Willow Tate loves her work as a graphic novelist, despite the low pay and disapproval of her mother. But she's never really believed the fantasies she spins until one day, after creating a giant red troll named Fafhrd, she sees him clomping down her street like a playful three-year-old among toy cars. But when no one reports seeing a hulking giant anywhere (although the damage left behind by something is very real -- some witnesses think it was a runaway trolley), Willow almost talks herself out of what she saw. Until it happens again.

Then the sexy and mysterious Agent Grant shows up, claiming to be from the DUE (Department of Unexplained Events). He not only believes Willow has seen the troll but confirms her fears that she was, in fact, involved in it becoming real. Turns out Willow is from a family that possesses some very unique and ancient talents. But Agent Grant explains that Willow didn't act alone, and that there is an evil genius out there, meticulously putting together a plot to destroy the world as we know it. It's a story she might have dreamed up for a comic book -- except the consequences are very real.

I never really got into this book, despite the interesting premise. There were a lot of long passages of exposition and description but not a lot of action, other than glimpses of Fafhrd. Some of the events seemed a bit contrived, the wackiness a little forced at times, and I had trouble warming up to Willow, who was a little too passive for my taste. Nevertheless, it's a clever idea with some fun moments, and a nice change from the violence and angst in many urban fantasies. If you're a UF fan looking for a lighter read or you're wondering where to find a good troll story, you'll probably enjoy this book.