Apprentice to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

In a world where magic is fading and kingdoms are on the brink of collapse, who would’ve thought that the most captivating tale would center around a cheerful assistant to the realm’s most feared villain? Hannah Nicole Maehrer’s “Apprentice to the Villain” proves that sometimes the most engaging stories come from the most unexpected places—like the depths of a villain’s lair.

From Assistant to Apprentice: A Journey of Growth and Mayhem

Picking up where “Assistant to the Villain” left off, this second installment in Maehrer’s series plunges readers back into the chaotic world of Evie Sage and her enigmatic boss, known simply as The Villain. Evie’s journey from bumbling assistant to competent apprentice is as hilarious as it is heartwarming, filled with moments that’ll have you snorting with laughter one minute and clutching your chest the next.

A Cast of Characters You Can’t Help But Love (or Love to Hate)

Maehrer has a knack for creating characters that leap off the page, each one more vivid and entertaining than the last. From the stoic but secretly soft-hearted Villain to the ever-loyal frog prince Kingsley (complete with his adorable little signs), every character adds depth and flavor to the story.

I found myself particularly drawn to Becky, the no-nonsense HR manager with a hidden past. Her sharp wit and gradual softening towards Evie provided some of the book’s most touching moments. And don’t even get me started on Blade and his dragon-training antics—I’d read an entire spin-off series about that guy!

A Plot That Keeps You Guessing (and Giggling)

While the overarching plot revolves around saving the kingdom of Rennedawn from a magical catastrophe, it’s the smaller, more personal moments that really shine. Evie’s attempts at becoming more “villainous” are endearingly clumsy, and her growing feelings for her boss add a layer of tension that had me frantically turning pages.

The pacing is spot-on, with moments of heart-pounding action balanced by quieter scenes of character development. I particularly enjoyed the sequences at the Fortis Family Fortress—talk about family drama! The revelations about Evie’s mother and the true nature of the prophecy were genuinely surprising and added depth to the world-building.

Magic, Mayhem, and a Dash of Romance

Speaking of world-building, Maehrer has created a rich and intricate magical system that feels both familiar and fresh. The concept of fading magic and its consequences on the kingdom adds a layer of urgency to the plot, while the various magical artifacts and beings (hello, destiny creature!) keep things interesting.

And can we talk about the romance? The slow-burn tension between Evie and The Villain is heart warming. Their banter is top-notch, and the moments of vulnerability they share are genuinely touching. I may or may not have squealed out loud during their sparring scene in the rain. Just saying.

A Writing Style That Sparkles

Maehrer’s writing is a joy to read. Her prose is witty and engaging, with a knack for clever turns of phrase that had me chuckling throughout. The dialogue feels natural and flows seamlessly, capturing each character’s unique voice.

One of the things I appreciated most was the author’s ability to balance humor with more serious moments. While the book is undeniably funny, it doesn’t shy away from deeper themes of family, loyalty, and the nature of good and evil.

A Few Minor Quibbles

No book is perfect, and “Apprentice to the Villain” does have a few small issues. Some of the side plots, like the situation with the guvres, felt a bit underdeveloped. And while I enjoyed the twist with Evie’s brother Gideon, his redemption arc felt a tad rushed.

Additionally, some readers might find the villain-centric perspective challenging, especially if they’re used to more traditional “good vs. evil” narratives. But for those willing to embrace the darker side of things, it’s a refreshing change of pace.

Comparisons and Context

“Apprentice to the Villain” stands out in the crowded field of fantasy romance. While it shares some DNA with books like Naomi Novik’s “Uprooted” or Katherine Arden’s “The Bear and the Nightingale” in terms of its magical world-building, Maehrer’s unique blend of humor and villainy sets it apart.

Fans of T. Kingfisher’s “Paladin’s Grace” might appreciate the similar mix of romance and humor, while those who enjoyed the workplace dynamics in Ali Hazelwood’s “The Love Hypothesis” will find plenty to love in Evie’s office misadventures.

For those new to Maehrer’s work, I’d highly recommend starting with “Assistant to the Villain” to get the full context of Evie and The Villain’s relationship. But fear not—”Apprentice” does a good job of recapping key events for those jumping in mid-series.

Final Thoughts: A Villainously Good Read

“Apprentice to the Villain” is a delightful romp that proves sometimes it’s good to be bad. With its endearing characters, clever plot twists, and pitch-perfect blend of humor and heart, it’s a book that’ll have you cheering for the bad guys and questioning everything you thought you knew about villainy.

Maehrer has crafted a world that’s easy to get lost in, populated by characters you can’t help but root for (even when they’re doing decidedly villainous things). It’s a testament to her skill as a writer that she can make readers sympathize with characters who, in any other story, would be the clear-cut antagonists.

Who Should Read This Book?

If you’re a fan of:

• Fantasy with a twist of humor
• Slow-burn romance with plenty of banter
• Morally grey characters and complex family dynamics
• Stories that challenge traditional notions of good and evil
• Office shenanigans (with a magical twist)

…then “Apprentice to the Villain” should be at the top of your TBR pile.

“Apprentice to the Villain” is a near-perfect blend of fantasy, romance, and humor. Its few minor flaws are easily overshadowed by its charm, wit, and heart. I laughed, I (almost) cried, and I definitely fell a little bit in love with a villain. What more could you ask for in a book?

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be impatiently waiting for the next installment. After all, I need to know what happens next in the professional (and personal) life of Evie Sage, Apprentice to the Villain. And maybe, just maybe, I’ll start looking at job listings for villainous lairs. You know, just in case.

About the Author

Hannah Nicole Maehrer is a rising star in the fantasy romance genre. “Apprentice to the Villain” is the second book in her Assistant to the Villain series, following the success of “Assistant to the Villain.” Her unique blend of humor, heart, and villainy has quickly gained her a devoted fanbase eagerly awaiting each new release.

Similar Books and Series

For readers who can’t get enough of villainous romance and magical worlds, here are a few recommendations:

1. “Gild” by Raven Kennedy (The Plated Prisoner Series)
2. “A Deal with the Elf King” by Elise Kova
3. “To Kill a Kingdom” by Alexandra Christo
4. “The Shadows Between Us” by Tricia Levenseller
5. “Sorcery of Thorns” by Margaret Rogerson

These books share themes of morally grey characters, magical worlds, and romance with a twist, making them perfect companions to “Apprentice to the Villain.”

In conclusion, Hannah Nicole Maehrer’s “Apprentice to the Villain” is a gem in the fantasy romance genre, offering a fresh perspective on villainy, love, and what it means to be truly wicked (in the best possible way). It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a story that’s equal parts hilarious, heartwarming, and delightfully devious. Just don’t blame me if you find yourself rooting for the bad guys by the end!