Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer
Glad I read it
I finished this as part of a ten-day readathon. I know I’ve been saying that a lot; it’s definitely helped me find the passion for reading and reviewing again. I just hope I can continue the trend after the motivation for completing tasks disappears. However, as I sat down to write this review, I found out that this book was big on BookTok. I will say that I enjoyed this so much more without the hype. It wasn’t amazing, but it was worth the time I spent yesterday and is worth three stars.
“Assistant to the Villain” by Hannah Nicole Maehrer is a refreshing twist on the classic villain trope, blending humor, heart, and a dash of fantasy. The protagonist, Evie Sage, finds herself working as an assistant to a notorious villain, and the story explores the unlikely dynamics between them. The book’s strength lies in its witty dialogue and the chemistry between characters, making it an enjoyable read despite some predictable plot points.
The world-building is decent, though it occasionally feels underdeveloped, leaving some elements to the reader’s imagination. The pacing is brisk, which kept me engaged, but it also meant that certain character arcs and subplots felt rushed. Maehrer’s writing style is accessible and engaging, perfect for a YA audience, though it might not offer the depth that older readers seek.
Part of the reason I picked it up is to try and find YA reads for my nephew, who is very picky. I think maybe if I was his age, I might have enjoyed it more. As an adult reader, I found myself craving more complexity and depth in the story and characters, but I can see how the humor, fast pace, and unique premise would appeal to a younger audience. The book has a certain charm and whimsy that might resonate more with teens, making it a potential hit for my nephew if he gives it a chance
