Ash: Believes The Impossible By Kim Fielding
Set in contemporary Portland, Oregon, the story follows , a single, cash-strapped man exhausted by his emotionally taxing job at a nonprofit. Ash's mundane life takes a magical turn when anonymous, handmade gifts—like a basket of pinecones and a scarf in Hanukkah colors—start appearing on his doorstep.
Portland serves as a character itself, with local references that add to the story's whimsical yet grounded mood. Critical Reception Ash Believes the Impossible by Kim Fielding
The mysterious gift-giver is revealed to be , a beautiful young man who is actually a fairy living in the wooded wonderland behind Ash's duplex. As their romance blossoms, Ash must learn to embrace the "impossible" as the harsh realities of the human world—including a landlord's medical crisis—threaten the bridge between their two realms. Key Themes & Elements Set in contemporary Portland, Oregon, the story follows
In line with Fielding’s usual style, Ash is a "genuinely good person" who is flawed and struggling with real-world burdens like medical coverage and financial strain. Critical Reception The mysterious gift-giver is revealed to
The book features heavy references to Alice in Wonderland , providing a fast-paced shorthand for Ash's journey into a hidden world.
Reviewers frequently describe the novella as a "delightful mix of mundane and fairyland". It is praised for its and for addressing serious contemporary issues like the lack of medical coverage within a sweet, fairy-tale romance.
Though it features Hanukkah elements, the story explores broader themes of joy, family, and finding warmth during the winter solstice.