Review: Apprentice to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

About the Book

NOTICE TO STAFF: There has been a disturbing increase in cheeriness, sprightly behavior, and overall optimism of late. Please resume your former dark, ominous terrors at your earliest convenience. ―Mgmt

Evie Sage has never been happier to be the assistant to The Villain. Who would have thought that working for an outrageously handsome (shhh, bad for his brand) evil overlord would be so rewarding? Still, the business of being bad is demanding, the forces of good are annoyingly persistent, and said forbidding boss is somewhat…er, out-of-evil-office.

But Rennedawn is in grave trouble, and all signs―Kingsley’s included―point to catastrophe. Something peculiar is happening with the kingdom’s magic, and it’s made The Villain’s manor vulnerable to their enemies...including their nemesis, the king.

Now it’s time for Evie to face her greatest challenge: protecting The Villain’s lair, all of his nefarious works, and maybe (provided no one finds out) the entire kingdom. No pressure, Evie.

It’s time to step out of her comfort zone and learn new skills. Like treason. Dagger work. Conspiring with the enemy. It’s all so…so…delightfully fun.

But what happens when the assistant to The Villain is ready to become his apprentice?

Review

Hannah Nicole Maehrer is on a winning streak with this series. I wholeheartedly enjoyed this installment. Like the first, there’s so much humor, an entertaining plot, and witty banter. Of course, the slow-burn romance is to die for. The Villain and Evie do not get together yet; however, there is some development. Some squeal worthy and some were bound to make me cry if they didn’t figure it out. It’s safe to say that I do adore them both. I specifically loved Evie’s growth from assistant to apprentice. The title has certainly been earned.

As for the other characters, I’m pleased to report that we get more insight regarding them. A big theme that I noticed throughout this book was family. And I loved how all the characters through their families were connected in some way. It’s also worth mentioning that Lyssa—Evie’s younger sister—was delightful and a scene-stealer. As well as Becky. She and Evie had a sweet moment in the latter half of the book that I highly enjoyed.

Final Thoughts

Apprentice to the Villain is another hit. This is a perfect follow-up to the first book that beautifully expands this exciting universe. I am patiently waiting for the next book. I had loads of fun while reading this, and at times, the story really pulled at my heartstrings.  

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