Super short and sweet! Not to mention sexy *fans herself*! Taste of Midnight is a free Amazon kindle, M/M romance by author Keira Andrews.

I never would have imagined that a short story less than 20 pages could pack such a punch! I’ve been really enjoy short stories and novellas as I outline and draft my own books (realizing that I might prefer writing shorter stories than novels – but that’s a story for another day). Sometimes I just want something short because goodness knows my attention span doesn’t last long on…most days.

The pacing of the story was perfect! Stephen and Xavier meet at the most symbolically dreary place…the DMV. It showcased just how boring and basic Stephen’s life was. But Xavier strikes up a conversation with him about traveling, something Stephen only ever dreams about but never had the courage to do. The two go out on a date and after a passionate night in bed, Stephen is met with several surprises that will spice up his routine life. Will Stephen have the courage to step out of his comfort zone and learn to enjoy life again? Happy ending included!

They’re relationship is super sweet. At first Stephen believes Xavier might just be using him as a quick meal. He soon realizes that the vampire truly does care for him and wants the heartbroken, tax lawyer to leave the hurts of the past behind to fully live again.

It provides enough backstory to get to know the characters and keep it as a short story. It is an erotica so the love interests jump into sex real quick (so don’t be surprise at how fast their romance accelerates). But beyond just sexy times, I really loved the overall theme and message of the story. The relatable feeling of being stuck in work or fearful from past hurts that we stop seizing the day (and night). And ironically, it took an undead person to bring Stephen back to life!

I would have liked more details and explanation on the paranormal elements. The setting is in San Francisco, which I assume has enough overcast weather that vampires won’t burn in the iconic California sun because Xavier was out during the day at the DMV. Wasn’t exactly sure on the vampire characteristics of this book though (because you know every paranormal creature/species is unique and different in various universes, like Twilight v. Trueblood vampires). Seems like he can go out during the day so long as there isn’t sunlight?

Although we get a lot of information about Stephen, there is little known about Xavier. How old is he really (vampire age)? Where does he live? Was he just visiting the town (because it sounded like he travels a lot)? Did he know Stephen before, seen him before? AHHHH! I want to know more about our mysterious vampire! Maybe if there’s ever an extended version or sequel, we can see how their relationship develops further and get more details about Xavier.

Also, as sweet as the love scene was, I was a little concerned when Stephen wasn’t more alarmed when Xavier bit him and drank from him. He just accepted it! Apparently Xavier seduced Stephen’s brains out so he just went with the biting and drinking during sex. That’s cool! I’m all for it!

Overall, I loved this story so much!! It’s got heartbreak, new love, tenderness and sexiness and I have re-read it countless times (the beauty of such a short read)!! I wished it was longer to tell a more robust story and to allow a better buildup in Stephen and Xavier’s romance.