February 2, 2026
✨ January Wrap-Up Newsletter ✨

Is it just me, or did January sneak right past us? Either way, I’m glad you’re here with me as we close it out. This month was full of excitement, growth, and a few wow, this is really happening moments. Thank you for riding with me, cheering for me, and showing up the way you always do. I can’t wait to share what’s next.

| 1:09 AM
For the past three weeks, 1:09 AM has been holding strong in the top 10 in multiple categories, and even hit #1 in the Urban Erotica New Releases. My heart is so full. Thank you for showing this story the kind of love I could only dream about.If you haven’t read it, it is available on Kindle unlimited.If you’d like something extra special for your shelf, the paperback is officially live on my website ready to ship, and the hardcover is available for preorder as well. Every direct order comes with a personalized copy and some exclusive goodies from me to you.
1:09 AM- Kindle Unlimited
1:09 AM- Website


It is the first of a three-book connected series, followed by 1:23 AM by D.H. Renfroe (out now) and 2:06 AM by C.M. Barnes (coming next Friday). Make sure you preorder!
Audiobook Spotlight

Let’s talk about Beneath the Harvest Moon. This audiobook is special to me, and a huge part of that is Harper Wilde. Her voice is warm, expressive, and filled with heart .She brings the story alive in a way that reminds me of the dynamic duo between S.A. Cosby and Adam Lazarre-White.If you have not listened, treat yourself this week and give it a listen. I can’t wait to hear what you think.
Beneath the Harvest Moon Audiobook
Looking Back

This month marked a milestone for me: my first-ever author event, Love in the Carolinas, curated by the brilliant Author Juri Hines. And listen, I left that event so affirmed.I met incredible readers, built connections with authors I admire, and soaked up every moment. I even sold out of copies faster than I expected!For the full recap, I’ve shared a detailed reflection on Substack. And if we took a photo together, feel free to send it, I want to highlight as many of y’all as I can.
Substack Post
What I’ve Been Reading
January was full of straight bangers. I stayed fed all month. I read:Crash by C. Monet1:23 AM by D.H. Renfroe2:06 AM by C.M. BarnesAnonymous Acts by Christina C. JonesHostile Takeover by Christina C. JonesMaybe Next Time by Christina C. JonesMaybe This Time by Christina C. JonesEnigma by C.M. BarnesMaybe One More Time by Christina C. JonesDeuce by Kimberly Brown
Looking Ahead

February is shaping up to be a beautiful month, and I’m so excited to share what’s next in the pipeline. Bulletproof Love is coming. It’s the first book in the Crestwood Chronicles and it releases on February 13th, just in time for all of the Valentine’s Day feels. My mentor, Elle Kayson, called this book “amazing, sweet with an edge, poignant but hopeful,” and hearing that from her still means the world. This story is special, y’all. Xavier, my MMC, is truly my lover boy. He’s tender but gritty, soft but steady, the kind of man who loves with his whole chest. I cannot wait for you to fall for him the way I did.If you want early sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes notes, make sure you’re following me on Substack.
Follow on Substack
And if you’re part of my paid Substack, you already know we’re six chapters deep into our exclusive story, Becoming Sefi. There’s so much more to come, and I can’t wait to continue building this world with you.

Becoming Sefi- Substack
Events / Where to Find Me



Closing Message
As always, thank you for being here with me. Thank you for reading, supporting, sharing, and celebrating each new milestone. Your love has carried me through this month in ways I’ll never forget. I can’t wait to bring you even more stories, more characters to fall for, and more moments to hold close. Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other. I’ll see you in February. 🤎Follow me on all of my socials
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook Reader Group
Tik Tok
Substack

With Love,

L.B. Gaines