Midnight Caller

by Donna Jay, Diana Jayne

When a midnight visitor seeks refuge at her door, Trudy Baxter's quiet life in Whakatane, New Zealand, takes an unexpected turn. Though the encounter is brief, it leaves a lasting impression.

Trudy finds solace in her photography and work at the medical lab, but even as she settles into a budding romance with her charming new neighbour, Danielle, the memory of that haunting night continues to linger in the back of her mind.

As their relationship deepens, Trudy can't shake the feeling that beneath the surface, something isn't quite right.

In this small coastal town where secrets have a way of surfacing, Trudy must learn to trust her instincts and uncover the truth, even if it means risking the promise of newfound love.

Genres: Lesbian

ebook

Published April 1, 2025

About the author

In 2016, Donna Jay published her first sapphic romance. Since then, she has published eighteen more books, three of which made the number one spot in lesbian fiction.

Her stories feature resilient women, thought-provoking storylines, have plenty of heat, and are all set against the stunning backdrop of her home country, New Zealand.

She also writes sweet romances under the name Diana Jayne.

When she’s not writing, Donna can be found with her nose stuck in a book, or her backside glued to the sofa, binge-watching post-apocalyptic movies.

Sign up for her newsletter here - https://donnajayauthor.com/subscribe

Connect with Donna Jay

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

Email - donna.jay.books@hotmail.com

Reviews

[Netgyrl (Laura)]

DNF- no rating

I can see the plot line / uncertainty of this book appealing to some but it is just stressing me out. The neighbors are a mess and I would not touch either of them with a 10 ft pole. I am also not a fan of stories where the love interest changes halfway through. YMMV

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a great read. I loved the fact that the book is set in New Zealand that I have never visited but now I do at least get a taste of the country. The writing style was also special and that was appreciated since so different to build up the story first with Trudy’s POV describing her ambivalence between her neighbours Alana and Danielle and then switch to alternating POV between Trudy and Alana when the story unravels.

The story starts off with a bang when the distraught and beautiful neighbour Alana bangs on Trudy’s door all naked in the middle of the night. Trudy comforts her and walks her back home but really wonders what is going on between Alana and her fiancée Danielle. The neighbours break up and Trudy starts to get to know Danielle better and get her story and with time she starts falling for her. After a mishap during a hook-up (hilarious!) she starts wondering though and when she meets Alana again, she does not know what to believe. Perhaps Alana is the one Trudy is destined for after all, not Danielle.

The story was captivating and the writing great. The only thing I missed was a bit more romance and spice between Trudy and Alana. They are so great together, described with their dual POV, so getting more of that would have lifted the story even more.

I was fortunate to receive a free ARC from the author and leave a review voluntarily.

[Georgina L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is my new favorite Donna Jay/Diana Jayne book! This story grabs you right from the beginning and keeps you guessing throughout. The romance is surrounded by intrigue and lies, but love always wins!

I love the characters’ dynamics and how they revolve around each other and just when you think you have it figured out…there’s a twist!

This book has everything in it …intrigue, some very humorous parts, some spicy love scenes and a lot of drama. And of course, one of my favorite things, Donna’s descriptions of New Zealand! The sheer beauty she describes makes me want to book a flight! I love this book and think it is a must read for anyone who wants to start reading Donna’s books or those of us who have been with her for years!

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Midnight Caller and am leaving an honest review. I honestly love this book!

[Jen Betchie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Midnight Caller is a twisty turny story that will keep you hooked and guessing throughout! I was all over the place while reading this. Do I like this character? Do I hate them? Who’s lying? Am I lying? I love them together! No wait, she sucks. Does she suck? Yeah I think she sucks…. But wait, what about her? Yep, this is it!
This book, had strong character building, a good story line, healing, growing, healthy boundaries and a happy ending! All things I love to see!

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Jackie D · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the jump I was hooked!! It’s been a minute since a book has me fully pulled in from the first page. Trudy was an amazing character strong, caring, and compassionate. Jolene is the best kind of side character comic relief and a great best friend. A suspenseful romance that will have you second guessing the entire time. I wish it were longer if only because I hate to see the end of story I loved.


I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Donna]

Available now - https://mybook.to/MidnightCaller

[Tempe Luvs Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight caller is a love story that had more than its share of who to believe moments. Why would a naked stranger knock on a neighbor’s door at midnight? What could it mean? Danger? Someone in need? After Trudy was awakened that night and in the days to come, she heard so many different versions of lies, deception and confessions that were followed by repeated bad actions that she had to ask herself what was going on.

Soon Trudy found herself mixed up in the constant confusion between her new neighbors, Danielle and Alana, two women who were pointing fingers, blaming the other. She was caught in the middle and possibly falling in love, but who was it that she was beginning to love, and who was actually telling her the truth? Who was she to believe? Who will YOU believe?

Yes, it could be confusing, but this was another enjoyable Donna Jay/Diana Jayne story with some twists that will have you compelled and wanting more. There’s also some drama, some hot love scenes, humor, and, as always, we get another taste of the beauty of New Zealand and the romantic time spent in places such as the Whakatāne Gardens.

I really enjoyed this book and the time spent with the many wonderful characters and the different relationships. When you read this you may think you know who to believe, but don’t be too sure!

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love a (dark-ish?) slow-burn romance with complex characters and a plot that keeps you hooked. This is a definite recommend! From the first line, I was questioning how it was all gone play out and the way Donna gets readers to navigate the story is so well done, from the pacing, MC’s development and growth to the side characters.

The story touches on some serious themes, regarding the relationship between Danielle & Alana. And I felt for Trudy trying to navigate it all.

[Suzi Vilkman (Hautaniemi) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Different. Good different.

What a journey this book is! A beautiful romance wrapped in mystery, and set in the amazing scenery of New Zealand. The baddies were really bad, and seriously out to destroy the newly discovered happiness of the main characters. But in the end, love conquers all.

Perhaps in the future, our happy couple may have to face their opponents again.

[Marian · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an interesting story. Sometimes a bit creepy but that makes the story very good.
The surroundings of NZ are well written and you get the feeling you want to be there.

[Red Dragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an intriguing story starting with a midnight caller to Trudy followed by attractions, confusion and lies!!
The story of Trudy, Alana and Danielle is a romance with a difference!
It’s one that keeps the pages turning due to the emotions, thoughts and questions that unfold as the story progresses.
A little bit ‘dark’, funny and romantic all rolled into one. A great read. And as usual some lovely descriptions of New Zealand.
Thanks to DJ for the ARC - this is my honest opinion of the book.

[Jes · Rating 2 out of 5]

First half: SO good. I loved the confusion! The mind games and not knowing who was lying or if everyone was actually crazy

Second half: lowkey disappointing. Once the real villain was made clear everything else just became boring. I had to force myself to finish the book

[Maria S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the first time I knew what I was signing up for, and yet I was surprised in the end. "Midnight Caller" is not just a book, it's a journey, one of those that reminds you of a boat rocking in the ocean, not knowing where the waves will take you... It's a captivating love story that doesn't lack realism of life, giving a glimpse at the sensitive topics like cohabitation with an abusive partner, alcohol addiction and its consequences. I devoured its body of words greedily in two days - my heart was sometimes contracting with fear and pain, sometimes filling with hope and faith... There was disgust, and pity, and empathy... And love. Love for all of the characters, just different kind for some. When you've walked in those shoes, it's inevitable that a trigger will be activated - phantom pain of an old wound pulling you back in memory, but it wasn't scary for me and didn't make me stop reading, as there is no direct description of a heavy collision. Quite the opposite - it was eyes opening. Donna Jay/Diana Jayne did something incredible, because her work can give a lot depending on the eyes that read it. "Midnight Caller" can be a deep read for a break from boring reality for some, but it is also a textbook, a survival manual for betrayed and abused hearts. Mine, the eyes of someone who has tasted the same bitterness that Alana and Trudy had to swallow, saw promise that healing after heartbreak is possible, that happiness after a "broken" partner is possible and that love is stronger than anything, if you don't let the pain of the past define you and steal your future. Without overstating it, the story hints at the importance of knowing when and how to walk away from an unhappy reality that endangers you and give the new one a chance to heal the wounds.

All characters are masterfully developed, the language is close to the heart, the dynamics is perfectly managed. The spice is delicious and delicate. Do I recommend it? Oh YESSSS!!! I won't be retelling the blurb, you can read this yourselves, but I encourage you to step on that boat and let it's sway take you on a journey.

I want to thank the author for the ARC and the chance to see through her eyes. I am giving this review honestly and voluntarily.

[Nadine Stamminger · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Midnight Caller" is a suspenseful lesbian romance it combines emotional depth with a touch of tention. The story centers on Trudy Baxter, a quiet, compassionate woman who lives alone with her cat and enjoys peace and quiet after a toxic relationship. However, this peace is abruptly interrupted one night when a panicked, naked woman knocks on her door in the middle of the night. This woman is Alana, Trudy's new neighbor, who is apparently fleeing something—or someone. Trudy takes her in, offers her shelter, and tries to figure out what is behind Alana's panicked escape. It quickly becomes clear that Alana is in a troubled relationship, but the details remain vague for a long time. Alana seems traumatized, barely speaks, and although she appears grateful to Trudy, she soon retreats to her house—to her fiancée, Danielle. Driven by care, curiosity, and a spark of affection, Trudy begins to observe Alana and Danielle from afar. It develops A complicated dynamic develops: Trudy wants to help, but also does not want to be drawn into a relationship that isn't hers. At the same time, she feels a growing connection with Alana—a connection that goes beyond compassion. In the beginning as a reader, I cannot really place Danielle, Alanas partner. Initially I suspected of being Alana's oppressor. While reading I got more and more confused about the dynamic between Alana and Danielle. The more you read the more the relationships between the three women—Trudy, Alana, and Danielle—you realize this relationship is riddled with secrets, unspoken truths, and a troubled past. In addition to the dramatic elements, the book contains many everyday scenes that illuminate Trudy's life with friends, her job and her connection to nature and photography. Which I also loved and made me feel more connected to her and her feelings for Alana and Danielle.

At the end, the secrets are deep and none of the other woman seams to actually be what Trudy first thought about them. Its very well written and super interesting. The story itself was suprising and I could not really guess what happen next, which I always like. Its ends hopefull without beeing overly picture perfect, happy end! I loved that a lot!

[Fiona Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a book! Midnight Caller has a little bit of everything and proved to be quite the ride. The first half of the book was very much a roller coaster of trying to work out who was to be believed. Donna Jay did a masterful job of showing how narcissism and manipulation can be used to control the narrative and I completely understood Trudy's confusion and doubts.

The story begins with Trudy receiving an unexpected midnight visitor in the form of a naked and terrified neighbour, Alana, begging for help. After Alana calms down and eventually returns home, Trudy is left with so many questions. It appeared that Alana's relationship with her fiancée Danielle was not all roses. Both Alana and Danielle accuse each other of trying to manipulate the narrative behind the breakdown of their relationship and Trudy soon finds herself caught in the middle and unable to work out who is telling the truth. The question is whether Trudy can learn to trust her instincts and uncover the truth before she finds herself sucked into a potentially dangerous relationship.

I loved the way the author skilfully develops the characters and manages to leave the reader as confused as Trudy, particularly in the first half of the book. In some ways this made it difficult reading for me as I love to feel like I have a sense of where things are heading but, in the end, it all added to the depth of the story. The second half of the book was easier to read as Trudy settled into her new budding relationship.

I also enjoyed the range of side characters who helped to bring the story to life, particularly Trudy's friends and family and the jigsaw puzzle nature of the mystery that couldn't be put together initially due to different characters holding different pieces of the puzzle but not thinking to mention what they knew because they didn't have the rest of the picture.

I am grateful to Donna Jay for providing me with an ARC copy of Midnight Caller and am leaving this review volutarily.

[Betsy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, what a ride! This book had so many twists and turns that at times, I even had trouble discerning the truth. It highlighted the dramatic differences between a healthy relationship and a toxic one, showcasing how someone can manipulate and control a situation. The psychological abuse and narcissistic behavior depicted in the story really made me question reality. I felt sympathy for Trudy, who seemed to be constantly trying to figure out what was happening throughout most of the book.

Despite the serious themes, it was a sweet romance that touched on the impact of an abusive relationship on both individuals and their loved ones. I appreciated how the author used the first part of the book to illustrate how easily someone can be psychologically harmed and manipulated. In contrast, the second part highlighted how a relationship can be honest, caring, and loving without the constant threat of emotional landmines.

It's astonishing how easily one can get drawn into a toxic relationship and how challenging it is to recognize red flags, especially when you're trying to give someone the benefit of the doubt or when others vouch for their character. The author did a commendable job of presenting both sides of the coin—demonstrating how good communication and trust can foster a healthy relationship.

However, I did wish for more resolution regarding Danielle. I found it hard to believe that someone like her would give up so easily. I felt there could have been more conflict, and I wanted the author to explore that further. The last half of the book was somewhat disappointing to me in that regard. I just can't wrap my head around the idea that she would simply walk away without trying to resolve things.

Overall, it truly was a sweet romance, and I would recommend the book.


I received an arc

[AC · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fabulous story with great character development! I love when the author shows me, the reader, a deeper sense of who the characters are—including their hobbies, their friends, family relationships, their professions. There is a difference between telling me and showing me, and Diana Jayne/Donna Jay is exceptional at showing me who the characters are. She portrays strong women supported by those around them, whether family or friends—or friends who are family.
The story concept is fabulous; she had me wondering from the very beginning scene. The author skillfully developed the characters scene by scene, peeling back the edges bit by bit. She totally surprised me. And the ending scene is just lovely and brilliant—nope, I never give spoilers. I feel it is going to be my favourite epilogue scene forever.
Every time I read one of her stories, I want to visit New Zealand. I find myself researching some of the sites she mentions because they sound so beautiful. The fact that she always includes something which relates to the Māori heritage of her country is something I look forward to and find enticing in her stories, and I relish learning something new with each one.
The pace of the story was well done; the dialogue is crisp, witty and well-balanced with the narrative. I will admit, I love me a good pun, and Diana Jayne/Donna Jay doesn’t disappoint me there either. Don’t forget the spice, we can always count on this author to bring it. Again, no spoilers! It was so much fun reading this. The MCs find their way home, but it certainly isn’t the easy way. Jayne’s timing with the twists in the story was wonderfully done. I honestly didn’t want this to end. Just sayin’.

[Nia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it when a story starts with a bang.
You're immediately drawn in; no slow build-up, no tentative approach.
Even if the encounter has dark reasons and you wonder what happened, you find out much later than you think.
I won't give anything away except that appearances can often be deceiving.
That keeps it really exciting, and I often wondered if things are really as they are presented...
Trudy meets Alana in a truly unusual way and is nevertheless enormously fascinated and also disappointed.
Alana is new in the neighborhood and, unfortunately, engaged. But what's the deal with this fiancée?
She'll find out and be surprised more than once.
It was something refreshingly different, and the combination of Donna Jay and Diana Jayne is extremely successful.
It gets hot, but also remains enormously romantic, and the intimacies are portrayed sensitively. I really loved that.
Thanks so much to Donna Jay and Diana Jayne for the ARC.

[Valtier · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this is my least favorite Donna Jay book I have read so far. I don't mind topics like domestic violence, alcoholism etc.
I just couldn't get into this book as I normally would.
You have Danielle and Alana; the problematic neighbors and Trudy. I don't get how Trudy would date both these women after her first encounter with Alana. Trudy went from lusting after Alana to dating Danielle to breaking that off because she finds out Danielle sort of lied about everything or spun the truth in a way favorable for her. After that, another encounter with Alana turns into dating her. Resolving into an HEA.
Most of the time, Donna's books are filled with detailed spicy scenes, but this one is kinda light on it.

Overall a well written book, but like someone else wrote in the review, I wouldn't have touched these people with a 10ft. pole.

[Henriette · Rating 4 out of 5]

suspense and f/f romance
Midnight Caller starts with a big bang and leaves the reader for quite some time in suspense about what is real and what is deception. I loved how Donna Jay - very skillfully - had us readers stand in Trudy‘s shoes and participate in the doubt and perceptions of one of the main characters. I loved to follow the unfolding story and the twisty romance. The resolution was satisfying. Cheers for strong women.
This is a well-written and well-paced story with a good pinch of small-town life. Donna has added spice and a good New Zealand setting which I both enjoyed.

I received an ARC. The review is left voluntarily.

[Justice Wetter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Caller is a book I DEVOURED from beginning to end! At first you except it to simply be a story between neighbors and their growing relationship but each twist and turn shows you there is more than meets the eye. Alana and Danielle’s relationship to Trudy and Danielle’s to then Alana and Trudy’s really makes you think on the perspective of others and how someone can change your view point based on falsehoods. Alana and Trudy just fit so perfectly together it was hard to image them not together! I’m rooting for a follow up just to check in on them!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is full of secrets, lies and twists that keep the reader from really knowing the truth until nearly the ending. It grabs you from the first chapter when Alana shows up at Trudy's door at midnight seeking help. What transpires throughout the story when Danielle is added to the mix is almost unbelievable. Who would you believe???

I really enjoyed the writing. One of my favorite lines was "love is a terrible thing to hate." The story was also filled with a beautiful, descriptive setting, very interesting characters, great plot development, and a wonderful epilogue. Recommend!

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a really good rainy day read. In the opening pages Trudy and Alana meet through very stressful circumstances. The story evolves from that moment and will keep you reading page after page.
The characters are very interesting individuals and there are several moments that will make you chuckle. Donna has a very good sense of humor and it shows in her work.
This is a journey to love and the characters finally find their HEA on the end.

[Shannon Luchies · Rating 3 out of 5]

Startled awake Trudy finds a naked woman on her doorstep. Alana (apparently) is being abused by her fiance, Danielle, but seems unwilling to take legal steps. Trudy doesn't like it, but is unsure what to do... complicating things is she keeps running into them.

Then Alana suddenly leaves, and Dani tries to be friendlier...

Bit of a mystery, but drama, decent writing but didn't grab me. I also thought at one point it was a murder mystery, but nope. 3 out of 5.

[Tammy Carney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good book

This book takes you through two different types of relationships. One that is manipulated where words are changed or not completely mention so that they change they meaning to help their actions. The second is that of commutation and understanding which leads to pure love. Was waiting for more involvement from the other character but glad it turned out the way it did. A great book to read.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bozo! lol

This is a weirdly interesting book, probably not to everyone’s taste though.
At the beginning I was like, oh…that’s certainly a unique way to meet someone. Then the twist came and thought…ok, what’s happening here…when the lies and manipulation started I became worried for Trudy. Enter yet another twist and I didn’t know what was going to happen next…
Saying all that, I did enjoy the story. The twists and turns certainly kept me on my toes.

[Laz the Sailor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read most of DJ's books, and this one is different, in a good way. A strong 4+.

First off, there is a defined bad guy. Not just inflexible parents or a bigoted boss, but a truly bad person.

Second, there are several spicy scenes, especially the first seduction.

Third, there are male characters. Husbands and colleagues and friends to round out the story. Men are often ignored in sapphic tales, and I appreciated the balance here.

[Cameo Burton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book begins on the darker side of a relationship that you hope gets better. I like how the story doesn’t linger on the negative aspects and brings in a balance with happier moments found in Trudy’s photography or with her family and friends. As the lies and deception start coming out it is good to see the characters standing up for themselves, and that happiness and joy can still be found.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great combination of dark mystery and romance! I devoured this in one day. I can definitely see myself reading this one again.

P.S.
This book cover really drew me in and is so apropos to the story.

[Coldwonderland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read another book by this author and didn't like it very much, but this one is perfect!

It's not a traditional love story, and once you start reading, you can't stop.

I'll try to read her other books