Robin’s Rave Reviews 2026

Book Summary

I recently dove into a wonderful YA romantasy, STOLEN MIDNIGHTS by Katherine Quinn. Delacorte Press published it in February 2026.

Three Fates rule over Andalay, a land with haves and have-nots. The Fates give magical gifts (only to the elite) on their 18th birthdays, further separating the classes.

Wren, a nobleman’s daughter, has lived a life of ease and has been sheltered from the conditions of the poor. When Wren doesn’t get a gift on her birthday, she believes a mistake has been made and can’t let the thought go.

Damien, orphaned as an infant, does whatever it takes to survive in the poorest part of Andalay. He’s surprised when he receives a magical gift on his birthday, but he finds it a helpful tool for his thievery. Damien takes a job to steal a birthday gift from the Fates in mid-delivery. It’s intended owner was the daughter of a noble. When he looks inside the locket he’s stolen, he’s confused. It holds a picture of him.

When the thief strikes again at a ball, Wren chases after him. Their relationship starts in conflict, but it gradually turns them into a team. Damien opens Wren’s eyes to the economic and social disparity in their land. Together they uncover seedy activities going on in the government. This patriarchal society is about to be turned on its head.

My Thoughts

YA romantasy is not my usual go-to genre, but I wanted to switch it up. I ‘m glad I did because this one was a good read.

Damien is a morally gray character, a thief but with a good heart. Wren starts off as naive, but she becomes a strong, inquisitive character who wants to make things right. I enjoyed the good girl/bad boy trope with fun banter between the two. She’s all sunshine. He’s all grump. They’re an unlikely pair in a forbidden love. 

STOLEN MIDNIGHTS has complicated family dynamics, secrets, a regency vibe, magical gifts, and plenty of action that kept my interest. The story reveals the problems of when the wealthy and privileged turn a blind eye to the needs of others and even exploit the vulnerable as a way to maintain what they have.  Readers get to know the two main characters, seeing behind the walls they put up, through this dual POV.

Warnings: It’s a slow burn romance that leads to a consensual sex scene. Expect to also see some foul language.

This is the first part of a duology, so expect a cliff hanger at the end. I didn’t realize that when I picked it up. Even though I hate waiting for a sequel, I want more! I want more of the push and pull of Damien and Wren’s relationship, more about the background of the Fates, and more about the gifts they’ve been given and how it will come into play as they pry the lid off a jar of angry bees running the country.

About the Author

Katherine Quinn, a fantasy romance author and poet, lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband and three children. Ever since she read her first fantasy series, Katherine wanted to be a dagger-wielding heroine. Instead, she became a writer of adventures with strong heroines.

Katherine has a psychology degree from the University of Central Florida. She believes anything can be fixed with Starbucks and dark humor.

If You Like…

 Considering buying it?  Try Bookshop.org. I’m not an affiliate of Bookshop.org. I simply want to support their mission of supporting small, independent bookstores across the country. Here’s the Bookshop.org link.

If STOLEN MIDNIGHTS by Katherine Quinn sounds interesting, also check out my past reviews on these recommendations:  The Book Witch by Meg Shaffer, The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young, and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros.

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