Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!!
3.5✨
« It is no simple thing to rise anew from the ashes of your old life. »

This was really unique and a fun time! The dilemma the FMC was facing around good vs bad was really well portrayed in the first 25%. I did find some things were resolved too quickly but it was nice to follow her through her healing journey. I think I would’ve liked to see her fall more, especially considering her past.

For the first 25% - I was completely hooked. But then the pacing started to be an issue and the tension just resolved extremely quickly. I wish the romance would’ve been more slow burn, because once it started - it was rushed. Nathaniel fell super fast, which I normally like but I think that for the sake of this story, was rushed. The ending was also extremely fast paced compared to the rest of the story.

The set of characters were cute and heartwarming. I think this was really good for a debut and would recommend it.

« You can long for something all you want, but you’ll never unlock the door if you’re too afraid to turn the key. »

There were some really great scenes and I loved the whole concept of it, unfortunately it wasn’t for me. But that doesn’t mean it’s not going to be a perfect read for someone else. I think it had a hard time deciding if it wanted to be cozy or not. I do see how a lot of people liked it because there are spicy moments and very witty moments. I loved the creatures and plants, I just think the writing style is what I wasn’t sold on. I do plan on reading more from this author in the future as a second chance!!

"Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore"by Emily Krempholtz
Emily Krempholtz's "Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore" unfolds in the quaint small town of Dragons Rest, where the imposing ruins of sorcerer Guy Shadowfade's castle loom above – a constant reminder of Violet's past as his adopted daughter. This unique setting is populated by a delightful array of characters, both primary and secondary.
At the center are Violet and Nathaniel, both grappling with the mistakes of the past as they navigate life in Dragons Rest. Krempholtz explores their journeys of coming to terms with their histories within the close-knit community. Their relationship becomes the heart of the novel, built on a shared, unspoken understanding of carrying personal weight. Adding delightful quirks to this world are a few memorable secondary characters: a seemingly ordinary pothos plant with a surprising penchant for "violence," a rock goblin who shares a unique bond with Nathaniel's new puppy, Daisy, and Pru, Nathaniel's vivacious twin sister who stands in stark contrast to his quiet, brooding nature. These characters, in their own unique ways, add layers of humor, warmth, and unexpected connection to the story.
More than just a personal story, the book offers a poignant reflection on the universal experience of grappling with past errors and the importance of recognizing the inherent goodness in ourselves and others. In the intimate setting of Dragons Rest, with its memorable inhabitants, Krempholtz subtly reminds us that everyone carries hidden stories, encouraging empathy and understanding. The interactions between Violet, Nathaniel, and the engaging secondary cast further illuminate these themes of acceptance and community.
"Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore" is an insightful read about forgiveness and connection, and it also weaves a mystery and a challenge into the narrative. It's a testament to the enduring possibility of finding light even in the shadow of the past, surrounded by the surprising friendships and bonds that make life in Dragon's Rest so distinctive.
M. Roberts
With the help of AI

I tried to finish reading this book but I really just couldn't get into it. The writing is good, and I love the premise, but it's like I can't feel the characters. There seems to be more talking about what they're doing. I stopped at about 34% in.

This was so cozy and managed to be low stakes but still have plot twists that had me gasping. The third act breakup broke my heart and was immediately pieced back together. I loved the grumpy sunshine dynamic of the love interests who learned to grow and become more complete individuals with the help of the other. I loved the cast of side characters and was sad to let them all go when I finished.

What a delight! This is a magical cozy fantasy about Violet Thistlewaite’s journey from villain to small town shop keeper. It has everything you want from a cozy fantasy. Friendly rivalry to romance. Sentient plant with a penchant for sharp objects. A charming cast of townsfolk. Magic and a little bit of low stakes mystery.

Excellent writing and storytelling. Slight lull in the middle but over all it has classic, cozy pacing. I love Violet’s journey and how she realizes the importance of all facets of herself.

It’s a good one!

Violet was a villain who got a second chance. The author provided a light, cozy fantasy with mild spice. Going in I expected to laugh, enjoy the basic formula romance and was pleasantly surprised when I got to the end. Sure, there are predictable elements but there were also things I didn't see coming which made it worth reading. Great for fans of assistant to the villain.

There is so much heart packed into this story. It celebrates growth, healing, and the idea that we are not defined by our worst mistakes. I loved how the author let the magic feel vibrant and alive without ever overpowering the emotional journeys. This book is a warm hug and a breath of fresh air and I am already counting the days until I can read whatever this author writes next.

This book was everything I’ve ever wanted in a cozy fantasy romance. Formerly the villainous Thornwitch, Violet is trying to start anew after the demise of her evil boss, and decides to settle in Dragon’s Rest and start a flower shop and hide her previous identity.

Only her new landlord and grumpy alchemist Nathaniel and her curious and quirky fellow townsdwellers make her attempt to fly under the radar difficult.

Nathaniel and Violet inevitably butt heads when she first moves in but as they get to know each other, they start to see their similarities and fall in love. But Violet is too scared to let anyone in and Nathaniel finds it difficult to trust after his parents’ death.

However, when a mysterious blight targets the town, the two need to join forces to save their home.

This book feels like being wrapped in a cozy blanket while sipping your favorite tea. I loved the emotionality of the characters, the quirkiness of the side cast, especially Peri the goblin and Bartleby the murderous plant. Nathaniel was the perfect grumpy romance hero and I could have read another hundred pages of their dynamic.

A five star read. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the read.

Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore is a light, fun read about a reformed villain trying to leave her dark past behind. Violet’s journey to redemption is filled with humor, heart, and some surprising twists. It’s a quick, enjoyable story about second chances and breaking free from expectations.

4.5 🌟

This was the cozy read I needed to get me out of a reading slump. I was very intrigued to get to read a redemption story about a previous villain. I think she never was a villain actually, at least now that I know the whole story. It was a very charming story about starting over, a clean slate, opportunity and trying new, unknown things. I felt for Violet because she finally got the chance to think of herself, her dreams and her future. Of course when the past catches up to her is when things get really interesting. But Violet setting up her flower shop, trying to be likeable in the small town and charm a certain alchemist was all very charming and entertaining to read. I love how it made it effortless for me to read this. It had the right pace, the right magic, romance and some simple fun plot. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it will be a great fall book to read when it comes out.

Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group, Ace, and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC!

Every once in a while a book comes along that feels like a warm hug and that's Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore. This novel is a cozy fantasy romance all about the magic of second chances. It features a compelling female protagonist, just enough of a high stakes plot, and a happy ending.

Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore follows the eponymous Violet Thistlewaite as she casts off the mantle of Thornwitch, right hand man to the evil wizard Guy Shadowfade, and opens a flower shop. Her shop is in the quaint town of Dragon’s Rest, which is also experiencing its own rebirth after the loss of their evil overlord in the castle on the hill.  There's just three measly problems: Violet doesn't believe she knows how to be good; her new landlord alchemist (with whom she shares a greenhouse), is a bit of an asshole; and there's a magical blight taking over the town. 

“She intended to make a home here without anyone knowing who she was and that meant not letting them see the fearsome face on the wanted posters.”

This alchemist, Nathaniel Marsh, is trying to keep his parents’ family business above water and only agreed to take Violet as a tenant for the rent it provides. Though he initially resents her existence and intrusion into his space, Violet’s flowers aren't the only thing to bloom, and the two slowly begin to respect, and eventually, enjoy one another. I think the novel does a mostly good job in establishing the relationship between Violet and Nathaniel. However, the transition to romance from rivalry or reluctant friends seems to happen pretty suddenly. I'm someone who lives for the yearning/slow burn, so I would have liked for this transformation to take even longer.

Despite that, I loved other facets of their romance. A really cute thing the novel did to show their relationship development was to show the signs outside both Violet and Nathaniel’s shops. These signs began at odds with one another and then over time, became more cordial, and then downright supportive. It was such a fun way to demonstrate their growing intimacy without having to tell the readers outright. 

I did find Violet herself to be an endearing character, if a little too pure and innocent for my tastes. She tries so hard to maintain a positive outlook after being raised by a villain to do bad things for him with her magic her whole life. She grapples with whether her magic can actually even be used for good, all while making beautiful flowers to brighten the days of the citizens of Dragon’s Rest. I struggled a bit with her characterization due to the unknown nature of why she had a sudden change of heart and went from being a villainess extraordinaire to a kind-hearted flower shop owner. 

Though readers do find out why this life change comes about, it's very late in the novel. While this does give readers the ability to come to like Violet for the sake of who she is now and who she is striving to be, without knowing all of the details of her tragic past, it does feel a little too easy for her to change her ways. There's a handful of moments where the novel shows her fighting violent impulses, but she easily squashes the urge, and they are few and far apart and really seem all that hard to resist in the first place. 

Violet, on the other hand, can't seem to resist the pull of Nathaniel, but I didn't find him nearly as likeable. I wasn't quite able to look past his flaws as easily as Violet, which lessened my enjoyment of the romantic aspect of the novel. Nathaniel’s developing feelings for Violet felt more forced to me than hers for him. To me, it felt like Nathaniel loved him in spite of himself and her, which doesn't seem like the best foundation for true, everlasting love. Though the novel tries to rectify this with a conflict at the end, it didn't really stick the landing for me because of how it happened and was over so quickly.

“He kissed her like a problem he wanted desperately to solve, like a formula he'd yet to crack, and he knew that, like every other puzzle her ever been faced with, he'd not rest before he could explore and understand every inch of Violet Thistlewaite.”

I'd like to note as an aside that there are at least two spicy scenes in this novel, but they aren't too frequent that they felt like boxes being checked off with certain readers in mind. Because of the lack of constant spice in contrast to other romance novels, it made the intimacy between the characters more touching. I didn't feel the need to skim past these scenes like I have in so many other romantasy novels lately because I actually cared about the characters and their feelings.

Though there is a larger stakes plot point at play here, with a mysterious magical blight taking over Dragon's Rest, it takes a backseat to Violet and Nathaniel’s personal journeys. I liked this because I never felt stressed, but still had plenty to keep me invested in the grand scheme. This is the perfect balance between cozy and interesting, which is exactly what I look for when I pick up a cozy novel. There's also some adorable magical creature sidekicks, which makes the novel feel even more homey, even if one of these is a (somehow endearingly) homicidal plant.

“You can long for something all you want, but you'll never unlock the door if you're too afraid to turn the key.”

My only other quibble is that the pacing Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore is inconsistent. While most of the novel has a slow, dreamy-like quality to it, things suddenly ramp up at the end with a lot of very drastic events occurring all at once. And then, the novel comes to a happy conclusion, which, while true to the heart of its message of second chances, feels rather abrupt. I realize this is a cozy romance fantasy novel, so most of us readers are looking for a happy ending, but it didn't feel entirely satisfying to me because of how briskly and neatly all of the loose ends and dramatic reveals were wrapped up. I wish Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain had been longer to give these events more time to unfold after so much time was spent on establishing other, less climactic parts of the book.

Regardless of my hang ups on the pacing and characterization, I really enjoyed every charming second of Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore. I would happily return to the world of Dragon’s Rest or read other works by the author. I think this is the perfect read for fans of other cozy novels, like Bookshops & Bonedust, The Phoenix Keeper, and The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches.

Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Fantasy, cozy fantasy, fantasy romance

Despite it taking me about a month to read this book, I absolutely loved it. One of my all time favorite cozy fantasies that I’ve read. The world building was deceptively simple at the beginning, but throughout the story there was real care taken to building a place that felt real and lived in. The characters were lovely and Violet and Nathaniel were both well rounded and just so human. I would’ve loved even more of the side characters and ADORED how they were used throughout the book. The writing was addictive and lyrical and perfect for this type of story. The romance was believable and developed naturally and there was, for me personally, the perfect amount of spice (which is to say, not a lot but enough to be a silly fun time).

If you’re a fan of fantasy romance or cozy fantasy and this premise sounds even remotely interesting to you, I think it’s worth reading.

Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore tried to be many things but didn't get there for me. While it has its charms (particularly Peri the rock goblin, whose scenes are delightful), the overall experience falls flat.

Somehow, it doesn't feel cozy enough, and the opposite is that there is not enough action for it to be a fantasy. The romance just isn't it for me either. I found myself wanting more emotional depth.

On the plus side, the playful touch of signage that shifts from mean to complimentary is a nice detail, and some lines like: "Having a landlord is a lot like working for an evil sorcerer" made me smile.

However, the narrative suffers from some repetition—phrases like "turned tail" creep up too often.

The story is enjoyable in parts but doesn't consistently deliver the homey, engaging atmosphere it aims for.

5/5 stars! This is a cozy PNR by author Emily Krempholtz. This was the coziest of cozy and I just wanted to sip my hot cider and snuggle my puppies. I liked the theme of having left behind her life as a "villain" and wanting to start anew. It is clear the author took her real-life knowledge of working at a flower shop and brought them to life in this story. Plus, I love a good grumpy sunshiny story. Cannot wait to see what comes next for this author.

Thank you Netgalley and ACE books for the ARC!

Violet Thistlewaite is Not a Villain Anymore was a fun, quick, read. I felt like Violet's frustration at trying to be good or "not a villain" was comical in the best way. The book was whimsical with dragons, witches, alchemists and more. Nathaniel is the grumpy alchemist who refuses to get close to Violet, who ends up charming him anyway. The setting is cozy and cute and the book made me want to curl up under a cozy blanket with hot tea. The only negative for me was the pacing. At times the extreme descriptions were drawn out, where larger elements moved quickly. I also started off a little confused with Violet's turn to goodness because of a warrior, who we don't learn very much about, at all! All in all, it was a great debut from Emily Krempholtz and I'm anxious (int he best way) to see where the characters go in the next book. (Fingers crossed there is one.)

I finished this book in one sitting , that is how addictive it is. If you are even a SLIGHT fan of cozy fantasy or cozy romantasy, you need to read this IMMEDIATELY. It was adorable, comforting, with a redemption arc I desperately needed. Also features some of my favorite tropes like found family and grumpy/sunshine.

This was so sweet and cozy and magical. I loved the plants and the found family and the dragon lore. Violet was so likable and I loved a grumpy MMC, plus the banter and the puns were so much fun. I definitely recommend this cozy witchy read.

Umm excuse me, Hello?!?!!!!! Where has this book been all my life.

I just wanted everyone to know I had zero expectations going into this book. If I’m being 100% honest I requested this book because the cover is adorable. But HOLY GUACAMOLE!!! THIS FREAKING BOOK GUYS. I’m seriously blown away and to top it off this is a debut novel for Emily Krempholtz.

Violet Thistlewaite is Not The Villain Anymore is seriously my top cozy fantasy read of 2025. I seriously haven’t fell in love with a cozy fantasy read since I read The House in the Cerulean Sea. I cannot express enough how whimsical and magical this book was. It is full of romance, magic, love, family, friendship, and second chances!

To give you guys a basic summary. Our story follows Violet, or Thornwitch. She recently left the life of villainy behind to start over and “do good”. On her journey of starting over she decides to rent and open a flower shop. Where she meets her new landlord and grump alchemist, Nathaniel. The two butt heads, but after a mysterious blight comes to town seeking to destroy their way of life the two must work together to save their home.

I feel like there aren’t enough words to stress how much I loved this book. Our main characters are easy to relate to. They both have such emotional depths that you can’t help but fall head over heels in love with them. The romance so sweet and genuine. I shipped our grumpy v sunshine couple from beginning to end. The side characters were also spectacular. I was so invested and cared so deeply for every single one of them. To the point where I need spin off books for all of them.

In all seriousness if you can’t already tell this is a 5⭐️ read. And I need everyone to check this book out when it releases November 18, 2025. I for one will be immediately purchasing a trophy copy upon its release. Lastly big Thank you to NetGalley, author Emily Krempholtz and Berkley Publishing Group for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This book was everything I didn’t know I needed—a cozy redemption arc with a splash of spice and just enough magic to keep things interesting (without making my brain feel like it had to memorize a fantasy glossary).

Violet’s trying really hard not to be a villain anymore, and watching her stumble her way toward softness and second chances was so deeply satisfying. Also? The grumpy alchemist she's stuck sharing a greenhouse with? Yeah. I see you, Nathaniel. The tension, the banter, the mutual pining—it’s all delicious.

And look, I’m not usually one to fall for sentient houseplants or cursed plagues, but somehow it all works here. The magical elements add flavor without overpowering the real heart of the story: figuring out who you want to be when your past won’t stop whispering that you’re still the worst version of yourself.

This book is sweet, sharp, and just a little spicy—like the literary equivalent of cinnamon whiskey in a teacup. I adored it.

Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review—Violet, I’d help you bury a body.