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Vexing Villains #3

A Rogue in Sight

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Asmodeus (Deus)

Some call me a villain.
Some call me a hero.
But I really just want Ellison to call me a sexy beast.

It all starts when I’m tasked with keeping my new BFFs alive on a camping trip. Easy, right?

Wrong.

One thing leads to another, and suddenly, there’s a target on Ellison’s head. The problem is that I’ve never been incapable of finding my mark before. How exactly do you find someone who you can’t see? You can’t hear? A person you can’t find until they’re right there?

But I will find them because they’ve never met someone like me.

Don’t worry, keeping my friends safe and saving inconsequential humans (mostly by accident) comes at a small price (maybe around $62 332,69 if I decide to charge for having to hear Landon rave about books).

But getting prim and proper Ellison to fall in love with me?

Priceless.

Ellison

As someone who has always worked from the sidelines, I’m reluctantly drawn out into the spotlight alongside Asmodeus after being attacked. Asmodeus is determined to keep me safe, but at what cost?

I’ve done everything alone for my entire life, but why is it that I can’t look away from him (even when he’s shooting the world’s(?) largest ball of yarn)? Asmodeus sees past my aloof persona and makes me willing to take some risks and break some rules.

But I’m terrified that all of this is going to destroy the happiness he’s brought me.

And I need to fight, not only for myself but for our future together.

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2025

92 people are currently reading
133 people want to read

About the author

Alice Winters

62 books2,750 followers
Alice Winters started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to turn her ideas into written words. She loves writing a variety of things from romance and comedy to action. She also enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her pets.

Follow me on Facebook where I put up short stories, teasers, and giveaways: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Alice...

Join my newsletter: https://www.alicewintersauthor.com/

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5 stars
311 (66%)
4 stars
113 (24%)
3 stars
40 (8%)
2 stars
1 (<1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Dani.
1,705 reviews333 followers
January 31, 2026
I did like coming back to this group of characters, Deus especially, but the plot felt a bit all over the place and although there were some funny moments it just wasn't keeping my attention.

The humour was typical Alice Winters which is entertaining, but the balance between humour and seriousness was off and it was like the book didn't quite know what it was trying to be.

Really liked seeing Nolan again and I hope there's going to be a book for him and Lex.

Pocket Lint was really cute though and made a great duo with Deus.

I also really liked Aspen and the sharing scenes with Ellison and Deus were different to what I've read before but also really fun.
Profile Image for Bee.
1,110 reviews223 followers
November 14, 2025
Well, it's another Alice Winters book. They feel pretty "paint-by-numbers" at this point, but for some reason it's always enjoyable for me, as long as I don't read too many in a row. So yeah, enjoyed this one.
Profile Image for Molly Otto.
1,496 reviews32 followers
November 11, 2025
Bloody hell get ready for some twists and turns that you are not ready for. We get to see how Ellison and Deus find common ground in the maybe not safest way. When someone is out to get Ellison, Deus takes it upon himself to protect him. Ellison slowly let's Deus see what's under the suit. Theses two have a chemistry that just works for them. They allow each other to be happy and find a safe place with this band of misfits.
Our 'helpful' group is back to save the day, even if we're being honest they cause more trouble than helping but hey if it works it works. What a fun ride, it was nice to see Landon & August from others pov, as well as the others of the crew. Now let's hope a certain telepath and fire starter get to have their HEA as well cause we know that will be a ride to remember.
Profile Image for Dan.
1,745 reviews49 followers
December 11, 2025
Gold star, really really liked it. I am glad we got Deus and Ellison's story, it very much did not disappoint. And it gives me hope that we may get Lex and Nolan someday too
Profile Image for Mir.
1,134 reviews66 followers
January 3, 2026
Classic Alice Winters. Hilarious and lovable characters, with a fun and hot twist…honestly I just really enjoyed this and am glad I can still get through a book that isn’t Heated Rivalry. I’m so glad I saved this for the new year.
Profile Image for Ally.
325 reviews5 followers
November 8, 2025
Deus and Ellis!

There are so many layers to both characters we finally get to see! I'm hoping the glimpses into Deus' past mean we will get another book and a possible side character to keep this series going!!! I don't know what I want more: the next book to be for Nolan (my fave) or a second book for Deus to dive into his past! Could Henrik be a hero worthy of his own book?? Either way, I can't wait to see what Alice gives us next!
Profile Image for Vicki.
1,145 reviews26 followers
December 17, 2025
What a ride this is!

Someone is out to cause mischief for our favourite suit wearing Ellison so Deus decides he shall keep him safe, even if Ellison doesn’t feel he needs protection. Over the course of their very twisted journey together we really get to see how these two men, with very similar traumatic backgrounds, learn to rely on and eventually trust each other. They also have Landon, August and company to add to the mayhem that ensues as the villain does villain things and the superheroes manage to stumble their way through. Yes, Landon always has a book at hand, August is as agreeable as ever, Deus uses a lot of wordage as distraction and Ellison finally wears something other than a suit. There’s a delightfully named new pet, lots of invoices from Deus and a hard earned HEA that warmed my heart.. I laughed a lot at the shenanigans but was also heat-sore after learning all that these two wonderful men had been through to get where they wanted to be - to have love and happiness, a found family and each other.

“You didn’t leave my side when I needed you, so I’m not going to leave yours.”
1,020 reviews42 followers
December 27, 2025
Cute, quick read set in the Vexing Villains universe. They are as insane as wacky as ever. I loved getting to see more into Ellison and Asmodeus's minds. Chaotic and rambling as they are. I love how the author always has multiple chaotic characters. They are so much larger than life and that makes them so fun to read about, I wish I could be Landon and just read all day. I loved Asmodeus and his demons. Ellison and his illusions ended up being pretty hot as well.
76 reviews4 followers
November 7, 2025
Another Alice Winters masterpiece. This one has the classic craziness and humor as the rest of the series with some extra twists and turns. I love how much this group of heroes makes me laugh and admire their found family.

Read this whole series, its totally worth it.
Profile Image for Cadiva.
4,012 reviews445 followers
December 24, 2025
Total mayhem!

For half the book I really wasn't sure just what on earth was going on but it didn't stop me from loving the hell out of this story.

I've really enjoyed this series of villains and their antics and I hope we get Lex and Nolan's story next!
Profile Image for anna.
1,064 reviews12 followers
November 27, 2025
This book felt heavier than the previous two.

I really liked Deus, but I wasn’t fond of Ellison. Deus deserved someone more like August — someone whose energy matched his. I just couldn’t sympathize with Ellison, especially with the way he tried to handle everything on his own. His thought process often frustrated me.

The twist with Ellison’s illusions was interesting and definitely the most unique part of his character. Without that, he didn’t feel particularly special.
Profile Image for Kristel (hungryandhappy).
1,894 reviews92 followers
January 24, 2026
I love Asmodeus with all my heart and I now need a million books with him as the MC. He is so chaotic, so unhinged, he tells you things straightforward, he protects you with everything he's got, and he will bill you accordingly. His invoices are the highlight of Valerie's day, I'm sure.
There was no better man to be Deus other half than Ellison, prim and proper Ellison with his suits and the tattoos he never shows anyone.
The action was full, the comedy was perfect, the smut was exceptionally steamy omg I was not expecting that, and I just adored everything about this book. Including the marvellous new addition Pocket Lint the Third, Esquire.
7 reviews
November 19, 2025
I honestly didn’t think that the vexing villains series could get any better! Alice never ceases to amaze me with her talent and storylines, and how she brings these characters to life and makes you feel like you’re right there in the middle of the action.

Deus and Ellison were just what the other person needed at the right time, both going through their own traumas and needing each other to finally rid themselves of their demons and traumatic pasts.
Alice can perfectly describe lifelong trauma and how it affects her characters, but also keep the comedy aspect of the story going throughout.

There were hilarious moments throughout the book from all our loveable characters. It was great to learn more about Nolan and see him cropping up more frequently. The groundwork has been set for Nolan and Lex to eventually have their own happily ever after, and I literally cannot wait. We had the usual shenanigans from Landon’s parents and the SAVCGEM, which as always were brilliant.

The only thing that could have made this book better would have been a Landon and Leland crossover. Those two NEED to meet one day!
Profile Image for Laura Schäfer.
588 reviews2 followers
November 14, 2025
I’m not gonna lie, I didn’t feel the chemistry between Ellison and Asmodeus as much as between Landon and August but I still liked the book overall.
It was just as ridiculous with a touch of angst as all Alice’s other books.

I also found everything about Ellison’s powers super interesting and the plot twist around them was great.

And I’m also such a sucker for a found family.
Profile Image for Ashley (Red-Haired Ash Reads).
3,402 reviews181 followers
December 23, 2025
Series: Vexing Villains #3
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good

After reading the previous book I was really hoping that we would get a story focused on Asmodeus and Ellison’s relationship. So I was really happy when I jumped into this one and realized it was just what I was wanting.

This book is kind of split into two because the first half of this story focuses on Asmodeus and his past, and the trouble it is causing today. The second half of this book ends up focusing on Ellison and his childhood trauma, and the threat that is against them. While I don’t normally love such split in a story, it worked for this one because it let us really get to know each of these characters as they deal with their trauma’s together and became a stronger couple because of it.

Asmodeus, aka Deus, is a fascinating assassin who has broken away from his traumatic life of being trained as an assassin and is building a new life on his own terms. But because of how he was raised he has no idea what is normal or appropriate, so we continue to see Deus being weird but also so honest, which I really loved. I really just loved how Deus was so protective of Ellison from the beginning and instantly was there to support Ellison when needed. It was great just seeing a man support his partner without judgement or fear. Also, I love that Deus gets the villain pet in this and that it was not the typical cat.

Ellison is the straightlaced illusionist that we meet in the previous book but we quickly learn that is not all he is. He has a hidden sense of humor and actually really enjoys this crazy group of misfits. His past was heartbreaking and traumatic. It didn’t surprise me at all that after everything he had been though he had trouble with his illusions. The person after him was a very interesting surprise but I do love how it was resolved and that Deus was able to help him move forward from it.

Overall, this was another wonderful book for this series. I really loved this couple and how they have both found a family in this group of misfit heroes and villains. I really hope we get more books in this series because I really enjoy this band of misfit supes.

TW: abusive parents; forced medical procedures; torture and death; PTSD and trauma; kidnapping;
Profile Image for Amy L.
28 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2026
(Cross-posted on Audible): This is another hysterical (while also upsetting) book by Alice Winters. I think this series is my favorite of hers. And even though I loved Deus in the last book, I can’t believe how much more I loved him. I knew he was hiding trauma behind the demons, but learning more about him was so fun and emotional. We learned from Leland in the Hitman series that Alice’s funniest characters are masking trauma, which is why the book is as upsetting as it is funny. I was also surprised by how much I loved Ellison. His entire storyline in this book is, frankly, brilliant. I loved the two of them together and I loved all the other characters and how much we got of them. I can’t get over how FUNNY Alice is. Scenes like the balloon in the hospital, the ball of yarn, and the croquet game have me laughing out loud, which I almost never do when listening to audiobooks.

The team up of Alice and Michael Lesley is the best thing about this series. I tell everyone that stands still long enough that Michael Lesley is the best narrator working today. His ability to create dozens of individual voices is unmatched. And he does this over and over in other series with almost no overlaps. I adore and listen religiously to at least 4 series he has done: Monstrous by Lily Mayne, Tales From Verania by TJ Klune, SOS Hotel by Adam Vex/Ariana Nash, and Passing Through Cafe by Nik Knight. And each series has an entire host of characters that are unique and instantly recognizable. You always know exactly who is talking. I think he’s a superhero on his own. In this series, Landon might be my favorite. It’s not just the voice/accent, but it’s the delivery. He makes funnier lines even funnier, and he even had the ability to bring you to tears. There’s a scene in a pizza place in this book that is incredibly well-acted.

I’m going back and listening to the first two books of Vexing Villains again.
Profile Image for Courtney Diane.
301 reviews1 follower
November 11, 2025
Epic Series Continues Epically!

Oh, holy moly. This was an amazing read. Seriously this whole series is unexpectedly wonderful. Anything by Alice Winters is seriously incredible, but this series is in my top 5 - it’s wonderful to see such amazing characters, unbelievable world building and so much fun and you can tell it’s full of heart. Seriously, I can’t tell you enough, other than you need to read it. I’ve loved seeing the characters in this series grow into found family. The chaotic fun and entertainment is top tier. Getting to really know Deus and Ellison made my heart so happy and with this book we really started to get to see more of the other MCs with their fresh perspective. Plus Landon and August are just so adorable and play a key part in this continuation of Vexing Villians. 5 bigs stars with so much appreciation. Note this is definitely a part of a series and will be enjoyed after reading the first 2 books in the series. Each book is world building and I highly recommend the audio formats-as the narrator does a phenomenal job of bringing the story to life
Profile Image for Shannon.
2,756 reviews223 followers
November 11, 2025
I love this crazy, wacky, loving found family so much, I think they just might be my favorites of all Alice's characters.

Ellison is such a dear, and Asmodeus is such an adorable demon.

This was a real twisty-turny, heart-tugger of a read. I laughed out loud and held tears back. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book.

If there was ever a reason for a person to turn villain, I wouldn't have blamed either Deus or Ellison for taking that path in life. Well, we know Deus did at first, kind of, but growing up how he did, can you fault the guy?!? But finding Ellison gave him more of a purpose in life, and same can be said for Ellison. It was heartbreaking reading what happened to both of them in the past but seeing them fight through their "demons" was worth it.

A Rogue in Sight was an engaging, entertaining, and downright humorous read, with that bit of intenseness that Ms. Winters like to throw in to keep us on our toes.
And like always, if she decides to continue this series, I will not complain!
Profile Image for avid reader 1.
822 reviews1 follower
November 12, 2025
4 ½ Stars

A Rogue in Sight is an excellent continuation of the Vexing Villains series. Since it’s been a while since the first two books were released, I reread them to be ready for this one. I enjoyed them just as much now as I did then. I loved seeing all the established characters again and watching them be their own unique selves.
I was excited to hear that Deus was getting his own story and loved getting to know him. He is 97.5% of the time just a couple of steps away from being totally outrageous, and I bought into it 100%. He’s near the top of my list of favorite Alice Winters characters.
I was on the fence for a while before I really got to know Ellison. He kept things close to his chest, but when he finally let me see inside him, I wanted to snatch him up and hug him tight.
I wasn’t sure how these two would pair up with their totally opposite personalities, but I am delighted with how it played out. Their physical and emotional chemistry is potent, and their HEA is believable and satisfying.
I look forward to more from this author.
2,012 reviews25 followers
November 9, 2025
From the very first page, this story grabs you with its chaotic charm and refuses to let go. Someone’s out to stir trouble for our beloved, perpetually suit-clad Ellison, and Deus—verbose, dramatic, and fiercely protective—decides to play guardian whether Ellison likes it or not. What unfolds is a gloriously tangled journey of trust, trauma, and unexpected tenderness.
Ellison and Deus are a study in contrasts and similarities: both shaped by pain, both stubbornly independent, and both hilariously ill-equipped for the emotional rollercoaster they’re about to ride. Watching them fumble, fight, and finally fall into something resembling love is equal parts heartwarming and heart-wrenching. With Landon’s bookish charm, August’s agreeable chaos, a mischievous villain, and a delightfully named pet, this story is packed with shenanigans, invoices, and a hard-earned HEA that truly warms the heart. I laughed, I cried, and I cheered for this found family every step of the way.

Profile Image for Nathanae.
48 reviews37 followers
January 13, 2026
I loved it so much. I am a big fan of Alice Winters' writing in general but this one was one of my favourites it had everything. I laughed, I cried, I was confused by... Let's just say the relationship in this one is confusing. 😅 Ellison and Asmodeus are the ultimate grumpy/Not just sunshine, more like a manic person? 😅 Asmodeus backstory is unhinged and the way he just kind of latches on to Ellison until he stops fighting is inspired. 🤣 of course there is a weird pet. Would it be an Alice Winters book without one??
What I also loved: while the blurb on book 2 emphasised Landon's laziness and desire to just sit around and read, maybe because he had to be a protagonist in that story, he didn't really come off as THAT lazy in "Hero in hiding". In THIS book, however: full-on wet sandbag mode. 🤣
There are some darker themes in there as well, and of course the odd death and crime, but overall quite funny and ridiculous. Can't wait for the audiobook to come out so I can listen to it, too.
Profile Image for Jacquie Stewart.
2,654 reviews74 followers
November 11, 2025
Honestly, I was skeptical going in that Ellison and Deus would work, but they really did. They were pretty sweet in how neither gave up on the other. Deus was stubbornly there for Ellison even when the other man didn't think he wanted him. The further we got into the story, the more I saw similarities between them, which pulled them together.

Plenty of hijinks from our villains posing as the "good guys," including some of my faves like Nolan. So many laugh out loud moments.

I'm trying not to give spoilers away, but I'm still caught on the reveal - so well done! Didn't expect it to go that way.

Entertaining, fast paced, a tad higher on the steam scale than usual Winters books, though that's just the nature of the relationship Deus and Ellison have. I really enjoyed this 3rd outing the in series.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,741 reviews24 followers
November 13, 2025
Ellison, Ellison, Ellison, Ellison

You will understand the title of my review when you read this latest book by Alice Winters. I love how she is now writing about the “villains” and giving them as happy endings as the “heroes”. She delves into what made them into the bad guys that they are while still making us laugh with lovely things like an adventure to the world’s biggest ball of yarn. I love how complex her stories are while still being so eminently readable. She does some wonderful plotting as she puts her characters through the craziest things including falling in love. She is one of my favorite writers because of how well she writes and the humor and humanity that she brings to her work.
515 reviews15 followers
November 19, 2025
I already knew I was going to love Deus’s story and we already had a good idea of his backstory but it was great getting the full backstory of his upbringing. I love his continued practice of invoicing Natalie. Learning about Ellison and his superpower was super interesting and I loved the depth in which it was shown and the twist as well.

Alice Winters has an amazing imagination and I adore her stories as they always contain diverse and wacky characters with lots of heart amongst the hilarious situations they find themselves in. She is always a go to author for me.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for Abigail | mooretoread |.
167 reviews17 followers
December 29, 2025
The way I love these unhinged superhero/villains! I laughed out loud so much- but also cried a few times! Alice has a way of writing these chaotic characters that have so much hidden depth. You get their unhinged personalities up front and then these very personal, and very sad backgrounds. It has you cheering them on for a hea very quickly.

I ached for both Deus and Ellison and their terrible upbringings.

This was up there with my favorite of Alice’s books. There was so much going on but you have consistency with these crazy characters. Like Landon and August. I was cackling. And what a creative mind to bring in Ellison’s illusions.

I so need Nolan and Lex’s story!
Profile Image for Suzy.
950 reviews7 followers
November 13, 2025
A Rouge in Sight is the new book in the Vexing Villains series, this time is Elliot and Deus story! This was a fantastic story, hilarious characters, banter that is hilarious, sarcastic and lots of twist and turns. Someone is out to get Ellison, so Deus takes it upon himself to be his bodyguard and protect him. Ellison is hard to get to know by he is letting Deus to know him, I love their interaction, these two are so fun. This book was a fun ride, I love watching Landon & August!! Overall this was a great book, fun and with a lot of action! Can’t wait for more of this serie!!
Profile Image for Lu.
264 reviews18 followers
November 20, 2025
A Rogue in Sight didn't disappoint. The story has dark moments, but there were also lots of laughs and superhero action. Deus and Ellis were intriguing characters, and I loved getting to know their background. It was more than what I expected. While Deus and Ellis were opposites, they worked well together. One thing I would've liked to see was a bit more tension between the two of them, and more development on their relationship. Overall, this was a fun, action-y romcom. The villain was an interesting twist.

4.75 shooting stars
Profile Image for Maria.
187 reviews3 followers
November 11, 2025
Deus and Ellison is story was so darn fun to read, with such opposite personalities the back and forth was on point along with the full belly laughs

This story has twist and turns that will keep you guessing, but yet smiles and laughter will keep you turning the pages. We are lucky to have the whole gang back together making mischief and memories.

Written to keep a reader guessing and engaged , their story will keep you very entertained.
Profile Image for Deborah.
3,854 reviews498 followers
December 11, 2025
I struggled a bit with this one. Which is why it took me a month to read it.
This author is one of my favourites. She’s written the funniest books I’ve ever read. And there’s humour here of course but it just wasn't fully working for me. So I stepped back and returned. Maybe it was just me but it worked better then.

In the end it was an okay read. Not one of my favourites or one I’ll ever re-read.
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