Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore: A Cozy Found-Family Fantasy Book Review

Violet Thistlewaite was the Thornwitch, sidekick to the villainous Shadowfade, until she betrayed him to his death, became good, and nestled herself right into the community most harmed by her former father figure.

This was a very sweet, cozy read that had some serious moments but never left us in suspense for too long.

If you like found family, grumpy and sunshine, and an interesting but not agonizing exploration of how badly a terrible father can mess up his daughter’s idea of herself, this is the book for you. Oh, and a really charming cast of side characters, stabby plants named Bartleby included.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy to review.

Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz is out November 18, 2025. Preorder your copy to pick up in the shop by messaging me here.