Midnight Kiss Countdown: A Short Romance

by C.K. Darling

Love doesn't end with separation—sometimes it just needs one more Christmas to find its way home.Beth Brockington thought she had everything figured out—until her marriage fell apart just before the holidays. Now she’s struggling twin five-year-olds, a bustling family store, and trying not to think about the empty space where her husband used to be. The last thing she expects is to feel her heart skip when Brett shows up looking like the man she fell in love with instead of the stranger they’d both become.

Brett knows they lost their way somewhere between building a life and living it. When he sees Beth across the Town Square laughing with Callie, like she used to laugh with him, he realizes what they had is worth fighting for; but some bridges take more than good intentions to rebuild.

With nosy neighbors, well-meaning matchmakers, and a town that practically runs on Christmas magic, Beth and Brett must decide if their love can be rekindled—or if some hearts stay closed for good.

Midnight Kiss Countdown is Book 2 in The Holiday Matchmaker Short Romance Series—an interconnected/standalone short romance perfect for readers who believe chancesSeparated couples reconnectingChristmas reconciliationSmall-town matchmaking schemesFamily-centered holiday magicSpice 2–3 🌶️
Sweet heat. Real emotion. Swoon-worthy redemption.

The perfect short (~ 2 hour) holiday read for anyone who knows that love is worth the work—and that sometimes, the best resolutions are made with a kiss.

Genres: Audiobook

132 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2025

About the author

C.K. Darling writes bite-sized romances with big heart, plenty of heat, and a whole lotta Southern sass. Her spicy short stories—each clocking in around two hours—are perfect for readers and audiobook lovers who want all the swoon without the slog. Set in the small (but never dull) town of Peachwood Grove, Georgia, C.K.’s romances can be enjoyed as standalones or gobbled up in a bingeable series—like your favorite potato chips… you can’t read just one.

Whether you're craving a second-chance love, enemies turned sweethearts, or a grumpy hero who melts like buttercream, she’s got just the treat. These stories are also the perfect palate cleanser between heavier reads—quick, satisfying, and sure to leave you smiling (and maybe a little flushed).

Up next? The Holiday Matchmaker Series—three festive love stories guaranteed to jingle your bells—launching November 7, 2025. So go ahead, get cozy, grab a snack (or a whole charcuterie board), and fall in love one short story at a time. When she’s not spinning steamy small-town tales, C.K. is sipping sweet tea, crafting up a glitter tornado, or wrangling pets and plot twists in equal measure.

Reviews

[Rose Dinsmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m always ready to dive back in to Peachwood Grove… This couple is already married, but they are struggling with real life problems… Their sweet twins complicate their struggles because they don’t want them affected by their unhappiness. This journey is genuine and heartfelt. CK does it again! I so look forward to each new story as it comes out…

4 1/2 💜’s.

Closer to 5 than 4.

[Patricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is absolutely super cute.
I love the way that Mrs. Havers puts her nose in everything she's got the magic touch

[Tropes_and_Taboo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Midnight Kiss Countdown (Holiday Matchmaker Series #2) by C.K. Darling
⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️
Interconnected Standalone * Second Chance * Separated Couple Reconnecting * Family Centered * Xmas Pageant * Workaholic MMC * Small Town Meddling * Sweet & Spicy * 100 pages * 🎧2h43

This is book 2 in the 'Holiday Matchmaker' Short Romance Series. It’s an interconnected standalone where the town, and especially the town’s unofficial matchmaker Mrs. Haters, loves to meddle in everyone’s business to create the “perfect” couples.

The audiobook, narrated by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap, was beautifully done. They really captured the emotions, heartbreak, and lingering longing between the characters.

While the first book focused more on the town’s community events and Mrs. Haters orchestrating everything, this one takes a different approach. It brings us a separated couple with two kids and follows their journey as they work through the issues that fractured their marriage. It’s all about growth, reflection, and rediscovering what truly matters.

The story is deeply family-focused and absolutely heart-tugging. You can feel the love still there between them, what they need is simply a shift in priorities to find their way back to each other and rekindle their love.

Since this is book two, and the first (Holiday Hearts Unwrapped) was one I reviewed a while back, I’m thrilled to say I’ve loved both! Especially the wonderfully devious Mrs. Haters. I can’t wait to see what chaos she stirs up for the next couple in book 3.

[Amour.Rebelle.Reads (Bran.d) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This little Christmas short completely stole my heart. I’m such a sucker for a sweet second-chance romance, and Beth and Brett delivered everything I love about that trope. They’re separated, life has worn them down, and yet the minute they’re in the same space again, you can feel that spark they’ve never really lost. Add in twin five-year-olds, a family store, and a small town that basically runs on holiday magic, and I was hooked.

For a short story, it has so much emotional depth. You really feel Beth’s exhaustion and Brett’s regret—and that slow, hopeful pull back toward each other. It’s tender, it’s cozy, and it hits in all the places a Christmas romance should.

The narration is what really sold it for me🥰
Andi Eloise brings Beth’s heart and vulnerability to life so beautifully, and Ryan Lee Dunlap gives Brett that warm, steady presence that makes you absolutely root for him. Together, they make the story feel intimate and real.

If you love couples finding their way back, holiday glow-ups, and a little small-town matchmaking, this is such a perfect quick listen. Cozy, emotional, and full of Christmas magic. I loved it. 🎄💫

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Kiss Countdown
The Holiday Matchmaker 2
by CK Darling
Narrated by Andi Eloise, Ryan Lee Dunlap

What a great story! This heartwarming matchmaker story has so much truth to it. Married with children, working to get ahead, and things begin to fall apart. That is what Brett found out. Working nonstop to support his family has pulled him from what is important. His wife Beth has had it, and has asked for some time apart. Will the local matchmaker be able to help salvage this relationship? CK Darling has give a glimpse into real life, how things get a bit out of hand and the next thing you know it's a mess. But she gives hope and finds how true love never dies. Loved this listen, from the twins to the ice skating. Fabulous.

Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap give an emotionally driven performance for this one. They bring out all the stops, from the pain to the passion and make this holiday story come alive. I loved this touching story.

[Clary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook version of this story and it was so sweet. Beth and Brett's marriage is in trouble and I felt for them both. I know how hard it is to get ahead in this world and how easy it is to take what you have for granted in the name of financial security. But I also felt how painful it was for Beth to feel like she was doing life and family basically alone. Even though the story is very short the character development is so well written. You can see their progression not only as individuals but as a couple. Then you add Mrs. Havers and her matchmaking, meddling abilities and it brought some great humor to the story. The narration by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap was excellent. Two amazing narrators. Definitely recommend if you like sweet holiday romances, second chances, marriage in trouble, sprinkled with a bit of humor and spice.

[AW · Rating 5 out of 5]

A novella of heartfelt depth for the holidays that joins warmth and realism together. The story of separation and lingering love between Brett and Beth is both tender and relatable, especially since Beth is a single mom. The duet narration by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap elevates the emotions further, and the listening experience becomes even more engaging. Centered around second chances, small-town matchmaking, and Christmas reconciliation, this is one family-centered tale that captures the magic of the season without ever losing sight of the challenges that make love worth fighting for.

Huge thanks to High Gravity Audiobooks and C.K. Darling for the ALC copy!

[Summer · Rating 4 out of 5]

~Alc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶

~Midnight Kiss Countdown~The Holiday Matchmaker Series Book 2~C.K. Darling~

~Duet Narration~Andi Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap~

~Production~High Gravity Audiobooks~

"But maybe missing eachother is where we start."

♡This novella was a super sweet second-chance romance & I loved it!Brett & Beth found themselves running through life like a machine & the spark they once shared burnt out. They were stuck in a cycle of regret & exhaustion that didn't seem to have an end in sight. This small novella was packed with plot, so many emotions, & an an hea wrapped in a nice bow!

The duet narration for this audiobook was great! Andi & Ryan both did a phenomenal job bringing Beth & Brett to life!

If you love a good small-town second chance romance that is perfect for the Christmas season look no further!♡

~As Always Happy Reading~

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

So excited for another ALC from C.K. Darling whose short stories warm my heart. I’ll admit I was skeptical due to some triggers with the themes but the conflicts were handled gently and the characters stole my heart. I’m so glad I gave this beautiful story a chance. What a beautiful addition to your seasonal reading.

[Jennifer Wycech · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holiday romance
Marriage in trouble

Duet narration - Andi Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap
These two are fabulous narrators. Accents and emotions performed perfectly.

This is a short holiday novella about a married couple that find themselves separated because he is a workaholic and she is tired of it.

Spending a little time apart and he realizes that he wants to be the kind of husband she and their kids deserve. He has to earn it tho.

I loved the ending and how warm this one made my heart. So sweet and relatable to real life situations.

[Hilary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good 2nd chance! This was a great redemption story and fantastic audio!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this one. Great short story about love that isn’t over yet.

[Tiffany Segal · Rating 4 out of 5]

ALC Review for CK Darling

Midnight Kiss is such a sweet story about a married couple who have made the difficult decision to separate. It is clear that they have deep love for one another but they can't continue on as things have been going. I love a great second chance romance storyline.

Mrs. Havers has put her matchmaker hat back on and is ready to sign this adorable couple back together. Beth and Brett are struggling with balancing a successful career and twin boys. Beth realizes she has to trust Brett to commit to the changes is making. Brett understands that he needs to be a better communicator is all areas of this life.

This is a short and sweet, second chance romance. Andi Eloise and Ryan Dunlap do an excellent job or portraying Beth and Brett.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a SAHM who feels unseen most of the time this book hit home so hard. I truly could relate to Beth. I am not usually a reader of the marriage in trouble trope
By C.K. Darling did it well in this holiday novella- A short and sweet story of redemption and restoration of the marriage between Beth and Brett❤️

[Kristen Stier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novella hit really close to home! Esp being with your partner they forget about everyday and you start to live in the room mate phase. For anybody struggling with priorities, or even just being stuck in the roommate phase I would highly suggest they read this novella!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I so enjoyed reading this book! This book reminded me of a cozy Christmas movie. Where you had Mrs Miracle helping play matchmaker. I loved the story of Brett and Beth. How they chose to change their ways to stay a family.

[Nisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m usually really picky with second-chance romances because they can either feel deeply emotional or painfully frustrating… but this one? Adorable. Absolutely adorable 😭❤️

This story had so many soft little moments that made me completely melt. Watching him actively try to win Elizabeth back by recreating meaningful moments from their relationship felt sweet instead of overdone, and I loved seeing the effort he put into rebuilding trust instead of expecting everything to magically fix itself overnight.

The cooking class scenes were some of my favorites because the banter was SO cute 😂 And Chef Marco… sir, respectfully, you were doing entirely too much. I was cracking up.

The romance itself felt like a low-key slow burn second chance done right. There’s tension, vulnerability, family moments, emotional conversations, and genuine growth that made the relationship feel believable. One thing I especially appreciated was seeing the characters actually communicate and make intentional choices for their family and future together.

Also, Poppy was PRECIOUS and my FAV hands down 🥹 She brought so much heart to the story as always and honestly made several scenes even more emotional for me.

This was such a cozy, heartfelt read that left me smiling by the end. My only complaint is that I genuinely wanted more time with these characters because I wasn’t ready to leave them yet 😭

3/5 stars ❤️

[Erin Trump · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really emotional and super sweet second chance romance.
I absolutely adored the twins, they were so sweet.
Beth & Brett are such a great couple.
They are working their way back to each other, and both get some help from their brothers and the ever helpful Mrs. Havers.
This quick romance had me all in my feels.

[Erin Stapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio review:
CK Darling is the master of short romance series that has your heart fluttering, and your smile shining. She has a way of creating a romance that is much more than surface level in such a short amount of time. Brett and Beth never fell out of love, but they let the struggle of life interviene and in this book they have to work to find their way back to what they once were. It's not easy, it's not glorified, but it is filled with love and hope. Andie Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap narrate this beautiful short romance and as always it is nothing short of perfection on their parts. I personally have loved all their narration and their abiltiy to captivate the reader with their emotional dynamic.

[Angelica Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this second chance romance in this series. Sweet, spicy, and short, these novellas just check all the boxes. Thank you to the author for sending me the ALC in exchange for my honest review.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the audio 😍 they do an amazing job. I wish the story was a little different but I do love how things worked out in the end.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Kiss Countdown by C.K. Darling, narrated in a superb duet by Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap, is a tender, hopeful second-chance holiday romance that completely steals the heart. This perfect Christmas short explores what happens when a marriage isn’t broken, just quietly neglected, following Beth and Brett—two people struggling to find their way back to each other amidst the holiday glow of a small, festive town.

Beth is doing her best to hold her world together, raising five-year-old twins and running the family shop, all while grieving the quiet ache of a love she had to put on pause. Brett, the man she once trusted with her whole heart, returns to town determined to face what he broke, having realized that his long hours and dedication to work caused him to miss the shared dinners, hand-in-hand holidays, and the woman who once laughed with him like no one else could. What begins as accidental proximity—complete with well-meaning matchmakers, nosy neighbors, and a town that runs on Christmas magic—slowly unravels into a deliberate rebuilding of connection, effort, and presence, not a sudden, passionate rekindling.

For a short story, this novella has immense emotional depth. You truly feel Beth’s exhaustion and vulnerability, and Brett’s regret and quiet determination, as they navigate their slow, hopeful pull back toward each other. The story avoids dramatic conflict, focusing instead on the everyday moments that make a relationship, allowing ample space for reflection, growth, and forgiveness. It’s a cozy, tender tale that hits all the right notes for a Christmas romance, proving that love is only worth having when you decide to show up for it, even when it’s hard.

The narration is exceptional and elevates the emotional nuance of the story. Andi Eloise beautifully captures Beth’s heart, strength, and sincerity, while Ryan Lee Dunlap gives Brett that warm, steady presence, conveying his regret and determination through thoughtful softness rather than melodrama. Together, their duet performance makes the experience feel incredibly intimate and real, perfectly capturing the theme of love being rebuilt through patience and commitment. If you love quick holiday listens that focus on intentional reconnection, mutual growth, and a sweetly earned happily-ever-after just before midnight, this emotionally powerful and beautifully narrated romance deserves a top spot on your December list.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Story & Narration🎧Heartwarming & Delightful!

Midnight Kiss Countdown
The Holiday Matchmaker Series
By: C.K. Darling
Narrated by: Andi Eloise, Ryan Lee Dunlap

C.K. Darling pens a wonderful short story, a delightful second chance holiday romance that captivates your attention and tugs at your heartstrings the entire time. Beth and Brett’s marriage was on the rocks, but they were bound to bump into each other in their small town. When they see each other again, they still feel the spark, but can they fix what they broke, their marriage. Holiday, small-town charm, meddling town-folk and adorable twins all play a role in helping them find their way back to each other in this entertaining and heartwarming holiday romance. An enjoyable story to enjoy around the holidays or anytime of the year.

🎧📚🎧 And for the wonderful audiobook listen performed by talented voice artists, Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap, whose fantastic performance takes the story to another level. I loved how they took each role and made it their own, sounding believable and just as I imagined the characters to sound, from the two leads, Beth and Brett, to the side and secondary characters, young and old, including the meddling Ms. Havers. They set the ideal tone for the story and conveyed all the characters’ emotions in their performance, making you feel each one. These two voice artists are a pleasure to

[BookishLatinaJenn (Jennifer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

🎧 ALC Review: Midnight Kiss Countdown by C.K. Darling
🎙️ Narrated by Andi Eloise & Ryan Lee Dunlap
🎧 ALC provided by the author and High Gravity Productions

This short holiday romance packs an emotional punch well above its page count, and on audio it truly sings. Midnight Kiss Countdown is a tender second chance love story about a marriage on pause, messy real life, and choosing each other again. Beth and Brett feel lived in and real, worn down by responsibility but still tethered by love that never fully disappeared.

The narration is the standout here. Andi Eloise captures Beth’s exhaustion, heartbreak, and quiet hope with so much warmth it aches, while Ryan Lee Dunlap brings Brett’s regret and steady devotion to life in a way that makes you root for him instantly. Together, they create an intimate listening experience that feels deeply personal and emotionally honest.

For a short listen, the growth feels earned, the family dynamic is heartfelt, and the small town meddling adds just the right touch of charm without overpowering the story. Cozy, reflective, and swoony in that soft holiday way, this is a perfect listen for anyone who loves love that fights to come back stronger.

🎄 Tropes You’ll Get:
💔 Second Chance Romance
💍 Separated Couple
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kids in the Story
🎄 Holiday Magic
🏘️ Small Town Matchmaking
💞 Rekindled Marriage

[Talisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m genuinely so happy this little holiday novella series exists, and I already cannot wait for the Valentine’s Day one 💕🎆

Mrs. H is SOOOO annoying, but in the absolute best way. You can’t help but love her. She’s literally the definition of Cupid, and I loved watching her take matters into her own hands yet again 🏹✨

As I always say, novellas are a bit of a different story when it comes to rating. They’re short, so the author is trying to squeeze a lot into a small space and C.K. Darling continues to do such a great job with that balance. If I could give half stars, this would easily be a 3.5⭐️ for me.

I really enjoyed this story, and it’s definitely not the author’s fault that I’m always left wanting a little more once it’s over; that’s honestly the curse of a good novella 😭💔

The second-chance, married-but-separated trope is one I usually avoid because my brain instantly goes to cheaters (which I hate), but I appreciated that Brett never cheated. He was simply put in a position where he had to prioritize his family, and that distinction mattered to me a lot.

And of course, Mrs. H meddling her way through it all made everything even better. I’m especially excited to see what’s coming next for Nate’s story 👀💫

[Michelle Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Kiss Countdown is a beautiful heartwarming story about the importance of love, family, communication in our lives. Brett and Beth are separated now for a wide variety of reasons. Can Peachwood Grove, a little matchmaking, the magic of the holiday season and love help? Will they save their marriage? Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap are extraordinary in their duet narration of this fabulous audiobook. I could feel all of Beth’s exhaustion, uncertainty, love and happiness through her voice. Brett’s warmth, his sincere desire to change his behavior and habits, his love and genuine happiness was clearly evident in his voice. They brought this story to life brilliantly. The twins were adorable. I highly recommend listening.
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 5 stars Narration 5 stars

[itsallaboutbooksandmacarons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second-chance romances always catch my attention, and this one was no exception. The Christmas setting added such a cozy, festive feeling that made the story feel warm and inviting.

I enjoyed how the characters navigated their past and the emotions that came with giving love another try. Listening to their journey made me feel connected to both their struggles and their moments of joy.

The narration added a lot, making the scenes vivid and giving personality to every interaction. The holiday backdrop combined with the romance made it a charming and heartwarming experience.

This audiobook left me smiling and appreciating the gentle mix of emotion, humor, and festive cheer that carried through the story.

[Sara (sarasbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brett and Beth who are married but currently separately due to Brett working to much and Beth tired of it. Brett has come to senses that he his job is not as important as his family and wants his family life back and wants to be present, however, he needs to earn it accordingly to Beth and show that he's willing to put his job second and be there and present for the family.

Can they fix what they broke, their marriage. Can Brett put his family first and be there for the bedtime routines, the cuddles and more?!?

This is a small-town charm, holiday chaos, and tender romance with a meddling matchmaker, Mrs. Havers.

Thank you C.K. Darling for this ARC

[H S · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very touching look into how so many relationships feel especially with kids, commitments, and dynamic changes. Falling into routines and losing what you really want and love until there’s a chance that it could be gone forever. The way Brett realizes what he’s missing and losing by putting his focus some place else shows that he is learning to appreciate what he had and wants again. Beth is thoughtful in her consideration of the family and her needs in the relationship and how they can make it work. The manner in which they find their way back to each other and have a plan to make it better than before is true love! Can’t wait for the next one in the series!

[Chasity Trimble · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this heartfelt novella. It’s short and fast-paced, but it still gives the characters room to feel real. Brett and Beth work to save their marriage when Brett focuses more on getting ahead with his business to support his family and loses sight of being more present with his time at home. This is a heartfelt story that is real and raw as they work through relatable issues as they both realize they have a love and family worth fighting for.

Andi Eloise and Ryan Lee Dunlap bring the characters to life and deliver all the emotions in this one. Well done!
3.75/5