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H.E.R.O. #1
Metamorphosis
H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis kicks off the most extensive, continuous and ongoing superhero series of the last decade, if not longer! This novel is a standalone book, but it introduces the new world, the city of Metrocity, and the core heroes involved in over 1.7 million words throughout the series. It functions much like a television series or comic book series, with intertwining plots and characters throughout.H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis follows the story of three people - Stephanie, Lance, and Rael. They find they are changed into supers, along with others in Metrocity, when a meteor shower unleashes radiation above the city. The friends discover that they become a psychic, a brick, and a mutant. They must cope with the changes to their everyday life, friends and college as they discover the new powers at their disposal. In the midst of trying to become heroes and dealing with the changes to their normal lives, a mutant villain captures many new supers in a bid to build an army for herself.The H.E.R.O. series is a new supers universe of heroes and villains. As a novel-based story forum, it allows for deeper character development than that of a comic book or graphic novel based story.At the current point in the universe, supers have existed for about twenty five years. The H.E.R.O. organization - the Homeland Extraordinary Response Organization - allows for a loosely operated environment for the heroes to operate without being vigilantes. The common super types include Psychics, Blasters, Bricks and Mutants, although some crossover occurs in unusual individuals. Psychics generally gain mental powers, such as telepathy, telekinesis, or emotional powers. Blasters have the ability to generate or control an element or waveform, such as light, electricity, or heat. Bricks are the strongmen of the world, having massive strength and bodies that can sustain immense damage. Mutants appear less human in appearance due to the addition of blades, tentacles, fins, wings, tails, and more to their bodies, and are between a brick and the others in physical strength.H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis is a full length novel of approximately 122,000 words. Please visit the author's website for more information on characters and character images. (kevinrau.com)The current books in the H.E.R.O. series - Metamorphosis (Book 1)H.E.R.O. - New Markets (Book 2)H.E.R.O. - Rise and Fall (Book 3)H.E.R.O. - Dark Research (Book 4)H.E.R.O. - Horde (Book 5)H.E.R.O. - Paragon (Book 6)H.E.R.O. - Illustrated GuideH.E.R.O. Shorts - Gatecrasher (Book 7)H.E.R.O. Shorts - Silverlash (Book 8)H.E.R.O. - Gene Front (Book 9)H.E.R.O. - Incursion (Book 10)H.E.R.O. - Dolldrum (Book 11)H.E.R.O. - Malice (Book 12)H.E.R.O. - Dark Breach (Book 13)H.E.R.O. - Nightmonger (Book 14)H.E.R.O. - Battlefronts (Book 15)H.E.R.O. - Riftguard (Book 16)H.E.R.O. - Augments (Book 17)H.E.R.O. - Summoned (Book 18)H.E.R.O. - Bio-Organism (Book 19) - coming soon
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2011
54 people are currently reading
492 people want to read
About the author
Kevin Rau
30 books29 followersBorn in 1970, I've been interested in fantasy and science fiction since perhaps the age of 10. I believe my love of medieval knights came about when my father built a wooden shield and sword for me to use in elementary school for some event.
Through my school years I read hundreds (or thousands? - it's hard to recall at this point) of fantasy and science fiction novels. Comic books and super heroes came a bit later, although I recall seeing the Christopher Reeve Superman movies at a very young age (and loving them). Since my later teens I believe I've watched nearly every major fantasy, science fiction, and super-hero movie that has come out.
I still love reading fantasy and science fiction, although I wish there were more novels based on superheroes. This is something that drove me to create my own supers universe and heroes in written form. I love supers, but I've always wanted more character depth than a comic book can provide. (Not to mention the immense length of time it takes for a comic series to do a story is just plain too long to me.)
Writing is a hobby for me, I'm a full-time computer programmer and systems administrator for a small company. Fortunately the skills I've learned allow me to work with 3D programs to render the characters (and covers) for my books. My hope is to put out a novel or two a year, time allowing. At this point I'd like to grow the H.E.R.O. Universe with more novels, as well as start a fantasy series at some point.
Through my school years I read hundreds (or thousands? - it's hard to recall at this point) of fantasy and science fiction novels. Comic books and super heroes came a bit later, although I recall seeing the Christopher Reeve Superman movies at a very young age (and loving them). Since my later teens I believe I've watched nearly every major fantasy, science fiction, and super-hero movie that has come out.
I still love reading fantasy and science fiction, although I wish there were more novels based on superheroes. This is something that drove me to create my own supers universe and heroes in written form. I love supers, but I've always wanted more character depth than a comic book can provide. (Not to mention the immense length of time it takes for a comic series to do a story is just plain too long to me.)
Writing is a hobby for me, I'm a full-time computer programmer and systems administrator for a small company. Fortunately the skills I've learned allow me to work with 3D programs to render the characters (and covers) for my books. My hope is to put out a novel or two a year, time allowing. At this point I'd like to grow the H.E.R.O. Universe with more novels, as well as start a fantasy series at some point.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
September 1, 2016
-Intrascendencias meta-humanas postadolescentes.-
Género. Ciencia-Ficción.
Lo que nos cuenta. Los veinteañeros Stephanie, Lance y Rael, los tres con un progenitor superhumano pero sin poderes ellos mismos, se van a comprar ropa y almorzar a un centro comercial de Metrocity mientras vuelve a caer una lluvia de meteoros sobre la ciudad. Los expertos suponen que los restos del asteroide que en los años ochenta tuvo que ser destruido mediante armas nucleares volverán a causar otro estallido de mutaciones espontáneas y efectivamente los tres amigos y bastantes otras personas empiezan a cambiar. Primer libro de la serie H.E.R.O.
¿Quiere saber más del libro, sin spoilers? Visite:
http://librosdeolethros.blogspot.com/...
Género. Ciencia-Ficción.
Lo que nos cuenta. Los veinteañeros Stephanie, Lance y Rael, los tres con un progenitor superhumano pero sin poderes ellos mismos, se van a comprar ropa y almorzar a un centro comercial de Metrocity mientras vuelve a caer una lluvia de meteoros sobre la ciudad. Los expertos suponen que los restos del asteroide que en los años ochenta tuvo que ser destruido mediante armas nucleares volverán a causar otro estallido de mutaciones espontáneas y efectivamente los tres amigos y bastantes otras personas empiezan a cambiar. Primer libro de la serie H.E.R.O.
¿Quiere saber más del libro, sin spoilers? Visite:
http://librosdeolethros.blogspot.com/...
January 1, 2013
I didn't finish this book. I gave up on it.
I think the author is great at writing action scenes. He clearly loves the comic book genre and is well versed in the tropes. He's put an awful long time in details.
But the details kill the book. We're told about three characters and their new powers. Then the characters tell each other about how their powers work. Then we meet new characters and the leads explain yet again how their powers work.
And the costumes were explained in great detail, in some cases twice. And the characters kept telling each other how cool they looked when they were empowered and their eyes were backlit.
I sincerely felt like the author was going for a large word count rather than a solid story.
Everything was so convenient for the supers. Once they got their powers, they had perfect bodies, no need to shower or shave or use the potty anymore. There was someone who had a costume making power to make great suits that would repair themselves.
It is the author's first book and he acknowledges weakness in the offering. But I wearied of the characters about 60% through the book. I just don't like them anymore. Since he's giving this as a freebie, I would consider hiring a good editor to help chop it down into something more palpable.
I think the author is great at writing action scenes. He clearly loves the comic book genre and is well versed in the tropes. He's put an awful long time in details.
But the details kill the book. We're told about three characters and their new powers. Then the characters tell each other about how their powers work. Then we meet new characters and the leads explain yet again how their powers work.
And the costumes were explained in great detail, in some cases twice. And the characters kept telling each other how cool they looked when they were empowered and their eyes were backlit.
I sincerely felt like the author was going for a large word count rather than a solid story.
Everything was so convenient for the supers. Once they got their powers, they had perfect bodies, no need to shower or shave or use the potty anymore. There was someone who had a costume making power to make great suits that would repair themselves.
It is the author's first book and he acknowledges weakness in the offering. But I wearied of the characters about 60% through the book. I just don't like them anymore. Since he's giving this as a freebie, I would consider hiring a good editor to help chop it down into something more palpable.
June 21, 2012
Stephanie Quinn, Lance Casey and Rael Stromm have been friends for years. They spent a lot of time together, so when Stephanie's Dad insisted the boys accompany Steph to the mall it didn't seem THAT strange. The boys loved being with Stephanie and the fact that she was hot just made it more fun. What they didn't know was that Steph's Dad knew there would be a meteor shower that day and it would change their lives forever. Supers were common in Metrocity. Stephanie, Lance and Rael's parents were supers. When the meteor shower hit, it changed these young people into supers. They were each thrilled to be new supers and couldn't wait to join the H.E.R.O. program. All three worked out and ate healthy but now they had super powers to contend with. This is their journey into the new them.
Kevin Rau does a beautiful job of laying the groundwork for future books about these three and other supers. It is interesting to learn how supers are 'made' and how they deal with their new changes. I never knew being a super could be so profitable too. *smile* This book shows the good and the bad of being a super. The characters leap off the page. I can see movies and comic books about these characters. The most wonderful thing of all is, they are positive. They aren't just beating the bad guys the supers, at least these three, really want to help. You'll enjoy this book even more if you are a fan of supers already. I found the story delightfully well written and filled with some surprises. You can't go wrong here. This series will be addictive, in a good way!
I found one issue.. *sigh* the killing of a Mustang. I don't condone senseless violence toward Mustangs and I can completely see how it was an accident, but still, held a moment of silence for the Mustang that gave it's life. *wink*
I gave this one a resounding 5 out of 5 books because I think we need positive characters.
Kevin Rau does a beautiful job of laying the groundwork for future books about these three and other supers. It is interesting to learn how supers are 'made' and how they deal with their new changes. I never knew being a super could be so profitable too. *smile* This book shows the good and the bad of being a super. The characters leap off the page. I can see movies and comic books about these characters. The most wonderful thing of all is, they are positive. They aren't just beating the bad guys the supers, at least these three, really want to help. You'll enjoy this book even more if you are a fan of supers already. I found the story delightfully well written and filled with some surprises. You can't go wrong here. This series will be addictive, in a good way!
I found one issue.. *sigh* the killing of a Mustang. I don't condone senseless violence toward Mustangs and I can completely see how it was an accident, but still, held a moment of silence for the Mustang that gave it's life. *wink*
I gave this one a resounding 5 out of 5 books because I think we need positive characters.
April 27, 2013
This is not a book I would normally read, but I really enjoyed it. The author could have used a good proof-read, but the errors were minimal.
I wasn't sure I'd like the constant switching of points of view, but it gave great depth to the story that otherwise wouldn't have been there. That being said, I think it could've been written entirely in third person and not lost anything.
Very fun book, reads very much like a comic book.
I wasn't sure I'd like the constant switching of points of view, but it gave great depth to the story that otherwise wouldn't have been there. That being said, I think it could've been written entirely in third person and not lost anything.
Very fun book, reads very much like a comic book.
July 22, 2025
H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis
by Kevin Rau starts off in a world full of superheroes and super villains. All Stephanie, Rael, and Lance want is to change and gain some special abilities. They've trained and prepared their entire lives to be infected by that strange virus that occasionally rains down in a meteor shower from debris orbiting the planet. But when that finally happens, their world changes more than they realized it would. New abilities bring new temptations and new fears, new struggles and new enemies. They have been handed the power to affect history - will it destroy them instead?
This is an exploratory story of self-discovery and world-building. The author obviously had a good time generating the details of the three protagonists' new lives, abilities, and costumes. They are examined in-depth, and it's a fascinating journey. Although their aren't many surprises, the book is enjoyable and engaging.
The writing is a bit choppy, but the annoyance wears off as you get drawn into the action. The author does take full advantage of the 'super-hero-hotness' idea; his characters are disgustingly good-looking! Whoever is narrating at the moment (viewpoint switches mostly between the three main characters) has their senses turned all the way up to nymphomaniac, and spends considerable amounts of time remarking on the prettiness of themselves or the others. (If you don't know what nymphomaniac means, please don't Google it. Go find a dictionary like a sane person.) While the characters show some restraint and don't go into full-out orgy mode, the descriptions are uncomfortably specific in places.
It's a fun superhero read, but as a result of the rampant sensuality and self-congratulatory prettiness, I rate this for Adults on the Aardvark scale. There is also the expected comic-book level violence and death.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it.
As an aside:
For a more mature superhero story, with more realistic characters, I highly recommend Playing For Keeps
by Mur Lafferty. (For adults, also, because of some adult situations and alcohol usage.) I'll do a real review on that one sometime soon! Playing For Keeps is also available as a free audio book from Podiobooks.com, a free audiobook podcast library.
Some of the above links are affiliate links to Amazon.com. See my disclosures here.
by Kevin Rau starts off in a world full of superheroes and super villains. All Stephanie, Rael, and Lance want is to change and gain some special abilities. They've trained and prepared their entire lives to be infected by that strange virus that occasionally rains down in a meteor shower from debris orbiting the planet. But when that finally happens, their world changes more than they realized it would. New abilities bring new temptations and new fears, new struggles and new enemies. They have been handed the power to affect history - will it destroy them instead?This is an exploratory story of self-discovery and world-building. The author obviously had a good time generating the details of the three protagonists' new lives, abilities, and costumes. They are examined in-depth, and it's a fascinating journey. Although their aren't many surprises, the book is enjoyable and engaging.
The writing is a bit choppy, but the annoyance wears off as you get drawn into the action. The author does take full advantage of the 'super-hero-hotness' idea; his characters are disgustingly good-looking! Whoever is narrating at the moment (viewpoint switches mostly between the three main characters) has their senses turned all the way up to nymphomaniac, and spends considerable amounts of time remarking on the prettiness of themselves or the others. (If you don't know what nymphomaniac means, please don't Google it. Go find a dictionary like a sane person.) While the characters show some restraint and don't go into full-out orgy mode, the descriptions are uncomfortably specific in places.
It's a fun superhero read, but as a result of the rampant sensuality and self-congratulatory prettiness, I rate this for Adults on the Aardvark scale. There is also the expected comic-book level violence and death.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it.
As an aside:
For a more mature superhero story, with more realistic characters, I highly recommend Playing For Keeps
by Mur Lafferty. (For adults, also, because of some adult situations and alcohol usage.) I'll do a real review on that one sometime soon! Playing For Keeps is also available as a free audio book from Podiobooks.com, a free audiobook podcast library.Some of the above links are affiliate links to Amazon.com. See my disclosures here.
July 14, 2017
Although this isn't explicitly an RPG related book, it reads like someone's Superhero game-log cleaned up and turned into a novel. It's fast, readable, and had a really noticeable amount of space given over to what feels very much like game mechanics.
It also feels very much like a comic book. All the 'good guys' (super or not) are very attractive, and almost certainly white. The author tried very hard NOT to make the world sexist - there are women with super strength (mentioned, but not seen), women doctors, and women police officers.
Unfortunately, the main female character, though clearly written with a lot of affection, is a terrible construction. and she's in a scientific field. Admittedly she's intelligent, and in a scientific field, but still she fails both on a personal and plot line level. Even before her powers manifested, her interests were flirting and shopping. Her powers not only make her a 'fragile flower' in constant need of rescue, they also compel her to be sexually available (and inescapably desirable) to everyone around her. Remarkably, the book is kept to a PG rating, but still...
Not utterly hateful, but but not a winner either.
It also feels very much like a comic book. All the 'good guys' (super or not) are very attractive, and almost certainly white. The author tried very hard NOT to make the world sexist - there are women with super strength (mentioned, but not seen), women doctors, and women police officers.
Unfortunately, the main female character, though clearly written with a lot of affection, is a terrible construction. and she's in a scientific field. Admittedly she's intelligent, and in a scientific field, but still she fails both on a personal and plot line level. Even before her powers manifested, her interests were flirting and shopping. Her powers not only make her a 'fragile flower' in constant need of rescue, they also compel her to be sexually available (and inescapably desirable) to everyone around her. Remarkably, the book is kept to a PG rating, but still...
Not utterly hateful, but but not a winner either.
July 24, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review
This is a humorous read based off of the comic book genre of superheroes. The story is centered around three friends who are transformed into meta humans by a meteor shower. Once they are changed, they are recruited into the H.E.R.O. organization to fight against crime and evil mutants and also get paid. Despite being superheroes they tend to get into some very interesting situations. It's a good read, even if you don't like comic books
This is a humorous read based off of the comic book genre of superheroes. The story is centered around three friends who are transformed into meta humans by a meteor shower. Once they are changed, they are recruited into the H.E.R.O. organization to fight against crime and evil mutants and also get paid. Despite being superheroes they tend to get into some very interesting situations. It's a good read, even if you don't like comic books
September 27, 2020
Good writing, but the heroes were a little blase about the wounds they took as first time heroes, particularly the brick. The writer does not go into the blood and gore but does mention all the blood.
I read this as a free book. I'm thinking of buying the second book as the writing was solid and the characters interesting. Not certain of the story content (people being kidnapped for resale). Still tempted.
I read this as a free book. I'm thinking of buying the second book as the writing was solid and the characters interesting. Not certain of the story content (people being kidnapped for resale). Still tempted.
May 22, 2018
OH YEAH!!!
Hero's on the rise!!! I was captured in the first chapter and hung on for the ride. It was very interesting from the different views. Great read for hero fanatics who went the whole transition. Fan for life!!!😁😁😁
Hero's on the rise!!! I was captured in the first chapter and hung on for the ride. It was very interesting from the different views. Great read for hero fanatics who went the whole transition. Fan for life!!!😁😁😁
September 7, 2020
A trio of friends is transformed.
Author freebie. Start of a new superhero series. The twenty somethings get along well, and form a natural superhero team. The milieu seems well thought out, though a little simplistic.
Author freebie. Start of a new superhero series. The twenty somethings get along well, and form a natural superhero team. The milieu seems well thought out, though a little simplistic.
April 30, 2021
I always a good reed
I love the characters I like the author's take on super world And I think it's very interesting I love how he doesn't have them I was just Ask cookie cutter I feel like real people
I love the characters I like the author's take on super world And I think it's very interesting I love how he doesn't have them I was just Ask cookie cutter I feel like real people
February 15, 2024
This book is a rehash of all previous super heroes.
I should have known looking at the cover what this book would be like.
So the story really is a mix of Marvel heroes and does not bring anything fresh to the game.
Not for me, but might just be my age.
I should have known looking at the cover what this book would be like.
So the story really is a mix of Marvel heroes and does not bring anything fresh to the game.
Not for me, but might just be my age.
February 16, 2018
I actually stopped reading this book. I just didn't care to finish it, and I almost always finish every book I read.
December 27, 2018
Very enjoyable story and characters. Fun to read and to relax with. I have read the entire series several times. Wish more would come out.
April 4, 2020
This series is complete trash, but it is sexy and fun to read.
September 8, 2012
H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis by Kevin Rau starts off in a world full of superheroes and super villains. All Stephanie, Rael, and Lance want is to change and gain some special abilities. They've trained and prepared their entire lives to be infected by that strange virus that occasionally rains down in a meteor shower from debris orbiting the planet. But when that finally happens, their world changes more than they realized it would. New abilities bring new temptations and new fears, new struggles and new enemies. They have been handed the power to affect history - will it destroy them instead?
This is an exploratory story of self-discovery and world-building. The author obviously had a good time generating the details of the three protagonists' new lives, abilities, and costumes. They are examined in-depth, and it's a fascinating journey. Although their aren't many surprises, the book is enjoyable and engaging.
The writing is a bit choppy, but the annoyance wears off as you get drawn into the action. The author does take full advantage of the 'super-hero-hotness' idea; his characters are disgustingly good-looking! Whoever is narrating at the moment (viewpoint switches mostly between the three main characters) has their senses turned all the way up to nymphomaniac, and spends considerable amounts of time remarking on the prettiness of themselves or the others. (If you don't know what nymphomaniac means, please don't Google it. Go find a dictionary like a sane person.) While the characters show some restraint and don't go into full-out orgy mode, the descriptions are uncomfortably specific in places.
It's a fun superhero read, but as a result of the rampant sensuality and self-congratulatory prettiness, I rate this for Adults on the Aardvark scale. There is also the expected comic-book level violence and death.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it.
As an aside:
For a more mature superhero story, with more realistic characters, I highly recommend Playing For Keeps by Mur Lafferty. (For adults, also, because of some adult situations and alcohol usage.) I'll do a real review on that one sometime soon! Playing For Keeps is also available as a free audio book from Podiobooks.com, a free audiobook podcast library.
Some of the above links are affiliate links to Amazon.com. See my disclosures here.
by Kevin Rau starts off in a world full of superheroes and super villains. All Stephanie, Rael, and Lance want is to change and gain some special abilities. They've trained and prepared their entire lives to be infected by that strange virus that occasionally rains down in a meteor shower from debris orbiting the planet. But when that finally happens, their world changes more than they realized it would. New abilities bring new temptations and new fears, new struggles and new enemies. They have been handed the power to affect history - will it destroy them instead?This is an exploratory story of self-discovery and world-building. The author obviously had a good time generating the details of the three protagonists' new lives, abilities, and costumes. They are examined in-depth, and it's a fascinating journey. Although their aren't many surprises, the book is enjoyable and engaging.
The writing is a bit choppy, but the annoyance wears off as you get drawn into the action. The author does take full advantage of the 'super-hero-hotness' idea; his characters are disgustingly good-looking! Whoever is narrating at the moment (viewpoint switches mostly between the three main characters) has their senses turned all the way up to nymphomaniac, and spends considerable amounts of time remarking on the prettiness of themselves or the others. (If you don't know what nymphomaniac means, please don't Google it. Go find a dictionary like a sane person.) While the characters show some restraint and don't go into full-out orgy mode, the descriptions are uncomfortably specific in places.
It's a fun superhero read, but as a result of the rampant sensuality and self-congratulatory prettiness, I rate this for Adults on the Aardvark scale. There is also the expected comic-book level violence and death.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review it.
As an aside:
For a more mature superhero story, with more realistic characters, I highly recommend Playing For Keeps
by Mur Lafferty. (For adults, also, because of some adult situations and alcohol usage.) I'll do a real review on that one sometime soon! Playing For Keeps is also available as a free audio book from Podiobooks.com, a free audiobook podcast library.Some of the above links are affiliate links to Amazon.com. See my disclosures here.
June 9, 2014
H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis by Kevin Rau is a great book I just finished reading. The story revolves around three college-aged kids named Stephanie, Rael, and Lance that suddenly find themselves with superpowers. Another huge bonus is that this first book is available as an ebook for free on Amazon.
For more of my book reviews along with author highlights and fantasy and SciFi movie and TV trailers check out my website at www.fantasyworldwriter.com
I found this book to be highly enjoyable. I have read a ton of comic books over the last 30 years and a few books about superheroes and found this to be among the best. Why you may ask, let me tell you. The author does a great job of developing the three main characters and describing the physically and emotional impacts of suddenly gaining superpowers as a young adult. These three friends find themselves confused and in pain as their bodies go through a massive transition after a meteorite crashes into the mall they are hanging out at.
Lance, already a very large, strong young man finds himself growing significantly more muscle and has difficulty touching anything without crushing it. He is considered a brick and has the strength and jumping ability of a superhero such as Marvel's The Hulk. Stephanie grows out golden hair and gains the ability to read minds, telepathy, and flight. Think of her much like Marvel Girl, Jean Gray before she became Phoenix. Rael, who was already a high degreed blackbelt in several martial arts, gains significant speed, healing powers, and claws much like Wolverine.
Together these friends quickly decide they want to use their powers to help others and join the H.E.R.O. superhero group. The group is interesting because it is very structured to organize and dispatch superheroes to various accidents and super villain locations much like existing police forces are dispatched today.
I always enjoy reading stories about young main characters who are just starting their careers but have the drive, abilities, and heart to become special in their own way. Another series of books that have this same focus on young characters that this book reminds me of is Terrier by Tamora Pierce.
H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis by Kevin Rau is a great book I absolutely recommend for those that read comics and want to read a more in-depth story about superheroes. I also think that those that like fantasy novels in a modern setting and fast moving fiction will in enjoy this book also. Some reviews I have read have stated that this book is fairly light reading or even confusing since the author switches form 3rd person to 1st person in each chapter. I didn't feel that way at all though. I have read plenty of fantasy and superhero books and comics and found this story to be well-paced, well-written and enjoyable throughout. So it is no surprise at all that I give this book at 5 out of 5 stars.
Why not try this book out for free on Amazon and you may find out like me that you like it enough to purchase the second book for only $2.99 like me.
For more of my book reviews along with author highlights and fantasy and SciFi movie and TV trailers check out my website at www.fantasyworldwriter.com
I found this book to be highly enjoyable. I have read a ton of comic books over the last 30 years and a few books about superheroes and found this to be among the best. Why you may ask, let me tell you. The author does a great job of developing the three main characters and describing the physically and emotional impacts of suddenly gaining superpowers as a young adult. These three friends find themselves confused and in pain as their bodies go through a massive transition after a meteorite crashes into the mall they are hanging out at.
Lance, already a very large, strong young man finds himself growing significantly more muscle and has difficulty touching anything without crushing it. He is considered a brick and has the strength and jumping ability of a superhero such as Marvel's The Hulk. Stephanie grows out golden hair and gains the ability to read minds, telepathy, and flight. Think of her much like Marvel Girl, Jean Gray before she became Phoenix. Rael, who was already a high degreed blackbelt in several martial arts, gains significant speed, healing powers, and claws much like Wolverine.
Together these friends quickly decide they want to use their powers to help others and join the H.E.R.O. superhero group. The group is interesting because it is very structured to organize and dispatch superheroes to various accidents and super villain locations much like existing police forces are dispatched today.
I always enjoy reading stories about young main characters who are just starting their careers but have the drive, abilities, and heart to become special in their own way. Another series of books that have this same focus on young characters that this book reminds me of is Terrier by Tamora Pierce.
H.E.R.O. - Metamorphosis by Kevin Rau is a great book I absolutely recommend for those that read comics and want to read a more in-depth story about superheroes. I also think that those that like fantasy novels in a modern setting and fast moving fiction will in enjoy this book also. Some reviews I have read have stated that this book is fairly light reading or even confusing since the author switches form 3rd person to 1st person in each chapter. I didn't feel that way at all though. I have read plenty of fantasy and superhero books and comics and found this story to be well-paced, well-written and enjoyable throughout. So it is no surprise at all that I give this book at 5 out of 5 stars.
Why not try this book out for free on Amazon and you may find out like me that you like it enough to purchase the second book for only $2.99 like me.
August 20, 2012
This is the first of a lengthy and ongoing series of novels about superheroes by the very fan-friendly author Kevin Rau, whom I met on Twitter recently, and who gave me a copy of his book to read. As a comics fan of long standing, I have thought for years that the content of superhero stories would be a good fit for the world-building powers of the novel, and Kevin has proven me right.
Metamorphosis shows us the beginnings of the career of three friends, a woman and two men, who are transformed into superheroes by a meteor shower which also transforms many other people at the same time. The children of heroes, Lance, Rael, and Stephanie are primed for this event and take to their roles immediately and with gusto. (This makes a nice change from the motif of the reluctant hero that is so good in Stan Lee's original Spider-Man, so mediocre in the last Batman movie, and so burned out in general.) They are unstintingly brave and never question their roles. Helping this is the fact that no super can be permanently hurt from the injuries inflicted by a typical fight. Although they aren't immortal or invulnerable, they all heal quickly from even the worst injuries inflicted on them by foes.
The world is divided into four types of heroes, whose names recall the superhero gaming which both Kevin and I are familiar: bricks (big and strong); mutants (monsters); blasters; and psychics. Our three co-protagonists become one each of these (excluding blasters) and face primarily mutants as enemies in this novel. In addition to our heroes and the villains, many other super characters appear; they are quite common in the setting, Metrocity.
The bulk of the story consists of the characters learning about and exploring their powers and realizing how cool it is to be a hero. Of the three, Stephanie has the most interesting and complex suite of powers, with both strengths and vulnerabilities. As a psychic, she is as much hindered and helped by the way that others' thoughts and visual senses are automatically shared with her the form of TV screens that block her vision. Lance, the brick, and Rael, a mutant with tiger abilities, are also satisfactorily explored and worthwhile to read about.
While there is no sex, there is a lot of flirtation and heavy petting in the story, which would probably bore a young child but is not too much for a teen or adult reader.
Kevin notes at the beginning that, as his first novel, Metamorphosis is not as technically accomplished as the later work in the series. I can see places where, as an editor, I would have recommended changes, but I think that if read as light entertainment, without high literary expectations, by a person who is a serious fan of superhero stories, this novel is entertaining and worth the time. I plan to read more of his series.
Kevin's website has a lot of material to support his series, including dozens of colorful images of the characters in multiple poses. I enjoyed looking at these images and became curious about the other characters in the series who are pictured but about whom I have not read.
Metamorphosis shows us the beginnings of the career of three friends, a woman and two men, who are transformed into superheroes by a meteor shower which also transforms many other people at the same time. The children of heroes, Lance, Rael, and Stephanie are primed for this event and take to their roles immediately and with gusto. (This makes a nice change from the motif of the reluctant hero that is so good in Stan Lee's original Spider-Man, so mediocre in the last Batman movie, and so burned out in general.) They are unstintingly brave and never question their roles. Helping this is the fact that no super can be permanently hurt from the injuries inflicted by a typical fight. Although they aren't immortal or invulnerable, they all heal quickly from even the worst injuries inflicted on them by foes.
The world is divided into four types of heroes, whose names recall the superhero gaming which both Kevin and I are familiar: bricks (big and strong); mutants (monsters); blasters; and psychics. Our three co-protagonists become one each of these (excluding blasters) and face primarily mutants as enemies in this novel. In addition to our heroes and the villains, many other super characters appear; they are quite common in the setting, Metrocity.
The bulk of the story consists of the characters learning about and exploring their powers and realizing how cool it is to be a hero. Of the three, Stephanie has the most interesting and complex suite of powers, with both strengths and vulnerabilities. As a psychic, she is as much hindered and helped by the way that others' thoughts and visual senses are automatically shared with her the form of TV screens that block her vision. Lance, the brick, and Rael, a mutant with tiger abilities, are also satisfactorily explored and worthwhile to read about.
While there is no sex, there is a lot of flirtation and heavy petting in the story, which would probably bore a young child but is not too much for a teen or adult reader.
Kevin notes at the beginning that, as his first novel, Metamorphosis is not as technically accomplished as the later work in the series. I can see places where, as an editor, I would have recommended changes, but I think that if read as light entertainment, without high literary expectations, by a person who is a serious fan of superhero stories, this novel is entertaining and worth the time. I plan to read more of his series.
Kevin's website has a lot of material to support his series, including dozens of colorful images of the characters in multiple poses. I enjoyed looking at these images and became curious about the other characters in the series who are pictured but about whom I have not read.
September 10, 2012
The story focuses on three main characters, Stephanie Quinn, Lance Casey and Rael Stromm who are at first normal students who have been best friends for the last ten years. They all live in a place called Metrocity and in Metrocity ‘Supers’ which are super heroes are quite normal and they help and work along side the law enforcement, working through an organisation called H.E.R.O.
When a meteor storm hits the shopping mall that, Stephanie, Lance and Rael are shopping in, they are all turned into ‘Supers’ and the story is mainly about how the three main characters adapt to the change, getting use to their super powers and such dilemmas such as having to decide on their super name and choosing a super hero costume and them joining the H.E.R.O programme.
Good versus bad, heroes and villains all the ingredients in the mix for a good super hero story. I could not help but really like this novel. I just found it fun. The main reason I liked this book is although all the main characters all end up with super powers the author very much portrays the characters as normal human beings underneath all the super power and super hero bravado. You experience the feelings the characters have more on a human level experiencing the new situation the characters find themselves in. My favourite part of the book is when the characters can buy their super costumes on a payment plan!
This is a great idea for a series of novels. What the author has done is by taking an old idea of comic super heroes and built on the stories and made an old idea into an original idea. That comic and super hero fans will really enjoy. The novel is quite long but I was kept entertained and interested all the way to the end. Sometimes the story could be a little repetitive and at times too descriptive but that did not stop a good story shining through. There are some scenes of violence and sexual scenes so I would say that these super heroes are for adults only.
This will make a great read for all comic and super hero fans.
When a meteor storm hits the shopping mall that, Stephanie, Lance and Rael are shopping in, they are all turned into ‘Supers’ and the story is mainly about how the three main characters adapt to the change, getting use to their super powers and such dilemmas such as having to decide on their super name and choosing a super hero costume and them joining the H.E.R.O programme.
Good versus bad, heroes and villains all the ingredients in the mix for a good super hero story. I could not help but really like this novel. I just found it fun. The main reason I liked this book is although all the main characters all end up with super powers the author very much portrays the characters as normal human beings underneath all the super power and super hero bravado. You experience the feelings the characters have more on a human level experiencing the new situation the characters find themselves in. My favourite part of the book is when the characters can buy their super costumes on a payment plan!
This is a great idea for a series of novels. What the author has done is by taking an old idea of comic super heroes and built on the stories and made an old idea into an original idea. That comic and super hero fans will really enjoy. The novel is quite long but I was kept entertained and interested all the way to the end. Sometimes the story could be a little repetitive and at times too descriptive but that did not stop a good story shining through. There are some scenes of violence and sexual scenes so I would say that these super heroes are for adults only.
This will make a great read for all comic and super hero fans.
February 11, 2015
This is an entire series of tales about a world of supers. Seems a special meteor shower triggers the transformations from ordinary humans into meta–humans. This is the first book and it covers the lives of three of our favorite heroes: Spartan, Psystar, and Black Tiger. Starts off immediately at their transformation and by it, describes the world they live in. Not a dull moment to be had.
Seems these three are friends from childhood as their parents pushed them into that position. Seems their parents were first gen supers themselves and knew this day would come. So all three kids (If you can call college–aged people kids.) were trained in martial arts, first aid, and numerous classes on law enforcement so that they would be ready. You know…instant heroes, just add meteors.
The story is so intense that it only covers the first three days of their lives after the transformation. You have: kidnapped and held by the police, attacked by mutants, enlisting to be a member of H.E.R.O., taking care of accidents, learning to use their abilities, and generally trying to keep their lives together. What a mess that turns out to be.
These tweens are all too human, which makes for some funny moments. It also makes you empathize on how human they really are. For instance, try to imagine going to classes at the university when you can’t be in a room with more than six people and you pass out. Yes…she is now a blonde, and realizes she has the limitation but fails to apply it to school till she shows up on Monday morning.
If you love superheroes, then this is a must read! It is a captivating world that is thoroughly consistent within itself, plus it grows and matures. This is a very good story that goes on and on. Thank you, Kevin!
Seems these three are friends from childhood as their parents pushed them into that position. Seems their parents were first gen supers themselves and knew this day would come. So all three kids (If you can call college–aged people kids.) were trained in martial arts, first aid, and numerous classes on law enforcement so that they would be ready. You know…instant heroes, just add meteors.
The story is so intense that it only covers the first three days of their lives after the transformation. You have: kidnapped and held by the police, attacked by mutants, enlisting to be a member of H.E.R.O., taking care of accidents, learning to use their abilities, and generally trying to keep their lives together. What a mess that turns out to be.
These tweens are all too human, which makes for some funny moments. It also makes you empathize on how human they really are. For instance, try to imagine going to classes at the university when you can’t be in a room with more than six people and you pass out. Yes…she is now a blonde, and realizes she has the limitation but fails to apply it to school till she shows up on Monday morning.
If you love superheroes, then this is a must read! It is a captivating world that is thoroughly consistent within itself, plus it grows and matures. This is a very good story that goes on and on. Thank you, Kevin!
April 3, 2015
Ok, I've got to admit that when I started this book I didn't have high hopes for it. It took me a bit to get into it. But when I finally did, it was like getting hit by a brick...pun intended. The first character "Spartan" is a brick a super strong super healing super tough hero with a very idealist view point, Very much the all American, boy scout boy next door. The next character is "Black Tiger" He got a bit of the mutant in him, cats eyes, claw that appear at the end of his finger, super strength, but not brick level, and super fast healing, I feel he could be the bad boy of the group, he has a more realistic out look of people and while he desires to help, he has the potential to become more of a 'Deadpool' type hero. The third and final character of this group is Psystar, she started, and still is a flirt and a bit of a tease. She gained the power of flight, and she can see/hear what's in peoples minds. She gained some healing and some awesome pheromones. Down fall for her are crowds or people who REALLY want something. If someone wants her to do something bad enough, she will be compelled to do it. And crowds now overwhelm her mind because she can only see what they see and hears everyone at once. Bonus she can enter a persons mind and bring them out of comas, pull information from a reluctant source, and completely destroy a mind. She can also control large numbers of people with her pheromones, causing fear, calmness, or anger. Hope she gets a handle on this soon or she's gonna be the weak link of the group.
All in all, I enjoyed it once I finally got into it.
All in all, I enjoyed it once I finally got into it.
April 23, 2013
What a fun book to read.
That being said, there were a couple of things that weighed down the experience. I would’ve like to seen several chapters cut to the bare minimum as they didn’t propel the story forward. Often the character would have an internal thought, then vocalize this thought making for repetitive reading. There were also many opportunities for stronger writing by cutting the use of adverbs. “He moved to the side slightly,” is an example.
If the reader can overlook these issues, sit back and enjoy yourself. The interaction between the three main characters is grin evoking. I chuckled several times when they began learning to use their new super powers. Their dialog is what you’d expect of someone in their early twenties. Some of their funniest lines were during dramatic action scenes. An example of this is one of the main characters, Lance, says to a villain: “Is your name really Kralgon? I mean really? Did your mom name you that?”
The story ended being set up for the following novel, H.E.R.O. – New Markets, to pick up with our new Super Heroes right where they left off. I look forward to reading it and the following thirteen books.
That being said, there were a couple of things that weighed down the experience. I would’ve like to seen several chapters cut to the bare minimum as they didn’t propel the story forward. Often the character would have an internal thought, then vocalize this thought making for repetitive reading. There were also many opportunities for stronger writing by cutting the use of adverbs. “He moved to the side slightly,” is an example.
If the reader can overlook these issues, sit back and enjoy yourself. The interaction between the three main characters is grin evoking. I chuckled several times when they began learning to use their new super powers. Their dialog is what you’d expect of someone in their early twenties. Some of their funniest lines were during dramatic action scenes. An example of this is one of the main characters, Lance, says to a villain: “Is your name really Kralgon? I mean really? Did your mom name you that?”
The story ended being set up for the following novel, H.E.R.O. – New Markets, to pick up with our new Super Heroes right where they left off. I look forward to reading it and the following thirteen books.
December 25, 2012
I read the first three books in this series and really enjoyed them. The writing could certainly be improved though it did get better as the books went along. The characters were interesting but could have been better developed.
The point of view changes for each chapter bugged me. I don't mind changing from one character to the next, but then changing to third person didn't work. There is a reason that books are written in a constant POV. Also...the subtitle of each chapter telling us which point of view it is now changing too is very annoying. Put their names by all means, but the words 'point of view' are now driving me nuts.
Despite my complaints, the storyline of the first book was enjoyable enough that I was happy to pay $2.95 for the second. And then for the third. The third book however was less enjoyable. I really think that Diva was overused and the prejudice against her 'ditziness' was rather annoying and rude.
I was still willing to pay $2.95 for the next book though...but guess what? They've now jumped to $4.95. No thank you :)
The point of view changes for each chapter bugged me. I don't mind changing from one character to the next, but then changing to third person didn't work. There is a reason that books are written in a constant POV. Also...the subtitle of each chapter telling us which point of view it is now changing too is very annoying. Put their names by all means, but the words 'point of view' are now driving me nuts.
Despite my complaints, the storyline of the first book was enjoyable enough that I was happy to pay $2.95 for the second. And then for the third. The third book however was less enjoyable. I really think that Diva was overused and the prejudice against her 'ditziness' was rather annoying and rude.
I was still willing to pay $2.95 for the next book though...but guess what? They've now jumped to $4.95. No thank you :)
February 14, 2012
I want to start off by saying that the author has come up with a pretty interesting premise for these books. The idea of a world where heroes are part of the tapestry of the world isn't a new concept, but it's one that's less frequently explored than a world where heroes are a brand new phenomenon.
That said, this could have been a very solid 4 star book but for a few issues, primarily the use of the first-person narrative. A lot of writers seem to feel that writing in the first person automatically injects an immediacy and intimacy to the story, but unfortunately that's not the case at all. Too often, it results in far too much telling about events instead of showing them. Don't tell me that Stephanie is using her feminine wiles to manipulate Rael into going to get her a coffee, show me HOW she's using her wiles to manipulate him.
Overall, Metamorphosis shows a lot of potential and so I've picked up the second book to see if the author's writing has evolved further.
That said, this could have been a very solid 4 star book but for a few issues, primarily the use of the first-person narrative. A lot of writers seem to feel that writing in the first person automatically injects an immediacy and intimacy to the story, but unfortunately that's not the case at all. Too often, it results in far too much telling about events instead of showing them. Don't tell me that Stephanie is using her feminine wiles to manipulate Rael into going to get her a coffee, show me HOW she's using her wiles to manipulate him.
Overall, Metamorphosis shows a lot of potential and so I've picked up the second book to see if the author's writing has evolved further.
November 3, 2012
3.5 stars for this fun story. Lance, Rael and Stephanie are normal young adults when a meteor storm transforms them into supers: humans with enhanced powers and changed physiques. They are immediately thrown into action as they are recruited by H.E.R.O., an agency that handles superhumans. The story switches between different points of views. I enjoyed Metamorphosis, especially getting into the minds of the different characters as they experienced the joys and challenges of their new situation. I did find that there was a lot of lengthy descriptions that kept getting repeated as the characters explained themselves to different people. A lot of the explanations and descriptions could’ve been cut out and still left the story intact with a better, faster flow. Still, an intriguing premise for a series, and I liked how each of the main characters were so distinct and original in their mind view.
February 9, 2013
Who doesn't like a good book about superheros? I was intrigued because not only do we get a book but we can also see examples of what they look like through the authors designs on his website. Pretty cool.
The story started off good. I was intrigued from the start when the heroes started their transformation. However, the further the story went on the more repetitive it became. The heroes kept describing their powers over and over again for new characters. Ok, I understand. You can fly, you can jump high, and you can fight, moving right along. I started to get really frustrated when Psystar began explaining things yet again for her professors. It was unnecessary and dragged out and why would you want everyone knowing what you can do?
Other than that I enjoyed the story. The ending wasn't bad and had some action. I may continue the story to see if it gets better. I believe it was the authors first. Plus, I'd love to meet some more heroes with different abilities.
The story started off good. I was intrigued from the start when the heroes started their transformation. However, the further the story went on the more repetitive it became. The heroes kept describing their powers over and over again for new characters. Ok, I understand. You can fly, you can jump high, and you can fight, moving right along. I started to get really frustrated when Psystar began explaining things yet again for her professors. It was unnecessary and dragged out and why would you want everyone knowing what you can do?
Other than that I enjoyed the story. The ending wasn't bad and had some action. I may continue the story to see if it gets better. I believe it was the authors first. Plus, I'd love to meet some more heroes with different abilities.
March 10, 2013
How many of us have ever dreamed of being a super hero? Well, imagine taking the best parts of yourself and having them amplified because your DNA was altered because of a meteor shower releasing radiation above you. If you're strong, you're superstrong, if you're pretty and beautiful, you're intoxicating to other people. You get the idea. This book follows the antics and efforts of three really good friends and how they've changed from regular people into real life super heroes, helping the police and others fight crime in the city. I loved learning about their powers and basically just enjoying their sheer "joy" when they find out what they can do. Kevin Rau creates a fantastic world that's interesting, fun, jokey and sexy all at the same time. He describes the abilities in vivid detail and you can picture exactly what the heroes experience right along with them. It was a lot of fun and I recommend it for anyone that loves this type of genre.
February 12, 2014
This is a story about three young adults who suddenly get super powers. Maybe there's more to the story than that, I stopped reading before then. We have Stephanie, who is a self absorbed, manipulative, slut; Rael, who as your typical teen/young adult male is naturally unlikeable; and Lance, who is the guy every parent hopes their son grows up to be.
So these three suddenly get super powers and then are let loose in the world to fight crime/natural disasters/whatever. WITHOUT ONCE BEING TRAINED ON HOW TO HANDLE THEIR POWERS. So Lance is constantly breaking things, including his friend's bones; Rael almost easts a nurse, and Stephanie alternatively goes catatonic or ramps up her inner pole dancer. Not believable. Not likable. Not worth finishing.
If you want to read a good book about someone suddenly developing superpowers - and being treated in a RESPONSIBLE ADULT MANNER, then please go read "Wearing the Cape."
So these three suddenly get super powers and then are let loose in the world to fight crime/natural disasters/whatever. WITHOUT ONCE BEING TRAINED ON HOW TO HANDLE THEIR POWERS. So Lance is constantly breaking things, including his friend's bones; Rael almost easts a nurse, and Stephanie alternatively goes catatonic or ramps up her inner pole dancer. Not believable. Not likable. Not worth finishing.
If you want to read a good book about someone suddenly developing superpowers - and being treated in a RESPONSIBLE ADULT MANNER, then please go read "Wearing the Cape."
January 11, 2012
While the story was entertaining, there are some stylistic issues I had with this book.
The constant switching of perspective between chapters got to be a bit much. A few shifts would have been fine, but changing POV characters every two chapters in a 40 chapter book is too much. However, I did enjoy each character's voice. The third party perspective chapters were my least favorite because there was no strong voice to those chapters.
Also, the repetitive explanation of how their powers work got to be a bit annoying. I feel like if you live in a world with supers, you should know what the short-hand like "brick" means. Although, if I had been reading this book over the course of a month instead of a few days, the review of powers would probably have been welcome.
All that said, I got this book for free, and I think I'll end up buying the next one.
The constant switching of perspective between chapters got to be a bit much. A few shifts would have been fine, but changing POV characters every two chapters in a 40 chapter book is too much. However, I did enjoy each character's voice. The third party perspective chapters were my least favorite because there was no strong voice to those chapters.
Also, the repetitive explanation of how their powers work got to be a bit annoying. I feel like if you live in a world with supers, you should know what the short-hand like "brick" means. Although, if I had been reading this book over the course of a month instead of a few days, the review of powers would probably have been welcome.
All that said, I got this book for free, and I think I'll end up buying the next one.
January 20, 2019
There's a lot to like about this series; the powers have an understandable basis, lots of challenging situations arise, there's a large and diverse set of characters and we even get some aliens.
From book one, I found myself enjoying the experience as a whole, despite the flat delivery. The writing came across as someone transcribing a comic. There's barely any introspection and none of the characters act with much intelligence. Life and death battles happen every five seconds, but we don't see much planning or communication. It's just paper thin.
Like a relationship that falls apart, those minor flaws that we happily overlook at first, eventually become clawing irritations that make you want to scream. Sadly, this series and I have now separated.
So, if you like superhero tales, give this series a try. It may be for you... or maybe not.
From book one, I found myself enjoying the experience as a whole, despite the flat delivery. The writing came across as someone transcribing a comic. There's barely any introspection and none of the characters act with much intelligence. Life and death battles happen every five seconds, but we don't see much planning or communication. It's just paper thin.
Like a relationship that falls apart, those minor flaws that we happily overlook at first, eventually become clawing irritations that make you want to scream. Sadly, this series and I have now separated.
So, if you like superhero tales, give this series a try. It may be for you... or maybe not.
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