Content levels
Heroine archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Themes
Synopsis
The Empire stands triumphant. For twenty years the Dread Empress has ruled over the lands that were once the Kingdom of Callow, but behind the scenes of this golden age threats to the empire are rising. The nobles of the Wasteland weave their plots behind pleasant smiles while rebellion stirs beyond Peren Woods, for dreams of crowns were buried in shallow graves. The greatest danger of all lies to the west, where the First Prince of Procer has restored order at last: her people sundered, she ponders if a crusade might not be the way to secure her reign. Yet none of this matters, for in the heart of the conquered lands the most dangerous man alive sat across an orphan girl and offered her a knife. Her name is Catherine Foundling, and she has a plan.
A Practical Guide to Evil 1: content & age rating
Intended for adult readers (18+).
This dark fantasy contains significant violence, political machinations, and morally complex characters navigating an oppressive empire. The protagonist is offered a path to villainy, exploring themes of power, corruption, and the cost of resistance.
What to know going in
This book has strong violence, mild sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include death, violence, and war (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens and adults will be drawn to Catherine's cunning plan and her journey through a morally gray world where the lines between hero and villain blur.