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1:09 a.m.

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Ten years ago, Ayva Lenox did something she never she stopped planning and said yes.
A Bentley arrived.
A stranger waited.
And for two days, she remembered what it meant to feel alive.
Now, success surrounds her, but satisfaction does not. Between company launches and late-night loneliness, Ayva can’t stop asking herself the same when did wanting become something to be ashamed of?
When the past resurfaces in unexpected ways, Ayva must decide whether calling on O again is a mistake or the beginning of who she was meant to be.

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 9, 2026

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L.B. Gaines

17 books84 followers

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5 stars
281 (45%)
4 stars
234 (37%)
3 stars
90 (14%)
2 stars
12 (1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for Brittany.
92 reviews25 followers
March 1, 2026
I really enjoyed 1:09 AM! The story was engaging from the start, and I especially appreciated the smutty scenes — they were steamy, well-written, and added real intensity to the connection between the characters.

One of my favorite aspects was how the MMC helped the FMC truly liberate herself — not just sexually, but emotionally and personally as well. Through their encounters and growing connection, you could see her stepping into her confidence, owning her desires, and feeling empowered in ways she hadn’t before. That growth made their chemistry feel deeper and more meaningful than just physical attraction.

The writing was strong and very detailed, but I will say that at times it felt a bit overly descriptive. There were moments where I felt the descriptions lingered a little longer than necessary, which slightly slowed the pacing for me. Still, the detail did create a vivid atmosphere and made the scenes feel immersive.

What kept me invested was the emotional tension and vulnerability between the leads. Their dynamic felt layered, and I appreciated how their intimacy also pushed character growth. Even when the pacing dipped a bit, I was still engaged enough to want to see how everything would unfold.

Overall, 1:09 AM was a sexy, emotionally charged read with empowering character development and strong chemistry. Despite the slightly heavy descriptions at times, I definitely enjoyed it and would recommend it to readers who love romance with heat and depth. I look forward to reading other books included in the 2 AM series!

Profile Image for kiriahsbookshelf.
324 reviews27 followers
January 10, 2026
Very quick read and spicy novella! Women shouldn’t be punished or condemned by what they like! It explodes desires without judgement! This for the sexually liberated women or the women who want to be sexual liberated but are afraid to be, LB wrote this for you!
327 reviews
January 9, 2026
Happy Pub Day 🥳.
ARC review 3.5 stars
Release date - January 9th
My first book of 2026 was an erotic, sensual novela By L. B. Gaines and it came in hotttt 🔥. When I tell you spicy 🌶🌶🌶🌶.
The first book in the 2am series, explored sensuality and a woman being able to explore her body without shame. Feeling something without feeling guilty about it, "not trading adventure for ambition or desire for deadlines." Was this real or was this imagined? I am rooting for Ayva and will say, this was real.
If you are into erotica then this is for you.
Profile Image for TheTBRWhisperer.
210 reviews
February 1, 2026
First read from this author and it will not be my last.

I loved the storyline and loving the vibe of the series.

This is an interconnected standalone series so you can read one without the other but I recommend all.

The spice was hot.

The chemistry is nice.

storyline was unique.

I wanted more from the couple BUT when you read the story, you understand the vibes so I understand their relationship and appreciate the way they were written.

I both loved and hated it but that made the story so enjoyable for me.
Profile Image for Simply_YoYo.
524 reviews13 followers
February 2, 2026
A quick, spicy novella that explores sexual freedom and fantasy.
Avya and O are grown grown 🥵🌶️😮‍💨

It doesn’t just bring the heat—it also raises questions about desire and double standards. Are the rules different for women and men?

✨ Favorite quote:

“That pleasure isn’t the opposite of pain… Both exist as proof I’m still alive.”

Short, sexy, and thought-provoking.
Profile Image for JazzReads .
1,133 reviews34 followers
January 28, 2026
This is my first book by this author and a very spicy one. This was a fast pace read and really nasty in a good way. Overall I like this read and I want to pick up another book by his author.
Profile Image for Castina.
263 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2026
4.25⭐️

Quick and spicy! This novella was really good. O was such a dream and a fantasy creator. Will definitely read more by this author!
Profile Image for Stefanie.
920 reviews45 followers
March 16, 2026
This book was crazy, but oh soo good. I was clutching my pearls the majority of the book, but that last chapter also had me squeezing my thighs.
Profile Image for Tamekia .
430 reviews17 followers
April 8, 2026
1:09

Whew! I don’t know if something miscasting with me but yea I like it!! I love the message too! Always announce your wants and needs!
Profile Image for Chanel.
491 reviews7 followers
January 16, 2026
This was a very quick read and nothing what I expected at all.
It definitely gives you a different perspective of exploring your forbidden desires.
This was beyond spicy. 🌶️
Profile Image for Cardi Blue.
524 reviews9 followers
January 15, 2026
Wait

I wish I knew O’s real name too. Tai really threw me off but okay backpack stud representation. I hate that it’s a novella because I want an epilogue. Now what?
Profile Image for Michelle.
205 reviews7 followers
January 8, 2026
1:09am is a quick, spicy read that still manages to carry a thoughtful message. In this first book of the 2am series, we follow Ayva as she steps into a new level of confidence, especially when it comes to naming what she wants and refusing to feel ashamed of it. O isn’t just the love interest; he’s the catalyst that shows her it’s okay to take up space, be vocal, and enjoy pleasure without apology.

What I loved most is how the story quietly pushes back against the way women are too often shamed for their desires. Watching Ayva own her wants felt empowering, honest, and fun. Can’t wait to see what the rest of the series has in store.

Thank you to L.B. Gaines for the ARC — all thoughts are my own!
Profile Image for Karla Kennedy-Phillips &#x1f49e;.
12 reviews
February 20, 2026
This novella hooked me before chapter one.

The dedication reads:
“For anyone who has silenced their own wanting, learned to tame their hunger to fit someone else’s comfort. May this story remind you that your desire is not something to hide or heal from.”

I paused there. Because that isn’t just a dedication, it’s an invitation.

At its core, this story explores what happens when a woman stops shrinking her wants to make others comfortable. The dynamic between Ayva and O isn’t just about attraction, it’s about being heard. Not admired. Not displayed. Heard.

What resonated with me most was the idea that sometimes people can’t meet your needs not because you asked incorrectly, but because they never truly saw you. And when someone finally does? That shift is powerful.

O’s dominance felt intentional, not performative. He didn’t overpower her, he created space for her to direct, to speak, to take up room. Even within a 48-hour arrangement, the emotional impact felt real. The aftercare was thoughtful. The attention to detail mattered.

And I have to fangirl for a second, LB Gaines created a playlist with a song for every chapter. It made the experience feel like I was not just reading it but I was in it.

This wasn’t just a billionaire fantasy.
It felt like permission.

And that emotional pull is why this is a five-star read for me.
Profile Image for Fadeless Pages .
127 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
January 6, 2026
📚 ARC REVIEW 📚

Thank you L.B. Gaines for the e-ARC!

I don’t even know where to start! This book was soooooo good I stayed up late just to finish it in one sitting. As a fan who has read all of L.B. Gaines' books, I can confidently say this one is by far the spiciest yet and I absolutely loved every second of it!

The chemistry between the two leads is electric, driven by a deep understanding of what the other needs.

O: He is a man who is confident in every aspect; he demands attention without saying a word. He is the ultimate "alpha" who knows exactly how to take charge, and yup, he most definitely will talk you through it. One of the best parts of his character was how he never shamed A for what she truly desired.

A: She is the definition of "successful but unfulfilled." While she excelled in her professional life, she wasn't truly living life. She was missing a key piece to achieve satisfaction: the courage to ask for and state what she truly wants.

The dynamic of their relationship is a masterclass in tension and release. A needed someone to unlock a side of her she had been keeping quiet, and needless to say, O DELIVERED.

This is a fast paced, high heat read that explores desire without judgment, 1:09 AM is a must read. L.B. Gaines has outdone herself again with this one!
Profile Image for Shamoya Radcliffe.
297 reviews11 followers
January 7, 2026
thank you to LB Gaines for the ARC 💖

This is book 1 in the 2am three author series by LB Gaines, DH Renfroe & CM Barnes

This is an erotica novella, and follows the FMC Ayva, who is a very successful and businesswoman. While with her friends for Galantines the topic of pleasure & desires came up which got her to reminiscing and realizing that she has not felt alive, fulfilled since her encounter 10 years ago with a stranger that goes by the name of O.

Ayva decided to spin the block, 48 hours with the man who last made her feel something and live out her wildest fantasies. What I love the most about this novella was that it was more than just spice, it was a lesson on women leaning into their desires especially in the bedroom. Not being afraid to ask for what you want and not settling because you are afraid of being judged on your deepest fantasies. Women are often labelled or called names when it comes to certain sexual needs and that in turn cause women to shut down. While the MMC was a Dom, he was there to serve Ayva, he was there to remind her who she was and what her body deserved.

LB Gaines just has a way with words, and I was highlighting so much lol

If you love a spicy novella but still a story you can take something from, go ahead and add this to the TBR
Profile Image for Donna C.K.
133 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 10, 2026
In a word, bold. In two words, Read It.

Thanks to author L.B. Gaines for the advance review e-copy. The views are all mine..

In this erotica novella 1:09 a.m., the first installment in the 2 A.M book series, we read about Ayva who, 10 years ago, shed her inhibitions and cloak of comfort and dared to step into a new skin doing what she wanted for 48 hours thanks to the handsome millionaire O.

L.B has a way with words. She never fails to give readers a ring side seat to her characters' experiences. We're right there with Ayva and O, their every command and compliance, the tug and push, the whispers, the loudness, which Ayva relives after an outing with her gal pals.

Those special moments of freedom made her feel alive. She was unafraid to be. As spicy and explicit as this novella is, it's not crude or distasteful. This story is about a woman claiming what she wants.

I recommend reading the dedication for this one if you don't normally do. Also check the trigger/content warnings to make sure you're comfortable before entering the book.

Chapter titles and a playlist? It has those too.

With Valentine's Day approaching but you're hesitant about saying out loud what you truly want, read 1:09 a.m. and live vicariously through Ayva's escapades.
Profile Image for Ann-Marie Herod.
103 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 8, 2026
First off thank to LB Gaines for this ARC of 1:09 am. For the women who have been shunned for their desires or feel the need to suppress their true selves. This book is for you. This is not just an erotic novella but a story about liberation and indulgence. When it first started, since this is an erotica, I did feel like some of the first scenes were kind of rushed through(I wanted more) but what I realized is that they were really laying a foundation for the main course . Ayva our FMC is always performing for people and wearing different masks. This book explores what it looks like to have yourself be the center of attention and your needs prioritized. And O…. Whew. I need an O in my life. He’s an MMC who is dominant but in the healthiest way. Secure in his sexuality. Ayva by the end of the story is not the same woman she was at the beginning. Yes for her growth. Now the ending will have you scratching your head and if you’re are like me maybe even wanting more. Can’t wait to see what the others do.
Profile Image for GetLitWithRae.
160 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 9, 2026
1:09 AM was a quick, very spicy read and easily the hottest title I’ve read from LB Gaines so far.

The chemistry between O and Ayva was electric from the start. What I loved most was how O created a space where Ayva could finally release, explore, and be the woman she had long kept hidden, with no judgment. Ayva’s sexual repression and O’s ability to help liberate her made their connection intense and compelling.

There were moments when I genuinely had to pause and ask myself whether what was happening was reality or fantasy, and that blurred line only added to the experience.

This one brought the heat. Voyeurism, BDSM elements, and same-sex interactions are all part of the story, so truly… if you can’t take the heat, stay out of the kitchen 🥵🔥

And can we talk about the playlist? Absolute fire. It perfectly matched the vibe and elevated the reading experience even more.

A bold, unapologetically spicy read with strong chemistry and sensual freedom at its core.

Thank you to Ms. Gaines for the ARC. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Yenna Myers.
21 reviews1 follower
January 9, 2026
Come with your ears open, yes, ears. I know you’re reading this, but trust me, this review is meant to be heard.

Big O came with big energy, intention, and a deep need to ensure Ayva’s desires and dreams were fully met. And while the chemistry and spice were undeniable (because whew 😮‍💨), this story was about so much more than sex.

Ayva meets a man who truly sees her, who she is, who she’s becoming, and the freedom she needs to exist fully as herself. What stood out most was how intentional this story felt. This wasn’t rushed, shallow erotica; it was layered, purposeful, and rooted in liberation.

I thought 3 Months in Accra was my favorite L.B. Gaines read… until this one. This book explores sexual freedom, self-expression, and the power of refusing to shrink into a version of womanhood created to please others. It celebrates choosing yourself, without apology, judgment, or expectation.

Read immediately.
Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Vonetta Evans.
417 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 6, 2026
ARC Review

This book is for the grown and sexy who are not afraid of sexual fluidity. Ayva just wants to explore her sexual desires without being judged and no one has been able to do it for her except O who she crossed paths with a long time ago. Those memories bring her to reconnecting with him and when they do we get to take a ride on her journey.

For this to be the first erotica written by LB Gaines she definitely tapped all the way in. We get some BDSM, voyeurism, same sex action....alot. But most of all Ayva is able to be sexually liberated which was nice to see for her. At times while reading, I couldn't tell what was real versus what was a fantasy but I think that was purposefully done to keep you fully engaged and that I was.

Thank you to LB Gaines for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tiara Lashae.
68 reviews2 followers
January 9, 2026
I’ll be honest, I thought this book was starting off slow. But knowing L.B. Gaines, I trusted the process… and when the pressure hit? My mouth was OPEN.

1:09am surprised me in the best way. Ayva is a very relatable FMC…successful, driven, yet deeply unsatisfied, not because she doesn’t know what she wants, but because she hasn’t been speaking up for herself. That theme hit hard.

The connection in this story is intense and unconventional. Being tied to a man you only see once every decade, who doesn’t belong to you, yet understands you in ways no one else does. The tension was real.

Yes, there’s spice, but there’s also substance. This book speaks on desire, shame, and giving women permission to want more without apology. Bold, emotional, and definitely worth the read.
Profile Image for Monica.
8 reviews
January 9, 2026
Erotica with the spice and vibes

I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. Ayva and O have a second chance at discovering what 48 hours would be like with no limits. Ten years have gone by and there hasn’t been one man to make Ayva feel alive or shake up her world. It’s as if time stands still when the two reunite and it’s shown in the bond they share.
1:09 AM brings all the spice,energy and vibes you need of an Erotica with a beautiful message behind it.
Every woman should be able to feel cherished, seen and overall empowered with no shame in getting what she truly deserves. ✨I can’t wait for you all to start book one of the series. If this was only book one I can’t imagine what else is in store.
Profile Image for Mrs Book Bae.
212 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2026
Whew 🔥

This is a new to me author and I went into this book with some idea of what would happen but lordt I still wasn't prepared for the debauchery, the raunchiness and the down right filthy sexual experiences. I'm not judging at all I was highly intrigued 🥵

Had me questioning what I was really into lmao I had that Rihanna meme face majority of the time like damn its like that.

I don't believe I have read a book with a foursome before but damn what a way to be introduced 🤭

O was so attentive and made sure A got what she wanted and then some.

If you're looking for a spicy quick read and don't mind multiple partners get into this one ASAP!

And definitely listen to the soundtrack because it adds to the overall experience 🤏🏾
Profile Image for NubianJoí .
2,341 reviews12 followers
February 14, 2026
Clown or Circus 🧐

Ugh, what🧐⁉️ The book, “1:09 am (The 2am series)” was overrated🤷🏾‍♀️‼️Nevertheless, please heed the content Trigger Warnings listed by the Author. More so, this book contains explicitly sexual dialogue, imagery & BDSM encounters suitable for mature audiences & consenting adults only. Thereafter, if shock value was the objective “1:09am” mission accomplished. This MFC Ayva (was the weekend clown or the resident buffoon. …peculiar!🧐). This chick had either low or no self esteem, socially awkward & or required validation beyond academia & professional environments. Otherwise, “1:09am” was just a methodical militarized tri sexual (try anything 👀🥴🙂‍↔️🤭) glam-scam circus‼️…This read was inconsistent & boring🤡 😴🤷🏾‍♀️‼️
Profile Image for Jerrica (Mrsmar10Reads) Martin .
1,725 reviews10 followers
January 10, 2026
Requirements for Pleasure

“That pleasure isn’t the opposite of pain,” I said at last. “Both exist as proof I’m still alive.”

This book was about finding your voice in order to demand the pleasure you deserve. Somewhere along the way, a woman was told that she couldn't want the things she desired, the things she felt she deserved. Pleasure isn't about being kept, but all about being cherished. O showed A that she deserved to be cherished and pleasured according to what she needed and desired, not according to society standards. Everyone needs an "O" experience. Happy Reading Y'all!💋
18 reviews8 followers
January 11, 2026

L.B Gaines is a new to me author & this is my 3rd book ive read by her this year already. I randomly decided to read this book at 2am, ironically as this book is the first of the 2AM Series. I dont usually listen to the playlist in books but baby when i say the vibes were vibing! I sure will be listening to playlist from now on lol The playlist sent this short erotica to another level. Pearls were clinched, flabbers gasted and at this point am i Ayva or did i dream this because i felt like i was in the book lol A short story told very well, unrushed for this whole story to have taken place in "48 hours" it flowed so well.
114 reviews
January 22, 2026
A very quick read but beyond spicy 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

My mouth is on the floor with this oneee! I finished this book days ago and still been trying to figure out how to write a review 😭 I came into it blind and wasn’t expecting all of that!!! Phew it got intense real fast. Definitely a spicy read with emotional and sensual energy. I’m interested to see what the other books in the series are going to be about.

This book is for women who want to explore their deepest desires but never feel like they have a voice or know how to express it without feeling judged.

If you love a story that mixes grown-and-reflective vibes with bold romantic tension, 1:09 delivers.
Profile Image for BookinWithNik.
33 reviews4 followers
January 27, 2026
My Lord on todaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyy! As a girly who secretly desires to live the BDSM life, this short read filled me completely. I literally imagined every scene in my head, smirking and nodding in approval while reading each word. O is the ultimate Dom, I love his energy and his ability to simply read physical and emotional cues. I loved to see ‘Princess A’ relinquish the need to be what society says she should be, and allow her inner sl*t to come front and center. I can’t lie, I’d love to see the relationship between these two turn into a relationship because it’d be interesting to see how the dynamics are.. considering how they entered each other’s lives. Ah to dream!
Profile Image for Lily K..
170 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 8, 2026
(4.5-5) Thank you L.B. Gaines for the ARC.

Ahh, I can’t believe I put this one off for this long. This was so good.

I enjoy LB’s writing and it was so good to see her expand into new territory. This book was spicy, it was sensual, it was about trust and removing the mask and finally allowing yourself to be see.

O led and made space for A to be her true self and fulfill her fantasies without judgement. He brought out of her a sense of power she felt shamed for having and wanting to use.

I enjoyed this story and I’m glad I was able to read it.
Profile Image for Shae.
1,022 reviews38 followers
February 13, 2026
Safe words…

adventurous, emotional, reflective, medium-paced

Rating: 4.25

Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes


Ayva met O ten years ago. They had a connection where he made her feel alive, seen and cherished. These days she feels so much less than that, it feels as though she has had too shrink herself and not be seen in work and life.

A decides to take a chance and message O; maybe he is still around after all this time!

What happens at 1:09 in the morning?

Loved the plot, the characters are wonderful, the story is short and quite spicy!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews