Gemma Spencer lives in a cruel twist of fate: she has access to everyone's memories but her own. With no recollection of her past, Gemma survives as a con artist on a small island where magic hums beneath the surface of daily life.
When a tourist arrives with a newspaper article about a missing girl who looks eerily similar to Gemma, she realizes the truth about her identity lies in the glittering city of Linness—where the mystical is outlawed and gangsters rule the streets. But magic can still be found...if you know where to look.
While there, Gemma meets Hendrik, an investigator, who offers Gemma a dangerous bargain: impersonate the missing girl and go undercover inside the infamous Copperleaf Club. It's the big break Hendrick needs to solve his father's murder. For Gemma, it might be the only way to find answers about her past.
The deeper Gemma and Hendrik get inside the world of illegal magic and rival magicians, the more their fragile alliance—and growing feelings—begin to unravel. And as Gemma gets closer to the truth, she suspects her own memory was taken from her for a reason.
And remembering could be deadly.
For readers of Six of Crows and Stalking Jack the Ripper— this gaslamp romantic fantasy is perfect for fans of forbidden magic, reluctant allies with hidden motives, and a high-stakes deception where love may be the biggest gamble of all. This book includes a no-spice romance, but the gritty world and darker themes make it suitable for older YA audiences and above.
Courtney Millecam is a Young Adult Fantasy author who grew up being surrounded by books, siblings, and friends (real and imaginary). She traded the city life for a small town near the Rocky Mountains and loves exploring the outdoors. When Courtney isn't writing, you can find her: escaping into a good book, baking, drinking too much Dr Pepper, and spending time with her family.
.my thoughts. omg this book felt like a disney movie epilogue in the end haha!!
During the starting of this book I was immensely hooked. The vibes, the characters themselves? They all had something to give that I was enjoying a lot!
Genuinely speaking, I liked this book and it's atmosphere a lot! The writing style is quite easy to understand and imagine the situation!
Gemma has the magic to go through everyone's memories, she has a track of it, but not hers. Confused and Determined, she's willing to do anything to cross through every barrier of her mind and escape Mrs. Bristol, the cunning and cruel woman. And find the truth about the missing girl in the newspaper who looks much like her.
Initially I was worried that this book would end so soon since I was really enjoying and having a great time, and I am glad that it maintained throughout!
Gemma was a really strong character, I really liked her and I wasn't really annoyed by her. Though when her thoughts went to 'conquering the city' and then when I looked at her personality it was like a 360° turn since she was just so sweet and kind and I was loving this girl. She was fierce and smart.
Hendrik, okay he had me giggling and smiling at the start, because his description is so nice and well written and I just couldn't help and be fond of him.
Sadler, the character that I loved was his more than Hendrik😝😭. He was just so SWEET and the way he helped Gemma made my heart swell💗. Even though he was a side character foremost I still loved him a lot like I wanted more of him.
Beatrice, she's such a diva and I liked her hehe. Even Zu was like us readers who knew what was going on hah.
Fot the plot twists. I had two theories for two different things, but for the main part, I actually guessed it correctly! I was so happy that I was right and I thought I should have picked science as a career stream since I was so smart. [I didn't because I know I am an idiot]
Also I am kinda happy now since I know why this book is named Magic At Midnight and I can actually imagine the whole scenario perfectly as to why it was named like that.
I would definitely recommend this book since I had a GREAT time and I liked the plot and the way it ended. It's a standalone as well so the author wrapped it up nicely and it was a fun read throughout.
☆ Thank you Netgalley and Laurel Ink Press for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
.preread.
For readers of Six of Crows and Stalking Jack the Ripper—
Magic at Midnight by Courtney Millecam is an engaging and thoughtfully written fantasy that blends mystery, magic, and character growth into a story that’s easy to get lost in.
The novel follows Gemma, a protagonist with no memory of her past but a rare ability to experience others’ memories through touch. It’s such an intriguing premise, and it’s handled in a way that keeps the mystery steadily unfolding while adding emotional depth to her journey. I found myself drawn into her story from the start, wanting to piece together the truth alongside her.
The world-building is one of the book’s strongest elements. Both the island and the city feel vivid and atmospheric, with just enough detail to bring them to life without slowing the pacing. The magic system, in particular, feels fresh and well-integrated, adding a unique layer to the story.
The characters are equally compelling. Gemma and Hendrik have a dynamic that develops naturally over time, shaped by mistrust, shared goals, and growing understanding. Their interactions add both tension and warmth, making their journey together especially enjoyable to follow.
And while I won’t go into details, the story includes a major twist that caught me off guard in the best way. It’s the kind of moment that makes you want to go back and rethink everything you’ve read.
Overall, this is a well-balanced and immersive fantasy with strong atmosphere, an inventive magical concept, and characters that are easy to root for. I’d definitely recommend it to readers who enjoy a touch of mystery woven into their fantasy reads.
Thank you to Courtney Millecam for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“She’d been led to believe that strength meant power over others. It was with others that she became strong.”
This gas lamp fantasy gives the reader all the fun of a private detective story complete with prohibition-style raids, night club glamour, and ruthless club owners reminiscent of late 1920’s mob stories wrapped in a magical bow.
Fans of film noir murder mysteries will come for the plot. Fantasy lovers will stay for the setting. YA romance fans will get hooked on the swoon.
Hendrick’s character arc was satisfying to see played out. Enjoyed seeing Mrs Bristol get her just desserts.
I secretly hope the author continues with new stories expanding on some of these characters. I’d love a prequel with Frau Wentzler or a continuation with either Judith or Jack as an MC.
Courtney Millecam’s Magic at Midnight was such a fun read! The story began a little slowly as I got familiar with the new world and characters, but it picked up quickly and kept me engaged.
I especially loved the German references and how unique the magic system felt compared to other books I’ve read recently. It added a fresh layer to the story that made the world feel rich and interesting.
I truly felt like I was on an adventure alongside the characters as they worked to solve the central conflict. The writing flowed smoothly, making this an easy and enjoyable book to read.
I loved this one! Loved the mystery and the magic system. The TWIST! I did not see it coming. Loved the characters. I felt like I was transported to another world the whole time and I loved it. So so good.
Content: murder, mild violence Romance: kisses only
Magic at Midnight by Courtney Millecam is the perfect blend of murder mystery, sweet romance, intrigue and self discovery, but with such an original plot you will devour it. All the book girlies love a good villain gets the girl, but what happens when the girl might be the villain-- but she doesn't know it?
Gemma has a unique magical ability that when she touches someone she relives their deepest most emotional memory. It is transferred to her without them ever realizing. But for Gemma the most frustrating part is she can't access her own memories. Her memory only starts 9 months ago when she washed up on a small tourist island known for entertainment and illicit magical activities. On the island in a precarious position Gemma unwilling acts as a con artist to survive. Everything changes when a dangerous man from the capital city mistakes Gemma for a missing girl that looks almost identical to her. Forced to flee the island Gemma makes a dangerous gamble to take on the identity of the missing girl.
It's a fun and fast pace whirl of intrigue as Gemma meets Hendrik, a PI looking for his own answers to who killed his father. Together they navigate the underbelly of the city's illicit magical nightclubs and rival gangs who sell illegal potions. If either want to find answers they have to learn to trust the other through a plethora of lies and deception. Along the way they pick up friends in the seediest of places as Gemma navigates her own past. The more she remembers the more she realizes Hendrik and perhaps all she holds dear is going to slip away....if she doesn't die first.
Things I loved: -Great banter -Rival gangs -Gaslamp romantasy -Bridgerton vibes -Unique magic system - Found family....sort of - Amnesia - Twists and turns - Deception - Fake dating - Reluctant allies - Standalone in a connected duology
5 Stars 0 Spice- This is a YA novel and there is only kissing
The world building was excellent and I loved the descriptions of the Island, Capital, night clubs and clothes. It reminded me of Coney Island and NYC at the turn of the century but of course this is a slightly more steampunk/ Gaslamp version. The world was so unique and just drew me in.
Magic at Midnight is an original magical story set in the atmospheric city of Linness.
Gemma has no recollection of her past, just a few months from the moment she washed up on shore. Since then, she's been living as a con artist, using her magic ability to access people's memories. Her living circumstances resemble those of Cinderella; being used for chores while gaining scraps to make a living. However, when a 'tourist' arrives with a newspaper article about a missing girl who looks identical to Gemma, things are set into motion. In a rush of events, Gemma packs up her things and flees to Linness, leaving her only two friends behind. On the ship, she meets Hendrik, who turns out to be a private investigator. After some playful chatter, they strike a bargain: impersonate the missing girl and go undercover inside the infamous Copperleaf Club in exchange for helping Hendrik's father's murder case.
Gemma and Hendrik had amazing chemistry! The mistrust and deeper history connect them on a whole other level than in most books, adding the memory loss of Gemma. Despite them being 'business partners', they can't help but feel a growing emotional attachment. They open worlds for each other, and their intellects balance perfectly. They certainly have depth and lots of uncovered history that comes up in pieces throughout the book. The side characters were interesting enough, but a bit flat. Though some side characters were more complex than others.
The world-building was a total vibe. It was giving Six of Crows x speakeasy x jazz vibes x Victorian era vibes. A mix you don't see often with such an appealing plot. The pacing was just adequate enough to keep you hooked, especially regarding the amnesia. Only the ending felt a bit rushed in contrast to the pacing of the rest of the book. Some parts were a bit too elaborate for my liking, but it didn't bother me too much. Gemma and Hendrik get to explore Linness, taking the reader with them, so it becomes this whole immersive adventure. The revelation was a total banger and very exciting to read through, definitely one of its strongest points, on which I would recommend this book!
Thank you, Courtney Millecam, for trusting me with an e-copy in exchange for an honest review!
Plot Gemma Spencer, a con artist with the ability to access others’ memories but not her own, discovers she may be a missing girl from a magic-banned city. Teaming up with an investigator named Hendrik, she goes undercover in a dangerous world of illegal magic to uncover the truth about her past, only to realize that regaining her memories could put her life at risk.
Thoughts
This book delivers a compelling blend of mystery, magic, and slow-burn tension, anchored by the strong chemistry between Gemma and Hendrik. Their relationship stands out thanks to its layers of mistrust, emotional complexity, and shared history that unfolds gradually throughout the story. Gemma’s memory loss adds another emotional depth, making their connection feel even more fragile and intense as they shift from reluctant partners to something much more meaningful. Their dynamic works especially well because they challenge and balance each other intellectually while slowly opening up emotionally.
The world-building is a major highlight, offering a rich and atmospheric setting that feels like a mix of Six of Crows energy, speakeasy culture, jazz-age vibes, and a Victorian-inspired backdrop. Linness feels immersive and alive as Gemma and Hendrik explore its dangerous underworld, pulling the reader deeper into its secrets alongside them. The concept of illegal magic and rival factions adds intrigue and keeps the stakes high.
The pacing is generally engaging, especially with the ongoing mystery surrounding Gemma’s identity, though the ending feels a bit rushed compared to the steady build-up of the rest of the novel. Some sections also lean slightly too detailed, but not enough to disrupt the reading experience. Side characters are somewhat uneven, some feel underdeveloped, while others show more complexity and potential.
Overall, the story shines most in its immersive setting, emotional tension, and an exciting, well-executed revelation that makes the journey worthwhile and memorable.
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for sending me an arc!
Gemma has no memories before arriving at Edelweiss Island. After washing up on shore, she was taken in by Mrs. Bristol, who made her sign an illegal contract requiring her to read stranger's memories. When Gemma sees a woman who looks just like her missing from Linness, she knows that the key to her past must be in that city. After a major mishap, she heads over by boat to Linness. On the boat, she meets Hendrik, a young man searching for clues about his family. Together they decide to figure out who the missing woman is and what she has to do with Gemma. But Gemma and Hendrik get more than they bargained for in their search through the gritty, magical underworld. Gemma is a unique character. She has only 9 months' worth of memories and personality. On the island, she is bound to help Mrs. Bristol by using her mind magic to read people and con them. She hates doing it but has no choice. She is lonely but shies away from getting close to anyone. Hendrik is still dealing with the loss of his father and his need to solve the case. He is almost single-minded in that aspect and is willing to do whatever it takes to find the truth. They are both wary of trusting others, but somewhere along the way they both learn to trust each other. I love the world this author has created. Magic is both celebrated and shunned depending on where you are. There is the care-free island and the mainland which has its strict rules. I love the historical/speakeasy feel to Linness. Adding in the unique magical system was wonderful. I also loved the who-dun-it feel of this book. The plot moves at the perfect pace, and you are investigating right along with the MC's. It has a murder mystery dinner type of feel to it. And the plot twists! They will have your head spinning! I enjoyed getting to know these characters and the world they live in!
I was hooked from page 1 and couldn’t put it down. I picked it up thinking, “I’ll just read a couple of chapters.” Yeah…that didn’t happen. I was so invested, I didn’t realize how much time had passed. I finished it in one sitting.
From the plot to the magic system to the characters, everything was absolutely amazing. The magic system was easy enough to understand but complex enough to be surrounded with wonder. The CHARACTERS. I usually connect with the characters more than the storyline, but these ones I connected with in an instant. I am honestly disappointed that this isn’t a series. I NEED more of them. They were amazing.
The chemistry and banter between the FMC and MMC were top-tier. It made me smile and snicker throughout the entire book.
The “side characters” who built an amazing found-family trope were each amazing in their own ways. It would be amazing to see them get their own books (I’m an author too, so I dream big with everything I read, even if it’s not mine 😂)
Now, the villain(s)… I despised them. There were a lot of moments where I wanted to step into the book just so I could slap them myself. They were the worst kind of evil.
And the plot twists! Each time I thought I knew where the story was going, the author hit me with a curveball that threw me off guard (in a very good way).
I could honestly talk about this all day, so I’ll wrap this up 😝
I would like to thank the amazing author, Courtney Millecam, for letting me be part of her ARC team. This book was everything I wanted and more! I am so glad you decided to write this story.
(I’ve just realized how many times I’ve said amazing in this review. I guess that’s one word to sum up this book. AMAZING!)
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Victory editing for the arc!!
5/5 ⭐️ This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year so I was SO excited when I got the arc! Gaslit fantasy is one of my absolute favourite genres and this certainly lived up to everything I would want from one and so much more. I absolutely loved the authors writing style, it has such a descriptive, immersive quality to it that you instantly feel like you’ve been transported to this world, everything is so easy to visualise which is also thanks to the incredible world building the author has created which has so much depth. I loved the characters so much, Gemma and Hendrik are amazing leads and I loved following them along on their journey and seeing things from their perspectives. I loved their interactions with one another and the pacing of their relationship was perfect. I loved the side characters too especially Zulema, Sadler, Judith, Jack and Grayson, and I’d really love to revisit these characters and this world in future books! Each character had so much depth and personality you instantly felt like you knew them and I loved the found family feeling their friendships gave as it made the book feel like such a comfort read. The plot itself is so intriguing and so hard to put down, the mystery was so well thought out and kept me gripped from the start and was full of twists I didn’t see coming, my jaw literally dropped at times and every reveal/ development happened at the perfect pace! It was such a unique plot and easily one of my favourites! I absolutely loved this book and will reread it again once it’s released!
In Magic at Midnight, Courtney Millecam blends mystery and heist into a story that feels completely original. Gemma has a rare and frustrating gift: she can access anyone else’s memories… except her own. That missing piece becomes everything when Hendrik approaches her, desperate to find out what happened to his missing father. The catch? To help him, she has to figure out who she is first. The two start off as reluctant allies. Hendrik sees Gemma as a way to get answers, not as a person. But as they dig deeper into the past, he begins to understand that she’s just as much a victim of circumstance as anyone else. What really makes the story stand out is how Millecam uses Gemma’s memory-walking ability to move the plot forward. Because memories are subjective, what Gemma sees isn’t always the full truth. That uncertainty keeps the tension high. If you’re looking for something immersive, layered, and just a little bit twisty, Magic at Midnight releases in May 2026. Definitely one to keep on your radar.
Magic at Midnight had me hooked from the very first line and it didn’t let go!
There were so many things that I loved about this story like it’s Gaslamp setting. We had foggy streets, steam powered skyway cars and magical nightclubs and it was so easy to picture the world. The plot was fast-paced and it had twists I didn’t see coming at all. At times it left me completely shocked. I wish I had read this as a buddy read because I needed someone to talk about the twists with.
And the reluctant allies romance was so well done. You could feel the tension as they tried to fight their feelings for each other. Also, I loved that the romance never felt rushed.
Highly recommended if you are looking for a high stakes Gaslamp fantasy. I hope we get more books in this world.
What to expect: - * Underground magic trade * Murder mystery * Con Artist FMC & Private Investigator MMC * Forced alliances * Slow burn romance – no spice
Rating 4.25 stars
Thank you to NetGalley for an Advanced Reader Copy
This young adult fantasy had such an intriguing concept that was done really well. I was hooked from the beginning with a main character who can access others memories but has no long term memories of her own. The stakes and complications just went up from there with a murder mystery, concealed identities, and cons within cons.
The gaslamp fantasy setting was excellent with really interesting world building and a speakeasy type feel—but with magic as the forbidden element. It was so atmospheric that I am itching to create an event or book club inspired by it. Seriously, I have a whole list of ideas for food and elements that would be so fun 😂.
There is plenty of danger, mystery, and wonder as well as a sweet romance wove throughout.
The tone is a bit darker and higher age level than the author’s previous series but still teen safe and free of any explicit content.
Trigger/content notes: Murder and some violence. Mentions of brothels but no details. Spice level is kissing.
Imagine waking up on the shore of an island with only one memory: your name.
That’s exactly what happened to Gemma. Now she works for the lady that found her, Mrs Bristol, a false magician. Until she sees a wanted ad in the newspaper of a girl that looks just like her.
Getting off Edelweiss island to find the girl in the paper won’t be easy. Neither will be finding her way around Linness, where magic is forbidden. What other secrets will Gemma uncover as she looks for the girl who looks just like her?
I love a good mystery! (Fun fact: I write a murder mystery for my book club every October!) This story was fun, cute, and had such a good plot twist! It was everything I want in a mystery! (Disclaimer: I’m not into the super creepy mysteries and this isn’t one of those). I was deep into the story trying to piece the puzzle together alongside Gemma. Also, the romance in this story is so sweet and I’m in love with them!
If you love Gas Lamp, Speakeasy, 1920s vibes, this book is perfection. Courtney writes in a way that brings the reader into the story. I can visualize the setting so clearly and I feel the ambiance she creates with her words.
That’s just the setting, the story itself was a page turner! I enjoyed getting to know Gemma right along as she was getting to know herself again. After being found washed up on a beach and not remembering who/where she came from except her name, the story quickly jumps into Gemma seeking to figure out what happened to her. She is joined by novice P.I. Hendrik and their story quickly weaves together. They both have secrets and they both need each other to discover them.
I wish this book was not a stand alone. Although it has a satisfying ending, I was left wanting more of Linness and Gemma and Hendrik. 💜
I’ve never had a book summary get me interested in a book faster than this one! And the book itself, absolutely delivered on its fascinating description. I loved the mystery and suspense throughout this story as the main character tried to discover and survive her past, while having no memory of it. Meanwhile she can see other people’s memories by just touching them. And the bit with the two main characters trying to con each other for a time was fun. The fantasy element mixed with the older “gaslamp” technology timeframe was perfect for this story. Very prohibition era vibe with clubs and curfews and secret magic tonics. From an “entertainment island” where magic is faked to the city where magic is hidden but used, I was hooked on this story from the beginning. And the plot twists...I was not ready. Amazing. Major props to the author for writing a creative and engaging story.
I loved the world this story was set in - the skyway cars were particularly cool and made me think of those trams you can take up mountains in European countries. 🚡 I really enjoy how creative and unique CM's stories are and all the twists and turns there are throughout. This one was no exception!
I really enjoyed all the mysteries and how they were woven together. I wish we had seen more of Hendrick investigating things because I thought that was a cool job for him to have stumbled into.
I do feel like the ending was maybe a little rushed? There was so much action and then it ended a bit abruptly in my opinion.
Overall, very enjoyable and scratched that mystery/heist itch. I will always read anything this author writes.
Thank you to the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I was immediately captivated with the premise; Girl has access to everyone's memories but her own - like, are you kidding me?! Can you imagine not remembering anything about yourself?! Where you're from, your family or friends?!
In Gemma's (FMC) quest to try and recover her memories, she's thrust into the enthralling, glitzy and dangerous city of Linness! Where she works alongside Hendrik, with secrets of his own, to try and uncover her lost memories. I mean, come on! Immediately yes!
I loved the found family, the side characters were all fantastic, the world was beautiful and the tension at the end of the book had me stressing out! I literally cannot say enough good things about this book! One of my favorite reads of 2026, for sure! Highly, highly recommend!
Magic at Midnight by Courtney Millecam With no recollection of her past, Gemma survives as a con artist on a small island where magic hums beneath the surface of daily life.... Wow, I really enjoyed this one! At first, I was a teensy bit unsure because the setting has a 1920s/Great Gatsby feel, but the promise of mystery and murder totally drew me in! And once I started, I loved it! The setting works really well with the magic system, and those twists made it hard to put down! Definitely an author I plan on reading more books from. I would recommend this one to older teens and adults. Genre: Fantasy (no spice) Standalone Favorite character: Gemma (FMC) Favorite scene: the meet-cute (pretty atypical!)
ARC (will be published May 12, all opinions are my own)
Thank you, Netgalley and author Courtney Millecam, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review! This book is such a delight to read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It has such a unique plot, and lots of mystery~! You follow the main protagonist, Gemma, a girl who has no memory of the past whatsoever. 9 months ago, she arrived on the Island of Edelweiss. She soon becomes entangled in a mystery, as a girl has gone missing whom people keep mistaking her for. She decides to pretend to be this girl to uncover the mystery! It was so cozy, and such an enjoyable read! I recommend 100%! Thanks again, Courtney Millecam and Netgalley for the ARC!
I loved the storyline and the characters! It was truly magical!
I loved Gemma! She will do anything to find the truth. Gemma is fierce and headstrong. I also really liked Hendrik. He is very passionate about what he does, and he is willing to do the work.
I loved the chemistry between Gemma and Hendrik. I wish there were a few more romantic moments between them. They really are meant for each other.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. There were a few points in the book where I thought it was a little too slow paced, but it picked back up.
Thank you to Courtney for letting me read this masterpiece!
This was such an engaging and refreshing read. It was perfectly paced, which kept me hooked from the very beginning and made it hard to put down. The worldbuilding felt uniquely crafted, with an intriguing magic system that added depth and originality to the story.
The mystery and suspense woven throughout kept me guessing and eager to see what would happen next. If you're looking for a fantasy with great pacing, a creative world, and a compelling mystery, this is definitely one to pick up.
I think this story is such a refresher. It also I think might be my first introduction into the gaslamp era. I have been deep in fantasy trenches so when I picked this up I don't think my brain was quite ready for this story. I defenitly think this was out of my normal comfort read but I know its an easy to love story. The plot was well done and the twist was phenomenal.
A thank you to the author for this gift to read early.
This was an exciting book that I really enjoyed reading. It is young adult however there was quite a bit of suspense and intrigue, and kind of some darker themes, but there is no spice. I think it was very well written and I truly enjoyed it, but I am a lover of most fantasy.. This does also have some sci-fi elements and like I said some darker themes, but overall an excellent read definitely one that I could read with my nieces and nephews and not feel weird about it..
I enjoy Ms. Millecam's magical worlds and the unique characters she writes! I would agree with Amazon's assessment that, given the gritty setting and hinted-at grownup details, this is definitely an upper YA (16+) book. I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. "Magic at Midnight" releases on May 12th!
This one was a joy to read. The magic was unique and I loved all the German influences in it. Plus the mystery had my intrigued where I didn't want to put this down. If you thought Garber's Alchemy of Secrets had a great balance of whimsy and romance and secrets, you'll love this one even more!
Wow!!! This was such a good story! I hated when I had to do real world things (like sleep) and put this book down. The characters, the twists and turns, the world building, the magic--I enjoyed it all!!