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Gobbelino London, PI #3
Gobbelino London & A Complication of Unicorns
“Unicorns never were that bright,” I said. “That’s why they’re the only kind to stab their own entire species into extinction.”
“Not quite the entire species,” Callum said.
When a man from Callum’s past turns up at our door claiming to have lost both the last herd of unicorns in England and his sister, I knew it should be a hard pass. The past has teeth.
But old debts plus a damsel in distress means Callum just can’t say no. G&C London, Private Investigators, are plunging deep into the magical underbelly of Leeds, and we’re going to have our work cut out for us.
Never mind the criminal dynasties, cross-dressing trolls, trained attack lizards, and philosophical donkeys – we need to find the sister and get out before the Watch get involved.
Why? Well, they’ve killed me three times already.
Yeah. I preferred extinct unicorns.
This is the third book in the Gobbelino London, PI urban fantasy series, centred around the adventures of a mercenary feline PI and his human sidekick. It contains snarky cats and other gods, many bad jokes and terrible puns, plus a large serving of mythological and real creatures behaving badly. It will appeal to anyone who likes their fantasy funny, modern, and filled with friendship rather than romance - and also to those who suspect their cat may be living a great and secret life when they're not looking.
A Complication of Unicorns contains some violence, particularly toward those not treating cats with due respect, but none of it is graphic. It contains no sex and only mild language. It does, however, contain blasphemy.
“Not quite the entire species,” Callum said.
When a man from Callum’s past turns up at our door claiming to have lost both the last herd of unicorns in England and his sister, I knew it should be a hard pass. The past has teeth.
But old debts plus a damsel in distress means Callum just can’t say no. G&C London, Private Investigators, are plunging deep into the magical underbelly of Leeds, and we’re going to have our work cut out for us.
Never mind the criminal dynasties, cross-dressing trolls, trained attack lizards, and philosophical donkeys – we need to find the sister and get out before the Watch get involved.
Why? Well, they’ve killed me three times already.
Yeah. I preferred extinct unicorns.
This is the third book in the Gobbelino London, PI urban fantasy series, centred around the adventures of a mercenary feline PI and his human sidekick. It contains snarky cats and other gods, many bad jokes and terrible puns, plus a large serving of mythological and real creatures behaving badly. It will appeal to anyone who likes their fantasy funny, modern, and filled with friendship rather than romance - and also to those who suspect their cat may be living a great and secret life when they're not looking.
A Complication of Unicorns contains some violence, particularly toward those not treating cats with due respect, but none of it is graphic. It contains no sex and only mild language. It does, however, contain blasphemy.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 21, 2020
114 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Kim M. Watt
42 books335 followersHello lovely people!
I’m Kim (as you may have guessed, given that you're on the author page for Kim). I write funny fantasies and off-beat cosy (or cozy, depending where you're from) mysteries set in a world not so dissimilar to ours - and in fact sharing many locations.
And in this not-dissimilar world you'll find mystery-solving dragons with a strong affection for barbecues and scones, and snarky feline PIs with human sidekicks. You'll run across baking-obsessed reapers running petting cafes stocked with baby ghouls, Apocalyptic riders on Vespas, and women of a certain age Getting Things Done. There may even be the odd born-again troll redefining troll-ness for the modern age about the place.
You'll find myth and reality clashing in small and spectacular ways, and discover the healing magic of tea and a really good lemon drizzle cake.
But, most of all, there will be friendship, and loyalty, and people of all species looking out for one another. Because these, above all things, are magic.
And you can find me rambling on about all this (and more) over on my website, or join me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for bad puns and many, many cat memes. Many.
Come join me!
I’m Kim (as you may have guessed, given that you're on the author page for Kim). I write funny fantasies and off-beat cosy (or cozy, depending where you're from) mysteries set in a world not so dissimilar to ours - and in fact sharing many locations.
And in this not-dissimilar world you'll find mystery-solving dragons with a strong affection for barbecues and scones, and snarky feline PIs with human sidekicks. You'll run across baking-obsessed reapers running petting cafes stocked with baby ghouls, Apocalyptic riders on Vespas, and women of a certain age Getting Things Done. There may even be the odd born-again troll redefining troll-ness for the modern age about the place.
You'll find myth and reality clashing in small and spectacular ways, and discover the healing magic of tea and a really good lemon drizzle cake.
But, most of all, there will be friendship, and loyalty, and people of all species looking out for one another. Because these, above all things, are magic.
And you can find me rambling on about all this (and more) over on my website, or join me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for bad puns and many, many cat memes. Many.
Come join me!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
October 14, 2024
“Oh, gods-dammed purple sprouting broccoli with hairballs!”Oh my shrimp, so many new, kidnap-worthy creatures in this installment! Enraged, foul-mouthed imps! Platoons of homicidal pixies in army camouflage! Fainting goats! Pathologically bad-tempered unicorns! New-Age, bike-riding, vegetarian trolls with a taste for pink and a better moral compass than traveling monks! Philosophizing donkeys! Packs of serial killer rodents with anarchist tendencies! Murderous murders of crows! Crab-beleaguered attack lizards! Packs of Russian dolls! Silent pigs who suffer from donkey-induced existential crises! Somewhat scrumptious this is indeed! Okay, so the author failed to throw a bunch of dancing crabs into the mix, but that can be easily arranged.
😬
👋 To be continued and stuff.
P.S. This has to be the best snarky feline narration ever. Because yes, snarky feline narrations are a thing. FYI and stuff.
· Book 1: Gobbelino London & a Scourge of Pleasantries ★★★★
· Book 2: Gobbelino London & a Contagion of Zombies ★★★★
· Book 4: Gobbelino London & a Melee of Mages ★★★★
· Book 5: Gobbelino London & a Worry of Weres ★★★★
February 28, 2023
Pockets are strange and complicated places, where even the Watch tread lightly. But for the Folk and the humans who slip through the cracks of the world, they're places of safety. The glamour pushes away outsiders, and they have no need to hide the reality of themselves. They can uncover their gills and their fur, their extra eyes and wings and limbs and spines. Judgement tends to be withheld unless someone gets eaten on an overenthusiastic night out or dismembered in a quarrel over a sports team. I mean, there's got to be limits.
This is a series I really enjoy, and every time I read a new book from it, it becomes my favourite so far. No exception here - whether it's unicorns or fainting goats, trolls living their best lives or secrets from the past doing their best to make it to the light, I had a ball of a time with the whole book.
The sense of humour in these books has always been good, but it's this book where I feel it's meshed the best with the core mystery - it feels just a little more tight, a little bit less goofy, and the book overall feels more comfortable with the serious beats.
I had such a great time with this book, and I'm really coming to love this series overall.
This is a series I really enjoy, and every time I read a new book from it, it becomes my favourite so far. No exception here - whether it's unicorns or fainting goats, trolls living their best lives or secrets from the past doing their best to make it to the light, I had a ball of a time with the whole book.
The sense of humour in these books has always been good, but it's this book where I feel it's meshed the best with the core mystery - it feels just a little more tight, a little bit less goofy, and the book overall feels more comfortable with the serious beats.
I had such a great time with this book, and I'm really coming to love this series overall.
January 22, 2023
Book 3
This series just gets better with each book. New characters have been added to the mix. New-Age trolls! Philosophical donkeys named Kent! Fainting goats! I loved them all.
Callum's family history finally gets some screen time. He's so quiet about his former life, and I can't blame him. I love his relationship with Gobbelino. They always throw barbs at eachother, but they have such a strong sense of loyalty. They're a great pair. And Gobbelino's narration is priceless. I probably wouldn't be so into this series had it been from another character's point of view. His voice and outlook are both so unique.
This book is just fun all around!
This series just gets better with each book. New characters have been added to the mix. New-Age trolls! Philosophical donkeys named Kent! Fainting goats! I loved them all.
Callum's family history finally gets some screen time. He's so quiet about his former life, and I can't blame him. I love his relationship with Gobbelino. They always throw barbs at eachother, but they have such a strong sense of loyalty. They're a great pair. And Gobbelino's narration is priceless. I probably wouldn't be so into this series had it been from another character's point of view. His voice and outlook are both so unique.
This book is just fun all around!
December 29, 2023
Callum's past comes back with sharp teeth in Gobbelino London and a complication of Unicorns the third book in the Gobbelino London, PI series by Kim M. Watt. Turns out that unicorns, presumed extinct, are very much not-extinct (un-extinct?) and a former friend from Callum's past has had his herd stolen. Unable to turn down an old friend, no matter how much of a bad idea it is, Callum and Gobbs are off to see if they can track down where the herd has disappeared to.
These are not your typical story-book unicorns Callum and Gobbs are off to rescue! They are pathologically bad tempered and utterly hilarious when we finally meet them. I'm glad we also got some insight into Callum's past, his family and friends (all varying degrees of horrible), as well as being introduced to the idea of a "pocket" where magical folk can live in relative peace. Usually. Sometimes. Ok, not this time but that would be spoilers. The situation that Gobbs and Callum uncover add to the lore of the world as there is obviously something rotten going on in a larger scale than just this little area.
The author has quite a talent for chaotic and hilarious final climax scenes. I'd love to see all that action in the warehouse on the big screen.
This series is so much fun. I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of trouble Gobs and Callem get into next.
These are not your typical story-book unicorns Callum and Gobbs are off to rescue! They are pathologically bad tempered and utterly hilarious when we finally meet them. I'm glad we also got some insight into Callum's past, his family and friends (all varying degrees of horrible), as well as being introduced to the idea of a "pocket" where magical folk can live in relative peace. Usually. Sometimes. Ok, not this time but that would be spoilers. The situation that Gobbs and Callum uncover add to the lore of the world as there is obviously something rotten going on in a larger scale than just this little area.
The author has quite a talent for chaotic and hilarious final climax scenes. I'd love to see all that action in the warehouse on the big screen.
This series is so much fun. I'm looking forward to seeing what kind of trouble Gobs and Callem get into next.
February 7, 2023
"The Carnival of the Animals." Except this version was written by Kim M. Watt, not Camille Saint-Saens. Does include a donkey, though. A philosophical donkey at that. Sorry, no majestic swan. Perhaps sort of an aquarium. If you don't know the music or history of Saint-Saens' composition here is a note. Saint-Saens' would not let the piece be performed until after his death. He thought it too whimsical and comical. He didn't want to ruin his reputation as a composer. His wish was kept. What does that have to do with this story? Whimsical, comical, filled with one liners, puns and misquotes. And, of course, the animals.
I can imagine that Kim M. Watt just has a blast writing these humorous tales. Characters flow over from one book to the next, but these books are basically standalone. If you want levity, Kim M. Watt is for you. Light reading in between more serious reads, perhaps.
If the cat winks, be sure to wink back.
I can imagine that Kim M. Watt just has a blast writing these humorous tales. Characters flow over from one book to the next, but these books are basically standalone. If you want levity, Kim M. Watt is for you. Light reading in between more serious reads, perhaps.
If the cat winks, be sure to wink back.
September 1, 2020
Talking snarky cat PI, new age trolls,a philosophical donkey, unicorns and a mystery from sidekick Calum's past. What more could you want? Another magical investiagation for Gobbelino and friends, and it's a whole load of fun - at least for the reader, poor Gobs doesn't seem to enjoy it very much a lot of the time...
This series gets better with every book, which probably breaks one of the laws of physics or something. When's the next one coming out?
This series gets better with every book, which probably breaks one of the laws of physics or something. When's the next one coming out?
April 28, 2021
This series just keeps getting better. I hope Ms. Watt has other adventures planned for Gobellino and Callum. I enjoy the snarky humor paired with imaginative use of fantasy tropes, but mostly Gobs' snide asides and wonderful personality, paired with Callum's deep affection and their lovely partnership.
March 9, 2025
I gave books 1 and 2 five stars already, so I'd need a 6th star for this amazing book! I hope that there will be number 4 soon!
June 30, 2022
Callum's past rears its ugly head as him and Gobs are dragged into the hunt for the last heard of unicorns who have mysteriously gone missing along with Art's sister. But Callum can't resist a damsel in distress, especially when he used to know them. However, a family of new-age trolls, anarchist rats, a murder of crows who take the term literally and a phillisophical donkey later, it becomes obvious that something is very wrong, and Art isn't telling the entire strory.
I didn't love this one as much as I did book 2, but that doesn't mean it wasn't amazing. I loved that we got to know about Callum's past in this book; letting us know more about who he used to be and the life he left behind, why he uses Gob's surname and not his own, and that the family that matters the most isn't always the one you were born into. I'm hoping that in a future book we'll learn abot Gob's past; what did he do that caused The Watch to feed him to the Void?
The Watch is a whole other story, there's something going on there, but what?
This entire series is just amazing, even the characters who are per book are so well writen with well thought out personalities. I can't get enough of Gob's and Callum, they're just great together. It seems like this series is keeping the pattern of delivering amazing stories, and I can't wait to see where the adventure takes these two next; what secrets get uncovered, dangers faced, and idioms mangled.
I didn't love this one as much as I did book 2, but that doesn't mean it wasn't amazing. I loved that we got to know about Callum's past in this book; letting us know more about who he used to be and the life he left behind, why he uses Gob's surname and not his own, and that the family that matters the most isn't always the one you were born into. I'm hoping that in a future book we'll learn abot Gob's past; what did he do that caused The Watch to feed him to the Void?
The Watch is a whole other story, there's something going on there, but what?
This entire series is just amazing, even the characters who are per book are so well writen with well thought out personalities. I can't get enough of Gob's and Callum, they're just great together. It seems like this series is keeping the pattern of delivering amazing stories, and I can't wait to see where the adventure takes these two next; what secrets get uncovered, dangers faced, and idioms mangled.
September 6, 2023
The third book of Gobbelino and Callum's adventures starts with a mini-war between imps and pixies in the duo's office, and never lets up the pace after that. This one sees some of Callum's past come back to haunt him, as he and Gobs are asked by and old friend to find England's last unicorn herd. Callum's past has been a bit of a mystery up until now. We knew that when Gobs found him, he was pretty messed up on drugs. This goes into that back story and shows us how he ended up in that situation, as well as introducing some of his family, who are not fun people, and you can see why Callum wanted to get out.
Gobbelino is a fun narrator (even if I'm more a dog person than a cat one) with a habit of getting aphorisms wrong, in the cutest way, and using vegetables as insults (which makes sense from a cat point of view, I guess). I'm impressed with their ability to both get into and out of difficult situations. I'm sure that there will be more of those to come, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Gobbelino is a fun narrator (even if I'm more a dog person than a cat one) with a habit of getting aphorisms wrong, in the cutest way, and using vegetables as insults (which makes sense from a cat point of view, I guess). I'm impressed with their ability to both get into and out of difficult situations. I'm sure that there will be more of those to come, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
August 13, 2020
Advance copy provided in return for an honest review.
This is the best of the series yet. By now we expect snarky commentary and mangled human sayings from Gobbelino, and we get all of that, but we also take an excursion into Callum's less than cosy past ... It's a book with action, comedy and a whole cast of weird characters, not least Kent the philosophical donkey and the entirely marvellous creation that is Poppy, a very different kind of troll. And it's also a story about friendship, the family we were born with and the family we choose, and the difficulties and rewards of change. And optimism. We could do with a bit of that.
This is the best of the series yet. By now we expect snarky commentary and mangled human sayings from Gobbelino, and we get all of that, but we also take an excursion into Callum's less than cosy past ... It's a book with action, comedy and a whole cast of weird characters, not least Kent the philosophical donkey and the entirely marvellous creation that is Poppy, a very different kind of troll. And it's also a story about friendship, the family we were born with and the family we choose, and the difficulties and rewards of change. And optimism. We could do with a bit of that.
December 7, 2024
This is the third book of Gobbelino London and it gets better and better. This series grows on you. There are a lot of new interesting and dangerous characters in this one: imps, elves, trolls (vegetarian ones!) and most of all: unicorns. If you had the idea that the unicorns are somewhat like cute My Little Pony's, well think again: they are even worse than Gobs with swearing and attitudes. They are dangerous, murderous and always in for a fight. I think Gobs might be a secret fan when it comes to the swearing words of the unicorns.
Also, entering Callum's sister Ez and a throwback on their history, who isn't all sunshine and rainbows. This book was maybe the most serious book so far, because there's a tip of the cover revealed about Callum's past and maybe there's more to come about that.
Gobs might be a bit sarcastic, ironic, full of swear words...but he would give his nine lives for Callum. You can just feel that reading between the lines and Callum, well, he's still so quiet and to himself, but he feels the same about Gobs.
I wonder how the series will continue. Each time it's a feast of action packed scenes, humour and laughter with the occasional emotional moments, high lights and a nice wrap up.
Also, entering Callum's sister Ez and a throwback on their history, who isn't all sunshine and rainbows. This book was maybe the most serious book so far, because there's a tip of the cover revealed about Callum's past and maybe there's more to come about that.
Gobs might be a bit sarcastic, ironic, full of swear words...but he would give his nine lives for Callum. You can just feel that reading between the lines and Callum, well, he's still so quiet and to himself, but he feels the same about Gobs.
I wonder how the series will continue. Each time it's a feast of action packed scenes, humour and laughter with the occasional emotional moments, high lights and a nice wrap up.
September 11, 2020
Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly? I love these books!
I did find part of it a tiny bit predictable, and the ending did seem a bit rushed, but neither to the extent that they detracted from my enjoyment of the story. With that out of the way, allow me to get to what I love about it. Gobs is such a cat! In him, I see traces of many of the cats I've known over the years - real, self-serving, comfort-loving, never admit they care, cats. And his tenuous grasp of idiomatic English is hilarious.
This book delves more into Callum's reasons for preferring to use Gobbelino's surname rather than the one he was born with, and examines the extent of his loyalty. The more I learn of Callum, the more I like him.
Several reviewers have mentioned Poppy, and I agree, she is an utter delight. I especially admire the way she struggles to put thoughts of surprising depth into words. Then there's Gerry, with his boundlessly patient determination and June Cleaver fashion sense, and Kent the donkey who could push the most stalwart stoic headlong into an existential crisis. There are characters who surprised me and others who I really wanted to smack. And it's interesting to note which animals can speak and which ones either can't or won't.
Equally satisfying is the fact that the magic makes sense. It fits the story world's environment and it just works.
A Complication of Unicorns is another worthy, wonderful installment in the Gobbelino London, PI series - one which leaves me a bit sad because there's not a #4 yet. I will be eagerly awaiting it!
Honestly? I love these books!
I did find part of it a tiny bit predictable, and the ending did seem a bit rushed, but neither to the extent that they detracted from my enjoyment of the story. With that out of the way, allow me to get to what I love about it. Gobs is such a cat! In him, I see traces of many of the cats I've known over the years - real, self-serving, comfort-loving, never admit they care, cats. And his tenuous grasp of idiomatic English is hilarious.
This book delves more into Callum's reasons for preferring to use Gobbelino's surname rather than the one he was born with, and examines the extent of his loyalty. The more I learn of Callum, the more I like him.
Several reviewers have mentioned Poppy, and I agree, she is an utter delight. I especially admire the way she struggles to put thoughts of surprising depth into words. Then there's Gerry, with his boundlessly patient determination and June Cleaver fashion sense, and Kent the donkey who could push the most stalwart stoic headlong into an existential crisis. There are characters who surprised me and others who I really wanted to smack. And it's interesting to note which animals can speak and which ones either can't or won't.
Equally satisfying is the fact that the magic makes sense. It fits the story world's environment and it just works.
A Complication of Unicorns is another worthy, wonderful installment in the Gobbelino London, PI series - one which leaves me a bit sad because there's not a #4 yet. I will be eagerly awaiting it!
August 11, 2021
The magical silliness continues... Grammar obsessed trolls, a doc Martin wearing sorcerer, and 2 bookstore owners who weave words, literal, Physical words into spells are just the start. The author has continued her magical alternate world building and added interesting new characters, while keeping Gobs and Callum in the thick of the action. It's almost easy to overlook the loyalty, love, and devotion running through so many of the characters. The trials and tribulations they go through, both currently and in their past, create the type of magical bonds that exist in our world as well.
September 23, 2020
I was given an Arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
It`s been some time since Gobbelino and his human partner Callum prevented the zombie apocalypse, and now an old friend shows up, claiming to have lost his unicorns.
My opinion:
I really enjoyed reading this book, having my theories on who did what and how it would play out in the end. It was gripping and had me on the edge, worrying for Gobs or the others.
I’m not sure who the greatest addition in this book is: The new age trolls with Gerry and Poppy, who are vegetarian and work to defy stereotypes? The new age river spirit who just wants to chat? The foul-mouthed unicorns? The donkey, contemplating his and everyone’s existence? I’m not sure. The novel played with old fantasy elements and twisted them into something new and hilarious. Obviously, I still love Gobs and Callum, and the other humans were nice as well, but the magical creatures absolutely stole the show in this one!
I really liked the setting in Dimly, because that meant we got some more info about magic. The glamours and charms, the network of rats, the magical weapons and weirdly alive pumpkins and carpets, the insights into a troll’s life…I loved it!
As always, the style makes you worry and laugh and you can feel the dark and gloomy atmosphere or imagine the lovely fields and trees they walk past. It`s some kind of magic, I’m sure.
So, this book gets five stars from me, for the style, the story, the lovely characters and the fitting, gloomy setting.
Synopsis:
It`s been some time since Gobbelino and his human partner Callum prevented the zombie apocalypse, and now an old friend shows up, claiming to have lost his unicorns.
My opinion:
I really enjoyed reading this book, having my theories on who did what and how it would play out in the end. It was gripping and had me on the edge, worrying for Gobs or the others.
I’m not sure who the greatest addition in this book is: The new age trolls with Gerry and Poppy, who are vegetarian and work to defy stereotypes? The new age river spirit who just wants to chat? The foul-mouthed unicorns? The donkey, contemplating his and everyone’s existence? I’m not sure. The novel played with old fantasy elements and twisted them into something new and hilarious. Obviously, I still love Gobs and Callum, and the other humans were nice as well, but the magical creatures absolutely stole the show in this one!
I really liked the setting in Dimly, because that meant we got some more info about magic. The glamours and charms, the network of rats, the magical weapons and weirdly alive pumpkins and carpets, the insights into a troll’s life…I loved it!
As always, the style makes you worry and laugh and you can feel the dark and gloomy atmosphere or imagine the lovely fields and trees they walk past. It`s some kind of magic, I’m sure.
So, this book gets five stars from me, for the style, the story, the lovely characters and the fitting, gloomy setting.
October 30, 2020
I could wait to get my hands on this book - the 3rd in the fantastic Gobbelino London series. I read the first book as I follow the author on social media and was impressed with her content. I didn't really think it would be for me as I don't generally read fantasy or humour, but I was proved wrong and absolutely loved it. I totally fell in love with the flawed and lovable characters - Gobbelino the talking cat and his Private Investigator Partner Callum. They are just awesome and the dynamic and interchanges between them provide much of the comedy and the poignancy of these unique books. I devoured the 2nd book and became well and truly hooked. This 3rd book did not let me down at all - it's probably the best one as I was longing for more information on Callum's hinted at dark past and this book provided it at last. The author has created such realistic and lovable characters that you just want to know more about them, what events created them and led them to where they now are. I read this super fast because as usual, it was jam packed with drama and intrigue. Each chapter provides its fair share of laughs, danger, horror and optimism. These books are just a perfect antidote to the craziness around us and if you need to break free of it all and enjoy something entirely different then do give these books a go. I desperately want there to be a 4th book! Oh, and TV series!!!
August 17, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is absolutely the best book in the series yet and when you consider that the first two were pretty darn brilliant that's saying a lot. Lots of giggles and laugh out loud moments, an abundance of charm and real warmth and optimism. Ms Watt is the sort of author who makes you want to pack up and move to Yorkshire, the people (both human and otherwise) are just so wonderfully eccentric and warm, there's magic lurking around every corner if you look for it and the food doesn't sound half bad either (although in this book there's more cups of tea than cakes, but that's none too bad either).
Callum and Gobbelino are 'hired' to find a missing herd of unicorns and an abducted sister by an old friend of Callum's (although I do wonder if they ever actually get paid). The investigation sees us learn more about Callum's past and introduces us to a load of wonderful new characters including a philosophical donkey and a cross-dressing new age troll who grows flowers and kale. It culminates in a zany brawl involving Komodo dragons, rats, a water sprite, trolls, any number of magical objects, barnyard animals, unicorns, a few humans and of course one snarky cat. What's not to like?
This is absolutely the best book in the series yet and when you consider that the first two were pretty darn brilliant that's saying a lot. Lots of giggles and laugh out loud moments, an abundance of charm and real warmth and optimism. Ms Watt is the sort of author who makes you want to pack up and move to Yorkshire, the people (both human and otherwise) are just so wonderfully eccentric and warm, there's magic lurking around every corner if you look for it and the food doesn't sound half bad either (although in this book there's more cups of tea than cakes, but that's none too bad either).
Callum and Gobbelino are 'hired' to find a missing herd of unicorns and an abducted sister by an old friend of Callum's (although I do wonder if they ever actually get paid). The investigation sees us learn more about Callum's past and introduces us to a load of wonderful new characters including a philosophical donkey and a cross-dressing new age troll who grows flowers and kale. It culminates in a zany brawl involving Komodo dragons, rats, a water sprite, trolls, any number of magical objects, barnyard animals, unicorns, a few humans and of course one snarky cat. What's not to like?
August 24, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The third installment is another delightful read and honestly, the best of the three Gobbelino books so far. We get, as always in Ms Watt’s books, genuine friendship, interesting mysteries and lots of great one-liners and quips.
This new adventure of Gobbelino and Callum, takes a darker turn as shadows from the past come creeping back to haunt Callum and take the P.I. duo deep into the underworld of magical drug smuggling and weapons dealers. When an old childhood friend begs Callum to help rescue his kidnapped sister, and find the only herd of unicorns in Britain that has gone missing, Gobbelino tries in vain to keep Callum safe.
Through their quest they are assisted and hindered by a variety of magical races, including vegetarian trolls, a philosophical donkey, fainting goats, three-headed dogs, and twin-sister librarians who use words as magic. There are also more hints that all is not well within the Watch.
And no, unicorns are not fluffy and sweet, lol! They are vain, vicious and selfish, a humorous (and welcome) change from the mythical tradition! But they are beautiful, and their horns are worth more than any gold…
110% recommended!
The third installment is another delightful read and honestly, the best of the three Gobbelino books so far. We get, as always in Ms Watt’s books, genuine friendship, interesting mysteries and lots of great one-liners and quips.
This new adventure of Gobbelino and Callum, takes a darker turn as shadows from the past come creeping back to haunt Callum and take the P.I. duo deep into the underworld of magical drug smuggling and weapons dealers. When an old childhood friend begs Callum to help rescue his kidnapped sister, and find the only herd of unicorns in Britain that has gone missing, Gobbelino tries in vain to keep Callum safe.
Through their quest they are assisted and hindered by a variety of magical races, including vegetarian trolls, a philosophical donkey, fainting goats, three-headed dogs, and twin-sister librarians who use words as magic. There are also more hints that all is not well within the Watch.
And no, unicorns are not fluffy and sweet, lol! They are vain, vicious and selfish, a humorous (and welcome) change from the mythical tradition! But they are beautiful, and their horns are worth more than any gold…
110% recommended!
September 8, 2020
This is the third book in the Gobbelino London series and in my opinion, the best. So far anyway!
We go along with Gobbelino and Callum on a journey to Callum’s past-a town aptly named Dimly. Looking for an old friend’s sister and some rather nasty unicorns. It was an enlightening view into Callum’s past. During the search for the missing sister and unicorns, some strange, and endearing characters emerge. Run of the mill terrifying trolls, killer Komodo dragons, and evil magic beings at every turn try to stop Callum and Gobbelino from their mission. All horrible things of nightmares. Jack O lanterns as well! A New Age troll named Gerry with a penchant for dangling earrings, witty and his protege, sweet Poppy, a deep thinking donkey named Kent, a blase pig, some fainting goats and anarchist rats led by Patsy emerge as the heroes.
This is a fun read. Witty and dark at times. So many characters and an intricate plot. With an unexpected ending. Kim M Watt set the bar high with this book. Gobbelino has a chance to showcase his care and nurturing of Callum. I highly recommend this book. And am eagerly awaiting book four!
Thank you to the author for providing a copy and giving me the chance to review. I’d give it ten stars if I could!
We go along with Gobbelino and Callum on a journey to Callum’s past-a town aptly named Dimly. Looking for an old friend’s sister and some rather nasty unicorns. It was an enlightening view into Callum’s past. During the search for the missing sister and unicorns, some strange, and endearing characters emerge. Run of the mill terrifying trolls, killer Komodo dragons, and evil magic beings at every turn try to stop Callum and Gobbelino from their mission. All horrible things of nightmares. Jack O lanterns as well! A New Age troll named Gerry with a penchant for dangling earrings, witty and his protege, sweet Poppy, a deep thinking donkey named Kent, a blase pig, some fainting goats and anarchist rats led by Patsy emerge as the heroes.
This is a fun read. Witty and dark at times. So many characters and an intricate plot. With an unexpected ending. Kim M Watt set the bar high with this book. Gobbelino has a chance to showcase his care and nurturing of Callum. I highly recommend this book. And am eagerly awaiting book four!
Thank you to the author for providing a copy and giving me the chance to review. I’d give it ten stars if I could!
March 7, 2021
Witty and warm-hearted fantasy
Confusingly, this urban fantasy is set in and around Leeds rather than London. It is the third of Watt's novels about an unlikely pair of Private Investigators - a black cat called Gobbelino and recovering drug-addict Callum, a human who can hear and see Folk, the `magical kinds of the world'. Gobbelino, with his contempt for human ways and focus on food and warmth, makes an amusing narrator. I found Callum a little dull in the first two volumes but in this one his interesting past catches up with him with a vengeance.
When Callum reluctantly agrees to help an old friend find his kidnapped sister and a missing herd of unicorns nothing goes to plan. This story is an excellent mix of comedy and hair-raising adventures. Gobbelino and Callum acquire some extraordinary allies to help them defeat the bad guys. My favourite character is Gerry a gracious cross-dressing troll who is `working to break stereotypes and redefine trollness in the modern world'. Resistance is futile.
Confusingly, this urban fantasy is set in and around Leeds rather than London. It is the third of Watt's novels about an unlikely pair of Private Investigators - a black cat called Gobbelino and recovering drug-addict Callum, a human who can hear and see Folk, the `magical kinds of the world'. Gobbelino, with his contempt for human ways and focus on food and warmth, makes an amusing narrator. I found Callum a little dull in the first two volumes but in this one his interesting past catches up with him with a vengeance.
When Callum reluctantly agrees to help an old friend find his kidnapped sister and a missing herd of unicorns nothing goes to plan. This story is an excellent mix of comedy and hair-raising adventures. Gobbelino and Callum acquire some extraordinary allies to help them defeat the bad guys. My favourite character is Gerry a gracious cross-dressing troll who is `working to break stereotypes and redefine trollness in the modern world'. Resistance is futile.
August 28, 2020
I always had the suspicion, that unicorns do not really go together with rainbows and pink.
Kim M. Watts confirmed that suspicion.
Gobelino and his sidekick Callum are trying to find a missing herd of unicorns.
As always with our two Private Investigators things do not develop as smoothly as hoped, but that makes interesting reading.
While hunting for the unicorns in the countryside around Leeds, Gobelino learns a bit lot about Callums past: Where he came from, why he left, and why he never talks about it. As Gobelino so clearly observes: “The past bites sometimes.”
While searching for the lost herd, our heroes meet new friends and old enemies.
I really enjoyed the entertaining time, I was allowed to spend with Gobelino. Thank you to the author.
Kim M. Watts confirmed that suspicion.
Gobelino and his sidekick Callum are trying to find a missing herd of unicorns.
As always with our two Private Investigators things do not develop as smoothly as hoped, but that makes interesting reading.
While hunting for the unicorns in the countryside around Leeds, Gobelino learns a bit lot about Callums past: Where he came from, why he left, and why he never talks about it. As Gobelino so clearly observes: “The past bites sometimes.”
While searching for the lost herd, our heroes meet new friends and old enemies.
I really enjoyed the entertaining time, I was allowed to spend with Gobelino. Thank you to the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 25, 2023
You can often tell my mood by the types of books I read. Kim Watt always offers fantastical escapism. Just what I needed.
In this book, we get a rare glimpse into the history of Callum, Gobbelino's human PI assistant. And it rakes up all sorts of mischief, as one has come to expect. (Gobbelino being a magnificently snarky cat, of course.)
There is even more danger lurking in this one. It turns out, unicorns are really quite psychopathically cantankerous. I mean - how hard should they even try to look for the missing herd? And trolls can be new-aged. Who knew?
Such fun!!
Although, I may avoid bookshops for a while. And do watch out for the donkey; may cause an existential crisis ;)
If you're looking for a whacky detective with a plethora of paranormal activity, this is the book for you.
In this book, we get a rare glimpse into the history of Callum, Gobbelino's human PI assistant. And it rakes up all sorts of mischief, as one has come to expect. (Gobbelino being a magnificently snarky cat, of course.)
There is even more danger lurking in this one. It turns out, unicorns are really quite psychopathically cantankerous. I mean - how hard should they even try to look for the missing herd? And trolls can be new-aged. Who knew?
Such fun!!
Although, I may avoid bookshops for a while. And do watch out for the donkey; may cause an existential crisis ;)
If you're looking for a whacky detective with a plethora of paranormal activity, this is the book for you.
August 29, 2020
An enchanting tale where the author turns some expectations on their heads... Unicorns aren't nice!! and rats are?? never mind trolls with good, very good, manners! A visitor shows up looking for Callum's help, which leads the PI tandem of Gobbelino (a remarkable feline) and Callum on a very reluctant foray into his past. It was interesting to learn a little of Callum's history., but it is not necessary to have read the other books in the series to thoroughly enjoy this well written light hearted and humorous tale. (But they're great reads too!) It has lots of action, a varied cast of characters both real and mythological, and twists and turns in solving the mystery are engaging. I received an ARC and this is my unbiased and voluntary review.
February 2, 2021
Well that was fun and inventive. She does write a really good fight scene with a difference and has a great imagination for magical details. I especially liked the two book shop cum private library owning ladies' word based magic - and no this isn't just chanting. Gobbelino the cat is in full sarcastic form and is joined by a philosophical donkey, a pig with attitude and two fainting goats (Clarence! it's a cat! - swoon). There are some rather unusual trolls and it turns out that unicorns are nasty, aggressive gits and always fighting. I do also like the insults the cats use - you soggy courgette and the like when pouring scorn on a human who is failing to keep up. All the inventiveness and humour is what gets this a five star rating.
September 3, 2024
An antidote for the times we live in
I have fallen in love with Kim M. Watt's writing. There is no other way to describe my reaction: I am obsessed, I have bought every title I could and downloaded every short story she generously offers in return for receiving her newsletter - which is more of her writing! In this time of dreadful anxiety over politics and the impending possibility of the end to the American Experiment in Democracy, Kim Watt has given the world a whole universe of wondrous, fearsome and reality twisting stories that take me completely away from the stomach churning reality that the U.S. currently offers. As well written as they are delightfully hair raising, I cannot recommend the Gobbelino London series highly enough.
I have fallen in love with Kim M. Watt's writing. There is no other way to describe my reaction: I am obsessed, I have bought every title I could and downloaded every short story she generously offers in return for receiving her newsletter - which is more of her writing! In this time of dreadful anxiety over politics and the impending possibility of the end to the American Experiment in Democracy, Kim Watt has given the world a whole universe of wondrous, fearsome and reality twisting stories that take me completely away from the stomach churning reality that the U.S. currently offers. As well written as they are delightfully hair raising, I cannot recommend the Gobbelino London series highly enough.
August 23, 2020
I received an ARC for a honest review. I enjoy Kim Watt’s writing - her writing is personable and clever. I have enjoyed all three of the “adventures” of Gobs and Callum. However, in this book we start to see more of who Callum is. We gain some insights into his past and maybe some explanation of why he can see the others. Gobs as usual “steals the show” with his bravery and surprising loyalty to Callum. I am looking forward to learning more about Callum, Gobs and the Watch. I recommend this to all - but start with book one so it makes sense.
August 28, 2020
A fantastic romp through a small, real-not-real, village with a witty cat detective and his human detective Callum, trying to help an old friend find where the most unlovely, magical unicorns have vanished to. Along the way they encounter talking animals, ogres trying to better themselves, a philosophical donkey, very smart and brave rats, and other fun characters. Of course, there are some awful humans they must defeat. A truly fun and engaging book. Part of a three book series, it stands alone as a wonderful book.
November 21, 2023
beware the binge!
After reading the entire 7 book series in as many days, I thought I would start over slowly, taking my time to savor the story.. Boy, was I ever wrong! Although I will say that this second read through took a little longer, perhaps a day and a half per book, I still could not get enough of the story and found myself cracking the books ope. At every single opportunity. Kim Watt is a enthralling story teller and truly an artist with words. I look forward to exploring her other novels!
After reading the entire 7 book series in as many days, I thought I would start over slowly, taking my time to savor the story.. Boy, was I ever wrong! Although I will say that this second read through took a little longer, perhaps a day and a half per book, I still could not get enough of the story and found myself cracking the books ope. At every single opportunity. Kim Watt is a enthralling story teller and truly an artist with words. I look forward to exploring her other novels!
March 19, 2024
Darkest book in the series. Both Callum and Gobs have a hard --and dangerous-- time, what with family story, komodos, crows, vegan trolls and deadly sisters facing them.
It appears to be, unfortunately, the first book of the end of this series for me, as it suffers from being repetitive: while it was still fun and (more) action-packed as the others, Kim seems to be running out of imagination with certain elements (some jokes, the Watch, the pace).
Will keep it rolling, but with a little flag for the next book.
It appears to be, unfortunately, the first book of the end of this series for me, as it suffers from being repetitive: while it was still fun and (more) action-packed as the others, Kim seems to be running out of imagination with certain elements (some jokes, the Watch, the pace).
Will keep it rolling, but with a little flag for the next book.
September 19, 2024
Yet another great entry in the Gobbelino London series! I loved the new characters introduced in this one. The quirks to their personalities are very endearing and each one has a distinctive personality. All of the characters in this series are so distinctive! There is so much imagination poured into each book in this series. The ideas are original and pleasantly weird - weird enough to tickle the part of me that craves new experiences, but not the kind of weird that is either alienating or gratuitous. Fun stuff!
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