Book Review: APPRENTICE TO THE VILLAIN

Cassie Holguin

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Thank you to Red Tower Books for a copy of Apprentice to the Villain in exchange for an honest review. 

Apprentice to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

Evie Sage works for the most notorious bad guy in all of Rennedawn, The Villain. Someone as optimistic and cheery as Evie may seem out of place at Massacre Manor but do not judge a book by its cover. Sage has paid attention while working for the ruthless (and handsome) Trystan Maverine and has learned a few things. Just in time too because something is draining the magic in Rennedawn which puts Evie’s newfound family in danger.

The kingdom needs a savior and Evie Sage might just be this unlikely hero. Armed with a magical dagger, a beloved group of allies, and new information about her past, Evie aims to be the best apprentice to The Villain. Will everything she has learned be enough to protect those she loves or will this promotion be the death of her?

Loose Ends Become Golden Threads

A few loose ends from the first book become interesting plot points in Apprentice to the Villain. We learn more about Trystan’s froggy friend Kingsley which was something I wanted more of. Evie’s mother and brother also become increasingly important as we learn more about Evie’s family and her father’s betrayal. 

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Everything begins to tie together in a riveting way including how all of these characters are connected (whether they know it or not). Each character also adds a new piece to the puzzle and I can’t wait to see how it all comes together. 

Refreshing Fantasy

Hannah Nicole Maehrer has a refreshingly creative mind when it comes to fantasy. From ancient magical beings to powerful sentient plants, the fantastical elements are my favorite part of this series especially in Apprentice to the Villain. There were so many scenes that I read and thought, “This would make a great movie or show.” 

Rom Com Feels

The relationship between Evie and Trystan remains touch and go but some progress is made in their slow-burn relationship. We even get a little spice though nothing too shocking. Other office relationships blossom and create even more workplace drama. The smattering of romance and genuinely amusing humor gives Apprentice to the Villain the heartwarming romantic comedy feels that we love. 

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Serious Character Development

Maehrer really focuses on character development in Assistant to the Villain. Not only do we learn more about the main characters Evie and Trystan, we also get some surprising revelations about other Sage family members.

Perhaps the biggest development comes from Rebecca, the no-nonsense head of human resources (also Evie’s office rival). We learn the secrets she has been keeping close to her chest and these revelations push relationships to new levels. Learning more about these characters and how they tie together pulls me hard into this series. 

To Read or Not to Read?

Apprentice to the Villain is exciting from beginning to end and Maehrer has created a strange little family that has completely pulled me in. All of the characters have grown on me and I am completely invested in this adventure. This fantasy has a bit of everything from romance and humor to magic and danger. 

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Be sure to put this book on your radar because this series gains heavy momentum with Apprentice to the Villain. I highly recommend this one and will be impatiently awaiting the next adventure. 

Apprentice to the Villain is now available wherever books are sold. Get your copy at Barnes & Noble.

Book Review: ASSISTANT TO THE VILLAIN

Cassie Holguin

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