Unnatural Magic by C.M. Waggoner

Penguin (Cornerstone). Paperback. NEW. Onna was known throughout her village for her exceptional talent in writing the parameters of spells. Despite being a woman, she could outperform any of the young men when it came to mastering the intricacies of magic. However, her skills were not appreciated by the arcane academy, which deemed it inappropriate to teach magic to women. Frustrated by the narrow-mindedness of her village, Onna made the bold decision to set sail for the city-state of Hexos in search of a more enlightened society. Tsira, on the other hand, had always felt like an outsider within her troll clan. The customs and traditions of her people never resonated with her, and she yearned for a sense of belonging. Determined to find her place in the world, Tsira left her clan behind and ventured into a human city in search of work. It was during a harsh winter that she stumbled upon a half-dead soldier buried in the snow. Despite the initial shock, Tsira's compassionate nature compelled her to help the wounded soldier, and an unexpected bond formed between them. Little did Onna and Tsira know that their paths would soon intertwine in a dangerous and mysterious way. A series of gruesome murders began to plague their city, and it became evident that trolls were being specifically targeted. As the death toll rose, fear and tension gripped the troll community, threatening to tear their homeland apart. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Onna and Tsira joined forces to uncover the truth behind the murders. They delved deep into the dark underbelly of the city, following a trail of clues that led them to a deadly conspiracy. It became clear that someone was orchestrating these killings, but their motives remained shrouded in secrecy. As Onna and Tsira dug deeper, they encountered resistance from those who wished to keep the truth hidden. Powerful individuals with their own agendas sought to silence them, but the two women refused to be deterred. Their determination and resourcefulness proved to be invaluable as they unraveled the intricate web of deceit that threatened their homeland. With each revelation, Onna and Tsira grew closer, their bond strengthening in the face of adversity. Together, they faced countless dangers and overcame numerous obstacles, relying on their unique skills and unwavering friendship. In the end, Onna and Tsira successfully exposed the culprits behind the troll murders, bringing justice to their community. Their bravery and resilience not only saved lives but also challenged the prevailing prejudices and stereotypes that had plagued their society. Onna and Tsira's journey was not just about solving a mystery; it was a testament to the power of unity and the strength of individuals who dared to defy societal norms. Their story became an inspiration to many, paving the way for a more inclusive and accepting future.