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Starter Villain by John Scalzi: A Delightful and Quirky Dive into Supervillainy

Writer's picture: Vinit NairVinit Nair

Rating: 4/5 ⭐

When I picked up Starter Villain by John Scalzi, I expected a fun, lighthearted, and entertaining read. Scalzi has a reputation for blending humor with engaging storytelling, and this book did not disappoint. The premise alone—an ordinary guy unexpectedly inheriting his estranged uncle’s supervillain empire—was intriguing enough to pull me in. What I didn’t anticipate was just how much I’d enjoy the absurd yet well-grounded world Scalzi creates, where talking cats and labor-unionized dolphins fit seamlessly into the narrative.


The plot is simple but effective. Charlie Fitzer, a down-on-his-luck substitute teacher struggling with finances, suddenly finds himself as the heir to his late uncle Jake’s vast empire. But instead of a traditional business, Jake’s empire is steeped in classic supervillain tropes—volcanic lairs, secret plots, and ethically questionable ventures. The catch? Charlie has no idea what he’s doing and soon discovers that being a villain (or at least managing one’s villainous inheritance) is not as straightforward as it seems.

What I loved most about the story was its effortless humor. Scalzi takes an almost bureaucratic approach to villainy, treating it as just another industry, complete with rival businesses, legal disputes, and even workplace negotiations with highly intelligent dolphins. Rather than painting Charlie as an outright "bad guy," the novel focuses on the absurdity of corporate structures, power plays, and ethical dilemmas in a world where villainy is just another business model.


One of the highlights of my experience with Starter Villain was Wil Wheaton’s narration. He doesn’t just read the book—he performs it. His enthusiasm and comedic timing elevate Scalzi’s already witty dialogue, making every character distinct and every joke land with the perfect punch.


Charlie’s bewilderment, Mathilda Morrison’s no-nonsense efficiency, and even the sarcastic, world-weary talking cats feel alive thanks to Wheaton’s expressive delivery. I’ve enjoyed his narration in other Scalzi books, and he proves once again that he’s the perfect voice for Scalzi’s brand of humor-infused sci-fi.


Several moments in Starter Villain stuck with me, making the book a delight to listen to:

  • The talking cats: These aren’t just pets lounging around with an attitude—they’re schemers, planners, and power players in their own right. Their sharp wit and cryptic advice make them some of the most entertaining characters in the book.

  • The unconventional funeral scene: Jake’s funeral isn’t a solemn affair; it’s a strategic gathering where rival villains show up just to make sure he’s truly gone. The humor and tension in this scene perfectly set the book’s tone.

  • The labor negotiations with unionized dolphins: One of the most original and hilarious elements of the book. The idea that dolphins, of all creatures, would band together for better wages and working conditions is peak Scalzi humor.


Starter Villain is a quick, fun, and thoroughly entertaining read. It doesn’t try to be anything too deep, but it nails what it sets out to do—tell a funny, engaging story with memorable characters and a fresh take on the supervillain trope. The satire of corporate life is sharp, the humor is spot-on, and Wil Wheaton’s narration makes it an even better experience.


While it may not be the most groundbreaking book, it’s an enjoyable ride that I’d recommend to anyone looking for something light and fun. If you’re a fan of Scalzi’s other works or enjoy comedic sci-fi in the vein of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, you’ll find a lot to love here.


🚀 Final Verdict: A witty, fast-paced adventure that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys humor with their sci-fi. 4/5 ⭐️.

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