I’m so excited to officially announce our January 2026 Book Club Pick:
Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz 🌿💐

This cozy fantasy leans fully into whimsy, redemption, and soft magic. Set in the charming town of Dragon’s Rest, the story follows Violet, a plant witch whose reputation as a so-called “villain” doesn’t quite match the reality of who she’s becoming. Think vibrant flowers, sentient plants, gentle romance, and a warm, comforting atmosphere that feels like a hug in book form.

Visually and thematically, the novel carries strong “thornwitch” vibes softened into kindness—where sharp edges give way to growth, healing, and second chances. From Violet’s flower shop to the quiet magic woven into everyday life, this story is perfect for readers who love cozy fantasy with heart, humor, and emotional depth.

If you’re craving:
🌱 Whimsical, low-stakes fantasy
💕 Cozy romance and redemption arcs
🪴 Plant magic and charming small-town settings

…this one is absolutely for you.

I can’t wait to read and discuss this gentle, magical story with you all in January 2026 💚📚

Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore

by Emily Krempholtz

A powerful plant witch and a grumpy alchemist must work together to save their quiet town from a magical plague in this debut cozy fantasy romance about starting over, redemption, and what it really means to be a good person.

Guy Shadowfade is dead, and after a lifetime as the dark sorcerer’s right-hand, Violet Thistlewaite is determined to start over—not as the fearsome Thornwitch, but as someone kind. Someone better. Someone good. 

The quaint town of Dragon’s Rest, Violet decides, will be her second chance—she’ll set down roots, open a flower shop, keep her sentient (mildly homicidal) houseplant in check, and prune dark magic from the twisted boughs of her life. 

Violet’s vibrant bouquets and cheerful enchantments soon charm the welcoming townsfolk, though nothing seems to impress the prickly yet dashingly handsome Nathaniel Marsh, an alchemist sharing her greenhouse. With a struggling business and his own second chance seemingly out of reach, Nathaniel has no time for flowers or frippery—and certainly none for the intriguing witch next door. 

When a mysterious blight threatens every living plant in Dragon’s Rest, Violet and Nathaniel must work together through their fears, pasts, and growing feelings for one another to save their community. But with a figure from her past knocking at her door and her secrets threatening to uproot everything she’s worked so hard to grow, Violet can’t help but wonder…does a former villain truly deserve a happily-ever-after?

Reading Schedule

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