.
But the narrator did an EXCELLENT job with the accents, and really gave Biffy personality. I didn't like the hollow sound effect for internal thoughts or asides...although, it DID make it easier to tell when the comments weren't part of dialogue, which I can definitely appreciate. I think I need to hear more books performed with this distinction to get used to it maybe? (I hate when a character thinks something, but doesn't actually say it and it's read like it's part of their conversation...way confusing.)
So, I'll probably not read any more under the "Gail" pen name, but I'll totally read the rest of the "G.L." San Andreas Shifters books...
December 31, 2017
LYALL + BIFFY
4EVA
4EVA
November 11, 2018
I’ve been waiting for Biffy and Lyall to have their reunion story for years now. And they finally got theirs and I’m so glad *sob*
Also, I can’t wait to get more stories from the rest of the pack. They’re so adorable, funny, and quirky. I mean werewolf in top hats, doesn’t get more random than that. LOL. 4 stars
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorites scenes?
Also, I can’t wait to get more stories from the rest of the pack. They’re so adorable, funny, and quirky. I mean werewolf in top hats, doesn’t get more random than that. LOL. 4 stars
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorites scenes?
August 28, 2019
I have always loved Biffy as if he were my younger brother. And I've swooned over Professor Lyall. Seeing the two of them interact as Alpha and Beta of the most prestigious werewolf pack in England is one of the most gratifying short reads of my year in books.
While this set of novellas does read well in any order as the stories are self-contained, any prior knowledge of the Parasol Protectorate or Custard Protocol series makes it even easier to fall into Ms. Carriger's vast Parasolverse.
I look forward to many more of these short tales. What is happening to Kingair post-Lyall???
While this set of novellas does read well in any order as the stories are self-contained, any prior knowledge of the Parasol Protectorate or Custard Protocol series makes it even easier to fall into Ms. Carriger's vast Parasolverse.
I look forward to many more of these short tales. What is happening to Kingair post-Lyall???
February 5, 2022
The best werewolves from the Parasol Protectorate series are deeply in gay love with each other and get to be happy together forever because they bone. I'm completely serious. You love to see it. A+++++
November 13, 2017
3.5-4 stars
Originally posted at For What It's Worth on 11/6/17: http://www.fwiwreviews.net/2017/11/mo...
Source: e-arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I’ve been enjoying all of Carriger’s Parasolverse spin-off novellas. Even though I haven’t finished the original series yet – I’m still able to follow along and read these all as stand-alone's. Romancing the Werewolf has an excellent prologue that recaps Biffy and Lyall’s, brief, but intense affair before they were separated by werewolf politics for 20 years.
Professor Lyall, a Beta werewolf, (Biffy’s Beta) was sent to serve as beta for another pack and has just been released from his obligation. He returns immediately to Biffy who is now an Alpha werewolf struggling to lead his pack.
I loved reading about an Alpha who doesn’t look or feel like the traditional alpha. It’s such an unexpected and fun twist. Biffy, who was formally a vampire drone and wanted to be turned vampire, was turned (unwillingly) into a werewolf instead and is now the leader of the London Pack. His pack doesn’t quite trust that he even wants to be there and he struggles with things as simple as clothing & decor (which is very important to him!) to fear of failing his pack, as well as the longing in his heart for his missing beta. Not to mention that orphaned babies keep getting dropped off at the pack's front door as Christmas approaches.
When Lyall returns, their intimacy and longing is palpable, even though the physical reunion takes more time (& is mostly fade to black) it works.
It was also nice to see Biffy from Lyall’s pov. While Biffy feels like he’s lost all control of his pack, Lyall can see his quiet strength and command over his wolves. And their affection for him. They just needed their Beta to make it all click into place.
Romancing a Werewolf suffered from a few lags – more like it got caught up in things that weren’t as interesting as the pack but, as always, is a delightful addition to Carriger’s world. I especially enjoyed reading about the intricacies of being a werewolf from Biffy’s pov - like when he is around his former vampire lover - Lord Akledama smells more like an enemy now. There are a few fun cameos and mentions of popular characters from the series. And watching a group of grown werewolves try to take care of orphaned babies was pretty funny. Plus there’s a tiny bit of Christmas cheer so add this to your holiday reading list.
Originally posted at For What It's Worth on 11/6/17: http://www.fwiwreviews.net/2017/11/mo...
Source: e-arc provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
I’ve been enjoying all of Carriger’s Parasolverse spin-off novellas. Even though I haven’t finished the original series yet – I’m still able to follow along and read these all as stand-alone's. Romancing the Werewolf has an excellent prologue that recaps Biffy and Lyall’s, brief, but intense affair before they were separated by werewolf politics for 20 years.
Professor Lyall, a Beta werewolf, (Biffy’s Beta) was sent to serve as beta for another pack and has just been released from his obligation. He returns immediately to Biffy who is now an Alpha werewolf struggling to lead his pack.
I loved reading about an Alpha who doesn’t look or feel like the traditional alpha. It’s such an unexpected and fun twist. Biffy, who was formally a vampire drone and wanted to be turned vampire, was turned (unwillingly) into a werewolf instead and is now the leader of the London Pack. His pack doesn’t quite trust that he even wants to be there and he struggles with things as simple as clothing & decor (which is very important to him!) to fear of failing his pack, as well as the longing in his heart for his missing beta. Not to mention that orphaned babies keep getting dropped off at the pack's front door as Christmas approaches.
When Lyall returns, their intimacy and longing is palpable, even though the physical reunion takes more time (& is mostly fade to black) it works.
It was also nice to see Biffy from Lyall’s pov. While Biffy feels like he’s lost all control of his pack, Lyall can see his quiet strength and command over his wolves. And their affection for him. They just needed their Beta to make it all click into place.
Romancing a Werewolf suffered from a few lags – more like it got caught up in things that weren’t as interesting as the pack but, as always, is a delightful addition to Carriger’s world. I especially enjoyed reading about the intricacies of being a werewolf from Biffy’s pov - like when he is around his former vampire lover - Lord Akledama smells more like an enemy now. There are a few fun cameos and mentions of popular characters from the series. And watching a group of grown werewolves try to take care of orphaned babies was pretty funny. Plus there’s a tiny bit of Christmas cheer so add this to your holiday reading list.
November 8, 2017
This is a classic Gail Carriger, so it's a little silly and OTT but a nice, fun read. I smiled and I giggled a little and generally had a good time.
What it's not is a real stand-alone novel. Technically it is because it is not about the main characters from the "Parasol Protectorate" series but this book here is set in that universe and basically a spin-off. The author has spent idk how many books to create this really rather complex world and there are countless allusions and terms that are simply not explained because the world-building has taken place in other books. So I heartily recommend it to people who are familiar with this universe but less so to people who only know Gail Carriger from The Sumage Solution. I'm not sure that will work.
Otherwise it's a highly entertaining book. I could have done with a little more communication but then again, there wouldn't have been a book ;-).
What it's not is a real stand-alone novel. Technically it is because it is not about the main characters from the "Parasol Protectorate" series but this book here is set in that universe and basically a spin-off. The author has spent idk how many books to create this really rather complex world and there are countless allusions and terms that are simply not explained because the world-building has taken place in other books. So I heartily recommend it to people who are familiar with this universe but less so to people who only know Gail Carriger from The Sumage Solution. I'm not sure that will work.
Otherwise it's a highly entertaining book. I could have done with a little more communication but then again, there wouldn't have been a book ;-).
November 5, 2017
This was everything I wanted it to be and more. I have desperately been waiting for my favourite werewolves to get the ending they deserve and this novella made me so very, very happy. I might have shed a tear.
April 14, 2018
We finally see what happens to Biffy and Lyall! In Timeless, we see the beginning of a relationship between the two werewolves, interrupted when Professor Lyall is sent to the Kingair pack to be their Beta for 20 years. Fortunately, Romancing the Werewolf prefaces the main body of the story with a replay of that encounter. 20 years has made for many changes in Biffy's life: he is no longer a newly made werewolf; he is now the London pack's Alpha and has just moved them into their new home in Greenwich, only the second move in the pack's history. Carriger shows us the awkwardness that results between two people who were separated before their relationship was established, as they try to find a balance between what was, what is, and what may be. Although I felt this book lacked Carriger's usual humor, I was excited and satisfied to finally read about Biffy and Lyall!
November 6, 2017
This was the incredibly sweet reunion of two Parasol Protectorate characters that I desperately wanted a happy ending for. The other plot threads were amusing and interesting. They taught us more of the world's werewolf culture and inner workings. I also appreciate that the characters are not beholden to tropes and stereotypes, but get to be unique individuals who don't quite fall into any perfect little box.
August 30, 2020
Werewolf meet steampunk and I was hooked. I really enjoyed this novella and will be looking for more stories like this. I found Biffy, young alpha and Layall, older beta, a fabulous couple. The werewolf pack were also a lot of fun, almost like watching a bunch of puppies!
November 6, 2017
Vraiment très très chouette. Le 5 étoiles est peut être un peu exagéré mais j'étais tellement contente que deux de mes personnages chouchous aient une belle conclusion à leur histoire que je suis prête à être indulgente. Romancing the werewolf; c'est donc l'histoire des retrouvailles entre Biffy et Lyall après 20 ans de séparation. Entre temps, Lyall est allé se perdre en Egypte, a changé de look mais c'est surtout Biffy qui a changé et qui doit désormais assumer de nouvelles fonctions. J'avoue que c'est surtout cette partie là que j'ai trouvée excessivement bien traitée. Biffy est à la base un personnage pour lequel j'avais une certaine sympathie mais sans plus. Un peu trop jeune et futile à mon goût peut être. Gail Carriger lui offre ici une véritable évolution vers son statut de "reluctant alpha", thématique qu'elle avait déjà abordé avec succès dans sa nouvelle Marine Biology. Les questionnements de Biffy, ses doutes, ses difficultés à imposer un nouveau style sont très bien traités et l'accès à ses réflexions fait que le personnage gagne réellement en profondeur dans cette nouvelle. C'est notamment visible dans le passage chez Lord Akeldama, où il assume enfin son statut face à son ancien maître et amant.
Le développement de son histoire avec Lyall se fait tout en douceur, comme c'était déjà le cas dans la saga initiale du Protectorat de l'Ombrelle. On peut reprocher le fait que s'ils prenaient le temps de se parler deux secondes, ils s'éviteraient bien des tourments mais bon, on va pas chipoter. Sinon pour le reste la toile de fond est anecdotique mais se laisse lire sans déplaisir et reste assez fun.
Romancing the werewolf semble tourner une page définitive sur le Protectorat de l'Ombrelle et l'ère Maccon, sans doute pour laisser désormais toute la place à Prudence (y a encore du boulot à faire de ce côté là par contre !). J'espère cependant qu'on aura l'occasion de suivre les aventures de la nouvelle meute de Londres dans les années à venir. En plus de Biffy et Lyall, il y a suffisamment de futurs héros potentiels (l'invisible Riehart et pourquoi pas le tout petit nouveau venu Robin) dans cette nouvelle pour laisser présager que ce sera peut être le cas.
Le développement de son histoire avec Lyall se fait tout en douceur, comme c'était déjà le cas dans la saga initiale du Protectorat de l'Ombrelle. On peut reprocher le fait que s'ils prenaient le temps de se parler deux secondes, ils s'éviteraient bien des tourments mais bon, on va pas chipoter. Sinon pour le reste la toile de fond est anecdotique mais se laisse lire sans déplaisir et reste assez fun.
Romancing the werewolf semble tourner une page définitive sur le Protectorat de l'Ombrelle et l'ère Maccon, sans doute pour laisser désormais toute la place à Prudence (y a encore du boulot à faire de ce côté là par contre !). J'espère cependant qu'on aura l'occasion de suivre les aventures de la nouvelle meute de Londres dans les années à venir. En plus de Biffy et Lyall, il y a suffisamment de futurs héros potentiels (l'invisible Riehart et pourquoi pas le tout petit nouveau venu Robin) dans cette nouvelle pour laisser présager que ce sera peut être le cas.
June 30, 2019
I'm a fan of this spinoff series
November 6, 2017
SO GOOD!
First: if you haven't read her Parasol Protectorate series, then do it! It's so good, and this story centers around things that have happened in that series.
I was a little worried. I have waited 5 years for their reunion, and it was so beautiful. Honestly, Biffy and Lyall are one of my all time favorite couples in literature. Carriger's writing style is so witty, and well thought out. I've read so many of her books throughout the last 7 years that her fantasy world feels like home.
If I have any complaints it's that it could be longer, and the "he can't still be into me after 20yrs" trope. Honestly I'm biased though, I love these two so much from the PP series, that they could have stared into each others eyes for half the book and I'd still fangirl.
Thank you for this, and I hope to see these werewolf gentlemen again soon.
First: if you haven't read her Parasol Protectorate series, then do it! It's so good, and this story centers around things that have happened in that series.
I was a little worried. I have waited 5 years for their reunion, and it was so beautiful. Honestly, Biffy and Lyall are one of my all time favorite couples in literature. Carriger's writing style is so witty, and well thought out. I've read so many of her books throughout the last 7 years that her fantasy world feels like home.
If I have any complaints it's that it could be longer, and the "he can't still be into me after 20yrs" trope. Honestly I'm biased though, I love these two so much from the PP series, that they could have stared into each others eyes for half the book and I'd still fangirl.
Thank you for this, and I hope to see these werewolf gentlemen again soon.
November 3, 2021
4.5 stars. Yes of course I love Biffy and Lyall, and the pack, and the story, and the humor and etiquette and style and touching moments and DAMMIT CHANNING STOP SHOWING LITTLE NICE MOMENTS YOU HAVE A REPUTATION.
But as much as all those things are glorious and heartwarming and perfect by themselves, the single most charming part of this book is that grown-ass humans, vampires, and werewolves are brought utterly to their knees by kittens and infants.
But as much as all those things are glorious and heartwarming and perfect by themselves, the single most charming part of this book is that grown-ass humans, vampires, and werewolves are brought utterly to their knees by kittens and infants.
November 5, 2017
finished too soon
I'll have to read it again tomorrow
I'll have to read it again tomorrow
Read
April 1, 2019Everything I wanted!
March 30, 2023
Love it
November 9, 2022
I have to give this 3 stars since I finished it, but the writing was nothing to speak of, the protagonists and thus the narrative left class snobbery completely unquestioned,* and the clunky exposition irritated me throughout. The audiobook narrator was nothing special, either. I think I'd have DNF'd if the midterm elections weren't making me unfit to listen to anything sensible.
Credit, though, to the plot, and I do wish Carriger had more skillfully integrated her worldbuilding into the story, because several elements were unusual as far as I can tell from other shifter romances I've read: "alpha madness" and (if I understood this correctly) the idea that people become vampires or wolves because they have some soul left over after they die. But although this is nominally a standalone, it seems to rely heavily on knowledge of the author's other books, which as far as I can make out from reading a couple of descriptions picked at random are set in the same universe.
Unfortunately nothing about this book inclined me to go on to any of the author's others.
*I'm working-class by origin and the more I think about this the madder I get. Like, it's apparently supposed to be part of Biffy's charm that he's so obsessed with the correct clothing, and not only for himself: he looks down on others if they're not dressed according to his standards. Please. Give me a straight-up asshole MC any day over a precious jerk like this.
Credit, though, to the plot, and I do wish Carriger had more skillfully integrated her worldbuilding into the story, because several elements were unusual as far as I can tell from other shifter romances I've read: "alpha madness" and (if I understood this correctly) the idea that people become vampires or wolves because they have some soul left over after they die. But although this is nominally a standalone, it seems to rely heavily on knowledge of the author's other books, which as far as I can make out from reading a couple of descriptions picked at random are set in the same universe.
Unfortunately nothing about this book inclined me to go on to any of the author's others.
*I'm working-class by origin and the more I think about this the madder I get. Like, it's apparently supposed to be part of Biffy's charm that he's so obsessed with the correct clothing, and not only for himself: he looks down on others if they're not dressed according to his standards. Please. Give me a straight-up asshole MC any day over a precious jerk like this.
November 8, 2025
3.5
I finally got a chance to read this one, thank you, Libby!
I forgot how much I loved this world--and now I want to return to it. I never did end up reading the sequel series to the Parasol Protectorate, even though I loved it so much! I guess now's the time haha
I know this was just a novella-esque short story, but I think Biffy and Lyall deserve a full novel! I want more! And I wanted a more satisfying solution to the whole babies conundrum lol.
I finally got a chance to read this one, thank you, Libby!
I forgot how much I loved this world--and now I want to return to it. I never did end up reading the sequel series to the Parasol Protectorate, even though I loved it so much! I guess now's the time haha
I know this was just a novella-esque short story, but I think Biffy and Lyall deserve a full novel! I want more! And I wanted a more satisfying solution to the whole babies conundrum lol.
November 24, 2017
Sweet and funny
January 5, 2019
Yet another ridiculously charming book by Gail Carriger. An utter joy.
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