Book Review: Accomplice to the Villain

"Accomplice to the Villain" is the third installment in the "Assistant and the Villain" series by Hannah Nicole Maehrer, published in August 2025. The series centers on Evie, who, after losing her job, must support her ailing father and younger sister. While wandering through the forest, she unexpectedly encounters THE VILLAIN, who offers her a job as his assistant.

Upon accepting, Evie navigates a bizarre work environment filled with hanging heads, sinister to-do lists, and her charming yet villainous boss. Meanwhile, mysterious and shady occurrences unfold around her and the kingdom.

In Book 3, Evie transforms from Apprentice to Accomplice, rapidly gaining courage and power. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The kingdom's drama intensifies as more items are needed to save the world, beloved side characters face danger, and romance becomes more prominent, involving more than one couple. The story is entertaining, cute, and humorous.

The plot is filled with challenges. Rennedawn and the rest of the world are at risk of losing their magic, prompting the group to search for prophesied items to save the world. Betrayal and deceit persist, complicating the crew's efforts to trust and accomplish their goals. The diminishing magic affects some favorite characters, and romance blossoms among more than one office couple. (wink wink)

SPOILER ALERT!

Now, I'd like to share my thoughts on certain events.

#1 - KINGSLEY NOOO!!! I'm deeply worried about Kingsley. With magic waning, he experiences episodes where he vanishes, leaving only a frog behind. A mindless frog that wanders, nearly harms itself, and focuses on catching flies. I worried about him throughout the book, and when the surprise at the end occurred, I'm unsure if I trust it's truly Kingsley, especially since the note was in the same script as the mysterious traitor's. Hmm.

#2 - Finally!!! Some progress in the romance department. I believe the destiny foretold to Trystan in Book 2 might not mean what Trystan thinks. It could be interpreted differently, depending on perspective. "Being his downfall" might mean his villainous heart softens and he changes for the better, signifying the downfall of the villainous aspect, not Trystan himself. I'm glad they eventually decide to go for it.

#3 - I HATE Trystan's mother! She's such an evil character, and I can't imagine a redemption arc for her! I hate to say it, but right now, I hope she either dies or is imprisoned for life!

Final Thoughts

This series is fantastic, filled with humor, adventure, betrayal, and everyday office antics set in a world with a dragon in the courtyard and a witty frog on your desk. If you enjoy cozy, fun romantic fantasy with lovable characters, this series is worth exploring. The characters develop throughout, and the stakes rise as you progress. It's become a favorite series of mine that I'll revisit repeatedly. I eagerly await Book 4, "Adversary to the Villain," releasing on August 4th, 2026!

Please share your thoughts on this series or comment on any questions. I'd love to discuss it with you! Happy reading, and until next time!