The Love Interest by Helen Comerford

Seventeen-year-old Jenna Ray has just been saved by the world's newest superhero, Blaze. And, in the eyes of the public, that means one thing: Jenna Ray has been cast as the Love Interest.

No. Not happening. Not if Jenna has anything to say about it (even if Blaze is actually quite sweet and cute).

But her plans to defy the HPA (the Heroics and Power Authority) and turn down this new role are thwarted when the Villains begin to take an interest in her and offer a life-changing proposition; become Blaze's Love Interest, while avoiding catching feelings for him, to uncover the HPA's secret plans and find her missing mum.

To make matters even more complicated, just as Jenna starts to embrace her new-found career, she discovers she might be more on the side of the superheroes than she ever imagined …

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In The Love Interest, Helen Comerford presents a delightful and subversive take on the superhero genre through the eyes of seventeen-year-old Jenna Ray. After being saved by the charming superhero Blaze, Jenna finds herself thrust into the role of the "Love Interest"—a title she’s determined to reject. However, the narrative quickly spirals into a thrilling adventure as she navigates the complexities of her new reality.

Jenna is a relatable protagonist, filled with wit and determination. Her desire to defy the expectations placed upon her by the Heroics and Power Authority (HPA) resonates deeply, especially in a world that often reduces characters to mere romantic interests. As she grapples with her new role, the introduction of the Villains adds an intriguing twist. Their proposition to act as Blaze's Love Interest while secretly investigating the HPA creates a compelling tension that drives the plot forward.

Comerford skillfully balances humor and heart in Jenna’s journey, exploring themes of identity, agency, and the nuances of love and friendship. The budding relationship between Jenna and Blaze is sweet, yet it’s Jenna’s internal conflict that truly captures the reader’s attention. As she uncovers secrets about the HPA and begins to explore her own powers, the line between ally and adversary blurs, making for an engaging and unpredictable storyline.

The pacing of the novel is brisk, keeping readers on their toes with a mix of action, humor, and emotional depth. The world-building is cleverly woven into the narrative, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the complexities of a society shaped by superhuman abilities. It's also refreshing to see a world that has changed because of superheroes and shows some of the practicalities of dealing with them!

The Love Interest is not just a story about superheroes; it’s a celebration of self-discovery and empowerment. Jenna’s journey from reluctant Love Interest to a proactive heroine is both refreshing and inspiring, making this novel a standout in the genre.

For readers who enjoy a unique blend of romance, adventure, and humor, The Love Interest is a must-read. Comerford's debut is a charming exploration of what it means to truly be seen and to carve out one’s own identity, even in a world filled with extraordinary expectations.

Recommendations: If you enjoyed The Love Interest, you might also like Not Your Sidekick by C.B. Lee, a humorous and heartfelt exploration of life in a superhero family. For a TV show that balances comedy with quirky characters, Superstore delivers laughs and relatable situations. Finally, Scott Pilgrim vs. The World offers a unique blend of romance, humor, and fantastical elements, making it a delightful companion to Jenna Ray’s adventurous journey.

The Love Interest publishes on the 12th of November, 2024. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.