A Villain’s Hope by S. E. McPherson

Description

Death was only the beginning.

Elias Batesian clawed his way back from the grave with dangerous magic humming through his veins—and a past he’d rather leave buried. But magic, like secrets, has a way of collecting its debts.

When the mages who resurrected him return to claim what they’re owed, Elias, his mage-king Beau, and the fiercely brilliant Queen Penny are pulled into a centuries-old conflict: ancient magic versus a shadowy order sworn to contain it. And this time, the battlefield isn’t just their kingdom—it’s the fate of the world itself.

To survive, Elias must confront the man he used to be… and the darker version he may need to become again.

Because power demands sacrifice.
And love? Love complicates everything.

At the heart of it all is a relationship that refuses to fit into neat little boxes: a polyamorous bond built on trust, tension, loyalty, and very real stakes. As alliances shift and danger closes in, the trio must decide what they’re willing to risk—not just for their kingdom, but for each other.

*A Villain’s Hope* delivers high fantasy with teeth: political intrigue, steamy on-page romance, found family chaos, and characters who are messy, powerful, and impossible not to root for. With rich bi, autistic, and ADHD representation, this is a story where identity is as integral as magic—and just as transformative.

Perfect for readers who like their fantasy epic, their romance unapologetically queer, and their villains… complicated.

Book Details
Author: S. E. McPherson
Format: Paperback
Series: Heart-Mage Trilogy (Book 2)
Publication Date: March 31, 2026
ISBN: 9798992254334