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The Capes #1
Seductive Powers
This title has been previously published and has been re-edited for your enjoyment.
Wendy Warner is a bit of an oddball. Raised in an orphanage, she’s found solace and friendship by watching the television show, Space Adventures, and participating in its fan clubs. Twice a month, Wendy comes to work dressed in a costume from the show that she wears to charity events. She’s been able to ignore the looks of distain from many of her coworkers, but when the president of the company gazes at her with something more, she knows she’s in deep.
Draco Powers rather likes the way the uniform hugs all her curves in the just the right places. He’s also a real-life Guardian who told the world that, yes, some people had superhuman abilities, but, no, they wouldn’t work for free or without health insurance. Some people refer to him with derision as the “Capitalist Guardian.” While Draco doesn’t care what he’s called, he’s also being hunted by a group called the Organization, whose motives are unclear and yet still cause death and destruction wherever they go.
The Organization has decided that Draco’s biggest weakness is the way he cares about his employees and has chosen Wendy as their next target. To save her, Draco will have to come to terms with his real feelings and the reason he’s long resisted complicated relationships…but he’s running out of time.
Wendy Warner is a bit of an oddball. Raised in an orphanage, she’s found solace and friendship by watching the television show, Space Adventures, and participating in its fan clubs. Twice a month, Wendy comes to work dressed in a costume from the show that she wears to charity events. She’s been able to ignore the looks of distain from many of her coworkers, but when the president of the company gazes at her with something more, she knows she’s in deep.
Draco Powers rather likes the way the uniform hugs all her curves in the just the right places. He’s also a real-life Guardian who told the world that, yes, some people had superhuman abilities, but, no, they wouldn’t work for free or without health insurance. Some people refer to him with derision as the “Capitalist Guardian.” While Draco doesn’t care what he’s called, he’s also being hunted by a group called the Organization, whose motives are unclear and yet still cause death and destruction wherever they go.
The Organization has decided that Draco’s biggest weakness is the way he cares about his employees and has chosen Wendy as their next target. To save her, Draco will have to come to terms with his real feelings and the reason he’s long resisted complicated relationships…but he’s running out of time.
135 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 2, 2010
2 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Royce
193 books1,430 followersAuthor of science fiction, fantasy, and the paranormal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
November 14, 2013
Now, I would love to write one of those reviews with all the gifs, because that would most accurately describe how totally in love with this book I am.
But I'm not just in love with the book.
I love the characters.
I love the plot.
I love the smexy.
The whole thing had me, hook line and sinker. I was up until 2AM reading this, not even realizing it was 2AM I was under the impression that it was still 10PM. Then I got all sucked into the smexy scene, after loads of desperate anticipation for the two lead characters, and my DANG TOES CURLED and I squealed, successfully waking up my husband and being sent to bed!
How dare he, right!
Aside from all the gushing and the cheek. I have to say that Rebecca wrote a really strong story. It was realistic and sort of reminded me of The Avengers, you know the whole 'super heroes can have hang ups and issues too'? I felt that the story was so well formulated the world building was so subtle that it eased me right into this world were you can pay for a hero so to speak. It was vivid, reliable, and had me panting for more.
The characters were brilliant. They had just the right amount of angst and the female lead had the right amount of smart and strong to make me feel like I could step in her shoes in my reading fantasy world.
Let me tell you, by the end I wanted me a Draco and Ace!
I can't wait to read book two!
So, if you like super-heroes, if you like smexy, if you like men that fly! And if you like your females leads strong yet vulnerable at the right times--this is the series for you!
*I received a copy of this book via Fated Desires Publishing LLC in exchange for an honest review*
But I'm not just in love with the book.
I love the characters.
I love the plot.
I love the smexy.
The whole thing had me, hook line and sinker. I was up until 2AM reading this, not even realizing it was 2AM I was under the impression that it was still 10PM. Then I got all sucked into the smexy scene, after loads of desperate anticipation for the two lead characters, and my DANG TOES CURLED and I squealed, successfully waking up my husband and being sent to bed!
How dare he, right!
Aside from all the gushing and the cheek. I have to say that Rebecca wrote a really strong story. It was realistic and sort of reminded me of The Avengers, you know the whole 'super heroes can have hang ups and issues too'? I felt that the story was so well formulated the world building was so subtle that it eased me right into this world were you can pay for a hero so to speak. It was vivid, reliable, and had me panting for more.
The characters were brilliant. They had just the right amount of angst and the female lead had the right amount of smart and strong to make me feel like I could step in her shoes in my reading fantasy world.
Let me tell you, by the end I wanted me a Draco and Ace!
I can't wait to read book two!
So, if you like super-heroes, if you like smexy, if you like men that fly! And if you like your females leads strong yet vulnerable at the right times--this is the series for you!
*I received a copy of this book via Fated Desires Publishing LLC in exchange for an honest review*
February 3, 2015
This is a re-read in audio, my thoughts on the story are pretty much the same, this includes the narration review as well.
Really awesome story! I am not a huge comic book or sci-fi fan, but this book was fantastic!
Wendy is just the sort of gal I like to read. She is sassy, brassy and comfortable in her own skin. Despite her past she finds something to believe in and never hesitates to be herself, regardless of what others think. I also loved her loyalty, she doesn't have a lot in her life but she is fiercely protective of the things she cares about.
Draco is definitely a strong silent type. He struggles with his choices and in his own way tries to do the right thing. He is often misunderstood in his decisions but I get why he makes them. I loved his protective streak!
Ms Royce does a wonderful job of crafting a full and dynamic world. She created a beautifully paced story that held lots of detail but never became too techie.
The steam factor here was rather low, only a couple sexy scenes to melt your ears. It was really more about the meat of the story, she delivered a hearty meal!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Buck J. Deat, who I generally liked. I really enjoyed his pace and the energy he put into the read. There are a few voices that were off to me, Kyle is way more Jersey than I expected and Ace does not sound appealing. I can let it go about Kyle, but Ace is a big issue because he is the hero of the next book. I really hope he sounds better in his book, I do not wish to a whole book of a hero who sounds nasal and annoying. That really is my only major complaint with this narration.
*Disclosure - I received a copy in exchange for a honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.*
*** If you found this review at all helpful, please take a moment to let me know. I love reading and sharing my opinions with other readers. Thanks for taking the time to read my review! You can see more audiobook reviews on my blog www.eargasmsaudiobookreviews.com ***
Really awesome story! I am not a huge comic book or sci-fi fan, but this book was fantastic!
Wendy is just the sort of gal I like to read. She is sassy, brassy and comfortable in her own skin. Despite her past she finds something to believe in and never hesitates to be herself, regardless of what others think. I also loved her loyalty, she doesn't have a lot in her life but she is fiercely protective of the things she cares about.
Draco is definitely a strong silent type. He struggles with his choices and in his own way tries to do the right thing. He is often misunderstood in his decisions but I get why he makes them. I loved his protective streak!
Ms Royce does a wonderful job of crafting a full and dynamic world. She created a beautifully paced story that held lots of detail but never became too techie.
The steam factor here was rather low, only a couple sexy scenes to melt your ears. It was really more about the meat of the story, she delivered a hearty meal!
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Buck J. Deat, who I generally liked. I really enjoyed his pace and the energy he put into the read. There are a few voices that were off to me, Kyle is way more Jersey than I expected and Ace does not sound appealing. I can let it go about Kyle, but Ace is a big issue because he is the hero of the next book. I really hope he sounds better in his book, I do not wish to a whole book of a hero who sounds nasal and annoying. That really is my only major complaint with this narration.
*Disclosure - I received a copy in exchange for a honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.*
*** If you found this review at all helpful, please take a moment to let me know. I love reading and sharing my opinions with other readers. Thanks for taking the time to read my review! You can see more audiobook reviews on my blog www.eargasmsaudiobookreviews.com ***
December 29, 2013
4.5 Kung- Pow Stars!
Normally I don’t dig comics or superheroes but Seductive Powers was surprisingly an amazing, fun, and enjoyable read for me!!
The author, Rebecca Royce, creates a very clever twist on the whole superhero idea and it was exciting to see it pan out!
Draco, is our awesome superhero and Wendy, is his lovely (and dorky! Lol) assistant who happens to harbor a secret crush on him. But what Wendy does not know is that Draco feels the same way about her.
So, between battling your attraction for each other and trying to figure out who’s out to destroy all of the guardians (or SUPERHEROS as I like to call them) how will think all pan out?
I love loved this book!! It was ingenious and just different from all of the plot lines I’ve come across!!
My two qualms though: both Draco and Wendy’s characterizations are a bit naïve. And, I kind of wished there was more detail towards certain aspects of the plot.
Other than that, a vibrant and engaging story that will draw you in from the beginning!
Normally I don’t dig comics or superheroes but Seductive Powers was surprisingly an amazing, fun, and enjoyable read for me!!
The author, Rebecca Royce, creates a very clever twist on the whole superhero idea and it was exciting to see it pan out!
Draco, is our awesome superhero and Wendy, is his lovely (and dorky! Lol) assistant who happens to harbor a secret crush on him. But what Wendy does not know is that Draco feels the same way about her.
So, between battling your attraction for each other and trying to figure out who’s out to destroy all of the guardians (or SUPERHEROS as I like to call them) how will think all pan out?
I love loved this book!! It was ingenious and just different from all of the plot lines I’ve come across!!
My two qualms though: both Draco and Wendy’s characterizations are a bit naïve. And, I kind of wished there was more detail towards certain aspects of the plot.
Other than that, a vibrant and engaging story that will draw you in from the beginning!
August 27, 2010
There is something about this book that I totally loved. I was short, only 128 pages, but although it is a new series, there isn't a lot of time spent world-building. There really isn't any need, since the world is much the same as ours, only there are also Superheroes that charge you for their services (which makes sense to me!). The plot really worked for me, and I loved the concept of the Superheroes being rather mercenary.
Draco is great - his fear of commitment is justifiable, and you can also really see how he begins to realize his feelings for Wendy. I loved Wendy too! She is not the usual heroine with tons of friends, skinny, and witty. There is one part in the book where she is feeling totally alone, and I was tearing up right there with her.
My only complaint is that I think the villian was defeated too quickly/easily. However, we are dealing with a book of superheroes, so maybe it isn't as unbelievable. I would have liked a few more steamy scenes, but with the length of the book the amount there was made sense and did not overpower the story.
So, yes, it is a short book. However, my emotions were caught up almost immediately with the characters, and the romance actually makes sense unlike in so many other short novels where the H/H meet, have sex, fall in love, and declare their everlasting commitment all within a matter of days.
Draco is great - his fear of commitment is justifiable, and you can also really see how he begins to realize his feelings for Wendy. I loved Wendy too! She is not the usual heroine with tons of friends, skinny, and witty. There is one part in the book where she is feeling totally alone, and I was tearing up right there with her.
My only complaint is that I think the villian was defeated too quickly/easily. However, we are dealing with a book of superheroes, so maybe it isn't as unbelievable. I would have liked a few more steamy scenes, but with the length of the book the amount there was made sense and did not overpower the story.
So, yes, it is a short book. However, my emotions were caught up almost immediately with the characters, and the romance actually makes sense unlike in so many other short novels where the H/H meet, have sex, fall in love, and declare their everlasting commitment all within a matter of days.
June 23, 2015
This book was amazing! I was so excited when I first found it, thinking that I may have finally found a series to turn to when I want to read a superhero romance besides Jennifer Estep's Bigtime series. I kept having to put it off though, until I decided I would read it for my birthday today. Boy, am I glad I did! The Bigtime series is my measuring stick for superhero romances, and so far nothing has come close. This series is its equal! The book is short, but you fly through it, and you're not cheated out of plot at all. Wendy is a slightly clueless heroine, but yet she had her own quiet strength. Draco suffered, on more than one occasion, of having his head up his posterior, but when it mattered he was there. The supporting cast is engaging and entertaining, and though I wanted to know more about Wendy's background, as I kept thinking she would turn out to have some kind of superpower of her own, it wasn't a major detractor from the story. I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in superheroes and romance! It is my hope that the author continues on with the other Guardians in Powers, Inc beyond the three brothers and the series continues for a good while!
June 26, 2020
A fun mix of a Star Trek-like fandom meets superheroes.
I did not enjoy the writing of the sex scene, though, because it infantilized the female lead. that must be sexy to someone, but not this reader! If I would have been reading words, I could have skipped it. As I was listening, I couldn't skip it without the possibility that I missed something.
I did not enjoy the writing of the sex scene, though, because it infantilized the female lead. that must be sexy to someone, but not this reader! If I would have been reading words, I could have skipped it. As I was listening, I couldn't skip it without the possibility that I missed something.
March 16, 2020
This story was not what I expected but in a good way. Wendy really was a dork and I couldn't help but laugh
December 7, 2016
This was ok, but VERY hokey. Moral of the story is almost too much in your face.
November 25, 2013
Originally published at Reading Reality
This is just plain fun. Just way too much fun. And absolutely adorkable.
Now that I’ve read it, I have to say that the worldbuilding makes complete sense. To the point where I can’t get it out of my head. Bruce Wayne inherited a fortune, so he didn’t have to worry about having a day job to support being Batman. Reporters do work alone a lot, or did when the Superman comic was first written, and Lois and Jimmy seem to have covered up for Clark Kent’s absences fairly often.
Tony Stark, well, Iron Man owns his own company, and everyone knows who he is anyway. But if you really are attempting to keep your secret identity secret, and you don your cape and mask every time somebody needs saving, how do you hold down a day job?
Not all superhero backstories come with unlimited funding.
(I don’t know about the rest of you, but if I disappeared every day for a couple of hours, even if it was to save the world, I’d get fired. And that would certainly put a crimp in the family budget.)
So the idea that someone with superpowers might want people to pay for their services makes sense. We pay everyone else for their services, so why not? We even pay for services we really hope we’ll never use, like insurance, so why not pay for “super” services?
But some people would resent it. Then again, some people resent everything.
And the idea that “normal” or non-super people would work in the infrastructure of that superhero corporation and that they would need to be paid and have insurance then follows from the rest. I like my worldbuilding to have internal consistency, which this does.
Very cool.
If you were the personal assistant to a superhero, would you be in danger of developing a crush on your boss? Now that’s the stuff that romances are made of.
And Wendy Warner has a crush on her boss, the head of Powers, Inc., Draco Powers. What Wendy doesn’t know is that her boss is interested in her, too. However, Draco is keeping that feeling to himself, because he’s all too aware that letting it be obvious that he has feelings for anyone makes them a target for his enemies.
It all goes smash when he discovers that just by being his personal assistant, Wendy already has a target painted on her back. His last PA was murdered by his evil nemesis; “The Organization”.
And Wendy is next.
Escape Rating A-: This is just a terrific superhero romance. And a great geek romance too. Two hits in one!
Wendy is the geek, and I love the casting against type. Wendy plays MMORPGs in her spare time (massively multiplayer online role playing games) and her involvement in the cooperative world of the game and in geek culture is a major subplot.
I did figure out at least part of the whodunnit, but not all of it, and it didn’t matter. I was having too much fun with the way things were put together. The reason that Draco’s nemesis was his nemesis turned out to be a bit weak, but again, still too much fun. The story was way more about how the Powers were the Powers and Draco and Wendy’s love story.
In spite of not being a superhero, Wendy gives Draco as good as she gets. She may think he can do better, but she still doesn’t let him walk all over her. And when I say do better, some of that again has to do with her being a “normal” and him having superpowers. He can fly like Superman, that might make a lot of people feel inadequate.
But her job is to keep him organized, and to be his interface with the world. She tells him what to do and he does it. She argues with him on a regular basis. There’s a lot of give and take in their relationship, and it’s good for them both, it just takes a while for them to see it. That’s part of what makes this story work.
They both need to recognize what love is, because neither of them has a whole lot of experience with it. When they finally figure it out, it’s fantastic.
This is just plain fun. Just way too much fun. And absolutely adorkable.
Now that I’ve read it, I have to say that the worldbuilding makes complete sense. To the point where I can’t get it out of my head. Bruce Wayne inherited a fortune, so he didn’t have to worry about having a day job to support being Batman. Reporters do work alone a lot, or did when the Superman comic was first written, and Lois and Jimmy seem to have covered up for Clark Kent’s absences fairly often.
Tony Stark, well, Iron Man owns his own company, and everyone knows who he is anyway. But if you really are attempting to keep your secret identity secret, and you don your cape and mask every time somebody needs saving, how do you hold down a day job?
Not all superhero backstories come with unlimited funding.
(I don’t know about the rest of you, but if I disappeared every day for a couple of hours, even if it was to save the world, I’d get fired. And that would certainly put a crimp in the family budget.)
So the idea that someone with superpowers might want people to pay for their services makes sense. We pay everyone else for their services, so why not? We even pay for services we really hope we’ll never use, like insurance, so why not pay for “super” services?
But some people would resent it. Then again, some people resent everything.
And the idea that “normal” or non-super people would work in the infrastructure of that superhero corporation and that they would need to be paid and have insurance then follows from the rest. I like my worldbuilding to have internal consistency, which this does.
Very cool.
If you were the personal assistant to a superhero, would you be in danger of developing a crush on your boss? Now that’s the stuff that romances are made of.
And Wendy Warner has a crush on her boss, the head of Powers, Inc., Draco Powers. What Wendy doesn’t know is that her boss is interested in her, too. However, Draco is keeping that feeling to himself, because he’s all too aware that letting it be obvious that he has feelings for anyone makes them a target for his enemies.
It all goes smash when he discovers that just by being his personal assistant, Wendy already has a target painted on her back. His last PA was murdered by his evil nemesis; “The Organization”.
And Wendy is next.
Escape Rating A-: This is just a terrific superhero romance. And a great geek romance too. Two hits in one!
Wendy is the geek, and I love the casting against type. Wendy plays MMORPGs in her spare time (massively multiplayer online role playing games) and her involvement in the cooperative world of the game and in geek culture is a major subplot.
I did figure out at least part of the whodunnit, but not all of it, and it didn’t matter. I was having too much fun with the way things were put together. The reason that Draco’s nemesis was his nemesis turned out to be a bit weak, but again, still too much fun. The story was way more about how the Powers were the Powers and Draco and Wendy’s love story.
In spite of not being a superhero, Wendy gives Draco as good as she gets. She may think he can do better, but she still doesn’t let him walk all over her. And when I say do better, some of that again has to do with her being a “normal” and him having superpowers. He can fly like Superman, that might make a lot of people feel inadequate.
But her job is to keep him organized, and to be his interface with the world. She tells him what to do and he does it. She argues with him on a regular basis. There’s a lot of give and take in their relationship, and it’s good for them both, it just takes a while for them to see it. That’s part of what makes this story work.
They both need to recognize what love is, because neither of them has a whole lot of experience with it. When they finally figure it out, it’s fantastic.
November 30, 2013
As a fan of superhero stories I was immediately drawn to this first book in The Capes series where action sequences seamlessly blended with romance to make an exciting and heart-wrenching journey to HEA. Along the way we're introduced to a spunky heroine proud of her geek status and a slew of superheroes humanized through their interactions with humans willing to put their lives on the line to save others. A particular brotherly duo must work together to save the woman they care for, one who sees her as a sister and the other who sees her as his fantasy woman, from a radical group whose hatred of superheroes gains strength every day in numerous pulse-pounding scenes.
Wendy has been Guardian Draco's personal assistant for four years and been fighting her attraction to him all that time. Seeing him with countless models makes her feel unworthy of him though as she's got curves, difficulty in social situations, and an obsession with online gaming and a sci-fi TV show. For a woman brought up in an orphanage the only family she has are through her gaming and TV fandom, so it's a lonely life she leads that often has her wishing for a family of her own. I adored Wendy and her unabashed love of a sci-fi show and its moral code by which she lives by and is inspired by. She's spunky and is a breath of sunshine when things are bleak. She's very naive when it comes to matters of sex and seeing her learn firsthand about the birds and the bees is surprisingly sweet and definitely sexy with the charming Draco being her teacher.
Draco had a harsh childhood with a father who abandoned him and his brother Ace leaving them to fend for themselves. Being a superhero didn't make them rich until Draco founded a company where heroes are for hire. It's a dangerous life he leads with secrecy being very important as he never wants his loved ones put in jeopardy because of him. It's getting harder to keep Wendy at arms length once her life is threatened and bringing her to his home, where no other woman has been, makes him even more attracted to her and desperate to be the truly heroic man she sees in him. Draco is sometimes arrogant but always charming. He's extremely loyal to those he cares about and his brotherly interactions with Ace were playful and heartwarmingly realistic. In his protective mode he felt the need to control everything which led to him becoming consumed by work and weighed down by responsibility that made me ache for him and happy that Wendy could bring comfort and joy to his life.
Though we see a few other secondary superheroes the main focus is on Ace who's boyishly carefree and charming. His abilities aren't always easy to deal with and I found myself wanting to comfort him after his fight scenes. He's loyal to his brother but not afraid to tell him when he's wrong. His protectiveness towards Wendy was sweet and truly sisterly and it was at that moment that I saw a little family forming and it brought a tear to my eye. Complimenting the fast-paced and exhilarating action sequences was a steamy romance full of sexual tension that culminated in a memorable sexual interlude. The mystery of who's trying to hurt Draco through those he loves is well done but with a villain that I found to be obvious and a rather bland comeuppance for his dastardly deeds. From start to finish I found myself completely immersed in this story, it's compelling and heartfelt characters, and am greatly looking forward to Ace's book as a secret come to life late in this story should make for interesting ramifications in the next story.
Wendy has been Guardian Draco's personal assistant for four years and been fighting her attraction to him all that time. Seeing him with countless models makes her feel unworthy of him though as she's got curves, difficulty in social situations, and an obsession with online gaming and a sci-fi TV show. For a woman brought up in an orphanage the only family she has are through her gaming and TV fandom, so it's a lonely life she leads that often has her wishing for a family of her own. I adored Wendy and her unabashed love of a sci-fi show and its moral code by which she lives by and is inspired by. She's spunky and is a breath of sunshine when things are bleak. She's very naive when it comes to matters of sex and seeing her learn firsthand about the birds and the bees is surprisingly sweet and definitely sexy with the charming Draco being her teacher.
Draco had a harsh childhood with a father who abandoned him and his brother Ace leaving them to fend for themselves. Being a superhero didn't make them rich until Draco founded a company where heroes are for hire. It's a dangerous life he leads with secrecy being very important as he never wants his loved ones put in jeopardy because of him. It's getting harder to keep Wendy at arms length once her life is threatened and bringing her to his home, where no other woman has been, makes him even more attracted to her and desperate to be the truly heroic man she sees in him. Draco is sometimes arrogant but always charming. He's extremely loyal to those he cares about and his brotherly interactions with Ace were playful and heartwarmingly realistic. In his protective mode he felt the need to control everything which led to him becoming consumed by work and weighed down by responsibility that made me ache for him and happy that Wendy could bring comfort and joy to his life.
Though we see a few other secondary superheroes the main focus is on Ace who's boyishly carefree and charming. His abilities aren't always easy to deal with and I found myself wanting to comfort him after his fight scenes. He's loyal to his brother but not afraid to tell him when he's wrong. His protectiveness towards Wendy was sweet and truly sisterly and it was at that moment that I saw a little family forming and it brought a tear to my eye. Complimenting the fast-paced and exhilarating action sequences was a steamy romance full of sexual tension that culminated in a memorable sexual interlude. The mystery of who's trying to hurt Draco through those he loves is well done but with a villain that I found to be obvious and a rather bland comeuppance for his dastardly deeds. From start to finish I found myself completely immersed in this story, it's compelling and heartfelt characters, and am greatly looking forward to Ace's book as a secret come to life late in this story should make for interesting ramifications in the next story.
October 17, 2012
Draco Powers is making a career (and money) out of being a real life superhero whether people approve of it or not. Wendy Warner is his competent (and very attractive) Handler, or assistant, and completely off limits for any romantic adventures. But when someone decides to target Wendy to get at Draco, all bets are off.
Now I readily admit that I'm 'one of those readers': Lois Lane was never good enough for Superman, much less Clark Kent and Catwoman is the one and only love of Batman's life. LOL. I love superhero romances and there are always so few of them out there (even if you included fanfiction) that just about any story is a treat, but saying this is good does NOT mean it's just the prettiest cockroach in the colony.
This story hit all my dork buttons with pleasure. I liked all the characters and the universe but that isn't to say that it's perfect. The storytelling could have used tighter editing (especially some comic book dork editing LOL). Such a big deal is made of the heroines origins that I was expecting some sort of reveal or resolution in the end, but there wasn't any. There are some new takes of the superhero genre that I really liked, but there are also some tropey 'twists' that are rather disappointing.
I'm also NOT a huge fan of virgin sex. In fact, I rather dislike it with passion, especially when it makes the woman come off like an idiot and adds no value to the story, like....
Really?! Come on. This woman is mid-twenties, not sheltered and on the internet and she's NEVER seen 'one' before?
Then we have...
There is also my problem of the hero calling the heroine 'little girl' in a romantic sense & in bed. Now, I get it that's totally my squick factor so it may not bother others but it did throw me out of the story.
Typically, those two issues alone would totally drop my rating to a 3 or 2, but I just have to say that by the time they came up, I just really liked the universe and the characters that I just let it slide. I'll be honest, if this had been about vampires or shifters, I would have been much less forgiving. In the end, the likeable universe and characters made this an enjoyable read despite some serious flaws.
Now I readily admit that I'm 'one of those readers': Lois Lane was never good enough for Superman, much less Clark Kent and Catwoman is the one and only love of Batman's life. LOL. I love superhero romances and there are always so few of them out there (even if you included fanfiction) that just about any story is a treat, but saying this is good does NOT mean it's just the prettiest cockroach in the colony.
This story hit all my dork buttons with pleasure. I liked all the characters and the universe but that isn't to say that it's perfect. The storytelling could have used tighter editing (especially some comic book dork editing LOL). Such a big deal is made of the heroines origins that I was expecting some sort of reveal or resolution in the end, but there wasn't any. There are some new takes of the superhero genre that I really liked, but there are also some tropey 'twists' that are rather disappointing.
I'm also NOT a huge fan of virgin sex. In fact, I rather dislike it with passion, especially when it makes the woman come off like an idiot and adds no value to the story, like....
"Is it really un-cool if I say to you I've never seen one before and I never imagined it could be so impressive?"
Really?! Come on. This woman is mid-twenties, not sheltered and on the internet and she's NEVER seen 'one' before?
Then we have...
"I'm going to push through now."
She shook her head. "Push through what?"
"Your barrier."
She bit down on her lip. "You're not all the way in yet?"
There is also my problem of the hero calling the heroine 'little girl' in a romantic sense & in bed. Now, I get it that's totally my squick factor so it may not bother others but it did throw me out of the story.
Typically, those two issues alone would totally drop my rating to a 3 or 2, but I just have to say that by the time they came up, I just really liked the universe and the characters that I just let it slide. I'll be honest, if this had been about vampires or shifters, I would have been much less forgiving. In the end, the likeable universe and characters made this an enjoyable read despite some serious flaws.
January 6, 2015
Wendy has always had a crush on her superhero boss. But ever since becoming his handler, she has maintained a business only working relationship and pushed her feeling to the back of her mind. Unknown to her, Draco has also harbored a crush on his sexy handler who seems to love teasing him with coming to work every Friday dressed in her curve-hugging starship uniform from her favorite science fiction TV show. (How much do I adore other sci-fi fans who aren’t afraid to show it?) Wendy has to deal with spiteful, competitive co-workers on top of the stress of just being Draco’s handler -- having to constantly drum it into her brain that he is just her boss and has a rep for one-night stands and a different girl on his arm each night, as well as being thrown into dangerous situations just by being at Draco’s side.
I love Wendy because I see so much of myself in her--from dressing up as a character from her favorite TV show, to playing games on-line. And how can I not sympathize with her mooning over her superhero boss when we’ve all watched the superhero movies with more than enough otherworldly gorgeous guys in them? But of course, none of us really consider the pitfalls and problems of being in love with a superhero, let alone being in a relationship with one in the center of the public spotlight. Rebecca Royce succeeds in showing Draco as a larger-than-life hero, while still having an inner core of humanity who hungers for love and friendship just like any normal person would which makes him as well a sympathetic character to follow. Beyond the character interactions and work place tangles, this story still delivers action and thrills, while still grounding it in the consumer-driven modern world with the hero fretting over damage costs, and the overhead costs of supporting himself and his rescue business on a fiscal budget.
I devoured this piece from beginning to end and am definitely scooping up more by the wonderful Rebecca Royce. Superhero fiction is few and far between and she delivered it in all its powered glory with a delicious mix of romance that would appeal to fans of that genre as well.
I love Wendy because I see so much of myself in her--from dressing up as a character from her favorite TV show, to playing games on-line. And how can I not sympathize with her mooning over her superhero boss when we’ve all watched the superhero movies with more than enough otherworldly gorgeous guys in them? But of course, none of us really consider the pitfalls and problems of being in love with a superhero, let alone being in a relationship with one in the center of the public spotlight. Rebecca Royce succeeds in showing Draco as a larger-than-life hero, while still having an inner core of humanity who hungers for love and friendship just like any normal person would which makes him as well a sympathetic character to follow. Beyond the character interactions and work place tangles, this story still delivers action and thrills, while still grounding it in the consumer-driven modern world with the hero fretting over damage costs, and the overhead costs of supporting himself and his rescue business on a fiscal budget.
I devoured this piece from beginning to end and am definitely scooping up more by the wonderful Rebecca Royce. Superhero fiction is few and far between and she delivered it in all its powered glory with a delicious mix of romance that would appeal to fans of that genre as well.
January 26, 2014
I do love the idea of Superheroes in fiction. Too long have they been illustrated into comics and confined to the big screen. Superhero fiction, although loosely urban fantasy, should have a genre in its own right, but this definitely falls into romance – or flies into it, whichever you prefer.
This book is part of a greater series, and again I managed to read the book out of sequence (I really do need to check these books out more thoroughly!) however, I’m guessing it’s more of a collection, than an on-going story, which makes doing that much more accessible to readers.
The idea of a secretary looking after a superhero is great (very Ironman/ Pepper Pots) my only problem was I didn’t think it needed her to be an addicted fan of a TV show, sporting the uniform like a crazy Treckie. It kind of muddied the waters for me and took away from the core of the book which was a superhero fantasy. I get why the author put it in, but I personally would have spent more time on action and plot, and left that facet out as it divides the readers in their opinion – either she’s cool, or a total nerd.
From a writer’s perspective it flowed well with only a few minor jumpy bits here and there. It’s a superhero romance with a dash of spice – so it really does do what it says on the tin. I would have liked to see a slightly more inventive plot – but to be fair, it’s a romance and so the relationship needed to take lead.
The front cover is cool and attractive and gives us ladies what we want – a hunky hero to drool over.
Overall I’d give Seductive Powers 3 out of 5 stars – If you’ve been salivating over the recent barrage of Marvel movies and want a bit more, pick up Rebecca Royce’s series today (tights and cape are optional!)
This book is part of a greater series, and again I managed to read the book out of sequence (I really do need to check these books out more thoroughly!) however, I’m guessing it’s more of a collection, than an on-going story, which makes doing that much more accessible to readers.
The idea of a secretary looking after a superhero is great (very Ironman/ Pepper Pots) my only problem was I didn’t think it needed her to be an addicted fan of a TV show, sporting the uniform like a crazy Treckie. It kind of muddied the waters for me and took away from the core of the book which was a superhero fantasy. I get why the author put it in, but I personally would have spent more time on action and plot, and left that facet out as it divides the readers in their opinion – either she’s cool, or a total nerd.
From a writer’s perspective it flowed well with only a few minor jumpy bits here and there. It’s a superhero romance with a dash of spice – so it really does do what it says on the tin. I would have liked to see a slightly more inventive plot – but to be fair, it’s a romance and so the relationship needed to take lead.
The front cover is cool and attractive and gives us ladies what we want – a hunky hero to drool over.
Overall I’d give Seductive Powers 3 out of 5 stars – If you’ve been salivating over the recent barrage of Marvel movies and want a bit more, pick up Rebecca Royce’s series today (tights and cape are optional!)
August 7, 2016
Wendy is a nerd and a fangirl of the show Space Adventures. She works for a real-life superhero, Draco Powers, as his handler. She has a crush on him, and he develops feelings for her. But there's some baddie out there who has a grudge against Draco, and Wendy might be collateral damage.
Eh. I didn't have high hopes for this book, but I downloaded it because I wanted to read something a little different. I'm a big fan of superhero comics, but this book didn't do anything for me. I couldn't get over the name "Draco Powers." And even though Draco is supposed to be the cream of the crop of superheroes in this world, he didn't seem to be all that swift (not knowing there was a bomb until three seconds before it exploded).
Wendy's nerdy, but she was a rather annoying character. She wore her cosplay costume to work because she volunteered at a soup kitchen afterwards. Then she whined when people looked at her weird or made fun of her. Apparently it never crossed her mind to take the costume to work and change into it before she left. And she just got more annoying as the book progressed.
There were also some inconsistencies. Wendy saying that she'd been abandoned at an orphanage at three weeks (uhh...does that even really happen anymore?), but then later in the book, she says how her parents only had her for a week. No idea how she knew that or where those other two weeks went.
I read the Kindle version, and there were numerous formatting problems. There were also some homonym mix-ups ("built on sight" when the author meant "built on site," for example). The sex was meh. Altogether, I'd recommend skipping this book.
Eh. I didn't have high hopes for this book, but I downloaded it because I wanted to read something a little different. I'm a big fan of superhero comics, but this book didn't do anything for me. I couldn't get over the name "Draco Powers." And even though Draco is supposed to be the cream of the crop of superheroes in this world, he didn't seem to be all that swift (not knowing there was a bomb until three seconds before it exploded).
Wendy's nerdy, but she was a rather annoying character. She wore her cosplay costume to work because she volunteered at a soup kitchen afterwards. Then she whined when people looked at her weird or made fun of her. Apparently it never crossed her mind to take the costume to work and change into it before she left. And she just got more annoying as the book progressed.
There were also some inconsistencies. Wendy saying that she'd been abandoned at an orphanage at three weeks (uhh...does that even really happen anymore?), but then later in the book, she says how her parents only had her for a week. No idea how she knew that or where those other two weeks went.
I read the Kindle version, and there were numerous formatting problems. There were also some homonym mix-ups ("built on sight" when the author meant "built on site," for example). The sex was meh. Altogether, I'd recommend skipping this book.
September 3, 2010
What an interesting spin on superheroes! I think the synopsis pretty much explains the story line. This was a delightful story. Not exactly very 'erotic', as we are used to in RR's other paranormal books. But still very romantic and sexy. I would have LOVED to read more superhero love scenes! But thats just my wicked need.
Draco was an immensely powerful and beautiful man. But the author portrayed him as a very vulnerable and flawed hero. Not the quintessential confident and perfect man with no worries in the world. He was incredibly unsure of himself and terrified of loving someone because he knew it would be a weakness for his enemies to target. Wendy was a gentle but strong woman. She was inexperienced but loved him so much. She didn't take any of his nonsense though. And I loved that about her.
The little bits of superhero content, villains, monsters, fights, superpowers, rescues, were totally fun and enjoyable. Draco was a true gentleman through and through. He knew he'd need to lower his defenses in order to have the woman he loved. He knew he would need to stop living in fear and just enjoy what life offered him.
I don't know that I would ever have been drawn to a romantic series about superheroes. But the world that the author built for these characters definitely grabs you and makes you want to read more about the other characters. These are all just people who happen to have extraordinary abilities, who want to live a normal life and be accepted and loved. I adored it. Can't wait to read the next one.
Draco was an immensely powerful and beautiful man. But the author portrayed him as a very vulnerable and flawed hero. Not the quintessential confident and perfect man with no worries in the world. He was incredibly unsure of himself and terrified of loving someone because he knew it would be a weakness for his enemies to target. Wendy was a gentle but strong woman. She was inexperienced but loved him so much. She didn't take any of his nonsense though. And I loved that about her.
The little bits of superhero content, villains, monsters, fights, superpowers, rescues, were totally fun and enjoyable. Draco was a true gentleman through and through. He knew he'd need to lower his defenses in order to have the woman he loved. He knew he would need to stop living in fear and just enjoy what life offered him.
I don't know that I would ever have been drawn to a romantic series about superheroes. But the world that the author built for these characters definitely grabs you and makes you want to read more about the other characters. These are all just people who happen to have extraordinary abilities, who want to live a normal life and be accepted and loved. I adored it. Can't wait to read the next one.
November 5, 2013
The first book in The Capes series is full of action, suspense, romance and super heroes.
Draco is a guardian who has super powers and Wendy is his handler at the guardian corporate headquarters. The two fight their attraction to one another while trying to make their clients happy and fight off the enemy who is out to destroy the guardians.
The plot is a unique twist on the super hero idea and has some surprising twists that keep the reader engaged throughout the story. The author has created a vivid and striking world with strong characters that the reader can connect with and the dialogue and the action in the story is believable.
The author also has created a female character that is a bit too naïve and innocent in spite of her past. I am very impressed that she was able to make this character believable and fit with the story.
I was very entertained by this tale and the only problem I had with this story is I did not want the story to end and there were some things that could have been expanded on a bit which would have made the story longer. I am looking forward to reading the other characters stories in the future.
Draco is a guardian who has super powers and Wendy is his handler at the guardian corporate headquarters. The two fight their attraction to one another while trying to make their clients happy and fight off the enemy who is out to destroy the guardians.
The plot is a unique twist on the super hero idea and has some surprising twists that keep the reader engaged throughout the story. The author has created a vivid and striking world with strong characters that the reader can connect with and the dialogue and the action in the story is believable.
The author also has created a female character that is a bit too naïve and innocent in spite of her past. I am very impressed that she was able to make this character believable and fit with the story.
I was very entertained by this tale and the only problem I had with this story is I did not want the story to end and there were some things that could have been expanded on a bit which would have made the story longer. I am looking forward to reading the other characters stories in the future.
November 29, 2013
Really awesome story! I am not a huge comic book or sci-fi fan, but this book was fantastic!
Wendy is just the sort of gal I like to read. She is sassy, brassy and comfortable in her own skin. Despite her past she finds something to believe in and never hesitates to be herself, regardless of what others think. I also loved her loyalty, she doesn't have a lot in her life but she is fiercely protective of the things she cares about.
Draco is definitely a strong silent type. He struggles with his choices and in his own way tries to do the right thing. He is often misunderstood in his decisions but I get why he makes them. I loved his protective streak!
Ms Royce does a wonderful job of crafting a full and dynamic world. She created a beautifully paced story that held lots of detail but never became too techie.
The steam factor here was rather low, only a couple sexy scenes to melt your ereader. I t was really more about the meat of the story, she delivered a hearty meal!
Can not wait for the next book, Ace is ripe for love!
*Disclosure - I received a copy in exchange for a honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.*
Wendy is just the sort of gal I like to read. She is sassy, brassy and comfortable in her own skin. Despite her past she finds something to believe in and never hesitates to be herself, regardless of what others think. I also loved her loyalty, she doesn't have a lot in her life but she is fiercely protective of the things she cares about.
Draco is definitely a strong silent type. He struggles with his choices and in his own way tries to do the right thing. He is often misunderstood in his decisions but I get why he makes them. I loved his protective streak!
Ms Royce does a wonderful job of crafting a full and dynamic world. She created a beautifully paced story that held lots of detail but never became too techie.
The steam factor here was rather low, only a couple sexy scenes to melt your ereader. I t was really more about the meat of the story, she delivered a hearty meal!
Can not wait for the next book, Ace is ripe for love!
*Disclosure - I received a copy in exchange for a honest review. All thoughts, opinions and ratings are my own.*
February 11, 2014
Six stars! I did not expect to enjoy a book with comic book style superhero characters, but Seductive Powers is a gem.
Wendy Warner is an orphan whose pitiful social life revolves around a sci-fi TV show and its fan club. In her work life, she “handles” a real life superhero, Draco Powers, a Guardian and the founder of Powers, Inc. She paves the way for him to do his job, which is saving the misfortunate and bringing justice to the world—all for a hefty fee, of course. She knows it’s hopeless, but Wendy crushes on Draco—and he’s attracted to her, but fears no mere mortal will be able to accept him. But then the evil secret “Organization” targets Wendy’s life to get to Draco.
I loved this book so much. Seductive Powers is tongue-in-cheek without being campy. It pokes fun at itself, yet manages to be a poignant believable read about fresh characters unique in their quirks. Seductive Powers hooked me from very beginning and kept me enthralled throughout the story. If you’re looking for fun and entertainment in your reading material, grab this one now! I’m already reading the second book, Adrenaline Rush.
Wendy Warner is an orphan whose pitiful social life revolves around a sci-fi TV show and its fan club. In her work life, she “handles” a real life superhero, Draco Powers, a Guardian and the founder of Powers, Inc. She paves the way for him to do his job, which is saving the misfortunate and bringing justice to the world—all for a hefty fee, of course. She knows it’s hopeless, but Wendy crushes on Draco—and he’s attracted to her, but fears no mere mortal will be able to accept him. But then the evil secret “Organization” targets Wendy’s life to get to Draco.
I loved this book so much. Seductive Powers is tongue-in-cheek without being campy. It pokes fun at itself, yet manages to be a poignant believable read about fresh characters unique in their quirks. Seductive Powers hooked me from very beginning and kept me enthralled throughout the story. If you’re looking for fun and entertainment in your reading material, grab this one now! I’m already reading the second book, Adrenaline Rush.
January 7, 2012
Draco Powers is superhero, but one who charges for his services and provides health care to other superheroes in his employ. Wendy Warner is his handler, but she can't help but see him as more than her boss.
When Draco's company, Powers Inc. is threatened by The Organization, and he and Wendy find their lives on the line, will it push them closer, into something more intimate, or keep Draco from getting close to anyone?
This is a wonderful superhero story. While Draco is a larger-than-life character, Wendy is realistic and relateable, the perfect person to balance him. I enjoyed getting to know them as well as many of the minor characters.
The storyline is common to what I expect a superhero story to embody, but with twists and turns I didn't see coming.
If you're a fan of Superman, Batman, Spiderman, or any of the other good-willed men with secret identities, you'll enjoy this twist on their stories. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
When Draco's company, Powers Inc. is threatened by The Organization, and he and Wendy find their lives on the line, will it push them closer, into something more intimate, or keep Draco from getting close to anyone?
This is a wonderful superhero story. While Draco is a larger-than-life character, Wendy is realistic and relateable, the perfect person to balance him. I enjoyed getting to know them as well as many of the minor characters.
The storyline is common to what I expect a superhero story to embody, but with twists and turns I didn't see coming.
If you're a fan of Superman, Batman, Spiderman, or any of the other good-willed men with secret identities, you'll enjoy this twist on their stories. I look forward to reading the next in the series.
October 16, 2010
Interesting concept. I was worried it would be too cheesy but it really isn't. It is, however, spoof like and you have to have a sense of humor. It's like a cross between Smallville and The Office. Mostly story with a little sex (if not for the language this would be mainstream completely) I really liked Wendy. Draco grew on me..and again the idea is really cute. Few too many mentions of health insurance perhaps. Suspension of belief required!
November 2, 2011
HOT! HOT! HOT!
This book is so different than the other books I have read and I am surprised that it's not so popular too. I mean come on Superheroes are always sexy and hot.
I know Draco Powers and Wendy Warner are the main focus but I loved Ace and I am looking forwards to read his book next.
All in all a lovely, short, hot book that will satisfy you.
This book is so different than the other books I have read and I am surprised that it's not so popular too. I mean come on Superheroes are always sexy and hot.
I know Draco Powers and Wendy Warner are the main focus but I loved Ace and I am looking forwards to read his book next.
All in all a lovely, short, hot book that will satisfy you.
November 9, 2013
I don't normally read 'superhero' books but I decided to read it and I loved it! I loved Wendy who was a strong character but had a vulnerability to her and Draco(Daniel) who was the alpha male(I love a alpha male) but who we later saw had a softer side as well, and I loved the concept of the story and now I'm looking forward to Ace's story!!!
January 10, 2014
Oh what fun! This was a wonderful geeky romp that I just can’t get enough of. The characters made me want to hug them. I can’t say enough how much I got a kick out of this story. Super heroes and geek girls and unbeatable combination. For an escape that will tickle your brain check out this book.
March 27, 2014
this was alright, a short, fluff read. I liked the concept a lot, but there wasn't much plot or character development. I think if the author had gone more in depth and made the romance more believable and the ending a bit less obvious, i would have enjoyed it more.
August 16, 2010
Another great paranormal read from Rebecca!
June 11, 2012
Cute and a little cheesy.
July 8, 2012
Really good but it went by too fast!
August 15, 2012
En realidad sería un 3 y medio, pero me ha encantado la cosplayera Wendy y su relación con el todopoderoso Draco. ¡Me han gustado mucho los superheroes de la era capitalista! ¡Jajaja!
November 2, 2013
This book and "Banging The Superhero" were definite departures from Rebecca Royce's shifter novels. They were fun.
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