What do you think?
Rate this book
The Love Interest #2
The Hero Complex
Jenna Ray was the Love Interest, but now she's the HERO. Unfortunately, as it turns out, having actual superpowers doesn't make life any easier.
For starters, being an official superhero means Jenna and Blaze can work together but not be together, no matter how much they are drawn to each other.
Jenna knows she can make it work. She can be 'just friends' with Blaze, keep up with the HPA's intensive training, ignore the country clamouring for the return of King Ron and battle world disasters, all while keeping her own power-triggering panic attacks a secret ... She can be the perfect hero.
As the pressure builds, what more will Jenna have to give up in order to save the world?
For starters, being an official superhero means Jenna and Blaze can work together but not be together, no matter how much they are drawn to each other.
Jenna knows she can make it work. She can be 'just friends' with Blaze, keep up with the HPA's intensive training, ignore the country clamouring for the return of King Ron and battle world disasters, all while keeping her own power-triggering panic attacks a secret ... She can be the perfect hero.
As the pressure builds, what more will Jenna have to give up in order to save the world?
400 pages, Hardcover
Published November 11, 2025
3 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 4, 2025
THE HERO COMPLEX is an action-packed duology finale about how traditions can stifle progress and the pressure on trailblazers.
Now Jenna is aware of her powers, the book can throw her into a lot more action scenes and use her water powers. I loved the underwater drill sequence for how it coupled tension and an intense relationship moment. The Australia sequence was a great look at how super hero powers could be used to help people (and not just punch CGI aliens a la the MCU.) So much happens that it does feel like a movie.
It also really captures what it might be like to be a superhero and just a teen. Jenna is dealing with panic attacks, her best friend's breakup, and her own romantic feelings - and has the eyes on the world on her. I like her voice, it feels like an actual teen.
Where THE LOVE INTEREST examined the sexism present in traditional superhero narratives, THE HERO COMPLEX looks at the pressures and attention on trail blazers. Jenna is asked more about her love life and her clothing than her powers or beliefs. She is criticised for mistakes made due to being new to the job.
I really appreciated that this book (and series) hasn't taken the route of "first female hero fighting against sexism so the men are all awful." There's so much more nuance in it, looking at structures and the reasons we go with or against the status quo.
The second villain of this book is a woman, the main article writer we read who is rapidly anti-Jenna (and many of the reporters focused on clothing) are women. In fact, most of the men with a lot of page time are actually decent. I really liked that this book didn't go for a black and white - that approach is too simplistic and doesn't reflect the complexity of these issues in real life.
It's a great end to this series and I will be picking up whatever Helen writes next!
Now Jenna is aware of her powers, the book can throw her into a lot more action scenes and use her water powers. I loved the underwater drill sequence for how it coupled tension and an intense relationship moment. The Australia sequence was a great look at how super hero powers could be used to help people (and not just punch CGI aliens a la the MCU.) So much happens that it does feel like a movie.
It also really captures what it might be like to be a superhero and just a teen. Jenna is dealing with panic attacks, her best friend's breakup, and her own romantic feelings - and has the eyes on the world on her. I like her voice, it feels like an actual teen.
Where THE LOVE INTEREST examined the sexism present in traditional superhero narratives, THE HERO COMPLEX looks at the pressures and attention on trail blazers. Jenna is asked more about her love life and her clothing than her powers or beliefs. She is criticised for mistakes made due to being new to the job.
I really appreciated that this book (and series) hasn't taken the route of "first female hero fighting against sexism so the men are all awful." There's so much more nuance in it, looking at structures and the reasons we go with or against the status quo.
The second villain of this book is a woman, the main article writer we read who is rapidly anti-Jenna (and many of the reporters focused on clothing) are women. In fact, most of the men with a lot of page time are actually decent. I really liked that this book didn't go for a black and white - that approach is too simplistic and doesn't reflect the complexity of these issues in real life.
It's a great end to this series and I will be picking up whatever Helen writes next!
June 2, 2025
I loved 'The Love Interest' by Helen Comerford, so I had very high expectations for the 2nd book in the series: it exceeded all my wildest dreams! Jenna Ray is still the most relatable teen I've ever come across in literature, and now she's not only dealing with *big feelings* but also serving as the poster girl for the HPA rebrand, AND trying to uncover & stop more dangerous, dastardly plans.
I love the ways Comerford builds out this brilliantly imagined world even further - the language and events in Jenna's world are just distant enough from our own world to feel like fantasy, but also completely recognizable. The author brings keen observations to this book, but it never feels preachy or on-the-nose.
Everything I wanted to know more about after reading 'The Love Interest' was covered in 'The Hero Complex.' I had questions about the Villains, the Diviner, and the EV (which develops in a really interesting direction in this book - the EV drives a lot of the conflict and it is done in a very believable but surprising way). All the things I wondered about could be explored in depth because the world-building in book 1 is so thorough.
Comerford has done a stellar job with this sequel; as a fan of 'The Love Interest' I was chomping at the bit for 'The Hero Complex' and I devoured the book. This is a series for anyone who enjoys great world-building, well-drawn characters, and books that make you say, 'aha!' and 'no way!' For example: I lent my copy of 'The Love Interest' to my partner, who texted me after every chapter with predictions. Also OMG there's resolution on a pretty big plot point from the end of book 1, and it's done absolutely beautifully & heartbreakingly!
I wish for ten more books in the Jenna Ray series, but regardless of what comes next, I'll certainly be reading everything Helen Comerford writes.
I love the ways Comerford builds out this brilliantly imagined world even further - the language and events in Jenna's world are just distant enough from our own world to feel like fantasy, but also completely recognizable. The author brings keen observations to this book, but it never feels preachy or on-the-nose.
Everything I wanted to know more about after reading 'The Love Interest' was covered in 'The Hero Complex.' I had questions about the Villains, the Diviner, and the EV (which develops in a really interesting direction in this book - the EV drives a lot of the conflict and it is done in a very believable but surprising way). All the things I wondered about could be explored in depth because the world-building in book 1 is so thorough.
Comerford has done a stellar job with this sequel; as a fan of 'The Love Interest' I was chomping at the bit for 'The Hero Complex' and I devoured the book. This is a series for anyone who enjoys great world-building, well-drawn characters, and books that make you say, 'aha!' and 'no way!' For example: I lent my copy of 'The Love Interest' to my partner, who texted me after every chapter with predictions. Also OMG there's resolution on a pretty big plot point from the end of book 1, and it's done absolutely beautifully & heartbreakingly!
I wish for ten more books in the Jenna Ray series, but regardless of what comes next, I'll certainly be reading everything Helen Comerford writes.
May 20, 2025
If you are looking for a lighthearted, fun and action packed fantasy read about superheroes, then this is definitely one for your tbr.
I absolutely devoured The Hero Complex and wow, what a ride. I blasted through this book - no pun intended, I promise.
Jenna Ray, who used to be the love interest, is now the actual HERO. But as she quickly discovers, having superpowers doesn't suddenly make life a breeze. In fact, it seems to complicate everything. For starters, being an official superhero means she can work alongside the dashing Blaze, but they can't actually be together, despite their undeniable chemistry.
Comerford does a brilliant job of balancing the high-stakes action with genuine humour and a relatable human element. You'll be rooting for Jenna every step of the way as she navigates the complexities of her new life. This book is a fantastic escape and a refreshing take on the superhero genre. Seriously, pick it up!
Jenna's determination to be the "perfect hero" is both admirable and heartbreaking.
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for gifting me this e-arc for review.
I absolutely devoured The Hero Complex and wow, what a ride. I blasted through this book - no pun intended, I promise.
Jenna Ray, who used to be the love interest, is now the actual HERO. But as she quickly discovers, having superpowers doesn't suddenly make life a breeze. In fact, it seems to complicate everything. For starters, being an official superhero means she can work alongside the dashing Blaze, but they can't actually be together, despite their undeniable chemistry.
Comerford does a brilliant job of balancing the high-stakes action with genuine humour and a relatable human element. You'll be rooting for Jenna every step of the way as she navigates the complexities of her new life. This book is a fantastic escape and a refreshing take on the superhero genre. Seriously, pick it up!
Jenna's determination to be the "perfect hero" is both admirable and heartbreaking.
Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for gifting me this e-arc for review.
April 29, 2025
Humorous, anything but sappy, action packed fantasy for teenagers and up. Superb mix of characters to enjoy. Henna Ray, female teenage lead that suffers from anxiety, has gone from love interest to the Hero Blaze, to now being sidelined (Find that out by reading book one, The Love Interest. Read it first, it’s also a blast). All she wants to do is be as good a Hero as she can be. That’s going to have to be pretty good with a world to save. And, oh, she’s not allowed to kiss Blaze. Which could be a bit of a problem because he grounds her, and more importantly she is head over heels in love with him. But first she has to prove that she’s not a villain, a possibly difficult task. And then save the world. What is a sometimes terrified teenager to do? Helen Comerford has done that very difficult thing. To write an exciting concluding book two that is, I think, even better than book one. Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (Uk and ANZ) for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
August 4, 2025
The Hero Complex is a fantastic conclusion to the duology superhero book!
Jenna is learning how to use her super powers and embrace her new role as a hero. She's also trying to figure out what this means for her and all her relationships, with Blaze, her dad, her mom, her sister, and others. Overall she's just trying to be perfect. No pressure right?
I enjoyed revisiting these characters and this world. I felt this book did a better job than the first in character development. I liked its focus on how hard it is to be the "first" in a field and the challenges that come with that distinction.
4 stars
Jenna is learning how to use her super powers and embrace her new role as a hero. She's also trying to figure out what this means for her and all her relationships, with Blaze, her dad, her mom, her sister, and others. Overall she's just trying to be perfect. No pressure right?
I enjoyed revisiting these characters and this world. I felt this book did a better job than the first in character development. I liked its focus on how hard it is to be the "first" in a field and the challenges that come with that distinction.
4 stars
December 26, 2025
Perfect Conclusion
This was such a great end to a story that absolutely captivated me from the beginning. Blaze and Jenna have wonderful chemistry and I love seeing them interact. It feels natural and there’s no pretentiousness that is so common between love interests in books.
We get to meet a bunch of new characters in this one but they all are well rounded and help propel the story forward. I love Tomas and his commentary had me cracking up whenever he showed up.
Overall I really enjoyed this story. It was a perfect end to a unique and refreshing tale.
Also, I loved the little extra bonus scene at the end! It was absolutely perfect!
This was such a great end to a story that absolutely captivated me from the beginning. Blaze and Jenna have wonderful chemistry and I love seeing them interact. It feels natural and there’s no pretentiousness that is so common between love interests in books.
We get to meet a bunch of new characters in this one but they all are well rounded and help propel the story forward. I love Tomas and his commentary had me cracking up whenever he showed up.
Overall I really enjoyed this story. It was a perfect end to a unique and refreshing tale.
Also, I loved the little extra bonus scene at the end! It was absolutely perfect!
March 3, 2025
This was a masterpiece! You cannot convince me that this book isn’t a metaphor for what is going on in the world right now.
I am almost sad that this is only a two book series but I cannot wait to see what Helen wrote next!
If you enjoy thinly veiled comparison to real life with a bit of YA then you will love this! I stand my by original comparison this book is a more family friendly version of The Boys.
I am almost sad that this is only a two book series but I cannot wait to see what Helen wrote next!
If you enjoy thinly veiled comparison to real life with a bit of YA then you will love this! I stand my by original comparison this book is a more family friendly version of The Boys.
July 26, 2025
This is a great follow-up to The Love Interest following Jenna Ray as she adjusts to being a superhero.
I would definitely recommend reading book 1 first. Otherwise, you won't know what's going on / you'll miss all the back story.
I really like Jenna as a character and I enjoyed how side characters from book 1 became bigger parts in book 2.
Its also great because no swearing or naughty stuff happens, ideal for younger teens too.
I would definitely recommend reading book 1 first. Otherwise, you won't know what's going on / you'll miss all the back story.
I really like Jenna as a character and I enjoyed how side characters from book 1 became bigger parts in book 2.
Its also great because no swearing or naughty stuff happens, ideal for younger teens too.
alc-libro-fm
October 31, 2025(Audio courtesy of Bloomsbury Publishing, Helen Comerford, and the Libro.fm Audiobook Listening Copy Program.)
November 2, 2025
i quite liked this one! i didn't read the previous one so I was obviously missing some context but I still quite liked the way this one went. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
December 3, 2025
es una historia muy buen o que trata de romance en los personajes
August 19, 2025
The Hero Complex is a fun yet pointed follow up to the Love Interest. Whilst the first examined the inherent misogyny in traditonal superhero tales, the second looks at the negative impacts of clinging to harmful traditions.
Jenna has powers now, and she's just about figured out how to use them but superheroes are not allowed to be in relationships, making things with Blaze awkward. They still very much have feelings and they just keep, slipping out. There are a range of new characters along side the returning cast, including Jenna's new German superhero trainer, Tomas and the female journalist Sarah whose own internalised misogyny manifests in every single article she publishes as she tears Jenna down and tries to restore King Ron's reputation. In fact, interestingly Comerford has chosen to make the villians in this book female looking at how some women tear down other women who try to change the status quo and improve life for all.
The action sequences are great fun, whilst also highlighting environmental issues, but without being preachy.
The twists are brilliant and I ove how Helen really illustrates how hard being an internationally famous superhero as a teenager as Jenna battles her anxiety and panic attacks, bad press, terrible costumes, and her boss who is actively working against her.
Honestly this is such a good duology and Jenna and Blaze's romance is adorable very worth the read.
Jenna has powers now, and she's just about figured out how to use them but superheroes are not allowed to be in relationships, making things with Blaze awkward. They still very much have feelings and they just keep, slipping out. There are a range of new characters along side the returning cast, including Jenna's new German superhero trainer, Tomas and the female journalist Sarah whose own internalised misogyny manifests in every single article she publishes as she tears Jenna down and tries to restore King Ron's reputation. In fact, interestingly Comerford has chosen to make the villians in this book female looking at how some women tear down other women who try to change the status quo and improve life for all.
The action sequences are great fun, whilst also highlighting environmental issues, but without being preachy.
The twists are brilliant and I ove how Helen really illustrates how hard being an internationally famous superhero as a teenager as Jenna battles her anxiety and panic attacks, bad press, terrible costumes, and her boss who is actively working against her.
Honestly this is such a good duology and Jenna and Blaze's romance is adorable very worth the read.
October 4, 2025
Ah I loved this duology and I’m so sad to have finished. I hope we get to see more in this world if not with the same characters. This one continues to show the sexism in the superhero industry, taking things that are apparent to this day in the superhero genre (why do so many female superheros wear skirts) and highlighting it with a particularly misogynistic society.
I love how diverse these books are. Not was this one showing the first female superhero in this particular society but she’s also black and shown on the cover with natural hair. There’s also the new head of the HPA who is a non-binary person called Mia. In this book, they start to work together to improve the HPA.
I honestly was gripped towards the end of this book. The action sequences at the end were so compelling. Though it was a little tricky remembering who was on which side, most of the time it was made obvious.
Overall if you’re a superhero fan and you’re not reading these books, I have to ask why not? They’re fantastic.
I love how diverse these books are. Not was this one showing the first female superhero in this particular society but she’s also black and shown on the cover with natural hair. There’s also the new head of the HPA who is a non-binary person called Mia. In this book, they start to work together to improve the HPA.
I honestly was gripped towards the end of this book. The action sequences at the end were so compelling. Though it was a little tricky remembering who was on which side, most of the time it was made obvious.
Overall if you’re a superhero fan and you’re not reading these books, I have to ask why not? They’re fantastic.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews