Throne in the Dark (Deluxe Edition): A Novel,

Humorous fantasy romance and lighthearted adventure define the popular Villains & Virtues trilogy, a series that blends comedic romance tropes with classic fantasy questing. Author A.K. Caggiano gained widespread attention in the romcomtasy subgenre following the release of Throne in the Dark, which introduces a half-demon protagonist accidentally linked by magic to an energetic blonde pickpocket.

Career & Background

A.K. Caggiano, who also goes by Ashley, resides in Vermont with her husband, cats, and a small flock of chickens. Her early interest in narrative storytelling was sparked by television shows such as Reading Rainbow, eventually leading her to write stories filled with dragons, romantic tension, and lighthearted supernatural elements. Caggiano originally self-published her breakout Villains & Virtues series in 2022, building a dedicated indie readership before traditional publisher Sourcebooks acquired the rights for expanded releases, beginning with Throne in the Dark (Deluxe Edition): A Novel in 2025.

Writing Style & Themes

Caggiano's writing balances character banter, whimsical world-building, and heart with a distinct dose of moral ambiguity. Writing primarily in the fantasy romcom subgenre, she constructs narratives where reluctant dark heroes and irrepressible heroines navigate high-stakes magical conflicts while confronting slow-burn romantic attraction. Her work regularly combines comedic dialogue with elements that feel simultaneously spooky and cute.

Major Works

• Throne in the Dark — The opening installment of the Villains & Virtues series follows the son of a demon lord on his quest to fulfill a dark legacy alongside a pickpocket magically bound to his side.
• Throne in the Dark (Deluxe Edition): A Novel — The special edition rerelease of Caggiano's hit novel, republished by Sourcebooks following its successful self-published launch.
• Summoned to the Wilds — The second book in the Villains & Virtues trilogy, continuing the magical journey and evolving relationship of the lead characters.
• Eclipse of the Crown — The epic third book in the Villains & Virtues series, in which the central couple must face their feelings for each other as global stakes peak.
• Bound to Fall — A standalone fantasy romance set within the same universe as the Villains & Virtues series.
• Bound and Tide — A companion novel set in Caggiano's fantasy realm, further expanding the world-building and romantic storylines of her broader catalog.