Review of Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by G.B. Krempholtz
Every once in a while, a book finds its way into your hands that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by G.B. Krempholtz was just that for me—an absolute delight that left my heart feeling all sorts of cozy and whimsical. When I received the ARC from Ace and Berkley, I had a gut feeling this story would resonate deeply, and boy, did it deliver!
At its heart, this tale is about redemption and growth wrapped in the sweet, floral scent of magic. I was thoroughly enchanted by the titular character, Violet. As someone who adores villainous female main characters, I loved seeing her struggle against her own nature—her journey from a self-perceived bad character to someone who yearns to do good was beautifully rendered. Krempholtz crafts her magic—sprouting plants and flowers—with such charm that I couldn’t help but smile at every turn. Honestly, the way Violet nurtures life felt like a brilliant metaphor for personal evolution.
Let’s talk about Nathaniel, the grumpy but lovable alchemist whose past haunts him deeply. His character perfectly complements Violet’s arc. I loved watching him wrestle with his fear of his own powers, something that aligns compellingly with Violet’s desire to change. And as far as quirky alchemy nerds go, Nathaniel is an absolute gem! His relationship with his twin sister, Pru, injected delightful humor and warmth into the story, balancing out the more serious moments. Pru had such a fun and refreshing energy that I found myself chuckling at her antics and wishing for more of her scenes.
While their romantic journey was sweet, I did wish for a deeper emotional connection between Nathaniel and Violet. Their relationship fluctuated between competition and playful banter, which I enjoyed but often felt a bit forced. It was charming enough, yet I craved a few more heart-fluttering moments to truly make me feel the spark. That said, their dynamics kept the reader engaged, so perhaps my expectations were just a tad high!
The enchanting town of Dragon’s Rest painted a perfect backdrop for their stories, rich with history and colorful characters. The blend of growth, community, and rivalry made each twist—the appearance of the delightful Bartelby and the whimsical Peri, for instance—utterly captivating. Krempholtz masterfully balanced the introduction of conflicts, ensuring that just when one issue resolved, another awaited, which kept the pacing lively and engaging throughout.
In summary, if you’re seeking a cozy fantasy to add to your spring TBR, this book should absolutely be on your list. Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore is perfect for anyone who enjoys whimsical stories of redemption sprinkled with light romance and bursts of humor. It left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside, reminding me of the power of growth and community. I can’t wait to see what Krempholtz comes up with next! 🌼
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