What do you think?
Rate this book
Sidekicks
Five years ago, Nikki Caldwell’s world imploded when her father—beloved superhero The Eagle—broke his one rule and killed his archnemesis, Nightshade. Wracked with guilt, he vanished, leaving behind the teenage crime-fighting team he’d assembled… and a daughter burdened with a secret: the man he killed wasn’t Nightshade.
In the years that followed, Nikki buried her sidekick past. But when Nightshade resurfaces, it’s clear it’s with a deadly new plan: to eliminate every member of The Eagle’s former team. As time runs out, Nikki is forced to track down her estranged teammates who have scattered across the country, each trying to escape their past…and each other. Reconnecting means confronting old wounds, buried secrets, and the one truth none of them are ready for: everything they thought they knew about Nightshade was a lie, and the truth is darker than they expected.
Nikki thought she’d left that life behind.
But some legacies don’t die—they just wait for their moment.
In the years that followed, Nikki buried her sidekick past. But when Nightshade resurfaces, it’s clear it’s with a deadly new plan: to eliminate every member of The Eagle’s former team. As time runs out, Nikki is forced to track down her estranged teammates who have scattered across the country, each trying to escape their past…and each other. Reconnecting means confronting old wounds, buried secrets, and the one truth none of them are ready for: everything they thought they knew about Nightshade was a lie, and the truth is darker than they expected.
Nikki thought she’d left that life behind.
But some legacies don’t die—they just wait for their moment.
298 pages, ebook
Published August 28, 2025
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
August 18, 2025
I will preface this by saying I am close friends with Ashley, and she told me about this book more than three years ago before Toby existed. I have the memes I made years ago when I decided Toby was going to be my eventual book boyfriend. You know the one with Rosa Diaz from Brooklyn Nine-Nine holding the puppy? Instead of Arlo, I crudely scribbled it out and replaced it with Toby. I am also the Jess for whom the book is dedicated to. If you want to take my entire review with a massive grain of salt, I don't blame you. But this book is so freaking amazing, and if you don't pick it up you will never know the amazing story you're missing!
This book is what so many superhero stories wish they were. It has all the elements you're looking for. Action, fight scenes, car chases, race-against-the-clock stakes, found family, complex characters. But have you ever read a story that delves into the trauma sidekicks struggle with? Everyone is messed up. Seriously. They all need a hug. And therapy. So many hours of therapy. They were teenagers and children put into impossible situations, then they were abandoned, and they all split off.
Ashley also writes some of the best sibling banter I have ever read. ("You're killing people again, Zain? We've talked about this. Multiple times. We. Don't. Kill. People.")
Don't even get me started on the second chance romance! I could probably take up the rest of the character limit here talking about how much I love Nikki and Toby. We're talking childhood sweethearts-to exes-to handler/handled(? lol)-to lovers. Toby is so swoony. My sweet blue alien boy really sees her. And he helps her see herself, and understand she's the best leader for the team - despite how reluctant she is to take up the job. Their first kiss is sweet and takes a hilarious turn. And both he and Nikki are asexual. All my fellow ace babes will really appreciate this romance. Asexual people can - and do - fall in love. It just may look a little different than allo relationships.
If you're not ready for Superhero Summer to be over, you need to pick this book up!
**I received an ARC of this book from the author who I love dearly!**
This book is what so many superhero stories wish they were. It has all the elements you're looking for. Action, fight scenes, car chases, race-against-the-clock stakes, found family, complex characters. But have you ever read a story that delves into the trauma sidekicks struggle with? Everyone is messed up. Seriously. They all need a hug. And therapy. So many hours of therapy. They were teenagers and children put into impossible situations, then they were abandoned, and they all split off.
Ashley also writes some of the best sibling banter I have ever read. ("You're killing people again, Zain? We've talked about this. Multiple times. We. Don't. Kill. People.")
Don't even get me started on the second chance romance! I could probably take up the rest of the character limit here talking about how much I love Nikki and Toby. We're talking childhood sweethearts-to exes-to handler/handled(? lol)-to lovers. Toby is so swoony. My sweet blue alien boy really sees her. And he helps her see herself, and understand she's the best leader for the team - despite how reluctant she is to take up the job. Their first kiss is sweet and takes a hilarious turn. And both he and Nikki are asexual. All my fellow ace babes will really appreciate this romance. Asexual people can - and do - fall in love. It just may look a little different than allo relationships.
If you're not ready for Superhero Summer to be over, you need to pick this book up!
**I received an ARC of this book from the author who I love dearly!**
July 13, 2026
This review contains spoilers.
This book sets promises that it doesn’t really deliver on. The initial prologue was fascinating to me, it set the stage for a high-action, high-drama story, but what resulted from the on was about 80% “getting the team together” with way too much infighting and 20% solving a mystery about a supervillain that gets barely any screen time and no real intrigue. That should really be flipped, with the exposition being getting the team together, and then the rest of the book focusing on the actual investigation and the threats of this supervillain.
I understand that the story’s core focus was to tell the tale of a family trying to reconcile after their dad disappeared, but there were too many variables and they weren’t all that well executed. Why were superpowers an aspect of the story if they’re seldom used? The murder cult seemed like an odd addition, given that it was relevant at the beginning, completely irrelevant through the middle, and then comes back at the very end. The “betrayal” wasn’t well foreshadowed and honestly did not seem to make any real sense, because it wasn’t even Zain, more so as it was this odd, random issue of him being haunted?? The lore was poorly integrated and made for a very disjointed read.
There were so many typos throughout, too, and the quality of prose was rather unimpressive. A few more passes of developmental and line-level revisions would have done this book well, I think. Idk, i just didn’t vibe with this. 😭
This book sets promises that it doesn’t really deliver on. The initial prologue was fascinating to me, it set the stage for a high-action, high-drama story, but what resulted from the on was about 80% “getting the team together” with way too much infighting and 20% solving a mystery about a supervillain that gets barely any screen time and no real intrigue. That should really be flipped, with the exposition being getting the team together, and then the rest of the book focusing on the actual investigation and the threats of this supervillain.
I understand that the story’s core focus was to tell the tale of a family trying to reconcile after their dad disappeared, but there were too many variables and they weren’t all that well executed. Why were superpowers an aspect of the story if they’re seldom used? The murder cult seemed like an odd addition, given that it was relevant at the beginning, completely irrelevant through the middle, and then comes back at the very end. The “betrayal” wasn’t well foreshadowed and honestly did not seem to make any real sense, because it wasn’t even Zain, more so as it was this odd, random issue of him being haunted?? The lore was poorly integrated and made for a very disjointed read.
There were so many typos throughout, too, and the quality of prose was rather unimpressive. A few more passes of developmental and line-level revisions would have done this book well, I think. Idk, i just didn’t vibe with this. 😭
February 6, 2026
Sidekicks was a fast-paced, emotional ride that blends superhero action with deep character relationships in a really engaging way. I loved how the story focused not just on saving the day, but on the aftermath of being young heroes — the guilt, distance, and secrets that pulled the team apart over the years.
Nikki was a strong and relatable main character, and her struggle between wanting a normal life and being pulled back into her past felt real and compelling. The found family dynamic was definitely the highlight for me. Watching the estranged teammates slowly reconnect, confront old wounds, and learn to trust each other again added so much heart to the story.
The mystery surrounding Nightshade kept me hooked, and the twists were genuinely surprising. The pacing stayed tight with plenty of tension, especially as the danger closed in and the stakes kept rising.
While a few moments felt slightly predictable, the emotional payoff and character growth more than made up for it. Overall, Sidekicks is a fun, heartfelt superhero story with darker undertones that fans of found family, second chances, and action-packed YA will really enjoy.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a unique superhero read with depth and emotion!
Nikki was a strong and relatable main character, and her struggle between wanting a normal life and being pulled back into her past felt real and compelling. The found family dynamic was definitely the highlight for me. Watching the estranged teammates slowly reconnect, confront old wounds, and learn to trust each other again added so much heart to the story.
The mystery surrounding Nightshade kept me hooked, and the twists were genuinely surprising. The pacing stayed tight with plenty of tension, especially as the danger closed in and the stakes kept rising.
While a few moments felt slightly predictable, the emotional payoff and character growth more than made up for it. Overall, Sidekicks is a fun, heartfelt superhero story with darker undertones that fans of found family, second chances, and action-packed YA will really enjoy.
Highly recommend if you’re looking for a unique superhero read with depth and emotion!
January 28, 2026
Nikki Caldwell was a sidekick, when her mentor killed his arc enemy and disappeared. She retired, took over the company and carried on. Now a teammate is dead (Brittney) and Nightshade is hunting the rest of them.
Nikki is Catwoman's daughter but basically Cass Cain, her brother Zain is Damien Wayne pretty much. Third bro, Nate, sounds like Nightwing, and married Babs, Kitty in this. Grey is kind of a tech, gender flipped Tim Drake.
Nancy, the family maid, is female Alfred, including NOT having a code against killing.
They find Britt's brother, who's pretty much Azrael, then track down where Dad disappeared to.
Battle Nightshade, wrap up.
Pretty solidly a 2.5 out of 5. The book suffers from not really fleshing out the characters enough... it's a interesting world, but that's it.
Nikki is Catwoman's daughter but basically Cass Cain, her brother Zain is Damien Wayne pretty much. Third bro, Nate, sounds like Nightwing, and married Babs, Kitty in this. Grey is kind of a tech, gender flipped Tim Drake.
Nancy, the family maid, is female Alfred, including NOT having a code against killing.
They find Britt's brother, who's pretty much Azrael, then track down where Dad disappeared to.
Battle Nightshade, wrap up.
Pretty solidly a 2.5 out of 5. The book suffers from not really fleshing out the characters enough... it's a interesting world, but that's it.
July 8, 2026
I have to say this is my first superhero/action packed book. I won this copy of a book in a thread or Instagram giveaway by the author Ashley Skolrud and I have to say she has an amazing talent, she can honestly suck you into the world she writes and have you wanting more.
Sidekicks is a fast paced superhero story centered on the eagles; a bunch of sidekicks. They have always wondered what happened to their dad and where he disappeared to after the death of their mom. You have Nikki who took over after her dad’s disappearance, and the others left; her brothers and sisters. She did the best she could, she also ghosted Toby the boy she was falling in love with.
Follow Nikki and Toby’s story and the others, you won’t be disappointed it truly is an amazing book to read and submerge yourself into this world.
Sidekicks is a fast paced superhero story centered on the eagles; a bunch of sidekicks. They have always wondered what happened to their dad and where he disappeared to after the death of their mom. You have Nikki who took over after her dad’s disappearance, and the others left; her brothers and sisters. She did the best she could, she also ghosted Toby the boy she was falling in love with.
Follow Nikki and Toby’s story and the others, you won’t be disappointed it truly is an amazing book to read and submerge yourself into this world.
September 14, 2025
This book grabbed me from the very first page. Nikki’s struggle with her father’s past and the secret she carries gives the story real emotional depth. The reunion of the old team is messy, heartfelt, and filled with tension, making every scene feel alive.
The Nightshade twist completely caught me off guard and kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Fast paced, full of heart, and packed with surprises. If you enjoy superhero stories with real emotion and high stakes, this one is a must read
The Nightshade twist completely caught me off guard and kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Fast paced, full of heart, and packed with surprises. If you enjoy superhero stories with real emotion and high stakes, this one is a must read
August 17, 2025
Sidekicks brought some refreshing and really fun elements to a classic superhero story!
Ashley fleshes out incredible characters that continue to develop and reshape over the course of an immersive and addictive tale.
Sidekicks delivers a nice dose of feels while still making you crack up at certain spots, and it’s a hell of an addition to Ashley’s already impressive, entertaining, and refreshing collection of published works.
Ashley fleshes out incredible characters that continue to develop and reshape over the course of an immersive and addictive tale.
Sidekicks delivers a nice dose of feels while still making you crack up at certain spots, and it’s a hell of an addition to Ashley’s already impressive, entertaining, and refreshing collection of published works.
October 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
Omg this was so fun! And so unique. I loved the plot and I really like the writing. It’s so funny and enjoyable.
There were plot twists that I did NOT see coming and gasped out loud multiple times.
There is zero romance in this book (besides 2 characters deciding to get back together at the end and sharing one kiss) and normally I don’t like books without romance, but again this was super fun. Loved it!
Omg this was so fun! And so unique. I loved the plot and I really like the writing. It’s so funny and enjoyable.
There were plot twists that I did NOT see coming and gasped out loud multiple times.
There is zero romance in this book (besides 2 characters deciding to get back together at the end and sharing one kiss) and normally I don’t like books without romance, but again this was super fun. Loved it!
December 22, 2025
Not a book i would’ve typically picked up but i met the author at a book festival and gave it a try! I was pleasantly surprised with it and the plot twists at the end kept it very entertaining! Good read for my fantasy/superhero lovers
June 28, 2026
When Kids Carry the Weight: A Book I Couldn't Put Down
I really liked the book's theme because it deals with how responsibility shifts to the children when parents aren't around. It’s a very well-written book that I just couldn't put down.
I really liked the book's theme because it deals with how responsibility shifts to the children when parents aren't around. It’s a very well-written book that I just couldn't put down.
September 1, 2025
This book just wasn't for me.
September 27, 2025
entertaining and relatable! a few twists I wasn't expecting that kept me on my toes! definitely excited for the second book!!!!
October 10, 2025
“Survive first, process later. Can’t really do shit if we’re all dead.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ashley’s writing is the perfect balance of heart, humor, and heartbreak. Sidekicks is no exception. A found family story wrapped in childhood trauma, kids forced to grow up too fast, and the impossible pressure of being a superhero before you even know who you are.
I loved this story! Nikki and Toby forever ❤️
Nikki is instantly relatable, and the banter among the other characters is perfectly on point. And of course, it wouldn’t be an @ashley.skolrud book without a touch of twisted. Those poor birdies!
If you love character-driven superhero stories with depth, darkness, and a whole lot of heart, Sidekicks needs to be on your TBR!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ashley’s writing is the perfect balance of heart, humor, and heartbreak. Sidekicks is no exception. A found family story wrapped in childhood trauma, kids forced to grow up too fast, and the impossible pressure of being a superhero before you even know who you are.
I loved this story! Nikki and Toby forever ❤️
Nikki is instantly relatable, and the banter among the other characters is perfectly on point. And of course, it wouldn’t be an @ashley.skolrud book without a touch of twisted. Those poor birdies!
If you love character-driven superhero stories with depth, darkness, and a whole lot of heart, Sidekicks needs to be on your TBR!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews