‘Night and Day’ is set in a truly different world from the reality of 2016 – or even the “real reality” of 1933 - and the language used in the telling, as well as the somewhat unusual events that occur, clearly reflect that. The other element that jumped right out at me was the fact that this story is told in second person- highly unusual but very effective for a setting somewhere between fantasy and paranormal. That alone pulled me right in, but so did Nate’s desperate need for a job and a place to be, as well as the mystery around the Starlight Lounge. If you’re looking for a “realistic historical” – this is not it. If you’re willing to suspend your disbelief, and to open your mind to an alternate reality full of interesting possibilities, then walk right in… you won’t be disappointed.

Nate is desperate. The Great Depression was not a fun time for most people, and Nate is at the bottom of the totem pole. He’s been dishonorably discharged because he is gay, has no home and no money, but someone named Harry recommended he try to apply as a singer at the Starlight Express. The owner, Rick, is right there and willing to listen to Nate audition. The first hint that something strange is going on is when he exclaims “Zeus fuck!” – and I am not going to say more so I don’t spoil the effect of the story.

In very lyrical language, one mystery is heaped on another as Nate delves into a world he never would have suspected exists. There are gangsters, secrets, friendships and tests of loyalty, and a whole cast of interesting, if slightly mad, secondary characters. But above all, Nate discovers that he doesn’t have to be alone any longer and as strange as the solution may be, it is all he ever wanted.

If you like unusual stories of the more than fantastical kind, if a lonely man finding miraculous and unexpected company is your thing, and if you’re looking for a read full of mystery, quirkiness, and not a shred of reality in sight, then you will probably like this novella. It boggled my mind, made me laugh, and satisfied my inner romantic.


NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews. ( )