Badger Book

[Diane Hall]

I am trying to remember the name of a book I read in about the early 1980's. As I remember, it was set in England in contemporary times, and the book opens with the protagonist finding a dead badger in the middle of the road--only it is actually a magical object. I recall that Merlin was a character; possibly also some Norse gods. People, did I make this up? Any suggestions?

[Diane Hall]

Dear SF Friends:

I have found it! The book is called Expecting Someone Taller, by Tom Holt, published in 1987. We have a dying badger (actually a Frost-Giant); a magic ring (the Ring of the Nibelungen); and a slew of Norse Gods. (I was wrong about Merlin, but what the hell.) Thanks to all who gave my question a look. I am new to the sfsite, and I am delighted that so many people participate in the forums.

Best regards,
Diane Hall