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Game On
The Department of Super Abled has announced the first ever teen competition: a multi-stage challenge to find the next great superhero talent ... and Ruby Powell wants in.
The daughter of superheroes, fifteen-year-old Ruby has spent her whole life waiting to be old enough to start saving the day. When the Sable Games are announced, she sees her chance. Step 1, convince her superstar mother to lead her team. Step 2, prove herself the most valuable member of her team and win the hearts of the viewing public. Step 3, win the game and set herself up as DOSA's next big thing.
The son of a supervillain, Oliver Shelby has a lot to prove. When his application is rejected due to his history of heart issues, it looks like he'll be sidelined. The Powells' new underdog team might be his last chance. All he has to do is fudge the paperwork about his extensive medical history and hide the huge surgical scar on his chest. No big deal, right?
With some teens willing to play dirty for the top spot, Oliver and Ruby's team struggles to stay in the running. If Oliver's secret gets out, will they even be allowed to compete?
The daughter of superheroes, fifteen-year-old Ruby has spent her whole life waiting to be old enough to start saving the day. When the Sable Games are announced, she sees her chance. Step 1, convince her superstar mother to lead her team. Step 2, prove herself the most valuable member of her team and win the hearts of the viewing public. Step 3, win the game and set herself up as DOSA's next big thing.
The son of a supervillain, Oliver Shelby has a lot to prove. When his application is rejected due to his history of heart issues, it looks like he'll be sidelined. The Powells' new underdog team might be his last chance. All he has to do is fudge the paperwork about his extensive medical history and hide the huge surgical scar on his chest. No big deal, right?
With some teens willing to play dirty for the top spot, Oliver and Ruby's team struggles to stay in the running. If Oliver's secret gets out, will they even be allowed to compete?
- GenresSuperheroesYoung Adult
365 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 24, 2024
4 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
H.L. Burke
94 books564 followersBorn in a small town in north central Oregon, H. L. Burke spent most of her childhood around trees and farm animals and was always accompanied by a book. Growing up with epic heroes from Middle Earth and Narnia keeping her company, she also became an incurable romantic.
An addictive personality, she jumped from one fandom to another, being at times completely obsessed with various books, movies, or television series (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek all took their turns), but she has grown to be what she considers a well-rounded connoisseur of geek culture.
Married to her high school crush who is now a US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes that home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are.
She is the author of a four part fantasy/romance series entitled "The Dragon and the Scholar," the Award Winning (2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction) Nyssa Glass Steampunk series, and MG/Fantasy "Cora and the Nurse Dragon," among others .
Sign up for her monthly newsletter at www.hlburkeauthor.com
http://www.amazon.com/H.-L.-Burke/e/B...
An addictive personality, she jumped from one fandom to another, being at times completely obsessed with various books, movies, or television series (Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, and Star Trek all took their turns), but she has grown to be what she considers a well-rounded connoisseur of geek culture.
Married to her high school crush who is now a US Marine, she has moved multiple times in her adult life but believes that home is wherever her husband, two daughters, and pets are.
She is the author of a four part fantasy/romance series entitled "The Dragon and the Scholar," the Award Winning (2016 Realm Award for Young Adult Fiction) Nyssa Glass Steampunk series, and MG/Fantasy "Cora and the Nurse Dragon," among others .
Sign up for her monthly newsletter at www.hlburkeauthor.com
http://www.amazon.com/H.-L.-Burke/e/B...
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April 20, 2024New series, same world. You can start here without reading the rest of the books set in this universe, but it is kind of fun if you see the history behind this new generation.
June 24, 2025
I don’t normally like next generation stories. One, they usually make the main now adult cast awful or kill them off, and two, usually the children of said adults are brats I want to throw out a window off a cliff and don’t feel guilty in driving away without their bodies. (yep, I went there. You’re welcome. ☺️)
However, this series…
…I’m pleased to report is none of those things!!! 🎉🎉 Yay!!!
I LOVE Ruby, Curran, and Oliver! I love seeing the adult characters from previous books/series in this universe being exactly who they always were but as mentors and parents then main characters! All the characters old and new were amazing! I especially hope we get a book with Danny as the MC in the future because I love him, poor guy.
I LOVED seeing where Jake ended up (because of course I do, he’s still my favorite character!) and him and Laleh still snipping at each other like teens even when their grown adults was both exasperating and hilarious, though I did want to smack Laleh a few times for her insinuating that Jake couldn’t coach a team or just downright insulting him—um, RUDE! I kept getting this feeling throughout that she still hadn’t gotten over her high school crush on him, which is kinda weird if that’s true since Jake’s happily married with kids and all that, but I guess that can happen in real life? (If the author reads this, can you confirm if I’m right or wrong on this theory? I’m curious if I totally made that up or not, lol.)
My favorite part by far though was when Laleh showed up to try to get Ruby on her team and the Powell siblings are just having this telepathic conversation right in front of her, like whatever, lady, we’re planning team domination over here, lol, it was hilarious. 😆
The Sable Games were so much fun and it reminded me a lot of the Sports Festival arc in My Hero Academia just less dangerous, haha, since the teens don’t actually make contact in battling with each other like they do in MHA.
So much fun, loved every page, and I’m excited to see where the author takes these teens next! Her first YA series in this universe still remains one of my favorites, so I’m excited she’s doing another one!
‼️Content‼️
Language: dang; sucks; gosh; schtick; heck; what the; crap; screw; sucked; badass; crud; BS; jackasses; piss; geez; gee; dammit; what the heck; oh my gosh; damn; darn; holy crap; twit
Violence: a character is harassed and pushed down stairs (not detailed); injuries (not detailed); fighting with superpowers in a simulation (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); mild suggestive hints; a guy is called smoking hot
Alcohol/Drugs: adult characters drink alcohol; a woman is said to have been a drug addict
Other: superheroes/supervillains/superpowers; bullying; cheating in a sports competition
However, this series…
…I’m pleased to report is none of those things!!! 🎉🎉 Yay!!!
I LOVE Ruby, Curran, and Oliver! I love seeing the adult characters from previous books/series in this universe being exactly who they always were but as mentors and parents then main characters! All the characters old and new were amazing! I especially hope we get a book with Danny as the MC in the future because I love him, poor guy.
I LOVED seeing where Jake ended up (because of course I do, he’s still my favorite character!) and him and Laleh still snipping at each other like teens even when their grown adults was both exasperating and hilarious, though I did want to smack Laleh a few times for her insinuating that Jake couldn’t coach a team or just downright insulting him—um, RUDE! I kept getting this feeling throughout that she still hadn’t gotten over her high school crush on him, which is kinda weird if that’s true since Jake’s happily married with kids and all that, but I guess that can happen in real life? (If the author reads this, can you confirm if I’m right or wrong on this theory? I’m curious if I totally made that up or not, lol.)
My favorite part by far though was when Laleh showed up to try to get Ruby on her team and the Powell siblings are just having this telepathic conversation right in front of her, like whatever, lady, we’re planning team domination over here, lol, it was hilarious. 😆
The Sable Games were so much fun and it reminded me a lot of the Sports Festival arc in My Hero Academia just less dangerous, haha, since the teens don’t actually make contact in battling with each other like they do in MHA.
So much fun, loved every page, and I’m excited to see where the author takes these teens next! Her first YA series in this universe still remains one of my favorites, so I’m excited she’s doing another one!
‼️Content‼️
Language: dang; sucks; gosh; schtick; heck; what the; crap; screw; sucked; badass; crud; BS; jackasses; piss; geez; gee; dammit; what the heck; oh my gosh; damn; darn; holy crap; twit
Violence: a character is harassed and pushed down stairs (not detailed); injuries (not detailed); fighting with superpowers in a simulation (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed); mild suggestive hints; a guy is called smoking hot
Alcohol/Drugs: adult characters drink alcohol; a woman is said to have been a drug addict
Other: superheroes/supervillains/superpowers; bullying; cheating in a sports competition
May 4, 2024
Next-generation stories are always a risk — after all, there's so many ways they can go wrong, whether they echo the originals too much, present beloved original-generation characters in an unflattering light (or kill them off entirely), or commit a myriad of other storytelling sins. However, in Game On, Burke has shown authors how to do next-gen stories right.
One of the primary things that makes this story work so well is that we get new main characters who are uniquely themselves, but the original characters like Prism, Fade, and Jake are still around — they're just not the main focus. Jake does get POV chapters, but for the most part, the older generation is here as mentors — wise ones! Prism and Fade aren't perfect parents, but they are good ones, and Jake is great as both an older brother and a coach for the main team. Where they fall short, it's in ways consistent with what we already know about them.
Plus, our new main characters are really fun themselves. Well, technically, we've met all of them before, but all at much younger ages. Our story follows Ruby and Curran (Prism and Fade's kids, previously seen in the Supervillain Rescue Project), as well as Oliver (from Wishing on a Supervillain). I enjoyed all three, and I think they strike a good balance between showing traits inherited from their families while still being their own people. Ruby has strong love for and pride in her family, and she wants to be a hero like her parents and grandparents were, but still has to work out how to balance her dreams with reality. Curran is quieter, still working out his worth and who he wants to be, but he provides a good balance to Ruby's over-the-top enthusiasm. And Oliver is trying to push past people's perceptions of him to prove he's more than his past health issues and to get others to see him for his determined, kind, and courageous self.
In addition to these leads, we have a large supporting cast of both new and old faces. I loved catching up with some old friends (sometimes in significant roles, sometimes in just one or two scenes) and meeting some new characters who I suspect we'll be seeing more of in the future. Again, Burke does an excellent job of connecting this story in with past books while still making something new.
Moving on from the characters to plot, Burke has once again merged the superhero genre with tropes from another genre, but this time, instead of romance, we have a sports story . . . though, honestly, the tournament arc is a staple of a lot of genres. While we don't have an overt villain in this book, there's still plenty of excitement and tension on both the large-scale level of the characters overcoming the different challenges of the Sable Games and on the smaller-scale level of interpersonal clashes between teams. Also, I kind of love the whole Sable Games concept, both because it makes so much sense for this world (we're a few generations into superpowers being common; OF COURSE we're going to come up with a competition centered around them, and OF COURSE it's going to be a DOSA PR stunt) and because it's just really fun to read.
Game On is, again, the start of a new series within the SVR-verse, and it's meant to be another entry point for new readers. That means the early chapters of the narrative contain a fair bit of explanation about things seasoned SVR readers already know. It's handled well and not overdone, but it's something to be aware of. Also, I think that, as another entry point, it would work really well. Again, we have new characters and a new storyline, but it still contains all the things we love about the SVR-verse stories: humor, exciting action, cool superpowers, and strong themes of family and its importance. So, whether you're a long-time fan or this is your first encounter with Burke's work, I definitely recommend picking up this book!
One of the primary things that makes this story work so well is that we get new main characters who are uniquely themselves, but the original characters like Prism, Fade, and Jake are still around — they're just not the main focus. Jake does get POV chapters, but for the most part, the older generation is here as mentors — wise ones! Prism and Fade aren't perfect parents, but they are good ones, and Jake is great as both an older brother and a coach for the main team. Where they fall short, it's in ways consistent with what we already know about them.
Plus, our new main characters are really fun themselves. Well, technically, we've met all of them before, but all at much younger ages. Our story follows Ruby and Curran (Prism and Fade's kids, previously seen in the Supervillain Rescue Project), as well as Oliver (from Wishing on a Supervillain). I enjoyed all three, and I think they strike a good balance between showing traits inherited from their families while still being their own people. Ruby has strong love for and pride in her family, and she wants to be a hero like her parents and grandparents were, but still has to work out how to balance her dreams with reality. Curran is quieter, still working out his worth and who he wants to be, but he provides a good balance to Ruby's over-the-top enthusiasm. And Oliver is trying to push past people's perceptions of him to prove he's more than his past health issues and to get others to see him for his determined, kind, and courageous self.
In addition to these leads, we have a large supporting cast of both new and old faces. I loved catching up with some old friends (sometimes in significant roles, sometimes in just one or two scenes) and meeting some new characters who I suspect we'll be seeing more of in the future. Again, Burke does an excellent job of connecting this story in with past books while still making something new.
Moving on from the characters to plot, Burke has once again merged the superhero genre with tropes from another genre, but this time, instead of romance, we have a sports story . . . though, honestly, the tournament arc is a staple of a lot of genres. While we don't have an overt villain in this book, there's still plenty of excitement and tension on both the large-scale level of the characters overcoming the different challenges of the Sable Games and on the smaller-scale level of interpersonal clashes between teams. Also, I kind of love the whole Sable Games concept, both because it makes so much sense for this world (we're a few generations into superpowers being common; OF COURSE we're going to come up with a competition centered around them, and OF COURSE it's going to be a DOSA PR stunt) and because it's just really fun to read.
Game On is, again, the start of a new series within the SVR-verse, and it's meant to be another entry point for new readers. That means the early chapters of the narrative contain a fair bit of explanation about things seasoned SVR readers already know. It's handled well and not overdone, but it's something to be aware of. Also, I think that, as another entry point, it would work really well. Again, we have new characters and a new storyline, but it still contains all the things we love about the SVR-verse stories: humor, exciting action, cool superpowers, and strong themes of family and its importance. So, whether you're a long-time fan or this is your first encounter with Burke's work, I definitely recommend picking up this book!
July 6, 2025
It blew me away!
This was my first introduction to the superhero series by Burke and I absolutely love it. The characters are fantastic and relatable. The tournament style plot, complete with sabotage and scares, was engaging. I liked the modern day settings, making it easy to picture the food, facilities, and camp despite the scifi bent. Now that I've experienced it, I want to go and read her other ones. A perfect book for a time when I'm sicker than a dog.
Content: PG level violence. One damn. One descriptive kiss between a married couple.
This was my first introduction to the superhero series by Burke and I absolutely love it. The characters are fantastic and relatable. The tournament style plot, complete with sabotage and scares, was engaging. I liked the modern day settings, making it easy to picture the food, facilities, and camp despite the scifi bent. Now that I've experienced it, I want to go and read her other ones. A perfect book for a time when I'm sicker than a dog.
Content: PG level violence. One damn. One descriptive kiss between a married couple.
December 31, 2024
Up until now, Power Play was my favorite book in the SVR universe… until I read this one. Game On swooped in and stole the show.
Of course, as I’ve been reading along with the SVR since the beginning, I’ve also been begging for a next-generation story, and this one is everything I hoped it would be! I loved getting to know some of these characters as teens whom I have only known as toddlers/kids so far. I loved how the author wove in the family ties, the difficulties and thrills of feeling like you’re shouldering a legacy. This is a coming-of-age story in every best sense of the term. It’s also a bit of a sports story. And of course, it’s also a superhero story.
And it was epic!
Of course, as I’ve been reading along with the SVR since the beginning, I’ve also been begging for a next-generation story, and this one is everything I hoped it would be! I loved getting to know some of these characters as teens whom I have only known as toddlers/kids so far. I loved how the author wove in the family ties, the difficulties and thrills of feeling like you’re shouldering a legacy. This is a coming-of-age story in every best sense of the term. It’s also a bit of a sports story. And of course, it’s also a superhero story.
And it was epic!
May 16, 2024
Game On is a great read! It's perfect for returning fans of HL Burke's Superhero Verse, and it's also a great book for those who've never read the other books. (I'm relatively new to this story world, but I enjoyed seeing cameos of characters I recognized, and while I recognized a lot of names from other books' synopses, I was never lost or confused.)
All 3 of the main characters are very relatable and will have you rooting for them the whole time! They are not perfect... They mess up... they all mean well, though, and when they do something wrong, there are realistic consequences.
I love how family focused this book is. It's amazing to see a book where siblings love and have each other's backs and where parents are allies and not antagonists!
This book is for you if:
*You like superheroes
*You love stories about siblings and family
*You enjoy complex characters
This book might not be for you if:
*You are one of those parents who never let their kids read books where any character does anything wrong. I know you're out there... I see you on social media all the time, so this is your warning. A character intentionally withholds information to be accepted into the contest, a character vandalizes a fellow contestant's property, there is both physical and verbal bullying, and there is cheating. I personally believe that these situations add to the story and personal character arcs, but I know there are parents who avoid that sort of thing, so there it is.
This book is a great read for teens or adults. I would even say it would be fine for some pre-teens. I highly recommend!
All 3 of the main characters are very relatable and will have you rooting for them the whole time! They are not perfect... They mess up... they all mean well, though, and when they do something wrong, there are realistic consequences.
I love how family focused this book is. It's amazing to see a book where siblings love and have each other's backs and where parents are allies and not antagonists!
This book is for you if:
*You like superheroes
*You love stories about siblings and family
*You enjoy complex characters
This book might not be for you if:
*You are one of those parents who never let their kids read books where any character does anything wrong. I know you're out there... I see you on social media all the time, so this is your warning. A character intentionally withholds information to be accepted into the contest, a character vandalizes a fellow contestant's property, there is both physical and verbal bullying, and there is cheating. I personally believe that these situations add to the story and personal character arcs, but I know there are parents who avoid that sort of thing, so there it is.
This book is a great read for teens or adults. I would even say it would be fine for some pre-teens. I highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2024
Oh my gosh, such a fun addition to the SVR universe! I gobbled it up like candy, and some of my favorite moments were the banter, when Fade and Jake go all poppa bear for Ruby's sake, and a scene right at the end that had me laughing so hard I couldn't breathe. One of my favorite superhero series ever!
July 2, 2025
Just a really, really good book. Actual rating: 4.5 stars. I rounded up because it was such an excellent example of its genre. It didn’t have the rereadability factor I usually require for 5 stars, but that’s more because I don’t reread action books. I still loved this book.
It's for anyone who likes: action stories, YA growing up stories, characters with super abilities, teen competition stories. I've read several books out of Burke's DOSA-verse now, but this is my favorite so far.
Other more random thoughts:
I haven't read her first YA series set at Camp Sable, but I felt like I would have appreciated certain characters even more (especially Jake and Laelah) if I had read that first. So if you must read things in order, keep that in mind.
I really appreciate the normalcy of this series. I know, the characters are all super-abled, what's normal about that? But seriously - they do things like sit down for family dinner. Pray. Talk to each other (YESSSSSS no book-long miscommunications!!!) Use cell phones and slang. Throw a pizza in the oven at the end of a busy day. Deal with bullies and jealousy. The little-thing details present in these stories make me appreciate the entire story even more.
Content: I'd rate it PG-13 but just because there are a few intense action/suspense scenes, and the book discusses topics of more interest to teens (social media, boyfriend/girlfriend, highschool, etc.) Nothing was inappropriate for younger ages, I just don't think it will appeal to them as much.
It's for anyone who likes: action stories, YA growing up stories, characters with super abilities, teen competition stories. I've read several books out of Burke's DOSA-verse now, but this is my favorite so far.
Other more random thoughts:
I haven't read her first YA series set at Camp Sable, but I felt like I would have appreciated certain characters even more (especially Jake and Laelah) if I had read that first. So if you must read things in order, keep that in mind.
I really appreciate the normalcy of this series. I know, the characters are all super-abled, what's normal about that? But seriously - they do things like sit down for family dinner. Pray. Talk to each other (YESSSSSS no book-long miscommunications!!!) Use cell phones and slang. Throw a pizza in the oven at the end of a busy day. Deal with bullies and jealousy. The little-thing details present in these stories make me appreciate the entire story even more.
Content: I'd rate it PG-13 but just because there are a few intense action/suspense scenes, and the book discusses topics of more interest to teens (social media, boyfriend/girlfriend, highschool, etc.) Nothing was inappropriate for younger ages, I just don't think it will appeal to them as much.
April 1, 2025
An Exciting New Superhero Series
The Supervillain Legacy Project series is a fantastic new installment in Hedi Burke’s DOSA-verse. If you’re a new comer, you’ll find an exciting YA competition novel that’s got some Hunger Games meets Marvel vibes and a whole lot more. This book features themes of friendship and teamwork, while exploring purpose, inner strength, and integrity. With a compelling story and high-stakes action, what are you waiting for? Check out Game On today!
As a reader of the previous series in this superhero universe, I loved re-visiting the rivalry between Jake and Lelah, seeing some favorite DOSA babies all grown up and using their powers, and getting some foreshadowing into several possible future stories to expand the universe even farther! There’s no bad place to start in this multi-series world if you love superheroes and following the everyday challenges that these relatable characters face and overcome. I’ve highly enjoyed each action-packed or romantically driven story in the Supervillain Rehabilitation Series, the Supervillain Rescue Project, the Supervillain Romance Project, the Superhero Romance Project, and now, the Supervillain Legacy Project!
The Supervillain Legacy Project series is a fantastic new installment in Hedi Burke’s DOSA-verse. If you’re a new comer, you’ll find an exciting YA competition novel that’s got some Hunger Games meets Marvel vibes and a whole lot more. This book features themes of friendship and teamwork, while exploring purpose, inner strength, and integrity. With a compelling story and high-stakes action, what are you waiting for? Check out Game On today!
As a reader of the previous series in this superhero universe, I loved re-visiting the rivalry between Jake and Lelah, seeing some favorite DOSA babies all grown up and using their powers, and getting some foreshadowing into several possible future stories to expand the universe even farther! There’s no bad place to start in this multi-series world if you love superheroes and following the everyday challenges that these relatable characters face and overcome. I’ve highly enjoyed each action-packed or romantically driven story in the Supervillain Rehabilitation Series, the Supervillain Rescue Project, the Supervillain Romance Project, the Superhero Romance Project, and now, the Supervillain Legacy Project!
May 7, 2024
A new generation sets out to prove itself and as usual, it's all about heart. And adrenaline. And creative fun with superpowers...
This book is a little different because it jumps forward in time some years and features children of characters from various previous books, and also because it's set around a teen super-abled games rather than directly fighting crime. Sports-contest plots are not usually my thing, though I did enjoy the winking Pokemon reference, and the setpieces are as creative as I have come to expect.
Our core POV is a team of three: my favourite was Oliver, the kid who rather stole the show in Wishing on a Supervillain, and who lies about his heart condition to enrol. We also have Ruby and Curran who we mostly met as toddler and baby of Fade and Prism. 15yo Ruby's kindness and innocent enthusiasm for life clashes painfully with some of the meaner and more cynical contestants and the gentle-spirited Curran has to work out what kind of person he is and what powers he's willing to use to win.
For sure you could join the series here without having read the previous books. For those who have, we get to spend time with a number of old friends. I particularly enjoyed seeing Jake and the hypercompetitive Laleh (from Power On) head to head as rival coaches. This kind of thing can easily become overly sentimental and get in the way of the plot (The Force Awakens, anyone? Or I've just reviewed The Late Scholar which has a similar nostalgia overload). That's not the case here and to take that example, Jake and Laleh deal with some unresolved issues latent in the previous books.
So the new generation is good to go, and I'm looking forward to more adventures!
I received a free ARC without conditions. This review is my own.
This book is a little different because it jumps forward in time some years and features children of characters from various previous books, and also because it's set around a teen super-abled games rather than directly fighting crime. Sports-contest plots are not usually my thing, though I did enjoy the winking Pokemon reference, and the setpieces are as creative as I have come to expect.
Our core POV is a team of three: my favourite was Oliver, the kid who rather stole the show in Wishing on a Supervillain, and who lies about his heart condition to enrol. We also have Ruby and Curran who we mostly met as toddler and baby of Fade and Prism. 15yo Ruby's kindness and innocent enthusiasm for life clashes painfully with some of the meaner and more cynical contestants and the gentle-spirited Curran has to work out what kind of person he is and what powers he's willing to use to win.
For sure you could join the series here without having read the previous books. For those who have, we get to spend time with a number of old friends. I particularly enjoyed seeing Jake and the hypercompetitive Laleh (from Power On) head to head as rival coaches. This kind of thing can easily become overly sentimental and get in the way of the plot (The Force Awakens, anyone? Or I've just reviewed The Late Scholar which has a similar nostalgia overload). That's not the case here and to take that example, Jake and Laleh deal with some unresolved issues latent in the previous books.
So the new generation is good to go, and I'm looking forward to more adventures!
I received a free ARC without conditions. This review is my own.
May 27, 2024
Game On is the beginning of a legacy series because it is the children of superheroes and villains from the rest of the universe books. It’s starts with a spunky 15-year-old named Ruby whose family has been a part of the heroing side (on her mom’s side) going back to the establishment of the heroing authorities. Her dad is a reformed villain, and both her parents are dedicated to helping super-abled (“sables”) kids escape the path to villainy before it’s too late.
Ruby wants to enter a brand new competition, games that challenge sables, but she needs a team to do it, and she’s all about family. Nothing quite turns out how she imagines, but because of her strong convictions and can-do attitude, she forms a team that almost meets her dreams. Grudges, hidden agendas, and secrets between teammates could ruin their chances at victory...and their friendship. Later, I think, she finds out she has exactly the team she was always meant to have, but that’s just my opinion.
Ruby, Curran, Oliver, and their coach Jake head into the games with dreams of winning, but there are other teams involved who might be holding grudges and hidden agendas that could derail any chance of winning. It’s only made worse when they find out one of their teammates has been keeping secrets.
While this book is filled with fantastic action and fun futuristic tech, creating a story that’s a little Hunger Games meets Ready Player One, it’s really the character relationships and growth that drew me in. These characters feel real, and their interactions are both endearing and infuriating. I definitely recommend Game On to upper middle grade and YA readers especially. This is a book you could safely get for your kids with exciting plot and great moral themes.
I received an ARC of Game On and reviewed because I wanted to! Happy reading!
Ruby wants to enter a brand new competition, games that challenge sables, but she needs a team to do it, and she’s all about family. Nothing quite turns out how she imagines, but because of her strong convictions and can-do attitude, she forms a team that almost meets her dreams. Grudges, hidden agendas, and secrets between teammates could ruin their chances at victory...and their friendship. Later, I think, she finds out she has exactly the team she was always meant to have, but that’s just my opinion.
Ruby, Curran, Oliver, and their coach Jake head into the games with dreams of winning, but there are other teams involved who might be holding grudges and hidden agendas that could derail any chance of winning. It’s only made worse when they find out one of their teammates has been keeping secrets.
While this book is filled with fantastic action and fun futuristic tech, creating a story that’s a little Hunger Games meets Ready Player One, it’s really the character relationships and growth that drew me in. These characters feel real, and their interactions are both endearing and infuriating. I definitely recommend Game On to upper middle grade and YA readers especially. This is a book you could safely get for your kids with exciting plot and great moral themes.
I received an ARC of Game On and reviewed because I wanted to! Happy reading!
April 30, 2024
Game on is the first in a new series set in the SVR/Dosa universe and a great place for newcomers to this 'world' to start reading and at the same time it has so many appearances from characters in earlier books for long time readers to spot. DOSA has announced the first Sable Games for teens with superpowers. To DOSA, it's about generating good PR, but for teenager Ruby it's a chance to prove her worth as a superhero of the future. She recruits both her brothers (the elder as coach and the younger as teammate) and family contacts help find the third teammate. There is action without violence (well, may be a little but it's absolutely minimal and G rated), hints of a (very) slow burn romance, touches of humour, and lots of heart. So basically, there is nothing not to love about this book and all that really needs to be said is that it is fabulous.
Like all the previous books in the SVR/DOSA universe, it's what I would describe as 'Superhero Cosy'; it's not about the fate of the world/universe like some of the more over the top superhero stories can be, but more focused on people who happen to have superpowers and what their lives are like, what their hopes and ambitions are, what inconveniences can come from having superpowers and what problems they have to overcome, be it a villain out do do harm, life choices that need re-thinking or as in this case a competiton that needs a winner.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
Like all the previous books in the SVR/DOSA universe, it's what I would describe as 'Superhero Cosy'; it's not about the fate of the world/universe like some of the more over the top superhero stories can be, but more focused on people who happen to have superpowers and what their lives are like, what their hopes and ambitions are, what inconveniences can come from having superpowers and what problems they have to overcome, be it a villain out do do harm, life choices that need re-thinking or as in this case a competiton that needs a winner.
I received an ARC and leave an honest review.
April 24, 2024
Author H.L. Burke has done it again. That's right, even more superhero books. Game on is the first book in a new series featuring the next generation of heros, AKA the children of the characters from her previous series.
Usually, I like to tell people were to start reading but there are too many books in this universe and Game On has a shiny #1 on the cover so I guess well go with that. Besides, nearly every previous character makes a cameo so I can't even go by who is in the book. Still there is an inate joy in seeing character grow and change over time.
On that note, I really loved getting to know the new cast of characters, especially Oliver. He was introduced in Burke's most recent release Wishing on a Supervillain and it was interesting getting to see him all grown up.
Game On is a different kind of superhero book though. Instead of a villain to fight or a world to save, This is a sports book. Camp Sable's Team needs to win the game and defeat the rival team to win the first ever Sable competition. I don't normally read sports stories, but as always, everything is better with superpowers.
Usually, I like to tell people were to start reading but there are too many books in this universe and Game On has a shiny #1 on the cover so I guess well go with that. Besides, nearly every previous character makes a cameo so I can't even go by who is in the book. Still there is an inate joy in seeing character grow and change over time.
On that note, I really loved getting to know the new cast of characters, especially Oliver. He was introduced in Burke's most recent release Wishing on a Supervillain and it was interesting getting to see him all grown up.
Game On is a different kind of superhero book though. Instead of a villain to fight or a world to save, This is a sports book. Camp Sable's Team needs to win the game and defeat the rival team to win the first ever Sable competition. I don't normally read sports stories, but as always, everything is better with superpowers.
May 26, 2024
I received an arc copy, though I did receive an arc copy, my review is unbiased.
My rating is more of a 3.5 stars, I did round up because I do love the story.
This story is so addictive, I loved the characters and the storyline. The amount of times they compared chillz and heatstroke to different duos sent me 😂. Ollie's story about his dad made me sad. His dad only was in jail for protecting his mom. (It's giving touch her and you die)
Oliver crossed his arms over his chest. "Yeah, my dad fried a guy. It was for hurting my mom. Want to see what happens when you screw with people I care about?"
Oliver gives that same touch her and you die energy and I am here for it. I was rooting for ruby and ollie, I am hoping to see more of them in the next book.
“Act like a hero, think like a villain!”
The biggest thing that bothered me was a couple of typos in the book. Once I can overlook, twice is what made me have a double take. It took me out of the story to have to decipher the correct word before I could continue. If it wasn't for the typos I would stand by a 4-5 star review because of how much I loved the story.
My rating is more of a 3.5 stars, I did round up because I do love the story.
This story is so addictive, I loved the characters and the storyline. The amount of times they compared chillz and heatstroke to different duos sent me 😂. Ollie's story about his dad made me sad. His dad only was in jail for protecting his mom. (It's giving touch her and you die)
Oliver crossed his arms over his chest. "Yeah, my dad fried a guy. It was for hurting my mom. Want to see what happens when you screw with people I care about?"
Oliver gives that same touch her and you die energy and I am here for it. I was rooting for ruby and ollie, I am hoping to see more of them in the next book.
“Act like a hero, think like a villain!”
The biggest thing that bothered me was a couple of typos in the book. Once I can overlook, twice is what made me have a double take. It took me out of the story to have to decipher the correct word before I could continue. If it wasn't for the typos I would stand by a 4-5 star review because of how much I loved the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2024
I really enjoyed Game On! This book is a promising start to a new sub-series in author H.L. Burke's superhero/supervillain universe. Each character is unique and well-developed and has an interesting personality and skillset. The story's premise (a nationwide competition for superpowered teens) is a fun one, and the story is not as predictable as you might think. A few unexpected twists keep readers on their toes, and the ending opens an intriguing door for future adventures.
My only complaint is that the book is not well edited. It's hard to stay immersed in a story, however exciting, when grammar errors, missing punctuation, awkward sentence construction, and incorrectly used words keep yanking you out. However, bear in mind that I'm a professional editor, so I probably notice those issues more than most people. I still recommend Game On to anyone looking for a fun YA adventure, and I'm looking forward to the next book!
My only complaint is that the book is not well edited. It's hard to stay immersed in a story, however exciting, when grammar errors, missing punctuation, awkward sentence construction, and incorrectly used words keep yanking you out. However, bear in mind that I'm a professional editor, so I probably notice those issues more than most people. I still recommend Game On to anyone looking for a fun YA adventure, and I'm looking forward to the next book!
April 23, 2025
It was pretty good. Ruby's characterization felt a little... empty? Maybe just a little? I didn't like this quite as much as other books in the universe and can't put my finger on why. Maybe because there wasn't a set villain? I also didn't love how Laleh is now, how she I did like all the name dropping though 🤣 So sue me, I love this universe so much that even a less-good book is fantastic when it has Fade and Switch and Prism.
May 14, 2025
An enjoyable and entertaining story
A story where you can relate with the kids, understanding personal concerns and beliefs, family relationship and challenges, and how to balance this with having super powers. There's a sure focus to redemption for the classic villain image, but has a nice twist on this concept as well!
A story where you can relate with the kids, understanding personal concerns and beliefs, family relationship and challenges, and how to balance this with having super powers. There's a sure focus to redemption for the classic villain image, but has a nice twist on this concept as well!
October 15, 2024
As I'm easily bored by fights, I'm not usually interested in stories about superheroes and supervillains, but this is different - a competition between teenagers in a secure environment (and previously, I had also enjoyed the series set in a camp for super-able youths, starring Jake who now appears in this book as the adult coaching a team of three teenagers... including Ruby who was a toddler in those older books).
I quickly got attached to all three main teen characters (Ruby, her younger brother born during the previous series, and Oliver who appears to be from another book I haven't read yet) and of course I enjoyed following the competition, as well as discovering all aspects of each main character's power.
I quickly got attached to all three main teen characters (Ruby, her younger brother born during the previous series, and Oliver who appears to be from another book I haven't read yet) and of course I enjoyed following the competition, as well as discovering all aspects of each main character's power.
May 22, 2024
Game On is the beginning of a legacy series because it is the children of superheroes and villains from the rest of the universe books. It’s starts with a spunky 15-year-old named Ruby whose family has been a part of the heroing side (on her mom’s side) going back to the establishment of the heroing authorities. Her dad is a reformed villain, and both her parents are dedicated to helping super-abled (“sables”) kids escape the path to villainy before it’s too late.
Ruby wants to enter a brand new competition, games that challenge sables, but she needs a team to do it, and she’s all about family. Nothing quite turns out how she imagines, but because of her strong convictions and can-do attitude, she forms a team that almost meets her dreams. Grudges, hidden agendas, and secrets between teammates could ruin their chances at victory...and their friendship. Later, I think, she finds out she has exactly the team she was always meant to have, but that’s just my opinion.
Ruby, Curran, Oliver, and their coach Jake head into the games with dreams of winning, but there are other teams involved who might be holding grudges and hidden agendas that could derail any chance of winning. It’s only made worse when they find out one of their teammates has been keeping secrets.
While this book is filled with fantastic action and fun futuristic tech, creating a story that’s a little Hunger Games meets Ready Player One, it’s really the character relationships and growth that drew me in. These characters feel real, and their interactions are both endearing and infuriating. I definitely recommend Game On to upper middle grade and YA readers especially. This is a book you could safely get for your kids with exciting plot and great moral themes.
I received an ARC of Game On and reviewed because I wanted to! Happy reading!
Ruby wants to enter a brand new competition, games that challenge sables, but she needs a team to do it, and she’s all about family. Nothing quite turns out how she imagines, but because of her strong convictions and can-do attitude, she forms a team that almost meets her dreams. Grudges, hidden agendas, and secrets between teammates could ruin their chances at victory...and their friendship. Later, I think, she finds out she has exactly the team she was always meant to have, but that’s just my opinion.
Ruby, Curran, Oliver, and their coach Jake head into the games with dreams of winning, but there are other teams involved who might be holding grudges and hidden agendas that could derail any chance of winning. It’s only made worse when they find out one of their teammates has been keeping secrets.
While this book is filled with fantastic action and fun futuristic tech, creating a story that’s a little Hunger Games meets Ready Player One, it’s really the character relationships and growth that drew me in. These characters feel real, and their interactions are both endearing and infuriating. I definitely recommend Game On to upper middle grade and YA readers especially. This is a book you could safely get for your kids with exciting plot and great moral themes.
I received an ARC of Game On and reviewed because I wanted to! Happy reading!
May 7, 2024
This is such a good book! I'm not even sure where to start. Though one of Burke's longer novels, it feels short, and I didn’t want it to end. The competition premise makes it exciting from the beginning. The family dynamics between siblings Ruby and Curren, adopted older brother Jake, and parents Fade and Prism are believable and endearing. Ruby is probably my favorite character. Though Oliver is the "leader," Ruby is the glue. Jake is there for her. Curran is there because of her. Oliver excels because of her, for various reasons. She really holds the story together. She's an idealist with gumption who prods everyone into taking action--the definition of a noblebright character. I really wanted things to go well for her. She’s a great person to root for. Burke has developed her characters and their motivations so well. Even Oliver's "I can't tell the truth because they'll reject me" rationale didn't annoy me like the keeping secrets trope often does because it made so much sense in the context. The plot is straightforward but with so many layers and nuances and relationships that every scene captivated my attention and I enjoyed watching everything unfold. Longtime readers will enjoy seeing old friends, but the story should be easy to follow for a first-time reader. There are a few innuendo and the rare curse word, but otherwise I would recommend it to just about anyone, but especially fans of superheroes and the Hunger Games who want something a little more lighthearted.
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