The Midnight Sovereign: A Moonstone Bargain

by K.N. Murphy

A legacy to be reclaimed. A debt to be repaid. Watch love blossom.

With the death of her mentor, Elvira inherits the title of Midnight Sovereign. Raised on a magical
island at the center of the five kingdoms, she dreams of restoring her office to its past
importance, when her predecessors used to strike midnight bargains and help the people of the
realm.

Uncovering the lost history of her island requires help, the one thing she’s learned to live
without. That changes when a handsome, mysterious stranger named Corvin shows up on her
doorstep, claiming to owe her a debt he is magically bound to fulfill.

Is he assisting her out of obligation alone, or does he feel the same deep connection blossoming
between them? And what secrets is he keeping from her? Elvira holds the power to reclaim her
legacy—but the steady decline of her office was no accident, and her inauguration is quickly
approaching.

Will she uncover the true significance of her title in time? Or will the Midnight Sovereign fade
into obscurity forever?

Because not everyone wants to see her live to restore her office to its former power…

The Midnight Sovereign is a character-driven fantasy filled with a steamy slow-burn, friends-to-
lovers romance, featuring an exciting cast of magical creatures, ancient powerful artifacts, found
family, and a compelling journey of self-discovery.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Romantasy, Friends To Lovers, Romance, Young Adult

324 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2025

About the author

K.N. MURPHY is a writer of fantasy romance. She holds a doctoral degree in biology. She lives with her favorite person, her husband, and their beloved goldendoodle, a force for pure good in the world. When she’s not spending her free time writing, she can be found rolling some dice, playing board games, or purchasing yet another bookshelf.

Reviews

[edie-may ౨ৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ── 3.75 stars .ᐟ ᢉ𐭩 ˖°.


‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎‎ ‎‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ❛ I’m ready to be made anew. ❜


‎ ‎ ‎ ⌗ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎started: oct 24, 2025 ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎⌝
‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎⌞ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎finished: oct 28, 2025 ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ᯽


‎ ‎ ‎ ⤿ age rating: 13+
‎ ‎ ‎ ⤿ spice level: 1/5
‎ ‎ ‎ ⤿ content warnings:
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ⋆ grief
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ⋆ minor sexual content (no explicit scenes)
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ⋆ violence


‎ ‎ ‎ thank you to NetGalley and the author for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ⤷ The Midnight Sovereign is out now! ᰔ


‎ ‎ ‎ ☾ tl;dr: the vibes of this book were so stunning. the main characters were loveable and fun, but also balanced. it was cheesy, but it made me very happy.


‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ « —⋆—— ꒰ঌ·᯽·໒꒱ ——⋆— »

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎‎‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ moon song - phoebe bridgers
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎03:24 ━━━━━━●─── 04:38
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎‎ ⇆ㅤ ㅤ◁ㅤ ❚❚ ㅤ▷ ㅤㅤ↻

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ « —⋆—— ꒰ঌ·᯽·໒꒱ ——⋆— »


‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ 🌙┆ main tropes:

‎ ‎ ‎ ⤑ animal sidekick
‎ ‎ ‎ ⤑ folklore
‎ ‎ ‎ ⤑ friends to lovers
‎ ‎ ‎ ⤑ slow burn


‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ──〝 and if i could give you the moon, 〞


‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎‎ 🪻┆ review:

‎ ‎ ‎ i am honestly in love with the aesthetic of this book. in my mind, this would make such a pretty movie. might up the rating to a four in the future.

‎ ‎ ‎ the characters in this book were so loveable. our main character, elvira is a lonely sweetheart, and her role as a neutral entity was so well portrayed. i do love a soft fmc, but she still had elements of badassery to balance her out. there were definitely layers to corvin, the love interest, even though he absolutely served himbo on a few occasions.

‎ ‎ ‎ overall, this was very cheesy, but i got a lot of enjoyment out of it. i finished the last page with a huge smile on my face. it actually made me feel warm. total win in my book.


‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ──〝 i would give you the moon. 〞


┆ ⤿ 💎 ⌗ pre-read:
‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ⋆ prediction: 4.00★

‎ ‎ ‎ ⤿ still on my arc grind, but i am cutting this one so close to the deadline… i’m still unfortunately a sucker for a pretty cover, though, and the groupchat loved this one.


જ⁀➴ ₊˚⊹ ☾

[Shannon K G · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great example of slow and steady wins the race. The world and magic slowly unwrap and keep you entranced.

The energy between the characters is spot on. They have chemistry and they build upon their relationship versus insta lust which is like a breath of fresh air.

Thank you to the nerd fam. This was a great read and I look forward to the next book.

[Ifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to The Nerd Fam for an advanced reader copy of this book!

This was super cozy and such a feel good fantasy! After the death of her mentor, Elvira inherits a title she doesn’t know much about but will do anything to restore her office to what it once was. A mysterious stranger who keeps secrets arrives to help her and mentions he owes her a magical debt he must fulfill. Between the two of them, they go on adventures together and she starts to discover more and more about her title. But not everyone wants her to restore her title. As she navigates Corvin, her title, and assassination attempts, this book takes you on a fun, magical journey.

I enjoyed this! I loved the rich world building, the cozy elements of it, and the slow burn romance between Corvin and Elvira. I also loved her animal companion Nix who was quite funny. There was also a good mix of adventure and magical elements that just made this a delight to read.

I look forward to seeing what happens next!

[Jes · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are thrust into this unique magical world with the death of our FMCs mentor. She realized very quickly that she knew little of what would be required of her as the midnight sovereign. She embarks on a quest throughout the lands to figure out how to become the best midnight sovereign she can be.

This is more of a cozy fantasy read and it took me about a full day to get through it!

Nix is by far my favorite, an unapologetically sassy magical creature! I just needed Elvira to ask more questions 🤪

🌙 Friends-to-lovers
🌙 Unique magical system
🌙 Found family
🌙 One bed
🌙 Fae

Thank you to NetGalley and K.N Murphy for letting me read this ARC!

[Veronika Cizkova · Rating 4 out of 5]

A big thanks to the author and netgalley for the copy!

My heart is screaming 5* but for now I'll say 4.5-4.75* and let it sit a bit.

I'm going to start this of by saying, Elvira sometimes severely lacked braincells, especially when she was ignoring Nixs wisdom but oh well I forgive.

I loved this especially the end/last quarter ish. The characters? Perfection. The plot? Very good. The world building? AMAZING. The writing? Pretty good. I noticed a few typos (?) but it was written nicely, I didn't really have any comment on it. Usually I don't like 1st person but it worked. Especially with the whole name thing.

The romance was genuinely to die for (literally) with great pacing and chemistry, for once characters weren't rushing into things that didn't makes sense, sure Corvin kept secrets but it's later revealed like yk he'd literally made a sacred vow on that and since he's part fae.... Anyway, just awesome.

Some plot points were definitely predictable but highly enjoyable nonetheless.

Spoiler timeeee
I may not have cried, but only because we were kinda rushing in the whole part with my girl literally DYING but I was pretty close. Tell me why raven boy bringing her and her cat to his hidden kingdom to look for his cloak to get a feather to use his magic to save her is so fucking romantic? Ironic that I was listening to the song "No Romeo" - Dylan while this guy is a thousand times better than any Romeo.

I have to admit, because of Nix I was initially a bit suspicious of Corvin, but aaaaa the romance in this book? Chefs kiss. I don't like to admit but it was absolutely feet kicking. The lengths these two would go to for each other? Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

I have to say Corvin had that one moment of running into Elvira in the cavern where she was literally shushing him and he proceeds to scream her name and nearly get them all killed but okay. Not his strongest moment.
Did love it though cause then she met the gang and I love them.
Almost love falcon boy even more than raven boy. Look I'm not into men with beards, but this one I'd take for sure hehe (ddw Zorana, I'm not stealing your man). But we do need more of the whole gang including Ferryn I need to know moreeeeee

Also lol the whole like first half I thought of Corvin as Diaval from maleficent just with fluffy hair. What can I say, raven boys are the best.

Also yk at that mansion with the guy whose name I forgot who wanted to sell them to the far and who het Eterna? Yeah so tell me why they just like drink an off tasting drink from a creepy guy who sint drinking it himself? Like, survival instinct who? I forgive them cause they do have a knack for getting out of near death situations but that tension over passing the dove feather was a bit pathetic like NOT THE RIGHT TIME GUYSSS still love em thoo

Also yeah no fucking shit you go to the king of Solaris and he treats you like a princess then no fucking shit he has ulterior motives that prolly aren't great to you, respect though for her claiming her names, loved to see it.

Also wanna see more of Fiere, up against her later adventures, including literally dying, her first trip to Sivell was very tame, but it was still one of my favourite parts because she was stepping out for the first time all on her own. Actually nvm I just remembered Adrasea and the Bunyip came before that but oh well I still liked it.
Bad ass purple lights.

Oh right the one room two beds one bed is broken was great though there whole shifting thingy there was a bit odd to say the least.

Wait a sec I'm just now realising at the Bunyip thing, Corvin couldn't have shifted to grab from his cloak and use a feather to do the shadow cloaking in the spring court, does that mean that's the natural power of ravne feathers? That's cooollll

...

I'll probably add things to this as I remember what I want to say more but for now I think I'll end it here and say, Istg miss Murphy, if this is a standalone, I will be mad. Ain't no way. I need more of these preciousss and I need answers and adventures.

Definitely recommend to fantasy and romantasy lovers who also like travelling and adventurous tropes but also in generalllllll awesome, definitely will read from this author as she publishes.

[ObscureVi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

I have to admit, that I have completely no experience with cozy fantasy (I think it might have been my first ever, but knowing my memory I won't bet on my limbs with that one lol). I'm definitely used to fantasy books, where we get a lot more action and spice (we will come back to that one in a second), but despite that, I found myself pleasantly surprised, finishing the book curled under a blanket with a cup of hot tea.

First of all, returning to the steamy part - the word itself is mentioned in the blurb + combined with the fact that on NetGalley it's under New Adult. I was fully expecting it to be what it was labeled as - something steamy, more on the adult side.

Am I disappointed? A little bit, yes.
Does that change my rating of the book? Not really.

I'm not sure how it will progress in the later books (because I can see that small book one on the cover), but from what I just read? It gave me full-on YA vibes.

What can I say about the book itself?

➵ I really liked our main characters, Elvira & Corvin - their relationship was something I can't wait to read more of, especially the banters which I hope won't suddenly disappear as their relationship progress.
➵ Definitely hoping to see more of Corvin's friends since they're a fun, original and chaotic group and I feel like their adventures will bring us nothing but more of the no one died on our little trips... yet moments.
➵ Finally, last but not least the main star of the book, Nix. That's it. That's the part. I'm a sucker for sarcastic talking cats and this is exactly what I got, so I'm satisfied and hoping to get more of that black demon in book two.

Overall, while it did felt a bit cheesy and I was expecting something slightly different, I still found myself enjoying it.

P.S. Did I mention that I absolutely loved the whole magic ability centered about the moon's power? Don't even let me start with the feathers (if you know you know).

[Sara Beasley · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️


The Midnight Sovereign is a cozy, gentle fantasy that feels like curling up with a warm drink on a rainy night. After the death of her mentor, Elvira suddenly inherits a title she barely understands but she’s determined to restore her office and live up to the legacy left behind. Enter Corvin, a mysterious stranger with secrets of his own and a magical debt he insists on repaying. From there, the story shifts into adventure, quiet magic, and a slow unraveling of what her title truly means.

Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC.

I really enjoyed the worldbuilding, the soft/cozy tone, and the slow-burn connection between Elvira and Corvin. Their relationship stays friendly and supportive for a long time instead of diving into insta-lust, which I actually found refreshing. Elvira herself was easy to root for determined but willing to learn and admit when she’s wrong and her animal companion Nix added a fun touch of personality and humor.

My only struggle is that the pacing is definitely on the slower side and leans heavily into setup. It takes a while for the plot, magic, and relationships to fully settle in, so readers who prefer faster, high-stakes romantasy might find themselves wanting a bit more momentum. This is a a friends to lovers scenario I really enjoyed.

Overall, The Midnight Sovereign is sweet, atmospheric, and magical in a quiet way. If you enjoy lighter fantasy, soft friendships, gentle adventures, and slow-burn romance, this has a lot to love.

[Vetti · Rating 3 out of 5]

*ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op* Thank you for the opportunity!

I'm giving this book 3,5 stars.

I almost DNF it, not because it wasn't good but because I'm so used to reading fast-paced-enemies-to-lovers-spicy romantasy books that I now sadly struggle to read books that actually take their time setting up their plot, characters and lore.

However, it was really refreshing to have main characters develop a healthy friendly relationship, rather than falling victim to the insta-lust trope.

I did not expect to enjoy Elvira's character as much as I did! I feared she would be annoying and b*tchy but she was the complete opposite. I also liked that she *mostly* learned from her mistakes and wasn't too prideful to apologize and admit her errors. Corvin was fine and I loved seeing him in his shifted form. Nix was a cute surprise; he honestly reminded me of both Salem from Sabrina and Spinel Sun from CC Sakura, two of my favorite characters ever. I wish there had been more romance but as stated in the book summary, it is a slow-burn one.

While it's not the kind of story that I go for nowadays, I am glad I gave this book a chance because the Midnight Sovereign did deliver on its promise of a magical journey. This book had all the stuff I like to see in my fantasy TV shows so I think any issues I had with it are my own fault - for always reading the same tropey kind of slop. I'll probably check out the second book, if there is one.

[Mike Lemieux · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very cozy read with great world building and characters!

[Barbara’s bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by BookSirens | 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ | 0.5🌶️ (gentle intimacy, fade-to-black)

“I’d let myself be sequestered on the island for too long, but now I had the opportunity to trade boredom’s for adventure, and I intended to take it, no matter the cost.” Elvira

The Midnight Sovereign by K.N. Murphy is a cosy, character-driven romantasy that reads like a fairytale under moonlight — soft, magical, and full of heart. It’s the first book in the Moonstone Bargain series and also the author’s debut, and what a beautiful beginning it is.

When Elvira inherits the title of Midnight Sovereign, she dreams of restoring her island’s lost legacy. Solitary and determined, she sets out to rekindle her magic and the importance of her role in order to help any people in need of her help (a bargain made at midnight). Her life changes when Corvin — a mysterious raven shifter bound by an ancient debt — arrives at her cottage. Together, they uncover long-buried secrets about their realms and their hearts.

What I loved most is how The Midnight Sovereign stands apart from other romantasy reads. Instead of relying on dark tension or brutal conflict, it offers a gentle balance of wonder, emotional growth, and hope. The pacing is steady, the tone lyrical, and the story beautifully introspective. I adored the parallel arcs: Elvira learning to embrace her role as Sovereign, and Corvin struggling to live up to his duties while protecting those he loves, and the way they keep up their communication (without spoil).

The worldbuilding feels cohesive and vivid: a magical island, an enchanted boat sailing between kingdoms, phoenix flames, fae courts — and yes, a map! Every detail feels lovingly crafted. Add in a talking cat named Nyx, small cozy adventures, and comforting tropes like one bed, fake dating, friends to lovers, magical debt, and found family, and it’s pure comfort for romantasy hearts.

Elvira is a wonderfully balanced heroine — courageous, kind, and quietly powerful without falling into any caricature. Corvin, in turn, isn’t the typical morally grey MMC but a loyal, grounded, emotionally mature man whose mystery comes from his hidden identity rather than moral ambiguity. Their love story unfolds through companionship, trust, and small gestures — sensual yet tender, perfectly in tune with the book’s tone.

The ending offers a satisfying HEA with no cliffhanger (thank you, truly!) — The Midnight Sovereign can be enjoyed as a standalone, though I already can’t wait to return to this world and see how the Moonstone saga and Elvira and Corvin’s story continue to unfold.

Perfect for readers who love:
✨Cozy, lyrical romantasy with light fae elements
✨Friends to lovers, one bed, fake dating, magical debt, found family
✨Talking familiars, enchanted islands, creatures & boats
✨Hopeful, character-driven narratives
✨Gentle intimacy & emotional warmth

My ratings: overall 4.5 ⭐️
💗 Emotion 4.25
🌍 Worldbuilding 4
🕯️ Character Connection 4
📜 Plot 4
✒️ Writing 5
💞 Romance 4.5
🌶️ Spice 0.5

A tender, luminous debut — I closed the book with a smile, feeling both soothed and enchanted. Thank you to BookSirens and the author K.N. Murphy for this e-ARC 💫 as I leave my honest review.

[Belinda Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

From the very first page, The Midnight Sovereign pulled me into its whimsical world — full of magical creatures, hidden legacies, and a heroine learning what it truly means to reclaim her power. 🪄 With the death of her mentor, Elvira inherits the title of Midnight Sovereign — a once-prestigious role on a magical island at the center of five kingdoms. Determined to restore the office’s lost glory and uncover its forgotten history, she finds herself unexpectedly joined by Corvin, a mysterious man magically bound to repay a debt to her. 💫

Their dynamic was refreshingly real. Their connection developed through genuine friendship and mutual respect. 🩵 Elvira was brave, self-aware, and capable of admitting when she was wrong (which I adored). 🌸

And can we talk about Nix?! 🐈‍⬛ This sassy talking cat completely stole the show for me. His snarky charm added such cozy, nostalgic vibes.

Corvin, too, had this quiet strength that balanced Elvira perfectly — especially when he appeared in his shifted form (I was not ready for that level of coolness 😍). I did wish there had been a bit more romance, but the book makes it clear it’s a slow burn, and the tension building between them was deliciously subtle.

The world itself felt so full of life and lore — mysterious bargains, forgotten magic, and ancient artifacts waiting to be rediscovered. ✨ I loved the idea of Elvira’s “midnight bargains” and her drive to restore meaning to her title.

While I personally found the pacing a little slow at times, and a few scenes left me slightly unsure of their purpose, I still appreciated how different this book was from my usual reads. 💭 The writing style was warm and imaginative, and even though it wasn’t exactly my cup of tea, I could easily see it being a five-star read for fans of quirky, creature-filled fantasy worlds.

And that ending? 😭 It left me both satisfied and wishing for more. Whether or not there’s a sequel, it wrapped up beautifully while keeping the door open for future adventures.

💫 Perfect for fans of…
🐈‍⬛ Talking animal companions
🌕 Cozy magical worlds
💞 Slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance
📜 Ancient legacies and hidden histories
🔮 Whimsical fantasy with heart
⚔️ Strong, self-reflective heroines
🏝️ Isolated magical settings

Even though The Midnight Sovereign wasn’t entirely my kind of story, I can’t deny how much heart K.N. Murphy poured into it. 💖 It’s a tale of self-discovery, friendship, and reclaiming one’s legacy — all wrapped up in magic, mystery, and moonlight. 🌙✨

Thank you to the author and The Nerd Fam for this enchanting ARC! 💌

[Maryna Sokolova · Rating 5 out of 5]

6+ out of 5!!
An absolutely ethereal and magical romantasy! Like hands down, this book has one of the best plots I've ever read and has definitely become one of my favorites! So much love for this book, like not even sure where to begin - I devoured it like my life depended on it.

🌙Thank you to NetGalley and K.N. Murphy for giving me the honor to read this ARC!!

🌙Plot/Writing
Although I got captivated to read the book after seeing just how gorgeous the cover is and loving the description, what really got me completely and utterly hooked was how quickly the author guided you into the world of the book. Whatever emotion the main character was experiencing, you felt too - skillful writing that is truly admirable! You can see how much care was put into building and making this world a reality.

🌙Genres
~Romance
~Fantasy
~Adventure
~Fiction

🌙Tropes
~Friends to lovers
~Slow burn
~Fae Courts
~Found family

🌙Notable Character Vibes/Personal Impressions

Elvira: She's fierce but kind-hearted, stands by her words and proves them through action, puts in the work, and overall such an inspiration! I admire her and came to love her more & more as the plot progressed 🫶

Corvin: He’s really kind and gentle, and truly cares about those he lets close to him. I find him to be quite endearing and honestly, if he was real, I would love to be friends with him - he sounds like he would be such a great wingman, like not even kidding.

Nix: *sparkles* so like umm..Nix is wise, has good intuition, is caring and is such a sweetheart! I love him so so much, an absolute cutie pie.

Kygraw: He seems kind, dependable, and educated. I loved this character so much! Definitely want more content with him, but like so far...is this a hear me out?...perhaps yeah...Kygraw is my hear me out from this book! I stand by this cause like who allowed them to be this mysterious (their personality is literally my type)

🌙Songs That It Reminded Me Of
~A World of Your Own by haisonne
~Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon by Yuka Kitamura
~Dynasty by MIIA
~Free by Rumi & Jinu
~Kiss me slow by Vanes
~Tightrope by Michelle Williams
~This is me by Keala Settle

[Emma✨ (underthekindlelight) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down!! What a captivating, and really unique story! I absolutely loved the immense world building, the beautifully described magic, the intense slow burn and the genuine friendship in this book. I know some people find the pace of the story to be slow but I thought it was just right for the impact it needed to have for its conclusion. Absolutely a 5 star read!!

Can we just talk about our main girl for a moment.. Elvira, what a woman! She’s dealt a poor start to life, which picks up after she meets her mentor, only to be left alone again after her passing, but she still doesn’t moan about her situation - she just gets up and gets on with it, delving head first into finding out what ‘The Midnight Sovereign’ is all about. This woman is compassionate, empathetic and so fierce!! Love her character and love her moonlight magic, it’s a phenomenal and unusual depiction of magic that I was really intrigued by.

Corvin, what a man. Absolute babe to our girl Elvira. Also fighting his own struggles with his role in his kingdom. Keeps some secrets but not out of ill intent. This man had me girly giggling and kicking my feet at some of the things he comes out with! 10/10👏

Nix our talking feline friend reminds me so much of Salem from Sabrina The Teenage Witch. Awesome character, so loyal to Elvira!

The conclusion to this book was beautiful and epic! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and absolutely cannot wait for book 2.

Thank you so much to K.N. Murphy and Victory Editing for the pleasure of allowing me to read this ARC. I have read this voluntarily and this is my honest review.

[Kristie Lynne · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fantastic debut novel! Friends to lovers is one of my guilty pleasures, so this was quite a delight to read!

Elvira is set to take over as the Midnight Sovereign after her mentor’s untimely death.We follow Elvira on her journey to discover the importance of her role, and why the Midnight Sovereign title has been lost while she is awaiting her inauguration. After not being given much to work with as for what her job details entail, she begins to learn more about this position on her own with the help of some new and unusual friends. Corvin, a mysterious man (with what is probably the most beautiful, feathered cloak you will ever see), approaches her claiming to owe a debt to the Midnight Sovereign.
Will Elvira make it to the inauguration, or will her title be lost to time forever?


First and foremost, thank you to K.N. Murphy for entrusting me with your ARC!

This was a great debut novel. I really enjoyed getting to not only learn about Elvira, but this world that she is in as well. She is an overall very sweet and likeable main character. And her powers? Absolute goals. I also loved the story building in this one- and there is SO much that I’m sure we haven’t even scratched the surface on yet. Needless to say, I can't wait to learn more about it in future novels!
The main character has clear goals and plans to achieve them, and we see noticeable character growth throughout the story. The storyline itself has nice pacing, makes sense, and is well written. The ML was so cute too! If you like sweet guys as love interests while reading, I cannot recommend this one enough.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌙 “Love will guide you home” 🌙

Elvira is an orphan raised by her mentor on a magical island in the middle of five kingdoms. When her mentor passes away, Elivira inherits the island and the title of Midnight Sovereign, a title that has long lost its power. Elivira vows to uncover the history of the island and restore her office to its former importance. As she begins her quest, she realises that she may not be able to do it alone. That’s when a handsome stranger appears, claiming he owes her a debt that he is magically bound to fulfil. But he’s keeping secrets, and with some in the realm against her, can she really trust him?

The Midnight Sovereign is a cosy fantasy read with slow-burn friends-to-lovers romance, magical side quests and one woman’s journey to self-discovery. The world-building is glorious and detailed; you are instantly transported to a magical realm with whimsical creatures and dangerous beasts. The characters are layered and lovable. Elvira is sweet and kind, whilst still being courageous and adventurous. Corvin is emotionally mature, supportive and quietly strong. The way their relationship evolves, simply fantastic! I especially loved the unique magic system. Plus, there’s a snarky, sassy talking cat who is absolutely wonderful! I loved this book and can’t wait to read what happens next.

If you are looking for a tender, cosy, magical read, The Midnight Sovereign is just what you need!

Thank you, K.N. Murphy, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Following the death of her mentor, Elvira inherits the title of Midnight Sovereign—an ancient, nearly forgotten position once central to the balance of five kingdoms. Alone on a magical island at the heart of these realms, Elvira is determined to restore her office to its former glory (even if she’s not entirely sure what that means).

When a handsome and mysterious man named Corvin arrives at her doorstep, claiming to owe her title a debt, the two begin working together to tend the island and uncover what that debt truly entails. But not everyone welcomes the return of the Midnight Sovereign’s throne. As unknown enemies close in and Elvira’s inauguration draws near, she must decide whether she can harness the power of her predecessors—and whether the bond growing between her and Corvin is born of duty…or something far deeper.

This was a wonderful debut—beautifully written, original, and full of heart. The magic system felt fresh and well-developed, and I absolutely loved the gentle, supportive relationship between Elvira and Corvin. It’s been a while since I’ve read a friends-to-lovers story, and I’d forgotten just how sweet and satisfying that slow build can be.

The ending wrapped things up perfectly: enough closure to feel content, but with a few threads left untied that make me hopeful for more. No dramatic cliffhanger, just the promise of future adventures.

If you enjoy cozy fantasy with a touch of romance, a dash of mystery, and a heroine finding her strength, I’d absolutely recommend this novel.

[Elaine Arentz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A legacy to be reclaimed. A debt to be repaid. And a love that could rewrite destiny itself.

After the death of her mentor, Elvira inherits the title of Midnight Sovereign—a role steeped in ancient power and fading glory. Determined to restore her office’s purpose, she uncovers long-buried secrets of her island and crosses paths with Corvin, a mysterious stranger magically bound to help her. But as danger grows and truths unravel, Elvira must decide if she can trust him… or if her destiny will consume them both.

💭 My Thoughts:
This book gave me major Sailor Moon vibes—fighting evil by moonlight, magical artifacts, and even a feline companion! While it isn’t a retelling, it carries that same sense of heart, wonder, and self-discovery. The tone feels like cozy fantasy meets fae intrigue: there’s political tension, quests, and danger, but nothing overwhelmingly dark. I’d call it “beginner-friendly epic fantasy”—perfect for readers who love adventure, found family, and slow-burn romance without heavy spice.

The world-building is lush and immersive; every scene feels like stepping through a doorway into another realm. The characters are where the story truly shines—complex, flawed, and emotionally real. I especially loved watching Elvira grow from self-doubt to quiet strength, and her dynamic with Corvin had me hooked.

⭐ Rating: 4.5 / 5
🌙 Recommended for: fans of cozy portal fantasy, fae politics, slow-burn romance, and readers 13+ who want something magical yet mature.

[helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you, Netgalley, for this eARC, and to the author and editors for crafting such a glimmering tale!

The Midnight Sovereign is a beautifully built story about a girl called by many names, though she mostly goes by Elvira. Left behind and all alone after her mentor’s passing, she suddenly finds the freedom to leave her home and seek adventure - to finally experience the kind of life she’s only ever read about in books, though without quite knowing what it truly feels like.

Why you might like this book:
1. You crave magic and magical beings
2. You want to read something light(er) yet mesmerizing
3. You love a friends-to-lovers or slow-burn
4. You wish to snuggle up with something cozy yet refreshing
5. You want to join Elvira as she claims her inheritance and power
6. You’re a softie for stories about finding your own community
7. Just love anything related to the moon. Or ravens…

Why it might not be for you:
1. You prefer something fast-paced
2. You’re looking for constant action
3. Are in need of a second book immediately (I so am!)

I recommend The Midnight Sovereign to anyone curious enough to muster up their courage and explore their heart’s wishes and purpose. It’s perfect for those searching for a sense of home, belonging, and magic in their lives.
And especially - to anyone who hasn’t yet dipped their toes into fantasy. This book is the perfect soft launch into the genre, full of wonder and warmth. Or maybe it’s just what you need to wind down - as if you’re recharging under a moonlit sky, wrapped in a blanket with a glowing lantern beside you… and this book in your hands.

P.S. It truly felt like picking up a cold crystal - but oh, how it warmed up to me! This precious gem also gently led me back to reading after a bit of a slump.
I’d love to hold a physical copy of it someday, it would be a magical experience in itself, and I'd get to read it once again.

[Megan Tromposch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A huge thank you to The Nerd Farm for this fantastic ARC. What a strong debut novel from the author.

Following the death of her mentor, Elvira inherits the title of Midnight Sovereign, an antiquated position whose purpose most have forgotten. Living alone on a magical island at the center of five kingdoms, Elvira is determined to restore her office to its proper place and glory (and to figure out what that might be). One night, a handsome and mysterious man shows up at her house, claiming to owe her title a debt. Neither Elvira nor Corvin know how to fulfill this debt, but they set about to tending her island in the hopes of figuring it out. But not everyone is eager to see the throne of the Midnight Sovereign restored. As unknown enemies appear and her inauguration approaches, will Elvira be able to harness the power of her predecessors? And is the connection she feels with Corvin due to his debt, or something more? Only time will tell...

This was a wonderful novel and very strong for a debut! The magic was wonderful and original, and Corvin and Elvira were so sweet. It's been a while since I read a friends-to-lovers novel, and I forgot how sweet they can be. The ending was lovely-some untied strings and lots to still accomplish, but no giant cliffhanger. I'd absolutely recommend this novel to you!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️

[Brittany Biggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Love will guide you home”

Thank you Nerd Fam and K.N. Murphy for providing an eARC!

This is a really cozy, enchanting, “feel good” story!
There’s a golden retriever MMC who’s also has a mildly suggestive (not quite dirty) mind and a talking cat/ familiar with a little sass.

Nyx (the talking cat/familiar) kind of reminded me of Salem from Sabrina the Teenage Witch, which I would consider to be a good thing! He was a very memorable side character.

There’s several mystical beings and types of magic that are introduced. The FMC, Elvira, is Fae and has moon magic.
The moon magic really resonated with me personally because I love the moon and moonstones and already find them both magical. Reading a story that gives them actually interesting magical properties was really intriguing!
The flow of this book was kind of in 2 unofficial parts.
Part 1: Quests to unlock some mystery surrounding the intended role of the Midnight Sovereign
Part 2: A journey of self discovery for the MCs to accept the responsibility and feel worthy of their duties.
All the while, there is a tender love story brewing.

I like that the book has a satisfying conclusion. I believe this will be a series and I am interested to see more of Elvira and Corvin’s story but the end of this book wraps up this chapter of their journey nicely.

[Brittni Shafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gave off major Sailor Moon vibes. From fighting evil by moonlight, searching for magical artifacts and knowledge, to the cat companion, I was sat the entire time. This wasnt a complete retelling of it though, it had its very own originality. Its Fae based and not and urban fantasy but a portal fantasy. You have the fae courts and political intrigue, secrets and betrayal, and so much more. It starts off dark and sad however, I woulf consider this a cozy fantasy book. The angst and suspense are there but they are low and solved fast with mostly low conflict (IN MY OPINION). However, I am very used to reading extremely dark and graphic and high angst content so you may find this book to be a good amount of stress haha. I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure and quests that went in here. It was like beginners epic fantasy and would highly recommend this to someone who enjoys low spice but a plot driven story. I'd also recommend this for the 13+ age group BUT as an adult woman, didn't find this to be YA at all. It is an adult FMC so its not the trials and tribulations of a teenager but of a young woman discovering her life's purpose. It does have some heavy content and a little bit of violence but nothing to clutch pearls over.

Thank you the nerdfam for the arc

[Elledabookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Slow burn? Check. Plot twists? Check. Characters I’m obsessed with? Double check. This debut novel is perfection.

TROPES YOU’LL LOVE:
🔥 Secret identity
😤 Grumpy but protective side characters
💥 Slow-burn perfection
🌙 Magical worlds with hidden lore
👀 Found family dynamics
⚡ Plot twists that keep you flipping pages

At first I thought we were getting a whiny main character living her best magical island life, but wow was I wrong. Elvira grows. She’s witty, real, and hilarious. Then there’s Corvin, mysterious, kind, and hiding so much. Secret identity and magic feathers? I was hooked.

And don’t even get me started on Nix. Grumpy but protective? Say less. Every time he showed up to drop more lore I was like YES SIR SPILL THAT TEA ☕

The chemistry was built, not rushed. A true slow burn that had me kicking my feet and holding my breath. The world-building was gorgeous, the pacing was chef’s kiss, and the emotional tension was everything I wanted.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars — An incredible debut, perfectly written, action-packed, and overflowing with tension. A must-read for anyone who loves fantasy and slow-burn romance.

[Michaela Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enchanting! 4.25 stars! That’s how I describe this book. Our FMC Elvira who has Fae blood in her ancestry but became an orphan, has to learn who she is and her purpose in her new role as the midnight sovereign, while navigating grief and loneliness. Her mentor adopted her at age 10 and is taken from her before her training is complete so she’s left to put the pieces together by herself. She grows more sure of herself and confident in who she and what she wants to do about her new role as we follow her on a few adventures exploring the realm. She has beautiful magic she derives from moonstones and the moon. Our MMC Corvin who has a few secrets of his own, is sweet and supportive and has interesting and unique bird magic! Together they explore the realm of Olayra, which by the way, has all different kinds of magical creatures that were described so vividly I had a wonderful time picturing them in my head. I couldn’t wait to pick up this book each time. It was written so beautifully and vividly and so much thought went into laying out this beautiful story, I cannot wait to go on another adventure with Elvira and Corvin! I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

[Krista Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the tragic death of her mentor, the FMC is trapped on her island alone with the burden of becoming the new Midnight sovereign without truly knowing what it means. She must work together with an unexpected stranger and her new cat friend who talks to discover the truth about this role she must step into and discover the powers she has because of it.

This book was full of lots of exciting adventures and quests to help her discover more about this power and role and to help those who need it in the kingdoms. I really enjoyed the discovery of the world and her powers through her POV and her learning about them herself. I also adore an animal side kick so Nix is my favorite character, especially with the amount of sass a talking cat can give. I also really enjoyed the bond and trust she forms with Corvin and while he is clearly hiding things from her, she clearly wants more from him than just a partner. Overall this quick, fast paced read was enjoyable and I would love to follow more of this story. My rating 4.4/5!

Thanks to the author and the Nerdfam for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!

[Nico bookreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Netgalley and editors for this book.
What a book! The book covers the hero journey from the step up of the protagonist at the death of her mentor, to her final adventures, as she tries to own and shine in her designated position as the Midnight sovereign, which she must reclaim at a designated time of the year.
To start my opinion, I would say I started the book with a very little hope, thinking I would find something that I had already read a thousand times in other books, imagine my surprise when the book keeps advancing, the story keeps developing and the characters grow to me so much that I read this in two days, I would like to say it's been years since I got so trapped in a book.
I saw: found family, death and grieving, romance, magic, animal mistreat (named), cat companion.
If you are still insecure about it, let me tell you two things: the Main Male character has wings, and there also a speaking cat, very opinionated.
Gods I love Nyx so much.
Thanks Author, it was an amazing journey.

[Ann Adolphson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Midnight Sovereign , I was able to get an ARC thanks to book sirens and by the author K.N. Murphy.
The Midnight Sovereign by K.N. Murphy is an impressive debut that immediately draws you into a richly imagined world. If you loved A Court of Thorns and Roses, you’ll find familiar elements like fae courts, but this story expands beyond that with dragons, magical deals, and a captivating mystery surrounding the Midnight Maiden.

The pacing is excellent—this book is a true page-turner that keeps you hooked until the very end. I also have to mention the cover, which is absolutely gorgeous and perfectly sets the tone for the story inside.

The romance is slow burn and satisfying, the found family dynamics are heartwarming, and the friends-to-lovers element adds an extra layer of depth. Overall, it’s a strong start to a series I’m excited to continue.

If you’re looking for a fantasy romance full of adventure, intrigue, and magic, this is a must-read.

[Justina Bascombe · Rating 4 out of 5]

good start to a new series

Huge thank you to The Nerd Fam and author K. N. Murphy for a gifted copy of this ebook.

This was a fun story to read. It wasn’t exactly what I expected when it was described as an epic fantasy romance. But it was still a fun story. We have an FMC, Elvira, who is dealing with loss and grief while trying to figure out her place as the next Midnight Sovereign. Along with that she has to deal with attempts on her life to prevent her from taking her place and reviving the role of the Midnight Sovereign. Along the way she meets Corvin, the mysterious MMC and her animal companion Nix.

She had nothing but doubt for herself and everyone around her having been alone most of her life and even when she wasn’t alone, she wasn’t the main person of interest for the one taking care of her. I hated how much she doubted herself but when she never had reassurance in her worth… who can blame her. I look forward to seeing where this story goes.

[Whitney Hall · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Nerdfam and K.N. Murphy for the opportunity to read and review this eARC.

Although this book has very cozy magical vibes, I found it hard to stay interested. The author did a great job with their storytelling and character building, but this did not seem like it was the book for me. It was very different from other fantasy books that I read, that I feel this was more out of my comfort zone, making it hard to fully enjoy. That's a me problem though, and nothing negative against the author or the writing.

One thing I do feel like the author accomplished is giving the readers an ending that leaves you wanting more but also feeling very satisfied if there isn't a second book.

Although it wasn't for me, I know that this book has its audience and I look forward to seeing what others have to say!

[Willow Yakush · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was one of my favorite reads of October. It was cozy and left me wanting more. I enjoyed how the world unfurled, especially with how the book was paced. It was nice to be able to have the world unfurl through the characters eyes. I enjoyed meeting the creatures and characters and the learning about each of them and how they provided purpose to the world. It was magical and poetic. Watching Elvira open up from being lonely, hurt, and unsure to adventurous, empathic, and strong was one of my favorite parts of this story. The world building was tied into how Elvira got to experience things that she had only read about, which drew me in even more. It was a fun read, especially with a sarcastic talking cat being by her side through most of the story. Each of the characters were such a lovely, fun addition to the story. I especially enjoyed seeing the way Corvin cares for Elvira, steadfastly, it did friends to lovers in the best way. I already cannot wait for the next book.

Thank you so much Nerd Fam for the opportunity to read the eARC of this book.

[Ashley Shivlar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted eARC. #themidnightsovereign #thenerdfam

"The Midnight Sovereign" by K.N. Murphy is a heartwarming debut romantasy, the first in the Moonstone Bargain series, that unfolds like a gentle fairytale. Elvira, inheriting the title of Midnight Sovereign, and Corvin, a raven shifter, embark on a journey of self-discovery and romance, uncovering secrets about their realms.

What sets this book apart is its gentle approach, focusing on emotional growth, and hope, rather than dark tension. The world-building is vivid, with magical elements and comforting tropes woven throughout.

Elvira and Corvin are well-developed characters, and their love story blossoms through companionship and trust. The book concludes with a satisfying HEA, but readers will still be eager for more in the Moonstone saga.