Logan has just moved house and is clearing the attic of the previous owners' junk – only so he can have somewhere to put his own unused belongings. Whilst going through boxes, he comes across a bottle that may be something of value. A bit of spit and polish later, he thinks he is hallucinating, for a gorgeous woman stands before him in semi-transparent clothing claiming to be a genie, able to grant him three wishes. But is she real? And if so, what would his wishes be?

Say The Magic Words is a rather delightful short story that ranks with the best of the shorts I have read. Enough information is provided about the characters to make them intriguing, but it is the physical side of the tale that makes this novella a winner, hands down. The characters' sexual encounter is described, indeed takes up much of the tale. But it is not overly graphic, or offensive. The lovemaking is rather traditional and takes place as though part of a fantasy. The plot flows smoothly, and though I would have liked more character development, Say The Magic Words is an enjoyable read. This has been my first opportunity to read a tale by Marianne LaCroix, but this short tale has been well crafted, so I will be looking around for more.

Reviewed by: Elizabeth