The Villain Era Is Definitely Back—and Honestly, I’m Not Mad About It

Written By Andrielle Figueroa

I kicked off the new year reading as much as I possibly could, and now that we’re rapidly approaching quarter two… I’ve somehow made it through 27 books. And well, I’m noticing a trend.

I love a villain. A morally gray, golden-retriever-adjacent type who yearns something fierce.

I know better. I’ve read the trigger warnings. We don’t trust all men.
And somehow… I still feel safe in the hands of Josh Hammond from Lights Out. And when I tell you I appreciated demon after demon written by Harley Laroux (insert sweating emoji here).

Do I have your attention? Do you want the right villain in your life? Let me tell you about a few series I’ve loved so far.

Why Are We All in Our Villain Era Right Now?

There’s something about morally grey characters that feels more honest than the typical “good guy.” They’re messy. They make bad decisions. They want things they probably shouldn’t.

But they’re also:

  • Loyal in ways that feel intense

  • Honest about who they are

  • Completely driven by desire

And that kind of character? It’s hard to look away from.

The Books That Pulled Me In

If you’re even slightly curious or already deep in your own villain era, these are the series that have completely taken over my reading list.

Assistant to the Villain by Hannah Nicole Maehrer

The way I binged this series and am now patiently waiting for the next installment (August 2026, I’m looking at you). This series has everything: magic, dragons, constant twists, and what I would call a slightly more PG version of toxic love.

These books are built on yearning. And if I’m not getting hella spicy scenes, I need the yearning from everyone in the room.

At times, the story can feel a little long-winded, but I actually appreciated the layering.

There were so many moments I genuinely didn’t see coming, which made the payoff worth it. I love a strong female lead stepping into her power, but I also love when she’s rethinking choices and doesn’t fully understand the bigger picture yet. It feels real.

✨ If this is your vibe:

  • You love workplace romance with a twist

  • You want tension > spice

  • You enjoy chaotic villain energy with feelings

Light’s Out/ Caught Up by Navessa Allen

Okay. So if you’re looking for explicit, open-door romance (that is… questionable at times), mixed with comedic relief and exploration of kinks—welcome.

In Lights Out, Josh Hammond is a bit of an unhinged nerd with strong golden retriever energy, which, unfortunately for me, is exactly my type.

But Caught Up? That’s where my heart lives.

Nico “Junior” Trocci and Lauren Marchetti absolutely stole the show. Their dynamic felt confident, layered, and honestly just fun to read.

Yes, read your trigger warnings. Always.

But I actually appreciated how themes like exhibitionism and sex clubs were handled. There was a surprising level of care, communication, and consent that made everything feel more grounded.

Also, Lauren is a sex worker with LGBTQ+ friends and a strong chosen family. We don’t see that enough. It felt inclusive and refreshing.

✨ If this is your vibe:

  • You like explicit, open-door romance

  • You want humor mixed with spice

  • You appreciate inclusive, modern characters

Souls Trilogy by Harley Laroux

This was the last series I finished, and what a ride. Think: romantasy + witchcraft + horror, all wrapped together.

Each book focuses on different characters, but they all tie into a larger story. I loved how the overlap added depth and context; it made the world feel bigger and more immersive.

These are longer books (we’re talking 500+ pages), but I genuinely couldn’t put them down. You get:

  • unpredictability

  • magic

  • demons

  • and women still figuring out who they are

And of course… devoted demons.

Callum (our final arch demon) was easily my favorite. Supportive, attentive, and pushing his partner to see her own power in new ways. We love a man who loves his woman.

Also, when these characters leave their “marks” on each other, it’s often through piercings. 10/10. No notes.

✨ If this is your vibe:

  • You like darker romantasy

  • You want immersive world-building

  • You’re here for demons with emotional depth

💭 Final Thoughts

I think what I’m realizing is this:

I love a villain with redeeming qualities. Someone who learns, adapts, and still remains just a little bit toxic but deeply values trust, passion, and connection.

And honestly? That’s just more fun to read. Am I the only one in my villain era?
Tell me your favorites—I’m always looking to add to my TBR. Happy yearning.

Andrielle Figueroa