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One Minute to Midnight
Vivienne
They say whatever you’re doing at midnight sets the tone for your whole year. Vivienne really hopes that’s not true… unless it is.
Her New Year’s Eve is already circling the drain. A viral scandal has torpedoed her reputation, her father is breathing down her neck, and a museum full of judgmental donors is the last place she wants to be.
Cue Brooks Hayes.
The museum's Head of Security. Tall. Serious. Handsome in a broody, yet adorable way. Maddeningly unimpressed by her. The most attractive man she’s ever wanted to strangle.
Their first interaction is a disaster. Their second is worse, ending with the doors to an off-limits exhibit sealing shut and locking them inside.
Worst New Year’s Eve ever? Or the best mistake she’ll ever make?
Brooks
Brooks Hayes believes in rules. Order. And keeping his head down and his emotions locked up tight.
Then Vivienne Armitage walks into his museum.
She’s glittering trouble and defiance. Recently disgraced. Wildly unapologetic. And absolutely determined to test every ounce of his self-control. She’s the last person he should want … and the only one he can’t seem to keep his eyes off.
When fate traps them alone, overnight, with no way out until morning, the sexual tension crackling between them is at risk of snapping.
Even though Brooks knows better than to cross the line, midnight is coming.
And some rules are made to be broken.
They say whatever you’re doing at midnight sets the tone for your whole year. Vivienne really hopes that’s not true… unless it is.
Her New Year’s Eve is already circling the drain. A viral scandal has torpedoed her reputation, her father is breathing down her neck, and a museum full of judgmental donors is the last place she wants to be.
Cue Brooks Hayes.
The museum's Head of Security. Tall. Serious. Handsome in a broody, yet adorable way. Maddeningly unimpressed by her. The most attractive man she’s ever wanted to strangle.
Their first interaction is a disaster. Their second is worse, ending with the doors to an off-limits exhibit sealing shut and locking them inside.
Worst New Year’s Eve ever? Or the best mistake she’ll ever make?
Brooks
Brooks Hayes believes in rules. Order. And keeping his head down and his emotions locked up tight.
Then Vivienne Armitage walks into his museum.
She’s glittering trouble and defiance. Recently disgraced. Wildly unapologetic. And absolutely determined to test every ounce of his self-control. She’s the last person he should want … and the only one he can’t seem to keep his eyes off.
When fate traps them alone, overnight, with no way out until morning, the sexual tension crackling between them is at risk of snapping.
Even though Brooks knows better than to cross the line, midnight is coming.
And some rules are made to be broken.
83 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 31, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
December 31, 2025
To my readers—
Thank you for taking the time to read this little short story and for being here. Whether this book made you laugh, swoon, or surprised you in some way, I’m grateful you gave it a chance.
Every review, at every rating, matters to me. I read them all, I learn from them all, and I take each one as a lesson that helps me grow as a writer and storyteller. Your honesty is part of the process, and I appreciate it more than you know.
Thank you for supporting my work, for showing up with open minds and open hearts, and for being part of this journey with me. I hope this story found you when you needed it, even if just for a little while.
-Cedar
Thank you for taking the time to read this little short story and for being here. Whether this book made you laugh, swoon, or surprised you in some way, I’m grateful you gave it a chance.
Every review, at every rating, matters to me. I read them all, I learn from them all, and I take each one as a lesson that helps me grow as a writer and storyteller. Your honesty is part of the process, and I appreciate it more than you know.
Thank you for supporting my work, for showing up with open minds and open hearts, and for being part of this journey with me. I hope this story found you when you needed it, even if just for a little while.
-Cedar
December 31, 2025
Fun read!
The problem with short stories is… can I have more?
Such a fun read! Cinematically written, I felt like I could see the room while I read. The spice 🥵 I can’t wait for more!
The problem with short stories is… can I have more?
Such a fun read! Cinematically written, I felt like I could see the room while I read. The spice 🥵 I can’t wait for more!
January 2, 2026
This book was the perfect way to start 2026! I just need more of these 2!!
January 27, 2026
I loved this! It was short and spicy! But not overly spicy! And the banter made me laugh out loud!
January 4, 2026
One Minute to Midnight was the perfect way to ring in the new year. Short, steamy, and completely addictive, this novella delivered exactly what it promised and left me smiling when it was over.
This story wastes no time. The chemistry is instant, the banter is sharp, and the tension crackles from the moment these two are thrown together. It is spicy without overstaying its welcome and sweet without losing its edge. For a shorter listen, it packs a surprising emotional punch while keeping the focus on fun, connection, and heat.
The narration absolutely elevated the experience. Rachel Dane and Bailey Turpin brought the characters to life with fantastic pacing and energy. Their performances matched the tone perfectly, flirty, confident, and engaging, making this an easy listen from start to finish.
If you are looking for a quick, sexy audiobook with great chemistry and strong narration, this one is a must. Cedar James delivered a spicy little gem.
This story wastes no time. The chemistry is instant, the banter is sharp, and the tension crackles from the moment these two are thrown together. It is spicy without overstaying its welcome and sweet without losing its edge. For a shorter listen, it packs a surprising emotional punch while keeping the focus on fun, connection, and heat.
The narration absolutely elevated the experience. Rachel Dane and Bailey Turpin brought the characters to life with fantastic pacing and energy. Their performances matched the tone perfectly, flirty, confident, and engaging, making this an easy listen from start to finish.
If you are looking for a quick, sexy audiobook with great chemistry and strong narration, this one is a must. Cedar James delivered a spicy little gem.
January 2, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this story. It was short, sweet, and to the point. It told so much in a short number of pages and leaves you not wanting to story to end or wanting to know what happens between our MCs after their breakfast and "nap". This short story was the perfect way to kick off the new year and one I would highly recommend.
What I loved: The banter!! The back and forth between the characters was just so good and well done. It had me giggling and kicking my feet for when they inevitably caved for each other. I needed more of them by the end.
I can't wait to see what else is coming from this series throughout the year. I just know it's all going to be amazing.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
My Thoughts: I absolutely loved this story. It was short, sweet, and to the point. It told so much in a short number of pages and leaves you not wanting to story to end or wanting to know what happens between our MCs after their breakfast and "nap". This short story was the perfect way to kick off the new year and one I would highly recommend.
What I loved: The banter!! The back and forth between the characters was just so good and well done. It had me giggling and kicking my feet for when they inevitably caved for each other. I needed more of them by the end.
I can't wait to see what else is coming from this series throughout the year. I just know it's all going to be amazing.
January 4, 2026
Okay I loved everything about this and demand more!! It is a fast listen, but well worth it! There is banter and it plays out like a movie scene!
I can’t wait for the next one on the series!!
Rachel is quickly becoming one of my fav narrators and this is my first listen from Bailey and I can’t wait to hear more of his work! GREAT job to the both of them as well as Cedar for the story!!
I can’t wait for the next one on the series!!
Rachel is quickly becoming one of my fav narrators and this is my first listen from Bailey and I can’t wait to hear more of his work! GREAT job to the both of them as well as Cedar for the story!!
December 31, 2025
Never a dull moment in the life of Cedar James and Nicole Linz!!
JESUS!! Y’all nailed it!!
Banter✅
Mild tension ✅
Spicy ✅
Slow burn ❌ 😆
No need for a build up with your characters click like cogs in a well oiled clock!!
LOVE this first installment and I can’t wait for more!!
JESUS!! Y’all nailed it!!
Banter✅
Mild tension ✅
Spicy ✅
Slow burn ❌ 😆
No need for a build up with your characters click like cogs in a well oiled clock!!
LOVE this first installment and I can’t wait for more!!
December 31, 2025
Always a 10
Always a 5 star when I read a Cedar James Book!!!!!! Yesss!! I was so excited to see this in my kindle today. Its spicy and the story line is so fun!!! I love Brooks!!
Always a 5 star when I read a Cedar James Book!!!!!! Yesss!! I was so excited to see this in my kindle today. Its spicy and the story line is so fun!!! I love Brooks!!
December 31, 2025
LOVEDDD it was short, it made me feel, it was spicy. such a great holiday novella and who doesnt love a broody guy? just saying....i hear the audio is a banger 👀
January 1, 2026
Quick, spicy read
Short story with spice. Creative predicament leaves them stuck together. Cute story for a very quick read on New Year’s Eve.
Short story with spice. Creative predicament leaves them stuck together. Cute story for a very quick read on New Year’s Eve.
January 1, 2026
Well, 2025 definitely went out with a bang 🎉 loved every little bit of this!
January 4, 2026
This was a quick read that made me laugh & cheer for Vivienne and Broody Britches. Lol oh, and the spice is spicy once it gets added. Cant wait for the next book!
January 22, 2026
Fun, flirty and spicy. Such a fun easy audiobook listen. With amazing narration! Just listen to it, you won’t regret it!
May 22, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5
I love our Broody Britches 🤭🤭
🌶️🌶️.5
I love our Broody Britches 🤭🤭
December 31, 2025
Okay so super cute fast read. I have yet to be disappointed by any of Cedar James books. I can’t wait for the next book release!
January 2, 2026
A quickie for the New Year!
Whew! That was fun! Forced proximity at its finest!
Vivienne and Brooks definitely deserved their little escapade.
And poor Ben lololol.
Whew! That was fun! Forced proximity at its finest!
Vivienne and Brooks definitely deserved their little escapade.
And poor Ben lololol.
January 3, 2026
quick and so good!
This is definitely a must read!!! It’s short and sweet. But also makes you want more. I am so excited for the next ones to come out
This is definitely a must read!!! It’s short and sweet. But also makes you want more. I am so excited for the next ones to come out
January 13, 2026
Loved it! Audio was fantastic! Will read/listen to anything that’s put out by Cedar James. Definitely an auto buy author for me.
February 6, 2026
One Minute to Midnight is another reminder of why Cedar James is so good at pulling you straight into a story. The way she sets a scene makes you feel like you’re standing right there with the characters, experiencing everything alongside them.
The Aurora Borealis is already romantic on its own, but the museum installation that Vivienne and Brooks are forced to experience together? Absolute perfection. The tension, the sparks, the chemistry—it’s all fire. 🔥
A Year of Accidental Love Affairs is such an incredible passion project, and if this story is any indication, this year is going to be completely epic.
The Aurora Borealis is already romantic on its own, but the museum installation that Vivienne and Brooks are forced to experience together? Absolute perfection. The tension, the sparks, the chemistry—it’s all fire. 🔥
A Year of Accidental Love Affairs is such an incredible passion project, and if this story is any indication, this year is going to be completely epic.
January 9, 2026
An epic short read
This may be a short read but it is “chef kiss!” Do not sleep on this and start your new year off with some spice and everything nice!
This may be a short read but it is “chef kiss!” Do not sleep on this and start your new year off with some spice and everything nice!
February 22, 2026
Forced proximity
Dislike to lust
Banter
Stuck together
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet narration - Rachel Dane & Bailey Turpin
Ok these two were fire! I love Rachel Dane she is such an amazing new addition to the audiobook world! This was my first book with Bailey Turpin and I can strongly say he is fabulous!
Fresh off a break up our FMC must attend a new years eve bash because her father deems it so. Meeting a broody hot security guard getting locked in an exhibit together and things get interesting
This is a fast paced short and easy book. The writing is flirty and has great banter. The narrators did a fabulous job. I enjoyed this short novella very much.
Dislike to lust
Banter
Stuck together
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet narration - Rachel Dane & Bailey Turpin
Ok these two were fire! I love Rachel Dane she is such an amazing new addition to the audiobook world! This was my first book with Bailey Turpin and I can strongly say he is fabulous!
Fresh off a break up our FMC must attend a new years eve bash because her father deems it so. Meeting a broody hot security guard getting locked in an exhibit together and things get interesting
This is a fast paced short and easy book. The writing is flirty and has great banter. The narrators did a fabulous job. I enjoyed this short novella very much.
January 6, 2026
Stuck in a snow globe amidst aroura lights, this book had a fun plot and beautiful writing! James wrote this read in such an enchanting and sparkly tone.
January 26, 2026
Breathtaking
Absolutely BREATHTAKING! Cedar James does it again. Wow, just WOW! Get ready for a jaw dropping, mouth watering, lovers quarrel turned hot and steamy! Read it! Give us more!
Absolutely BREATHTAKING! Cedar James does it again. Wow, just WOW! Get ready for a jaw dropping, mouth watering, lovers quarrel turned hot and steamy! Read it! Give us more!
January 4, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
🌶️.5
🎧🎧🎧🎧
Super cute short story. Would have loved even more! Audio was great!
🌶️.5
🎧🎧🎧🎧
Super cute short story. Would have loved even more! Audio was great!
January 13, 2026
I don’t usually do short romances… but this one ATE and left NO crumbs. 🥵
Cedar James somehow packed chemistry, tension, emotion, and SPICE into a bite-sized audiobook that had me kicking my feet and screaming.
This is forced proximity done RIGHT—the kind where the tension is suffocating, the banter is sharp enough to cut, and every look feels illegal. Vivienne and Brooks? Absolutely unhinged levels of chemistry. The slow burn snaps, the spice hits, and suddenly you’re questioning why this book isn’t longer because YOU. ARE. NOT. READY. FOR. IT. TO. END.
The emotional payoff? Swoony.
The happily ever after? Earned.
The only crime? It ended too soon. I need MORE Vivienne and Brooks immediately. 🫠
First Cedar James book. First time with these narrators.
Not the last. I’m obsessed.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read it. Listen to it. Thank me later. 😌🔥
Cedar James somehow packed chemistry, tension, emotion, and SPICE into a bite-sized audiobook that had me kicking my feet and screaming.
This is forced proximity done RIGHT—the kind where the tension is suffocating, the banter is sharp enough to cut, and every look feels illegal. Vivienne and Brooks? Absolutely unhinged levels of chemistry. The slow burn snaps, the spice hits, and suddenly you’re questioning why this book isn’t longer because YOU. ARE. NOT. READY. FOR. IT. TO. END.
The emotional payoff? Swoony.
The happily ever after? Earned.
The only crime? It ended too soon. I need MORE Vivienne and Brooks immediately. 🫠
First Cedar James book. First time with these narrators.
Not the last. I’m obsessed.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read it. Listen to it. Thank me later. 😌🔥
April 16, 2026
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2.5🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a short spicy damn good time. The story was cute the spice was just right and loved the banter back and forth between them which Cedar always nails on her books.
Vivianne finds herself fresh out of a bad breakup on New Year’s Eve having to attend a fundraiser with her father and not happy about it. In an attempt to be rebellious she finds herself getting locked in overnight inside an exhibit in the museum with a grumpy broody older security guard Mr brooks Hayes and let’s just say they find ways to occupy the time. Great short good time
2.5🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a short spicy damn good time. The story was cute the spice was just right and loved the banter back and forth between them which Cedar always nails on her books.
Vivianne finds herself fresh out of a bad breakup on New Year’s Eve having to attend a fundraiser with her father and not happy about it. In an attempt to be rebellious she finds herself getting locked in overnight inside an exhibit in the museum with a grumpy broody older security guard Mr brooks Hayes and let’s just say they find ways to occupy the time. Great short good time
January 6, 2026
This was such a fun short story.
The FMC is snarky and quick witted and the MMC is broody (as per his nickname) and standoffish...just the way we like them.
One night of being in the wrong place at the wrong time changes everything for them.
The spice is spicing and the writing is amazing as always. Cedar never lets us down with her amazing skills.
The FMC is snarky and quick witted and the MMC is broody (as per his nickname) and standoffish...just the way we like them.
One night of being in the wrong place at the wrong time changes everything for them.
The spice is spicing and the writing is amazing as always. Cedar never lets us down with her amazing skills.
January 2, 2026
A fantastic short story. It was written in a way that I got everything I wanted without feeling rushed. The characters were engaging, especially the MMC. It was a wonderful read to help bring in the New Year. Looking so forward to seeing what's ahead.
February 8, 2026
This was a cute and fast read! I wish I had found around New Years but reading it just after. Finished it all in one setting! Cedar James is a new author I’ve just discovered but hoping to read more of her work!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews