On the HahaFiction shelf
The Satsuma Complex
Gary Thorn · Book 1 · 2022
Audiobook available · 6 hr 52 min
Gary Thorn's best clue to a woman's identity is the book she was reading in the pub. The London legal assistant calls her Satsuma and wants to see her again. Then his drinking companion Brendan goes missing, giving Gary a more urgent reason to find her.
From the publisher’s blurb
“through the estates and pie shops of South London”Read the full description at Simon & Schuster UK, book description
Paid link · We earn commissions from qualifying Amazon purchases. Affiliate disclosure
What makes it funny?
Gary has an unusual confidant: a squirrel whose side of the conversation he supplies himself. His worries get an answering voice, and the exchanges make room for silliness while he tries to work out what to do about a crime.
The comedy at work
The mystery pushes a hesitant man into situations far outside his small routine. Much of the humor comes from his running commentary on that discomfort; his imaginary conversations let him argue with himself without turning into a confident detective.
Try this if…
There is room here for readers who like a mystery to spend time with its nervous protagonist. Dry British humor and surreal conversations share space with friendship and loneliness, with Gary's vulnerability carrying much of the appeal.
Good to know
The same novel is published as The Clementine Complex in some editions. Domestic abuse gives the story darker material than its squirrel conversations might suggest. Bob Mortimer and Sally Phillips perform the audiobook.
A few distinguishing details
- A missing woman's book provides her nickname
- An anxious legal assistant drawn into a crime
- Imaginary conversations with a squirrel
More funny amateur sleuth
Sources & further reading
- Publisher synopsis and edition
Publisher
- Michael Thal review
Review
- Portable Magic review
Review
- Library audiobook edition
Library catalog
- Series and alternate title
Book information
Something we should correct? Let us know.