What do you think?
Rate this book
Men of Vanguard #1
Infamous Heart
Bears clad in leather, steamy romps, and a city where heroes need saving.
Glorifying superheroes is my job. Being seduced by one is an occupational perk.
One day I'm a mild mannered designer for Vanguard's premiere superhero magazine. The next I'm fired for finally standing up for myself. Lesson learned. My career is now as successful as my love life.
I storm out of the office and straight into Sebastian Taylor. Successful. Confident. Fills out those pants like it should be illegal. Working for a rival magazine, he has no reason to give me the time of day. Then this hunk hands me his business card like I'm someone worth knowing.
When I call, I can't tell if it's a job interview or a date, either way it ends with a bang. In this city, you can’t throw a rock without hitting a supervillain and, for reasons I can’t fathom, one of them wants me dead.
Turns out Sebastian has gifts of his own. Extraordinary ones. The kind that could make him the hero this city needs. He just doesn't believe it yet. It's my job to convince him.
It's just another Tuesday in Vanguard City.
Infamous Heart is a M/M, heartfelt adventure with an HEA and no cliffhangers, featuring leather clad heroes, steamy romps, found family, and two men who bring out the best in each other.
The Men of Vanguard Universe:
Heroes of Vanguard
* Infamous Heart
* Infernal Justice
* Iridescent Lust
* Invincible Nemesis
Villains of Vanguard
* Corrupted Desire
* Reckless Impulse
* Sinister Passion
Grunts of Vanguard
* Breathless Recruiter
* Seductive Architect
* Unmasked Agent
Glorifying superheroes is my job. Being seduced by one is an occupational perk.
One day I'm a mild mannered designer for Vanguard's premiere superhero magazine. The next I'm fired for finally standing up for myself. Lesson learned. My career is now as successful as my love life.
I storm out of the office and straight into Sebastian Taylor. Successful. Confident. Fills out those pants like it should be illegal. Working for a rival magazine, he has no reason to give me the time of day. Then this hunk hands me his business card like I'm someone worth knowing.
When I call, I can't tell if it's a job interview or a date, either way it ends with a bang. In this city, you can’t throw a rock without hitting a supervillain and, for reasons I can’t fathom, one of them wants me dead.
Turns out Sebastian has gifts of his own. Extraordinary ones. The kind that could make him the hero this city needs. He just doesn't believe it yet. It's my job to convince him.
It's just another Tuesday in Vanguard City.
Infamous Heart is a M/M, heartfelt adventure with an HEA and no cliffhangers, featuring leather clad heroes, steamy romps, found family, and two men who bring out the best in each other.
The Men of Vanguard Universe:
Heroes of Vanguard
* Infamous Heart
* Infernal Justice
* Iridescent Lust
* Invincible Nemesis
Villains of Vanguard
* Corrupted Desire
* Reckless Impulse
* Sinister Passion
Grunts of Vanguard
* Breathless Recruiter
* Seductive Architect
* Unmasked Agent
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2021
About the author
Ryder O'Malley
26 books102 followersRyder acts as if he doesn’t watch sappy movies. He won’t admit to daydreaming about ex-boyfriends and asking “What if…” He’s a closet romantic who gets anxious about first dates. In a world filled with turmoil, he’s wants to drown in warm, fuzzy moments that make his heart swell. He loves bringing his chaotic dating life to the forefront. While he calls himself a romance writer, he likes to think of it as fanfic about his life. Someday… it’ll become a reality. Until then, he’ll invent dreamy men that make him tear up at their insistence that love always wins.
Ryder lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, living his happily ever-after. When he’s not writing, he can be found working on book covers (which means he’s admiring huskular bears with more than a little chest hair.)
Ryder lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, living his happily ever-after. When he’s not writing, he can be found working on book covers (which means he’s admiring huskular bears with more than a little chest hair.)
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
August 24, 2023
I probably wouldn’t have finished this if I didn’t listen to it on audio while driving. I personally prefer dual pov. The mc was so hard to like. It just didn’t work for me, I won’t continue with the series. 1.5⭐️
The narrator was great 🎧
The narrator was great 🎧
August 24, 2022
This is a story about Griffin, a chronically insecure man who is obsessed with comic books and superheroes. He is also a man who has a very narrow view of the world, events and people around him.
It's lust at first sight when he meets Sebastian, but when it's revealed that Sebastian both has powers and doesn't want to be a hero we see Griffin's calculated manipulation come out. He pokes and prods to try to get Sebastian to be the hero he wants him to be without ever asking why Sebastian doesn't want that for himself or considering the reality of putting himself on the line in such a way.
Griffin at one point forces Sebastian's hand by putting himself in danger and therefore forcing Sebastian to play hero if he wants to see the guy he's interested in survive. This manipulation is intentionally hidden. When it comes to light it's completely glossed over.
At one point Griffin gets overly dramatic about a series of events in a single day for what I can only assume was motivated entirely by Plot rather than sense. He jumps to conclusions that make no sense so we can fabricate angst in the story.
And in the end he only realizes he may have made some mistakes when Sebastian becomes the hero Griff wants him to be. There is zero accountability for Griff being a grade A manipulator and asshole. The fact that this concludes in a tidy bow only because Sebastian finally stuffs himself in the box Griff decided he should be in literally makes me nauseous.
I kept reading because I was hoping Griff would realize what a dick he was being. I expected some revelation where he'd admit his fault and grovel for forgiveness. That didn't happen. Sebastian basically told him that Griff did the right thing and Sebastian would be the hero he deserved.
Excuse me while I bleach my eyeballs.
I should have DNFed this at 50% when Griff manipulated Sebastian into playing hero to save him (and maybe his asshole ex boss who was being attacked).
Beyond that, this book could use some more editing. Also what does anyone look like in this book? I know Sebastian has a beard, chest hair, muscle, a sexy voice and is generally hot. I know Lydia changes her hair color to unnatural ones a lot. And I know Griff has a goatee, a hairy stomach, is "big" and some other people find him attractive. Wtf?
I want those hours of my life back.
It's lust at first sight when he meets Sebastian, but when it's revealed that Sebastian both has powers and doesn't want to be a hero we see Griffin's calculated manipulation come out. He pokes and prods to try to get Sebastian to be the hero he wants him to be without ever asking why Sebastian doesn't want that for himself or considering the reality of putting himself on the line in such a way.
Griffin at one point forces Sebastian's hand by putting himself in danger and therefore forcing Sebastian to play hero if he wants to see the guy he's interested in survive. This manipulation is intentionally hidden. When it comes to light it's completely glossed over.
At one point Griffin gets overly dramatic about a series of events in a single day for what I can only assume was motivated entirely by Plot rather than sense. He jumps to conclusions that make no sense so we can fabricate angst in the story.
And in the end he only realizes he may have made some mistakes when Sebastian becomes the hero Griff wants him to be. There is zero accountability for Griff being a grade A manipulator and asshole. The fact that this concludes in a tidy bow only because Sebastian finally stuffs himself in the box Griff decided he should be in literally makes me nauseous.
I kept reading because I was hoping Griff would realize what a dick he was being. I expected some revelation where he'd admit his fault and grovel for forgiveness. That didn't happen. Sebastian basically told him that Griff did the right thing and Sebastian would be the hero he deserved.
Excuse me while I bleach my eyeballs.
I should have DNFed this at 50% when Griff manipulated Sebastian into playing hero to save him (and maybe his asshole ex boss who was being attacked).
Beyond that, this book could use some more editing. Also what does anyone look like in this book? I know Sebastian has a beard, chest hair, muscle, a sexy voice and is generally hot. I know Lydia changes her hair color to unnatural ones a lot. And I know Griff has a goatee, a hairy stomach, is "big" and some other people find him attractive. Wtf?
I want those hours of my life back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2022
I don't know what I expected but it wasn't this. The writing was really good and I really enjoyed the story.
July 11, 2022
The main character is a dick. This is a hard to hurdle to get past. The MC's friend group are all mostly dicks as well and as they seem to exist mostly to star in the sequels, I will probably not read any more of these.
February 22, 2023
If you liked the Extraordinaries by t.j klune, this is that universe but adult and on steroids
January 12, 2023
I was quite excited when I started this one - it was humorous, the premise was fun, and I liked the MC. Unfortunately, It’s a romance, so you know things will work out, and they do; I just don’t like how they get there.
All that said, I did finish reading the book and I’m intrigued enough that I’ll keep going with the series. Did I mention there’s a superhero / supervillain tracking app to alert people to sightings? So cool.
All that said, I did finish reading the book and I’m intrigued enough that I’ll keep going with the series. Did I mention there’s a superhero / supervillain tracking app to alert people to sightings? So cool.
August 15, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Infamous Heart is the first book in Ryder O’Malley’s Men of Vanguard series. I am a fan of superhero stories and I think O’Malley gives this one some nice twists. Griffin and Sebastian live in a city full of heroes and villains. It’s so commonplace to stumble upon a super battle that most people barely blink and just head the other way. There is even an app that tracks where the conflicts crop up — and users can get points for spotting various heroes. It is a fun play on the superhero trope and I think it give the book a bit of a different spin.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Infamous Heart is the first book in Ryder O’Malley’s Men of Vanguard series. I am a fan of superhero stories and I think O’Malley gives this one some nice twists. Griffin and Sebastian live in a city full of heroes and villains. It’s so commonplace to stumble upon a super battle that most people barely blink and just head the other way. There is even an app that tracks where the conflicts crop up — and users can get points for spotting various heroes. It is a fun play on the superhero trope and I think it give the book a bit of a different spin.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
June 2, 2024
Griffin Smith works as at the Beacon, a publication who supports the heroes of Vanguard city. Until he gets fired and recruited by a rival publication who call out heroes as vigilantes as a new supervillain plagues the city almost daily.
And goes on a date with said recruiter. Who turns out to have superpowers.
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I'm really looking forward to seeing the trajectory of the rest of the series and hope to see a lot more of Sebastian and Griffin.
And goes on a date with said recruiter. Who turns out to have superpowers.
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. I'm really looking forward to seeing the trajectory of the rest of the series and hope to see a lot more of Sebastian and Griffin.
June 6, 2022
He has a great job until he loses his temper about being passed over for promotion yet again. It leads to him losing his job and he will bump into them, he wants them but a bad guy wants to stop it. What is going to happen? Will he get a new job? Will they become a couple? See how it all goes
August 16, 2022
Sooo good!! Loved Sebastian and Griffin! A perfect blend of superhero, romance and comedy! Loved the plot and the characters. Great world building. The story was well written with good pacing.
June 24, 2022
That. Was. Flipping. Adorable.
Not exactly my usual fare, but a very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
Not exactly my usual fare, but a very enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
February 1, 2023
3.5 stars
I’m not sure where the “forbidden” part of the romance came from, but I enjoyed this story! Griffin was a bit pushy in his ideas of what a super hero should be, but I liked that his character grew and he acknowledged his mistakes. I would have liked to know more about this world - how people got superpowers or about the aliens briefly mentioned. I’m hoping for more clarity in subsequent books.
I’m not sure where the “forbidden” part of the romance came from, but I enjoyed this story! Griffin was a bit pushy in his ideas of what a super hero should be, but I liked that his character grew and he acknowledged his mistakes. I would have liked to know more about this world - how people got superpowers or about the aliens briefly mentioned. I’m hoping for more clarity in subsequent books.
August 16, 2022
"Infamous Heart" is book one of the Men of Vanguard series by Ryder O'Malley. It came as a welcome surprise. When I read the blurb, it picked my curiosity enough to give it a try, even when it was a little off my usual reading zone. The writing style was the first thing I noticed that made me want to stay with the story. The story is told from Griffin's POV, and I enjoyed very much "his" taking of the narrative: blatant honesty merged with a fine sense of irony and endearing retorts when in dialogue with other characters. The best part was his inner monologues, though, which sometimes become actual conversations with himself. Griffin is the MC, and though Sebastian comes close as the other half of the romantic couple, it is Griffin who successfully holds together the whole story. Sebastian actually does not generate as much interest as Griffin's interactions with him do - except for the Lego stuff, which was endearing, and points out the underlying complexity of Sebastian's character. This is smartly complemented with a bunch of other interesting characters, particularly Griffin's friends and his breakfast club (and I had to love their rules).
The concept that moves the plotline forward is also interesting, maybe not as much the superhero idea per se (even when said superhero is reluctant to step up to his higher calling), but again placing at its centre the sidekick character - Griffin. In the end, it's Griffin who, while taking to the role of "faithful sidekick" to Sebastian, displays the features of a true hero - and consequently pushes the superhero to embrace his powers. Finally, I liked how the book portrayed relevant positive female characters in an M/M story, which sometimes is thoroughly missing in other M/M books. Wraith is the villain, but Slipstream steps to the plate to bat for the superhero team.
All in all, an unexpected nice story, well-written and engaging, and proof that a topic more than overexploited thanks to the Marvel/DC brands can still have original takings in the literary universe. Also, proof that stepping out of your comfort zone now and then pays off.
I received an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest opinion.
The concept that moves the plotline forward is also interesting, maybe not as much the superhero idea per se (even when said superhero is reluctant to step up to his higher calling), but again placing at its centre the sidekick character - Griffin. In the end, it's Griffin who, while taking to the role of "faithful sidekick" to Sebastian, displays the features of a true hero - and consequently pushes the superhero to embrace his powers. Finally, I liked how the book portrayed relevant positive female characters in an M/M story, which sometimes is thoroughly missing in other M/M books. Wraith is the villain, but Slipstream steps to the plate to bat for the superhero team.
All in all, an unexpected nice story, well-written and engaging, and proof that a topic more than overexploited thanks to the Marvel/DC brands can still have original takings in the literary universe. Also, proof that stepping out of your comfort zone now and then pays off.
I received an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest opinion.
October 21, 2022
An enjoyable read.
Reading about Superheroes is new for me but I’m glad i gave this a go because I enjoyed it. The story and characters were well developed and Griff and Sebastian worked well together. Well worth the read.
Reading about Superheroes is new for me but I’m glad i gave this a go because I enjoyed it. The story and characters were well developed and Griff and Sebastian worked well together. Well worth the read.
August 12, 2022
If you had asked me at the 60% mark how I was going to review this book my answer would be different, but having finished it? I actually ended up liking it. This is a superhero romance, and as such has secret superhero’s, regular occurrences of supervillains doing villain things, wanton destruction of property, and a social media app for people to take pics of superhero and villains to rank up and beat their friends. Because why not.
Sebastian is such a pain in the ass but at the same time does some unbelievably sweet things that completely redeem him. And poor Griffin. He struggles a lot, between what he thinks is his dream job and his morals, what makes a hero, what to expect from the people around him that have powers, and more. There is a lot going on throughout this one, with multiple plots in addition to the romance it’s not what you expect from a superhero book but by the end it actually all works well. There are funny moments, sweet moments, and moments that make you want to bash the mc’s heads in. Don’t come into this expecting a romp, it’s still lower angst but it definitely takes a while to wrap up each thread.
The spice is nice and spicy too, so don’t worry, you’re going to get some hot scenes between Sebastian and Griffin pretty fast. There’s nothing mentioned about safer sex (no condoms?) so I’m going to operate under the assumption that superhero’s can’t get diseases because it would bug me otherwise.
If you like superhero’s, sidekicks who take huge risks, complicated plots that all wrap up nicely, morally grey heroes, an arch nemesis to defeat (and no it’s not the supervillain), ridiculous levels of sexual compatibility, and deep thoughts about good and evil this book is for you.
I was given a free copy of this book but this is an honest review.
Sebastian is such a pain in the ass but at the same time does some unbelievably sweet things that completely redeem him. And poor Griffin. He struggles a lot, between what he thinks is his dream job and his morals, what makes a hero, what to expect from the people around him that have powers, and more. There is a lot going on throughout this one, with multiple plots in addition to the romance it’s not what you expect from a superhero book but by the end it actually all works well. There are funny moments, sweet moments, and moments that make you want to bash the mc’s heads in. Don’t come into this expecting a romp, it’s still lower angst but it definitely takes a while to wrap up each thread.
The spice is nice and spicy too, so don’t worry, you’re going to get some hot scenes between Sebastian and Griffin pretty fast. There’s nothing mentioned about safer sex (no condoms?) so I’m going to operate under the assumption that superhero’s can’t get diseases because it would bug me otherwise.
If you like superhero’s, sidekicks who take huge risks, complicated plots that all wrap up nicely, morally grey heroes, an arch nemesis to defeat (and no it’s not the supervillain), ridiculous levels of sexual compatibility, and deep thoughts about good and evil this book is for you.
I was given a free copy of this book but this is an honest review.
December 22, 2024
Griffin is a nerdy, but passive geek who's also an asshole. He's obsessed with superheroes, art, and Sebastian. Griffin also works as a creative art designer for the Beacon magazine, that usually writes puff pieces on the superheros of Vanguard City. One day at work, he meets Sebastian, who's accompanied the owner and boss of a rival magazine and the two have a moment. Then Griffin storms into his boss' office and calls out his manager for stealing his work product and presenting it as his own. He's summarily fired. After a hot date with Sebastian, he discovers the other man has superpowers and can manipulate light, which turns him on even more. But then he finds his new job isn't exactly to his taste, which includes writing hit pieces and outing superheroes and villains. And a villain doesn't like that.
Honestly I didn't like Griffin at all. He was too hot for Sebastian's powers, obviously trying to push him into becoming something he didn't want to do. Then the way he and his morning coffee friends were catty bitches about their sex lives wasn't exactly a likeable thing.
I got to about 45% and skimmed most of the rest of the book, because it was so predictable, right down to the dialogue.
I felt like this was an interesting idea that needed a lot of rewriting to make it more readable, including better character development, better dialogue, better plot arcs, better sex scenes, and definitely grammar checking. I noticed multiple issues where the wrong word was used, such as "marquis" for theater "marquee," or missing words in sentences. This should have going through a lot more proof-reading.
This was maybe a 3 and half star idea of a book series that I'd realistically rate 2 stars.
Honestly I didn't like Griffin at all. He was too hot for Sebastian's powers, obviously trying to push him into becoming something he didn't want to do. Then the way he and his morning coffee friends were catty bitches about their sex lives wasn't exactly a likeable thing.
I got to about 45% and skimmed most of the rest of the book, because it was so predictable, right down to the dialogue.
I felt like this was an interesting idea that needed a lot of rewriting to make it more readable, including better character development, better dialogue, better plot arcs, better sex scenes, and definitely grammar checking. I noticed multiple issues where the wrong word was used, such as "marquis" for theater "marquee," or missing words in sentences. This should have going through a lot more proof-reading.
This was maybe a 3 and half star idea of a book series that I'd realistically rate 2 stars.
October 25, 2021
Delightfully sweet and funny superhero story
Griffin's ex-boyfriend left him saying he'd never amount to anything, and his boss walks all over him and steals his ideas. His friends all love him and value him but he can't see himself through their eyes and never feels good enough for anyone or anything. He is downhearted and lonely but meeting a sexy man at the superhero magazine office where he works who seems to take an interest in him, he is suddenly excited and looking forward to the future.
Sebastian, smart, suave and sophisticated is the opposite of Griffin but is completely taken with the unassuming man from the start. He lets Griffin in and isn't afraid to show him how he feels, and Griffin can't believe that someone so far out of his league wants him.
Their story isn't all plain sailing, in true superhero fashion, and yet again the old adage 'Not all heroes wear capes' proves true. Sebastian requires a bit of a push to realise his true potential, just as Griffin does too, and together the superhero and his sidekick are just what the other needs.
The story is fast and fun, the villain suitably nasty with horrible powers and intentions, Griffin and Sebastian a lovely couple who captured my heart. There were steamy scenes and times that I laughed out loud or broke into a fit of the giggles, and I loved the last few lines.
Having devoured this and the prequel, Irresistible Power, now I'm looking forward to the books about the rest of the 'Breakfast Club' because I'm sure Bernard, Xander and Alejandro all have stories to tell.
Griffin's ex-boyfriend left him saying he'd never amount to anything, and his boss walks all over him and steals his ideas. His friends all love him and value him but he can't see himself through their eyes and never feels good enough for anyone or anything. He is downhearted and lonely but meeting a sexy man at the superhero magazine office where he works who seems to take an interest in him, he is suddenly excited and looking forward to the future.
Sebastian, smart, suave and sophisticated is the opposite of Griffin but is completely taken with the unassuming man from the start. He lets Griffin in and isn't afraid to show him how he feels, and Griffin can't believe that someone so far out of his league wants him.
Their story isn't all plain sailing, in true superhero fashion, and yet again the old adage 'Not all heroes wear capes' proves true. Sebastian requires a bit of a push to realise his true potential, just as Griffin does too, and together the superhero and his sidekick are just what the other needs.
The story is fast and fun, the villain suitably nasty with horrible powers and intentions, Griffin and Sebastian a lovely couple who captured my heart. There were steamy scenes and times that I laughed out loud or broke into a fit of the giggles, and I loved the last few lines.
Having devoured this and the prequel, Irresistible Power, now I'm looking forward to the books about the rest of the 'Breakfast Club' because I'm sure Bernard, Xander and Alejandro all have stories to tell.
June 5, 2022
"I want to play Legos with you" **swoon**
I loved it! Griff is an undervalued designer for the premiere superhero magazine, he is passed for promotion and then learns that his boss is taking his ideas as his own and taking all the credit for his job. While waiting to defend his work to the bossman he meets Sebastian, who works for the competition, and is enthralled by him. After his efforts get him fired, he contacts Sebastian to get him to see his work and put a good word in the rival magazine. During their meeting, Griff learns secrets about Sebastian when they become the target of a new villain. Now Griff has to juggle his possible new job, this blooming relationship/sidekick gig, and not getting killed by Wraith.
I really liked this book, it has superheroes, villains, moral compasses, comedy, romance, friendship tribe, etc. It has amazing world-building and the side characters are very well written I can't wait to know more about them. The moral dilemma Griff has to overcome was so well exposed and discussed, and the resolution left me feeling happy. I want to be part of the breakfast Club like yesterday, there is so much potential there!!
The romance was super cute! I love nerds and geeks so when they find each other it makes me happy. I feel like we need a novella or short story from Sebastian's POV, at least from the moment he meets Griff, when I read that part I found his interest in Griff kind of convenient for the story and if we had more information about it would make their romance stronger. Still, I'm a fan and I'm up to the next book!
I loved it! Griff is an undervalued designer for the premiere superhero magazine, he is passed for promotion and then learns that his boss is taking his ideas as his own and taking all the credit for his job. While waiting to defend his work to the bossman he meets Sebastian, who works for the competition, and is enthralled by him. After his efforts get him fired, he contacts Sebastian to get him to see his work and put a good word in the rival magazine. During their meeting, Griff learns secrets about Sebastian when they become the target of a new villain. Now Griff has to juggle his possible new job, this blooming relationship/sidekick gig, and not getting killed by Wraith.
I really liked this book, it has superheroes, villains, moral compasses, comedy, romance, friendship tribe, etc. It has amazing world-building and the side characters are very well written I can't wait to know more about them. The moral dilemma Griff has to overcome was so well exposed and discussed, and the resolution left me feeling happy. I want to be part of the breakfast Club like yesterday, there is so much potential there!!
The romance was super cute! I love nerds and geeks so when they find each other it makes me happy. I feel like we need a novella or short story from Sebastian's POV, at least from the moment he meets Griff, when I read that part I found his interest in Griff kind of convenient for the story and if we had more information about it would make their romance stronger. Still, I'm a fan and I'm up to the next book!
August 16, 2022
Clever and engaging. A real hero’s origin story and a love story rolled into one.
Ryder O’Malley is a new-to-me author. I was intrigued by the premise of the series—a world in which superheroes and supervillains running around fighting each in the streets is so normal that’s there’s an app for that—literally. It’s like a behind-the-scenes look at any Marvel or DC universe movie.
Griffin is an artist who works for a magazine that writes feel-good stories about the lives of superheroes. Sebastian works for a rival magazine whose owner wants to get “the dirt” on superheroes and expose them for the frauds they are.
Griffin and Sebastian have an immediate attraction that burns pretty hot for a while. They have really good chemistry and the sexy times are smoking. Things gets strained when Griffin discovers that Sebastian is a secret (very reluctant superhero). Griffin tries to get Sebastian to live up to his potential. Sebastian just wants to live his life on the down low. Things go south for them when a new supervillain enters the picture.
The relationship between Griffin and Sebastian is cute and sweet at first, but gets more complicated as Griffin tries to push his own agenda onto Sebastian. Sebastian struggles with his identity and his stand on “good and evil” which puts a strain on the budding relationship.
Infamous Heart is a nice love story that has a few twists and at least one near-death experience. I liked it very much and I hope to see more from this author.
Ryder O’Malley is a new-to-me author. I was intrigued by the premise of the series—a world in which superheroes and supervillains running around fighting each in the streets is so normal that’s there’s an app for that—literally. It’s like a behind-the-scenes look at any Marvel or DC universe movie.
Griffin is an artist who works for a magazine that writes feel-good stories about the lives of superheroes. Sebastian works for a rival magazine whose owner wants to get “the dirt” on superheroes and expose them for the frauds they are.
Griffin and Sebastian have an immediate attraction that burns pretty hot for a while. They have really good chemistry and the sexy times are smoking. Things gets strained when Griffin discovers that Sebastian is a secret (very reluctant superhero). Griffin tries to get Sebastian to live up to his potential. Sebastian just wants to live his life on the down low. Things go south for them when a new supervillain enters the picture.
The relationship between Griffin and Sebastian is cute and sweet at first, but gets more complicated as Griffin tries to push his own agenda onto Sebastian. Sebastian struggles with his identity and his stand on “good and evil” which puts a strain on the budding relationship.
Infamous Heart is a nice love story that has a few twists and at least one near-death experience. I liked it very much and I hope to see more from this author.
August 23, 2022
Griffin really admires superheroes. He follows them closely and tries to get pictures of them in action. He even has a graphic design job for a magazine that prints positive stories about the heroes. He used to love his job until he got a new boss named Vincent. Vincent is always critisizing his work to his face and then stealing his ideas to tell the big boss. One day Griffin has had enough and goes up to talk to the big boss. He meets Sebastian who is talking to the CEO. Sebastian works for the up and coming rival magazine. Griffin is immediately attracted to Sebastian and is thrilled when he is given Sebastian's card. Griffin's talk with the CEO ends up with Griffin getting fired. When he calls Sebastian and they go out, Sebastian offers to tell his boss about Griffin and hopefully he will get a new job.
Griffin is hired by Sebastian's boss but the problem is the CEO wants stories that show heroes weaknesses and problems. Griffin is unhappy having to portray heroes in a negative light. When he is on a date with Sebastian, they are attacked by a supervillanness called the wraith. Griffin thinks he is about to die when Sebastian reveals that he has superpowers. Griffin is confused why Sebastian is keeping his powers a secret. He and Sebastian experiment with his powers to see what exactly he can do. In the meantime, the Wraith keeps popping up and going after Griffin's former co-workers.
Griffin is hired by Sebastian's boss but the problem is the CEO wants stories that show heroes weaknesses and problems. Griffin is unhappy having to portray heroes in a negative light. When he is on a date with Sebastian, they are attacked by a supervillanness called the wraith. Griffin thinks he is about to die when Sebastian reveals that he has superpowers. Griffin is confused why Sebastian is keeping his powers a secret. He and Sebastian experiment with his powers to see what exactly he can do. In the meantime, the Wraith keeps popping up and going after Griffin's former co-workers.
June 5, 2022
Griffin was a designer for a superhero magazine. Overlooked for a promotion, he released some pent-up anger and was fired. As he storms out, he runs into the art director from a rival magazine. Sebastian is a wet dream come to life and he begs him to look at his portfolio among other things. When they meet Griffin learns things about Sebastian that were a bit surprising, including that he is an unknown superhero. He also learns that a supervillain, Wraith, is out to get him. Griffin has a lot on his plate now - getting his dream job and his dream man, all while avoiding being killed by Wraith. And he wants to become a sidekick to his very own superhero.
This has a touch of everything. Griffin was underappreciated and underutilized as a designer. He wants to find a job where that is reversed. There are superheroes and supervillains, some comedy and romance as well discussions of morals and ethics. Griffin has his very own breakfast club and those friends are willing to help him or advise him as the case may be. There is lots of action and loving and you never knew what would happen next. With excellent world building and amazing heroes, add this one to your list. You’ll be glad you did.
This has a touch of everything. Griffin was underappreciated and underutilized as a designer. He wants to find a job where that is reversed. There are superheroes and supervillains, some comedy and romance as well discussions of morals and ethics. Griffin has his very own breakfast club and those friends are willing to help him or advise him as the case may be. There is lots of action and loving and you never knew what would happen next. With excellent world building and amazing heroes, add this one to your list. You’ll be glad you did.
August 16, 2022
Interesting times! Griffin, lost out on a promotion at the Beacon, a magazine that is pro-superhero. His boss, Vincent basically told him that he had professionally gone as far as he would in the company as a junion designer. He comisserates with his found family, Xander/paramedic Alejandro/bartender and Bernard/Centurion-secret superhero meeting at the daily morning Breakfast Club. They best friend as only best friends, can. Clarice from the art store and Lydia from the comic shop are delightful. Janet, Griff's work wife is hilarious. Griff, meets Sebastian Taylor from Revelations and he finds Seb totally hot. Griff, confronts his boss of the Beacon facing down Vincent at the same time and speaks to truth. Griff is hired by Damien, owner of Revelations, a rival magazine who has a different perspective of the superheroes. Griff and Sebastian start dating and learn a lot about each other. Seb has a few abilities which require secrecy. Seb is complicated, but I like him. Griff is not complicated but he is still looking for his truth yet. Griff has to make several and choices. Exciting story. Lots going on with the supes. Good foundation for a new series. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 16, 2024
Welcome to a world where superheros and supervillians are an everyday occurrence. Think Free Guy, but with comic books. There are apps to track clashes, drills learned and practices by ordinary people, even those who perform PR for the heroes.
This series (yeah for lots of books!), centers around a small group of men that meet for coffee/breakfast every morning. This book centers around Griffin, an aspiring graphics designer who is obsessed with all things comic books and knows everything about the superheroes and supervillians. Sparks fly between Griffin and Sebastian, who works for the rival magazine. And since Griffin just quit, looks like this could be an opportunity to move up.
This is a little bit of a Cinderella situation, Sebastian is loaded and Griffin is almost the definition of starving artist. Also given the fact Sebastian has superpowers. Griffin just can't understand how someone who has the ability to help doesn't want to. When Griffin pushes Sebastian into trying to be hero, things don't go exactly the way he hopes. But it is a good narrative on the argument of just because you can, shouldn't mean you have to.
This series (yeah for lots of books!), centers around a small group of men that meet for coffee/breakfast every morning. This book centers around Griffin, an aspiring graphics designer who is obsessed with all things comic books and knows everything about the superheroes and supervillians. Sparks fly between Griffin and Sebastian, who works for the rival magazine. And since Griffin just quit, looks like this could be an opportunity to move up.
This is a little bit of a Cinderella situation, Sebastian is loaded and Griffin is almost the definition of starving artist. Also given the fact Sebastian has superpowers. Griffin just can't understand how someone who has the ability to help doesn't want to. When Griffin pushes Sebastian into trying to be hero, things don't go exactly the way he hopes. But it is a good narrative on the argument of just because you can, shouldn't mean you have to.
August 16, 2022
Infamous Heart is the first book in the Men of Vanguard series by author Ryder O’Malley. I loved the concept of this story. Superheroes and supervillains were right up my alley. I also love comics. This story however was very very confusing to read. At first, I thought it was a video game, then real life, then I was just lost. I think the characters are amazingly done. Griff was perfect! And Sebastian is awesome~ but the world-building. That is where this book falls apart. Since this is the first book in a series, I need more world-building. I found that not anything was explained well. I wanted to love this book. It is something I love and am a total geek. But I just felt lost. I would however read more in this series in the future. I would like to see if book two irons out the wrinkles in this story. That perhaps the more you read the more you get it.
Griff: the story is told in his POV. He is a funny snarky character with friends I loved!
Sebastian: villains can have hearts of gold, just shhh don’t tell he has a softy inside him.
An overall good book and I want more.
Four Twinkling Stars
Griff: the story is told in his POV. He is a funny snarky character with friends I loved!
Sebastian: villains can have hearts of gold, just shhh don’t tell he has a softy inside him.
An overall good book and I want more.
Four Twinkling Stars
May 26, 2022
Loved the premise, loved the plot, loved the characters.
I particularly enjoyed the Free Guy-esque weirdness of superheroes roaming the city and people kind of just taking it in their stride.
It's written in first person single POV, it's medium heat.
As a character growth story, romance aside, I think it works well. Griffin faces some intense moral and dilemmas to overcome his self esteem issues and grow into a more mature, less black and white thinking adult.
I found it a bit difficult to connect with the central characters' romance though. Griffin, makes some manipulative choices without always owning up to it appropriately and it's difficult to understand Sebastian's motives to change so completely for Griffin (I'm not a fan of changing yourself for someone just because you love them). Dual POV may have fixed this.
I think the bones are there, and I'm hopeful for growth as the author continues the story.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
I particularly enjoyed the Free Guy-esque weirdness of superheroes roaming the city and people kind of just taking it in their stride.
It's written in first person single POV, it's medium heat.
As a character growth story, romance aside, I think it works well. Griffin faces some intense moral and dilemmas to overcome his self esteem issues and grow into a more mature, less black and white thinking adult.
I found it a bit difficult to connect with the central characters' romance though. Griffin, makes some manipulative choices without always owning up to it appropriately and it's difficult to understand Sebastian's motives to change so completely for Griffin (I'm not a fan of changing yourself for someone just because you love them). Dual POV may have fixed this.
I think the bones are there, and I'm hopeful for growth as the author continues the story.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
June 6, 2022
Now this is what a superhero book should be. If they were real I can absolutely see the world in this book being true. Griff, the MC, is a total superhero groupie. Which is perfect as he works in the art department of a magazine dedicated to them. Sadly Griff is under appreciated by a scummy idea stealing boss. This leads to Griff making some life changing decisions, the way he went about it had me laughing. He meets Sebastian, who is the art director for a rival magazine. And the story takes off from there.
The book is told entirely in Griff's POV, first person past tense. It may have been a kindle formatting issue but sometimes I had trouble figuring out who was speaking.
The book is over the top with comic book and superhero movie stereotypes. I loved it. From the magazine owner being called Mr. Bossman, to the spandex and cape superhero costumes all of the things you’d expect were covered. You have to not take it seriously. Just enjoy the book for what it is, basically “if comic book worlds were real”.
The book is told entirely in Griff's POV, first person past tense. It may have been a kindle formatting issue but sometimes I had trouble figuring out who was speaking.
The book is over the top with comic book and superhero movie stereotypes. I loved it. From the magazine owner being called Mr. Bossman, to the spandex and cape superhero costumes all of the things you’d expect were covered. You have to not take it seriously. Just enjoy the book for what it is, basically “if comic book worlds were real”.
August 17, 2022
I liked Infamous Heart because it got me analyzing the characters' actions and thinking about what I would do in their place. The long and the short of it is Sebastian doesn't want to be a hero and Griffin pushes and manipulates him to be one. I really did not like that. Yes, Griffin did what he thought was right, but it was not his place to impose his views of right and wrong on Sebastian. However, what made this story enjoyable despite Griffin's manipulation is the way Sebastian and Griffin were both forced to examine their own actions and the resulting realization that not only is the world made up not in black and white, but in shades of grey. It was a good book, layered and worth a reread.
August 14, 2022
I am a huge fan of superhero stories specially MM so when I discovered this series, it was simply a must read for me. This book 1 present us an amazing universe were superheroes and supervillains exists with a lot of complexities in their interactions with "normal" people and the struggles for having superpowers and the pressure to use them. Sebastian and Griffin's story is full of hilarious "insights" in superhero life and a very entertaining side story about them trying to create something between them. One of the best superhero books I have read in a long time. I can't wait for more on this great series!
July 5, 2023
This might have Spoilers idk
I dnf at 41% I can't get over how manipulate and self centered Griffin is. From the moment he meets Sebastian, Griff is pushing his morals and trying to make Sebastian into someone he is not.
Griffin doesnt get to know why Sebastian is the way he is. He is just like oh you were from a poor place. You NEED to be a roll modle; you NEED to help those around you. When he finds out Sebastian has powers he pushes him to be a hero and that is where I stopped. It's so uncomfortable to read and seeing another review it isn't something that is ever addressed or rectified.
I dnf at 41% I can't get over how manipulate and self centered Griffin is. From the moment he meets Sebastian, Griff is pushing his morals and trying to make Sebastian into someone he is not.
Griffin doesnt get to know why Sebastian is the way he is. He is just like oh you were from a poor place. You NEED to be a roll modle; you NEED to help those around you. When he finds out Sebastian has powers he pushes him to be a hero and that is where I stopped. It's so uncomfortable to read and seeing another review it isn't something that is ever addressed or rectified.
June 20, 2022
This is one of the most unique premises for a series I have seen in a while. Griffen is a superhero-obsessed graphic designer in Vanguard City where superhero/supervillain battles are just as common as fender benders. After standing up for himself at work for a position he believes he deserves Griffen is shown the door. On the way out he meets Sebastian who works for a competing publication. While he is applying for a position with Sebastian's employer the men bond over their humble starts. They are also forced to explore what a superhero really is.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews