# Nine Goblins

By T. Kingfisher

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/nine-goblins-3f3d92f5/

Sergeant Nessilka's goblins have been stranded behind enemy lines, and getting home is more pressing than winning any glory. Keeping the troop together is a job in itself. An elven veterinarian may be their most useful ally.

## What makes it funny?

Nessilka cannot remember the beginning of her battles. She reasons that remembering might discourage her from charging into another one, then starts to suspect that parts of her brain are taking orders from Goblin High Command. Simply discovering that she is still alive counts as good news.

### The comedy at work

Military grandeur gets little respect from soldiers concentrating on survival. Nessilka's practical competence has to accommodate a grumbling troop, including a goblin whose teddy bear appears to do the thinking.

### Try this if…

A short fantasy for readers who enjoy an exasperated leader taking care of troublesome companions. The elven animal healer adds a different kind of practical work to the goblins' effort to get home.

### Good to know

The light voice accompanies wartime violence and disturbing magic, including people being disintegrated. Powder & Page notes darker moments beneath the comedy.

## What to expect

- Genre: Fantasy
- Kind of humor: Dark comedy · Dry wit · Satire
- Format: Novella
- Published: 2013

## A few distinguishing details

- A goblin sergeant trying to get her troop home

## Sources & further reading

- Author commentary: [Author](https://redwombatstudio.com/fantasy)
- Review: [Powder & Page review](https://powderandpage.com/2026/01/27/nine-goblins-by-t-kingfisher-review)
- Book information: [Original ebook and short excerpt](https://books.apple.com/us/book/nine-goblins/id753254370)