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Parasol Protectorate #0.75
Meat Cute: The Hedgehog Incident
A Parasol Protectorate Prequel Short
From the comedic mind of New York Times bestseller Gail Carriger comes the much requested prequel short story to Soulless.
Alexia Tarabotti attends what appears to be a very dull London party, until the new werewolf Alpha turns up, is unconscionably rude to her, and sits on a hedgehog.
Don’t miss this charming novelette featuring the very first encounter between the Parasolverse’s most popular power couple, preternatural Alexia and supernatural Lord Conall Maccon.
Look out for cheeky appearances from other much beloved characters, not to mention the strategic application of a certain wicker chicken.
A Note On Chronology
Set in the spring of 1872 this story occurs just prior to events chronicled in The Parasol Protectorate series (featuring Alexia and Conall) and after those in Defy or Defend. Alexia also appears briefly in Romancing the Inventor, and Conall and England’s most scandalous wolf pack is referenced in The Finishing School series. Want more hot gruff werewolf gentlemen and practical tough ladies? Try How to Marry a Werewolf.
This is a quick read at 9000 words (about 15 printed pages) available in print only as part of Fan Service (collected Supernatural Society omnibus). It is best read if you are already familiar with Gail Carriger’s gaslight universe and comedy of manners style, as it was written specifically with her fans in mind.
From the comedic mind of New York Times bestseller Gail Carriger comes the much requested prequel short story to Soulless.
Alexia Tarabotti attends what appears to be a very dull London party, until the new werewolf Alpha turns up, is unconscionably rude to her, and sits on a hedgehog.
Don’t miss this charming novelette featuring the very first encounter between the Parasolverse’s most popular power couple, preternatural Alexia and supernatural Lord Conall Maccon.
Look out for cheeky appearances from other much beloved characters, not to mention the strategic application of a certain wicker chicken.
A Note On Chronology
Set in the spring of 1872 this story occurs just prior to events chronicled in The Parasol Protectorate series (featuring Alexia and Conall) and after those in Defy or Defend. Alexia also appears briefly in Romancing the Inventor, and Conall and England’s most scandalous wolf pack is referenced in The Finishing School series. Want more hot gruff werewolf gentlemen and practical tough ladies? Try How to Marry a Werewolf.
This is a quick read at 9000 words (about 15 printed pages) available in print only as part of Fan Service (collected Supernatural Society omnibus). It is best read if you are already familiar with Gail Carriger’s gaslight universe and comedy of manners style, as it was written specifically with her fans in mind.
54 pages, ebook
First published February 16, 2020
392 people are currently reading
2466 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 470 reviews
June 25, 2020
Meat Cute: The Hedgehog Incident by Gail Carriger
Prequel short book 0.75 of The Parasol Protectorate series.
Best if read as part of the series. Written specifically for fans.
Audio version narrated by Emma Newman.
A background story where Alexia meets the news Alpha werewolf.
Short and sweet.
Prequel short book 0.75 of The Parasol Protectorate series.
Best if read as part of the series. Written specifically for fans.
Audio version narrated by Emma Newman.
A background story where Alexia meets the news Alpha werewolf.
Short and sweet.
November 27, 2023
What happens when a hedgehog and a bumbling preternatural crash a werewolf fight? Meat Cute is the story of Alexia and Lord Maccon's first meeting, and it's a tremendously fun (although all-too-short) read.
If you've read the full-length books, you have a pretty good idea of what to expect from this prequel. Many of the main characters from the series make an appearance, from Professor Lyall and Mrs. Loontwill to (obviously) Alexia and Conall themselves. Carriger's trademark humor is also present, as is the overall tone and voice of the original novels.
I'm more than a little sad that I'm done with this story, as I've now, once again, finished everything in the Parasol Protectorate series. *sob* Perhaps one day we'll get another short story or two? A girl can dream, anyway.
If you've read the full-length books, you have a pretty good idea of what to expect from this prequel. Many of the main characters from the series make an appearance, from Professor Lyall and Mrs. Loontwill to (obviously) Alexia and Conall themselves. Carriger's trademark humor is also present, as is the overall tone and voice of the original novels.
I'm more than a little sad that I'm done with this story, as I've now, once again, finished everything in the Parasol Protectorate series. *sob* Perhaps one day we'll get another short story or two? A girl can dream, anyway.
February 18, 2020
Finally! The hedgehog story is revealed! For fans of the Parasol Protectorate series, the hedgehog incident has long been a source of speculation -- but now we know! This prequel novella finally sheds light on what really happened during the first meeting between Alexia Tarabotti and Connal Maccon, who are the beloved stars of the Parasol Protectorate books.
Meat Cute is everything we could have hoped for. It's funny and silly and full of the best of Carriger's witty banter, and I loved it.
A must-read for anyone who cares about the Parasol-verse!
Meat Cute is everything we could have hoped for. It's funny and silly and full of the best of Carriger's witty banter, and I loved it.
A must-read for anyone who cares about the Parasol-verse!
December 9, 2021
So cute!!
February 17, 2020
2/5 Stars
'The Hedgehog Incident' is briefly mentioned in one of the early books the Parasol Protectorate series, but you never hear any details about it- this short work fills in the blanks. It was a nice glimpse into Alexia and Connall's first meeting (and a nice nod at The Finishing School books), but it was much too short to be really satisfying- reading it left me feeling rather disappointed, sad since I adore the PP books. In my opinion, this would have been better served to have been a gift to Carriger's fans, a freebie on the author's website instead of something we purchased , because when you place a price tag on it readers have certain expectations about the depth of content, expectations that this story did not meet.
'The Hedgehog Incident' is briefly mentioned in one of the early books the Parasol Protectorate series, but you never hear any details about it- this short work fills in the blanks. It was a nice glimpse into Alexia and Connall's first meeting (and a nice nod at The Finishing School books), but it was much too short to be really satisfying- reading it left me feeling rather disappointed, sad since I adore the PP books. In my opinion, this would have been better served to have been a gift to Carriger's fans, a freebie on the author's website instead of something we purchased , because when you place a price tag on it readers have certain expectations about the depth of content, expectations that this story did not meet.
February 27, 2020
How did Lord Maccon and Alexia meet? Find out in this superadorable and hilarious novella!
We all know the stories about the Hedgehog incident, but what truly happened on that day? Who was the cause of the incident? What were the plans? I was delighted that this short story would finally come out and that I could read it!
It all starts mysterious with two characters infiltrating a party along with a hedgehog. Yep, that is a great start in my eyes. Who are these strangers? We then switch to Alexia and see how she is having the most dreadful of parties. Her mom is also not helping, she clearly cares more about her two other daughters over Alexia. Thankfully, and I was cheering, the werewolves make an entrance and I just love the conversations between Lyall, Maccon, and Alexia. Maccon really needs to learn how to be a bit more gentle and elegant and not say such things to a lady *gasp*. Then again, I think if he hadn't and if he was polite, that Alexia would never have married him. Yep. This girl isn't looking for polite chitchat or boring guys. I loved how Alexia stood her ground and wasn't afraid to say what she wanted.
Then we see a plan set in motion, one that makes sure that Alexia is in a certain place in a certain time. I loved that Alexia just went with it. I guess I would have done the same if I was in her shoes. Boring party wearing a horrific dress? If I get an offer to go outside... Then sure, let's go outside. Unchaperoned. What happens next had me in complete stitches, oh my! I don't want to spoil anything so I am just going to be as vague as possible. :P
I was cheering and squealing as mad while Maccon and Alexia had their conversation. Yes! Yes! Oh, and poor hedgehog.
The ending with the revelation who the mystery person was? OMG OMG OMGOMG I was just flailing and almost jumping up and down. How wonderful to see that person again! I am so happy that they are still doing things like this. *dances*
All in all, if you are a fan of the series then I would HIGHLY recommend this fun book to all. It is short and it makes you long for more, it is perfection.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
We all know the stories about the Hedgehog incident, but what truly happened on that day? Who was the cause of the incident? What were the plans? I was delighted that this short story would finally come out and that I could read it!
It all starts mysterious with two characters infiltrating a party along with a hedgehog. Yep, that is a great start in my eyes. Who are these strangers? We then switch to Alexia and see how she is having the most dreadful of parties. Her mom is also not helping, she clearly cares more about her two other daughters over Alexia. Thankfully, and I was cheering, the werewolves make an entrance and I just love the conversations between Lyall, Maccon, and Alexia. Maccon really needs to learn how to be a bit more gentle and elegant and not say such things to a lady *gasp*. Then again, I think if he hadn't and if he was polite, that Alexia would never have married him. Yep. This girl isn't looking for polite chitchat or boring guys. I loved how Alexia stood her ground and wasn't afraid to say what she wanted.
Then we see a plan set in motion, one that makes sure that Alexia is in a certain place in a certain time. I loved that Alexia just went with it. I guess I would have done the same if I was in her shoes. Boring party wearing a horrific dress? If I get an offer to go outside... Then sure, let's go outside. Unchaperoned. What happens next had me in complete stitches, oh my! I don't want to spoil anything so I am just going to be as vague as possible. :P
I was cheering and squealing as mad while Maccon and Alexia had their conversation. Yes! Yes! Oh, and poor hedgehog.
The ending with the revelation who the mystery person was? OMG OMG OMGOMG I was just flailing and almost jumping up and down. How wonderful to see that person again! I am so happy that they are still doing things like this. *dances*
All in all, if you are a fan of the series then I would HIGHLY recommend this fun book to all. It is short and it makes you long for more, it is perfection.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
July 14, 2021
Just as funny as the title suggests!
July 17, 2025
Rereading for Fictional Hangover's Vampire Book Club.
7- 08 -25
I got sidetracked from my Great 2024 Parasolverse Reread by rereading Miss Gail's Divinity 36 for Book Club. Then I decided I needed to reread other 2 books in the Tinkered Starsong Trilogy. Before I started reading Soulless today, I listened to this wonderful audiobook
Because I know and love the Parasol Protectorate books I reread in Chronological Order. If you're new to this world I read Soulless first and then Meat Cute. 7- 23 -24
Always a delight to revisit! 5-1-24
"Hundreds of tiny lanterns shaped like dirigibles bobbed about the gardens, lighting the paths and showcasing particularly exotic plants collected from around the globe." I want this for my garden.
Such a fun story! But you really need to have read at least Soulless to understand. Even better if you've read The Finishing School Series.
#great2022parasolversereread
After a very serious read, it's nice to revisit this charming short story. 🦔
. 5-20- 2020
YES! Audio is available. Read Fan Service but Audio is delightful. 12-29 2019
*As of 5-1-24 Audible has removed this from catalog. So, if you have it downloaded Don't Delete. It's available directly from Miss Gail and basically anyone but the evil Zon.
7- 08 -25
I got sidetracked from my Great 2024 Parasolverse Reread by rereading Miss Gail's Divinity 36 for Book Club. Then I decided I needed to reread other 2 books in the Tinkered Starsong Trilogy. Before I started reading Soulless today, I listened to this wonderful audiobook
Because I know and love the Parasol Protectorate books I reread in Chronological Order. If you're new to this world I read Soulless first and then Meat Cute. 7- 23 -24
Always a delight to revisit! 5-1-24
"Hundreds of tiny lanterns shaped like dirigibles bobbed about the gardens, lighting the paths and showcasing particularly exotic plants collected from around the globe." I want this for my garden.
Such a fun story! But you really need to have read at least Soulless to understand. Even better if you've read The Finishing School Series.
#great2022parasolversereread
After a very serious read, it's nice to revisit this charming short story. 🦔
. 5-20- 2020
YES! Audio is available. Read Fan Service but Audio is delightful. 12-29 2019
*As of 5-1-24 Audible has removed this from catalog. So, if you have it downloaded Don't Delete. It's available directly from Miss Gail and basically anyone but the evil Zon.
February 22, 2020
Lovely short story that’s both a prequel to Soulless and an epilogue of sorts to the Finishing School series. I suspect only meaningful if you’ve read and loved both of those series. But since I have, I loved this.
February 28, 2020
Always wonderful to read a story with old friends!
May 3, 2020
Not quite a “meh”, more like an “eh”.
Very quick read. I didn’t remember Maccon being quite so—Scottish. Still, I loved these books so it was nice to catch a glimpse of the characters again.
Very quick read. I didn’t remember Maccon being quite so—Scottish. Still, I loved these books so it was nice to catch a glimpse of the characters again.
May 26, 2020
Ja len, že už viem všetko o Incidente s ježkom. Môžete závidieť.
May 25, 2025
2.5
Well, while this wasn't bad, it was a bit disappointing. It's short - the kindle edition only goes to 65%, with an excerpt from a title that's been out for ages. More importantly, it has what I am 99% sure is a fairly serious continuity error - something I always find extremely irritating. So although it was nice to finally know this story, I think Ms. Carriger is capable of better.
Well, while this wasn't bad, it was a bit disappointing. It's short - the kindle edition only goes to 65%, with an excerpt from a title that's been out for ages. More importantly, it has what I am 99% sure is a fairly serious continuity error - something I always find extremely irritating. So although it was nice to finally know this story, I think Ms. Carriger is capable of better.
January 13, 2020
I was kinda hoping for a bit more scandalous scenario of sitting on the hedgehog but I did enjoy it and I'm glad to finally know what happened when they met. Also, so excited to see some of my favorite character's again.
September 13, 2020
Very short introduction to an unusual heroine. She has a strong character, will and looks and the H is taken from first sight. They have a little adventure just enough to wet my appetite for their book.
February 17, 2020
I love Gail Carriger. Every word she has ever uttered or written has tickled me no end.
This is just a tiny little prequel to Alexia Tarabotti and Lord Maccon's saga, and it was perfect! I will never get enough of Alexia.
This is just a tiny little prequel to Alexia Tarabotti and Lord Maccon's saga, and it was perfect! I will never get enough of Alexia.
June 8, 2020
4 Stars for Meat Cute: The Hedgehog Incident (audiobook) by Gail Carriger read by Emma Newman. A fun little prequel.
Read
January 11, 2021meat cute indeed! This was adorable and even though it takes place before Soulless, I recomend reading it after. Of couse I was expecting something a little more like the pince cone scene from Sound of Music instead of poor Miss Terrabotti stumbling on a warewolf brawl, but this was much better!
January 5, 2020
Finally, the "Hedgehog Incident"! Anyone who has enjoyed the journey of Alexia and Connal will love this tale of their first encounter with one another. I thoroughly loved it. I was also extremely pleased to see who was responsible for the meeting! Well done!
I own both the SE Fan Service and now the audio book narrated by Emma Newman who is a delight to listen to.
I own both the SE Fan Service and now the audio book narrated by Emma Newman who is a delight to listen to.
September 8, 2020
Meat Cute: The Hedgehog Incident is one of the most adorable novelettes I have ever read. It’s a quick read, but it has all the fun of the main series. It’s a prequel that fills in a gap in our knowledge, one that will make readers fall in love with the characters all over again.
Without a doubt, this is a must-read if you’re a fan of the series.
Without a doubt, this is a must-read if you’re a fan of the series.
March 5, 2020
Fun little story
March 28, 2022
This was so cute and hilarious! In the first book Soulless the main characters already knew each other about there was a mention of something to do with a hedgehog. We get to read the funny incident here. Alexia is as she always is very cynical but the best thing was how brazen Conall Maccon is when it comes to dealing with society. Poor professor Lyall has a hard job of being the Beta of such a unruly alpha.
Professor looked half ashamed, half exasperated. "Forgive us, Miss Tarabotti. We cannot take him any where."
"You're verra bad for my dignity, Miss Tarabotti."
What dignity? She wondered. "And you're very bad for hedgehogs, Lord Maccon."
I wish I had read that before the first book as it lays down the bases of the relationship between Conall and Alexia very well. I took me time to get into their feelings for each other in Soulless for it felt abrupt. But after reading this short story I love them more.
Professor looked half ashamed, half exasperated. "Forgive us, Miss Tarabotti. We cannot take him any where."
"You're verra bad for my dignity, Miss Tarabotti."
What dignity? She wondered. "And you're very bad for hedgehogs, Lord Maccon."
I wish I had read that before the first book as it lays down the bases of the relationship between Conall and Alexia very well. I took me time to get into their feelings for each other in Soulless for it felt abrupt. But after reading this short story I love them more.
April 24, 2021
A short prequel to the Parasol Protectorate series, where we get to see the first meeting between preternatural Alexia Tarabotti and supernatural Lord Conall Maccon. It also involves a cute hedgehog!
Considering both of their personalities I wasn't surprised that their first encounter didn't go very smooth...! It was also fun to see glimpses of some other well known characters, and I felt a bit disappointed that the story was so short. It did, however, make me want to pick up the whole series to do a re-read!
Considering both of their personalities I wasn't surprised that their first encounter didn't go very smooth...! It was also fun to see glimpses of some other well known characters, and I felt a bit disappointed that the story was so short. It did, however, make me want to pick up the whole series to do a re-read!
April 29, 2024
This is such a delightful short story! And it is so fun! It reminded me how much I miss Alexia and Lord Maccon! This is my favorite series by this author, by far (even if I enjoyed all her books I have read, but this one has a special place in my heart).
Alexia and Conall are two refreshing characters, and the hedgehog was the cutest ever! It was also sweet to see the first meeting between these two! The only complaint is that it was just toooo short! I need more!
Alexia and Conall are two refreshing characters, and the hedgehog was the cutest ever! It was also sweet to see the first meeting between these two! The only complaint is that it was just toooo short! I need more!
September 1, 2020
This is a prequel about how Alexia and Lord Maccon met. It was a quick read with interesting dynamics. It details an incident with a hedgehog that happened in a previous book that I have not read. I am interested in some of the other characters introduced in this book and what is the significance of them in this author's world.
October 29, 2020
Gail Carriger writes such interesting characters and creates vivid worlds for them to live in. This book gives the right touch of intrigue and magic that now makes want to throw my tbr list out the window and pick up the next novel! So quirky too! Right from the opening scene that involved two unlikely characters taking a stroll and two hedgies in a basket. Perfect and quick read!
February 16, 2020
My goodness, ten stars if I could. This was splendid. Such a short little story, but exactly right and it took me right back to the Parasol Protectorate world and made me long for a reread. It's funny, cosy, ridiculous, with unexpected Easter eggs and the banter between Alexia and Connall is off the charts. Gosh, what a treat, and the hedgehog was so sweet, he was definitely worth the trouble :)
Such a blessing to have a favourite author write the scenes you've always dreamed of, Gail is wonderful.
Such a blessing to have a favourite author write the scenes you've always dreamed of, Gail is wonderful.
April 2, 2020
A fun story about Alexia and Conall's first meeting. Even without the interference of the characters that frame this story (loved seeing them by the way), it's clear only Alexia and Conall could handle each other in a relationship.
February 15, 2024
Short and sweet, it’s nice to have the full story about the “hedgehog incident” that is repeatedly referenced. It’s also intriguing to learn that Alexia and Connell were sort of set up to meet. Will be curious to learn more about the reasons behind that in future books.
February 24, 2020
*** 3.50 ***
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