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The Red Cape Society #4
Bitches and Brawlers
Just when things start going well for Agent Clemeny Louvel, a bitch has to make trouble.
Since Cyril's death, an uneasy peace has existed between Alodie and Lionheart. Her brothel closed, her rank in the werewolf pecking order obliterated, and shunned by the Templars, Alodie has been living on the fringes of the dark district. Determined to get vengeance on Lionheart and Clemeny, Alodie hatches a monstrous plan. Just in time to ruin Clemeny and Edwin's first outing as a couple.
Alodie will do anything to see a new alpha rise.
Unless Clemeny can stop her first.
Badassery and steampunk unite in New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak's retelling of the classic Red Riding Hood fairy tale set in gaslamp London. Bitches and Brawlers is book 4 in the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series.
Since Cyril's death, an uneasy peace has existed between Alodie and Lionheart. Her brothel closed, her rank in the werewolf pecking order obliterated, and shunned by the Templars, Alodie has been living on the fringes of the dark district. Determined to get vengeance on Lionheart and Clemeny, Alodie hatches a monstrous plan. Just in time to ruin Clemeny and Edwin's first outing as a couple.
Alodie will do anything to see a new alpha rise.
Unless Clemeny can stop her first.
Badassery and steampunk unite in New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak's retelling of the classic Red Riding Hood fairy tale set in gaslamp London. Bitches and Brawlers is book 4 in the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2018
273 people are currently reading
598 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,706 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 21, 2025
Bitches and Brawlers is Book 4 in Melanie Karsak’s Steampunk Red Riding Hood (Red Cape Society) series. Clemeny has a little more romance and there is a twist. There are not just werewolves but also demons and vampires. Detective Clemeny Louvel uses her "moon eye" to help her sense and even predict danger. Lionheart is given more time as a supporting character. There's a pretty nice balance of introspection and action in Karsak's writing. Enjoyable and engaging steampunk fantasy. Recommend to read in order to get the full story. Character driven with supernatural intrigue.
*Themes that are coming through*
Identity As a woman with a scar, seen as a disfigurement, and her growth embracing her whole self.
Loyalty, Duty love and relationships balanced with work and responsibilities.
Supernatural Politics Werewolf hierarchies, vendettas, revenge
*Themes that are coming through*
Identity As a woman with a scar, seen as a disfigurement, and her growth embracing her whole self.
Loyalty, Duty love and relationships balanced with work and responsibilities.
Supernatural Politics Werewolf hierarchies, vendettas, revenge
July 11, 2018
**spoilers**
Why are we rehashing a love interest that I thought was settled a couple of books ago? Terribly disappointed. I thought this book would contain the development of the relationship between Clem and Edwin. Instead she I almost pining for Lionheart? There are hints of a deeper connection between the two of them as well than what she has with Edwin... I just don’t understand why we needed to go there? She’d moved on in Peppermint and Pentacles and I was rooting for her with Edwin! This book was not what I’d hoped it would be and I’m not sure if I’ll invest any more time in this ridiculousness.
Why are we rehashing a love interest that I thought was settled a couple of books ago? Terribly disappointed. I thought this book would contain the development of the relationship between Clem and Edwin. Instead she I almost pining for Lionheart? There are hints of a deeper connection between the two of them as well than what she has with Edwin... I just don’t understand why we needed to go there? She’d moved on in Peppermint and Pentacles and I was rooting for her with Edwin! This book was not what I’d hoped it would be and I’m not sure if I’ll invest any more time in this ridiculousness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2018
This book was great! As were all the books in this series!! Such a unique retelling of Little Red Riding Hood! This was my first steampunk series that I have read, and it has me hooked!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
July 16, 2018
Careful, fragile peace was established among London were clans. But now, the treaty is threatened..
Clemeny's life has never been quiet and peaceful, but now the bitches of the past are returning. Alodie and the rest of old Cyril's clan are back in town, determined to shift the power by bringing in the 'werewolf prince'. However, Clemeny and Edwin are hot on their trails, with the help of reluctant but understanding Lionheart. Nevertheless, Alodie's plotting is not without consequences and costs on lives, and now even Clemeny's love life is in total mess.
Aside from the racing plot development and twisting, adventurous, action-packed story, I entirely enjoyed watching Clemeny struggle in the department of her love issues. Who is gonna win her heart? What she prefers? How will she decide? So far, no one knows. Everything is confusing, chaotic, and totally distracting - and I so love it. Both her choices are amazing and represent something totally different - yet I can imagine her being with both. Can't wait any longer to see how she will set up her mind!
Clemeny's life has never been quiet and peaceful, but now the bitches of the past are returning. Alodie and the rest of old Cyril's clan are back in town, determined to shift the power by bringing in the 'werewolf prince'. However, Clemeny and Edwin are hot on their trails, with the help of reluctant but understanding Lionheart. Nevertheless, Alodie's plotting is not without consequences and costs on lives, and now even Clemeny's love life is in total mess.
Aside from the racing plot development and twisting, adventurous, action-packed story, I entirely enjoyed watching Clemeny struggle in the department of her love issues. Who is gonna win her heart? What she prefers? How will she decide? So far, no one knows. Everything is confusing, chaotic, and totally distracting - and I so love it. Both her choices are amazing and represent something totally different - yet I can imagine her being with both. Can't wait any longer to see how she will set up her mind!
July 14, 2018
KICK 'EM LOW!!!
Talk about in the soup. This is one page turning, suspense filled and explosive read that just keep on keeping on. This is one series that is more of an investment than anything else. You'll find yourself reading it again and again. Yes, its that good and just gets better as it progresses. Melanie has such an incredible gift of weaving words and telling stories with such passion you can't help but fall deeply into the web of her imagination as she brings these worlds to life flawlessly and without a crease. The characters are intriguing, complex and realistic. Their personalities played off one another and are well balanced. The scenes vividly detailed it paints one interesting backdrop that brings layer after layer. A strong storyline with twists and turns that are ever changing and holds your attention until the last word. Another amazing job Melanie, thanks for sharing this remarkable read with us.
Talk about in the soup. This is one page turning, suspense filled and explosive read that just keep on keeping on. This is one series that is more of an investment than anything else. You'll find yourself reading it again and again. Yes, its that good and just gets better as it progresses. Melanie has such an incredible gift of weaving words and telling stories with such passion you can't help but fall deeply into the web of her imagination as she brings these worlds to life flawlessly and without a crease. The characters are intriguing, complex and realistic. Their personalities played off one another and are well balanced. The scenes vividly detailed it paints one interesting backdrop that brings layer after layer. A strong storyline with twists and turns that are ever changing and holds your attention until the last word. Another amazing job Melanie, thanks for sharing this remarkable read with us.
July 27, 2018
Just when things are going well with Clemeny and Edwin and London has settled down, she begins to spot members of the banished werewolf packs, too many in the company of Alodie. Worse yet, Lionheart seems to be in seclusion, rather than attending to his duties.
With the absense of Lionheart on the streets, it's up to Little Red and Agent Hunter to do the policing of the werewolf packs. Clemeny is sure that Alodie is hatching some plan. Will she be able to uncover the plot before the banished pack and Alodie do irreperable harm? Will Lionheart step up as London's Alpha?
More important, will Clemeny ever get her outing with Agent Hunter? Will she have the courage to wear the blue dress?
Things are steaming up on all fronts as Cyril's old pack and Alodie work togerther. This is quite possibly the most exciting Little Red to date! Don't miss Bitches and Brawlers!
Kindle Unlimited edition
With the absense of Lionheart on the streets, it's up to Little Red and Agent Hunter to do the policing of the werewolf packs. Clemeny is sure that Alodie is hatching some plan. Will she be able to uncover the plot before the banished pack and Alodie do irreperable harm? Will Lionheart step up as London's Alpha?
More important, will Clemeny ever get her outing with Agent Hunter? Will she have the courage to wear the blue dress?
Things are steaming up on all fronts as Cyril's old pack and Alodie work togerther. This is quite possibly the most exciting Little Red to date! Don't miss Bitches and Brawlers!
Kindle Unlimited edition
July 10, 2018
Bitches and Brawlers is another fantastic book in Melanie Karsak’s Steampunk Fairy Tales Red Riding Hood series.
Clemeny is an intriguing character, and pitting her against a shewolf intent on vengeance makes for an exciting read. I adore her new beau, Edwin, and hope for the best. But I’m also secretly rooting for Lionheart to win Clemeny over.
If you enjoy a fairy tale reimagining set in gaslamp London, I’m sure you will enjoy this book. But start the series from the beginning, with Wolves and Daggers, so that you won’t miss anything.
Clemeny is an intriguing character, and pitting her against a shewolf intent on vengeance makes for an exciting read. I adore her new beau, Edwin, and hope for the best. But I’m also secretly rooting for Lionheart to win Clemeny over.
If you enjoy a fairy tale reimagining set in gaslamp London, I’m sure you will enjoy this book. But start the series from the beginning, with Wolves and Daggers, so that you won’t miss anything.
July 11, 2018
Being an agent that protects humans from the supernatural can get messy. Little Red is mixed up in another mess of werewolves, vampires, and the odd demon. Starting to get a bigger picture of Agent Rose, so I’m looking forward to reading her story. The love triangle aspect is starting to become clearer, and I admit I prefer Edwin, in part because the “right” guy is often beaten out by the “wrong” guy due to passion.
July 13, 2018
A Little Red Riding Hood for the 21st Century
Even though this series takes place in an alternate, steampunk 19th Century, the sensibility is very 21st Century, with badass “career women” who will kick a werewolf’s butt as soon as look at him. And this is all normal in the universe of this London, which is part of the charm, along with the humor.
In fact, my only real complaint is that these books are so short!
More Clemeny, please!
Even though this series takes place in an alternate, steampunk 19th Century, the sensibility is very 21st Century, with badass “career women” who will kick a werewolf’s butt as soon as look at him. And this is all normal in the universe of this London, which is part of the charm, along with the humor.
In fact, my only real complaint is that these books are so short!
More Clemeny, please!
July 21, 2018
This fourth instalment in the steampunk Red Riding Hood series is possibly the most madcap rollercoaster of fighting, smiting and exciting scullduggery that there's been. And with a twist of romance to seal the deal, what more could you ask for? Apart from a fifth instalment of course! Can't wait until the autumn to find out what happens next...
March 19, 2019
I think this one is a little better story line.
Although all the books in this series are excellant I believe Melanie Karsak humanized all the characters a little more in this one. You can see their flaws as well as their strengths. Keep up the great work!
Although all the books in this series are excellant I believe Melanie Karsak humanized all the characters a little more in this one. You can see their flaws as well as their strengths. Keep up the great work!
September 11, 2023
Clemeny is a fierce fighter for good!
I can't say enough about this series! It is a wonderful and exciting read.
Clem maybe petite but she is not afraid to fight the beast that haunt London. But she would like to have someone to love her.
This is a great action packed book. You should read the series about Clemeny if you like adventures in your books!
This is my honest review.
I can't say enough about this series! It is a wonderful and exciting read.
Clem maybe petite but she is not afraid to fight the beast that haunt London. But she would like to have someone to love her.
This is a great action packed book. You should read the series about Clemeny if you like adventures in your books!
This is my honest review.
April 29, 2019
Exciting and mysterious
I love this series. This on almost made me cry. Poor Lionheart. I can't wait to see if Sir Richard's lead tells Clement anything about her past!
I love this series. This on almost made me cry. Poor Lionheart. I can't wait to see if Sir Richard's lead tells Clement anything about her past!
July 11, 2018
What do you get when you put a strong women like Clemeny against a she-wolf in a game of vengeance and action? My favorite story in this series! I loved this fourth story in the retelling of red riding hood.
Clemeny is is such a strong and wonderful character. This author has built her to be bold and dedicated, yet action oriented and willing to learn. I cannot get enough of her and love when she lets me into her mind. I am a lover of Lionheart and what what is best for him, which I wholeheartedly believe is Clemeny. I like Edwin, but I will always root for Lionheart.
The she-wolf is the ultimate enemy and was just a wonder to read. I loved the plot of this story and the interaction of Clemeny and the wolf. The action was amazing and the lines were so memorable.
This story is filled with action and life. I love this story because when you start reading it, you become so involved in the world that you feel like you are there and are part of the action. I cannot get enough of this series and this author and I highly recommend them to everyone.
This can be read as a standalone but is ultimately more enjoyable when you have read the series from the beginning. I received an ARC and am leaving an honest review.
Clemeny is is such a strong and wonderful character. This author has built her to be bold and dedicated, yet action oriented and willing to learn. I cannot get enough of her and love when she lets me into her mind. I am a lover of Lionheart and what what is best for him, which I wholeheartedly believe is Clemeny. I like Edwin, but I will always root for Lionheart.
The she-wolf is the ultimate enemy and was just a wonder to read. I loved the plot of this story and the interaction of Clemeny and the wolf. The action was amazing and the lines were so memorable.
This story is filled with action and life. I love this story because when you start reading it, you become so involved in the world that you feel like you are there and are part of the action. I cannot get enough of this series and this author and I highly recommend them to everyone.
This can be read as a standalone but is ultimately more enjoyable when you have read the series from the beginning. I received an ARC and am leaving an honest review.
January 27, 2022
Love triangles are annoying, but drawn out love triangles are the worst. Clemeny sets her sights on one man and then just as easily becomes confused about the second man. It's annoying, she had pretty much decided on Agent Hunter in the last book and has forgotten all about Lionheart. Then when we reach this book, Clemeny has decided that she is conflicted about the men in her life. Ugh, it's annoying.
Regardless, there has been very little character growth and it makes these short books drag on and on. I did really like Agent Rose and would really like to know more about her and the vampires. Could we have a book about her instead of Clemeny? Overall 2.5 stars out of 5, better than the last book but only by a little bit.
Regardless, there has been very little character growth and it makes these short books drag on and on. I did really like Agent Rose and would really like to know more about her and the vampires. Could we have a book about her instead of Clemeny? Overall 2.5 stars out of 5, better than the last book but only by a little bit.
December 19, 2023
I have mixed feelings about this installment but still enjoyed reading it.
I like that Clem is growing more confident in herself regarding her disfigured eye. She's starting to see it as a strength that helps her do her job instead of as a weakness.
I enjoyed seeing Quinn and Jessica again. That was such a fun scene. I loved Clem’s Grand-mère and their bond. Clem’s landlady Missus Coleridge is such a hoot that I hope we see more of her in the remaining books.
The overall story continues to build upon itself and increase my curiosity and interest. However, I’m not sure how the romance aspect will play out with Clem seemingly having strong feelings for both Lionheart and Agent Hunter. There were lots of good action scenes and character development.
I like that Clem is growing more confident in herself regarding her disfigured eye. She's starting to see it as a strength that helps her do her job instead of as a weakness.
I enjoyed seeing Quinn and Jessica again. That was such a fun scene. I loved Clem’s Grand-mère and their bond. Clem’s landlady Missus Coleridge is such a hoot that I hope we see more of her in the remaining books.
The overall story continues to build upon itself and increase my curiosity and interest. However, I’m not sure how the romance aspect will play out with Clem seemingly having strong feelings for both Lionheart and Agent Hunter. There were lots of good action scenes and character development.
July 10, 2018
Things are getting edgy in gaslamp London. Seems that Alodie is stirring things up. Some of Fenton's and Cyril's old werewolf gangs are seen in town and Clemeny is off to investigate. When Clemeny figures out part of what's going on, she goes to see Lionheart for help. He is the alpha after all. There's lots of werewolf chasing, killing and even a demon that must be excorcised by Edwin. This steampunk book has great twists in the plot, really good characters along with bad guys and just enough action to not over-do it. It's a must read for fans of steampunk and/or paranormal books. I'm looking forward to the next in the series!
October 11, 2018
Wonderful reading. Adventure, just the whisper of romance, and comedy. This is a great twist on the Red Riding Hood fairy tale. “Red” is a girl who works for a secret government agency that hunts down dangerous werewolves, vampires, ghosts, and other fantastic creatures of myth. The government agency uses the red capes as a sort of uniform. Characters are well developed. Red is funny and smart and brave with an unknown background that makes for an interesting mystery. I’ve read all the books in the series except the one that just came out (Howls and Hallows). I highly recommend them all.
July 5, 2018
These are always so quick to read and I want more when I'm done. I love reading about Clemeny and what she's up to next. So my heart wants her to be with Lionheart and I hope they end up together in the end but I am okay too if she ends up with Edwin. I would highly suggest reading the first 3 books before you read this one. This is a great series and I look forward to the next book.
July 11, 2018
Another Little Red story. I really like Clemeny Louvel. We are getting closer to finding out who she really is and who she will end up with. I like Edwin Hunter but I really like Lionheart. Clemeny and Lionheart deal with Alodie in this story. Mystery and death abound in this book. A historical, steampunk fantasy.
September 21, 2018
Fairytales let your imagination fly
If you don't know Clemeny you are missing out. I suggest you start with book one and watch her grow. She is pretty, intelligent, street smart and has an exciting job. But now her dilemma is ... to werewolf or not to werewolf. Thank you Ms. Karsak.
If you don't know Clemeny you are missing out. I suggest you start with book one and watch her grow. She is pretty, intelligent, street smart and has an exciting job. But now her dilemma is ... to werewolf or not to werewolf. Thank you Ms. Karsak.
July 28, 2018
As always another couldn’t put it down story. An intriguing way of writing about Red Riding Hood. Not usually my type of genre, but have learned to enjoy. Ready for the next one in the series or any story by this awesome writer.
August 27, 2018
I very rarely give a novella more than 4 stars but km enjoying Melanie Karsak's steampunk fairytales a lot and I think this is the best one yet. Love triangles! Demons! Werewolves! A great way to spend a dreary Sunday! 4.5 stars
November 6, 2018
A page turner!
I really enjoyed the development of Clemeny's story in this latest steampunk red riding hood. She has lots of decisions to make, and staying clean seems out of the question with this one!
I really enjoyed the development of Clemeny's story in this latest steampunk red riding hood. She has lots of decisions to make, and staying clean seems out of the question with this one!
February 20, 2019
Badass Bitch
Come is a real Badass ! Can not wait to see what she does next.😮😮😮 I know which but I would like to see her end up with on to the next book to see what she will do now! Loved this book!!!!
Come is a real Badass ! Can not wait to see what she does next.😮😮😮 I know which but I would like to see her end up with on to the next book to see what she will do now! Loved this book!!!!
August 4, 2018
I’m hooked now! Can’t wait for the next one!
August 22, 2018
Really loving this series. Well written, adventurous, and fun. Lots of action scenes.
November 13, 2018
Another great read
With every new book about little red, my need to know more keeps growing. Who is her family, and who will she give her heart to. Must read series.
With every new book about little red, my need to know more keeps growing. Who is her family, and who will she give her heart to. Must read series.
December 18, 2020
Series Info/Source: This is the fourth book in the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series. There are six books in this series and I borrowed this one through Kindle Unlimited.
Story (4/5): Clemeny is finally getting a bit of peace and she’s enjoying her outings with Edwin Hunter (her boss and love interest). However, things get a bit crazy when Clemeny finds out Alodie (the werewolf involved in the first book) may be collaborating with demons to bring another were into power to confront Lionheart. Now what was supposed to be a peaceful trip to the museum ends up in an all out battle. This is a fun and quick-paced story that builds on a lot of things that happened in the first couple books of the series. I love that Hunter’s demon-hunting skills also come into play. This is a fun contained story but also pushes along the main storyline.
Characters (4/5): Clemeny is growing on me, she is finally finding some balance and peace...sort of. There was a lot less of her worrying about her appearance and hunting lustfully after men...and a lot more of her just enjoying the people in her life. Hunter is a good balance for her, however I am curious to see where things go with Lionheart as well since he is a fascinating character. Even more intriguing are the additional parts of Clemeny’s history that are revealed and the fact that she may not be quite as human as she thought.
Setting (4/5): This book takes place in a Victorian Steampunk London and I continue to love this setting and enjoy how seamlessly the steampunk elements are woven into historical London. It’s a fun setting and well described.
Writing Style (4/5): I feel like as of the third book in this series Karsak has hit a good writing stride. Some of the earlier books felt a bit unfocused but in this book you get a very well done, contained mystery, as well as progress in the broader story. I thought it was very well done. Karsak does an awesome job at keeping the pace fast and writes amazing action scenes as well. Obviously I keep reading her books, so I must enjoy her writing style!
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was a very well done continuation to the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series. I enjoyed the pace of the story, the mystery, the characters, the action and how well things tied back to earlier books in the series. This was a fun read and I plan on continuing with the series. I would recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a steampunk series full of quick, fun, fast-paced reads.
Story (4/5): Clemeny is finally getting a bit of peace and she’s enjoying her outings with Edwin Hunter (her boss and love interest). However, things get a bit crazy when Clemeny finds out Alodie (the werewolf involved in the first book) may be collaborating with demons to bring another were into power to confront Lionheart. Now what was supposed to be a peaceful trip to the museum ends up in an all out battle. This is a fun and quick-paced story that builds on a lot of things that happened in the first couple books of the series. I love that Hunter’s demon-hunting skills also come into play. This is a fun contained story but also pushes along the main storyline.
Characters (4/5): Clemeny is growing on me, she is finally finding some balance and peace...sort of. There was a lot less of her worrying about her appearance and hunting lustfully after men...and a lot more of her just enjoying the people in her life. Hunter is a good balance for her, however I am curious to see where things go with Lionheart as well since he is a fascinating character. Even more intriguing are the additional parts of Clemeny’s history that are revealed and the fact that she may not be quite as human as she thought.
Setting (4/5): This book takes place in a Victorian Steampunk London and I continue to love this setting and enjoy how seamlessly the steampunk elements are woven into historical London. It’s a fun setting and well described.
Writing Style (4/5): I feel like as of the third book in this series Karsak has hit a good writing stride. Some of the earlier books felt a bit unfocused but in this book you get a very well done, contained mystery, as well as progress in the broader story. I thought it was very well done. Karsak does an awesome job at keeping the pace fast and writes amazing action scenes as well. Obviously I keep reading her books, so I must enjoy her writing style!
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was a very well done continuation to the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series. I enjoyed the pace of the story, the mystery, the characters, the action and how well things tied back to earlier books in the series. This was a fun read and I plan on continuing with the series. I would recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a steampunk series full of quick, fun, fast-paced reads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews