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Midnight #1
Midnight Exposure
Point, click, die.
When two hikers disappear, their hometown in Maine blames the blinding storms. But the truth is far more sinister. Unaware of the danger, tabloid photographer Jayne Sullivan follows an anonymous tip to find the most reclusive sculptor in the art world. Instead, she finds sexy handyman Reed Kimball—and a small town full of fatal secrets.
Five years ago, Reed buried his homicide detective career along with his wife. But when a hiker is found dead, the local police chief asks Reed for help. Why was a Celtic coin found under the body? And where is the second hiker? Avoiding the media, Reed doesn’t need a murder, a missing person, or a nosey photographer. Then Jayne is attacked, and her courage is his undoing.
Reed must risk everything to protect her - and find a cunning killer.
When two hikers disappear, their hometown in Maine blames the blinding storms. But the truth is far more sinister. Unaware of the danger, tabloid photographer Jayne Sullivan follows an anonymous tip to find the most reclusive sculptor in the art world. Instead, she finds sexy handyman Reed Kimball—and a small town full of fatal secrets.
Five years ago, Reed buried his homicide detective career along with his wife. But when a hiker is found dead, the local police chief asks Reed for help. Why was a Celtic coin found under the body? And where is the second hiker? Avoiding the media, Reed doesn’t need a murder, a missing person, or a nosey photographer. Then Jayne is attacked, and her courage is his undoing.
Reed must risk everything to protect her - and find a cunning killer.
306 pages, Paperback
First published August 21, 2012
7,775 people are currently reading
5,181 people want to read
About the author
Melinda Leigh
50books21.5kfollowers#1 Wall Street Journal and #1 Amazon bestselling author Melinda Leigh is a fully recovered banker who learned that writing books is way more fun than analyzing financial statements. Melinda’s debut novel, SHE CAN RUN, was nominated for Best First Novel by the International Thriller Writers. Since then, she has garnered numerous writing accolades, including two RITA® Award nominations and an induction into the NJ Romance Writers Hall of Fame. Her novels have sold more than 15 million copies across the world. Melinda loves martial arts, rescue dogs, and sea turtles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 784 reviews
January 7, 2022
Doesn't hit the spot
Unfortunately this first book in the series didn't grab me. I might try to read another book in the series. This one was just kind of all over the place and nothing really works once you started getting into the book. And the romance just felt like it came out of nowhere.
"Midnight Exposure" follows a photographer named Jayne Sullivan who has come to Maine to get exclusive pictures of a sculptor. Instead she becomes the focus of a serial killer while there. She also starts to have some "feelings" for a widowed former police officer, Reed Kimball.
So there was just too much "stuff" going on that does not allow you time to enjoy either the suspense or romance portions of this book. We also get into the "head" of the serial killer and the why behind things was just....a lot.
I didn't feel any chemistry between Jayne and Reed. It was so bizarre that he stares at her and then within seconds wants to be with her. There are other secondary characters and I realized after I finish this book the series continues with Jayne's brothers and I am going to just say no to finishing any other books.
Unfortunately this first book in the series didn't grab me. I might try to read another book in the series. This one was just kind of all over the place and nothing really works once you started getting into the book. And the romance just felt like it came out of nowhere.
"Midnight Exposure" follows a photographer named Jayne Sullivan who has come to Maine to get exclusive pictures of a sculptor. Instead she becomes the focus of a serial killer while there. She also starts to have some "feelings" for a widowed former police officer, Reed Kimball.
So there was just too much "stuff" going on that does not allow you time to enjoy either the suspense or romance portions of this book. We also get into the "head" of the serial killer and the why behind things was just....a lot.
I didn't feel any chemistry between Jayne and Reed. It was so bizarre that he stares at her and then within seconds wants to be with her. There are other secondary characters and I realized after I finish this book the series continues with Jayne's brothers and I am going to just say no to finishing any other books.
March 24, 2017
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Rating: 3.5 Stars
I started this suspense series, Midnight Exposure (Midnight, #1) by Melinda Leigh, because I really enjoy her Scarlet Falls series. (Check them out!)
Jayne Sullivan makes her money as a photographer and occasionally for the big money as a tabloid photographer. She is sent to Maine in December to find and photograph the reclusive sculptor R.S. Morgan. She hates being deceitful, but she needs the money to help her brothers with the family bar in Philly and medical bills for her youngest brother. She is glad to be away from Philly at the moment also, to get away from a stalker who attacked her and has gone to prison, but he is out and had promised to come for her again.
At the address her editor gave her she meets Reed Kimball. Reed had moved to Maine with his son after the death of his wife. He was a homicide detective in his old life, but now acts as a handyman around town and has a secret in his barn turned work shed out behind his home. He hides his true identity from all, but the police chief in town. Jayne does not know the connection between Reed and R.S. Morgan and before she can find out she is abducted. She escapes on her own in a blizzard. Reed finds her and takes her to his home.
Both Reed and Jayne are hiding secrets and motives, but they can’t help but continually be attracted to each other. As the sexual tension increases, so does the threat to Jayne from an unknown source which could prove to be deadly.
This was a fast paced and exciting read in the first chapter and then again after a few. I just felt it bogged down for a while after the first chapter. I also had a problem with how long it took Reed to tell Jayne about his past. He was reclusive over something that he was proved innocent of doing and after a new scandal comes along, I think the media would have left him and his son alone. He did not even stay in the same town, he moved far away.
The Celtic druid facts were interesting and so was the reason for the killings. I do not understand why the other family member was involved though. I do not understand how he could believe a madman. It was a stretch for me. That said, I still like Ms. Leigh’s writing style and will continue on with this series. Not a bad book, but just not my favorite by this author.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I started this suspense series, Midnight Exposure (Midnight, #1) by Melinda Leigh, because I really enjoy her Scarlet Falls series. (Check them out!)
Jayne Sullivan makes her money as a photographer and occasionally for the big money as a tabloid photographer. She is sent to Maine in December to find and photograph the reclusive sculptor R.S. Morgan. She hates being deceitful, but she needs the money to help her brothers with the family bar in Philly and medical bills for her youngest brother. She is glad to be away from Philly at the moment also, to get away from a stalker who attacked her and has gone to prison, but he is out and had promised to come for her again.
At the address her editor gave her she meets Reed Kimball. Reed had moved to Maine with his son after the death of his wife. He was a homicide detective in his old life, but now acts as a handyman around town and has a secret in his barn turned work shed out behind his home. He hides his true identity from all, but the police chief in town. Jayne does not know the connection between Reed and R.S. Morgan and before she can find out she is abducted. She escapes on her own in a blizzard. Reed finds her and takes her to his home.
Both Reed and Jayne are hiding secrets and motives, but they can’t help but continually be attracted to each other. As the sexual tension increases, so does the threat to Jayne from an unknown source which could prove to be deadly.
This was a fast paced and exciting read in the first chapter and then again after a few. I just felt it bogged down for a while after the first chapter. I also had a problem with how long it took Reed to tell Jayne about his past. He was reclusive over something that he was proved innocent of doing and after a new scandal comes along, I think the media would have left him and his son alone. He did not even stay in the same town, he moved far away.
The Celtic druid facts were interesting and so was the reason for the killings. I do not understand why the other family member was involved though. I do not understand how he could believe a madman. It was a stretch for me. That said, I still like Ms. Leigh’s writing style and will continue on with this series. Not a bad book, but just not my favorite by this author.
May 6, 2018
Halfway through and I have to admit that I'm disappointed in this one. Even it features mature (the h is 30 and the H is old enough to have a 17 year old son), the MCs act like teenagers. The H is afraid to "live again" after his wife's death and the h has a lot of baggage due to an assault. Neither of them want to be attracted to the other and so they push and pull and push and pull. The attraction they feel is pretty superficial, the secrets are being dragged out way longer than normal for this author, and I'm having a hard time recognizing this as a Melinda Leigh book.
Upon finishing, I'd give this 1.5 stars. The romance rated one star and the mystery was two stars. Unfortunately, this was the first Melinda Leigh book that I found boring and annoying. I'm not sure if I'm going to continue on with this series, but I will definitely continue with Morgan Dane. I adore her and Lance. :)
Upon finishing, I'd give this 1.5 stars. The romance rated one star and the mystery was two stars. Unfortunately, this was the first Melinda Leigh book that I found boring and annoying. I'm not sure if I'm going to continue on with this series, but I will definitely continue with Morgan Dane. I adore her and Lance. :)
June 6, 2016
☆☆☆☆� 5 Sacrificial Stars ☆☆☆☆�
Well, well well.....this book was DAMN good and I have to say I was not expecting the secrets, twists and turns.
Jayne is a photographer that has swallowed her pride and is trying to get a photo of the recluse sculptor, R S Morgan. Traveling to Maine to find her photo muse for a tabloid magazine, Jayne steps into one mess after another after meeting Reed Kimball, a single father and a retired cop.
Reed has secrets that need to remain hidden for the safety of his son and their quiet lives. Reeds knows he must stay far away from Jayne, but life has other ideas for these two. Especially after Jayne is abducted.
Reed must find her. Not knowing what the reasoning for her abduction is, Reed is tossed into a world that this small Maine town had no idea about.
Jane's abduction is not the first fight of her life she has had. She knows if she doesn't fight with everything she has, she will never get a chance again.
Escaping the evil lands her right back into the hands of Reed an no amount of will power can hold of the intensity between Reed and Jayne.
"His need to hold her, to mark her, to become part of her, was primitive, as demanding as the need to take his next breath.
The present fight for survival mixed with a past of secrets and devastation, Reed and Jayne take us in whirlwind battle against the evil after them and the ones they love.
◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇�
My favorite kind of book!! Suspenseful, thrilling, sexually charged page turner that leaves you NEEDING to know what is going to happen!!!
Not only are the MC'S easy to love by the supporting characters are awesome and we know they have their own stories!
Perfect Miss Leigh!!! Book 2....I can't wait!!
Well, well well.....this book was DAMN good and I have to say I was not expecting the secrets, twists and turns.
Jayne is a photographer that has swallowed her pride and is trying to get a photo of the recluse sculptor, R S Morgan. Traveling to Maine to find her photo muse for a tabloid magazine, Jayne steps into one mess after another after meeting Reed Kimball, a single father and a retired cop.
Reed has secrets that need to remain hidden for the safety of his son and their quiet lives. Reeds knows he must stay far away from Jayne, but life has other ideas for these two. Especially after Jayne is abducted.
Reed must find her. Not knowing what the reasoning for her abduction is, Reed is tossed into a world that this small Maine town had no idea about.
Jane's abduction is not the first fight of her life she has had. She knows if she doesn't fight with everything she has, she will never get a chance again.
Escaping the evil lands her right back into the hands of Reed an no amount of will power can hold of the intensity between Reed and Jayne.
"His need to hold her, to mark her, to become part of her, was primitive, as demanding as the need to take his next breath.
The present fight for survival mixed with a past of secrets and devastation, Reed and Jayne take us in whirlwind battle against the evil after them and the ones they love.
◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇◇�
My favorite kind of book!! Suspenseful, thrilling, sexually charged page turner that leaves you NEEDING to know what is going to happen!!!
Not only are the MC'S easy to love by the supporting characters are awesome and we know they have their own stories!
Perfect Miss Leigh!!! Book 2....I can't wait!!
September 3, 2018
I quite enjoyed listening to this mystery thriller. I preferred Say You're Sorry, which is part of another series by this author, but I would still consider trying book two in this series.
I borrowed this in audiobook format through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
I borrowed this in audiobook format through Amazon Kindle Unlimited.
September 13, 2012
I read Melinda Leigh's first book, She Can Run, earlier this year but haven't reviewed it yet. However, I do remember that there were a lot of pluses in her first outing and a few negatives. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and really am pleased to see a lot of growth between that first novel and this one.
This story follows Jayne, who is a photographer trying to make money for her family (three brothers). They all run a bar together in Philadelphia. One of her brothers is suffering from PTSD after serving in the Middle East and his hospital bills are mounting. Jayne has taken on some tabloid photography assignments because, even though she hates them, they pay the best. She's on the tail of a reclusive sculptor, trying to get pictures for a tabloid magazine. This leads her to a small town in Maine, where former detective Reed Kimball is raising his son.
Before Jayne arrived, two high school hikers have disappeared. One body has turned up, but the other hiker is still missing. Jayne becomes wrapped up in the mysterious doings of this small town. Jayne has already suffered an attack from a serial killer and is understandably on edge when someone is clearly stalking her.
Of course, there are a lot of foregone conclusions: there will be a romance between the two main characters, Reed will be drawn back into police work to protect Jayne, etc. But the characters come alive and that makes the journey, while predictable in many areas, exciting. I cared about what happened to them, even the supporting cast.
I highly recommend this.
This story follows Jayne, who is a photographer trying to make money for her family (three brothers). They all run a bar together in Philadelphia. One of her brothers is suffering from PTSD after serving in the Middle East and his hospital bills are mounting. Jayne has taken on some tabloid photography assignments because, even though she hates them, they pay the best. She's on the tail of a reclusive sculptor, trying to get pictures for a tabloid magazine. This leads her to a small town in Maine, where former detective Reed Kimball is raising his son.
Before Jayne arrived, two high school hikers have disappeared. One body has turned up, but the other hiker is still missing. Jayne becomes wrapped up in the mysterious doings of this small town. Jayne has already suffered an attack from a serial killer and is understandably on edge when someone is clearly stalking her.
Of course, there are a lot of foregone conclusions: there will be a romance between the two main characters, Reed will be drawn back into police work to protect Jayne, etc. But the characters come alive and that makes the journey, while predictable in many areas, exciting. I cared about what happened to them, even the supporting cast.
I highly recommend this.
July 19, 2024
4 Faced paced stars!!
Jayne, a tabloid photographer finds herself in Maine looking to get a photo of a reclusive famous artist. Boy did she get more than she bargained for. I enjoyed watching her relationship with Reed grow, they had great banter and worked great together as they tried to solve the mystery of a murdered hiker.
This was a great faced paced, suspense filled read that held my interest from start to finish.
Jayne, a tabloid photographer finds herself in Maine looking to get a photo of a reclusive famous artist. Boy did she get more than she bargained for. I enjoyed watching her relationship with Reed grow, they had great banter and worked great together as they tried to solve the mystery of a murdered hiker.
This was a great faced paced, suspense filled read that held my interest from start to finish.
May 5, 2020
This was down-rated for the horrible narrator (). Men who make women sound like screeching, helpless imbeciles should not narrate books with women protagonists. Period. That was horrible!
Other than that it was a solid story, but some of the lying I could definitely have done without, and the two unnecessarily detailed intimate scenes didn't enhance anything.
Other than that it was a solid story, but some of the lying I could definitely have done without, and the two unnecessarily detailed intimate scenes didn't enhance anything.
July 10, 2022
Midnight Exposure is book one in the Midnight series by Melinda Leigh. Photographer Jayne Sullivan travelled to a small town in Maine to find a famous sculptor. However, she met Reed Kimball and became involved in the mystery that surrounded the small community. The local police chief needs Reed's help, a retired law enforcement officer, in finding a couple of local boys whose mystery went missing. However, he kept saying no until Jayne went missing. The readers will continue to follow Reed and Jayne to discover what happens.
Midnight Exposure is a fantastic start to new series by Melinda Leigh. I enjoy reading Melinda Leigh's books, and Midnight Exposure kept up the tradition with her books, and I engage with Midnight Exposure from the first page. I do love Melinda Leigh's writing style, and Melinda excellently did the research for Midnight Exposure. The way Melinda Leigh portrays her characters and their interaction with each other is done excellently by Melinda. I like Melinda Leigh's description of the setting of Midnight Exposure.
The readers of Midnight Exposure will learn about the rare genetic disease called Fatal Familial Insomnia and the consequences for suffers and their families. Also, the readers of Midnight Exposure will understand the role of the paparazzo.
I recommend this book.
Midnight Exposure is a fantastic start to new series by Melinda Leigh. I enjoy reading Melinda Leigh's books, and Midnight Exposure kept up the tradition with her books, and I engage with Midnight Exposure from the first page. I do love Melinda Leigh's writing style, and Melinda excellently did the research for Midnight Exposure. The way Melinda Leigh portrays her characters and their interaction with each other is done excellently by Melinda. I like Melinda Leigh's description of the setting of Midnight Exposure.
The readers of Midnight Exposure will learn about the rare genetic disease called Fatal Familial Insomnia and the consequences for suffers and their families. Also, the readers of Midnight Exposure will understand the role of the paparazzo.
I recommend this book.
May 18, 2024
Midnight Exposure came up recently as a recommendation on my Kindle and despite having never heard of it, I decided to check it out and I'm so glad I did as I ended up really enjoying it!
Jayne Sullivan has taken a photography job with a tabloid to help pay for her brother's medical bills and she's tasked with getting a picture of a reclusive artist in Maine. Kidnapped soon after she arrives, she escapes only to be drawn into an insane game of cat and mouse with a killer obsessed with Celtic culture and Druid rituals.
Right from the start, I really liked Jayne as a character. She's incredibly strong and very capable of looking out for herself. After a past trauma, she took the time to learn to defend herself which helps her out on more than one occasion over the course of Midnight Exposure. I also like that she's able to talk herself down when mentally she reaches her breaking point and doesn't need a man to do that for her. Reed is incredibly supportive of Jayne and thinks its amazing how well she's able to handle herself, but he's also there for her when she does want his support. The romance develops naturally and is very believable for developing over a short period of time. The chemistry between Jayne and Reed certainly helped in that department.
The killer being obsessed with Celtic culture and Druid rituals made the suspense part of the plot really interesting. The killer's motives were fascinating and not what I was expecting. I had a few guesses of who the killer may be and one of those guesses ended up being correct. Being right on who the killer was didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book at all though. I still very much enjoyed finding out the whys and for the 'final showdown' romantic suspense books always have.
Overall, Midnight Exposure was a very enjoyable read and I definitely recommend it to fans of the romantic suspense genre or anyone looking for a quick read.
Jayne Sullivan has taken a photography job with a tabloid to help pay for her brother's medical bills and she's tasked with getting a picture of a reclusive artist in Maine. Kidnapped soon after she arrives, she escapes only to be drawn into an insane game of cat and mouse with a killer obsessed with Celtic culture and Druid rituals.
Right from the start, I really liked Jayne as a character. She's incredibly strong and very capable of looking out for herself. After a past trauma, she took the time to learn to defend herself which helps her out on more than one occasion over the course of Midnight Exposure. I also like that she's able to talk herself down when mentally she reaches her breaking point and doesn't need a man to do that for her. Reed is incredibly supportive of Jayne and thinks its amazing how well she's able to handle herself, but he's also there for her when she does want his support. The romance develops naturally and is very believable for developing over a short period of time. The chemistry between Jayne and Reed certainly helped in that department.
The killer being obsessed with Celtic culture and Druid rituals made the suspense part of the plot really interesting. The killer's motives were fascinating and not what I was expecting. I had a few guesses of who the killer may be and one of those guesses ended up being correct. Being right on who the killer was didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book at all though. I still very much enjoyed finding out the whys and for the 'final showdown' romantic suspense books always have.
Overall, Midnight Exposure was a very enjoyable read and I definitely recommend it to fans of the romantic suspense genre or anyone looking for a quick read.
December 17, 2018
This is an earlier series by ML that is not nearly the same caliber as the Morgan Dane series (which I absolutely love).
There was too much angst and insta love for me which reduced my reading enjoyment. And when Reed comes clean about his background, saying no secrets is important, Jayne keeps the paparazzi secret. Huge disappointment in her character.
There is a really big open thread that leads into book #2. I'm debating whether I continue this series. Love this author, just didn't like this book.
There was too much angst and insta love for me which reduced my reading enjoyment. And when Reed comes clean about his background, saying no secrets is important, Jayne keeps the paparazzi secret. Huge disappointment in her character.
There is a really big open thread that leads into book #2. I'm debating whether I continue this series. Love this author, just didn't like this book.
October 25, 2012
Midnight Exposure is a gripping romantic suspense thriller that will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat.
While on a camping/hiking trip in the snowy woods of Maine, college roommates Zack and John for the past two days have become lost in a blinding snowstorm. October 31st ... Halloween ... while searching for signs of civilization they smell smoke and hear faint murmurs of people's voices, they come to a clearing and spot a fire burning and run into a cloaked man with a knife ... unfortunately they are at the wrong place at the wrong time ... One of the hiker's body has been discovered, but the other hiker is still missing.
Two months later on December 15th, photographer Jayne Sullivan, in an attempt to financially help her three brothers save their tavern in Philadelphia, and help pay for brother Danny's Iraq combat related medical bills, has reluctantly taken on an assignment with a one-week deadline for a sleazy tabloid, and traveled to Huntsville, Maine, to track down and photograph the reclusive renowned sculptor, R.S. Morgan.
Reed Kimball is an ex-Georgia police detective, who has moved with his seventeen year old son, Scott, to Huntsville, Maine, after the murder of his wife. Seeking seclusion in his forest retreat, this reclusive man is determined to keep his new beginning as a sculptor from being revealed.
While searching for the reculsive sculptor, Jayne runs into Reed, who claims to be a handyman. There is an undeniable attraction between them, but secrets from their past, and a serial killer who has targeted Jayne as his next victim, threatens their budding relationship and survival.
Midnight Exposure is a riveting fast-paced romantic suspense thriller that will captivate the reader's attention and keep them guessing. Author Melinda Leigh weaves an intriguing tale written in the third person narrative with alternating perspectives from Jayne, Reed and the villain. The story is full of complicated twists and turns that will keep the reader on their toes as the mystery of the characters' and town's secrets unfold. The author's creative writing style tantalizes the reader with clues behind Jayne and Reed's past and secrets coupled with an intriguing look into the mysterious Druid cult's customs and sacrificial rituals. With a great mixture of mystery, suspense and romance, Midnight Exposure is one heck of a page turning thriller that you won't be able to put down.
The author creates a cast of characters who are realistic and complex people, with past histories and secrets that draw you into their lives. Jayne and Reed both wear scars from their troubled pasts, there is a palpable emotional pull of strength and feelings that they embrace as survivors. I loved how the author portrayed the villain, he is one creepy dude that is seriously demented, I couldn't help but be intrigued by his obsession with Jayne. With a great supporting cast of characters, a scenic setting rich in detail and vivid description, and a riveting storyline that is so chilling and leaves the reader with an anti-climatic cliffhanger, Midnight Exposure is the first book in a series that will keep you wanting more. The second book in the series, Midnight Sacrifice, will be released in Spring 2013, it will pick up the storyline with the story surrounding around Jayne's brother Danny.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review, and for hosting a virtual book event on my book review blog site.
While on a camping/hiking trip in the snowy woods of Maine, college roommates Zack and John for the past two days have become lost in a blinding snowstorm. October 31st ... Halloween ... while searching for signs of civilization they smell smoke and hear faint murmurs of people's voices, they come to a clearing and spot a fire burning and run into a cloaked man with a knife ... unfortunately they are at the wrong place at the wrong time ... One of the hiker's body has been discovered, but the other hiker is still missing.
Two months later on December 15th, photographer Jayne Sullivan, in an attempt to financially help her three brothers save their tavern in Philadelphia, and help pay for brother Danny's Iraq combat related medical bills, has reluctantly taken on an assignment with a one-week deadline for a sleazy tabloid, and traveled to Huntsville, Maine, to track down and photograph the reclusive renowned sculptor, R.S. Morgan.
Reed Kimball is an ex-Georgia police detective, who has moved with his seventeen year old son, Scott, to Huntsville, Maine, after the murder of his wife. Seeking seclusion in his forest retreat, this reclusive man is determined to keep his new beginning as a sculptor from being revealed.
While searching for the reculsive sculptor, Jayne runs into Reed, who claims to be a handyman. There is an undeniable attraction between them, but secrets from their past, and a serial killer who has targeted Jayne as his next victim, threatens their budding relationship and survival.
Midnight Exposure is a riveting fast-paced romantic suspense thriller that will captivate the reader's attention and keep them guessing. Author Melinda Leigh weaves an intriguing tale written in the third person narrative with alternating perspectives from Jayne, Reed and the villain. The story is full of complicated twists and turns that will keep the reader on their toes as the mystery of the characters' and town's secrets unfold. The author's creative writing style tantalizes the reader with clues behind Jayne and Reed's past and secrets coupled with an intriguing look into the mysterious Druid cult's customs and sacrificial rituals. With a great mixture of mystery, suspense and romance, Midnight Exposure is one heck of a page turning thriller that you won't be able to put down.
The author creates a cast of characters who are realistic and complex people, with past histories and secrets that draw you into their lives. Jayne and Reed both wear scars from their troubled pasts, there is a palpable emotional pull of strength and feelings that they embrace as survivors. I loved how the author portrayed the villain, he is one creepy dude that is seriously demented, I couldn't help but be intrigued by his obsession with Jayne. With a great supporting cast of characters, a scenic setting rich in detail and vivid description, and a riveting storyline that is so chilling and leaves the reader with an anti-climatic cliffhanger, Midnight Exposure is the first book in a series that will keep you wanting more. The second book in the series, Midnight Sacrifice, will be released in Spring 2013, it will pick up the storyline with the story surrounding around Jayne's brother Danny.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review, and for hosting a virtual book event on my book review blog site.
May 13, 2021
I had fairly high hopes for Midnight Exposure. I wanted a new series and like a good romantic suspense. I'm not the biggest fan of 'police/detective' suspense as I get lost with the positions of the characters and find them too much, so thought this one would be great for me with that aspect (And it was). But this one fell a little short for me for a few reasons, although I should add these are all personal dislikes and many others have loved the book.
Firstly the push/pull of Reed and Jayne. Talk about dragged out. In fact it got to the point where I was screaming at them to either get on with it or leave each other alone. I'm sure others loved the tension building between them but for me it felt more sexual attraction than a connection till a lot later on. I did think that both Reed and Jayne were well written characters though. Having both suffered trauma prior to where the story begins I felt their pains and worries. I loved the setting and the close knit community of the town. I also enjoyed the whole 'mystery' (I won't give spoilers into that but its a subject I always find fascinating in books) and the guessing game of 'who' was responsible and why. My other thing I wasn't keen on though was the dragged out feel of the story. Although action packed there were scenes I wondered what their relevance was. The author (Melinda) was building the story and giving us background which I got, but again sometimes it helps if there is a little more than bread 'dust' and instead more bread 'crumbs'.
I read Midnight Exposure over 24 hours and although the story was good and had good characters that were well written and almost life like, I came away feeling a bit unsatisfied. I think I built this series up a bit too much before reading it and was expecting more. So like I said at the beginning of this book this is definitely a case of, 'It's me not you' syndrome. A solid 3.5 stars but I honestly thought this would be a 4 if not a 4.5 book for me. I probably will pick up more of the series but I'll be leaving it alone for now and coming back to it in the future.
Firstly the push/pull of Reed and Jayne. Talk about dragged out. In fact it got to the point where I was screaming at them to either get on with it or leave each other alone. I'm sure others loved the tension building between them but for me it felt more sexual attraction than a connection till a lot later on. I did think that both Reed and Jayne were well written characters though. Having both suffered trauma prior to where the story begins I felt their pains and worries. I loved the setting and the close knit community of the town. I also enjoyed the whole 'mystery' (I won't give spoilers into that but its a subject I always find fascinating in books) and the guessing game of 'who' was responsible and why. My other thing I wasn't keen on though was the dragged out feel of the story. Although action packed there were scenes I wondered what their relevance was. The author (Melinda) was building the story and giving us background which I got, but again sometimes it helps if there is a little more than bread 'dust' and instead more bread 'crumbs'.
I read Midnight Exposure over 24 hours and although the story was good and had good characters that were well written and almost life like, I came away feeling a bit unsatisfied. I think I built this series up a bit too much before reading it and was expecting more. So like I said at the beginning of this book this is definitely a case of, 'It's me not you' syndrome. A solid 3.5 stars but I honestly thought this would be a 4 if not a 4.5 book for me. I probably will pick up more of the series but I'll be leaving it alone for now and coming back to it in the future.
August 30, 2012
Nothing gets the blood pumping like a crazed, homicidal Druid bent on ritual human sacrifice.
Leigh's style is competent and refreshingly plot-heavy, with the romantic elements introduced without force or hurry, despite the one-week time constraint. The hero and heroine are both believable and endearing from early on. And this reviewer particularly appreciated the accurate mentionings of the thrice-killed 'bog bodies' believed to have been a part of ancient Druid rituals intended to ward off an impending Roman invasion.
Unfortunately, I can't readily recommend this book, as the copy I received was clearly in need of another editorial sweep--aggravatingly riddled with grammatical errors. (Hopefully, it wasn't the final product.) Metaphors are plentiful to the point of distraction, and there were a few too many tidy coincidences driving the plot.
The third-person limited viewpoint changes worked well for the first half of the book, primarily alternating between the hero, heroine, and villain. But then as it went on, some readers may find the narrative a bit cluttered as a number of side-character perspectives are added but not repeated. Closure is also a bit lacking, but that could easily be a result of setup--designating this book as the first in an interconnected series.
Leigh's style is competent and refreshingly plot-heavy, with the romantic elements introduced without force or hurry, despite the one-week time constraint. The hero and heroine are both believable and endearing from early on. And this reviewer particularly appreciated the accurate mentionings of the thrice-killed 'bog bodies' believed to have been a part of ancient Druid rituals intended to ward off an impending Roman invasion.
Unfortunately, I can't readily recommend this book, as the copy I received was clearly in need of another editorial sweep--aggravatingly riddled with grammatical errors. (Hopefully, it wasn't the final product.) Metaphors are plentiful to the point of distraction, and there were a few too many tidy coincidences driving the plot.
The third-person limited viewpoint changes worked well for the first half of the book, primarily alternating between the hero, heroine, and villain. But then as it went on, some readers may find the narrative a bit cluttered as a number of side-character perspectives are added but not repeated. Closure is also a bit lacking, but that could easily be a result of setup--designating this book as the first in an interconnected series.
August 24, 2012
Another exciting thriller from Melinda Leigh. You are shocked within the first 5 pages. Some would fear what is to come after those pages but if you love a good thrilling ride with a side of romance then step on board and hang on.
Jayne Sullivan is a photographer and has come to town looking for the illusive sculptor her sleazy tabloid boss sent her to expose. She doesn't want to do the job but she needs the money because she feels guilty about not being about to financially help out her brothers. She hasnt had an easy time of it as she was attacked when she was in college and wears the scar from it on her face.
Reed Kimball quit his job as a homicide detective and took his son and fled the city 5 years ago when his wife was killed and a media storm converges on them. Reed is also full of scars but his are on the inside.
From the outside the little town of Huntsville, Maine looks like a quite peaceful town. What no one realizes is a killer with an agenda is among them.
From the first page until the last page our heroine is put through the ringer. There are a few threads not wrapped up at the end of the book. The author has done a great job of hooking this reader for future books in this series.
Jayne Sullivan is a photographer and has come to town looking for the illusive sculptor her sleazy tabloid boss sent her to expose. She doesn't want to do the job but she needs the money because she feels guilty about not being about to financially help out her brothers. She hasnt had an easy time of it as she was attacked when she was in college and wears the scar from it on her face.
Reed Kimball quit his job as a homicide detective and took his son and fled the city 5 years ago when his wife was killed and a media storm converges on them. Reed is also full of scars but his are on the inside.
From the outside the little town of Huntsville, Maine looks like a quite peaceful town. What no one realizes is a killer with an agenda is among them.
From the first page until the last page our heroine is put through the ringer. There are a few threads not wrapped up at the end of the book. The author has done a great job of hooking this reader for future books in this series.
January 30, 2020
This was on a Best of Romantic Suspense list and while I would not agree it was still passable entertainment.
I enjoyed that it was set in small town Maine, that the woman saved herself (twice), and the old world religious references.
December 8, 2013
This is the first time I've read Melinda Leigh but certainly NOT the last.
If you're looking for someone new to send chills up and down your spine, check this author out.
If you're looking for someone new to send chills up and down your spine, check this author out.
April 28, 2013
A very good suspence, but I just couldn't feel the lurve between H/h.
March 29, 2018
3 stars - Romantic Suspense
April 1, 2018
*Actual rating 2.5 stars*
I haven't found a romantic suspense novel I've truly enjoyed since the late 1980s, when I binge-read Mary Higgins Clark, and it's hard to say exactly why I can't warm up to this genre. I love romance and I love thrillers and psychological suspense, but for some reason when the two get mixed together, it's usually an awkward reading experience for me. As much as I would love to say that Midnight Exposure is the book that bucked the trend, sadly, that would not be true. However, I can state that it was mildly entertaining despite some of the cringe-worthy moments it gave me.
On the plus side, it is a novel about people being stalked and killed by a homicidal Druid in the Maine woods. Maybe I'm morbid, but that's a fun idea for a thriller. Also, the hero and heroine were both relatively likable...at least likable enough I didn't want them to die. And it was a quick, mindless sort of read, which I am often in the mood for these days.
But as to what I didn't like...the simile and metaphor-laden writing and the abundance of cliches. WARNING: mild spoilers to follow. (But I don't give away anything important, like the bad guy's identity. Although if you've read very many suspense novels, you will probably figure that out right away.)
To start with, the heroine, Jayne, is working as a tabloid photographer despite her scruples because she has to pay for her little brother's medical bills. (If I had a dollar for every character in a contemporary romance novel who struggles to pay off a relative's medical bills, I'd have enough money to pay for someone else's medical bills, or at least a doctor visit. It's like the easy shorthand to have a character do something weird or problematic for money and still be portrayed as good and noble.)
And Jayne has such a tragic history--orphaned at twelve, gave up her carefree youth to cook and clean for her brothers, attacked and almost killed by a stalker in college (so she has to drop out). Then it turns out that the hero, Reed, also has a tragic backstory! Honestly, why can't anyone in this type of novel just be normal? Why always so wounded and tragic?
Another cliche--of course, the police are completely incompetent. Prior to Jayne's arrival, two hikers disappeared in the area and then one of them's decapitated body is found. And the police are like, "Well, let's not go crazy folks, we don't know it was murder. This young man could very well have been decapitated by natural causes."
But as I said, despite a lot of silliness, it was an okay story. I doubt I will read more by this author, but I'm not wishing I could invent a time machine just to get back the hours of my life it took to read it.
Read for Unapologetic Romance Readers 2018 challenge: Romantic Suspense category
I haven't found a romantic suspense novel I've truly enjoyed since the late 1980s, when I binge-read Mary Higgins Clark, and it's hard to say exactly why I can't warm up to this genre. I love romance and I love thrillers and psychological suspense, but for some reason when the two get mixed together, it's usually an awkward reading experience for me. As much as I would love to say that Midnight Exposure is the book that bucked the trend, sadly, that would not be true. However, I can state that it was mildly entertaining despite some of the cringe-worthy moments it gave me.
On the plus side, it is a novel about people being stalked and killed by a homicidal Druid in the Maine woods. Maybe I'm morbid, but that's a fun idea for a thriller. Also, the hero and heroine were both relatively likable...at least likable enough I didn't want them to die. And it was a quick, mindless sort of read, which I am often in the mood for these days.
But as to what I didn't like...the simile and metaphor-laden writing and the abundance of cliches. WARNING: mild spoilers to follow. (But I don't give away anything important, like the bad guy's identity. Although if you've read very many suspense novels, you will probably figure that out right away.)
To start with, the heroine, Jayne, is working as a tabloid photographer despite her scruples because she has to pay for her little brother's medical bills. (If I had a dollar for every character in a contemporary romance novel who struggles to pay off a relative's medical bills, I'd have enough money to pay for someone else's medical bills, or at least a doctor visit. It's like the easy shorthand to have a character do something weird or problematic for money and still be portrayed as good and noble.)
And Jayne has such a tragic history--orphaned at twelve, gave up her carefree youth to cook and clean for her brothers, attacked and almost killed by a stalker in college (so she has to drop out). Then it turns out that the hero, Reed, also has a tragic backstory! Honestly, why can't anyone in this type of novel just be normal? Why always so wounded and tragic?
Another cliche--of course, the police are completely incompetent. Prior to Jayne's arrival, two hikers disappeared in the area and then one of them's decapitated body is found. And the police are like, "Well, let's not go crazy folks, we don't know it was murder. This young man could very well have been decapitated by natural causes."
But as I said, despite a lot of silliness, it was an okay story. I doubt I will read more by this author, but I'm not wishing I could invent a time machine just to get back the hours of my life it took to read it.
Read for Unapologetic Romance Readers 2018 challenge: Romantic Suspense category
March 9, 2021
This was my sixth book by Melinda Leigh and so far I have really enjoyed every book of hers that I have read. This book is about 50% thriller and 50% romantic suspense. Romantic suspense is my favorite kind of romance so this was a hit with me. The story is told from multiple POVs including the bad guy's, it's pretty fast paced and I had a hard time stopping reading during the last half. I will definitely read on in this series.
July 9, 2020
Notes:
Well, I figured I'd try again but a good narrator can't save a forgettable tale.
Well, I figured I'd try again but a good narrator can't save a forgettable tale.
May 2, 2023
It was entertaining but too predictable. Also, the insta love not my thing. Thank god they didn’t say the words. The narrator was great a male voices but bad at female ones. Overall an okay read/listen made better that it was free.
September 11, 2012
When Jayne Sullivan headed to a small town in Maine, she was determined to capture images of a reclusive artist. But almost from the very first moments after her arrival, nothing is turning out to be what she expected.
First she is captivated by a mysterious handyman, Reed Kimball, and then she begins to discover various townspeople who seem to vary from unfriendly to strange.
While sorting out the events as they unfold, and before she can catch her breath, she is abducted and held prisoner in a damp basement, with no hope that she'll ever escape. Her captor wears a mask and a cloak, and all she can see is a pair of intense blue eyes.
Fortunately, she is trained in martial arts and is able to break free, using skill and the element of surprise. But her journey toward finding the answers to the strange goings-on in this frightening town are only beginning. And never mind ever finding the artist who is definitely determined to hide.
Who can she trust and what can she know to be true? Suddenly everyone starts to look like the potential abductor and any pair of blue eyes could be those of her captor. Can she even believe in the goodness in Reed, who rescued her on the road after her escape?
All of the characters in "Midnight Exposure" seemed potentially suspect, including law enforcement. Even as I started to figure out who might have targeted Jayne and several others, I was thrown a curve at the end of this exciting page-turner that was a great mix of mystery and romance. As much as I enjoyed this book, I had trouble liking most of the characters. The author's ability to evoke emotions with her characterizations is a plus. The motivations that drove the killer stretched credibility, however, so I'm awarding this one four stars. Recommended for fans of suspense and romance.
First she is captivated by a mysterious handyman, Reed Kimball, and then she begins to discover various townspeople who seem to vary from unfriendly to strange.
While sorting out the events as they unfold, and before she can catch her breath, she is abducted and held prisoner in a damp basement, with no hope that she'll ever escape. Her captor wears a mask and a cloak, and all she can see is a pair of intense blue eyes.
Fortunately, she is trained in martial arts and is able to break free, using skill and the element of surprise. But her journey toward finding the answers to the strange goings-on in this frightening town are only beginning. And never mind ever finding the artist who is definitely determined to hide.
Who can she trust and what can she know to be true? Suddenly everyone starts to look like the potential abductor and any pair of blue eyes could be those of her captor. Can she even believe in the goodness in Reed, who rescued her on the road after her escape?
All of the characters in "Midnight Exposure" seemed potentially suspect, including law enforcement. Even as I started to figure out who might have targeted Jayne and several others, I was thrown a curve at the end of this exciting page-turner that was a great mix of mystery and romance. As much as I enjoyed this book, I had trouble liking most of the characters. The author's ability to evoke emotions with her characterizations is a plus. The motivations that drove the killer stretched credibility, however, so I'm awarding this one four stars. Recommended for fans of suspense and romance.
January 27, 2013
Is this an amazing book? No. But it has it's moments. Like these two sentences for example: "And she couldn't ignore the fact that physical contact with the man made her crave things she'd forgotten about. Hot, sweaty, naked things." Hahahaha. Yes. No doubt about it, this book is pure fluff. You may also enjoy the salacious sex scene that happens about 3/4 of the way through. Hold onto your ponies ladies! It's going to be quite the ride ;)
February 2, 2023
This one was interesting. I felt bad for Jayne, feeling like she had to do something she didn't think was ethical to help her family. I was glad that she decided to not do that. Sadly being in town, she caught the eye of a nut job and Jayne's trip turned bad. About the only good thing was meeting Reed and the connection they had. However Reed kept turning hot and cold, due to his own issues. I knew Jayne's real reason for being in town would come out and Reed would be pissed. Not surprising when that happened. Things really came to a head towards the end, everyone shocked with who the bad guy was and why.
I liked how things ended for Jayne and Reed. They both deserve a new start and it will be even better together.
I liked how things ended for Jayne and Reed. They both deserve a new start and it will be even better together.
September 22, 2017
My Musings
Another exciting read by Ms. Leigh. Her suspenseful scenes are fantastic, her plots are intriguing and nail-biting. The romance in this one was a little thin, mainly because they just didn't know each other long enough to really fall in love, other than that, this was an awesome story. Happy reading!
Another exciting read by Ms. Leigh. Her suspenseful scenes are fantastic, her plots are intriguing and nail-biting. The romance in this one was a little thin, mainly because they just didn't know each other long enough to really fall in love, other than that, this was an awesome story. Happy reading!
February 3, 2024
Ohhhh... not the insta forgiveness... 🤦🏽♀�
The occult theme was creepy. I couldn't really get into the H and h. I just couldn't! It's like the author didn't develop the characters like usually. Did I mention the creepy factor to this book?? 👀
🤷🏽♀� Oh well. Onto the next one.
The occult theme was creepy. I couldn't really get into the H and h. I just couldn't! It's like the author didn't develop the characters like usually. Did I mention the creepy factor to this book?? 👀
🤷🏽♀� Oh well. Onto the next one.
January 13, 2021
I love ML so much and wanted to read some her earlier works. Sadly, this one was dated and...just meh. I do not see myself continuing with the series.
March 27, 2022
Great start of another series by Melinda Leigh! Exciting!
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