Superheroes

by M. Jean Pike

At twenty-one, Abby Callahan leaves her parent's home for a rented motel room in Reford's Crossing. She has no friends, let alone a boyfriend, so why did she tell her controlling sister she's bringing a date to a family party? With only one week and no prospects, she needs a miracle.
Rory St. George needs a cashier for the store he manages, and Abby is the perfect choice. When he invites her out, hoping to propose a job offer, she agrees to go---if he will accompany her to a family party. Rory's plans don't include a relationship, but he's drawn to Abby in a way he didn't anticipate.
A series of misfortunes threaten to end their relationship before it begins. With the odds stacked against them, can their newfound love survive? She's new in town. He's from the wrong side of town.
When disaster strikes, can love turn ordinary people into Superheroes?

Genres: Christian

243 pages, ebook

First published August 22, 2025

About the author

Changing seasons. Unexpected blessings. Love that lasts forever. These are a few of M. Jean Pike's favorite things. With a writing career that has spanned two decades, Jean combines an insatiable curiosity about humans and why they do what they do with a keen interest in the quirky and offbeat things in life to bring readers unforgettable tales of life, love, and the inner workings of the human heart. Her short works have been featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Whispers From Heaven, The Lutheran Digest and others. Her latest novella, The Key to Christmas, is available now at Amazon and Pelican Book Group!

Reviews

[Barbara M. Britton · Rating 5 out of 5]

After a bad breakup, Abby decides to live the life that she has always wanted. No more living the life her parents want, or a former boyfriend demands. When she heads off to Redford's Crossing, she hopes God will give her wisdom on a future.

Rory has taken on the role of father and authority figure in the lives of his brothers. One remains at home and needs a lot of love and support, as well as his mother who hasn't made it to the big leagues in her own. After the death of his former girlfriend, Rory plans on staying single until he meets Abby.

Working together has its perks but also its challenges. As Rory and Abby fall in love, a tragedy happens.

Can Rory overcome his anger, and can Abby offer grace as her dreams succeed.

A page-turning, faith-filled, sweet romance from Pike will have you smiling at the end of the story. Don't miss this novel filled with super-heroic characters.

I received a copy of this story from the author, but all opinions and review notes are my own.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Superheroes by M. Jean Pike is a beautiful book that reminds you of God’s Faithfulness and Provision to us. Abby has moved to the town of Redford’s Crossing to get out from under her Parent’s thumb. For the first time in her life Abby has Peace following God wherever that may lead, even if it may mean living in a sketchy apartment that used to be a sketchy motel and working at Caruso’s Quick Stop. Abby’s Family seems to believe she cannot survive without their input or that she won’t be successful if she’s not following their plans. To get her Family off of her back, she lets them know she will be bringing a date to her Parents 25th anniversary party. Abby’s only problem is, she doesn’t have a date…yet. Rory has been in Redford’s Crossing all of his life. Life hasn’t always been easy for Rory, but from a young age Rory has always helped out his family. Rory enjoys working at Grimley’s Farm and Seed Supply. Rory is also a regular customer of Caruso’s Quick Stop for two reasons: 1.) Rory knows the owner and 2.) Rory likes Abby and her work ethic. One day while talking, Rory and Abby decide to hang out, with Rory even attending Abby’s Parents anniversary party. Shortly thereafter, after standing up for what’s right, Abby is forced to quit her job and her apartment becomes unsafe for her to live in. Despite it all, God shows His Faithfulness and Provision through a new job with Rory, a new place to live, and finding a Church and Worship Team that becomes family. As Rory and Abby continue to hang out, their friendship quickly becomes something more. But the unimaginable happens and threatens what Abby and Rory have begun to build.

Superheroes by M. Jean Pike is one of those books that I didn’t know I needed! The Message within the pages of Superheroes was a timely read, encouraging me when I needed it most. I also thought the title of Superheroes was perfect for the book and how the theme of Superheroes was woven through the plot. I love meeting Abby and Rory! I admired Abby and Rory for how much they have respectively been through and deciding to Follow Christ, allowing Him to work through them and their mistakes, Redeeming them in the process. I love how Ms. Pike weaves ups and downs and the surprises of life that the Reader doesn’t necessarily expect into Superheroes, mixing God’s Truth in. I love how Abby Trusted and Depended on God to take care of her. I love that Rory bent over backwards to do what is right, sacrificing his wellbeing in the process. I found most of Abby’s Family to be annoying, which I believe was Ms. Pike’s intent. Rory’s Family had been through the wringer of life and doing their best to come out the other side, no matter what is thrown at them. (My favorite character was Olly, so make sure you read Superheroes for all of the details!) I love the lesson of how what we may see as life’s setbacks, may be God’s Way of accomplishing His Dreams for our lives and His Purpose! I highly recommend Superheroes by M. Jean Pike!

Have you read Superheroes? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank M. Jean Pike for giving me a copy of Superheroes to review as well as the information needed for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

If the town of Redford’s Crossing were a real place and not just a figment of author M. Jean Pike’s imagination, I would be fortunate enough to already count several friends among its population, thanks to the first two books in this contemporary romance series. Rochelle, Sandy, Jace, Harper, Dalton, and Aunt Clara (among others) warmly welcomed me back on this third visit, and I enjoyed reconnecting with these characters and seeing what life looks like for them now. I’m also delighted to have added some new fictional friends to my ‘Redford’s Crossing address book’ after reading Superheroes, people like Rory and Abby and Olly – just to name a few.

Rory needs a reliable employee. Abby needs a date to her parents’ anniversary dinner. They’ve become quasi-friends over the time that she’s been working at the Quick Stop shop where he gets lunch twice a week, so it appears they could be the answer to each other’s prayers. Also sounds like the beginnings of a sweet romance, to me! And Pike definitely delivers one, complete with some swoony kisses that sparked with a gentle chemistry. I enjoyed watching this endearing couple fall in love despite their having to navigate some daunting obstacles to a happily-ever-after. I also found the contrast in their family dynamics to be unexpectedly profound. At first glance Rory comes from the more dysfunctional background but Abby is the most isolated from hers. And while Rory’s mom and siblings have always depended on him to take care of them, Abby’s family doesn’t even believe she’s able to take care of herself. This intriguing push-and-pull between over-dependence and underestimation kept me invested in the larger story being told here too – a moving and grace-filled exploration of what it means to trust in the sovereignty of God.

Bottom Line: Superheroes proves once again that author M. Jean Pike creates easy-to-root-for characters whose textured stories touch the heart and point readers to Jesus. Brimming with hope and warmth, this novel swoops in with some unexpected twists too. I enjoyed getting to know both Rory and Abby, though I must say that Rory’s brother Olly took up the most space in my heart this time around. (But can I just add that the word-collector in me appreciated the little touches Pike added to Abby’s perspective in keeping with her love of music? So clever and poetic!) The author also does a wonderful job in this series, and in Superheroes specifically, of keeping the tone light (but not trite) even while realistically weaving tougher topics (like autism, poverty, incarceration, and substance abuse) into the narrative. And thanks to the hints that she dropped about future couples in the crosshairs, I am already looking forward to the stories still to come.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Clare Revell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby left home to escape her parents controlling her. When she needs a date for a family dinner, it coincides with Rory asking her out. When she needs a job, Rory also comes to her rescue and even though it means they can only be friends, she accepts the position. With a cast of wonderful costars, can Abby and Rory navigate their way through disaster to become superheroes. Not giving anything away, you have to read it yourself to find out.

[Sean S.]

A sweet yet stirring story of chance encounters and fragile hope, where love blossoms in the unlikeliest of places and proves stronger than setbacks.

[Stephanie’s Ninth Suitcase · Rating 4 out of 5]

Scripture Connection
He who made the Pleiades and Orion,
who turns midnight into dawn
and darkens day into night,
who calls for the waters of the sea
and pours them out over the face of the land—
the Lord is His name.

Amos 5:8

Spiritual Themes
Both Abby and Rory are Christians, and spiritual content is dispersed throughout the novel. Stars appear as a recurring symbol of God’s Sovereignty, and the book opens with the above verse from Amos about God creating the constellations.

Abby and Rory both pray: in the midst of great difficulty and also regarding more commonplace needs. For instance, at the start of the novel, Abby is praying for help finding a date to attend a family gathering. While Abby is praying for this because she told her sister that she already had a date, I do find it refreshing that Abby is bringing her romantic relationships to the Lord.

Characters find mutual encouragement in fellowship, and they also benefit from the messages preached at church. For instance, one of the pastor’s sermons draws Abby back to the truth that she is in relationship with the same One who made the stars!

What I Liked
Olly
I immediately fell in love with Olly, Rory’s nineteen-year-old brother. Olly is autistic and brings joy to his community by making cards for his friends. Olly’s cards feature coloring pages from superhero comic books, and Olly has a habit of renaming popular superheroes– in addition to assigning superhero handles to his friends. The girl, for instance, he names “Glow Girl.” Olly’s kind ministry plays a major role in the the book’s thematic content, including the title.

Olly’s character was extremely believable, with his comments reading as true-to-life– and with good reason! I was absolutely delighted to learn, in a recent post from author M. Jean Pike, that Olly is based on her real-life nephew, Michael. And, Pike dedicated the book to Michael!

Also on the topic of Olly, one of my favorite parts of the book is when Olly presents Abby with a drawing of Jesus, for her fridge. Olly’s illustration of Jesus feeding the five thousand includes an unexpected character: Jesus’ dog. I really liked the inclusion of the dog, and the ensuing conversation: ” ‘I didn’t know Jesus had a dog.’ ‘He does.'” So delightful!

Pacing
Prior to Superheroes, I had read one other work by the author: a novella called The Key to Christmas. Like the novella, Superheroes maintains excellent pacing. Once I started reading, I quickly became engrossed in the story, which seamlessly integrates current action with gradual unveiling of the characters’ backstories. I appreciate Pike’s strategic storytelling in a contemporary romance, which lends a subtle air of mystery (even though the novel would not be categorized as a mystery).

Nuanced Relationship
Pike portrays Abby and Rory as real people whose past experiences shape their approaches to present relationships. Abby is determined to demonstrate her independence, while Rory brings a high measure of protectiveness. These opposing qualities present some moments, and even longer periods, of friction in the relationship. As a result, the two must navigate their differences, and there’s also a solid discussion/emphasis on the fact that relationships take hard work. I do appreciate the placement of this discussion in the story, as this approach favors realism, rather than “fluff.”

Secondary characters, likewise, are written with compassion and nuance. When referencing characters’ choices and behaviors, Pike examines how their personal histories shaped the trajectories of their current lives. In a simple, honest description of a minor character, Pike writes, “but she wasn’t crazy. She wanted to be noticed. She wanted to matter. They all did” (p. 79).

I appreciate that the author uses this opportunity, not to showcase how the character is different from others (in terms of upbringing and her tendency to make up stories about herself), but rather to find common ground. While readers may not resonate with every decision this character has made, they can empathize with the desire “to matter.” I’d like to see more of this compassionate, leveling-the-playing-field, type of storytelling in works of Christian fiction.

Title
Pike does an excellent job of tracing the “Superhero” theme throughout the story, with different characters offering differing lenses through which to view the concept of “superheroes.” Olly honors and calls forth the potential in his friends, presenting them with coloring pages of superheroes, based on the qualities he sees in his friends. Olly also nicknames Abby “Glow Girl.”

Rory, we learn, has a history of trying to take on the role of superhero. He stepped into a father role for his younger brothers, and his need to “save” others affects his romantic relationships, as well.

For Abby, being a superhero is less about actively seeking to save others and more about responding with grace, kindness and bravery when she encounters situations that merit courage and love.

Content Notes
Kissing content was a bit detailed, for me. There are several kissing scenes, including a moment of physical attraction described in terms of “animal magnetism.” While physical attraction / physicality is used as a vehicle to discuss abstinence (characters recognize the need to “draw the line” and establish boundaries in their relationship), I would have preferred less of this content.

There are a few (potentially) colloquial uses of the Lord’s name, as well as a “g–z.”

There’s also a line about Olly’s ability to comprehend what Rory is trying to explain. The internal dialogue is realistic, especially given Rory’s current frustration, but also a bit hurtful.

Trigger warning for tragic physical impairment due to a fire.

Respectful Discussion
I struggled a little bit with the (pre-epilogue) ending. Upon reuniting, the characters share a romantic kiss, with the kiss being described, almost, as solving their personal and relationship problems.

Even setting aside the idea that the kiss has the power to do this, I’m uncomfortable with the emphasis on the characters being the solution to each other’s problems. With that said, I do feel that the epilogue does bring some balance, in terms of representing the challenges of relationships, as well as returning focus upward.

Recommendation Status
With solid pacing and a compassionate narrative lens, Superheroes is an inspiring romance that explores themes of loyalty and strength in the context of romantic relationships. Concurrent themes of God’s Sovereignty and provision round out this sweet story.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. Opinions expressed are my own.

[Susan Lyttek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just completed the journey through the pages with Rory and Abby and it did not disappoint.

Abby is trying to make a way for herself after escaping an emotionally abusive boyfriend. She truly wants to give life a go based on her own merits. As the youngest in her family, her well-meaning parents have tried to direct her too long. The room she can afford is in a sketchy neighborhood, but she’s bound and determined to make it enough as she works part-time and goes to school. She dreams of being a music therapist—touching the hurting with the sounds of her guitar.

The problem at the outset is her lack of a plus one for her parents’ anniversary shindig. Embarrassed at the possibility of being ridiculed again, she prays a desperate prayer. She asks God to intervene and provide her a date and make it clear who that should be.
Rory, meanwhile, has already been trying to think of a way to approach Abby. Not only does he find her attractive, he likes her work ethic and the feed store he manages needs a better cashier. So, when he asks her to go to a show at the university about the stars on the same night as the fancy dinner for Abby’s parents, it seems an answer to prayer on both sides.
Unfortunately, humans being what they are, some of Abby’s family share about how her former fiancé got Abby in trouble with the law and Abby’s sister shares that Rory’s brother is in jail. The rumors keep them apart until Abby sees a notice for a church praise band and tries out.
It is only then that they realize that they have faith in common.
Of course, that is not the end of the matter. There are other trials and obstacles for them to overcome before they can be the couple God intends them to be.
As a bonus, Rory’s younger brother who has disabilities, Olly, steals the show on more than one occasion. His way of viewing the world and seeing the superheroes in the people around him is refreshing and occasionally humorous.
Lastly, I enjoyed a glimpse of Jean Pike’s previous characters at the Blessings Bistro and the hints about future stories for Chance and Shyla and Lindsey and Jett.

[Gail Pallotta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rory worked his way from poverty to a store manager while taking care of his mother and brothers. To this day, he’s a protector of his brother, Oly, who has a learning disability. Looking for a cashier for the store, Rory meets Abby. A young woman who’s new in town, she needs a job. While Abby’s sister has plenty of material wealth, Abby’s working her way through school. Abby doesn’t even have a date to take to the family party her sister’s giving. When Rory asks Abby to take the cashier’s job, she agrees if he will go to the family party. The attraction the two of them share when they meet sparks a relationship.
I especially enjoyed the closeness and caring for each in Rory’s family. The love Rory has for his mother, his handicapped brother and other siblings spills over into the way he handles everyday situations as well as tragedies. While romance blossoms between he and Abby, difficulties cloud their lives. I kept turning pages to see if they would overcome the hardships.
This book has characters with a strong faith in God plus a message of faith, hope and acceptance of people for who they are. I highly recommend it for people who enjoy Christian books about those who struggle in life, but stay strong in their faith. Will Rory and Abby overcome the odds against them and end up together?

[Karen Malley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superheroes is set in the little town of Redford’s Crossing–a town chock-full of amazing people. Abby and Rory have a lot to deal with in their lives, but I love how Ms. Pike surrounds them with so many godly men and women to help them along the way. They are relatable people, with believable problems and emotions.
While the book has the expected (and satisfying) happy ending, there are enough twists and turns along the way to keep you engaged and surprised. Superheroes is a wholesome Christian novel that will inspire your faith and make you wish you lived in Redford’s Crossing. Abby and Rory are wonderful characters, but what really gives the book 5 stars is the supporting cast. Abby and Rory both have to navigate complicated family dynamics, and we’re drawn into their siblings’ stories. Of course, Olly is my favorite, but Abby and Rory are a close tie for second.
This is the third book I’ve read from Ms. Pike that is set in Redford’s Crossing, and some of her previous characters make an appearance, but this is a standalone story that will have you cheering for Abby and Rory to find happiness together.

[Elisabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m notoriously picky about faith-based fiction. As a Christian, I appreciate stories that explore spiritual themes — but too often, these books feel forced, with unrealistic portrayals of faith and characters who are either unrelatable or unlikeable.

When Jean offered to send me an advance copy of Superheroes, she made it clear she welcomed an honest review. Eek. I felt the pressure — wanting to be truthful while navigating my usual reservations about traditional faith literature.

But I shouldn’t have worried. I devoured the book in two sittings and found myself genuinely rooting for each of the characters. The writing is warm and compelling. The characters are fully realized, their backstories thoughtfully developed, and the moral arc is both believable and deeply satisfying.

I have nothing but praise for what Jean has accomplished with this book — pointing readers to Jesus, while reminding us that everyone faces challenges, and none is too big for our Rescuer.

[Penelope Marzec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby hopes for independence from her overbearing parents. But with their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary coming up, Abby intends to show up with a date. So, she prays for one and gets Rory, a handsome feed store manager, who thinks she seems like the reliable worker he could use. He agrees to go to the anniversary dinner with her but that turns out to be a disaster. Abby’s grandmother knows of Rory’s drunken father and Rory learns that Abby lost her driver’s license. That would have been the end of their friendship but one day Abby walks into Rory’s church to audition as a singer. Rory is impressed and his misgiving about her vanish. Abby gets a job at the feed store and their friendship blossoms but there is one rule they cannot break despite their growing feelings. Still, a far worse stumbling block threatens and it will take all of Abby’s prayers and resolve to overcome. This is story with a heaping dose of heart!

[Erin Stevenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby and Rory are two hurting people from simple backgrounds. The description of Rory’s hardscrabble upbringing pulled at my heartstrings, but the thing that stood out most was his memories of simple joys, ice cream on a summer evening with his family. It was a reminder that these are the things children remember from their childhood.

Abby is working hard to make her way in the world as a young adult. No spoilers, but at a point early in the story, she had a big decision to make. I was rooting hard for her, and I wanted her to stand up for herself.

The plot is good, but the characters make this story shine. Oh, how I loved Rory’s brother Olly! I love catching up with characters from earlier books set in Redford’s Crossing and already have a couple of ideas who might be featured in the next installment. If you haven’t made a trip yet to this charming small town, pack your bags now!

[Kirsten Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abby desperately wants to make her own way in the world, away from her meddlesome parents and judgemental sister. This desire for independence leads her to take up residence in a seedy hotel-turned apartment complex while making ends meet with work at a local convenience store. At the store, Abby meets the dashing Rory St. George, a man who shares her faith in God. But Superheroes is not a simple story with an easy happily-ever-after. M. Jean Pike takes Abby and Rory through a rollercoaster of obstacles, demonstrating that difficulty forges character, faith, and love.

[Ada Jenkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a sweet and gentle romance! I really liked the contrasting personalities of the main characters, Abbey and Rory. Abbey was easy to root for, and I could relate to her situation of wanting to be independent and break free from the controlling influence of her parents. What an uplifting story - I couldn’t recommend this book highly enough!

[Carol James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished Superheroes by M. Jean Pike, and I highly recommend it! Ms. Pike has crafted a lovely story of faith, determination, and love. Once I started the book, I couldn’t put it down. And the title? It’s perfect for the novel.
Abby Callahan has left home and moved to Redford’s Crossing. Coming from a wealthy family, she wants to get away from living under the thumb of her demanding mother and prove she’s capable of living on her own and supporting herself.
Rory St. George also lives in Redford Crossing in a meager apartment with his mother and challenged younger brother, Olly. With no other man in the house, the burden of providing for his mother and brother falls upon Rory’s shoulders.
The first time they meet, Rory asks her on a date, but Abby is trying to find a second-hand dress appropriate to wear to her parents’ anniversary dinner…and a date to accompany her. She can hardly believe it when Rory volunteers.
But Abby worries that her mother’s arrogant personality will push Rory away before they even come to know each other well.
And…I won’t tell you any more.
This is a beautiful story of faithfulness and love. I was surprised by the ending, that requires them to trust God and make some tough decisions. (I won’t spoil it for you.)
Oh, and I loved the return of some of Ms. Pike’s characters from King of Hearts…