An Accidental Faerie Tale

Trium Perfectum #0.5

by Kara M. Zone

An Accidental Faerie Tale is a new adult dark fantasy that follows Max Gilbert and Aiden Avery on their journey to connecting their trium perfectum, battling an unfriendly foe, and finding that faerie tales can accidentally happen if your mom hires an unethical fae to keep you away from true love.

When the trium perfectum calls, surrender to its magic—or risk being destroyed.

Genres: Fantasy

101 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 15, 2025

About the author

Kara M. Zone crafts tales of magic, mayhem, and mischief.

She is the author of the forthcoming new adult dark fantasy:

Book .05: An Accidental Faerie Tale
Book One: Cinders Burn at Midnight
Book 1.5: Even After...
Book Two: Ashes Fall at Dawn

The Trium Perfectum universe includes 12 full-length novels in the Soverign City series; three novellas (to date); and a standalone Romance Series in Shadows Ridge (date TBD)

Stick around! You're in for a wild ride!

When she is not writing her own books, Kara works as indie publishing and writing consultant.​ Contact her at contact@karamzone.com

Reviews

[Kristen's Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

eeekkk...if the novella was this good I can't wait to read book 1!
Finding your fated mate enhances your magic? Your fated mate is your best friends twin brother!? Poison puts you in a magical coma trapped in your childhood memories?
I loved this story! To my understanding it's side characters getting their own story and if side characters have this much going on then I can't wait to get to the main characters!
Luckily I don't have to wait, I was lucky enough to snag an ARC of book 1, Cinders Burn at Midnight...which I'm diving into right now!

[Bianca Jaimes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a surprising, delightful read! I fell in love with Max literally in the first chapter. Max is a sweet, caring person at his core, but his past traumas make him an insecure, cold, and indifferent person when it comes to showing emotion and diving head first into anything resembling an interest in a relationship. But when he feels the trium perfectum with a stranger of all people, he questions just how he's supposed to make it work. After a surprising turn of events and with the help of Aiden (his stranger, not stranger), he realizes that maybe falling in love and letting someone in won't hurt as bad as he thinks. Honestly, props to kara to start a series with a novella. im the type of person that a novella sometimes just isn't enough, but this had enough romantic angst, mystery, and action. And to me, the characters were fully fleshed out for a novella but maybe it's also the promise of knowing that book one in this series is coming soon and I for one am excited to read The Cinders Burn at Midnight.

[Elizabeth Kinlaw · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I read this Novella before the debut novel in the series Cinders Burn at Midnight*

Zone’s writing style makes it easy to fall into this story. This was my first experience with these characters and I found them to be so likable, relatable, and realistic despite the
Fantasy aspects of the plot.

The Trium Perfectum Series is an urban fantasy, which I admit - is not always my favorite of settings, but in this case the modern college setting aided to the ease of this read. The first half read like a queer college romance magical undertones. However we quickly find that the trium perfectum - a magical connections that binds two souls together- is much more complex than our MMCs are prepared for. That coupled with a dark family history, sabotage, and a dangerous fae realm make this novella so entertaining.

This book was a great introduction to this world and left just enough intrigue to leave readers wanting more. I will definitely be picking up Cinders Burn at Midnight!

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I inhale.
He exhales.”

The lyrical, whimsical feel of this author’s writing pulled me in from the first few lines. As the story progresses, the voice grows darker but still poetic. The characters are humorous and real. Max, Aiden, and Finn’s powerful emotions and visceral reactions pull me into their intriguing world. When Nicolas is brought into the tale, it takes on an intensity that ignites the imagination.
Multiple first person POVs don’t always work, but in this case, they flow from one chapter to the next with ease. This novella is just a taste, but I’ll be reading more of Kara M. Zone’s work.

[Book Witchling · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this after Cinders Burn at Midnight and absolutely LOVED IT. I am happy I read it second because there are moments in CBAT that wouldn't have been as impactful.

But I NEEDED to know Aiden and Max's story. I love them and their journey. I actually cried reading this book. Aiden and Max are now one of my favorite book couples

[GheridenTheBookBard · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars
🌶️ 2 out of 5

An Accidental Faerie Tale: Expanded Edition is such a fun, quick intro to the Trium Perfectum world. It blends dark fantasy, shifters, fae chaos, and an MM romance. The connection between Max and Aiden isn’t instant. One of them is hesitant and carrying a lot, which made their eventual bond feel earned instead of rushed.

There’s also C-PTSD rep woven into the story, and it felt handled with care without overwhelming everything else. Add in a mother hiring a fae to control and manipulate her son, and you’ve got drama from the start.

It’s short, emotional, a little spicy, and left me genuinely excited to the next book in the series.

[Anne Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I genuinely only have good things to say about this novella. The characters—chef’s kiss! The plot—immaculate! The atmosphere—completely immersive!

This story has everything I love:
✔️Enemies to Lovers
✔️Best Friend’s Sibling to Lovers
✔️Family Intrigue
✔️Sibling Rivalry
✔️Found Family
✔️Dark Academia
✔️Secret Magical Society

Seriously, what more could you want?! And there are some scenes that just tickle right on the edge of spice, so if you want that drama and angst—it’s there. I just wish there was MORE!!! Ugh!! Really hoping this author releases a sequel or something soon!!





TLDR: It’s basically “Ninth House,” if it were written by VC Andrews and WHAT ARE YOU EVEN WAITING FOR??



***I was given an ARC of this novella for review, but the opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***

[Deandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such and easy five stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

⚡️I probably enjoyed this novella a little too much (no such thing😂) i love Max and Aiden soooo much! They had me melting by the end of the novella!🫠 i will say i usually fall harder for the side characters in most books i read and this time was no different, I love when an author gives the side characters a book/novella of their own!

This novella definitely gives more insight into the relationships and circumstances in Cinders Burn At Midnight, not just about Max And Aiden, but also a look in to Max's past and family issues

The emotions in this novella are so Raw and you can feel the passion in these characters! I can't wait to see more of the Characters and chemistry they bring to the pages!⚡️

[Kelsey Fletcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just absolutely DEVOURED this. I finished my ARC of Cinders Burn At Midnight a couple hours ago and I got the file for this in one of the ARC team emails. I was absolutely delighted to get to learn about Max and Aiden’s story after reading about them in the other book. The tension in this is top notch and learning more about the Trium Perfectum and 👀 other things 👀 was so great. Now I can’t wait even MORE for the second book of this part of the series to come out.

[Bookish._.Banter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brief intro to the characters. Really escalated quickly without a ton of world building or deep character development. I look forward to the full story as it was very engaging nonetheless. Max is troubled. Aiden is gorgeous and charming. And there’s (literal) magic between them!
LGBTQ (MMC)
Quick read.

[Laura Pu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kara has a writing style that places you right on the page with her characters, feeling what they feel and believing what they believe. Her magic system is unique with its own twists. This little novella had so many cute, blushing, and heart-pounding what’s-going-to-happen-next moments. Really enjoyed Max & Aiden’s journey! I can’t wait for her debut Cinders Burn at Midnight!

[Nancy Pollock · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

I read this short Novella after reading Cinders Burn at Midnight, in which Max and Aiden are "side" characters but also integral to the main characters storyline.

Max and Aidens story is just as special as they are, together and separately! I only wish this wasn't so short.

I'm buckled in for the ride that Kara Zone is taking us on with all these magical characters!

[daysha · Rating 3 out of 5]

My attention was held, and I couldn't put the book down.
With that being said, the ending felt rushed. Especially for how anticipation was built.

Enemies to Lovers
Best friend's brother
Dark Fantasy
Magic
Family Drama
LGBTQ positive (main character)

I need more! I need to know more!!

[SensBaby21 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute and quick prequel in the Trium Perfectum series about Max and Aiden. Both Max and Aiden can be stubborn but together, along with Aiden's twin, Finn, they will figure out the Trium Perfectum together.
I really liked these 2 characters and am excited to see how their story continues in Book 1.

[Momma T's Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

When the blurb pulls you in. "When the trium perfectum calls, surrender to its magic - or risk being destroyed." Max and Aiden's story about mates and how you shouldn't ignore it for too long.

[Janie Parham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved getting a deep dive into Max and Aidens story. I love Max. Something about his demeanor stands out to me. I'm excited to read the next book and see where his story goes.

[Jourdan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect novella to one of the best couples!!!

You definitely need to read this after Cinders Burn at Midnight. There were points that had a higher impact than if I read this first!

[Twinkle.butt.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Accidental Faerie Tale: Expanded Edition by Kara M. Zone said, “What if we unpack emotional damage AND add magic?” And honestly? I’m here for it.

Max and Aiden are not your typical sparkly, insta-love fantasy couple. These two are carrying enough emotional baggage to qualify for excess airline fees. But instead of brushing it aside for swoony moments, the story actually leans into it. Their trauma especially the C-PTSD and intimacy struggles is handled with care and nuance. It’s messy. It’s vulnerable. It feels real. And that makes their slow-burn connection hit so much harder.

Now let’s talk world-building. The fae elements are woven in without turning the book into a fantasy info-dump. We get magic, we get intrigue, we get that subtle “something is not quite normal here” vibe without needing a glossary the size of a brick. It enhances the story instead of hijacking it.

And the humor? Sneaky. Just when things get emotionally heavy, the banter slides in like, “Hey bestie, breathe.” The balance between heartfelt and light-hearted is chef’s kiss. You’ll laugh. You’ll pause. You might even stare at the wall for a second contemplating your own emotional growth.

Now, let’s be real for a second. The pacing at the beginning? A little wobbly. It bounces between backstory and present-day events like it had too much caffeine. You have to settle into it. But once it finds its rhythm, it flows beautifully. Also, the layering of magical and emotional elements can get intricate this isn’t a skim-and-scroll kind of read. Pay attention. The payoff is worth it.

Overall, this book is for readers who like their fantasy with feelings. If you want glitter and zero emotional depth, this ain’t it. If you want healing, complicated love, trauma handled respectfully, and a little magical chaos sprinkled on top? Welcome home.

[Sarah Metcalf · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short read that introduced characters from the Trium Perfectum series. Max Gilbert (Kaitlyn's brother) and Aidan Avery (Finn's brother) are 2 halves of the Trium Perfectum, only Max wants nothing to do with some magical bond he knows almost nothing about. Despite trying his best to avoid Aidan, Max finally realizes that he is Finn's twin brother and avoidance won't work. And Max's mother Lillith is trying to run his life without his knowledge and putting him in the cross hairs of a dangerous fae.
We met bot Max and Aidan in the Trium Perfectum series and this is peek into how they met. There is avoidance and turmoil and it’s far from the perfect beginning. Ther is also a dash of danger as they realize that Nicholas is not who he seems. This is a quick easy read and a great introduction to some of the side characters from this series. I enjoyed the writing style and am a fan of this series. There is some spice in this story so if that’s not your thing, you can skip chapters as I did.

[Georgia · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶🌶🌶🌶

🖤Romantasy
📖144 page Novella
🍆MM spicy romance
🪄Complex Magic

What a great novella and introduction into these characters and the series. We get a lot of the backstory and foreshadowing of what's to come and I can't wait to read the rest of the series.

Max and Aiden's magic connects them on almost a cellular level enhancing their relationship and their abilities. We learn about magically induced comas that trap us in a land of memories and we learn of a common enemy. The connections and the spice is off the charts hot.

Thank you to author @karamzone_writes and @iris.influencer.society for having me as part of the ARC team for this series.

#AnAccidentalFaerieTale #fantasy #romantasy #lgbtq+ #novella

[Amanda✨️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Accidental Faerie Tale is a quick, moody, and magical read that blends dark fantasy with just enough romance and wit to keep things fun, even when the stakes get high. Max and Aiden are a compelling duo, and their journey into fae politics, emotional connections, and literal magical chaos makes for a unique twist on the "modern faerie tale" genre.

The worldbuilding is intriguing and the chemistry between the characters carries the story through.

Perfect for readers who enjoy messy magic, fated connections, and morally questionable fae.

Definitely curious to see more of this world!

[Angel Tartaglia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn’t put it down

Novella had a lot of plot but mostly character development and depth that I enjoy very much in any novel. It was an easy 4 🌟 read for me. It does explain some lore about magic, which I took notes for the future reads of the series.

Max has a rough past and is unsure of what to do for relationships, believing avoiding it is best.

^He reminds me of a spicy kitten when first meeting Aiden.

☺️ Wha I’m a sucker for the interactions between Aiden and Max. I’m so happy they are together!!!

True loves kiss, am I right? 😚

[Diamanti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is #0.5 of the Trium Perfectum series.
This is a novel that will move everyone. Every word is placed with care and diligence. The characters are well-written and the plot, although fast-paced, is emotional.
Finally, the author's writing is warm, captivating and enjoyable.

Thank you very much to the author and Iris PR for the eARC!

This is my honest review!

[Raechel · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short and spicy MM romance that tugs at the heartstrings. Yes, the sex is hot, but moreover you learn of Max's childhood with an (emotionally) abusive mother who wants to keep her gay son in the closet.

There's a touch of fantasy elements like magic, a fated mate bond, fae, and fire nymphs. There's also a nod to future political intrigue surrounding Max's dad who is gone but maybe not gone. 

A great novella prequel to the Trium Perfectum series. Thanks so much to IRIS Influencer Society and the author for an advanced copy. 

[Brenda | BookaholicHaBits · Rating 3 out of 5]

La historia es una interesante y la autora detalla bien los puntos y detalles que desea transmitir al lector. Me gusto el concepto de los “mates” y el Trium perfectum. Por lo que me imagino que es una buena antesala para entender las dinámicas del World building del libro por venir. Si encontre el principal muy lento y cuando ya estaba acostumbrándome a la historia ya se había acabado. Por solo que sentí que el final fue apresurado Pero si es un libro que recomendaría ya que tiene puntos importantes necesarios para los próximos libros.

***Me ofrecí como voluntaria para leer este ARC de la novela corta y dar mi opinión honesta a cambio.

Translated to English: The story is very interesting, and the author does a good job detailing the points and nuances she wants to convey to the reader. I liked the concept of “mates” and the Trium Perfectum, which I imagine serves as a good introduction to understand the dynamics of the world-building for the upcoming book. However, I found the beginning quite slow, and just as I was getting used to the story, it was already over. I felt the ending was a little rushed. Still, it’s a book I would recommend because it includes important elements necessary for the next books.

***I volunteered to read this ARC of this novella for review, in exchange to provide my honest opinion

[Angiewagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am obsessed with this dedication
** For everyone who's touched darkness
Magic, for all intents and purposes, smells.
The scent burns itself into a child even before their magic strikes alive.
Each strain of magical essence has a different aroma.
Fire shooters smell like cinnamon.
Skinwalkers smell like chocolate, wind turners smell like vanilla, and those who bend lightning...
While no one knows, we can assume it's smelly. **
Max & Aiden are like oil and water until they touch and then -- trium perfectum.
And they are learning all of this together. Finn & Aiden's parents will help them.
Kaitlin, Max's sister, is also a key to the puzzle. Now she is about to start college with them.
Where did their dad go, and what is their mom up to?
Then we have a selkie and a fire sprite added to the mix, and mayhem.
"True love conquers all." I LOVE this series and can't get enough of it.
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[ThatBook Girl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella pulled me right in from the start!

I love Finn's playfulness in contrast to Max's grumpy character. The world building and character development that Kara manages to get in a novella is fantastic. I really feel the struggles for Max and Aiden trying to navigate the trium perfectum bond, and how distrustful Max is.

I want to know more about Max, his childhood and relationship with his sister Kaitlin and what happened that drove them apart. Nicolas was an intriguing character, I felt some red flags from the start but I didn't quite see this twist coming!

If An Accidental Faerie Tale gives you a taste of what is coming with the novel Cinders Burn at Midnight, I think I will be completely satisfied! The characters are great, the story is fun and exciting and the writing is wonderful.

[Brittney Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

An accidental faerie tale is book .5 in the trium perfectum series. While the main series follows Finn and Kaitlyn, this novella follows Aiden and Max (siblings of the first two and a couple we meet in the first book). This novella catalogs how they meet and how they go from enemies to lovers. Max has just gotten to college and escaped the control of his mother. He certainly does not want to be tied down to someone even if fate has given him a match. Torn between fate and freedom, Max has to navigate his own path. Reluctantly Max agrees to meet his best friends twin brother which happens to be the exact person he doesn’t want to be involved in. Although I read this after the first book I still loved seeing Max and Aiden’s perspectives. Our gay MCs who just might get a faerie tale ending!

[SamTheDesiBookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a prequel Novella for the Main book Cinders Burn at Midnight.

An Accidental Faerie Tale introduces us to the family, explains where it all started and where things went off.

It also gives us insight as to how Max and Aiden come together as a couple. Fated mates thru trium perfectum (a special magic that connects 3 magical powers together and makes their magical powers stronger).

I like how well and smooth the novella is written. It was quite enjoyable with the right amount of moments and events in this book. But it wouldn't be a bad choice to read after the main book too. It fills in quite well from Max's perspective.

[DarkDigital Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I need more of these characters!!!! Too damn good and I am so happy I got to read this little prequel novella. You will love this boys love story between two growing men!

Max- shunned for who he loves and living with manipulative family is not for the faint of heart. He must guard himself and never have a relationship with anyone because it will only hurt - again.

Aiden- loving family and finally finds his trium perfectum- who wants nothing to do with him and is a complete grumpy bear!

Finn- Aiden’s twin brother and wolf shifter, completely annoying and interfering with EVERYTHING.

Alongside a few other characters who may be unsavoury this tale is too good to miss out on!