Court of Midnight and Deception: The Complete Trilogy

Court of Midnight and Deception #1-3

by K.M. Shea

The fae of the Night Court are desperate to find and crown their new monarch before the Court collapses.

I couldn’t care less.

I’ve done everything I can to bury my fae blood and embrace my human half. That changes when some fae nobles show up on my doorstep and announce that I’m the next Queen of the Night Court.

Becoming an unwilling fae queen? Check. Inheriting a terrible mess? Double check.

The Court is almost bankrupt, my citizens’ favorite hobby is backstabbing one another, and I don’t know who I can trust since someone keeps trying to assassinate me.

Speaking of assassins, I get introduced to the best in the business—a fae lord nicknamed the Wraith. His deadly profession means he fears No. One.

The only reason he doesn’t kill me on the spot is he’s a member of the Night Court and the Court’s magic protects me. But that doesn’t prevent him from trading verbal barbs with me whenever we meet.

And if cat herding uncooperative fae while chatting with assassins wasn’t enough, I’m required to get married as part of some archaic Court law. This “queen” gig is the worst!

Supposedly I can choose anyone to marry, but with all the infighting I need someone who is unaffiliated and won’t cause political power struggles.

So, why do I keep thinking of a certain assassin?

Court of Midnight and Deception is a completed urban fantasy trilogy that takes place in the Magiford Supernatural City universe. It features fae, werewolves, vampires, and wizards!

This trilogy is packed with humor, adventure, and a sweet, slow burn romance between a reluctant fae queen and the assassin who tried to kill her.

This bundle includes all three books in the series: Crown of Shadows, Crown of Moonlight, and the Queen’s Crown.

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Fae, Paranormal, Romance, Fantasy Romance, Young Adult

1088 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 30, 2022

About the author

My pen name is K. M. Shea, but my readers—I prefer to call them Champions—call me Kitty.

I love to write funny, clean stories with strong characters. Books like that are among my favorite to read so naturally I love writing stories like that as well. My philosophy is that life is tough, so books should be something that makes you relax and laugh!

VISIT MY FACEBOOK GROUP
https://www.facebook.com/groups/27090...

VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
https://www.amazon.com/K-M-Shea/e/B00...

VISIT MY WEBSITE
https://kmshea.com/

Reviews

[Sarah Ryder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another solid urban fantasy series set in this universe! My family and I are really enjoying these and Leila’s story is no exception. I still love Hall of Blood and Mercy more, but this series was still fantastic and so much fun!


🌙Crown of Shadows—4 stars 🌙

Fae are petty and downright mean. Why are they so popular in fiction these days?

Yes, I’m starting my review for a book I really liked this way. Yes, I know it’s weird. Just don’t question it too closely because I have no idea either. 😆

I really enjoyed this! Leila is a super fun, independent character and being an animal lover myself I love that she’s one too not to mention a devoted pet owner to the extreme, haha. Not to mention I love how positive she is despite being thrown in a situation she never wanted or asked for. And at first Rigel reminded me of a block of wood but by the end he was slowly revealing a personality so I have a feeling he’ll develop more of one as the series progresses and he and Leila become closer. 😏 And as always the snark and sarcasm is so spot on and hilarious.

And even though the fae are petty and mean their power play is interesting to untangle if a bit annoying and frustrating for Leila and me, lol. I’ve also come to the conclusion that the first book of each of the Magiford trilogies I’m probably going to rate four stars due to the groundwork of the magical world we’re in at the time and the characters and then once everything solidifies and such I’ll rate the other two books higher. Maybe. 🤷🏼‍♀️ It’s just a theory, so we’ll see if I’m right!

I’m looking forward to seeing were Leila’s story goes from here!


‼️Content‼️

Language: what the heck; what the; heck; oh my gosh; arse; crud; darned; screwed up; gee; holy cow

Violence: giant spiders attack a character which she smashes and sprays with wasp spray (not detailed); a character is shot at; a man’s neck is sliced (not detailed); a large object is smashed over a man’s head; a character shoots at a woman; a statue almost falls on a woman; a shadowy monster attacks a character; injuries and blood (not detailed or shown)

Sexual: a couple very mild suggestive hints

Drug/Alcohol: a character drinks; food is magically poisoned

Other: magic; vampires, werewolves, fae, wizards and other magical creatures/beings; a character is an assassin; a character is a gambler



🌙Crown of Moonlight—5 stars🌙

Oh my goodness I loved this! Things just skyrocket from book one and go pell mell to a wonderful yet heartbreaking conclusion that I loved every minute of.

Leila continues to grow and while she stays sassy and throughly not caring about fae politics and jerk face moves she also really does care about them and what happens to the realms and courts as a whole, not just the Night Court, which made me care about the fae as well (even though I still want to kick several of them). And I love Rigel and his attempts to figure Leila out, lol. His personality really shines and I ADORE his and Leila’s banter and relationship—it’s both totally cute and sweet and downright funny all at the same time. All the other characters have such great (or ANNOYING!! *glares at Fell*) personalities that just leap of the pages with such a realness you can literally feel.

The plot was totally fun too and I applaud the author for managing to make the petty fae and assassination attempts different here even though that same structure is in book one. But the ending!!!!! Rigel, Lord Linus whhhyyyy?!?!?! 😩 (I mean, I know why for Rigel but still…!!!!!)

VERY anxious to read the final book!


‼️Content‼️

Language: heck; dang it; oh my gosh; crap; what the heck; what the

Violence: a man’s neck is sliced (not detailed); magical traps are set for a character to kill them; shadow creatures attack characters; fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); a couple animals are injured in a fight; people chase after/hunt a stag (no killing); a shadow monster is ripped apart (not detailed); a dagger stabs a woman’s shoulder

Sexual: a wife notices her shirtless husband’s abs; mild suggestive hints; a husband and wife sleep together (nothing sexual)

Drug/Alcohol: magically drugged tea make people drunk; mentions of attempts to poison a woman

Other: magic; vampires, werewolves, fae, wizards and other magical creatures/beings; a character is an assassin



🌙The Queen’s Crown—5 stars🌙

I teared up at the end and when a book does that I know it did something right. A smashing, wonderful, funny yet heartbreaking and swoony end to a series I was afraid I wouldn’t like when I started reading book one but ended up loving!

Leila is still sassy and wonderful but I feel she matured into someone the fae really needed even though they and she wouldn’t admit it at first, haha. And with Rigel talk about a total about face! He went from a character as emotive as a block of wood to having such depth and uncertainty my heart ached for him and his struggles to see himself as worthy. Not to mention he and Leila are a swoony plus comedy gold couple, lol. And I will forever love the sledding scene and death by toboggan! 🤣🤣 (if you know you know)

The side characters all shine and have grown beautifully and I love how the whole Night Court has come to love and respect Leila so much, because the end scene where they show this love the most is the one that made me tear up but I can’t talk about it because it’s a massive spoiler! So just know it’s awesome and read the book for yourself to find out why. 😉

So while Hall of Blood and Mercy remains my top Magiford series so far, I loved Leila’s story so much and would highly recommend it, especially if you love fae but wish they would chill the heck out on all the backstabbing eventually. 😂


‼️Content‼️

TRIGGER WARNING: a person killed themself with magic to avoid being caught (not shown)

Language: gosh darn; what the heck; what the; oh my gosh; dang it; gee; screwed up; dang; hell; hellhole; heck; holy cow

Violence: giant spiders attack characters (not detailed); fighting with weapons, magic, and hand to hand (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); a girl is kidnapped; a person killed themself with magic to avoid being caught (not shown); in the past a character’s family wiped each other out; characters shoot other people in self defense

Sexual: a husband and wife sleep in bed together (nothing sexual); mild suggestive hints/comments; kissing (not detailed); a wife notices her husband’s ripped chest

Drug/Alcohol: spiders have poisonous, venomous goo

Other: magic; vampires, werewolves, fae, wizards and other magical creatures/beings; a character is an assassin

[Brittnee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5*
Lighthearted and funny urban fantasy.

-Dual POVs
-The animals 🐶🐱🐴
-Unexpected friendships
-"It's fine!" 😂

[L & J Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely charming and extremely humorous

This excellently written clean, cozy romantasy trilogy is part of the Magiford series. The 3 books chronicle the relationship between Leila, who designated by the magical Night Mares as Queen of the Fae Night Court, and Rigel, the assassin hired to kill her. The Night Court she inherits is bankrupt, its borders are magically shrinking and because she is just half Fae, most of the nobility hate her, and after being crowned she is still being targeted for assignation, but she is determined to change things for the better. I heartily recommend the entire series to anyone who enjoys fantasy. The world building is impressive and the plot pacing is great, with unexpected twists and turns.

[Jai M {Cat Crazy Dragon } · Rating 4 out of 5]

good, better, best

What is so frustrating about this author, is how good she is! And how obvious the poor issues holding her back are..

Too wordy- less extraneous dialogue and detail, more story delivery, if you want to be a romance, then you need to include it!, don’t be so obvious in your story devices, pick - either smart or not - don’t make them lack just as a set-up, if you use a character repeatedly (2 or 4 legs) flesh them out (please).

Repeated complaints by many. Yet, we all still read 😂 all still enjoy and want more…

[Tabitha · Rating 5 out of 5]

We love Leila from meeting her as the next door neighbor of Killian and the Drake vampires. She suddenly becomes queen of the Night Court through no choice of her own and completely turns it upside down. The whole series has her learning how to be a queen, connect with her court, connect with her husband (she had to get married to be crowned) all while being attacked and targeted. Love this series. Rigel grows on you as well, and maybe even Linus and Chrys. You'll love her pets, too. Definitely worth reading.

[Amena · Rating 5 out of 5]

a series to re-read many times

This series, like everything K.M. Shea writes, is humorous story with deeper messages beneath, and all of it is worthy of re-reading. The point on fear is one I like to highlight and read repeatedly, while the jokes and sassy references make me laugh every time. For relaxation and escape, this series is the one you want to pick up first.

[Madelyn- The Squeaky Clean Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Queen Leila is the queen of all urban fantasy books. She's everything you ever want in a heroine. Long live Queen Leila of the Night court!

[TheAudiobookReviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Possibly my favorite series ever. First off, the main character is HILARIOUS, the romance is adorable, and the twist is excellently done. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say stop reading this review and start reading this book.


Narrators: 5/5
Both narrators capture the personalities of the characters perfectly. The intonation is great. The different characters' voices are easily distinguished.

Plot: 5/5
Gripping. Engaging. Fun.
Usually I see twists coming a mile away, but this one took me totally by surprise, even though there was more than enough foreshadowing to make sure it didn't come out of nowhere.

Characters: 5/5
So many fun and memorable characters.

World-building: 5/5
With the HUGE caveat of I haven't read many books involving "fae". That said, I was thoroughly impressed with the worldbulding and society-building and how well that was used to drive character-development, backstory and the plot.

Romance: 5/5
Slow-burn and adorable. I started the book thinking "There's no way she's going to get me to enjoy this romance or like this male lead." Now it's my favorite romance. Ever. It's slow-burn, romance after marriage, and adorable.

Re-readability: 5/5
I've already listened to the whole trilogy twice and am excited for the next time I go through it again.

Language/Sexuality: I'm pretty sensitive to language, and I don't remember any. I'd call it squeaky clean. No sex on- or off-screen. The FL/ML are married pretty early on, so we do see them share a bed and we do "see" the ML topless a couple times, plus a lot of talk about his abs. There are a few kisses that I would consider quite chaste.

[RachReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Light, cute, easy read. Not my favourite of the Magiford series, so 3 to 3.5 ⭐️. Overall it’s an okay read to continue on with the interconnected storyline. Very much prefer other FMC’s in these series, and even more so other MC’s.

For a species that can’t lie there is a lot of miscommunication and lies that go on in this series even if it’s not directly spoken. Not my favourite trope.

I also prefer MC’s to fall for FMC’s, and not to have them not love the FMC’s until the very last moment possible. I’m not even talking insta love, but it would have been nice even if it was only in his pov (mind), that the MC was starting to love rather than just be oblivious and like “I could never…”

Also, I don’t know if it’s just me but forgiveness is WAY too easy to come by for this FMC. For example her mother lies to her about so much her whole life and when the FMC dares to express herself just a little about it (i.e her father), she’s bullied by her mom to do as she commands and the FMC just rollover like spineless little child who’s been scolded her whole life and is incapable of doing anything other then what mommy says. Then all of a sudden one conversation her absent father later everything is all good. Because an entire lifetime is that easy to forget about. And it’s not just him, any and all things are just forgiven by this FMC. For me it just made her frustrating to read.

[J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful message

I read almost all the Magiford series before I read this one (which I enjoyed and found them to be fluffy fun) so I knew about Leila from her cameos in the other trilogies. I was expecting this trilogy to be similar to the others, and it was just as good, but I was surprised by the beautiful message of redemption, forgiveness, and kindness. I was getting pretty teary-eyed by the end of the third book. Leila is imperfect but if only all our government leaders ruled with the goal of getting everyone to "be kind". "Be kind" is my personal motto and I love its repeated appearance throughout these books.

The series has a lot of humor, plenty of action, some not too gory fantasy violence, one not descriptive killing at the very beginning, and sweet romance with only a few sweet (not spicy) kisses at the end of the whole trilogy. I loved the progression of all the relationships in the books.

This is my favorite series of all of them (I only have four Magiford books that I have yet to read).

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may be my favorite of KM Shea’s Magiford trilogies - it’s certainly tied for the top if it isn’t my favorite. I think this is my third time reading it, and it’s been several years since my last read through. Interestingly I remember the first book the best, and the second book the next best. I didn’t remember much of the third book except for one event I had thought happened in the second book, and the very end. Anyway, Leila is open and engaging and makes me just root for her to win out all the way through, and it’s so heartening when she does. Rigel is an unexpectedly excellent foil to her, which is part of the appeal, but in truth all the relationships in this trilogy are fun to read about and watch grow and develop. To include animal sidekicks. Four stars more because there are some mistakes and awkward word uses that should have been picked up and fixed in editing. The story is excellent though. There is tension, but not a lot of angst, and the whole series has Shea’s trademark humor, which tends to set her books apart from and above many others.

[Rhona Connor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A slow burning romance SPOILERS

This is the trilogy of books about Leila, a half fae/human who has been selected by some animals to be the Queen of the Night Court. The only Night Court in the USA. Despite her reluctance to do so, she knuckles down to the job, despite assassination attempts, she selects an Assassin as her Consort because he has no political connections. The court is broke, bankrupt and everyone sniping at each other. But slowly she finds a way for them all to be together as friends, helping each other. But her loss of land due to tgd toxic miasma, that is biting at the night realms wards. Her non connection to the land due to being only half fae. This is a good book. The animals see the true Queen and she receives gifts of their magic. She is aided by her friends Hazel and Killian Drake, Chase ( werewolf) and slowly her friendships with the other Court monarchs of Magiford. She will find a way to earn her husband’s love.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A supernatural city with characters you will love

Boy am I sad to finish this series. After reading Gate Myth and Legends Trilogy, then the Hall of Blood and Mercy Trilogy, I had to have more of Magiford and it's supernatural citizens. The Court of Midnight and Deception Trilogy did not disappoint. Leila is a half fae. When the nightmares of the Night Court come to declare her the next queen, she refuses to believe it. Right up until the assassin known as the Wraith comes to kill her. She is a fighter, and refuses to be a deceptive Queen and play the court games. What better way to protect herself than name the Wraith as her King Consort. Lots of intrique, humor and slow burn romance.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last book

I have read this series before but come across hazels story that's before this one and starting reading only to realize I read it before but then decided to 're read, so thought I would again there is seasons (last time I read all in wrong order) hazel and killian is first, Leila is the neighbour before she meets the nightmares. I think there is a wolf season next.first book/series is wizards and vampires fighting the fae.this series is the fae but there is different courts.
I remember another series to do with the paragon and the high ups.so think there is many series that link set in same world, this book talks about young elfs that ran, I think I have read that series.
I like how author made box sets better for reading series in order

[An. Step · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second trilogy I have read and it did NOT dissapoint!! I loved how clean it is (it's the number one thing I look for in a book), I love that while I don't reread books.....I LOVED rereading this and the Hall of Blood and Mercy!! KM Shea is JUST THAT GREAT OF AN AUTHOR!! I loved the characters, the adventures, the plot....just ALL of it and DEFINITELY recommend. I am over 21 but that does not mean that I want to read stories that are share TMI when it comes to romance. I have to skip SO many stories with amazing plots that I want to read but they have so much profanity and TMI moments that it ruins the fun for me. KM SHEA DOESN'T! I will definitely continue reading her stories!

[A book by the Fire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Court of Midnight and Deception trilogy by K.M. Shea! 🌙 Leila's journey from reluctant fae queen to cunning defender of her court is both hilarious and heart-warming. And let's not forget the slow-burn romance with the grumpy assassin, Rigel! 💖 With a strong plot and delightful characters, this trilogy is an absolute gem. Perfect for fans of urban fantasy with a touch of humour and romance! 5/5 stars! ✨📚

Find a full review on my blog: https://abookbythefire.wordpress.com/...

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have definitely read this world's books out of order, but I was happy to finally get to this one. Leila is a character we met in another series, and she's back and in trouble. She is made Queen of a fae court - all of a sudden and without her consent - and is thrust back into the worst of fae politics. There are numerous assassination attempts on her life, but the best part is the friendship that grows between her and 'The Wraith,' one of those assassins who were out to get her. I really enjoyed the night mares and their antics, but I was kinda over the donkey.

[LY · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Very disappointed with Court of Midnight and Deception Trilogy after reading Chloe & Noctus and Hazel & Killian. In comparison, the dialogue/theme was more repetitive, plot was too slow at times, and there was no spark between Leila & Rigel. I'm okay with both slow burn and insta-love books but I didn't feel anything for this couple. I ended up skimming a pretty good chunk of Book 2 and Book 3 and considered not finishing it. The books have KM Shea's trademark witty dialogue which is why I'm giving it 2.5 instead of 2 stars.

[Cora P. Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Court of Midnight a Magiford supernatural city tale!

I adore K.M. Shea's stories of Magiford! This one is terrific as always, with magic, mystery, action and romance! Who could ask for more? Her stories are hilarious, CLEAN, thrills a minute, well thought out and beguiling! I love her books and read them over and over! Every age can enjoy them because they (thankfully) lack the filth of porn in them which is much appreciated by serious readers! I cannot express enough how great, whimsical, and endearing her stories are! 5 star rating all around!

[J.D. White · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG !!! LOVE THIS!

I think out of all the characters, the Night Court (now that the icky Nyte chick is gone!) are my new favs. Especially the animals of the Night court!
Leila proves she has the biggest heart and that it's not appearances that matter when losing your heart to a pet.
There's a lot of references to previous storie events and characters, but you don't need to read them to know what's happening. Although, you really should! Magiford is worth it !

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartwarming, HEA Fae tale!

This is the 2nd trilogy I’ve read by K.M. Shea and it’s just as entertaining as the first! Nice to have a heroine who is a little unsure of herself and holds friendships in high regard, and who also develops confidence and power as she overcomes continuous challenges. I especially like the menagerie of magical “pets” and beings from mythology that surrounded and supported her.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent

Loved the Vampire/Witch saga and this is just the great read I hoped. Reading of a half Fae/half Human who becomes Queen of one of the Courts and has great fun in pulling the others into the wondrous ways of modern humans, especially (gasp) drinking coffee. Yes, I'm a Brit but I drink coffee as well as tea. I understand perfectly. Now I am about to start on the Shifter ones.

[Sandra Bassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

a different read

I have enjoyed this trio, each rolled into each other with no endlessly repeating the last book. Precise information is appropriately told.
Enjoyed each character and the Fae life, drama, culture was enlightening.
While an easy read there is enough twist & turns to keep your interest. I knew who the assailant 1/2 way thru but unsure why and how so enjoyed til end. I see an another trilogy if and when she might be empress which I am sure I would enjoy.

[Paula Dawes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never trust a Fae

I loved being able to get all of Leila and Rigel story in one book! Leila definitely has her work cut out for her when she becomes queen of the Night Court. They are broke, unhappy she is half human and the castle is literally falling down around her ears. I also like how main characters from other books are either important to the story or hinted at.
Take a chance on Leila, you won’t be disappointed

[Eve Gaddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this trilogy. Shea is a new to me author and I have more of her books on my TBR pile. The books were funny and original. I loved the various characters--they were different from what I've come to expect in romantasy. It might be the humor. I loved the heroine. She was snarky and funny and her love of animals was great characterization. Loved the animals too. I blew through the three books and can't wait to read more!

[Barb Cittadino · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Magiford Universe is always a great place to visit

K.M. Shea has written another enjoyable trilogy set in the Magiford Universe. The story is a good balance of world building, relationship building, intrigue and slow burn romance. Leila, the FMC, is a solid combination of smarts and snark, and her evolution is well paced and logical.
I’m off to the next trilogy so I can keep in touch with my new literary friends.

[Pam Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Most Excellent Read!

I highly recommend this engaging & exciting adventure for the imagination. I love the magical creatures and their loving advocate, Night Queen. I hope there will be more books featuring these characters & their companions. I confess I found this book out of the correct reading order, so I am going back to the series that brought this realm to literary life. Enjoy.

[Cedar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic Series!

I read these stories when they first came out, and was thrilled they were just as good when I read this boxed set. I don't often buy my books, preferring using Kindle unlimited but bought this trilogy ... if it's good enough to reread, it's certainly good enough to buy and have it ready for next time!

[Alice K · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great trilogy. It built on the lore and history, carried through the overarching plot, but gave us a well paced thriller. I read the entire trilogy in 2 days. Highly recommend.

Like the first trilogy, we got a complex and well written heroine. She was goofy and a bit nuts, and I adored her.

[M Spencer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun and Hopeful

I love this author. This trilogy doesn’t disappoint, with characters that are multidimensional, challenges that are just as at place in our world as they are in Magiford and ongoing mysteries to unravel as our Queen learns the ropes, this trilogy was an excellent read.