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Soon Enough: A Thin Places Novel
Dan MacLean is about to discover what happens when Death herself takes a personal interest in keeping you alive.
Across Scotland, mysterious deaths are piling up. In the cobbled wynds of Edinburgh, a woman with storm-dark eyes keeps appearing on Dan’s ghost tours. He thought he was just a struggling comedian faking the macabre for tourists - but when ancient fae courts stir from their slumber, and a predator begins the hunt for a key, his life unravels. The worst part? That key might be Dan himself.
Now, armed with sarcasm, a centuries-old trickster, and a colleague who brews terrible tea, Dan must navigate a world where folklore bleeds into reality. But fairy stories don’t always have happy endings - and the Bodach Glas, Death’s herald, is watching.
Blending sharp wit, Scottish folklore, and the uncanny atmosphere of Edinburgh, Soon Enough is a contemporary urban fantasy about thin places, restless fae, and the ordinary people caught in between. For readers who enjoy the modern mythic edge of Ben Aaronovitch and Neil Gaiman, where thin places are real and survival is never guaranteed.
Across Scotland, mysterious deaths are piling up. In the cobbled wynds of Edinburgh, a woman with storm-dark eyes keeps appearing on Dan’s ghost tours. He thought he was just a struggling comedian faking the macabre for tourists - but when ancient fae courts stir from their slumber, and a predator begins the hunt for a key, his life unravels. The worst part? That key might be Dan himself.
Now, armed with sarcasm, a centuries-old trickster, and a colleague who brews terrible tea, Dan must navigate a world where folklore bleeds into reality. But fairy stories don’t always have happy endings - and the Bodach Glas, Death’s herald, is watching.
Blending sharp wit, Scottish folklore, and the uncanny atmosphere of Edinburgh, Soon Enough is a contemporary urban fantasy about thin places, restless fae, and the ordinary people caught in between. For readers who enjoy the modern mythic edge of Ben Aaronovitch and Neil Gaiman, where thin places are real and survival is never guaranteed.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2025
2 people are currently reading
2 people want to read
About the author
Magnus Watt
3 books1 followerI’m a storyteller originally from the Scottish Highlands. After leaving the Highlands I spent twenty years in Edinburgh before I settled in Middlesbrough with my wife and our two young daughters. During the day, I work in an office. At night, I perform stand-up comedy under the name Kenny, which is actually my first name. Magnus is my middle name. I chose to write under it for a few reasons, though none are especially exciting. Maybe I’ll share the story one day.
I studied film and media at university, so I often write like I’m watching a movie – short scenes, constant movement, and a strong sense of visual rhythm. I’ve always felt creative, but after a couple of decades cooped up in offices, I started doing stand-up comedy to let some of that energy out. That cracked something open, and suddenly I found myself diving into even more creative projects.
I’m fascinated by the places where the strange meets the everyday, where ancient mysteries quietly echo through modern life, and where humour and grief often sit side by side. I’m drawn to stubborn settings, flawed characters, and dialogue that feels raw, messy, and real.
My debut novel, Soon Enough, was written in the scattered moments between work, bedtime stories, and the unpredictable rhythm of family life. I’m now expanding that world with more books, exploring the tapestry I’ve started and following the story wherever it wants to go.
I studied film and media at university, so I often write like I’m watching a movie – short scenes, constant movement, and a strong sense of visual rhythm. I’ve always felt creative, but after a couple of decades cooped up in offices, I started doing stand-up comedy to let some of that energy out. That cracked something open, and suddenly I found myself diving into even more creative projects.
I’m fascinated by the places where the strange meets the everyday, where ancient mysteries quietly echo through modern life, and where humour and grief often sit side by side. I’m drawn to stubborn settings, flawed characters, and dialogue that feels raw, messy, and real.
My debut novel, Soon Enough, was written in the scattered moments between work, bedtime stories, and the unpredictable rhythm of family life. I’m now expanding that world with more books, exploring the tapestry I’ve started and following the story wherever it wants to go.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
October 13, 2025
Dan is a ghost tour guide and stand-up comedian by night, a fancy-fountain salesman by day. He's not doing too well at any of these. When weird things start happening around him, the only people he can turn to are his colleague Lisa and his mischievous boss and friend Brodie. He soon finds himself at the centre of a supernatural battle that might just destroy the world unless they manage to save it.
I found it difficult to decide whether to give this three stars or four. In the end I went with four because the book is at times uneven, at others quite good, and to my knowledge it's a debut novel. It already gets increasingly better over the course of this one book, so there's definitely a lot of potential.
What I liked about it: The supernatural creatures from Scottish and a bit of Irish mythology were fun and interesting, something a bit different from the usual fantasy fare. This world of the 'Thin Places' (the title of the series) is nicely developed and quite enjoyable, as is the depiction of the various real Scottish places. History and present day mingle, which I also enjoyed, though it might have worked a bit better for someone who is better acquainted with Scottish history. From a certain point, the characters are on a road trip though Scotland, and I particularly enjoyed that part of it.
What I didn't like so much: A lot of the humour, especially at the beginning, wasn't really my cup of tea (which might be a matter of personal taste). And for some time, the author tried too hard when it comes to the language, be it the humour or writing in a poetic manner. That wasn't bad as such, but just too much at first. This evened out about half-way through the book, though. With regard to the story, not all of it made sense to me, like the why of the deaths at the beginning, suspenseful as those were, and at least one central part of it went a bit far from what the original Scottish mythology seems to be. (I don't want to spoiler this, but it was one of the supernatural beings that turns out to be central to the story.) None of this makes this a bad book, just an early one by a talented author who might have profited from the editing one of the big publishers might have provided.
All in all, this was an interesting read. I think this book is worth a try for people who like modern fantasy with a more unusual mythological background rooted in Scotland. It will be interesting to see, how future books by the author turn out.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
I found it difficult to decide whether to give this three stars or four. In the end I went with four because the book is at times uneven, at others quite good, and to my knowledge it's a debut novel. It already gets increasingly better over the course of this one book, so there's definitely a lot of potential.
What I liked about it: The supernatural creatures from Scottish and a bit of Irish mythology were fun and interesting, something a bit different from the usual fantasy fare. This world of the 'Thin Places' (the title of the series) is nicely developed and quite enjoyable, as is the depiction of the various real Scottish places. History and present day mingle, which I also enjoyed, though it might have worked a bit better for someone who is better acquainted with Scottish history. From a certain point, the characters are on a road trip though Scotland, and I particularly enjoyed that part of it.
What I didn't like so much: A lot of the humour, especially at the beginning, wasn't really my cup of tea (which might be a matter of personal taste). And for some time, the author tried too hard when it comes to the language, be it the humour or writing in a poetic manner. That wasn't bad as such, but just too much at first. This evened out about half-way through the book, though. With regard to the story, not all of it made sense to me, like the why of the deaths at the beginning, suspenseful as those were, and at least one central part of it went a bit far from what the original Scottish mythology seems to be. (I don't want to spoiler this, but it was one of the supernatural beings that turns out to be central to the story.) None of this makes this a bad book, just an early one by a talented author who might have profited from the editing one of the big publishers might have provided.
All in all, this was an interesting read. I think this book is worth a try for people who like modern fantasy with a more unusual mythological background rooted in Scotland. It will be interesting to see, how future books by the author turn out.
I was given an ARC for an honest review.
December 3, 2025
I do love a good urban fantasy. That being said, I did struggle I bit with this story. I wish the glossary of terms was at the beginning of the book and not at the end. I had to keep looking up the meaning of some of the fae terms since I’m American and unfamiliar with the details of Scottish lore. It didn’t take away my enjoyment of the story at all, just a little more work to understand all the paranormal aspects and characters. Watt spins a good story about the fae and their involvement in the human world and how Dan, the main character is at the center of everything.
*received a complimentary copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
*received a complimentary copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only*
October 22, 2025
Well I signed up for an ARC early release for my review. Truthfully, I hope if I ever do this again, I will get a book that I would enjoy. I love urban fantasy usually. This was painful to read. I signed up from a Reddit request for ARC reviewers, under UrbanFantasy, and I said I would give my honest opinion. Early reading doesn’t automatically give a 4 star review, in my opinion. After I signed up, it did say that if I had under a 3 star review it may or may not be included. Though maybe that was only from the publishing side of it, who would only want very positive reviews. So I’ll be including mine on that site and goodreads.
The constant over descriptive way it’s written was hard to follow and I just wanted to quit reading because of it. One of two per chapter would have been more than enough, but often it was one or two in a paragraph, leading to dozens per chapter.
A couple examples of this were “slumped into his swivel chair like it owed him money” and “There was no threat in their words. Just truth. Crooked truth, worn smooth from age.”. Now that was from two separate chapters, but so much of book is written this way.
The characters had no depth. I had to get through almost a third of the book to understand that this was about the Leanne Sidhe and I guess Death or a portion of death, named Mara. Honestly it was so over written it was difficult to follow where the story was going. Maybe this is a known story for that area of the country and if knowing that you’d get more drawn in. For me, maybe because I’m an American reader, it was hard to follow.
I actually like the Dan character, he was written as something the author understood. I’m guessing he had such a brain dead job at a call center, was a struggling comedian and even did ghost tours. All of that rang true and though limited character development was a decent portrayal.
Now the boss for his ghost tourism was horrendous. No depth, just a hipster quality thrown over a supernatural fae, at least I think that’s what he is, or maybe a ghost. Then there is Mara, who may be fae or death, I’m really not sure. The female love interest from work, who really needs some taste, because, if Dan is her type, she’s only like projects for boyfriends. I couldn’t understand why she’d like Dan, except he was a male in her proximity, but no great redeeming qualities.
I will admit I finally quit reading after several chapters into the second section. I just couldn’t do it any longer. I feel bad for that, as usually even a poorly written book, I can slog through and finish it. As I can read several novels per week easily, I figured this would be an easy task to read this and give a fair review. I can count the number of times I’ve quit reading a book before finishing on one hand, as this is only my third I ever quit reading.
I can honestly say I tried to finish this book, as the concept of doing an early review for a new author was exciting. I would read a few pages and usually would put it down because it wouldn’t draw me in. Then a day or two would pass and I’d try again. Finally after a few weeks, I just sat down and said I’m reading this today and going to finish it. After several hours and finally reaching the second section which started in the past with time jumps, I gave up. It just made no sense to me and the story, for me, was boring. Again, maybe this was cultural and an American reader might struggle with the story, though I’ve read other books written about cultural identities, norms and historical tales, such as fae, djinn, or other supernatural entities and found them interesting. I really don’t think that’s the case, but to be fair, thought it should be mentioned.
The entire first section could easily have been reduced to two chapters, instead of a hundred pages of the 400+ total. The overuse of the descriptive terms needs to be culled and culled severely. I got the impression that a creative writing teacher told the author he did a great example of the old Sam Spade from the detective pulp novels, and he ran with it thinking it would carry the entire book. It does not.
For the author, I’d suggest going back to the old adage, write what you know. You obviously either were a portion of Dan in your own life, or knew someone, so that you could write that part easily. Expand on that. Turn that into a fae/Sidhe story. Make Dan your focus. In Soon Enough, I would say Mara was the primary character and she had little development and wasn’t all that interesting for being a part of Death?, as I’m still uncertain exactly what she is.
I will also say I tried to be overly nice in this review, because I don’t want to destroy a new writer. I can be scathing, harsh and cutting in reviewing. I probably went above and beyond in the reverse here, but I know if it was me, I don't want to discourage a prospective writer on their first attempt. Please gods, tell me this was the first attempt.
The constant over descriptive way it’s written was hard to follow and I just wanted to quit reading because of it. One of two per chapter would have been more than enough, but often it was one or two in a paragraph, leading to dozens per chapter.
A couple examples of this were “slumped into his swivel chair like it owed him money” and “There was no threat in their words. Just truth. Crooked truth, worn smooth from age.”. Now that was from two separate chapters, but so much of book is written this way.
The characters had no depth. I had to get through almost a third of the book to understand that this was about the Leanne Sidhe and I guess Death or a portion of death, named Mara. Honestly it was so over written it was difficult to follow where the story was going. Maybe this is a known story for that area of the country and if knowing that you’d get more drawn in. For me, maybe because I’m an American reader, it was hard to follow.
I actually like the Dan character, he was written as something the author understood. I’m guessing he had such a brain dead job at a call center, was a struggling comedian and even did ghost tours. All of that rang true and though limited character development was a decent portrayal.
Now the boss for his ghost tourism was horrendous. No depth, just a hipster quality thrown over a supernatural fae, at least I think that’s what he is, or maybe a ghost. Then there is Mara, who may be fae or death, I’m really not sure. The female love interest from work, who really needs some taste, because, if Dan is her type, she’s only like projects for boyfriends. I couldn’t understand why she’d like Dan, except he was a male in her proximity, but no great redeeming qualities.
I will admit I finally quit reading after several chapters into the second section. I just couldn’t do it any longer. I feel bad for that, as usually even a poorly written book, I can slog through and finish it. As I can read several novels per week easily, I figured this would be an easy task to read this and give a fair review. I can count the number of times I’ve quit reading a book before finishing on one hand, as this is only my third I ever quit reading.
I can honestly say I tried to finish this book, as the concept of doing an early review for a new author was exciting. I would read a few pages and usually would put it down because it wouldn’t draw me in. Then a day or two would pass and I’d try again. Finally after a few weeks, I just sat down and said I’m reading this today and going to finish it. After several hours and finally reaching the second section which started in the past with time jumps, I gave up. It just made no sense to me and the story, for me, was boring. Again, maybe this was cultural and an American reader might struggle with the story, though I’ve read other books written about cultural identities, norms and historical tales, such as fae, djinn, or other supernatural entities and found them interesting. I really don’t think that’s the case, but to be fair, thought it should be mentioned.
The entire first section could easily have been reduced to two chapters, instead of a hundred pages of the 400+ total. The overuse of the descriptive terms needs to be culled and culled severely. I got the impression that a creative writing teacher told the author he did a great example of the old Sam Spade from the detective pulp novels, and he ran with it thinking it would carry the entire book. It does not.
For the author, I’d suggest going back to the old adage, write what you know. You obviously either were a portion of Dan in your own life, or knew someone, so that you could write that part easily. Expand on that. Turn that into a fae/Sidhe story. Make Dan your focus. In Soon Enough, I would say Mara was the primary character and she had little development and wasn’t all that interesting for being a part of Death?, as I’m still uncertain exactly what she is.
I will also say I tried to be overly nice in this review, because I don’t want to destroy a new writer. I can be scathing, harsh and cutting in reviewing. I probably went above and beyond in the reverse here, but I know if it was me, I don't want to discourage a prospective writer on their first attempt. Please gods, tell me this was the first attempt.
November 14, 2025
This is a strong first effort from Magnus Watt. I found his take on urban fantasy refreshing and a welcome change from many of the current tropes. While he embraces standard plot devices, including fae characters, law enforcement officers who work with the paranormal, and humans who are learning their way in the paranormal worlds, he resists the urge to club us over the head with them. He uses a “show, don’t tell” to world-building. While this requires commitment from the reader, the book is much stronger for it. He allows us to find our way in the world along with his characters. It was confusing in the beginning, but it helped me to relate to the protagonists.
He also allows the otherworldliness of his non-human characters to shine through, which enhanced the atmosphere. Watt has a lyrical, Gaelic voice, which elevates has writing and makes the book a joy to read. I was able to easily visualize the streets of Edinburgh, the highland moors, and the pubs the characters inhabit. His descriptions are evocative without being prescriptive.
I would have liked to see more character development. It was difficult to understand to motivation of some of the characters. They clearly have things in their background which drive them to act in particular ways, but those experiences are referred to in passing, if at all. Some discussion of their lives previous to the events in the book would have helped.
The pacing of the book was inconsistent. There was a lot of build up, which I enjoyed, but I felt that the denouement was too quick. It was satisfying, but anticlimactic.
A final, very minor, point. Watt includes a complete glossary of terms and Scottish slang at the end of the book. I would have liked to see it in the front of the book. I’m an American and that would have helped.
Overall, my critiques are minor and I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to seeing more from this author. I encourage fans of urban fantasy to pick it up. You will be happy you did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
He also allows the otherworldliness of his non-human characters to shine through, which enhanced the atmosphere. Watt has a lyrical, Gaelic voice, which elevates has writing and makes the book a joy to read. I was able to easily visualize the streets of Edinburgh, the highland moors, and the pubs the characters inhabit. His descriptions are evocative without being prescriptive.
I would have liked to see more character development. It was difficult to understand to motivation of some of the characters. They clearly have things in their background which drive them to act in particular ways, but those experiences are referred to in passing, if at all. Some discussion of their lives previous to the events in the book would have helped.
The pacing of the book was inconsistent. There was a lot of build up, which I enjoyed, but I felt that the denouement was too quick. It was satisfying, but anticlimactic.
A final, very minor, point. Watt includes a complete glossary of terms and Scottish slang at the end of the book. I would have liked to see it in the front of the book. I’m an American and that would have helped.
Overall, my critiques are minor and I really enjoyed this book. I look forward to seeing more from this author. I encourage fans of urban fantasy to pick it up. You will be happy you did.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
I received an ARC of this in exchange for an honest review, I have never done this before so hopefully ot is suitable.
This isn’t the kind of book I usually go for, but it really surprised me. The beginning is a bit slow, which actually works well because it lets you get to know the characters properly. By the time I hit the halfway mark, I was totally pulled in.
The writing is super atmospheric. Edinburgh and the other places feel gothicy and real. You can practically feel the rain.
If I had a couple small gripes, one would be that the folklore stuff was a little confusing at first, and there were a few scenes where the jokes kind of undercut the tension. But once you get into the rhythm, it all comes together nicely.
Overall, it’s dark, funny and surprisingly emotional.
This isn’t the kind of book I usually go for, but it really surprised me. The beginning is a bit slow, which actually works well because it lets you get to know the characters properly. By the time I hit the halfway mark, I was totally pulled in.
The writing is super atmospheric. Edinburgh and the other places feel gothicy and real. You can practically feel the rain.
If I had a couple small gripes, one would be that the folklore stuff was a little confusing at first, and there were a few scenes where the jokes kind of undercut the tension. But once you get into the rhythm, it all comes together nicely.
Overall, it’s dark, funny and surprisingly emotional.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews