Do you ever have those moments when you crave something sweet? Something small, sugary, and satisfying that takes you away from the hectic pace of life for a few minutes of sheer bliss before facing the world again? I have. And similarly, I've occasionally craved a good short story as well. I don't always have time to dive into a lengthy novel but I want to read something to leave me fulfilled as a reader and a romantic. Lucky for me, Shiloh Walker's Every Last Fantasy came along at just the right time.

The book opens in 1840s England where we're given a snapshot of the happy life of Elaina--who's just accepted Jacob's whirlwind marriage proposal--when she meets with Baxter, the bitter man her family has chosen to replace her dead husband. Immediately after we glimpse Baxter, however, we're pulled to the present day and Vikky Morgan as she's going through a trunk left to her by her recently deceased Aunt Gloria. When she discovers an antique mirror among the treasures, she finds herself inexplicably drawn to it--so much so that she keeps it near the couch to check often.

Vikky manages to leave the mirror behind long enough to visit Santa Claus with her friends, who dare Vikky to indulge herself by whispering her naughty Christmas wish to Santa. Not one to pass on a little adventure in her otherwise boring life, Vikky lets Santa know in no uncertain terms that she'd like to be taken--and not to Disney World--by a man who knows how to treat women.

Of course, this is no ordinary Santa. Returning from his job as a photojournalist in Iraq, Erik Fortner is mildly surprised when Vikky--who still manages to turn him on despite his absence from their hometown--whispers her secret desire to him. And from the way she's stirred his heart and body back to life, it's the least he can do to try to grant her wish--in both this lifetime and the last--if they can manage to stay alive.

Ms. Walker does a fantastic job of weaving time travel and contemporary elements into a wonderful story I enjoyed from start to finish. Despite the short length, her characters and the storyline come alive, and I found myself intrigued until the very last scene. Tight writing and a fulfilling story touched with humor make Every Last Fantasy a definite keeper to read again.

If you have only a few minutes for reading but want a good, solid story, Every Last Fantasy should be on your list.

Reviewed By Beth Morrow
© February 2005