Book Review: Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Kira Krempholtz
When I first stumbled upon Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore, I was immediately intrigued by the title. After all, how many stories dive into the rich, complex world of a reformed villain? Kira Krempholtz’s debut novel promised whimsy and warmth, and it delivered a delightful reading experience that felt like a gentle hug on a cozy day. A big thank you to Ace and Berkley for providing me with the arc—I was utterly charmed!
From the moment we meet Violet, I was smitten. She embodies the essence of a villain heroine, a rarity that’s hard to find, yet she retains this tender, almost whimsical heart that constantly battles her darker impulses. Watching her grapple with her need to be good felt incredibly satisfying. Her unique magical ability to sprout flowers and plants not only serves as a beautiful metaphor for her character growth but also offers a refreshing twist to the cozy fantasy genre I’ve been so enamored with this year. Krempholtz’s playful use of puns and analogies related to botany and alchemy enriched the narrative, making it feel both thematically coherent and genuinely fun. I couldn’t help but chuckle at the storefront sign competition between Violet and her counterpart, Nathaniel—it perfectly encapsulated the light-heartedness of the story.
Ah, Nathaniel—a grumpy alchemist whose struggles with his past power misuse create a layered and compelling character. I found his journey to embrace his alchemical abilities again resonated well alongside Violet’s own path. Their shared experiences of overcoming fear made for a nice narrative synergy. And can we talk about Nathaniel’s quirky, nerdy charm? I fell in love with his character while reading; he is every bit the lovable, broody hero we all crave in cozy fantasy. Though their relationship felt somewhat overshadowed by their competitive spirit, I appreciated how nuanced their bond became over time. While I wished for a bit more fire in their romance, their moments of spice and sweetness were still enjoyable.
The small town of Dragon’s Rest is an absolute gem in this story. Krempholtz paints a picturesque setting that draws you in with its warmth, and the eclectic characters who populate it made the world feel alive. From the history of the Sorcerer’s reign to Violet’s struggle against her past, I found all the threadlines seamlessly woven together. The pacing was spot on; just when I thought I had everything figured out, a new issue would gracefully rise to challenge our protagonists. It kept me glued to the pages!
Oh, and let’s not forget Bartelby, the homicidal pothos plant, and Peri, the charming stone goblin—a whimsical duo that added even more heart and humor to this enchanting tale.
In conclusion, Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore is a must-read for anyone searching for a cozy, magical escape—especially as we inch closer to spring. It invites us into a world where redemption is possible and where the journey to find oneself is just as important as the destination. If you’re a fan of floral puns, uplifting character arcs, and a dollop of sweet romance, this book deserves a place on your TBR.
Overall, this book not only entertained me but also reminded me of the beauty in transformation, making it an experience I’m grateful to have had. So, grab your favorite blanket and a cup of tea—this book will surely warm your heart!
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