Apprentice to the Villain

Hannah Nicole Maehrer

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4.6(112 Ratings)
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cover backgroundApprentice to the Villain

About this book

Evie Sage is perfectly happy as the assistant to The Villain. Yes, the Villain. Who knew that working for someone outrageously handsome could be so much fun? But when a prophecy turns Evie into the key player in stopping an unspeakable evil, she'll have to decide if her loyalties lie with her boss, or with the kingdom she swore to protect. Between accidentally incinerating office supplies, dodging rogue assassins, and maybe, possibly, falling for her boss, Evie's learning that embracing her destiny might just be the most villainous thing she's ever done.

Get ready for a laugh-out-loud fantasy romance where office mayhem meets epic adventure. This TikTok sensation turned novel is perfect for readers who love quirky characters, witty banter, and a devilishly charming villain.

Summary of Key Ideas

  • Flipping the Script: Morality Isn't Black and White

    Subversion of Fairy Tale Tropes: The novel cleverly inverts traditional fairy-tale roles and expectations, presenting a world where villains might not be entirely evil, and heroes may have questionable motives. This challenges readers to reconsider preconceived notions about good and evil, creating a morally gray landscape where characters are complex and nuanced. The story encourages readers to look beyond simplistic labels and understand the motivations behind actions, fostering a deeper appreciation for moral ambiguity.

  • Love's Redemptive Arc: Changing for the Better

    The Transformative Power of Love: The evolving relationship between Evie and the Villain is central to the story. Their connection explores how love and acceptance can soften even the most hardened hearts and inspire personal growth. It suggests that genuine affection and understanding can lead to redemption and change, proving that even those perceived as villains are capable of love and transformation. This theme underscores the idea that relationships can be a catalyst for positive change.

  • Beyond Good and Evil: Complex Characters, Complex Choices

    Redefining Heroism and Villainy: The book challenges the traditional definitions of heroism and villainy. Characters often blur the lines between these roles, demonstrating that individuals can possess both heroic and villainous qualities. This prompts readers to question societal norms and consider that true heroism may involve making difficult choices that aren't always perceived as traditionally 'good.' It encourages a more critical and nuanced understanding of morality and justice.

  • The Bonds That Tie: Loyalty's Price and Reward

    The Importance of Loyalty and Trust: Loyalty and trust are recurring themes, especially in Evie’s dedication to the Villain. The story explores how these qualities can be both a strength and a vulnerability, influencing decisions and shaping relationships. Characters grapple with questions of who to trust and how far to remain loyal, revealing the complexities and potential consequences of unwavering allegiance. This highlights the delicate balance between fidelity and self-preservation.

  • Unearthing Truths: The Weight of the Past

    Secrets of the Past: Evie's quest to uncover the truth about her mother, Nura Sage, is a key plotline, dealing with her past and its implications for her present. The journey highlights the burden of secrets and the importance of confronting one’s history to understand oneself. This search reveals hidden truths and affects her relationships, demonstrating how past events can profoundly shape one's identity and future. The story underscores the idea that confronting the past is essential for personal growth and healing.

  • More Than Blood: The Strength of Chosen Family

    Found Family: Evie finds a sense of belonging and acceptance within her unconventional circumstances working for the Villain. This theme emphasizes the importance of chosen families and the bonds that can form outside of traditional familial structures. The characters support and care for each other, creating a surrogate family dynamic that provides love, acceptance, and strength. This highlights the idea that family is not always defined by blood, but by the connections we forge and the people who support us.

Chapter Recap

Part 1Evie Sage’s first week as The Villain’s assistant was going about as well as could be expected, which is to say, poorly. The Villain, Trystan Maverine, found himself increasingly distracted by Sage’s unfaltering cheerfulness, a stark contrast to his own fiery demise that had been plaguing his existe
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About The Author

Hannah Nicole Maehrer

Main Quotes

"She was afraid, but she knew now: fear usually meant you were standing on the edge of something new, something self-altering, something potentially good."

"Sometimes family isn't a thing we are born into but a choice we make. Sometimes—Evie smiled—the people who love you most in your life are the ones who choose you."

"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."

"The poor girl was corrupted by The Villain. I suppose, though, in its own way, it was a merciful death. There's no saving someone who has tread such a dark path."

""You just can't kill people and be pretty. It's confusing.""

"“What matters is our plan.""

"'No one cared who I was till I put on the mask.'"

"'The hardest choices require the strongest wills.'"

"'In their last moments, people show you who they really are.'"

""There's a difference between fear and respect, Evie. Never fear me.""

Who Should Read This Book

Readers of fantasy romance

Fans of BookTok recommendations

Readers who enjoy stories with villains and morally grey characters

Readers of lighthearted and humorous fantasy

Readers looking for a "cozy" or easy read

Adults who enjoy YA-leaning fantasy romance

Readers who enjoy slow-burn romance

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