Book Review: All Superheroes Need PR (Supers in the City, #1) by Kamryn Lane
It’s not every day that a title like All Superheroes Need PR grabs my attention, but the promise of a cheeky blend of superheroes, romance, and a dash of chaos certainly piqued my interest. Kamryn Lane manages to create a whirlwind of a story that both entertained and resonated with me deeply, particularly as someone who occasionally struggles with life’s complexities.
From the very first page, I was hooked. The opening introduces us to Vanessa, our fierce female lead, and Roland, the mysterious and possessive male protagonist. Their chaotic meet-cute is a trainwreck of errors that had me laughing out loud—seriously, I spat out my drink a mere 25% into the book! Lane punishes roller-coaster moments with humor, and I found myself rooting for these characters from the get-go. Their chemistry is palpable, marred by insecurities but driven by a playful obsession that is both amusing and touching.
Roland’s inner monologue is a highlight, providing a window into his soul while hilariously unpacking his complicated feelings for Vanessa. His jealousy and possessiveness add layers to his character that keep the reader engaged, and the side characters are well-drawn, adding richness to the narrative. This isn’t just a superhero story; it’s also an exploration of mental health, identity, and the messy nuances of relationships, particularly seen through Vanessa’s struggles with anxiety and past trauma.
On the subject of prose, Lane’s writing style strikes a balance between light-hearted banter and serious undertones. The pacing is generally smooth; however, the final 20% of the book felt a little rushed as it wrapped up the myriad of plot threads. I liken it to the moment in a video game where you sit up, realizing the stakes have unexpectedly escalated. I wanted that portion to breathe a little more, to delve deeper into the resolution, but despite this, it didn’t detract much from my overall enjoyment.
The book addresses several heavier themes, such as social anxiety and xenophobia between humans and supernaturals, woven throughout in a sensitive manner. The representation of queer identities and diverse backgrounds adds further depth, making it a refreshing read. Lane approaches darker subjects—like violence and trauma—with care, making her characters’ experiences both relatable and meaningful.
For those who appreciate a dramatic yet humorous take on the genres of romance and fantastical adventure, this book is a delightful pick. It’s engaging, funny, and undeniably entertaining, perfect for anyone looking to escape into a world where superheroes battle personal demons as much as they do external threats. I found the reading experience to be a joyful respite from a bit of a reading slump this year, and I believe many others will feel the same.
In summary, All Superheroes Need PR combines action, humor, and heart in a unique way, making it an enchanting kickoff to the Supers in the City series. If you enjoy stories where the protagonists navigate their existences through chaos, humor, and a hefty dose of romantic obsession, this book might just be your next favorite adventure. Happy reading!
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