My Review
I just finished "All Superheroes Need PR" and I simply must tell you about it! As someone who's always been fascinated by both superheroes and public relations (I actually worked in communications before switching to my current job as a botanical illustrator), this book immediately caught my attention.
Let me start by saying this book completely surprised me in the best possible way. I expected a straightforward superhero romance, but what I got was this delightfully unhinged story about an alien superhero who needs serious image rehabilitation and an introverted PR executive. As someone who also struggles with social anxiety, seeing Vanessa's character portrayed with such authenticity and complexity really touched my heart.
The world-building is absolutely fascinating - imagine our world, but with 48 aliens who've been living among us for decades as either superheroes or supervillains. It's such a fresh take on both the superhero and alien romance genres! The author weaves in themes of belonging, found family, and self-acceptance in ways that feel natural rather than preachy.
What I particularly adored was the representation throughout the book. The diversity in the characters feels authentic and lived-in, not just checked boxes. And the found family aspects? *chef's kiss* They had me reaching for my tissue box more than once!
Now, I will say there were moments where I wished for more development of the PR storyline - it feels like it takes a backseat rather quickly. Also, some readers might find the instalove aspect a bit jarring (though I personally found it worked within the context of the story).
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 stars)
Would I recommend it? Absolutely! Especially if you enjoy your romance with a healthy dose of superpowers, found family dynamics, and characters who are wonderfully imperfect. Just be prepared for some steamy scenes that might make you fan yourself while reading in public (I learned this the hard way at my favorite café!).
P.S. I've already pre-ordered the next book in the series. I simply must know what happens next in this wonderfully chaotic universe!
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Book Description
He’s a villain looking for a hero rebrand. She’s the marketing genius who can make it happen in this fantastical romantic comedy by the author of the Beasts of Gatamora series.
Over two decades ago, forty-eight young, gifted superheroes fell to Earth and were eventually marketed as opposing heroes and villains. Now, one exceptionally gruff bad guy is looking to hop teams. Hello, PR director Vanessa Theriot.
His real name is Roland Casteel a.k.a. the Pyro. First, swap that with the less incinerating the Wyvern. Next, put him in spandex to highlight that near-godlike body. Finally, give that hero in training a heroine—if Vanessa will play the part in a pretend romance guaranteed to make the city swoon. She’s game. As shy as Vanessa is, it’s her job to be Roland’s very own Lois Lane. Who knew that fake dating would change their worlds?
But falling head over heels for real makes for a dangerous shift in the narrative. A monstrous supervillain is bringing out Roland’s bad side again. This time, it’s to save a woman who, against all the odds, is becoming the human love of his superhero life.
Author:
Elizabeth Stephens
Elizabeth Stephens writes romance of the SciFi, paranormal and suspenseful varieties. Her favorite trope is enemies-to-lovers and she loves to world-build so much so that she sometimes gets lost in places that don't exist.
One year into her author journey, she's been shocked to see her books listed among Amazon's bestsellers in their categories. Still, her favorite pieces of fanmail are from BIPOC women expressing surprise and gratitude that they've found an author who looks like them and (does her very best!) to write books that make them feel included.
When she isn't tip-tap-typing away, you might find her getting her hands dirty on a pottery wheel, traveling as much as she can, or learning a new language. A Seattle native, after over 15 years spent in Johannesburg, Cairo, Beirut, Geneva, Addis Ababa, and Berlin, she's made her way back home with her loving husband and doggo, King Louis.
To find out more about her projects and upcoming releases visit her website at booksbyelizabeth.com.
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