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Midnight Fireworks
Spencer Cline is tired of being alone, but he also loves his job and works way too many hours. Something he’s not ready to change.
Jake Raines owns his own restaurant and knows what it’s like to put time in to make your business a success. Now he’s trying to learn how to balance the time he works with time to meet someone.
Spencer and Jake are drawn to each other instantly when they meet at a New Year’s Eve mixer. When a wrong number ensures they’ll have a little extra time together, they’re willing to take a chance on each other. Can two workaholics find time for each other in their busy schedules? With a little help from a wrong number and undeniable chemistry, they might.
Jake Raines owns his own restaurant and knows what it’s like to put time in to make your business a success. Now he’s trying to learn how to balance the time he works with time to meet someone.
Spencer and Jake are drawn to each other instantly when they meet at a New Year’s Eve mixer. When a wrong number ensures they’ll have a little extra time together, they’re willing to take a chance on each other. Can two workaholics find time for each other in their busy schedules? With a little help from a wrong number and undeniable chemistry, they might.
- GenresM M Romance
77 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 31, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 5, 2026
A sweet short story, two men in their mid 30's bump into each other as the walk to a kind of 'meet and greet slash dating event. They do their own thing but are occasionally glancing around for each other. The pull they both feel makes a decision for them. A lovely gentle tale.
March 5, 2026
4.5 stars
My thoughts on audiobooks in general:
I received this book as an audiobook and I had never done a “Read and Listen” before, found it a bit challenging to get it working correctly but did work it out. I personally did not care for the highlighting on the place in the text, but that’s just me, I think. I enjoyed listening to the book, but did realize I read faster on my own without the voice, which is probably why I don’t use audiobooks very often —just a personal preference. Hearing the different voices did add a different perspective to the story.
The audiobook presentation:
The voice was done by Guy Veryzer and he did a good job with the different voices for Spencer and Jake. I could always tell which character’s point of view I was getting (speaking/thinking) without having to check the book to know. The phrasing and inflection were done well, the characters were definitely different, and the story flowed well. As mentioned above, I tend to read faster without audio, so I was especially conscious of the extended pauses between chapters, but the different voices for the characters did make it seem more “real”. I thought the narrator gave each character a distinctive voice and personality, adding a different element to my usual reading style (I tend to do that in my head), so it is interesting to have another perspective and interpretation from the one in my brain. I especially liked that part.
The story:
I enjoyed this short, low-angst tale of two men reluctantly attending a New Year’s Eve singles mixer, hoping to find someone to make a connection with, but not overly optimistic. Spencer and Jake notice each other as they approach the elevator and make small talk while waiting. Finding out they are going to the same place, they plan to stay together while they can, finding a mutual interest during their initial interactions. At the start they separate, but end up in the same group after a mistake, and things progress well from there. The New Year’s Eve is a good one, they have much in common, and begin a relationship revolving around work schedules and finding as much time together as possible. Characters are realistic and relatable in a realistic situation, finding the person who could be their forever, seemingly against the odds. There were parts that made me chuckle in a couple places and smile in quite a few others, and I felt like the relationship was in a good place with two guys who seemed destined to meet on a significant New Year’s Eve. ready to move on to build a life together.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My thoughts on audiobooks in general:
I received this book as an audiobook and I had never done a “Read and Listen” before, found it a bit challenging to get it working correctly but did work it out. I personally did not care for the highlighting on the place in the text, but that’s just me, I think. I enjoyed listening to the book, but did realize I read faster on my own without the voice, which is probably why I don’t use audiobooks very often —just a personal preference. Hearing the different voices did add a different perspective to the story.
The audiobook presentation:
The voice was done by Guy Veryzer and he did a good job with the different voices for Spencer and Jake. I could always tell which character’s point of view I was getting (speaking/thinking) without having to check the book to know. The phrasing and inflection were done well, the characters were definitely different, and the story flowed well. As mentioned above, I tend to read faster without audio, so I was especially conscious of the extended pauses between chapters, but the different voices for the characters did make it seem more “real”. I thought the narrator gave each character a distinctive voice and personality, adding a different element to my usual reading style (I tend to do that in my head), so it is interesting to have another perspective and interpretation from the one in my brain. I especially liked that part.
The story:
I enjoyed this short, low-angst tale of two men reluctantly attending a New Year’s Eve singles mixer, hoping to find someone to make a connection with, but not overly optimistic. Spencer and Jake notice each other as they approach the elevator and make small talk while waiting. Finding out they are going to the same place, they plan to stay together while they can, finding a mutual interest during their initial interactions. At the start they separate, but end up in the same group after a mistake, and things progress well from there. The New Year’s Eve is a good one, they have much in common, and begin a relationship revolving around work schedules and finding as much time together as possible. Characters are realistic and relatable in a realistic situation, finding the person who could be their forever, seemingly against the odds. There were parts that made me chuckle in a couple places and smile in quite a few others, and I felt like the relationship was in a good place with two guys who seemed destined to meet on a significant New Year’s Eve. ready to move on to build a life together.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2025
This is a short, sweet story about two lonely men who meet at a single's mixer on New Years Eve. Well, actually in the parking garage elevator on the way to the mixer. Numbered badges, with a really poor font, separate them into different groups according to a computer compatibility survey, but they are soon reunited when it turns out Jake's #91 is actually #16.
There were some cute games, seven minute speed dating and emoji icebreaking. They weren't needed.
"I go for months never meeting a guy I want to date and I meet Mr Hot as H for me before I set foot inside the door." (Jake, p 11).
Spencer must have had the same thought , because they ditch the mixer instead going out to dinner. They end up having a lot in common. Both are tired of the club scene, both are workaholics. Before the ball drops, they resolve to make it work.
I'm not sure, but I think this story may have been in an anthology. Definite deja vu. But new, or old, this was an enjoyable way to spend a little time. A good, fast read, which put a smile on my face. A fitting story as it's the last I'll read for 2025.
My only complaint Ms BL, they didn't get to see the fireworks from the hotel balcony!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There were some cute games, seven minute speed dating and emoji icebreaking. They weren't needed.
"I go for months never meeting a guy I want to date and I meet Mr Hot as H for me before I set foot inside the door." (Jake, p 11).
Spencer must have had the same thought , because they ditch the mixer instead going out to dinner. They end up having a lot in common. Both are tired of the club scene, both are workaholics. Before the ball drops, they resolve to make it work.
I'm not sure, but I think this story may have been in an anthology. Definite deja vu. But new, or old, this was an enjoyable way to spend a little time. A good, fast read, which put a smile on my face. A fitting story as it's the last I'll read for 2025.
My only complaint Ms BL, they didn't get to see the fireworks from the hotel balcony!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2026
Two guys with bad X's; see a life together on first sight
Spencer Cline and Jake Raines have experienced limited success in discovering their respective soulmates until Jake is persuaded to attend a New Year's Eve matchmaking event at an upscale hotel. Although Jake has previously attended such events without success, he recognizes Spencer immediately upon sight and perceives him as his destined partner. Despite initial obstacles, including a misprint on a badge that temporarily separates them, the two men overcome these issues and reunite.
They quickly realize their compatibility and envision a shared future. Their evenings are spent in each other's company, while their days are dedicated to professional pursuits and managing their business.
This narrative concludes with a happily ever after, characterized by warm and affectionate interactions between the two characters who develop mutual infatuation. Jake expresses gratitude that his sister, who is also his colleague, encouraged him to attend the matchmaking event.
The book was an enjoyable read, despite the dialogue being somewhat simplistic and not entirely reflecting real-life conversations. Nevertheless, the engaging story, immediate chemistry, and supportive sister contributed to making it a commendable book.
Spencer Cline and Jake Raines have experienced limited success in discovering their respective soulmates until Jake is persuaded to attend a New Year's Eve matchmaking event at an upscale hotel. Although Jake has previously attended such events without success, he recognizes Spencer immediately upon sight and perceives him as his destined partner. Despite initial obstacles, including a misprint on a badge that temporarily separates them, the two men overcome these issues and reunite.
They quickly realize their compatibility and envision a shared future. Their evenings are spent in each other's company, while their days are dedicated to professional pursuits and managing their business.
This narrative concludes with a happily ever after, characterized by warm and affectionate interactions between the two characters who develop mutual infatuation. Jake expresses gratitude that his sister, who is also his colleague, encouraged him to attend the matchmaking event.
The book was an enjoyable read, despite the dialogue being somewhat simplistic and not entirely reflecting real-life conversations. Nevertheless, the engaging story, immediate chemistry, and supportive sister contributed to making it a commendable book.
Review of advance copy
Sweet, Sexy, and Short
This is a story of two workaholics, Spencer (who works ‘at the Capitol’), and Jake (restaurant owner), who meet at a singles mixer, with a speed dating element. The two bail on the speed dating after the first rotation in favor of drinks and dinner together. Both confess they really want a relationship, but as workaholics they fear their ability to maintain one.
Maxwell does a good job making the reader believe the instant love – or at least strong attraction – between Spencer and Jake. When a crisis arises at Jake’s restaurant at the end of their first evening together, Spencer doesn’t hesitate to pitch in to help.
Midnight Fireworks is a sweet and sexy feel good short story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a story of two workaholics, Spencer (who works ‘at the Capitol’), and Jake (restaurant owner), who meet at a singles mixer, with a speed dating element. The two bail on the speed dating after the first rotation in favor of drinks and dinner together. Both confess they really want a relationship, but as workaholics they fear their ability to maintain one.
Maxwell does a good job making the reader believe the instant love – or at least strong attraction – between Spencer and Jake. When a crisis arises at Jake’s restaurant at the end of their first evening together, Spencer doesn’t hesitate to pitch in to help.
Midnight Fireworks is a sweet and sexy feel good short story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2026
This is a sweet and cute book. It is the story of Spencer Cline and Jake Raines. Spencer is a workaholic who never has time to find a relationship. Jake owns his own restaurant and pours all his time and effort into it. He too would like a relationship but doesn't think it will happen anytime soon. The two meet at a mixer and there is instant chemistry. Actually they meet on the way to the mixer and the chemistry started then. They both have to decide if they are willing to work on having a relationship. This is their story. The book is written well and is easy to read. It is a cute, quick love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
Chemistry You Can’t Ignore
This was such a sweet, easy read. Spencer and Jake felt real and relatable—two people who love their work but are quietly lonely because of it. Their meet-cute was charming, the chemistry was instant, and the wrong-number twist was fun without feeling cheesy. I really liked how the story focused on finding balance and making room for someone new without giving up what you’ve built. Cozy, heartfelt, and perfect if you enjoy low-drama romance with genuine connection. No angst, just new opportunities and love on the horizon. I smiled so much while reading this and swooned more than once.
This was such a sweet, easy read. Spencer and Jake felt real and relatable—two people who love their work but are quietly lonely because of it. Their meet-cute was charming, the chemistry was instant, and the wrong-number twist was fun without feeling cheesy. I really liked how the story focused on finding balance and making room for someone new without giving up what you’ve built. Cozy, heartfelt, and perfect if you enjoy low-drama romance with genuine connection. No angst, just new opportunities and love on the horizon. I smiled so much while reading this and swooned more than once.
Review of advance copy
Finding the right person is what we all want and to find that at a singles event on New Years Eve is amazing. Spencer is a workaholic and rarely finds time to look for his other half. Jake just opened a restaurant and wants to make it a success. The two have been coerced into attending the mixer and hit it off before it even starts. Making it work turns out to be easier than they expected. A sweet romance for the turn of the year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Have your dentist on speed dial, because you’ll need to get your teeth checked after this! So sweet! The fact that they connect prior to the mixer is even cuter than expected. And I loved how one of the other guys says “don’t let him get away”, that was super cute. Yes, it’s an insta-lust turn into insta-love, and it’s adorable. Even though is short, we see them in great and not so great circumstances, making their love story more believable. Very cute read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2026
Timing is everything! Spencer, is a workaholic who loves his job, but is lonely. Jake, is a business owner who understands the time and commitment required to grow and profit. He knows he needs to pursue a work life balance. When they meet at a mixer, the story writes itself. This is a right time, right place, right chemistry and right attitude sweet, hot story. Spencer and Jake are likeable amazing men. The universe is in the right position for everything to work out. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2026
Spencer and Jake story was a short enjoyable experience about two workaholic men that find their happiness in unexpected ways.
I really enjoyed their adventure and it was even better while listening with the narrator voices and inflexions.
I liked the little personal touches to the story, as well as he punctuated some moments in the story.
I really liked the story, the little things that brought them together, how they've grown closer, and the balance they found between their personal and professional life.
I really enjoyed their adventure and it was even better while listening with the narrator voices and inflexions.
I liked the little personal touches to the story, as well as he punctuated some moments in the story.
I really liked the story, the little things that brought them together, how they've grown closer, and the balance they found between their personal and professional life.
December 31, 2025
'Can two workaholics find time for each other in their busy schedules? With a little help from a wrong number and undeniable chemistry, they might.'
The characters were so very appealing and likeable and perfect together. Plot was well written and developed. World building was solidly drawn. All in all a great read! Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters were so very appealing and likeable and perfect together. Plot was well written and developed. World building was solidly drawn. All in all a great read! Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 3, 2026
A seriously lovely sweet and romantic New Year's Eve tale. Two workaholics, Spencer and Jake meet on the way to a singles mixer on New Year's Eve. They feel a connection right away, but get separated because they seem to be at different ends of the interest spectrum, only the number wasn't quite right. I'd love to know the story behind the older man who lost the love of his life, too. Lovely New Year's Eve fun.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 1, 2026
Good things come to those who wait or aren't looking. Jake and Spencer are working themselves and leave no room for a personal life. A unique situation presents itself in the form of a singles mixer.
Instant attraction, starving for love, and didn't know how hungry they were. A really sweet wat to ring in the new year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Instant attraction, starving for love, and didn't know how hungry they were. A really sweet wat to ring in the new year.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
December 24, 2025Midnight Fireworks was such a cute novella. Spencer and Jake, longtime singles, meet at a singles mixer. And the whole story is nothing but fireworks. Fast paced, insta-love, MM romance. The relationship they have is adorable; the way they have so many things in common, their families, careers and how deeply they want to be loved.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a short, sweet book where the two MMCs fall hard and fast. It was a feel-good story that left me with a smile.
I am glad that I took the time to pick it up and read.
No angst, no drama; all loving goodness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am glad that I took the time to pick it up and read.
No angst, no drama; all loving goodness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
ARC review
This is a happy, fun and sweet instalove short story. Two workaholics meet at a new years singles party and really hit it off. When you meet the right one it's easy to make room for them in your busy schedule.
I love it, it gives me happy vibes. Easy to read and it wont take to much of your time.
This is a happy, fun and sweet instalove short story. Two workaholics meet at a new years singles party and really hit it off. When you meet the right one it's easy to make room for them in your busy schedule.
I love it, it gives me happy vibes. Easy to read and it wont take to much of your time.
Review of advance copy
If you want a cute romance between two workaholic men trying to make a relationship work you've come to the right place. I did feel like the writing was a bit juvenile but that could just be me, I speed read through it, though I did get confused on who was who but aside from that I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2025
Midnight Fireworks is about Spencer and Jake, two workaholic who meets at the New Year's eve mixer, where they have a instant connection.
This was a short and sweet story, I liked how Spencer was there to help Jake with his restaurant.
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I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review
This was a short and sweet story, I liked how Spencer was there to help Jake with his restaurant.
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I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review
December 31, 2025
Such a lovely heartwarming journey for Jake and Spencer who are both lonely. When they meet up at a mixer fate lends a hand but they both have to make the effort to find time in their busy lives for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2025
This was a quick sweet read! Jake and Spencer are both workaholics but lonely. They find themselves at a New Year’s Eve mixer and hit it off pretty quick. This is a sweet story with two adorable guys who just want to find love. Very enjoyable read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2025
Quick, New Year's Eve romance
Spencer and Jake are both workaholics.
They meet at a New Year's Eve mixer and hit it off.
A mixup has them in each other's orbit and they realize they want more.
I loved how they immediately showed up for each other and made time in spite of their difficult work schedules.
Spencer and Jake are both workaholics.
They meet at a New Year's Eve mixer and hit it off.
A mixup has them in each other's orbit and they realize they want more.
I loved how they immediately showed up for each other and made time in spite of their difficult work schedules.
January 1, 2026
This was a very enjoyable New Year's Eve novella! Jake and Spencer are two single men in their early thirties, workaholics, and both interested in meeting the man they can settle down with. When they meet at a New Year's Eve singles mixer, they are immediately drawn to each other. Their romance is fast, passionate, and likely forever. They are just perfect for each other. This is feel-good fun!
January 6, 2026
Enjoyable, easy to read and follow story. Insta love with a new year twist. Relaxing read for an evening or a break.
Well developed characters. Good reality and background. And mandatory happy ending.
good book for fans of short insta love mm romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Well developed characters. Good reality and background. And mandatory happy ending.
good book for fans of short insta love mm romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 17, 2026
Spencer and Jake in an elevator on the way to a New Year’s singles mixer they talked got inside were handed numbers then had to go to the group the number went to. Spencer got 13 and Jake got 91 even though they had talked earlier were in different groups until Jake was told that he had his number upside down really was 16. They talked and decided that they didn’t want anyone else so they left.
March 2, 2026
I received an ARC from BL and Booksprout. Thanks
This is a sweet, light hearted romance in which two workaholics meet at a speed dating event and immediately hit it off.
But, they have some hurdles to overcome in order to make a relationship work.
Lots of:
Conversations.
Self-reflection.
Problem solving.
Compromises.
Goal setting.
More communication.
Pillow talk.
Along with romance and tenderness.
The narrator had an interesting voice. He drags out certain words and his voice rises and lowers during certain phrases.
This is a sweet, light hearted romance in which two workaholics meet at a speed dating event and immediately hit it off.
But, they have some hurdles to overcome in order to make a relationship work.
Lots of:
Conversations.
Self-reflection.
Problem solving.
Compromises.
Goal setting.
More communication.
Pillow talk.
Along with romance and tenderness.
The narrator had an interesting voice. He drags out certain words and his voice rises and lowers during certain phrases.
December 22, 2025
Spencer and Jake story was so sweet and endearing.
I liked how two workaholic guys found their happiness, how they first met, and the events that led to them being together.
It was short and sweet, and full of good feelings.
* this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
I liked how two workaholic guys found their happiness, how they first met, and the events that led to them being together.
It was short and sweet, and full of good feelings.
* this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
December 31, 2025
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked how two lonely men who wanted more met at a mixer and hit it off. Jake and Spencer make time in their busy lives for each other and fall in love.
January 2, 2026
I really enjoyed this story. This was a perfect New Years story with some wonderful characters and a great storyline. This was a really fun read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 2, 2026
I really enjoyed this story about how Spencer and Jake two workaholics meet at a New Year’s event and connect their chemistry is instant and with the help of a mix up they get their hea and I got to read a sweet well written novella.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews