What do you think?
Rate this book
Valkyrie Bestiary #0·5
Three Half Goats Gruff
Is he a vampire? A shifter? Something worse? Thrown together to save a middle school from an infestation of satyrs, Kyra and the mysterious Captain of the Guardians share one heart-stopping night.
Critter wrangling rule #4: There isn’t much you can’t kill, confuse, or disgust with a can of bug fogger.
A Paranormal Suspense Story with a Touch of Romance
Critter wrangling rule #4: There isn’t much you can’t kill, confuse, or disgust with a can of bug fogger.
A Paranormal Suspense Story with a Touch of Romance
45 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2020
463 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
Kim McDougall
46 books357 followersIf Kim McDougall could have one magical superpower, it would be to talk to animals. Or maybe to shift into animal form. Definitely, fantastical critters and magic often feature in her stories. So until she can change into a Griffin and fly away, she writes dark paranormal action and romance tales. Kim is also passionate about fiber art, photography, children’s literacy, rescue animals, nature, and genre-bending fiction. She also writes for children under pen name Kim Chatel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
October 19, 2021
Too short
I just could not get into the story line and I didn't realize that this was a short read maybe if it was a longer story I could have given it more stars, first time reading with this Author Kim McDougall, received this ebook from Amazon
I just could not get into the story line and I didn't realize that this was a short read maybe if it was a longer story I could have given it more stars, first time reading with this Author Kim McDougall, received this ebook from Amazon
September 21, 2020
Cute novelette that teases for the next book
I enjoyed this small book and will be moving on to the next in the series. A mini kraken? I’m sold! 😂
I enjoyed this small book and will be moving on to the next in the series. A mini kraken? I’m sold! 😂
January 12, 2021
Short intro to a new series. Backtracked to learn more about their first meeting. Cute story, part blog and an adorable kraken. Sounds interesting.
November 1, 2023
Audiobook Narrated by
Hollie Jackson
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute, but short.
Hollie Jackson
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cute, but short.
June 15, 2023
This is more a prologue than a novella. I'm not sure what the purpose was except to maybe introduce the two main characters and a very tiny bit of the world.
February 21, 2021
Very likable heroine, interesting world building, and a laugh out loud moment or two made this an unexpectedly great read! I've never read this author before, but I am definitely a fan now. 4+ stars
October 13, 2021
So I have no relationship with this author or series from beforehand, and that's something that can go both ways when I try to read a prequel to a series.
On one hand, I might find that it doesn't make a lot of sense, for I should have already read the whole series to find any of it interesting or connect with the characters. That, if you ask me, speaks of poor writing. A prequel should be just that, a story set before everything else, and so should be treated as an individual.
On the second hand, I might love it and find a new series to read.
In this case, it talks of good writing. Not only the technique down - good writing and clear characters with personalities - but I find the story and events interesting without knowing anything about this world or characters from before hand. Even better, it should also trigger a wish to read more.
That's the case with this short for me. I very much enjoyed the characters and creatures, and I was pleasantly surprised at the ''blog posts'' toward the end. It was a very smart way to both grow the personality of the MC, as well as drop hints about the world. The hints were already there earlier in the story, but these blog posts and the following comments did a lot to pique my interest. As well as annoyance at the one commenter!
And Hunter seems so cute!
I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
On one hand, I might find that it doesn't make a lot of sense, for I should have already read the whole series to find any of it interesting or connect with the characters. That, if you ask me, speaks of poor writing. A prequel should be just that, a story set before everything else, and so should be treated as an individual.
On the second hand, I might love it and find a new series to read.
In this case, it talks of good writing. Not only the technique down - good writing and clear characters with personalities - but I find the story and events interesting without knowing anything about this world or characters from before hand. Even better, it should also trigger a wish to read more.
That's the case with this short for me. I very much enjoyed the characters and creatures, and I was pleasantly surprised at the ''blog posts'' toward the end. It was a very smart way to both grow the personality of the MC, as well as drop hints about the world. The hints were already there earlier in the story, but these blog posts and the following comments did a lot to pique my interest. As well as annoyance at the one commenter!
And Hunter seems so cute!
I'm really looking forward to reading the rest of this series.
March 26, 2021
Kyra is a Valkyrie who runs a pest control business dealing with magical beasties. This time she has been called out to deal with three satyrs who are causing mischief at a school. But it turns out she might have to deal with something more difficult she soon learns. Maybe the mysterious man who turns up could be of assistance?
This was a cute story with a very likeable heroine. I liked the writing and the dialogue flowed easily.
I also loved the little octopus ,wich turns out to be a
Will definetely pick up the next book in the series. Though this is just a prequel novella so the actual first book is Dragons Don't Eat Meat
It has the same light style as Discount Armageddon or The Glass Gargoyle
This was a cute story with a very likeable heroine. I liked the writing and the dialogue flowed easily.
I also loved the little octopus ,wich turns out to be a
Will definetely pick up the next book in the series. Though this is just a prequel novella so the actual first book is Dragons Don't Eat Meat
It has the same light style as Discount Armageddon or The Glass Gargoyle
Read
August 9, 2025An interesting introduction to the series. Though I really could've done without I kept thinking it was going to be explained, that there was a good reason for this, something that happens to Valkyries after battle...but nope! And yes it still annoys me days after reading. But that's me for you. Though I wish we had more of Hunter instead.
January 2, 2021
Fun introduction to series
A fun introduction to the series, in which Kyra the protagonist is introduced. Filled with humour, a short, satisfying read.
A fun introduction to the series, in which Kyra the protagonist is introduced. Filled with humour, a short, satisfying read.
October 28, 2024
Having recently read book 1 in this series, and having completely fallen under the author's spell, I was delighted to pick up this short story. Kyra is truly unique, in so many ways. First off, she's a Valkerie; secondly, she's got an unusual...umm... perception, no I'm not going to say what, you need to read the series to unravel all her awesome skills! Thirdly, she's very compassionate; fourthly, she runs her own pest control service business; fifthly, she "adopts" all kinds of creatures. Unique enough? And then the adventures she has doing her job, gee whiz are they fun!
So, Kyra's back in school, nope, not to further her education, unique job remember? While tracking her quarry, she finds herself confronted by a creature who's notoriously difficult to apprehend, let alone injure. Luckily, a stranger appears, a cool stranger who sets her heart aflutter. And what a hunk he is, literally! I loved the introduction story, I had wondered how they'd met and I enjoyed every tense moment! Awww, and there's the most adorable squid, or is it a baby kraken? No matter, what does matter is this tiny little being having the toughest set of... you get the idea. So adorable I fell in love with Hunter immediately.
Which is precisely why I said I was under Ms McDougall's spell, I've just touched on the story. There is so much, visually, that stimulated my need to keep reading, it had to be a hidden spell.... one thing is without a doubt, certain, this author captivated me, pulling me smoothly into this magnificent world she's built. A tasty fast paced introduction to a great series, that feels like a full novel, with a desire for more!
So, Kyra's back in school, nope, not to further her education, unique job remember? While tracking her quarry, she finds herself confronted by a creature who's notoriously difficult to apprehend, let alone injure. Luckily, a stranger appears, a cool stranger who sets her heart aflutter. And what a hunk he is, literally! I loved the introduction story, I had wondered how they'd met and I enjoyed every tense moment! Awww, and there's the most adorable squid, or is it a baby kraken? No matter, what does matter is this tiny little being having the toughest set of... you get the idea. So adorable I fell in love with Hunter immediately.
Which is precisely why I said I was under Ms McDougall's spell, I've just touched on the story. There is so much, visually, that stimulated my need to keep reading, it had to be a hidden spell.... one thing is without a doubt, certain, this author captivated me, pulling me smoothly into this magnificent world she's built. A tasty fast paced introduction to a great series, that feels like a full novel, with a desire for more!
March 29, 2023
Kyra Greene works pest control. Supernatural pest control. That doesn't mean killing things all the time either. She gets called in for a job involving three bratty satyrs and discovers so much more. A gorgeous stranger helps her, but why and who is he? Also does it matter if they can't survive the brutal rock troll under the bridge?
This was a fun short paranormal romance read. It read to me more like a prologue than a story in itself, and I do see it is a prequel to a the Valkyrie Bestiary series. I really liked the idea of a pest control handling supernatural problems and relocating the pests. The satyrs weren't murderous, after all. They were actually sort of cute! The mysterious cephalopod was also adorable, though we didn't see much of it at all. The hot stranger had all the right delicious paranormal romance hero attributes, and it sets up a possible growing relationship for him and Kyra in the series. Kyra is a Valkyrie doing pest control, which I didn't understand, but perhaps the answers come in the series itself. It's too short of a read to go into anything with depth. This book, while cute and fluffy, has me interested in the series, and I will pick up the next one.
This was a fun short paranormal romance read. It read to me more like a prologue than a story in itself, and I do see it is a prequel to a the Valkyrie Bestiary series. I really liked the idea of a pest control handling supernatural problems and relocating the pests. The satyrs weren't murderous, after all. They were actually sort of cute! The mysterious cephalopod was also adorable, though we didn't see much of it at all. The hot stranger had all the right delicious paranormal romance hero attributes, and it sets up a possible growing relationship for him and Kyra in the series. Kyra is a Valkyrie doing pest control, which I didn't understand, but perhaps the answers come in the series itself. It's too short of a read to go into anything with depth. This book, while cute and fluffy, has me interested in the series, and I will pick up the next one.
Read
September 2, 2021Fun Supplement to Valkyrie Bestiary Series
⭐⭐⭐½
This was a fun read. A nice addition to the Valkyrie Bestiary series, but wouldn't make much sense without having read at least the first book of that series (Dragons Don't Eat Meat). That said, it tells the brief story (only about 50 pages to the ebook, & maybe 10 of those at the end are a teaser of Dragons) of protagonist Kyra's first meeting with her slow burn. Gargoyle love interest, Henry Mason. That was okay to read, although it's explained (albeit in less detail, but arguably plenty enough to not really call for a prequel) pretty well in Dragons. Honestly, what I liked beat about it was the introduction to how Kyra came to rescue her Pygmy Kraken, Hunter, who was a humorous & adorable player in the subsequent novels. (I want a pygmy kraken!) Bottom line: good for fans of the series but doesn't really add anything important enough to make it a must read. If you haven't read the rest of the series, I definitely recommend reading at least book 1 before checking out this short story, because I just feel like it wouldn't do much for readers who weren't already familiar with the plot.
⭐⭐⭐½
This was a fun read. A nice addition to the Valkyrie Bestiary series, but wouldn't make much sense without having read at least the first book of that series (Dragons Don't Eat Meat). That said, it tells the brief story (only about 50 pages to the ebook, & maybe 10 of those at the end are a teaser of Dragons) of protagonist Kyra's first meeting with her slow burn. Gargoyle love interest, Henry Mason. That was okay to read, although it's explained (albeit in less detail, but arguably plenty enough to not really call for a prequel) pretty well in Dragons. Honestly, what I liked beat about it was the introduction to how Kyra came to rescue her Pygmy Kraken, Hunter, who was a humorous & adorable player in the subsequent novels. (I want a pygmy kraken!) Bottom line: good for fans of the series but doesn't really add anything important enough to make it a must read. If you haven't read the rest of the series, I definitely recommend reading at least book 1 before checking out this short story, because I just feel like it wouldn't do much for readers who weren't already familiar with the plot.
March 26, 2021
3.5⭐️
‘Three Half Goats Gruff’ is the prequel Novella to Kim McDougall’s Valkyrie Bestiary series.
A quick and enjoyable introduction read to a new author. I was excited and interested to read this book when I saw the title of the series had Valkyrie in it, and I was not disappointed. Exiting creatures and beings in this world and I can’t wait to explore it in more detail with the Following books in the series.
Kyra Greene has been called to a local School as they are having trouble with three small Satyrs. But where there are Satyr’s and a Bridge there is a troll underneath. But dealing with this troll is more trouble than what Kyra was expecting, especially when she end up badly injured.
Again I have to say such a great introduction into this world that Ms McDougall has created, although it was short the pages are bursting with a journey you will want to experience. It really opens you up to the possibilities that can come from this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novella and I’m looking forward to see how things pan out for Kyra, Mason, Gita and Hunter.
‘Three Half Goats Gruff’ is the prequel Novella to Kim McDougall’s Valkyrie Bestiary series.
A quick and enjoyable introduction read to a new author. I was excited and interested to read this book when I saw the title of the series had Valkyrie in it, and I was not disappointed. Exiting creatures and beings in this world and I can’t wait to explore it in more detail with the Following books in the series.
Kyra Greene has been called to a local School as they are having trouble with three small Satyrs. But where there are Satyr’s and a Bridge there is a troll underneath. But dealing with this troll is more trouble than what Kyra was expecting, especially when she end up badly injured.
Again I have to say such a great introduction into this world that Ms McDougall has created, although it was short the pages are bursting with a journey you will want to experience. It really opens you up to the possibilities that can come from this series.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novella and I’m looking forward to see how things pan out for Kyra, Mason, Gita and Hunter.
September 23, 2024
Kyra is summoned to a middle school to rid it of an infestation of satyrs. Once she arrives, Kyra observes the satyrs clattering back and forth over a bridge that spans a creek behind the school. A stranger is already there, and he warns Kyra that the satyrs' antics have awoken a troll. It will take the two of them working together, along with the help of a misplaced cephalopod, to subdue the troll.
This was short enough I read it over the course of two evenings. Since it was a prequel, there was minimal backstory provided, and characters weren't fully realized. Nevertheless, I found it enjoyable. The naughty satyrs provided plenty of comic relief, and there was certainly some attraction between Kyra and the handsome gargoyle who assisted her.
Brief but interesting, and I look forward to reading more. Four stars.
This was short enough I read it over the course of two evenings. Since it was a prequel, there was minimal backstory provided, and characters weren't fully realized. Nevertheless, I found it enjoyable. The naughty satyrs provided plenty of comic relief, and there was certainly some attraction between Kyra and the handsome gargoyle who assisted her.
Brief but interesting, and I look forward to reading more. Four stars.
September 5, 2025
I love when I find a new author's writing to fall in love with, Kim McDougall is a great find. I think first person perspectives are hard to pull off in fantasy writing at times. McDougall did a great job here. I enjoyed the addition of the little Pygmy Kraken on the cover. His personality matches his great looks. And I wasn't expecting the little bit of romance thrown in between Kyra and Mason.
I also have to take a minute and applaud the addition of an often ignored creature in fantasy, the gargoyle. I haven't read a single fantasy book yet that includes them and for that, I sing my praise. Please, picture it in the cute squeaks of our new Pygmy Kraken friend. I can't wait to read more of Kim McDougall's writing, I'll be moving onto Dragon's Don't Eat Meat.
I also have to take a minute and applaud the addition of an often ignored creature in fantasy, the gargoyle. I haven't read a single fantasy book yet that includes them and for that, I sing my praise. Please, picture it in the cute squeaks of our new Pygmy Kraken friend. I can't wait to read more of Kim McDougall's writing, I'll be moving onto Dragon's Don't Eat Meat.
October 8, 2020
4 Watch for the Other Stars
Three Half Goats Gruff is a novella, and first insight into the Valkyrie Bestiary series by Kim McDougall.
Cute little story introducing us to Kyra Greene, our cantankerous FMC Valkyrie, pest control, bounty hunter. With a nice little glimpse of Henry Mason, her mysterious gargoyle love interest to come. With the cute little cephalopod savior that is the mischievous Pygmy kraken affectionately named Hunter.
Excited to unearth the mysteries of this new (for me) series. Half in love with both the characters and the world already. As well a little heart eyes over McDougall’s work just from this short read.
Three Half Goats Gruff is a novella, and first insight into the Valkyrie Bestiary series by Kim McDougall.
Cute little story introducing us to Kyra Greene, our cantankerous FMC Valkyrie, pest control, bounty hunter. With a nice little glimpse of Henry Mason, her mysterious gargoyle love interest to come. With the cute little cephalopod savior that is the mischievous Pygmy kraken affectionately named Hunter.
Excited to unearth the mysteries of this new (for me) series. Half in love with both the characters and the world already. As well a little heart eyes over McDougall’s work just from this short read.
October 26, 2020
A great teaser for the series.
It had an interesting premise and the initial introduction to the world and our protagonist was great. And while I knew going in that this was a short story, I honestly didn’t expect this short a story. I can’t help feeling a little peeved off that it takes up only 68% of the ebook with the last third being a sneak peek at the first book.
Would have given this four stars if not for the short length and abridged feeling.
3 stars ⭐️
And yes, I am going to read the first book cause I liked Hunter 🐙
It had an interesting premise and the initial introduction to the world and our protagonist was great. And while I knew going in that this was a short story, I honestly didn’t expect this short a story. I can’t help feeling a little peeved off that it takes up only 68% of the ebook with the last third being a sneak peek at the first book.
Would have given this four stars if not for the short length and abridged feeling.
3 stars ⭐️
And yes, I am going to read the first book cause I liked Hunter 🐙
February 7, 2022
Sometimes you just want to read something light and "Three Half Goats Gruff", a very short intro to 'The Valkyrie Bestiary" series, certainly fits the bill.
Kyra is a Valkyrie and earns a crust in pest control. Her latest job involves getting rid of some juvenile Satyrs who have been having rather too much fun in the neighbourhood. And there's a Troll, a helpful Gargoyle and a pygmy Kraken.
It's great fun and certainly makes me want more!
It's too short to properly rate but I figure it as a solid 3 Stars.
Kyra is a Valkyrie and earns a crust in pest control. Her latest job involves getting rid of some juvenile Satyrs who have been having rather too much fun in the neighbourhood. And there's a Troll, a helpful Gargoyle and a pygmy Kraken.
It's great fun and certainly makes me want more!
It's too short to properly rate but I figure it as a solid 3 Stars.
September 9, 2020
Loved This Short Prequel
Ok, so I love animals, all kinds of animals. The cover of the book caught my attention. I was going to pass based on the length of the book, but I kept seeing that cute ocean creature in my mind. I had to know why this young woman was holding the creature up for inspection. So glad I did. There was a really good story behind that book cover scene. Now, onto book 1.
Ok, so I love animals, all kinds of animals. The cover of the book caught my attention. I was going to pass based on the length of the book, but I kept seeing that cute ocean creature in my mind. I had to know why this young woman was holding the creature up for inspection. So glad I did. There was a really good story behind that book cover scene. Now, onto book 1.
March 3, 2021
Kyra
This short story is the prequel to the series and introduces the MC, Kyra, a Valkyrie Dryad who owns a pest control business, rescues creatures that wouldn't be able to survive on their own and has a Banshee roommate. It also introduces Mason, a gargoyle she meets under a bridge as they face off against an indestructible foe. I've already read books 1-3 and am looking forward to more.
This short story is the prequel to the series and introduces the MC, Kyra, a Valkyrie Dryad who owns a pest control business, rescues creatures that wouldn't be able to survive on their own and has a Banshee roommate. It also introduces Mason, a gargoyle she meets under a bridge as they face off against an indestructible foe. I've already read books 1-3 and am looking forward to more.
April 12, 2021
Interesting!
I definitely enjoyed reading this book. It's different from the usual books I read and kept me interested because most of the time I had no idea what was going to happen next! It has unusual creatures, including our main star who is a Valkyrie working in pest control. Yes, pest control! It's a quick read, the prequel to the series, and I hope you enjoy it too.
✋🐺
I definitely enjoyed reading this book. It's different from the usual books I read and kept me interested because most of the time I had no idea what was going to happen next! It has unusual creatures, including our main star who is a Valkyrie working in pest control. Yes, pest control! It's a quick read, the prequel to the series, and I hope you enjoy it too.
✋🐺
May 30, 2021
Yay
I am so glad to have found this series.Yes I know I read it kinda strange this should have been book 1 but hey it was the last one I grabbed and u can bet I will have them all.. This is one great series . It has all kinds of creatures big small new old and a bag full of magical laughs 😅. If its a fun great read u are looking for grab this book and all that comes next u wont regret it . I havent ♡♡♡
I am so glad to have found this series.Yes I know I read it kinda strange this should have been book 1 but hey it was the last one I grabbed and u can bet I will have them all.. This is one great series . It has all kinds of creatures big small new old and a bag full of magical laughs 😅. If its a fun great read u are looking for grab this book and all that comes next u wont regret it . I havent ♡♡♡
January 10, 2022
A short story that introduces Mason to the main character for the first time. It was a good introduction and a solid story, which answered some questions from the first full length novel, where Mason is already known the the MC. It takes their first meeting offscreen and gives us the context, which adds a bit to the main book. Still, definitely a short story, and doesn't have as much going for it as a full length book.
April 10, 2022
I wanted to give this series another go since starting with a pre-prequel may have been my original problem. Turns out, it wasn't. While this story had a lof of things I missed from the previous novella; a continuous backgound for Kyra, an understandable history of the world...
But while I was still looking for slow romance what I got was stupid. Kissing someone after meeting them 20 minutes ago and spending all of those minutes fighting... Nope.
But while I was still looking for slow romance what I got was stupid. Kissing someone after meeting them 20 minutes ago and spending all of those minutes fighting... Nope.
August 31, 2023
I did enjoy this short story. I did enjoy the fact that this book did explain some things. 47 pages long and then it goes on about the first peek at the first book in the series. A little rough when it says 50 something in pages but it's really 47. I'm paying for the story not the peek so say it's 47 pages and charge for that but this is something that needs to be taken up with Amazon not the writer. Where to go?
December 4, 2023
This is a cute and fun prequel to the Valkyrie Bestiary series. It introduces Kyra, the supernatural pest control expert. While trying to get rid of a few satyrs from her old alma Mater, she meets Mason, a man who saves her from an unexpected rock troll. It also introduces Hunter, the pygmy kraken. (Who is adorable!!) The only thing that I would've like more of would be a little longer story! This came as a combo on audible, so I am already into Dragons Don't Eat Meat.
January 13, 2024
Kraken Open The Fun
Like a well organized carry-on, this story is packed to capacity, holding everything needed for a quick, adrenaline-laced getaway. Kim McDougall thought of everything for your trip, including a big snack (Mason). You'll be riding first class with first rate bada$$, Kyra, and if you're nice, the big eyed squid can pass for a pillow.
Over all, a deeply satyrsfying prequel to The Valkyrie Bestiary Series. You'll be Kraken open some fun!
Like a well organized carry-on, this story is packed to capacity, holding everything needed for a quick, adrenaline-laced getaway. Kim McDougall thought of everything for your trip, including a big snack (Mason). You'll be riding first class with first rate bada$$, Kyra, and if you're nice, the big eyed squid can pass for a pillow.
Over all, a deeply satyrsfying prequel to The Valkyrie Bestiary Series. You'll be Kraken open some fun!
September 6, 2020
Interesting take on paranormal creatures.
This was a short introduction of the creatures and characters in a new series about a pest control company that moves creatures away from humans in a world with magic. The story was cute and I look forward to trying the series with the first book.
This was a short introduction of the creatures and characters in a new series about a pest control company that moves creatures away from humans in a world with magic. The story was cute and I look forward to trying the series with the first book.
February 22, 2021
Very short prequel to Dragons Don't Eat Meat that I read purely because of that cute squid on the cover. Turns out it is a pygmy Kraken!! Cuuuuuute. Main character is a Valkyrie who works in magical pest control. She lives with a banshee and has a budding romance with a gargoyle (he turns to stone during daylight which ngl sounds like a fantastic dating partner for introverts).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews