Midnight Mist

by Michele Mills

Three things I know about the planet

1. It’s home to the most famous miners in the four sectors.

2. My best friend is married to one of them.

3. If you take off your gloves and touch an unmated male, you could trigger a mating bond.



So when I attend the Dark Moon Costume Ball, I keep those gloves ON.

I also keep my distance from the brooding male in black who’s been staring at me all night like I’m his next meal. Sure, he’s devastatingly handsome and my body lights up like a supernova every time he’s near. But I’ve watched him make females cry with his harsh words, and I’m done with pretty men who treat people like garbage.

Then midnight strikes. Strange mist floods the cavern. The Xylan crumple around me.

And when I wake up, my glove is gone and my bare hand is clasped in his.

Oh no.

“You’re mine,” he growls.



Author’s The Midnight Mist novella was originally released within a charity anthology. This rerelease is expanded, and includes an all-new epilogue!



Get caught up with the whole Fever Brothers

Daxon’s Hostage (prequel) – Daxon & Darcy

Mean Right Hook (novella) – Hook & Leah

Big Bad Claws – Claws & Lila

One Big Bite – Cannibal & Roxy

Hot and Heavy – Heavy & Jana

Midnight Mist (novella) – Chief & Naomi

Thick as Thieves – Trunk & Ines

Genres: Romance, Science Fiction, Aliens, M F Romance

104 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2026

About the author

Michele Mills lives in California and leads a life of quiet, G rated desperation with her husband and two sons. In an attempt at a fulfilling, R rated inner life that does not include Disney movies and Nickelodeon; Michele reads and writes filthy romance and, well...filthy romance. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.

**Sign up for Michele Mills's newsletter and instantly receive Kroga's Bride for FREE: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/re2d9uo4vg

Reviews

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Naomi knows the rules on Timbur: never remove your gloves around an unmated male, or you risk triggering a mating bond. So at the Dark Moon Costume Ball, she keeps her gloves firmly on and avoids Chief — the brooding, devastatingly handsome Xylan miner who’s been watching her all night and has a reputation for harsh words. But when midnight strikes and a strange mist fills the cavern, Naomi collapses with the others. She wakes to find her glove missing and her bare hand clasped in Chief’s. The bond has snapped into place, and his growled “You’re mine” makes it clear her life has just changed forever.

A fast, dramatic read with all the intrigue you’d want from a masked ball — the mystery, the anonymity, and the electric tension of Naomi and Chief watching each other from across the room long before either of them speaks. That mutual awareness gives the whole story a delicious slow-burn edge, even as the plot leans into instalove territory. Naomi is wonderfully strong and feisty, refusing to be intimidated even when everything spirals out of her control, and Chief is exactly the kind of determined, unshakeable presence who matches her perfectly. The claiming ceremony adds a burst of high‑stakes drama that fits the world and their dynamic so well. Short, punchy, and novella‑like, this story delivers quick chemistry, bold emotion, and a satisfying hit of destiny‑driven romance. This was an MF story with mature content.

*** Note this was originally released within a charity anthology. This rerelease is expanded, and includes an all-new epilogue!

[Trish · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story!

I loved reading this story of Naomi and Chief. Her coming to visit her best friend Leah, goes from a nice escape from her family's betrayal, to the possibility of a great job, and housing, to finding a great big male. Not only does she discover that after initially a bad impression, he is kind, thoughtful, and loving to his family. Despite his growly demeanor, she feels deeply drawn to him! Something that she's never felt before. He really doesn't want to be at this celebration. He knows that the single females will annoy him by asking him to test for mating possibilities, but he knows immediately if there is a chance. The same way all the males of his line can. Simply by scent. He is compelled to get closer to the unknown human female, but so many things, and pesky females get in his way. He is finally able to talk to her, and really see if there is a chance. The ending is of course wonderful! They get a happy result, but circumstances around the mystery mist/ gas that knocks out every other being there, except the Fever brothers, and their mate still at the event. This brings up questions about the death of their parents, and the setting up of their family member to be banished. I am really looking forward to the next brother's story, and finding out who is really behind all the bad things that happened to their family line. I totally recommend that series, and any book by Michelle Mills. Trish. A.

[Lyndsay L · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked from the first page turn on this book, and now I want to read all of the other brother's books. This was sooo good from the moment that Naomi stepped into the room that had been set up for this big party for all these people that celebrated the special time of year. Naomi had escaped her situation to see her old roommate who was also her best friend. There is nothing more exciting than going to masked ball. Bayzon cannot keep his eyes off this new human that has entered the ballroom there is something about her that captures his attention. He can't help but be drawn to her. This book is sooo well-written and you have to finish it. I could not put this book down the chemistry is off the charts and such a joy to read. I cannot wait to see what happens with the remaining brothers and how this mystery that has been put throughout the books is solved. This is a must read!!!!!

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really fun read and I loved the idea of the masked party and having to guess who everyone was, with a prize for the last masked being standing. So fun! Naomi is there visiting her friend and looking for a fresh start. Little did she know that she had captivated Bayzon's attention completely. Of course, there's some drama and it causes some problems, especially her and Bayzon's gloves being off and having their skin touch. Yikes! Thankfully, they were both hot for each other and had time to connect before that drama to start learning each other. I love how willing she was to satisfy his culture's mating demands and that she truly gave it her all ;P These two had hot chemistry and I was thrilled they got their HEA, with family and friends to support them. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book to see if we find out more about who's causing all the dangerous mischief. Good fun!

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Midnight Mist is the fifth book in the Fever Brothers series and I was so happy to be back on Timbur with the crew.
This novella follows Naomi who is visiting her best friend Leah on Timbur as well as joining the miners in celebrating their Dark Moon holiday.
Even though she is wearing gloves indicating the unmated, Naomi has no intention of removing them to trigger a mating bond with anyone, though the handsome masked Xylan stranger she keeps noticing in the crowd at the costume ball might change her mind.
The story was fun and nicely written with family dynamics, spice, mystery, and bonding as the stranger turns out to be Bayzon one of the brothers and some of Naomi’s observations about him turn out to be sooo wrong, and then pheromones take over!
Loved the characters, that tunnel mate hunt…yummy, and the wonderful HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short but addictive so hang on you won’t put it down until the last page has been turned. Naomi is visiting her best friend Leah in Timbur plus joining the miners in celebrating their celebrating the Dark Moon holiday, wearing gloves indicating her unmated status with no intention of removing to trigger a matting bond with anyone, although, the stranger in the crowd at the costume ball has her really thinking about it. Bayzon sexy as all get intimidating in the best way but the moment, he meets the human, turning everything on its head twisting his mind consuming him. The magnetic pull is there from the start each tried to ignored but the harder they tried the stronger it grew nearly impossible but her observations ended up being wrong delaying what could be but what happens when they actually get past the miscommunications, the obstacles, where are they headed when the gloves are removed, is the bond everything they expected, and can they happiness somewhere along the way?

[lf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moonberry Mash under the Dark Moon

Midnight Mist is the fifth book in The Fever Brothers series and the first book I have read from the series. The story is about Naomi and Bayzon, aka Chief. She has travelled to the planet Timbur to visit her best friend Leah. While she is there the miners have their annual Dark Moon ball celebrations. She has been warned that if she removes her gloves and touches an unmated miner she could end up with a mating bond, one she does not want. Bayzon has arrived late to the ball but when he spots the tiny human in the crowd he is mesmerized by her. But he is gruff and sharp in his dismissals of hopeful Xylan woman throughout the night, which turns Naomi off at what she sees as cruel behaviour. It seems he is going to have to do more than just hold her hand to get the feisty human female to be his mate.

[Gsmitty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Mist is the fifth book in the Fever Brothers series by Michele Mills and I ADORED being back in this world and with these characters! The chemistry and connection always gets me caught in the FEELS!

Naomi is feisty and caring and has a strong moral compass. She wants to be accepted and loved for who she is, and has so much love to give to her partner.

Bayzon is fierce and growly and intimidating and completely mesmerized by the intriguing new person that's shown up. He's just trying to do the best by his family and his crew and she upends everything in the best possible way!

Some minor drama and inconveniences weave together a journey for our characters to navigate, but the trip is so very enjoyable for the reader! Hope you enjoy the chase as much as I did!

[Holly Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Midnight Mist by Michelle Mills is the fifth installment of the Fever Brothers series. Naomi is visiting best pal Leah after being disinherited by her family. She attends the yearly masquerade ball hoping to win the week long cruise for being the last person masked. Then she sees a stunning male over and over again, finally meeting him toward the cent of the evening. He turns out to be the head of the Fever Brothers crew. They wind up resonating with one another when their gloves are removed, causing the bond to form. A midnight chase through the mine tunnels and a broken arm later, the two are mated. Now to find out who has been wreaking havoc on the family!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shana W · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven't read the previous books in this series, which was not problematic in the least, but I plan to do so now. The story was very entertaining and the world building was detailed. I found the characters - both main and side - were strong, assertive and very likable. I enjoyed the heat and the banter between Bayzon and Naomi, as well as the humour in general. Their honest communication was refreshing, in addition to the fact that they didn't play games. I'm looking forward to reading Trunk's story next, to spend more time with all of the characters and to learn more about who may be targeting the family.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the Fever Brothers series, Noami having been tossed out by her family, comes to Timbur to visit her bestie who is married to Hook. She accompanies them to the Dark Moon Ball, she is not in costume, having not had enough time but she is masked. She notices the one man across the room, who like her is only in formal wear. Both have an immediate attraction but it takes a good portion of the night before the cross paths. Bayzon knows by her scent she is his mate, but he plans on giving her time. Fate has other plans, when a mist puts a lot of the attendees to sleep, they touch hands. She has to make a decision quickly if she wants to be his.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Athena Diven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bayzon had almost given up looking for his mate until he went to the Dark Moon Costume Ball. Naomi felt him watching her across the room, but saw him brooding and mean to other females and after what her ex had put her through, was so done with arrogant males . But when the clock struck midnight and we were all struck unconscious, we wake up hand clasped. Uh oh. He says "Mine". What happened? What have we done? Naomi hopes that she can give Bayzon a second chance and they need to find out what struck them down. It's short and sweet and I love the fever brothers. The mystery that plagues their family and puts them in danger is intriguing. What a great Sunday read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stacey Gomez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great Job Mrs. Mills! Ah, we’ve stepped back from the fever brothers story line and Ah I am so glad Bayzon aka Chief finds his happily ever after. Working in the mines with his brothers. One just recently married or fining his mate. The mines has their Christmas party and Naomi Sato visiting her best friend is attending. Agh this was to short but so needed to get me through my reading slump. This was an instant touch love story, and how tradgey almost lost the brothers. They were able to stray close and find their own and build from there. Loved reading this and I hope you too.happy reading!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Avis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this novella. We are back with the fever brothers. This time Bayzon ( Chief )gets his chance for a mate.
The event takes place at the annual costume ball.
Sweet and charming with just the right amount of humor.
The writing style is a little different from what I normally read. Yet it was perfect for this story. POV of both Naomi and Bayzon. Steam to the eventual chase and mating. And of course the perfect HEA for them. I also liked that Naomi is friends with Leah. She has her problems but also realizes she can do something about it and does.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Zelda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the Fever Brothers series. Naomi needs a fresh start, and visiting her friend Leah might lead to a whole new life. Bayzon has never shown an interest in anyone until the costume ball. The longing looks between him & Leah, plus the teasing by his brothers, made the steamy & cute all at once. There is still the suspense thread running through the story, which adds some depth to this quick read. It’s becoming clear that there are no coincidences. I like that the story has elements of funny banter, a bit of heat, and a touch of danger. It’s always a bonus to catch up with couples previously featured in their own books.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 5 of The Fever Brothers series. Can be read as a standalone.

'....If you take off your gloves and touch an unmated male, you could trigger a mating bond.
So when I attend the Dark Moon Costume Ball, I keep those gloves ON.'

The characters were so very appealing and likeable and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. Another great addition to the series. 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.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Night to Remember

Naomi is on Timbur to visit her best friend and escape her problems. Her first night there is the Dark Moon costume ball where is she is transfixed by the only other being in dress clothes and mask instead of a costume. Chief finds himself fascinated by the unknown human female until.he finally approaches and scents her knowing she is his Bride. Unfortunately there will be no courtship when a strange mist drapes the party and Naomi and Chief clasp bare hands on accident and end up completing their mating in this fun read.

[Lynn61 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fever brother bites the dust!! Naomi is visiting her friend on Timbur and is spirited off to a fun filled Xylan masked ball. She is instinctively attracted to Bayzon, the chief of the fever brother mining crew and at midnight, a mineral mist changes everything. Another chase, another claiming, and another Xylan who always puts his woman first. A wonderful, steamy read with fun characters and no angst getting in the way of fated mates. But could danger be lurking? What a great series 🥰.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cristy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say that I thought that I had read every book that Michele had written, obviously I was wrong.

This is the first book I have read in this series and all I can say is that I want more.
🔥
Bayzon and Naomi just blew my mind, This was an incredible read from start to finish. The immediate connection is mind blowing. I love a story that has an amazing HEA 💜🔥

Now I just need to read the previous books in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good action packed and spicy romance featuring Bayzon and human, Naomi.I will confess that I felt a bit lost at times since I have not read previous books in this series but I still enjoyed the story. Loved how strong and feisty Naomi was but also her fairness to give Bayzon a chance after hearing rumors. The slowburn to mating ritual was perfection. Hints at past tribulations and possible enemies set up the next story. Enough of a good read that I will go back to read the previous books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally another Fever Brothers book! I've really missed these guys so I am so happy to read this book to catch up with the whole crew.

Naomi is visiting her friend, Leah, on Timbur. While there, she finds herself drawn to a mysterious, yet handsome Xylan. However his behavior towards the female Xylans, triggers red flags for her.

Bayzon, aka Chief, doesn't realize his blunt behavior towards the pesky female Xylans is not leaving a good impression of him towards the human female whom he believes is his bride. He's going to have to work hard to change her mind and prove he's worthy of her.

They both gotta prove to each other that they are meant to be together. But the mystery surrounding the brothers is still unresolved. I cannot wait to see how the author plans to resolve it.

[Cynkris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love the Fever Brothers. Chief and Naomi are a perfect example why. How sweet would life be if we could "scent" our mate? I loved this novella so much I can't help wishing it were longer..but that is a mark of a good book, never wanting it to end. The Fever Brothers are some of my favorite aliens. So gruff and growly. Always an HEA that has to be worked for..a bit. I completely recommend Midnight Mist and all of the Fever Brothers books. Enjoy!

[Janet Smith McHardy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Naomi is visiting her friend on Timbur. Where she attends a fancy dress ball. She is in for the night of her life and a life changing one at that. It's great to catch up with the Fever brothers again. This is a quick read with fun characters and a steamy plot. I look fort=ward to the next book in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debdutch · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Midnight Mist” by Michele Mills

-Returning to the Fever Brothers world was a delight, with Bayzon finally finding his mate. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.

Naomi is strong, warm-hearted, and easy to root for, while Bayzon is growly, devoted, and irresistible. Sweet, steamy, and fun, this novella delivers fated mates, a masked ball, and a satisfying happy ending.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

touched by accident

The blurb is misleading. Thought there was some matchmaking for cause of the mist.
Instead book was about series of chances. From human friend mated to one of the brothers, timing of visit so she could go to party, and her being attuned to with stone.
There were some parts I would have edited or changed. But I am not the author. Wished they spent less time at party and that she had met him prior to party.

[Michele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Fever Brothers. This time Chief aka Bayzon finds his bride. This quick read basically takes place at a costume ball - instant attraction, a brooding male lead and a hesitant female lead fill the pages, which ends with an ongoing mystery.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the fever brothers!

Naomi comes to visit her friend Leah, one of the fever brothers brides. At a large masked costume party she sees Chief across the room, they both feel a pull to each other. Every time they get close someone stops them to talk.
Read this to find out what happens, great book! Can’t wait for scar and trunks stories.

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

this intriguing story had me connecting with Bayzon and Naomi. They connect at a party and the chemistry between them is intense and when a mist is released, she wakes up with her hand in Bayzon setting off the mating. It is a well written story that had me connecting with the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author taken us to another time and place to pull us into the lives of Naomi and Bayzon. The heartwarming story keeps us turning the pages with an unexpected connection, alien traditions and love. The story leaves us with a mini cliffhanger that leads into the next book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Happens In The Dark…

Naomi is on Timbur, visiting a friend but also looking for a new start. Bayzon isn’t looking for a Bride - when he finds her, he’ll know. While first impressions were a bit rocky, the attraction between these two glows bright like Illibrium… I truly enjoyed this quick read - it’s quick pace kept me engaged and the characters were a hoot. A fun read.