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L'eredità di Charlie
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Science Fiction (2023)Un thriller fantascientifico con umorismo, cuore e tanti gatti; un crime grottesco e irriverente, vincitore dell’Alex Award.
Ereditare l’attività criminale del proprio zio è più complicato di quanto si possa pensare. La vita di Charlie è in stallo; è un supplente divorziato che vive con un gatto in una casa che i suoi fratelli vogliono vendere, e tutto ciò che vorrebbe è aprire un pub in centro. Questo solo se la banca decidesse di concedergli un prestito. Quando lo zio Jake muore, Charlie si ritrova in eredità la sua attività malavitosa, con tanto di isola vulcanica. Ma diventare un supercattivo non significa solo raggi laser giganti e pozzi di lava. Suo zio aveva dei nemici che ora danno la caccia a lui. Nemici facoltosi e senza scrupoli finanziati da multinazionali e capitali di rischio. Spetta a Charlie vincere la guerra iniziata dallo zio contro una lega di supercriminali. E con i delfini sindacalizzati, i gatti spia parlanti ed estremamente intelligenti e un terrificante scagnozzo al suo fianco, diventare un supercattivo sembra essere un vero spasso.
Ereditare l’attività criminale del proprio zio è più complicato di quanto si possa pensare. La vita di Charlie è in stallo; è un supplente divorziato che vive con un gatto in una casa che i suoi fratelli vogliono vendere, e tutto ciò che vorrebbe è aprire un pub in centro. Questo solo se la banca decidesse di concedergli un prestito. Quando lo zio Jake muore, Charlie si ritrova in eredità la sua attività malavitosa, con tanto di isola vulcanica. Ma diventare un supercattivo non significa solo raggi laser giganti e pozzi di lava. Suo zio aveva dei nemici che ora danno la caccia a lui. Nemici facoltosi e senza scrupoli finanziati da multinazionali e capitali di rischio. Spetta a Charlie vincere la guerra iniziata dallo zio contro una lega di supercriminali. E con i delfini sindacalizzati, i gatti spia parlanti ed estremamente intelligenti e un terrificante scagnozzo al suo fianco, diventare un supercattivo sembra essere un vero spasso.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2023
4903 people are currently reading
104292 people want to read
About the author
John Scalzi
180 books28.1k followersJohn Scalzi, having declared his absolute boredom with biographies, disappeared in a puff of glitter and lilac scent.
(If you want to contact John, using the mail function here is a really bad way to do it. Go to his site and use the contact information you find there.)
(If you want to contact John, using the mail function here is a really bad way to do it. Go to his site and use the contact information you find there.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 14,208 reviews
September 22, 2025
Can a guy who takes in stray cats and nurses his ailing father till his death make it as a supervillain?
When our down-on-their-luck "hero" finds himself at a crossroads in his life, the death of his mother's brother (a billionaire he doesn't know) isn't anything but a blip on the news.
Until that is, his uncle's personal assistant comes to him with a favor.
A favor that then turns into him inheriting the world's largest corporation of evil.
For someone whose dream is to own the local pub and be a good cat dad, getting thrown into the deep end with a bunch of hardened evildoers isn't exactly ideal.
Cute story.
And it answered all the pressing questions about villains from my childhood such as, why do the evildoers sit around stroking their cats menacingly, what's up with volcano lairs, and would it be a good idea to unionize genetically modified dolphins?
All it needed was a map showing the location of all that damn quicksand that was supposedly just waiting to suck me under, and I could die happy.
But I'm not going to lie, the cats made it 100xs better for me. We have 4 cats (aren't they adorable?) so that just lets you know I'm definitelyCERTIFIABLE the target audience for this book.
It's a very tongue-in-cheek kind of story, so it's maybe not going to hit with everyone, but if you're a Scalzi fan already then you'll more than likely enjoy this one quite a bit.
Audiobook read by Will Wheaton = totally worth it.
When our down-on-their-luck "hero" finds himself at a crossroads in his life, the death of his mother's brother (a billionaire he doesn't know) isn't anything but a blip on the news.
Until that is, his uncle's personal assistant comes to him with a favor.
A favor that then turns into him inheriting the world's largest corporation of evil.
For someone whose dream is to own the local pub and be a good cat dad, getting thrown into the deep end with a bunch of hardened evildoers isn't exactly ideal.
Cute story.
And it answered all the pressing questions about villains from my childhood such as, why do the evildoers sit around stroking their cats menacingly, what's up with volcano lairs, and would it be a good idea to unionize genetically modified dolphins?
All it needed was a map showing the location of all that damn quicksand that was supposedly just waiting to suck me under, and I could die happy.
But I'm not going to lie, the cats made it 100xs better for me. We have 4 cats (aren't they adorable?) so that just lets you know I'm definitely
It's a very tongue-in-cheek kind of story, so it's maybe not going to hit with everyone, but if you're a Scalzi fan already then you'll more than likely enjoy this one quite a bit.
Audiobook read by Will Wheaton = totally worth it.
October 8, 2023
“I didn’t see the knife until the dude was just about to stab it into my uncle’s corpse.”
If at your estranged billionaire uncle’s funeral not only there are wreaths with inscriptions of “You’re dead? LOL” but the mourners are trying to stab the body to make sure he’s indeed dead, you may want to ask a few questions.
And maybe you’ll realize you just inherited a legit (so to say - “It’s mutual assured destruction, with a subscription fee”) business of being a villain to the supervillains.
Too bad that up until now your experience included business journalism, substitute teaching, barely making ends meet while taking in cute stray cats. (Well, at least cats may help the supervillain image, but the rest, well…)
“Instead I’m here on an island in the Caribbean, being told I need to talk to the dolphins in the middle of a labor action about some whales that might have torpedoes, armed by a secret society of villains who want access to a storeroom full of objects probably looted from the victims of the friggin’ Nazis and who are maybe willing to blow up my volcano lair to get it.”
———
I adore John Scalzi. The thing is — yes, books like these are light and fun, and ridiculously entertaining, and will not be deep or profound or life-changing, and that is just perfect as far as I’m concerned. “Profound” in the current literary climate often means “depressingly bleak” and “will suck your lifeforce out through a tiny straw” — and Scalzi is the opposite of that, thank f*ck.
If you love cats, you will adore this book. If, like me, you prefer cactus to cats, you still will love this. If you’re opposed to viewing dolphins as foul-mouthed cheeky bastards - well, then Scalzi’s humor may take a bit of getting used to.
“Williams shook his head. “Oh, no, Charlie. Don’t swim with the dolphins during a labor dispute. No matter how much they try to convince you otherwise.”
It’s funny, it’s adorable, it’s lightheartedly comfortable with an occasional infusion of semi-adolescent humor into snappy banter, and it just works very well. This is a book that doesn’t take itself too seriously and owns that.
But then Scalzi still doesn’t forget that while billionaires have their allure, they typically haven’t become those just using merit and kindness. It’s a dickhead spectrum, and Scalzi lets you know where he stands.
“I expected the members of Earth’s leading society of villains to be smarter,” I said.
“I don’t know why.”
“They’re smarter in movies and books.”
“They would have to be, wouldn’t they?” Morrison said. “In the real world, they can be what people like them usually are: a bunch of dudes born into money who used that money to take advantage of other people to make even more money. It works great until they start believing that being rich makes them smart, and then they get in trouble. Unless they find someone else to take advantage of.”
Plus, it mentions umlauts. And sharks. And one can’t go wrong with those.
4.5 stars.
“Still, death by shark is great on the resume,” Jacobs said.”
——————
Also posted on my blog.
June 25, 2024
‘Don’t swim with the dolphins during a labor dispute. No matter how much they try to convince you otherwise.’
John Scalzi’s "Starter Villain" is a delightful romp that flips the traditional villain narrative on its head. The novel introduces us to Charlie, an ordinary guy who unexpectedly inherits his Uncle's Supervillain empire. What follows is a hilarious and action packed adventure as Charlie navigates a world filled with cat spies, nefarious plots, and a surprising amount of corporate bureaucracy.
Scalzi's writing is sharp and engaging, making it easy to root for Charlie even as he grapples with morally ambiguous decisions. The humor is spot on, balancing the absurdity of the premise with genuine character development and clever dialogue. The book is a refreshing blend of satire and sci-fi, with plenty of laugh out loud moments.
A delightful read that doesn't take itself too seriously but still manages to explore themes of power, responsibility, and what it means to be truly good or evil. The pacing is brisk, and the plot twists keep you hooked from start to finish.
Numerous people told me I would love this book (because, cats!) and they weren’t wrong. So thank you to those who recommended this one to me.
If you're looking for a fun, smart read that doesn't take itself too seriously, "Starter Villain" is the perfect pick.
My Highest Recommendation!
John Scalzi’s "Starter Villain" is a delightful romp that flips the traditional villain narrative on its head. The novel introduces us to Charlie, an ordinary guy who unexpectedly inherits his Uncle's Supervillain empire. What follows is a hilarious and action packed adventure as Charlie navigates a world filled with cat spies, nefarious plots, and a surprising amount of corporate bureaucracy.
Scalzi's writing is sharp and engaging, making it easy to root for Charlie even as he grapples with morally ambiguous decisions. The humor is spot on, balancing the absurdity of the premise with genuine character development and clever dialogue. The book is a refreshing blend of satire and sci-fi, with plenty of laugh out loud moments.
A delightful read that doesn't take itself too seriously but still manages to explore themes of power, responsibility, and what it means to be truly good or evil. The pacing is brisk, and the plot twists keep you hooked from start to finish.
Numerous people told me I would love this book (because, cats!) and they weren’t wrong. So thank you to those who recommended this one to me.
If you're looking for a fun, smart read that doesn't take itself too seriously, "Starter Villain" is the perfect pick.
My Highest Recommendation!
September 5, 2023
Witty, quirky, and so darn amusing. The book had me at “hyper-intelligent talking spy cats.” I would very much like to slow-blink at this novel and give it a treat.
Imagine your absentee trillionaire villain uncle dies and leaves you the, no, not the breadth of his inheritance, but the onus to take his place to protect the assets of the company’s multimillion dollar clients and to defend his fortune against a conglomerate of other villainous villains. It, of course, is not as simple as that. There also are technologically inept volcanic lairs, clone technology, intelligent and articulate cats, bombings, jerk dolphins, and the impending and on-going assassination attempts on Charlie.
Charlie has a lot to learn. Chuck Bartowski, without the Intersect, meets Gru in this satirical novel.
- Sara W.
Imagine your absentee trillionaire villain uncle dies and leaves you the, no, not the breadth of his inheritance, but the onus to take his place to protect the assets of the company’s multimillion dollar clients and to defend his fortune against a conglomerate of other villainous villains. It, of course, is not as simple as that. There also are technologically inept volcanic lairs, clone technology, intelligent and articulate cats, bombings, jerk dolphins, and the impending and on-going assassination attempts on Charlie.
Charlie has a lot to learn. Chuck Bartowski, without the Intersect, meets Gru in this satirical novel.
- Sara W.
September 19, 2023
Available today, 9.19.23!
STARTER VILLAIN is just plain fun!
It featured an unlikely protagonist who just wanted to buy a bar, (even though he has no money), get out of the house his half siblings co-own, and just generally get out from under. Then a rich uncle dies and leaves him his supervillain business. And then he discovers his cat is his boss. From there on out we are taken on an hilarious ride, none of which I will spoil for you here.
With his sense of humor clearly sharpened and a sense of whimsy that is totally delightful, John Scalzi presents a tale of pure escapism and I loved it. Maybe you will too? (Especially if you love cats!)
Highly recommended!
*Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Tor for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it!
STARTER VILLAIN is just plain fun!
It featured an unlikely protagonist who just wanted to buy a bar, (even though he has no money), get out of the house his half siblings co-own, and just generally get out from under. Then a rich uncle dies and leaves him his supervillain business. And then he discovers his cat is his boss. From there on out we are taken on an hilarious ride, none of which I will spoil for you here.
With his sense of humor clearly sharpened and a sense of whimsy that is totally delightful, John Scalzi presents a tale of pure escapism and I loved it. Maybe you will too? (Especially if you love cats!)
Highly recommended!
*Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Tor for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it!
October 30, 2023
This was so much fun.
September 24, 2023
Now THIS is what I call wholesome!
Charlie has recently lost his dad. A dad who had had a family before marrying Charlie's mother (who is also deceased). Charlie has three older half-siblings therefore and they are NOT his biggest fans (on account of his dad having seemingly cared more for him than them and having left their mom for Charlie's). So after Charlie's dad has died, there is a dispute about the house he left to all of them. It doesn't help that Charlie is unemployed except for occasionally being a substitute teacher (he had to drop everything to take care of his dad when he got sick) while his half-siblings are all more than well off.
One day, Charlie gets approached by a woman who had worked for Charlie's maternal uncle. He also died recently. She promises him a way out of his insecure life if he agrees to hold his uncle's service.
What Charlie couldn't have imagined is that people would try to stab his uncle just to make sure he was actually dead. *lol*
Another thing he couldn't have imagined is the conspiracy his uncle was embroiled in, the island with the secret research labs, the various super-weapons under his uncle's (and now Charlie's) command ... and the cats. Because THESE cats are not your usual fluffballs. Just like the dolphins in Charlie's island's bay. *chuckles*
So yes, to make this short: this is about super-villains and a super-organisation they all belong to (mutually assured destruction). It's about how Charlie will handle his inheritance. But first and foremost, it's about belonging, what "home" means, and the awesomeness that are animals.
Seriously, this is one of Scalzi's finest. No sprawling series, not the biggest stakes, but all the more heart.
I cackled through many a conversation in this book and definitely loved the situational humor with the union-forming dolphins or Hera and Persephone in general (they were awesome no matter what they did).
Admittedly, this was not what I had expected - I did not expect the story to be so heart-warming - but that only means I'm even more smitten with it now. Wholesome really is the best word to describe it.
Charlie has recently lost his dad. A dad who had had a family before marrying Charlie's mother (who is also deceased). Charlie has three older half-siblings therefore and they are NOT his biggest fans (on account of his dad having seemingly cared more for him than them and having left their mom for Charlie's). So after Charlie's dad has died, there is a dispute about the house he left to all of them. It doesn't help that Charlie is unemployed except for occasionally being a substitute teacher (he had to drop everything to take care of his dad when he got sick) while his half-siblings are all more than well off.
One day, Charlie gets approached by a woman who had worked for Charlie's maternal uncle. He also died recently. She promises him a way out of his insecure life if he agrees to hold his uncle's service.
What Charlie couldn't have imagined is that people would try to stab his uncle just to make sure he was actually dead. *lol*
Another thing he couldn't have imagined is the conspiracy his uncle was embroiled in, the island with the secret research labs, the various super-weapons under his uncle's (and now Charlie's) command ... and the cats. Because THESE cats are not your usual fluffballs. Just like the dolphins in Charlie's island's bay. *chuckles*
So yes, to make this short: this is about super-villains and a super-organisation they all belong to (mutually assured destruction). It's about how Charlie will handle his inheritance. But first and foremost, it's about belonging, what "home" means, and the awesomeness that are animals.
Seriously, this is one of Scalzi's finest. No sprawling series, not the biggest stakes, but all the more heart.
I cackled through many a conversation in this book and definitely loved the situational humor with the union-forming dolphins or Hera and Persephone in general (they were awesome no matter what they did).
Admittedly, this was not what I had expected - I did not expect the story to be so heart-warming - but that only means I'm even more smitten with it now. Wholesome really is the best word to describe it.
Read
May 9, 2024Scalzi's latest is a light-hearted story with a likeable fish-out-of-water protagonist and a lot of very smart cats. There's also a dolphin labor dispute, some truly awful techbros ("consider your testicles"), and a volcano island lair, among other things. Some laugh out loud lines and a few double-double twists make this a fun read. Scalzi also has a bit to say about the state of who's running the world and what makes someone villainous and not so villainous. Easy to read in a day, and with that cover, who could resist?
I received a free ARC which in no way impacted my honest review.
I received a free ARC which in no way impacted my honest review.
October 24, 2023
4 stars
My second Scalzi book so far, and it has been the best of times. The Kaiju Preservation Society was among my favourite reads from last year, which meant I had very high expectations for this. Still kinda sad it didn't win the Hugo :( I loved the humor, and the banter. His main characters are always likeable and fun to read. There was so much going on in this book and it was a pure shot of serotonin. Plus that cover, and the upper management cats and the dolphin labor union and the evil volcano lair. All very absurd but in the best possible way. This book had me laughing and giggling at 3 a.m. and still begging for more. Definitely here for whatever this dude writes. Maybe a full proper review later on.
My second Scalzi book so far, and it has been the best of times. The Kaiju Preservation Society was among my favourite reads from last year, which meant I had very high expectations for this. Still kinda sad it didn't win the Hugo :( I loved the humor, and the banter. His main characters are always likeable and fun to read. There was so much going on in this book and it was a pure shot of serotonin. Plus that cover, and the upper management cats and the dolphin labor union and the evil volcano lair. All very absurd but in the best possible way. This book had me laughing and giggling at 3 a.m. and still begging for more. Definitely here for whatever this dude writes. Maybe a full proper review later on.
October 25, 2025
I knew it is going to be top tier when the gifted flower vase for the funeral memorial service had "s*k it m*f*r" on it. Additionally, it should be no surprise that cats will work for the villains.
November 17, 2024
3,75/5
July 13, 2024
What a dumb and funny book!
How this is so popular, I will never understand.
But the sense of humour was good (in the beginning) and it reminds me of superhero movies (or in this case super villain) and also Charlie gives me Gru vibes (from Despicsble Me).
It's like a children story written for adults.
P.s. Dolphins were the best. Them dirty mouth creatures!☺️
How this is so popular, I will never understand.
But the sense of humour was good (in the beginning) and it reminds me of superhero movies (or in this case super villain) and also Charlie gives me Gru vibes (from Despicsble Me).
It's like a children story written for adults.
P.s. Dolphins were the best. Them dirty mouth creatures!☺️
June 17, 2025
"You know you're rude, right? Or does it just sneak up on you?"
I came for the cover art; I stayed for the silliness. You can tell Scalzi had a blast writing this book despite struggling with COVID during the process. But seriously, how can you go wrong with a fun tale about talking cats and inheriting a supervillain empire? Fast-paced, amusing, and packed with satirical elements, Starter Villain delivered as my first Scalzi read.
I came for the cover art; I stayed for the silliness. You can tell Scalzi had a blast writing this book despite struggling with COVID during the process. But seriously, how can you go wrong with a fun tale about talking cats and inheriting a supervillain empire? Fast-paced, amusing, and packed with satirical elements, Starter Villain delivered as my first Scalzi read.
March 29, 2025
I had high hopes for this book, especially with its intriguing premise featuring spy cats and swearing dolphins—it seemed like the perfect recipe for a thrilling adventure. Unfortunately, I found myself deeply disappointed.
The narrative began at a glacial pace and, frustratingly, never picked up speed. It was so tedious that there were moments I nearly drifted off to sleep. Not even the allure of clever spy cats or the outrageous charm of foul-mouthed dolphins could rescue this story from its lethargy.
Moreover, the humor fell flat. I anticipated a delightful romp with more feline antics, yet instead was bombarded with tiresome political discussions about powerful figures being puppeteered by the so-called “villains.” Their self-identification as "villains" came off as painfully cringeworthy, as they lacked the true malice or complexity associated with such roles.
The notion of characterizing these influential figures as "villains" presents an intriguing premise; however, the execution ultimately does not meet expectations.
Once again, I craved more CATS—vibrant, mischievous, and captivating—while wishing for far fewer of the dull and irritating side characters that cluttered the plot.
The cats undeniably deserve two stars for their charm and character, while the dolphins merit one star for being so funny.
The narrative began at a glacial pace and, frustratingly, never picked up speed. It was so tedious that there were moments I nearly drifted off to sleep. Not even the allure of clever spy cats or the outrageous charm of foul-mouthed dolphins could rescue this story from its lethargy.
Moreover, the humor fell flat. I anticipated a delightful romp with more feline antics, yet instead was bombarded with tiresome political discussions about powerful figures being puppeteered by the so-called “villains.” Their self-identification as "villains" came off as painfully cringeworthy, as they lacked the true malice or complexity associated with such roles.
The notion of characterizing these influential figures as "villains" presents an intriguing premise; however, the execution ultimately does not meet expectations.
Once again, I craved more CATS—vibrant, mischievous, and captivating—while wishing for far fewer of the dull and irritating side characters that cluttered the plot.
The cats undeniably deserve two stars for their charm and character, while the dolphins merit one star for being so funny.
February 21, 2025
John Scalzi has his formula of quirky main characters, evil corporations and light Sci-Fi and it works every time.
This one is no exception.
Like with his other works, it's fun, entertaining and easy.
I had a great time.
This one is no exception.
Like with his other works, it's fun, entertaining and easy.
I had a great time.
September 18, 2023
Charlie is shocked to discover that his estranged uncle's passing has involved him in a shadowy world of billionaires, evil-doers, and satellite exploding lasers.
Suddenly he's the owner of a top secret lair (under a volcano, naturally), though the "sinister mission control room" is somewhat lacking. And now some people are pressuring him to join the Lombardy Convocation, a group of super villainous villains who just happen to be having their annual meeting.
"Think of Davos, except they don't pretend they're helping people."
I assume the above info was enough to get your attention, but if you need more tidbits to lure you in, I'll also mention the spy cats, and the disgruntled dolphins.
This was pure (well, not really PURE) fun from start to finish; a quirky, hilarious romp that should keep you chuckling.
And, if your cat is staring at you right now, you should probably be a little nervous . . .
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Books for the loan.
Suddenly he's the owner of a top secret lair (under a volcano, naturally), though the "sinister mission control room" is somewhat lacking. And now some people are pressuring him to join the Lombardy Convocation, a group of super villainous villains who just happen to be having their annual meeting.
"Think of Davos, except they don't pretend they're helping people."
I assume the above info was enough to get your attention, but if you need more tidbits to lure you in, I'll also mention the spy cats, and the disgruntled dolphins.
This was pure (well, not really PURE) fun from start to finish; a quirky, hilarious romp that should keep you chuckling.
And, if your cat is staring at you right now, you should probably be a little nervous . . .
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tor Books for the loan.
October 10, 2025
If you would’ve asked me yesterday, if I would have enjoyed a novel with cat spies and talking dolphins, I would have said no way not my ideal read. Apparently it is. Now I need to be sure to purchase one of those mats that my cat can press the buttons on to see if maybe we can put words to those cute little noises she makes. Or she’ll probably just ignore it and give me the side eye.
Back to the novel… Charlie is recently divorced and barely hanging on financially living in his childhood home. One day he is contacted about his recently deceased uncle. Apparently he was worth a boatload of money, and there are only a few things Charlie needs to do in order to be financially set for a bit. What he did not anticipate was that his Uncle Jake was a super villain. Charlie finds himself in a world he never could have imagined. Think James Bond but more laid-back and with the aforementioned dolphins and cats.
What can I say, I enjoyed this book. It was a fun mindless read. I thought it would end up being more cartoony than what it was, which was great it wasn’t. I also didn’t find it as OTT as I thought I would which makes no sense, considering again the cats and dolphins. 🤷🏻♀️
Definitely would recommend this one! And seriously, how can you not read this novel with that awesome very regal kitty cat on the cover?
Now I need to check out what other kind of novels this author has written.
Back to the novel… Charlie is recently divorced and barely hanging on financially living in his childhood home. One day he is contacted about his recently deceased uncle. Apparently he was worth a boatload of money, and there are only a few things Charlie needs to do in order to be financially set for a bit. What he did not anticipate was that his Uncle Jake was a super villain. Charlie finds himself in a world he never could have imagined. Think James Bond but more laid-back and with the aforementioned dolphins and cats.
What can I say, I enjoyed this book. It was a fun mindless read. I thought it would end up being more cartoony than what it was, which was great it wasn’t. I also didn’t find it as OTT as I thought I would which makes no sense, considering again the cats and dolphins. 🤷🏻♀️
Definitely would recommend this one! And seriously, how can you not read this novel with that awesome very regal kitty cat on the cover?
Now I need to check out what other kind of novels this author has written.
November 9, 2023
Light snarky funny fantasy, a take on Bond-like villains (via subscription fees) with cats. It is as chewable, easy to consume as you can imagine with some scenes and ideas which are just priceless.
It is also thin on characterization and plot, and while it is oh so snarky in scenes, it somehow stops from being revolutionary transgressive satire. It goes for the easy, whenever it can. There is no obvious joke which is not vocalized (and that is not a bad thing necessarily) but it always goes for the "nice", critical but not too much. Is it fair to hold it against a book that it could have been more and it just did not have try? Because indulging in lots of jokes does not necessarily prevent books from expressing more things, rage, or cynical detachment, or being a bit more somehow in character development. This, and I realize how hollow it sounds, does not attempt to be more, get out of its comfort zone and I am holding it against the book, could have been more, but saw no point in attempting it. (Is it fair to mentally compare books to Terry Pratchett ones? But if it is not fair, I can not stop doing it when clicking on that star rating).
Fantastic for cat lovers (incidentally I mind that the cover is wrong. Hey Hera and Persephone are orange-and-white!) Interesting dolphins also.
I listened to the audiobook, read (I am not going to say voice acted) by Wil Wheaton and I hated his narration and I am going to hold it against the book, so my rating (3.5ish) is brought down over it. I knew he is a polemic narrator, I thought that was just an internet meme thing (ah!), I wanted to try one of his books for myself. So I did, and I am not doing any more audiobooks by him ever again. Because I might spoiler with examples I will put it in spoilers, the stuff I did not like with his reading (I am not going to actually call that voice acting..):
So TLDR: Wil Wheaton as a narrator, not ever again for me. Mileage will vary, he has lots of fans and I am often way out there on outlier island so judge for yourself, as always.
Cute fun, bubbly snarky story. Cat lovers might specially like it.
It is also thin on characterization and plot, and while it is oh so snarky in scenes, it somehow stops from being revolutionary transgressive satire. It goes for the easy, whenever it can. There is no obvious joke which is not vocalized (and that is not a bad thing necessarily) but it always goes for the "nice", critical but not too much. Is it fair to hold it against a book that it could have been more and it just did not have try? Because indulging in lots of jokes does not necessarily prevent books from expressing more things, rage, or cynical detachment, or being a bit more somehow in character development. This, and I realize how hollow it sounds, does not attempt to be more, get out of its comfort zone and I am holding it against the book, could have been more, but saw no point in attempting it. (Is it fair to mentally compare books to Terry Pratchett ones? But if it is not fair, I can not stop doing it when clicking on that star rating).
Fantastic for cat lovers (incidentally I mind that the cover is wrong. Hey Hera and Persephone are orange-and-white!) Interesting dolphins also.
I listened to the audiobook, read (I am not going to say voice acted) by Wil Wheaton and I hated his narration and I am going to hold it against the book, so my rating (3.5ish) is brought down over it. I knew he is a polemic narrator, I thought that was just an internet meme thing (ah!), I wanted to try one of his books for myself. So I did, and I am not doing any more audiobooks by him ever again. Because I might spoiler with examples I will put it in spoilers, the stuff I did not like with his reading (I am not going to actually call that voice acting..):
So TLDR: Wil Wheaton as a narrator, not ever again for me. Mileage will vary, he has lots of fans and I am often way out there on outlier island so judge for yourself, as always.
Cute fun, bubbly snarky story. Cat lovers might specially like it.
August 17, 2023
This is probably the funniest thing a read in a while. If Starter Villain was a movie, it would be a delightful action comedy, with witty dialogues and unpretentious humour. In fantasy books I usually read, good jokes are rare (and most authors can’t write them at all), but here pages are literally oozing with puns, funny banter and remarks. This is the first Scalzi’s book that I’ve read, but of this I’m certain: this guy knows how to write entertaining dialogues. What is more behind all this comedy author hid some serious questions and satire on our world. For example: how should we treat animals if humans turn them into intelligent spieces? And what if (and this one is my favourite) some of them decide to form a union? If you liked Glass Onion metacommentary and mocking of Silicon Valley techbros, whose only contribution to the world is their enormous ego and family money, you’re gonna have lots of fun with this book.
December 9, 2023
So, part of the reason why I picked this one up was one, the book cover (I mean, look at it!!) and two, not having read a book by John Scalzi yet.
I loved this one.
It’s the perfect mixture of an interesting plot, humor, and some exciting action at the end.
I enjoyed the plot twists and loved how the book keeps evolving and changing as our main character, Charlie, tries to figure out his uncle’s business, the role of being a villain, and trying to survive his rivals.
Starter Villain begins with Charlie somehow inheriting his uncle’s business when he dies. He thought his Uncle Jake was in the parking lot business but it was much more complicated then he expected.
Not only does he own parking lots all over the United States but he has an island with an active volcano, lots of side businesses that keep governments spying on each other, and a henchwoman that can kill when the situation is called for.
Oh yeah, he’s got some cats too.
Spy cats that keep him informed of what his competitors and rivals are up too.
This whole concept might sound strange and weird but Scalzi has a way of taking the unbelievable fantasy/sci-fi element and making it legit and believable. I loved that the most about the book.
Pick this up if you are looking for a funny and original sci-fi book that will keep you massively entertained and chuckling while flipping the pages.
It definitely worked for me!
I loved this one.
It’s the perfect mixture of an interesting plot, humor, and some exciting action at the end.
I enjoyed the plot twists and loved how the book keeps evolving and changing as our main character, Charlie, tries to figure out his uncle’s business, the role of being a villain, and trying to survive his rivals.
Starter Villain begins with Charlie somehow inheriting his uncle’s business when he dies. He thought his Uncle Jake was in the parking lot business but it was much more complicated then he expected.
Not only does he own parking lots all over the United States but he has an island with an active volcano, lots of side businesses that keep governments spying on each other, and a henchwoman that can kill when the situation is called for.
Oh yeah, he’s got some cats too.
Spy cats that keep him informed of what his competitors and rivals are up too.
This whole concept might sound strange and weird but Scalzi has a way of taking the unbelievable fantasy/sci-fi element and making it legit and believable. I loved that the most about the book.
Pick this up if you are looking for a funny and original sci-fi book that will keep you massively entertained and chuckling while flipping the pages.
It definitely worked for me!
January 26, 2024
When a kitten walks up to you and makes demands, what are you going to do? Say no?
Look at that cover. Just look at it. From the very first moment, I knew this book was gonna be fucking awesome.
“Apparently they’re ready,” she said to me. “Encrypted this time.” Gratas was on the screen immediately, screaming. There was a little lock icon on the screen.
“Your audio’s still muted,” I said, mildly.
I laughed out loud so many times, but the Zoom call scene just completely slayed me 😂
”It’s not all maniacal laughter and plots to take over the world with a giant laser,” I said.
Yang looked over at Morrison again.
“Wait, is there a plot to take over the world with a giant laser?” I asked.
Can we pleaseeee get a movie?? 🙏🏻
- -
Aug 2023: BUSINESS CAT?? I’M IN
Look at that cover. Just look at it. From the very first moment, I knew this book was gonna be fucking awesome.
“Apparently they’re ready,” she said to me. “Encrypted this time.” Gratas was on the screen immediately, screaming. There was a little lock icon on the screen.
“Your audio’s still muted,” I said, mildly.
I laughed out loud so many times, but the Zoom call scene just completely slayed me 😂
”It’s not all maniacal laughter and plots to take over the world with a giant laser,” I said.
Yang looked over at Morrison again.
“Wait, is there a plot to take over the world with a giant laser?” I asked.
Can we pleaseeee get a movie?? 🙏🏻
- -
Aug 2023: BUSINESS CAT?? I’M IN
October 7, 2023
Reading this book is like how I imagine taking an intro to finance course with a bunch of dude bros would be
March 23, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up. The audiobook narrator was great too!
What a fun little book! This had few scenes that actually made me cackle...AUDIBLY.😅
A man financially down on his luck discovers he inherited his dead uncle's villain business and now he is up against all the other villains in the "organization". With the help of his hyperintelligent spy cats and the angry ununionized foul-mouthed dolphins, he has to navigate this new reality that's not as glamourous as Hollywood movies make it out to be.
This was a quirky and fun book with kind of a heartwarming feel to it. It had some dull moments here and there, but it's a great book to read after reading something heavy or dark. The ending was a little bit rushed for me, but was still a very full circle-esque satisfying ending.
_____________________________________________
pre-read 🎧
"In a dog eat dog world, be a cat."
I'm already so sold, but also that cover? How am I expected NOT to read this?
What a fun little book! This had few scenes that actually made me cackle...AUDIBLY.😅
A man financially down on his luck discovers he inherited his dead uncle's villain business and now he is up against all the other villains in the "organization". With the help of his hyperintelligent spy cats and the angry ununionized foul-mouthed dolphins, he has to navigate this new reality that's not as glamourous as Hollywood movies make it out to be.
This was a quirky and fun book with kind of a heartwarming feel to it. It had some dull moments here and there, but it's a great book to read after reading something heavy or dark. The ending was a little bit rushed for me, but was still a very full circle-esque satisfying ending.
_____________________________________________
pre-read 🎧
"In a dog eat dog world, be a cat."
I'm already so sold, but also that cover? How am I expected NOT to read this?
January 16, 2025
3,75
Gadające delfiny, inteligentne koty i złoczyńcy? Yeeeees
Bardzo dobrze się bawiłam, chociaż zakończenie mogłoby być trochę inne
Gadające delfiny, inteligentne koty i złoczyńcy? Yeeeees
Bardzo dobrze się bawiłam, chociaż zakończenie mogłoby być trochę inne
October 3, 2025
Villains, at least for the purposes of this particular human resources presentation, were not bad people, and not evil people. What they were, were professional disrupters: the people who looked at systems and processes; found the weak spots, loopholes and unintended consequences of each of them; and then exploited them, either for their own advantage or the advantage of their client base.
Fitzer, having inherited a secret villainy empire along with a parking garage business from his uncle, is thrust into the high stakes game of disruption with typing cats and striking dolphins against his colleagues/ competitors/ enemies as the new Starter Villain. An erstwhile business reporter with dreams of buying a pub, Fitzer still manages to keep his head above water and call bs whenever the game gets too ridiculous.
Underneath the quirky world-building that is just this side of laugh-out-loud, John Scalzi's brand of humour conveys the satire of financial practices the one percenters use. The plot moves very quickly, but the absurd situations and the humour keep it on the whole a light read! While the premise is outrageously fun, Fitzer's arc is grounded between Zoom calls and quickly realizing one can't just spend trillions of black money. And this grounded nature of his manages to drive the plot amidst convoluted plans by villains with decades of experience and a lifetime of rich guy attitudes (not at the same time).
Recommended for anyone looking to try out John Scalzi's work with a fun read!
🌟🌟🌟3/4🌟
[3/4 star for the premise; 3/4 star for the characters; 3/4 star for the plot; 3/4 star for the world-building; 3/4 star for the writing - 3 3/4 stars in total.]
Fitzer, having inherited a secret villainy empire along with a parking garage business from his uncle, is thrust into the high stakes game of disruption with typing cats and striking dolphins against his colleagues/ competitors/ enemies as the new Starter Villain. An erstwhile business reporter with dreams of buying a pub, Fitzer still manages to keep his head above water and call bs whenever the game gets too ridiculous.
Underneath the quirky world-building that is just this side of laugh-out-loud, John Scalzi's brand of humour conveys the satire of financial practices the one percenters use. The plot moves very quickly, but the absurd situations and the humour keep it on the whole a light read! While the premise is outrageously fun, Fitzer's arc is grounded between Zoom calls and quickly realizing one can't just spend trillions of black money. And this grounded nature of his manages to drive the plot amidst convoluted plans by villains with decades of experience and a lifetime of rich guy attitudes (not at the same time).
Recommended for anyone looking to try out John Scalzi's work with a fun read!
🌟🌟🌟3/4🌟
[3/4 star for the premise; 3/4 star for the characters; 3/4 star for the plot; 3/4 star for the world-building; 3/4 star for the writing - 3 3/4 stars in total.]
September 26, 2023
This book started great. I read the first 40% in one sitting. The sense of mystery was really intriguing as set up.
But once we get to the main plot...I just found the joke to be played out. This book ends up being a big nothing burger. There are some bits I liked the whole way through - like the dolphins, which are a delight. But I absolutely, completely, hated the last 15-20% and it retroactively made me dislike a lot of the rest of it too. Not a great first try for Scalzi.
But once we get to the main plot...I just found the joke to be played out. This book ends up being a big nothing burger. There are some bits I liked the whole way through - like the dolphins, which are a delight. But I absolutely, completely, hated the last 15-20% and it retroactively made me dislike a lot of the rest of it too. Not a great first try for Scalzi.
October 7, 2023
Starter Villain is another wild and wacky comedic romp from Scalzi, following nicely in the wake of Redshirts and The Kaiju Preservation Society. It's about a very non-villainous and non-heroic guy who inherits a criminal empire that was set up in the James Bond tradition. I'll avoid spoilers, but here's a quote from page 207: "...I'm here on an island in the Caribbean, being told I need to talk to the dolphins in the middle of a labor action about some whales that might have torpedoes, armed by a secret society of villains who want access to a storeroom full of objects probably looted from the victims of the friggin' Nazis and who are maybe willing to blow up -my volcano lair- to get it." It's a fun, fast read, and anyone likely to pick up a Scalzi probably already realizes that cats are in charge, taped bacon notwithstanding. It's fast, fun stuff, not likely to offend anyone other than maybe friggin' Nazis. (As lots and lots and lots of other people have commented, the cover is cute and striking, but I thought it was sort of misleading. The feline characters in the book didn't wear clothes and were female...)
December 20, 2024
I didn’t know a pod of union-demanding, sentient dolphins screaming “fucknugget” or “fingerfuck fingerfuck” at their new boss and super spy cats who speak and own real estate was on my 2024 bingo card, but here we are.
🤷🏻♀️🐈🐬
This had hitchhikers guide to the galaxy humour, it was very dry and bland, tongue in cheek kind of entertainment, and I loved it!!!!
Admittedly, in the middle of this book it became slightly boring, but it all ramped back up and the story wrapped itself up nicely with a little bow on top ✨
For a non-mm, non-romance based book I had alot of fun.
The dolphins absolutely cracked me up every time they were involved, and Charlie was just such a push around MC who had been down on his luck for so long, that knowing he got his HEA after his inherited stint of being a super villain was a very nice way to end this hehehe🐬💖✨
🤷🏻♀️🐈🐬
This had hitchhikers guide to the galaxy humour, it was very dry and bland, tongue in cheek kind of entertainment, and I loved it!!!!
Admittedly, in the middle of this book it became slightly boring, but it all ramped back up and the story wrapped itself up nicely with a little bow on top ✨
For a non-mm, non-romance based book I had alot of fun.
The dolphins absolutely cracked me up every time they were involved, and Charlie was just such a push around MC who had been down on his luck for so long, that knowing he got his HEA after his inherited stint of being a super villain was a very nice way to end this hehehe🐬💖✨
May 12, 2024
i don’t know if it’s because it was written so well or what but this felt exactly like a movie.. a strange on, yes but a very enjoyable strange movie
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