Welcome to Read This Book, a newsletter where I recommend one book that I think you absolutely must read. The books will vary across genre and age categories to include new releases, backlist titles, and classics. If you’re ready to explode your TBR, buckle up!
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Today’s pick is a book that you’ve probably seen around because it’s a big TikTok buzz title, but I’m recommending it anyway because 1) I am an Old who is barely on TikTok, and I only know it’s a TikTok fave because people told me, 2) this book genuinely made me laugh, and 3) maybe you’re wondering, is it worth the hype? I say yes! Give it a shot!
Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
Evie Sage has just had another very disheartening day at her village job fair, where she’s been unable to secure a job. Ever since her last position ended rather badly, she’s been desperate for work to help her support her sick father and young sister. When she wanders into the forest in a state of despondency, she’s not thinking about the Villain—but that’s exactly who she runs into. The Villain is feared throughout the kingdom for his dastardly deeds and is wanted by the king. Evie knows she should be afraid, but she’s weirdly…not. And it doesn’t hurt that the Villain is hot, either. Fascinated by Evie and her lack of fear, the Villain offers her a job as his assistant, and Evie readily agrees, even if people finding out means she’ll be ostracized. Sure, the job isn’t always easy or pleasant (lots of heads on spikes), but it turns out Evie’s good at it…but when it becomes clear that someone from within the Villain’s manor is out to get him, she becomes determined to root out the mole.
I picked this book up and read just a page before I knew that I definitely needed to continue. I loved the charming and hilarious voice, and while I know the over-the-top plot scenarios and character depictions might not work for everyone, I was really into this one as a fun fantasy escape. A lot of your favorite classic fantasy tropes can be found here, hilariously inverted and retooled to make for a hilarious “will they or won’t they?” romantic fantasy that kept me turning the pages. Despite the absurdities of the plot points, the author does a good job grounding the story in Evie’s desire to belong and to take care of those she loves, all while dealing with a messy past. The author also plays around with the idea of what makes someone “evil” or villainous, and surprise! There’s some nuance there! I enjoyed the hilarious romantic banter, the sexual tension, and the slow reveal of Evie and the Villain’s secrets. My only complaint? The cliffhanger ending that has me impatiently waiting for the next book!
Important note—this is an adult fantasy novel! While it’s not too gory, and there’s no on-the-page sex that might put off a younger audience, I wanted to make that distinction because I know some people have been confused.
TL;DR? Pick this up if you want a funny fantasy escape in the vein of India Holton.
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Happy reading!
Tirzah