1:23 AM

The 2 AM, Book 2

By: DH Renfroe

Narrated by: Lawrence Baldwin, Zakiya

After six months apart, Zaria Jameson swears she's finally over Lennox Mercer, the man who shattered her heart.

Then, at 1:23 a.m., his name lights up her phone. One reckless message blurs every boundary she built.

When Lennox returns to Lockmoor Cove, both their past and their passion collide, forcing Zaria to choose between closure and surrender. Over one electric week leading to Valentine's Day, desire, grief, and unfinished love push them to the edge.

When the clock strikes 1:23 a.m. again… will they begin again, or end it for good?

Narrated in duet style.

©2026 DH Renfroe (P)2026 Podium Audio

Great Story

I enjoyed the story, it was told at a good pace and with good character development. No major drama but plenty of spice. The male narrator was wonderful, that man can talk me to sleep any day of the week. I didn't care for the female narrator, I found both her accent and cadence annoying. She would read sentences like: "I saaaw Jooohnny. He had oooon. Blue pants. A white shirt. aaand brooown loooafers. When weee. were at theee storrre."

A 1:23 a.m. text brings an ex back home

Duet Narration by Zakiya and Lawrence Baldwin

Tropes:
Second-Chance Romance
Exes to Lovers
Secret Messages
High Heat

Zaria spent six months trying to heal after Lennox abruptly left for L.A. to run his own division, breaking her heart after three years together without giving her a say. When his name pops up on her phone at 1:23 a.m., he’s back in Lockmoor Cove looking for another shot. The story unfolds over a week run-up to Valentine’s Day as they navigate past grief, intense spice, and a genuine second-chance effort that proves spinning around the block works when done right.

Zakiya gives a standout vocal performance for Zaria, capturing every nuance of her heartache, strength, and gradual surrender. Lawrence Baldwin brings Lennox to life with a rich, smooth delivery that mirrors his intense determination and remorse in equal measure. Their dynamic interaction makes every dialogue exchange feel electric.

DH Renfroe crafted how to execute a satisfying exes-to-lovers story.