What do you think?
Rate this book
D Notice #1
Discovery
The gods, witches and politicians all enjoy the daily tug-of-war for control. In a world of constant scheming and manoeuvring, their peaceful world of ruining each other’s day was truly disrupted. What if it was all just a distraction keeping everyone busy until They came back home again?
At the urging of her beloved grandmother, Cassie takes an apparently safe and humdrum job in a government office in Glasgow. However, it turns out the conspiracy theorists are right, and there’s more to the civil service than box-ticking and inscrutable acronyms. When Cassie is drawn into a plot involving alien invaders, unscrupulous billionaires and the highest levels of government, she also discovers that living in her home city are a group of semi-retired gods, witches and supernatural beings, hidden in plain sight. As Cassie’s true power becomes apparent – she can get people to do what she wants merely by suggesting it to them – she becomes a vital ally against the forces that want to rid the world of gods and humans alike.
They have only 10 days to save the human race and themselves.
At the urging of her beloved grandmother, Cassie takes an apparently safe and humdrum job in a government office in Glasgow. However, it turns out the conspiracy theorists are right, and there’s more to the civil service than box-ticking and inscrutable acronyms. When Cassie is drawn into a plot involving alien invaders, unscrupulous billionaires and the highest levels of government, she also discovers that living in her home city are a group of semi-retired gods, witches and supernatural beings, hidden in plain sight. As Cassie’s true power becomes apparent – she can get people to do what she wants merely by suggesting it to them – she becomes a vital ally against the forces that want to rid the world of gods and humans alike.
They have only 10 days to save the human race and themselves.
- GenresFantasy
280 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2025
25 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Louise McLaughlin
7 books27 followersLouise was born in the same hospital where George Orwell wrote 1984. When growing up in East Kilbride in the 80s, it was clear to see the legacy he left; there was a library on every corner and two nuclear bunkers. She went to Glasgow University and achieved a Master of Arts. She then joined the sensible corporate world of paper shuffling. For the last 25 years, her career has culminated in various promotions to the heady heights where she now tells stories for a living. She still shuffles paper, but virtually now, so that’s progress.
FREE Books:
Deviation Wandering Gods Free follow the link https://dl.bookfunnel.com/3znq1hk2fv
Darkness: Free follow the link https://dl.bookfunnel.com/9jfw8c5qdw
Follow Louise on Bluesky for updates about books, thoughts of the day and cats ... there will be posts about cats. https://bsky.app/profile/louisemclaug...
FREE Books:
Deviation Wandering Gods Free follow the link https://dl.bookfunnel.com/3znq1hk2fv
Darkness: Free follow the link https://dl.bookfunnel.com/9jfw8c5qdw
Follow Louise on Bluesky for updates about books, thoughts of the day and cats ... there will be posts about cats. https://bsky.app/profile/louisemclaug...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
August 20, 2025
Intrigues
A rare case of urban fantasy that feels alive rather than factory-made: no obligatory romance, but government offices, a witches' hotel, gods in a pub, and conspiracies that are plausible enough to sting. The prologue is gripping; the pace then drops, but the world is captivating – witty, caustic, with just the right amount of absurdity. Yes, there are so many ideas that the plot can spill out and the tone can be lame, but the combination works: it's about power, control, and how an ordinary person gets caught up in a supernatural machine.
A rare case of urban fantasy that feels alive rather than factory-made: no obligatory romance, but government offices, a witches' hotel, gods in a pub, and conspiracies that are plausible enough to sting. The prologue is gripping; the pace then drops, but the world is captivating – witty, caustic, with just the right amount of absurdity. Yes, there are so many ideas that the plot can spill out and the tone can be lame, but the combination works: it's about power, control, and how an ordinary person gets caught up in a supernatural machine.
October 2, 2025
Conspiracy Theories
McLaughlin has taken every conspiracy theory from the last 12,000 years and woven them into a great story. Well worth the read.
McLaughlin has taken every conspiracy theory from the last 12,000 years and woven them into a great story. Well worth the read.
September 25, 2025
Urban fantasy, political satire, and a good dose of humor
Discovery is a fantastic blend of urban fantasy, political satire, and a good dose of humor. It starts out feeling like a regular office story and then completely flips the script, dropping you into a world of gods, witches, and alien conspiracies hiding in plain sight in Glasgow. The main character, Cassie, is a great protagonist, relatable and quiet, but with a growing power that makes you want to keep reading. While some parts of the plot could have been a bit clearer, the witty writing and unique mix of genres make it an entertaining read.
Discovery is a fantastic blend of urban fantasy, political satire, and a good dose of humor. It starts out feeling like a regular office story and then completely flips the script, dropping you into a world of gods, witches, and alien conspiracies hiding in plain sight in Glasgow. The main character, Cassie, is a great protagonist, relatable and quiet, but with a growing power that makes you want to keep reading. While some parts of the plot could have been a bit clearer, the witty writing and unique mix of genres make it an entertaining read.
May 9, 2025
An Exhilarating Journey Through Imagination and Adventure Awaits!
Discovery is an exhilarating journey that blends science fiction and fantasy seamlessly. The imaginative world-building and dynamic characters captivated me from the start. Each twist and revelation kept me on the edge of my seat. This book is a must-read for fans looking for adventure and thought-provoking themes. I highly recommend it!
Discovery is an exhilarating journey that blends science fiction and fantasy seamlessly. The imaginative world-building and dynamic characters captivated me from the start. Each twist and revelation kept me on the edge of my seat. This book is a must-read for fans looking for adventure and thought-provoking themes. I highly recommend it!
August 18, 2025
Review of Dimensions by Louise
Dimensions is a fast-paced LitRPG adventure filled with action, humor, and strong character dynamics. The story hooks from the start, balancing tension with wit, and delivers a rewarding journey of growth and survival. A must-read for fans of portal fantasy and high-stakes adventure.
Dimensions is a fast-paced LitRPG adventure filled with action, humor, and strong character dynamics. The story hooks from the start, balancing tension with wit, and delivers a rewarding journey of growth and survival. A must-read for fans of portal fantasy and high-stakes adventure.
December 8, 2025
This was a lot of fun to read. It was also hard sometimes. Ah, the halcyon days of my youth, when the world I thought I lived in wasn't something I knew enough of to connect too closely to the fiction I read. So much of the way people behave is so real.
November 21, 2025
Conspiracy Theories Taken to a New Level
Discovery was very original and funny. The gods were not all-powerful but definitely had some power. The ways in which humans are controlled by the media and the government was an illuminating part of the plot. The Annunaki and Atlantis and a secret base in Antarctica all played a part. Witches worked to empower women. And one woman who was evolving learned how to use her new-found power. And the ending was not what I expected.
Discovery was very original and funny. The gods were not all-powerful but definitely had some power. The ways in which humans are controlled by the media and the government was an illuminating part of the plot. The Annunaki and Atlantis and a secret base in Antarctica all played a part. Witches worked to empower women. And one woman who was evolving learned how to use her new-found power. And the ending was not what I expected.
March 29, 2025
In Discovery, Cassie's new corporate job opens her eye to the fact that gods, witches, and other supernatural beings exist, she has special mind-bending powers, aliens are on their way to take over the world for a second time, and a billionaire "philanthropist" has developed a weapon that can destroy everyone who isn't him. A chaotic story that combines reality and fantasy to amusing effects.
What I enjoyed the most was the light-hearted, almost cartoonish narration. It pokes fun at capitalism, corporate mindsets, conspiracy theories, social media, and other modern elements, while the characters and plot unravel in a smooth and humorous way.
The cast driving the story is also quite funny. In order to save the world within just over a week, Cassie joins forces with witches and a bunch of rusty, forgotten gods just coasting through life among humans, fondly or bitterly remembering the olden days. The antagonists and their schemes are just as satirical, creating an amusing sequence of scenes and events.
There was room for improvement in terms of narration and plot development. For example, some descriptions needed refinement or clarification, and there were key questions left unanswered. While I don't mind open endings or subtle subplots, concepts that become important to the plot should not feel incomplete or rushed. Various moments, including the ending, seemed to lack context and depth that could have made the whole story more impactful.
Nevertheless, Discovery was an enjoyable read. The writing style was quick, easy, and clever, keeping me amused and intrigued throughout the book. Its strongest features were the characters and satirical themes, from their illustration to their evolution.
Overall, Discovery is a good choice for fans of modern fantastical comedies that combine a range of magical and real-world elements in order to discuss timely and often ridiculous issues.
Thank you to Reedsy Discovery and the author for a copy of this book. Read the original review here: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/dis...
What I enjoyed the most was the light-hearted, almost cartoonish narration. It pokes fun at capitalism, corporate mindsets, conspiracy theories, social media, and other modern elements, while the characters and plot unravel in a smooth and humorous way.
The cast driving the story is also quite funny. In order to save the world within just over a week, Cassie joins forces with witches and a bunch of rusty, forgotten gods just coasting through life among humans, fondly or bitterly remembering the olden days. The antagonists and their schemes are just as satirical, creating an amusing sequence of scenes and events.
There was room for improvement in terms of narration and plot development. For example, some descriptions needed refinement or clarification, and there were key questions left unanswered. While I don't mind open endings or subtle subplots, concepts that become important to the plot should not feel incomplete or rushed. Various moments, including the ending, seemed to lack context and depth that could have made the whole story more impactful.
Nevertheless, Discovery was an enjoyable read. The writing style was quick, easy, and clever, keeping me amused and intrigued throughout the book. Its strongest features were the characters and satirical themes, from their illustration to their evolution.
Overall, Discovery is a good choice for fans of modern fantastical comedies that combine a range of magical and real-world elements in order to discuss timely and often ridiculous issues.
Thank you to Reedsy Discovery and the author for a copy of this book. Read the original review here: https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/dis...
June 25, 2025
A Bold and Brilliant Urban Fantasy That’s Equal Parts Witty, Weird, and Wonderfully Relevant
Discovery is one of those rare urban fantasy novels that not only entertains but also challenges you, in the best way possible. From the very first page, I was drawn in by the sharp humor, the crisp dialogue, and the utterly original world Louise McLaughlin has created, a world where mythological beings, bureaucratic red tape, and shadowy conspiracies coexist in absurd yet believable harmony.
Cassie is an instantly compelling protagonist: smart, sardonic, and layered with a refreshing blend of skepticism and reluctant heroism. Her voice leaps off the page, and as she navigates an increasingly tangled web of supernatural interference and state-sanctioned nonsense, you can't help but root for her, even as the stakes rise and reality begins to blur.
What sets Discovery apart isn’t just the clever plot or genre-blending; it’s the way McLaughlin uses satire to mirror our own modern frustrations, office politics, institutional overreach, blind belief systems, and then wraps those themes in a narrative that’s deeply imaginative and wildly fun.
The pacing is tight, the writing sharp, and the wit relentless. One moment you’re laughing at a throwaway line from a goddess with an HR department, and the next you’re pondering existential questions about truth, power, and what it means to be “chosen” in a world that doesn’t care.
If you enjoy books that mix mythology with modernity, conspiracy with comedy, and action with actual insight, Discovery is an absolute must-read. It’s Douglas Adams meets Neil Gaiman, with a dash of Ben Aaronovitch.
Highly recommended for fans of urban fantasy who want more than just magic and monsters. This one lingers long after the last page.
Discovery is one of those rare urban fantasy novels that not only entertains but also challenges you, in the best way possible. From the very first page, I was drawn in by the sharp humor, the crisp dialogue, and the utterly original world Louise McLaughlin has created, a world where mythological beings, bureaucratic red tape, and shadowy conspiracies coexist in absurd yet believable harmony.
Cassie is an instantly compelling protagonist: smart, sardonic, and layered with a refreshing blend of skepticism and reluctant heroism. Her voice leaps off the page, and as she navigates an increasingly tangled web of supernatural interference and state-sanctioned nonsense, you can't help but root for her, even as the stakes rise and reality begins to blur.
What sets Discovery apart isn’t just the clever plot or genre-blending; it’s the way McLaughlin uses satire to mirror our own modern frustrations, office politics, institutional overreach, blind belief systems, and then wraps those themes in a narrative that’s deeply imaginative and wildly fun.
The pacing is tight, the writing sharp, and the wit relentless. One moment you’re laughing at a throwaway line from a goddess with an HR department, and the next you’re pondering existential questions about truth, power, and what it means to be “chosen” in a world that doesn’t care.
If you enjoy books that mix mythology with modernity, conspiracy with comedy, and action with actual insight, Discovery is an absolute must-read. It’s Douglas Adams meets Neil Gaiman, with a dash of Ben Aaronovitch.
Highly recommended for fans of urban fantasy who want more than just magic and monsters. This one lingers long after the last page.
June 28, 2025
This is one of those books that immediately made me sit up and think, “Why haven’t I read anything like this before?” Discovery is sharp, sly, and packed with original ideas that explode off the page. Louise McLaughlin writes with a confident voice and a deeply creative mind every chapter adds new layers to this already rich universe of divine politics, government secrets, and alien threats.
Cassie is a revelation of a protagonist. Watching her transition from a seemingly ordinary desk worker to a key player in an apocalyptic game of cosmic chess was both believable and thrilling. Her curiosity, moral compass, and quiet strength are what kept me hooked through all the chaos. That, and the absolutely brilliant supporting cast of gods and witches who are equal parts hilarious and terrifying.
This book is more than just entertainment, it’s a clever reflection of our own bureaucratic and political nonsense, cast through the lens of fantasy and science fiction. It manages to be biting without being bitter, funny without being flippant, and magical without losing sight of the very human heart of its story.
If you're looking for a truly unique urban fantasy that respects your intelligence and rewards your imagination, look no further. Discovery is a gem.
Cassie is a revelation of a protagonist. Watching her transition from a seemingly ordinary desk worker to a key player in an apocalyptic game of cosmic chess was both believable and thrilling. Her curiosity, moral compass, and quiet strength are what kept me hooked through all the chaos. That, and the absolutely brilliant supporting cast of gods and witches who are equal parts hilarious and terrifying.
This book is more than just entertainment, it’s a clever reflection of our own bureaucratic and political nonsense, cast through the lens of fantasy and science fiction. It manages to be biting without being bitter, funny without being flippant, and magical without losing sight of the very human heart of its story.
If you're looking for a truly unique urban fantasy that respects your intelligence and rewards your imagination, look no further. Discovery is a gem.
July 17, 2025
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 So smart. So funny. So original.
Wow Discovery completely took me by surprise in the best way. I went in expecting a fun urban fantasy and ended up with something way more layered, clever, and wildly entertaining. Louise McLaughlin has such a sharp, witty voice I was hooked from page one.
Cassie is a relatable, no-nonsense kind of heroine, and watching her get pulled into a world of gods, witches, aliens, and government secrets was an absolute blast. I loved how the book balanced humor with real depth, and how the magical and political chaos somehow felt... weirdly believable?
There’s something Douglas Adams-ish about the tone, with a dash of Neil Gaiman and a very distinct voice that’s all Louise. It's funny, smart, and totally unpredictable. Also, that whole surreal government vibe? Spot on.
This book deserves more attention seriously. If you like your fantasy with a side of satire, mystery, and myth, give this one a shot. Can’t wait to see what the author writes next.
Wow Discovery completely took me by surprise in the best way. I went in expecting a fun urban fantasy and ended up with something way more layered, clever, and wildly entertaining. Louise McLaughlin has such a sharp, witty voice I was hooked from page one.
Cassie is a relatable, no-nonsense kind of heroine, and watching her get pulled into a world of gods, witches, aliens, and government secrets was an absolute blast. I loved how the book balanced humor with real depth, and how the magical and political chaos somehow felt... weirdly believable?
There’s something Douglas Adams-ish about the tone, with a dash of Neil Gaiman and a very distinct voice that’s all Louise. It's funny, smart, and totally unpredictable. Also, that whole surreal government vibe? Spot on.
This book deserves more attention seriously. If you like your fantasy with a side of satire, mystery, and myth, give this one a shot. Can’t wait to see what the author writes next.
July 25, 2025
Wildly Imaginative and Full of Sharp Humor
This book was such a clever and unexpected ride. It blends urban fantasy, satire, and political intrigue in a way that feels both chaotic and strangely grounded. Cassie is a wonderfully relatable lead who stumbles into a world of gods, witches, civil servants, and aliens without losing her dry wit or sense of self. The Glasgow setting adds charm and grit, and the writing is witty with a strong undercurrent of truth beneath the absurdity.
There were moments where the plot felt a bit overloaded and some ideas could have used more breathing room. But honestly, that is part of the appeal—it is overflowing with creativity and refuses to be boxed into one genre. I appreciated how the book made me laugh while still tackling deeper themes about control, power, and the systems that shape us.
If you enjoy your fantasy with brains and bite, this one is definitely worth picking up. I will be keeping an eye out for what comes next.
This book was such a clever and unexpected ride. It blends urban fantasy, satire, and political intrigue in a way that feels both chaotic and strangely grounded. Cassie is a wonderfully relatable lead who stumbles into a world of gods, witches, civil servants, and aliens without losing her dry wit or sense of self. The Glasgow setting adds charm and grit, and the writing is witty with a strong undercurrent of truth beneath the absurdity.
There were moments where the plot felt a bit overloaded and some ideas could have used more breathing room. But honestly, that is part of the appeal—it is overflowing with creativity and refuses to be boxed into one genre. I appreciated how the book made me laugh while still tackling deeper themes about control, power, and the systems that shape us.
If you enjoy your fantasy with brains and bite, this one is definitely worth picking up. I will be keeping an eye out for what comes next.
November 24, 2025
This is a really fun read. A bit like reading Terry Pratchett, or Douglas Adams, or Michael of Aomori (Clon:The Repeel of Planet Grimthon). I may even be hearing touches of Roger McGough.
The story/plot is quite fun. An urgent task preventing Them from invading planet Earth. But that's not what really makes it for me. It's the sarcasm, the satire, the humour, the dig at politics and commerce.
Some things I relate to like: "It all seemed to so important at the time, but it wasn't!", Or "Only five years to pension" said by somebody whose job is to prepare the entire planet for Their arrival!
Some are just silly like: Robots on strike for better working conditions.
It's a fun view of what's going on behind the scenes of our world being run by Whisperers, witches, gods and occasionally elves, told in wonderfully light-hearted, sometimes laugh-out-loud, style of writing.
The story/plot is quite fun. An urgent task preventing Them from invading planet Earth. But that's not what really makes it for me. It's the sarcasm, the satire, the humour, the dig at politics and commerce.
Some things I relate to like: "It all seemed to so important at the time, but it wasn't!", Or "Only five years to pension" said by somebody whose job is to prepare the entire planet for Their arrival!
Some are just silly like: Robots on strike for better working conditions.
It's a fun view of what's going on behind the scenes of our world being run by Whisperers, witches, gods and occasionally elves, told in wonderfully light-hearted, sometimes laugh-out-loud, style of writing.
August 11, 2025
I had to give this book a try - I love a good urban fantasy and, having been to university in Glasgow this seemed written for me. The Glasgow-specific elements are a bit light, but who cares, it's a clever, witty and really enjoyable read. The combination of conspiracy theory with fantasy elements works well and the snarky wit is delicious.
Think of the fantasy wit of Tony Moyle or Jodi Taylor and you're not far off. I hesitate to raise the great Sir Terry, but there are definite elements of Discworld's twisted-yet-perfect twisted logic.
I loved this book and will definitely be taking a close look at Louise McLaughlin's other work.
Think of the fantasy wit of Tony Moyle or Jodi Taylor and you're not far off. I hesitate to raise the great Sir Terry, but there are definite elements of Discworld's twisted-yet-perfect twisted logic.
I loved this book and will definitely be taking a close look at Louise McLaughlin's other work.
September 22, 2025
‘Discovery’ is an exciting book that combines intriguing politics, the supernatural, and a memorable, powerful female protagonist, all set over ten days in a battle to save the world. As an urban fantasy, it reminded me of how much I enjoyed the book ‘Wicked,’ with its blend of politics and magic. At times, I also found ‘Discovery’ to be witty and humorous. This well-written novel is an excellent choice for readers who love urban fantasy and are looking for something with a twist and not at all generic.
June 27, 2025
A brilliantly original urban fantasy! Discovery blends government satire, supernatural lore, and alien conspiracies with clever writing and a pitch-perfect sense of humor. Cassie is a relatable and quietly powerful heroine, thrust into a surreal world where gods, witches, and civil servants collide. Feels like Good Omens met Yes Minister in a Glasgow pub. Smart, funny, and refreshingly bold.
July 25, 2025
“Discovery” by Louise McLaughlin is an engaging mix of fantasy, intrigue, and alternative history set in a world populated with gods, witches, alien invaders, and other supernatural beings. Cassie, who is unaware of her true identity and hidden powers, is a civil service employee who stumbles upon a web of corruption that extends to high levels of the government. A fun mix of genres.
July 30, 2025
From the very first page, I was hooked. The blend of urban fantasy with conspiracy felt fresh and thrilling. Every chapter kept me guessing, and I truly connected with the main character’s journey. It’s the kind of book that makes you think “just one more chapter” until it’s 2 AM. I’d recommend this to anyone who loves mystery, magic, and a bit of rebellion.
August 29, 2025
Discovery feels genuinely fresh. Cassie takes a boring civil service job in Glasgow and trips into gods, witches, aliens, and a ten-day countdown. Her subtle “do what I suggest” power is funny and a little scary, and the satire bites without getting preachy. If you like Good Omens or Rivers of London, this will hit the spot.
July 23, 2025
The mix of surreal bureaucracy, political intrigue, and supernatural beings makes this book a thrilling, unexpected ride. With comparisons to Good Omens and American Gods, it’s perfect for fans of smart, funny, and original urban fantasy. This one will stick with you long after the last page!
August 13, 2025
Feels like the civil service got drunk and let the gods in. Conspiracies, aliens, and sarcasm...Glasgow’s never looked weirder.
August 28, 2025
Louise McLaughlin’s Discovery is an imaginative and gripping urban fantasy novel that mixes workplace satire with fantasy in a way that feels oddly believable. At its core, it’s a story about hidden power—who really has it, who thinks they do, and how little most of us understand about the systems we live under. It starts as a comic look at life in the civil service but gradually reveals a darker reality beneath the endless meetings. Overall, it's a very original read and highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews