Assistant to the Villain (Assistant and the Villain, 1) Paperback – August 29, 2023

With quotes like the above is it any wonder how in love I am with this book?I know it may seem as if it took me far too long to read Assistant to the Villain, but the reality of it is, I've savored every single sentence of this book since the moment I opened the Amazon box it was in. I think I've been waiting for this book since before I knew it would be a book. I've followed Hannah's journey on TikTok, just like everyone since the beginning and so the anticipation I felt for this book was basically unmatched.Not only did I have to read the physical copy I pre-ordered [ yay red edges! ] but I also needed to listen to the Audiobook version before being able to sit down and finally write my review. First - out of eveyr book I've read this year, this may have been my absolute favorite. Not only was Evie absolutely precious, but the myriad of emotions Assistant to the Villain made me feel...I'm in awe.From the short skits on TikTok, it was beyond clear that Maehrer was talented. But the way this story was woven together using fantasy elements as well realistic and relatable personal issues pulled me in and refused to release me until the very last page. And even then I was looking for more [ thank the gods there is going to be more! ]There were so many fun characters throughout this novel and I love how we find out tidbits about each of them and how they all kind of entertwine with each other. Kingsley was priceless and I need my very own cursed prince frog with signs now. That's all. Evie and Becky and their little fued give me life. I love how they can be absolutely irritated with one another and yet when it comes down to it...they both do what needs to be done and kind of back each other up even if they don't want to.I was pleasantly surprised to see we got chapters from Evie's point of view and the Villain's. I thought I remebered that was going to be a thing, but I was worried I imagined it - glad I didn't. Seeing into his mind, thoughts and motivations after getting to know Evie so well through the skits was a real treat!One thing that felt utterly relatable to me and that I genuinly loved was seeing into all the things Evie had gone through, her backstory, things people she'd lost, how other's in her village see her...all of that and yet still seeing what a good person she is. How she tries to do right by everyone and takes on the burden of taking care of those around her - putting everyone else first....and I think, seeing the changes in her and how she grows and stands up for herself and does what she feels is right even though it may be a bit gray at the end...it's everything okay?And the twist toward the end??? The only thing I can possibly relate it to is that moment in Frozen, where Anna is nearly freezing to death and looking for True Loves Kiss and we all find out Hans is a douchenozzel of epic proportions. But you all know the moment I mean...where we gasped and reared back like DISNEY...ET TU BRUTE? HOW COULD YOU....Yes that's what I felt in this moment before the ending. Exact gasp....the audacity! I can't even okay.And ending on a CLIFFHANGER??? SOBSSSS why? But also I cannot wait to see Evie make everyone pay....get it girl!I think the only truly negative thing I have to say is I didn't love the narrator of the book. She kind of fell a bit flat to me. I guess because when I picture Evie's voice and her general personality she seems so bubbly and full of life to me. And the narrator just didn't bring that through. Her voice was sort of wooden and short and not very lively at all. So, while I would 100 PERCENT reccommend this book, I would NOT reccommend the audiobook version. At least not if you haven't already read the paperback yourself. Because if you're only listening to it, it's going to affect the quality of the story because it'll be hard to listen to.

Loved this first book, ready for the next one, screw my tbr. The tension, the obvious attraction, the storyline and twists. Chefs kiss 😘

Evie and the Villain (Trystan) are two sides of the same coin. Evie just wants to provide for her ill father and younger sister Lyssa. The Villain? Well, he could always use more office staff. I have heard and read some of the hype for this book, but I wasn't convinced within the first few chapters. But with every thread that began to unravel in the story's weave, I became a believer. I generally like books that have spice, so I was a little disappointed there since there isn't any. But the pining and will they or won't they helped to fill the coffers. For anyone that wanted the witty side character girl in their favorite book or movie to pick up a sword and fight back, this is the book for you. 5 stars.

I haven’t read any of Ms. Maehrer’s works, but wow, this was an amazing adventure! Love Evie and of course The Villain and actually everyone! The “who done it vibe”, the details and back stories and the humor! Love it! Keep writing, I’ll keep reading!!!

If you’re a fan of whodunnit or mysteries, I’d highly recommend this one. Basically the entire story is just the reader trying to figure out who the “traitor” is.The world-building is good and the character development. If you can actually make me like multiple characters, that’s a win in my book. My favorite parts are when Evie is at work and we get to see all of The Villain’s employees interacting with each other.I was absolutely captivated by the mystery in this story. I wasn’t on the edge of my seat but it did intrigue me enough to want to find answers and finish the book. If mythical creatures like dragons and ogres are your thing then you’ll be pleased with this story.This book felt like how it feels to watch an adventure movie.There is very light romance in this book. It’s always there but it’s not the main focal point of the story. Which is odd considering this is labeled as a romantasy… They’re just growing close and figuring out feelings in this one. There’s a time skip and it doesn’t really explain why Evie came to love this “Villain” that is the most hated man in all the land. They also never even say why he’s the Villain. I found myself not even caring about them as a couple. Don’t get me wrong, I love a slow-burn but this was not that. A slow-burn implies that they fall in love slowly and maybe the reader falls in love with the couple in the same amount of time. These two were essentially already in love with each other in the beginning of the book. It basically was like here’s 2 characters they like each other with NO explanation as to why and no moments where you see how they fell in love. It’s like the story was like “they love each other bro just trust me”. I get wanting to leave readers wanting more so they’ll want to read the next book, but it doesn’t make sense for their romantic relationship to progress so slowly for a book marketed as a “romantasy”. The people want romance! So, if you are looking for a romance centered fantasy book then I’d skip this one. The romance definitely takes a back seat to the conflict between The Villain and the King. Seriously, all you get is one kiss in this book and they absolutely do not become a couple. And let me spare you, they don’t become a couple in the next book either in case you thought it was heading that way. Just more passionate kisses that get conveniently interrupted.I found the writing to be humorous but not laugh-out-laid funny. I think I read this is like a cross between the Office and some other show and let me just tell you, if you’re expecting to laugh like fire safety episode of the office, you’re going to be disappointed.Overall, it’s a really enjoyable book and is completely unique. I’ve never read anything like this. Aside from the romance, which is the only thing I didn’t like about this book, I really like the storyline. Also want to note, that there’s nothing in the dialogue of this book that implies it’s only for adults. It’s very silly and it’s something middle school aged children could read without being scandalized.