Fantasy author team Geoff Habiger and Coy Kissee are at it again with Myth of the Tenz River Troll, a prequel novella that leads into the Constable Inspector Lunaria Adventure book series. These word-slingers are well-known for their genre mashups, so if you enjoy detective tales and fantastical realms, then look no further.

This story takes place eight months before Wrath of the Fury Blade (book one) and introduces us to Reva, the main protagonist. Opening right in the action, we watch Reva and her partner Cas chase down a thief with reckless abandon. It’s a great launching point for her character, as Reva grows and matures throughout the books. In Myth of the Tenz River Troll, she’s still a sassy inspector eager to prove herself.

After regrouping at headquarters, Reva and Cas learn that another body has been discovered in the Tenz River. While many citizens blame the infamous Troll, others dismiss the notion as a myth and seek a more rational explanation. Reva and Cas are tasked to investigate, during which they get up close and personal with the grisly remains. It certainly seems like a vicious creature was to blame, but something about the attack doesn’t sit right with Reva.

And thus begins the hunt.

What unfolds is a good ol’ fashioned murder mystery with a surprising reveal. It’s a fun and engaging read that’s easy to consume in a single sitting. In addition, it neatly sets up the book series with a brief yet compelling backstory. Myth of the Tenz River Troll is a self-contained tale, so readers can start with it or come back any time for some added flavor. Once again, I tip my hat to the writing duo and look forward to the next adventure.