Denise Little, Mystery Date

Mystery Date

Denise Little (editor)

DAW, Feb 2008, $7.99

ISBN: 9780756404697

These twenty short stories focus on a first date with either one or both partners coming from a fantasy DNA or the location somewhat out of the mundane realm. Each of the tales is lighthearted amusing fun with no clinkers. However, there is apparently a limitation to how far one can go one a first date so about half way through the contributions begin to have a d j vu feel to them. This reviewer enjoyed all, but especially learning what to expect while dating a shapeshifter ('Choop' by Nancy Springer) and Jean Rabe's 'Anne of the One Gable' whose double blind date won an Oscar for the Philadelphia Story. The writers seem to have fun with the theme and the audience will appreciate their efforts; however to truly savor suggest spreading the read over a few weeks so each date remains fresh.

Harriet Klausner