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The Love Interest #1
The Love Interest
A swoony, speculative and entirely electric YA debut with a humorous and satirical take on the conventions of the superhero-verse, for fans of Michelle Quach's Not Here To Be Liked and the Marvel Universe.
Seventeen-year-old Jenna Ray has just been saved by the world's newest superhero, Blaze. And, in the eyes of the public, that means one thing: Jenna Ray has been cast as the Love Interest.
No. Not happening. Not if Jenna has anything to say about it (even if Blaze is actually quite sweet and cute).
But her plans to defy the HPA (the Heroics and Power Authority) and turn down this new role are thwarted when the Villains begin to take an interest in her and offer a life-changing proposition; become Blaze's Love Interest, while avoiding catching feelings for him, to uncover the HPA's secret plans and find her missing mum.
To make matters even more complicated, just as Jenna starts to embrace her new-found career, she discovers she might be more on the side of the superheroes than she ever imagined …
Seventeen-year-old Jenna Ray has just been saved by the world's newest superhero, Blaze. And, in the eyes of the public, that means one thing: Jenna Ray has been cast as the Love Interest.
No. Not happening. Not if Jenna has anything to say about it (even if Blaze is actually quite sweet and cute).
But her plans to defy the HPA (the Heroics and Power Authority) and turn down this new role are thwarted when the Villains begin to take an interest in her and offer a life-changing proposition; become Blaze's Love Interest, while avoiding catching feelings for him, to uncover the HPA's secret plans and find her missing mum.
To make matters even more complicated, just as Jenna starts to embrace her new-found career, she discovers she might be more on the side of the superheroes than she ever imagined …
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2024
34 people are currently reading
5027 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
October 10, 2024
I really wanted to love this book, but it just didn’t hit the mark for me.
January 19, 2024
If the Amazon Prime TV show The Boys was a YA romcom it would be this
September 3, 2024
“I’m not in love with him. It would be like falling in love with a mermaid. Actually, it would be worse. At least there are no reporters under the sea”
Sooo marvel/disneys’ incredibles meets real life issues in a lighthearted way meets hero x villain.
This was literally so. Much. Fun. Omg I actually loved this. I was initially actually going to rate it a 5 stars, but since I’ve finished it I’ve not once thought abt the story, and that bumped it down big time.
the characters —> were all just soo funny like blaze is such an icon and just a cutie patootie and really refreshing if you look at all those grumpy book bfs nowadays. I wish there was more dialogue with him. Jenny ray is just such a girlboss and I’m just here for it.
the plot/ worldbuilding —> it was such easy worldbuilding, but I literally loved it so much. It really brought my inner child up with all the superhero, superpowers and villain stuff. The story is just so unique and if you want a silly goofy time I really suggest you try it out. Also, A LOT happens in this book in a short amount of time, so it will keep you at the edge of your seat at all times!!! There literally is like a building on fire that needs to be saved in the first like 30ish pages.
Also, bonus points for the huge writing😌
—————————————-
preread ---> I've literally heard nothing abt this book but the premise sounds sm fun!
Sooo marvel/disneys’ incredibles meets real life issues in a lighthearted way meets hero x villain.
This was literally so. Much. Fun. Omg I actually loved this. I was initially actually going to rate it a 5 stars, but since I’ve finished it I’ve not once thought abt the story, and that bumped it down big time.
the characters —> were all just soo funny like blaze is such an icon and just a cutie patootie and really refreshing if you look at all those grumpy book bfs nowadays. I wish there was more dialogue with him. Jenny ray is just such a girlboss and I’m just here for it.
the plot/ worldbuilding —> it was such easy worldbuilding, but I literally loved it so much. It really brought my inner child up with all the superhero, superpowers and villain stuff. The story is just so unique and if you want a silly goofy time I really suggest you try it out. Also, A LOT happens in this book in a short amount of time, so it will keep you at the edge of your seat at all times!!! There literally is like a building on fire that needs to be saved in the first like 30ish pages.
Also, bonus points for the huge writing😌
—————————————-
preread ---> I've literally heard nothing abt this book but the premise sounds sm fun!
November 22, 2024
one prophecy, one hero & one love interest. the only catch? she doesn’t want to be his love interest, all she wants is her mom and her old life back
thank you so much to helen comerford, bloomsbury publishing and colored pages book tours for this opportunity to be part of the book tour! check out my instagram post, to see some edits i made for this book <3 the love interest book edits
[★★★★ ½]
Saving my life does not give Blaze the right to tear it to pieces. I take the box of tea from my sister’s hands. “Don’t worry, Megan. I’ll destroy him myself.”
idk why this book isn’t hyped up enough, cause this book DESERVES ALL THE LOVE!!! JENNA DESERVES ALL THE LOVE AND ADMIRATION!!
i started this book blindly, and ngl it took me a bit to figure out the basic world-building (but that probably my slow brain after all the sleep deprivation 🥲) but once i got the hang of it, this book became a marvel movie in my head. (the way my graphics don’t do it justice even by half because pinterest sucks sometimes 😭)
this book was written for the girls burning with female rage, who have had enough of the patriarchy and their stupid lil propaganda. each time king ron (yes what a stupid name for a stupid guy) showed up and opened his mouth to spew some nonsense, i had to remind myself that he was thankfully fictional (but then realized reality is also somehow the same 😔)
ᯓ★ jenna is my fav female character from a superhero-esque book. she fought for her beliefs from start to end, and it was so beautiful to see her transform spectacularly into the person she is. and her relationship with her friend, joy and sister, megan was the most wholesome yet realistic portrayal ever! the fights, the silent treatment, the emotions 🥹💜✨ oh and the way anxiety was represented!!
ᯓ★ then there’s our blaze, and boy do i love this awkward lil guy. and tbh i cannot blame him for what he is, cause that’s what he was made to believe from a very young age, and im so glad to see his character arc in the end 🥹💗💗
ᯓ★ them together was fire! i’ll be honest in the beginning i did not know if this was a love triangle or what, but im so glad whatever path this took was messy but not because of them, but their situations. i mean (slight spoiler: they were kissing and boy floated up to the ceiling with her!! akskskkskskskljjj 🤭💘✨)
anyways the love interest is out on nov 12!!! miss helen you have a new fan 😆🎀
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incoherent review: OH MY GOD!!! THIS BOOK IS PHENOMENAL!!! JENNA, YOU ARE MY NEW FAV CHARACTER FROM A SUPERHERO UNIVERSE 💗💗💗 ALSO IS THERE A BOOK 2??!??!!?!! 👀 full rtc. 4.5/5 stars
thank you so much to helen comerford, bloomsbury publishing and colored pages book tours for this opportunity to be part of the book tour! check out my instagram post, to see some edits i made for this book <3 the love interest book edits
[★★★★ ½]
Saving my life does not give Blaze the right to tear it to pieces. I take the box of tea from my sister’s hands. “Don’t worry, Megan. I’ll destroy him myself.”
idk why this book isn’t hyped up enough, cause this book DESERVES ALL THE LOVE!!! JENNA DESERVES ALL THE LOVE AND ADMIRATION!!
i started this book blindly, and ngl it took me a bit to figure out the basic world-building (but that probably my slow brain after all the sleep deprivation 🥲) but once i got the hang of it, this book became a marvel movie in my head. (the way my graphics don’t do it justice even by half because pinterest sucks sometimes 😭)
this book was written for the girls burning with female rage, who have had enough of the patriarchy and their stupid lil propaganda. each time king ron (yes what a stupid name for a stupid guy) showed up and opened his mouth to spew some nonsense, i had to remind myself that he was thankfully fictional (but then realized reality is also somehow the same 😔)
ᯓ★ jenna is my fav female character from a superhero-esque book. she fought for her beliefs from start to end, and it was so beautiful to see her transform spectacularly into the person she is. and her relationship with her friend, joy and sister, megan was the most wholesome yet realistic portrayal ever! the fights, the silent treatment, the emotions 🥹💜✨ oh and the way anxiety was represented!!
ᯓ★ then there’s our blaze, and boy do i love this awkward lil guy. and tbh i cannot blame him for what he is, cause that’s what he was made to believe from a very young age, and im so glad to see his character arc in the end 🥹💗💗
ᯓ★ them together was fire! i’ll be honest in the beginning i did not know if this was a love triangle or what, but im so glad whatever path this took was messy but not because of them, but their situations. i mean (slight spoiler: they were kissing and boy floated up to the ceiling with her!! akskskkskskskljjj 🤭💘✨)
anyways the love interest is out on nov 12!!! miss helen you have a new fan 😆🎀
-----------------------
incoherent review: OH MY GOD!!! THIS BOOK IS PHENOMENAL!!! JENNA, YOU ARE MY NEW FAV CHARACTER FROM A SUPERHERO UNIVERSE 💗💗💗 ALSO IS THERE A BOOK 2??!??!!?!! 👀 full rtc. 4.5/5 stars
October 13, 2024
Headlines:
Patriarchal, patronising society
Superhero males
Young female power
This story was a contrast in context. On the one hand it was a enemies-to-romance story, YA style. On the other hand there were rich themes about this patriarchal society where men with powers (not women) saved the day.
Jenna Ray was saved from a burning building by Blaze, a new superhero. Immediately, the media typecast her as 'the love interest'. Understandably, she didn't want to be seen this way and Blaze came across as somewhat egotistical in relation to all this. Was he oblivious or brain-washed? I wasn't entirely sure until later on. The feminist themes of the story were my favourite aspect but the romance didn't really bite me.
The plot was a little rambling at times and I found it to be a pacey read. I did appreciate the twists in the plot regarding powers in men and women. I found the villians and the heroes both irritating. Equally Jenna Ray and Blaze had their moments of frustration.
The story wrapped up well and overall, this was a likeable read. Thank you to Bloomsbury for the review copy.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Patriarchal, patronising society
Superhero males
Young female power
This story was a contrast in context. On the one hand it was a enemies-to-romance story, YA style. On the other hand there were rich themes about this patriarchal society where men with powers (not women) saved the day.
Jenna Ray was saved from a burning building by Blaze, a new superhero. Immediately, the media typecast her as 'the love interest'. Understandably, she didn't want to be seen this way and Blaze came across as somewhat egotistical in relation to all this. Was he oblivious or brain-washed? I wasn't entirely sure until later on. The feminist themes of the story were my favourite aspect but the romance didn't really bite me.
The plot was a little rambling at times and I found it to be a pacey read. I did appreciate the twists in the plot regarding powers in men and women. I found the villians and the heroes both irritating. Equally Jenna Ray and Blaze had their moments of frustration.
The story wrapped up well and overall, this was a likeable read. Thank you to Bloomsbury for the review copy.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
February 24, 2024
"I honestly don't know how anyone with a cervix can bear to speak to that patriarchal ball bag."
It's lines like this, that I live for!
Comerford has written a brilliant YA debut full of wit, wholesome romance and wonderful characters. The superhero, slightly dystopian world she has created is well thought out, feels realistic and I can't wait to explore more of it (as a sequel is hinted at.)
I loved the plot, it was a fast paced action packed read, full of twists and turns. I love a superhero story and this didn't disappoint, it had everything you'd want but still felt fresh and fun.
The characters were equally developed and Jenna was a force to be reckoned with. I do adore a strong female character. I do hope that a sequel is coming because I'd love to see more from Jenna and her sister, the female characters in this book were brilliantly written. The relationships, be they familial, friendship or something more were all excellently portrayed with a sense of lovable reality.
If you love superheroes, prophesied apocalypses and sweet teen romance (think The Boys but PG) then this is the read for you.
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury YA for the eARC.
It's lines like this, that I live for!
Comerford has written a brilliant YA debut full of wit, wholesome romance and wonderful characters. The superhero, slightly dystopian world she has created is well thought out, feels realistic and I can't wait to explore more of it (as a sequel is hinted at.)
I loved the plot, it was a fast paced action packed read, full of twists and turns. I love a superhero story and this didn't disappoint, it had everything you'd want but still felt fresh and fun.
The characters were equally developed and Jenna was a force to be reckoned with. I do adore a strong female character. I do hope that a sequel is coming because I'd love to see more from Jenna and her sister, the female characters in this book were brilliantly written. The relationships, be they familial, friendship or something more were all excellently portrayed with a sense of lovable reality.
If you love superheroes, prophesied apocalypses and sweet teen romance (think The Boys but PG) then this is the read for you.
Thank you NetGalley and Bloomsbury YA for the eARC.
July 19, 2025
THANK THE LORD THAT'S OVER!
2.75⭐️
This book had a very unique story, but not my cup of tea, sadly.
I would have DNFed less than halfway through if this wasn't my book club book!!
2.75⭐️
This book had a very unique story, but not my cup of tea, sadly.
I would have DNFed less than halfway through if this wasn't my book club book!!
September 24, 2024
4.5 Stars
This book was so fun, and it was such a surprise. It definitely isn't my usual read. I'm not really that big on superhero media, but the voice here is so strong that I definitely found myself invested. This book plays on tropes and stands on the shoulders of some really strong characters--in other words, I highly recommend it!
I've got more to say here, but that's for my full review, publishing November 29, 2024 at Gateway Reviews. Stop by if you get the chance!
Note: I was provided with an ARC by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.
This book was so fun, and it was such a surprise. It definitely isn't my usual read. I'm not really that big on superhero media, but the voice here is so strong that I definitely found myself invested. This book plays on tropes and stands on the shoulders of some really strong characters--in other words, I highly recommend it!
I've got more to say here, but that's for my full review, publishing November 29, 2024 at Gateway Reviews. Stop by if you get the chance!
Note: I was provided with an ARC by the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions here are my own.
June 25, 2025
I'm a sucker for superhero books!
This young adult novel follows a teen girl who finds herself the love interest of a superhero and thrust into the spotlight.
I thought this was a fun adventurous novel. The plot and pacing was a little messy but overall I loved the messaging and world building! Although I do think Jenna was more in love and had more chemistry with Okorie that when she finally starts liking Blaze I still couldn't tell if she was faking it or not.
I will still be definitely reading the next book to complete my collection and the story!
This young adult novel follows a teen girl who finds herself the love interest of a superhero and thrust into the spotlight.
I thought this was a fun adventurous novel. The plot and pacing was a little messy but overall I loved the messaging and world building! Although I do think Jenna was more in love and had more chemistry with Okorie that when she finally starts liking Blaze I still couldn't tell if she was faking it or not.
I will still be definitely reading the next book to complete my collection and the story!
December 5, 2024
An entertaining YA fantasy debut that subverts the traditional superhero megaverse turning an anxious, reluctant 'love interest' into a hero. I thought this was fresh, fun and full of great mental health and anxiety rep. Good on audio and highly recommended for fans of The extraordinaries series by TJ Klune!
January 19, 2025
DNF @ p79 i have no idea what’s going on but I know I don’t like it
March 22, 2025
This is my second🥈 superhero romance book, and honestly, I was hoping it wouldn’t disappoint like the last one… but here we are. 🤦🏽♀️
First off, Jennaaaa⚠️…, what is your problem?? The whole “am I the only girl in the world🏳️ who would kind of hate the hero who rescued🔆 her” thing was giving pick me🐇 vibes. Hate is a strong word. What did he even do to make you hate him?? Blink👁️👄👁️ in your direction?? 😭
Her anger toward Blaze feels so forced and unreasonable. Like, she made a whole vow to destroy him?? 🤨 For what?? Did he murder her family?? Ruin her life?? No, not really?? Then be so for real right now. This man just showed up and she’s acting like he committed a crime. 🤡
Also, this whole “Blaze is stalking her” WHERE?? WHEN?? WHAT?? WHY?? WHO?? AND HOW?? 🤔 If anyone is stalking her, it’s the media. If anything, Blaze is just there, confused as hell, probably wondering why this girl hates🔥 him so much. 😂
And then Blaze just randomly runs away the second time… WHY. WHY DID HE DO THAT. NO EXPLANATION. JUST GONE. 🏃♂️💨
And can we talk about how everyone is screaming🫁🗣️ in this book??? When the text gets bigger and bold just to show someone is shouting, it gets so annoying. ✋ Just use caps lock and exclamation marks like a normal person, please.
Now, about the whole villains thing—okay, I get that they aren’t actually bad guys🫂, which makes sense, but the book just didn’t convey their good or bad❤️🩹 intentions well.
And the romance💋?? Where was it?? 😭 She “hates” him, but why?? If anything, HE should hate HER because all he has done is try to help while she uses him for her own gain. 🤦🏽♀️ And Blaze doesn’t even seem to like her?? 💀 Like, sir, are you even trying?? (At least in the first half of the book.)
The family drama also annoyed me. They’re upset about Jenna doing what she wants and then having to deal👥 with it, but it’s her life. 🤷🏽♀️ If it’s that much of a problem, stay away.
And this whole idea that the hero’s love interest needs training… yeah, I don’t buy it. 🙄 The hero is their own person, so why does their partner need to “play a part”?? I know it’s for the media, but I still don’t agree with it.
The more I read, the less I enjoyed it. 😩 And don’t even get me started on Emily. What was she doing there? At first, I thought she was completely useless, then something finally happens and I’m like… oh, so she does have a point. But until then?? WASTE OF SPACE. 🫥
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC 👏🏽 ❤️🩹🐇
First off, Jennaaaa⚠️…, what is your problem?? The whole “am I the only girl in the world🏳️ who would kind of hate the hero who rescued🔆 her” thing was giving pick me🐇 vibes. Hate is a strong word. What did he even do to make you hate him?? Blink👁️👄👁️ in your direction?? 😭
Her anger toward Blaze feels so forced and unreasonable. Like, she made a whole vow to destroy him?? 🤨 For what?? Did he murder her family?? Ruin her life?? No, not really?? Then be so for real right now. This man just showed up and she’s acting like he committed a crime. 🤡
Also, this whole “Blaze is stalking her” WHERE?? WHEN?? WHAT?? WHY?? WHO?? AND HOW?? 🤔 If anyone is stalking her, it’s the media. If anything, Blaze is just there, confused as hell, probably wondering why this girl hates🔥 him so much. 😂
And then Blaze just randomly runs away the second time… WHY. WHY DID HE DO THAT. NO EXPLANATION. JUST GONE. 🏃♂️💨
And can we talk about how everyone is screaming🫁🗣️ in this book??? When the text gets bigger and bold just to show someone is shouting, it gets so annoying. ✋ Just use caps lock and exclamation marks like a normal person, please.
Now, about the whole villains thing—okay, I get that they aren’t actually bad guys🫂, which makes sense, but the book just didn’t convey their good or bad❤️🩹 intentions well.
And the romance💋?? Where was it?? 😭 She “hates” him, but why?? If anything, HE should hate HER because all he has done is try to help while she uses him for her own gain. 🤦🏽♀️ And Blaze doesn’t even seem to like her?? 💀 Like, sir, are you even trying?? (At least in the first half of the book.)
The family drama also annoyed me. They’re upset about Jenna doing what she wants and then having to deal👥 with it, but it’s her life. 🤷🏽♀️ If it’s that much of a problem, stay away.
And this whole idea that the hero’s love interest needs training… yeah, I don’t buy it. 🙄 The hero is their own person, so why does their partner need to “play a part”?? I know it’s for the media, but I still don’t agree with it.
The more I read, the less I enjoyed it. 😩 And don’t even get me started on Emily. What was she doing there? At first, I thought she was completely useless, then something finally happens and I’m like… oh, so she does have a point. But until then?? WASTE OF SPACE. 🫥
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC 👏🏽 ❤️🩹🐇
April 6, 2025
Very fun 💥
This was exactly what it looks like it would be. It’s like The Boys mixed with The Incredibles but YA with teens and a little romance. There’s heroes, villains, and prophecies.
It was so much fun the entire time. It’s very fast paced and adventurous. There’s a lot of humor and action.
Jenna was amazing. I love that this is a girl power kind of book. She’s more than just The Love Interest and I love that. Blaze was a cutie too. He was so sweet. I loved all the characters and it was a fun ride to figure out where this book would go.
I also want to give a shout out to the unique writing format. It added to the superhero-ness of it all. I really enjoyed it.
I’m excited for a book two!
This would be a nice book for young readers. I would probably let my almost 12 year old read it except she doesn’t like to read any romance yet 🤪
This was exactly what it looks like it would be. It’s like The Boys mixed with The Incredibles but YA with teens and a little romance. There’s heroes, villains, and prophecies.
It was so much fun the entire time. It’s very fast paced and adventurous. There’s a lot of humor and action.
Jenna was amazing. I love that this is a girl power kind of book. She’s more than just The Love Interest and I love that. Blaze was a cutie too. He was so sweet. I loved all the characters and it was a fun ride to figure out where this book would go.
I also want to give a shout out to the unique writing format. It added to the superhero-ness of it all. I really enjoyed it.
I’m excited for a book two!
This would be a nice book for young readers. I would probably let my almost 12 year old read it except she doesn’t like to read any romance yet 🤪
April 30, 2024
Gimme the sequel neoooooooow!
First off, thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author Helen Comerford for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the how unique this story was - a twist on the whole superhero's Love Interest, and Jenna Ray is easily one of my favourite MC's! She gives as good as she gets and she's not your typical helpless Mary sue. If you're a fan of Marvel or DC then you'll love this one, trust me, stop reading this review and get your hands on a copy.
I will say though, I wish the book took place over a longer period of time. Like I get the joke is the superhero and the love interest basically have the rest of their lives planned out after the first "meet cute", but this events of this book happened over literally
I can't wait to see where this story goes next - SEQUEL! SEQUEL! SEQUEL!
First off, thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author Helen Comerford for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the how unique this story was - a twist on the whole superhero's Love Interest, and Jenna Ray is easily one of my favourite MC's! She gives as good as she gets and she's not your typical helpless Mary sue. If you're a fan of Marvel or DC then you'll love this one, trust me, stop reading this review and get your hands on a copy.
I will say though, I wish the book took place over a longer period of time. Like I get the joke is the superhero and the love interest basically have the rest of their lives planned out after the first "meet cute", but this events of this book happened over literally
I can't wait to see where this story goes next - SEQUEL! SEQUEL! SEQUEL!
March 20, 2024
A very different twist on a superhero story. Wonderfully constructed, with snark and an entertaining young and clever female lead. The story made me think it was one thing, then became so much more as it changed tack. Really enjoyed this one. Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing PLC, (Uk & ANZ) and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
Read
August 8, 2025DNF at 20% I just couldn’t get into this which sucks because I really wanted to.
January 17, 2025
No one wanted to love this more than me, a superhero enthusiast. I loved the IDEA of this book, it was interesting and the world building was cool and I loved the concept of token roles given to people in the superhero genre. Unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The pacing started off very slow at the beginning which isn't really a bad thing but it was so slow and then at the end just ended so quickly. Like we spend a reasonable amount of time with her family in the beginning but by the end we hardly see them. It's one of those "the villains are really the good guys and the heroes suck" stories that are now not really subversive and I don't even mind that it was like that but the development just wasn't there for me. Again, great concept but wobbled on execution.
August 31, 2025
The Heroics and Power Authority (HPA) is the organization that tracks superpowers, and this superhero world is out of this world. I listened to a copy on Libby and really enjoyed the narration.
When Jenna is rescued by Blaze, there is a push for her to become his love interest. The powers of these characters are fun and invigorating, but there are some good-and-evil twists that kept me on my toes.
There is a lot to love in this book, and I especially appreciated the anxiety rep. It was fun to see such strong leads as they navigated through expectations and finding themselves. The wit, romance, characters, and action make the whole story a delight.
Content: mild romance; mild action/adventure
*I borrowed an audio copy through Libby*
When Jenna is rescued by Blaze, there is a push for her to become his love interest. The powers of these characters are fun and invigorating, but there are some good-and-evil twists that kept me on my toes.
There is a lot to love in this book, and I especially appreciated the anxiety rep. It was fun to see such strong leads as they navigated through expectations and finding themselves. The wit, romance, characters, and action make the whole story a delight.
Content: mild romance; mild action/adventure
*I borrowed an audio copy through Libby*
May 21, 2024
Firstly thank you to the publisher for sending me a proof copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fun read, I adore my marvel movies and tv shows so when this was announced I was VERY excited.
I've also seen this book compared to The Boys which I love and can definitely see a resemblance (if it became a family friendly show)😉
This is definitely aimed at a younger audience but there's something for everyone of all ages to enjoy I think. I especially loved how this was written physically on the page. There are times when different fonts and text sizes are used to portay intense emotions or loud volume etc its a brilliant idea, very clever!
Im excited to see the return of Jenna Ray!
This was a fun read, I adore my marvel movies and tv shows so when this was announced I was VERY excited.
I've also seen this book compared to The Boys which I love and can definitely see a resemblance (if it became a family friendly show)😉
This is definitely aimed at a younger audience but there's something for everyone of all ages to enjoy I think. I especially loved how this was written physically on the page. There are times when different fonts and text sizes are used to portay intense emotions or loud volume etc its a brilliant idea, very clever!
Im excited to see the return of Jenna Ray!
July 29, 2024
Went into this book completely blind so it was easy to follow and read which was a nice change of pace. Even though this is a YA book, it felt very much intended for a younger audience given the varying media formats and large fonts (which oftentimes was used to emphasize the mental health focus which I personally loved the authentic portrayals of panic attacks). One of the highlights of this book was the empowering female relationships surrounding the main character. I thought the satiric and comedic moments often tied together with these female characters which made me think more about the underlying message The Love Interest is sending besides a cartoonesque superhero/villain universe. Overall, I thought the memorable moments were between the female characters and their dynamics rather than the love story itself so if you're looking for a cute romcom moment, then maybe this isn't for you.
September 16, 2025
This was a lot of fun. There were a few spots that felt like plot holes, so I may go back and see if I missed a bit of information.
I do have to say that the romance was not the focus of the book, and I think people need to realize this going in.
I do have to say that the romance was not the focus of the book, and I think people need to realize this going in.
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November 18, 2024dnf @50ish%-
just a little too juvenile for me and not particularly intriguing- realizing i technically read it as an arc cause i bought it in england like 3 months ago and it just came out lol
just a little too juvenile for me and not particularly intriguing- realizing i technically read it as an arc cause i bought it in england like 3 months ago and it just came out lol
dnf
November 26, 2024dnf at 14% - I started it and never picked it back up
July 18, 2025
Finished this book as an audiobook from Spotify. Loved this British superhero story. Loved the different spin and twists this story had. I can’t wait for the next story with Jenna and Blaze. Plus, all the other characters. A girl can be her own hero and save the world. This story proved that.🫶💞
February 22, 2025
this was actually pretty interesting! a little cringey at times but i enjoyed the plot and the characters. blaze definitely grew on me 🤭 hopefully there is a sequel! the ending seemed to set it up for one, so we’ll see!
June 11, 2024
This is such a fun read - it’s like Marvel but without the withering girl who can’t do anything but squeal and faint.
30 pages in and I was crying laughing at Jenna’s sister Megan saying “I honestly don’t know how anyone with a cervix can bear to speak to that patriarchal ball bag.”😂😂 and I was like “YES!!!” 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
It’s so different from any other superhero type romance book and in a brilliant way. Most people know I’m not one for the typical romance books which is why this one piqued my interest.
This will definitely appeal to the younger end of the YA demographic and in particular the young women in showing them a strong female character within the superhero storyline.
#TheLoveInterest published last week so you can buy it from wherever you get your books right now and it would make an excellent addition to any young library 😍
Thanks to @bloomsburypublishing for sending me a copy
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30 pages in and I was crying laughing at Jenna’s sister Megan saying “I honestly don’t know how anyone with a cervix can bear to speak to that patriarchal ball bag.”😂😂 and I was like “YES!!!” 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽
It’s so different from any other superhero type romance book and in a brilliant way. Most people know I’m not one for the typical romance books which is why this one piqued my interest.
This will definitely appeal to the younger end of the YA demographic and in particular the young women in showing them a strong female character within the superhero storyline.
#TheLoveInterest published last week so you can buy it from wherever you get your books right now and it would make an excellent addition to any young library 😍
Thanks to @bloomsburypublishing for sending me a copy
Ad|PR
#ReadAndReview #Books #KidsBooks #YABooks #SuperheroBook #YoungAdultBooks #BlackAuthors
May 31, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
4.5 stars
THE LOVE INTEREST is a funny, sharp-eyed take on the misogyny in the superhero genre.
Superhero movies, particularly the earlier ones, tend to cast women as the helpless love interest who needs saving, and this book takes that concept and runs with it.
There is pressure on Jenna to love him just because he saved her first in his career as if being a good person deserves a romantic reward. The line from Blaze to the effect of "people won't think I can be a superhero if the woman I saved doesn't like me" perfectly summed up the toxic masculinity that can sometimes feel baked into the genre. There are lessons for Jenna not on how to avoid being captured by a villain, but how to look alluring and helplessly innocent as she's being threatened.
It was such a nice way of breaking down the real life sexism that is behind these genre tropes, exposing how passive women are often made to be in these situations. But the book flips that by having Jenna, a young Black girl, often do the saving, challenging all the stereotypes about what a hero looks like.
The book also explores the darker side of superhero organisations, the regrettable losses who are acceptable casualties for the superheroes to shine. The town is in danger from the prophecy but the bigger concern is "who is the hero going to be?" Not to mention the steps the HPA go to in order to ensure their continuing power.
While exploring all of this, the book is funny and looks at first crushes and romantic relationships as well as family bonds and friendships. I loved that Megan and Joy and Jenna's parents get more page time than Blaze. Their relationships are just as, if not more, important to Jenna, with a profound impact on who she is, and that shines through. Jenna, Megan, and Joy are a powerful trio of women who have each other's best interests at heart.
In all, this is a great debut and I look forward to the next book.
4.5 stars
THE LOVE INTEREST is a funny, sharp-eyed take on the misogyny in the superhero genre.
Superhero movies, particularly the earlier ones, tend to cast women as the helpless love interest who needs saving, and this book takes that concept and runs with it.
There is pressure on Jenna to love him just because he saved her first in his career as if being a good person deserves a romantic reward. The line from Blaze to the effect of "people won't think I can be a superhero if the woman I saved doesn't like me" perfectly summed up the toxic masculinity that can sometimes feel baked into the genre. There are lessons for Jenna not on how to avoid being captured by a villain, but how to look alluring and helplessly innocent as she's being threatened.
It was such a nice way of breaking down the real life sexism that is behind these genre tropes, exposing how passive women are often made to be in these situations. But the book flips that by having Jenna, a young Black girl, often do the saving, challenging all the stereotypes about what a hero looks like.
The book also explores the darker side of superhero organisations, the regrettable losses who are acceptable casualties for the superheroes to shine. The town is in danger from the prophecy but the bigger concern is "who is the hero going to be?" Not to mention the steps the HPA go to in order to ensure their continuing power.
While exploring all of this, the book is funny and looks at first crushes and romantic relationships as well as family bonds and friendships. I loved that Megan and Joy and Jenna's parents get more page time than Blaze. Their relationships are just as, if not more, important to Jenna, with a profound impact on who she is, and that shines through. Jenna, Megan, and Joy are a powerful trio of women who have each other's best interests at heart.
In all, this is a great debut and I look forward to the next book.
June 18, 2024
Full review on the YA Book JAM Podcast
October 15, 2024
I like twists on tropes that take you on a proper journey, and superhero stories that aren't all about the action. The Love Interest ticked all those boxes, and managed to be fun at the same time! It was also a super easy read, so I got through it fairly quickly. Bring on the sequel!
October 7, 2024
A really good listen.
The FMC is relatable, and has an interesting head-space. There was a moment where I thought she was about to do something stupid that would blow up in her face. Sort of a TSTL moment, I feared. But I just needed to have trust in her.
The MMC was nice too, though, you don't spend that much time really getting to know him.
The world is interesting. Some people are born with powers, and they must be registered and "tagged". But apparently only men get strong powers...? Remains to be discovered.
I like how the story engages with gender and expectations.
The narrator of the audiobook did a great job too!
All in all, I recommend this if you need a cozy listen.
The FMC is relatable, and has an interesting head-space. There was a moment where I thought she was about to do something stupid that would blow up in her face. Sort of a TSTL moment, I feared. But I just needed to have trust in her.
The MMC was nice too, though, you don't spend that much time really getting to know him.
The world is interesting. Some people are born with powers, and they must be registered and "tagged". But apparently only men get strong powers...? Remains to be discovered.
I like how the story engages with gender and expectations.
The narrator of the audiobook did a great job too!
All in all, I recommend this if you need a cozy listen.
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