Book Review: Stolen Midnights by Katherine Quinn
Release Date: February 3, 2026
Genre: Historical Romantasy / YA (but feels more New Adult)
Rating: 4 / 5
Spice Level: 2/5 (open-door, but mild)
Publisher: Delacorte Press
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I received an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
First Impressions
Before we even talk story—can we just admire this stunning hardcover edition? The first printing of Stolen Midnights features a limited edition version with gorgeous sprayed edges and floral detailing. It’s total shelf candy—the kind of book that makes you pause just to admire it on your nightstand.
Plot & Characters
Stolen Midnights is told in dual POV between Wren and Damien. Wren comes from a life of privilege and expectations, while Damien is an orphaned thief from the poor side of town—so, yes, we’re already getting those forbidden attraction and class divide vibes.
While the book is technically classified as YA (14+), it definitely reads older. The tone, relationships, and especially the romance feel more New Adult than traditional YA.
This story sits at the intersection of historical romance and romantasy. It has that lush, old-world feel of a historical romance—grand estates, social expectations, and a heroine trying to find her place—but it’s threaded with subtle magical elements tied to fate and gifts.
The magic isn’t heavily featured; it’s more of a guiding force behind the story rather than a world-building focus. If you loved The Shadows Between Us or A Curse So Dark and Lonely, you’ll probably enjoy this blend.
What I Loved
The dual POV adds depth, especially seeing both sides of the class tension.
Wren and Damien’s chemistry—the push and pull between duty, danger, and desire—is well done.
The historical setting with a touch of fate-driven magic makes for a captivating backdrop.
What Didn’t Work for Me
The story dragged a bit in the middle, with pacing that slowed between major plot points. I found myself skimming at times, but the ending hooked me right back in. And speaking of endings—prepare yourself for a cliffhanger. This is clearly just the beginning of a larger story.
Let’s Talk Spice
Here’s where things get interesting. While this is labeled as YA, the romantic scenes are open-door—which is rare for the category. They’re tasteful and relatively tame (more inferred than explicit), but still more detailed than most YA romances, where the fade-to-black is the norm.
So if you’re a romance reader who likes some spice but not full-on explicit, this will be right up your alley. I’d give it a 2/5 spice rating for heat level—enough to make it swoony, not scandalous.
Final Thoughts
Stolen Midnights is a beautifully written, atmospheric romantasy with compelling characters, emotional tension, and a dash of fate. It’s not heavy on magic, but it leans into romance and class politics in a way that feels fresh and addictive.
If you’re looking for your next YA-meets-New-Adult historical fantasy romance, mark your calendar for February 3, 2026. I’ll definitely be grabbing the next book the moment it’s announced.
