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The Curious Case of the Werewolf That Wasn’tGail Carriger

Historical fantasy short story

The Curious Case of the Werewolf That Wasn’t

by Gail Carriger

Book 1 of the Parasolverse Short Stories series

Years before Alexia Tarabotti's adventures, her formidable father Alessandro travels through Egypt with his unflappable valet, Floote, on an assignment for the Templars. An encounter involving tourists, a supposed werewolf, and unusual antiquities turns their mission into a supernatural puzzle. Mummies, a preserved cat, and Alessandro's ruthless competence offer early glimpses of mysteries that echo through the later Parasolverse. Short and sly, this prequel suits established fans who enjoy Victorian espionage, Egyptian settings, morally ambiguous operatives, supernatural misdirection, and compact origin stories that illuminate a consequential figure who remains largely offstage in the main novels.

Paired for this story

Desert Lime Cooler + Hearthside Spiced Mead

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At a glance

Know what you're getting into

Spice1 of 5
Suspense3 of 5
Creepy2 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

Paranormal danger, violence, and death

Alcohol-Free Pour

Desert Lime Cooler

Mint, honey, and lime bring a refreshing counterpoint to Alessandro's Egyptian assignment and unusual antiquities.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Combine the noncarbonated ingredients in a glass or shaker and stir or shake until mixed. Pour over ice, top with any carbonated ingredient, and stir gently.
  2. Garnish: Use a matching citrus wheel, berry, or herb from the recipe when available.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Hearthside Spiced Mead

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

For adult readers, honey and spice bring a warm, layered counterpoint to Alessandro's Egyptian assignment and unusual supernatural antiquities.

How to mix it

  1. Makes one serving.
  2. Combine the mead, cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat until gently steaming—do not simmer or boil. Keep over very low heat for 5–10 minutes, tasting occasionally for your preferred spice strength. Strain into a heatproof mug and sweeten with honey if desired.
  3. Garnish: Orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
  4. Glassware: Heatproof mug.

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