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The Superheroine Collection #3
Chasing Stars
For superhero Swiftwing, crime fighting isn’t her biggest battle. Nor is it having to meet the demanding whims of Hollywood screen goddess Gwen Knight as her mild-mannered assistant, Ava.
It’s doing all that, while tracking a giant alien bug, being asked to fake date her world-famous boss, and realizing that she might be coming down with a pesky case of feelings.
A fun, sweet, and sexy romance about the masks we all wear.
70,000 words
Themes: fake dating · giant alien bug · Hollywood · queer superhero
It’s doing all that, while tracking a giant alien bug, being asked to fake date her world-famous boss, and realizing that she might be coming down with a pesky case of feelings.
A fun, sweet, and sexy romance about the masks we all wear.
70,000 words
Themes: fake dating · giant alien bug · Hollywood · queer superhero
205 pages, ebook
First published March 21, 2018
26 people are currently reading
990 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
March 5, 2018
This is the third book in The Superheroine Collection Series. What is interesting about this series is all the books are standalone and done by different authors. The books are all very unique. Book 2: The Power of Mercy by Fiona Zedde was excellent, but very dark and gritty. While this book was a lighter, feel good superhero story. So if you are interested in any of the books in this series, you can read them in any order, or just pick out the one/s that interest you.
I would say this book was 70% romance, 30% superhero book. It was definitely lighter on the superheroes aspects, but I was okay with that since the romance was so good. Netty pointed out this story was originally fanfic. I’m not sure, but my guess would be Devil Wears Prada or SwanQueen. You have the whole age-gap, ice queen storyline going on. This is also another fake relationship story. Yes, there has been a ton of fake relationship books coming out lately. I can’t really complain as I love this theme, but I can see how some people might be getting tired of it. What made this book a little different is the two characters knew each other already. Ava is the personal assistant to Gwen a big Hollywood star. So instead of this being a book about a fake relationship of two characters just meeting, these character have a long history already.
One of the good points about this book is it flowed really smoothly. I was immediately drawn in, and felt like I had a good grasp on what was going on. I liked the writing style, some good dialog and I connected easily with the characters. This is definitely a lighter feel good book, and I found myself smiling a lot. The romance is well done and the characters absolutely have chemistry together.
I would absolutely recommend this to romance fans. Yes this book is about a superhero and aliens, but at the core this is a sweet romance. I would not hesitate to read another book by Thorne and I hope there will be more Superheroine books coming out.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
I would say this book was 70% romance, 30% superhero book. It was definitely lighter on the superheroes aspects, but I was okay with that since the romance was so good. Netty pointed out this story was originally fanfic. I’m not sure, but my guess would be Devil Wears Prada or SwanQueen. You have the whole age-gap, ice queen storyline going on. This is also another fake relationship story. Yes, there has been a ton of fake relationship books coming out lately. I can’t really complain as I love this theme, but I can see how some people might be getting tired of it. What made this book a little different is the two characters knew each other already. Ava is the personal assistant to Gwen a big Hollywood star. So instead of this being a book about a fake relationship of two characters just meeting, these character have a long history already.
One of the good points about this book is it flowed really smoothly. I was immediately drawn in, and felt like I had a good grasp on what was going on. I liked the writing style, some good dialog and I connected easily with the characters. This is definitely a lighter feel good book, and I found myself smiling a lot. The romance is well done and the characters absolutely have chemistry together.
I would absolutely recommend this to romance fans. Yes this book is about a superhero and aliens, but at the core this is a sweet romance. I would not hesitate to read another book by Thorne and I hope there will be more Superheroine books coming out.
An ARC was given to me by YLVA, for a honest review.
April 5, 2018
You know a book is good when you start counting down the percentages or pages until the end. (Oh come on I know I'm not the only weirdo who does that.)
Swiftwing is the hero I've been waiting for. Ava is a 27 year old adorkable, sweet, babbling, sinnamon roll who has a super crush on her 44 year old boss, actress extraordinaire Gwen Knight. I absolutely loved these two together, from their great dialogues to their sizzling chemistry. Granted sometimes they got on my nerves a little but that never lasted very long. Although they are not the best at communicating, they do eventually talk things through like the adult woman and alien they are.
This book has a great balance of romance and action and even has several chuckle worthy moments. The other thing I really liked was the diversity in this book. One main character could be labeled as bisexual (and is biracial) while the other claims not to have a type, whatever that means (gender? race?).
This is a fantastic debut novel by Alex K. Thorne who apparently will be running the YLVA booth at Clexacon this year. (Yes I stalked her twitter and am super jealous of anyone attending.)
Swiftwing is the hero I've been waiting for. Ava is a 27 year old adorkable, sweet, babbling, sinnamon roll who has a super crush on her 44 year old boss, actress extraordinaire Gwen Knight. I absolutely loved these two together, from their great dialogues to their sizzling chemistry. Granted sometimes they got on my nerves a little but that never lasted very long. Although they are not the best at communicating, they do eventually talk things through like the adult woman and alien they are.
This book has a great balance of romance and action and even has several chuckle worthy moments. The other thing I really liked was the diversity in this book. One main character could be labeled as bisexual (and is biracial) while the other claims not to have a type, whatever that means (gender? race?).
This is a fantastic debut novel by Alex K. Thorne who apparently will be running the YLVA booth at Clexacon this year. (Yes I stalked her twitter and am super jealous of anyone attending.)
February 28, 2018
According to the publisher's site this is the third in the Superheroines Collection (not reflected on Goodreads yet) and I really hoped I would like it as much as I liked Fiona Zedde's The Power of Mercy and Lee Winter's Shattered. This seems to be Alex K Thorne’s debut novel and it is fabulous.
Ten-year-old Ava'Kia Vala of the planet Zrix'dhor was one of the 300 survivors of the alien ship Andromeda Voyager when it crashed to Earth 17 years before. The realisation of her power of flight and quick healing leads to the creation of her alter ego, Swiftwing, as a young adult. As her day-job, Ava Eisenberg is the accommodating assistant to the beautiful, famous actress Gwen Knight, also renowned ice-queen.
There is an unmistakable The Devil Wears Prada trope combined with aliens and a Superman-like origins story (I don’t know much about Supergirl to compare it to). A fake relationship theme is thrown in for good measure too. All these themes are woven together seamlessly to create an engaging and riveting story. Ava is a wonderful character who is modest and earnest in spite of her superpowers. She struggles with her value and purpose in a really realistic way as someone who is orphaned and adopted might.
Gwen is quite cold and rigid with the occasional flicker of warmth, just enough to keep you from hating her. Although, her biting wit is wince-worthy and entertaining to read. Ava and Gwen are surrounded by a diverse cast of secondary characters who give the story a nice weight. Ava’s friend, Nic, had the potential to be a much more prominent character rather than being on the periphery as a sounding board.
I don’t really like the cover as it is a little flat in comparison to the other two books in the Superheroine Collection.
This is a wonderful addition to the series and well worth reading.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
Ten-year-old Ava'Kia Vala of the planet Zrix'dhor was one of the 300 survivors of the alien ship Andromeda Voyager when it crashed to Earth 17 years before. The realisation of her power of flight and quick healing leads to the creation of her alter ego, Swiftwing, as a young adult. As her day-job, Ava Eisenberg is the accommodating assistant to the beautiful, famous actress Gwen Knight, also renowned ice-queen.
There is an unmistakable The Devil Wears Prada trope combined with aliens and a Superman-like origins story (I don’t know much about Supergirl to compare it to). A fake relationship theme is thrown in for good measure too. All these themes are woven together seamlessly to create an engaging and riveting story. Ava is a wonderful character who is modest and earnest in spite of her superpowers. She struggles with her value and purpose in a really realistic way as someone who is orphaned and adopted might.
Gwen is quite cold and rigid with the occasional flicker of warmth, just enough to keep you from hating her. Although, her biting wit is wince-worthy and entertaining to read. Ava and Gwen are surrounded by a diverse cast of secondary characters who give the story a nice weight. Ava’s friend, Nic, had the potential to be a much more prominent character rather than being on the periphery as a sounding board.
I don’t really like the cover as it is a little flat in comparison to the other two books in the Superheroine Collection.
This is a wonderful addition to the series and well worth reading.
Book received from Ylva Publishing for an honest review.
April 20, 2018
This story has a lot going for it and I was compelled to finish. My impression was that I was left with a lot of affection for the book and primarily the character of Ava. That said, I also felt there were elements holding it back from being really great.
The book is an odd mix of sorts: Super hero story, romance, Hollywood, fake relationship, ice queen, age gap, boss/employee, aliens, and something akin to King Kong. I can't say I've read this combination before and I liked it.
Ava, our lead and the super hero in the story is endearing. She's a mix of insecurity and lack of confidence while also having strength and integrity. The book really focuses on Ava's relationship with Gwen, an A-list actress, both as Gwen's competent but bumbling personal assistant and as her secret identity, Swiftwing. So romance is front and center while the super hero and sci-fi aspects are secondary.
Sexuality is considered fluid and not really a big deal which I also like. There's no drama around being in the closet, it being considered a negative scandal, etc.
The book, overall, has a sweet charm and fun vibe to it.
Because it touches on a lot and it's a relatively short book it suffers from not fleshing out enough detail in any of it really. I wanted more, more, more.
From the romance side, I wasn't completely sold on Gwen because she *is* so cold and there's not really a reason why other than she's an A-list star and that's considered normal behavior? She does thaw, and Gwen grew on me, but I really wanted more of what Ava saw in Gwen during all of the times Gwen didn't treat her well, their connection being explored as equals, having them share more intimate moments, and so on. The romance was believable enough but it wasn't off the charts.
Super hero missions are more mentioned as asides as is the alien/sci-fi background. And, the Hollywood part is there just enough but also didn't feel so real. An assistant is basically working insanely long hours, is on call 24/7 living and breathing the life but Ava's job was almost more of a nine to five thing and it never really clashed with her super hero duties.
I understand this used to be a fan fiction (which gets no negative bias from me) and, honestly, I'm not 100% sure which it's pulled from. My best guess is more derived by character behavior and the fact that a line using "stuff" was said which, if it's the fan fic I'm thinking of, is a good inside joke. The good news is that it doesn't suffer from quality issues we sometimes see in fan fiction and, instead, gets the best: a fresh story.
For whatever its shortcomings, I did enjoy the read and recommend. I put this around 3.75 stars.
The book is an odd mix of sorts: Super hero story, romance, Hollywood, fake relationship, ice queen, age gap, boss/employee, aliens, and something akin to King Kong. I can't say I've read this combination before and I liked it.
Ava, our lead and the super hero in the story is endearing. She's a mix of insecurity and lack of confidence while also having strength and integrity. The book really focuses on Ava's relationship with Gwen, an A-list actress, both as Gwen's competent but bumbling personal assistant and as her secret identity, Swiftwing. So romance is front and center while the super hero and sci-fi aspects are secondary.
Sexuality is considered fluid and not really a big deal which I also like. There's no drama around being in the closet, it being considered a negative scandal, etc.
The book, overall, has a sweet charm and fun vibe to it.
Because it touches on a lot and it's a relatively short book it suffers from not fleshing out enough detail in any of it really. I wanted more, more, more.
From the romance side, I wasn't completely sold on Gwen because she *is* so cold and there's not really a reason why other than she's an A-list star and that's considered normal behavior? She does thaw, and Gwen grew on me, but I really wanted more of what Ava saw in Gwen during all of the times Gwen didn't treat her well, their connection being explored as equals, having them share more intimate moments, and so on. The romance was believable enough but it wasn't off the charts.
Super hero missions are more mentioned as asides as is the alien/sci-fi background. And, the Hollywood part is there just enough but also didn't feel so real. An assistant is basically working insanely long hours, is on call 24/7 living and breathing the life but Ava's job was almost more of a nine to five thing and it never really clashed with her super hero duties.
I understand this used to be a fan fiction (which gets no negative bias from me) and, honestly, I'm not 100% sure which it's pulled from. My best guess is more derived by character behavior and the fact that a line using "stuff" was said which, if it's the fan fic I'm thinking of, is a good inside joke. The good news is that it doesn't suffer from quality issues we sometimes see in fan fiction and, instead, gets the best: a fresh story.
For whatever its shortcomings, I did enjoy the read and recommend. I put this around 3.75 stars.
May 30, 2018
This book is in my list of recommended books of the month:
https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...
This is the third book in Ylva Publishing's The Superheroine Collection series of stand alone novels by different authors. The bar was set up very high with the previous books by Lee Winter and Fiona Zedde but 'Chasing stars' didn't disappoint me. The plot follows Ava Eisenberg, PA to Hollywood ice queen Gwen Knight. Ava is an alien from a far away galaxy gifted with flying and strenght superpowers who patrols LA streets under the secret identity of Swiftwing to help people in need. Ava's life is turned upside down when her boss asks her to pose as her girlfriend to win Gwen's son custody. Will Ava be a good fake girlfriend and, at the same time, keep her secret life as Swiftwing? Will she be able to hide her growing feelings for Gwen?
'Chasing stars' is a brilliant debut novel by South African author Alex K. Thorne. There's been a few lesfic books about fake relationships lately with different degrees of success but this one is original by presenting it as a sci-fi, action packed story with main characters of a superheroine and a Hollywood star ice queen. Written in third person from the point of view of Ava, she is a well rounded character in her contradictions: shy and insecure as Ava, confident and outgoing as Swiftwing. Gwen is very well characterised as an ice queen slowly giving away hidden parts of her personality. Despite their age gap, their chemistry is sizzling hot and the intimate scenes are very well written. The story itself has some twists and turns that balance romance and action perfectly.
Overall, another excellent addition to the series. A solid debut novel. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
https://lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com/...
This is the third book in Ylva Publishing's The Superheroine Collection series of stand alone novels by different authors. The bar was set up very high with the previous books by Lee Winter and Fiona Zedde but 'Chasing stars' didn't disappoint me. The plot follows Ava Eisenberg, PA to Hollywood ice queen Gwen Knight. Ava is an alien from a far away galaxy gifted with flying and strenght superpowers who patrols LA streets under the secret identity of Swiftwing to help people in need. Ava's life is turned upside down when her boss asks her to pose as her girlfriend to win Gwen's son custody. Will Ava be a good fake girlfriend and, at the same time, keep her secret life as Swiftwing? Will she be able to hide her growing feelings for Gwen?
'Chasing stars' is a brilliant debut novel by South African author Alex K. Thorne. There's been a few lesfic books about fake relationships lately with different degrees of success but this one is original by presenting it as a sci-fi, action packed story with main characters of a superheroine and a Hollywood star ice queen. Written in third person from the point of view of Ava, she is a well rounded character in her contradictions: shy and insecure as Ava, confident and outgoing as Swiftwing. Gwen is very well characterised as an ice queen slowly giving away hidden parts of her personality. Despite their age gap, their chemistry is sizzling hot and the intimate scenes are very well written. The story itself has some twists and turns that balance romance and action perfectly.
Overall, another excellent addition to the series. A solid debut novel. 5 stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at
www.lezreviewbooks.wordpress.com
March 27, 2019
Why are so many books reminding me of the movie 'Men in Black' recently?
Ava is the personal assistant to high maintenance actress, Gwen, who is 20 years her senior. But Ava has a big secret. She is an alien superhero. She also has a big fat crush on her boss.
Gwen is trying to fight her ex husband, Alfonso, for custody of their adopted son, Luke. Alfonso thinks Luke belongs with him and his girlfriend as it would be a better environment than with Gwen who is a single mother and too busy with her acting career to properly look after him.
Gwen essentially gets Ava to agree to fake date her. Because Ava could never deny Gwen anything.
Then crazy antics ensue. Lives need to be saved. Aliens need to be quarantined. Secrets need to be revealed. Feelings need to be recognized. All the fun ingredients for a good superhero story.
I liked the main characters. Both Ava and Gwen were flawed and real. They definitely had chemistry at times. However, I did think Gwen was more mean that I would have liked the character to be. I feel like the level of apathy toward Ava for most of the story hindered chemistry that could have made their relationship more rich.
Ava's best friend was a cool little geeky sidekick. The Horatio puppet master. So funny.
Glad everyone recommended this to me. It was an enjoyable quick read.
Ava is the personal assistant to high maintenance actress, Gwen, who is 20 years her senior. But Ava has a big secret. She is an alien superhero. She also has a big fat crush on her boss.
Gwen is trying to fight her ex husband, Alfonso, for custody of their adopted son, Luke. Alfonso thinks Luke belongs with him and his girlfriend as it would be a better environment than with Gwen who is a single mother and too busy with her acting career to properly look after him.
Gwen essentially gets Ava to agree to fake date her. Because Ava could never deny Gwen anything.
Then crazy antics ensue. Lives need to be saved. Aliens need to be quarantined. Secrets need to be revealed. Feelings need to be recognized. All the fun ingredients for a good superhero story.
I liked the main characters. Both Ava and Gwen were flawed and real. They definitely had chemistry at times. However, I did think Gwen was more mean that I would have liked the character to be. I feel like the level of apathy toward Ava for most of the story hindered chemistry that could have made their relationship more rich.
Ava's best friend was a cool little geeky sidekick. The Horatio puppet master. So funny.
Glad everyone recommended this to me. It was an enjoyable quick read.
January 6, 2024
This book is like a supreme pizza. I love pizza, but I'm a two or three topping girl.
In the first part of the book, all i could see was another dwp fanfic. Then i could see super girl aspects. And the end to me seemed totally swanqueen.
It's like a mashup of a lot of really good things. Fanfic, ice queen, age gap, fake relationship ... and let's make it a super hero book to boot! It's the whip cream and cherry on top of a supreme pizza. (i just made myself sick a little with that image)
In the end, this was , to me, what could have been three different 5 star books smooshed into one book. So it gets 4 stars for being spread a little too thin in its effort to be everything at once.
In the first part of the book, all i could see was another dwp fanfic. Then i could see super girl aspects. And the end to me seemed totally swanqueen.
It's like a mashup of a lot of really good things. Fanfic, ice queen, age gap, fake relationship ... and let's make it a super hero book to boot! It's the whip cream and cherry on top of a supreme pizza. (i just made myself sick a little with that image)
In the end, this was , to me, what could have been three different 5 star books smooshed into one book. So it gets 4 stars for being spread a little too thin in its effort to be everything at once.
November 19, 2018
I’m jumping in the middle of this Superheroine Series (one and two are in my to-read pile somewhere) but as they are all stand-alone novels it doesn’t matter.
Chasing Stars by Alex K. Thorne promises A fun, sweet, and sexy romance about the masks we all wear. And they did! I enjoyed myself a lot with this one and what a promising debut from this author. I really hope to see more of her.
The ever popular fake dating angle is still one of my favorite tropes if done well, and this was done very well. There was a nice slow burn build-up, likeable characters with an age-gap (another personal favorite), just an overall sweet story with a friendly cast but without it being overly sentimental or twee. The superhero plot was fun, had good pacing and was well thought out. I recommend!
f/f
Themes: giant bugs from outer space, Hollywood royalty, personal assistant, secret identity, swiftwing/Ava was adorable, great debut.
4.6 stars
Chasing Stars by Alex K. Thorne promises A fun, sweet, and sexy romance about the masks we all wear. And they did! I enjoyed myself a lot with this one and what a promising debut from this author. I really hope to see more of her.
The ever popular fake dating angle is still one of my favorite tropes if done well, and this was done very well. There was a nice slow burn build-up, likeable characters with an age-gap (another personal favorite), just an overall sweet story with a friendly cast but without it being overly sentimental or twee. The superhero plot was fun, had good pacing and was well thought out. I recommend!
f/f
Themes: giant bugs from outer space, Hollywood royalty, personal assistant, secret identity, swiftwing/Ava was adorable, great debut.
4.6 stars
February 28, 2018
*I received this book from Ylva Publishing for an honest review*
This is one of those books that is tricky for me – in that I found it both intriguing and vaguely hard to get into in the beginning, and yet, despite that ‘hard to get into’, I read 62% of the book in basically one go – and only stopped because I slumped over asleep. I mean, it was 3 am at that point.
So – this book is the third in Ylva’s stand-alone Superhero books. For various reasons I have not yet read the other two books so cannot make any comment beyond what I just stated.
I do not mean to have a series of short paragraphs but . . . I do. One of the reasons I was first lured to this book was because I happened to notice that the author was from South Africa and I’d, as far as I know, had never read a lesbian fiction book from there, set there, or otherwise connected to there. This book, though, is set in California. One of the main characters is an alien to the country, though. Alien as in literally from outer space. Well, no, that might imply something one way or another. An alien from another planet who arrived to Earth in a spaceship that had crash landed on Earth roughly . . . . 17 years prior to the start of this book. I know it was 17 years prior because the lead and solo point of view was ten when the ship crashed and is 27 now.
Ava Eisenberg has two jobs – she works as the personal assistant to a high-flying Hollywood elite actress, Gwen Knight, and she also works as Swiftwing, superhero. Like, say, Supergirl, Ava’s personality changes when she has the mask on or off. Confident, in control, powerful with mask on. Not confident, stuttering, occasionally clumsy without mask on (okay, she wobbled once in her shoes, I’m not actually sure if clumsy works here or not). And like Supergirl, Ava’s boss knows both Ava and Swiftwing – separately (referring here to the Cat Grant/Supergirl dynamic, not whoever Supergirl’s boss is at the moment on the tv show).
That boss, as noted, is Gwen Knight. Highly successful, bitchy, ice-queen like Hollywood actress of 44. Who has a young adopted son named Luke. Which is important to the story line since it’s the reason certain things unfolded. Like, say, the part where Gwen’s ex-husband has now, after years not doing so, is fighting for full custody of Luke. Because he’s, the ex-husband Alfonso, is in a stable relationship, while Gwen is not. Which is how Ava and Gwen ended up in a fake relationship to show stability or whatever it was they were trying to show.
This was a rather neat, much more interesting, deeper, more exciting book than I had expected (or thought it would be after the opening parts). And has a lot more characters of importance and story-lines than I’ve mentioned – I can’t mention everything here.
Oh, and yes, there’s a tiny bit of graphic sex embedded in the book. At least one scene (if I recall correctly, just one scene – if that kind of thing matters to review readers).
And, since I haven’t expressly mentioned it before now, there is in fact a bunch of superhero stuff that occurs in this book. Actual flying around, doing superhero type stuff.
Rating: 4.78
February 28 2018
This is one of those books that is tricky for me – in that I found it both intriguing and vaguely hard to get into in the beginning, and yet, despite that ‘hard to get into’, I read 62% of the book in basically one go – and only stopped because I slumped over asleep. I mean, it was 3 am at that point.
So – this book is the third in Ylva’s stand-alone Superhero books. For various reasons I have not yet read the other two books so cannot make any comment beyond what I just stated.
I do not mean to have a series of short paragraphs but . . . I do. One of the reasons I was first lured to this book was because I happened to notice that the author was from South Africa and I’d, as far as I know, had never read a lesbian fiction book from there, set there, or otherwise connected to there. This book, though, is set in California. One of the main characters is an alien to the country, though. Alien as in literally from outer space. Well, no, that might imply something one way or another. An alien from another planet who arrived to Earth in a spaceship that had crash landed on Earth roughly . . . . 17 years prior to the start of this book. I know it was 17 years prior because the lead and solo point of view was ten when the ship crashed and is 27 now.
Ava Eisenberg has two jobs – she works as the personal assistant to a high-flying Hollywood elite actress, Gwen Knight, and she also works as Swiftwing, superhero. Like, say, Supergirl, Ava’s personality changes when she has the mask on or off. Confident, in control, powerful with mask on. Not confident, stuttering, occasionally clumsy without mask on (okay, she wobbled once in her shoes, I’m not actually sure if clumsy works here or not). And like Supergirl, Ava’s boss knows both Ava and Swiftwing – separately (referring here to the Cat Grant/Supergirl dynamic, not whoever Supergirl’s boss is at the moment on the tv show).
That boss, as noted, is Gwen Knight. Highly successful, bitchy, ice-queen like Hollywood actress of 44. Who has a young adopted son named Luke. Which is important to the story line since it’s the reason certain things unfolded. Like, say, the part where Gwen’s ex-husband has now, after years not doing so, is fighting for full custody of Luke. Because he’s, the ex-husband Alfonso, is in a stable relationship, while Gwen is not. Which is how Ava and Gwen ended up in a fake relationship to show stability or whatever it was they were trying to show.
This was a rather neat, much more interesting, deeper, more exciting book than I had expected (or thought it would be after the opening parts). And has a lot more characters of importance and story-lines than I’ve mentioned – I can’t mention everything here.
Oh, and yes, there’s a tiny bit of graphic sex embedded in the book. At least one scene (if I recall correctly, just one scene – if that kind of thing matters to review readers).
And, since I haven’t expressly mentioned it before now, there is in fact a bunch of superhero stuff that occurs in this book. Actual flying around, doing superhero type stuff.
Rating: 4.78
February 28 2018
December 30, 2018
Chasing Stars is one interesting and enjoyable read. It’s a story about superheroes and love and is my 1st time reading this genre. Didn’t think I’ll like it but I was dead wrong. Book was well-written with age-gap leads, dialogues were great, pretend/fake romance thrown-in and with all the glamour and glitter of Hollywood added, how can I not love the book/setting - especially since I’m a sucker for anything Hollywood.
Gwen Knight, Hollywood A-lister, needed a partner to retain full custody of her son when ex-husband filed a petition. Superhero Ava, ala Supergirl, who is also Gwen’s PA stepped-in to assist after Gwen’s initial choice backed-out from the necessary facade. Feelings start to evolve between Ava and Gwen as they spent more time together outside of their work environment.
Gwen Knight, Hollywood A-lister, needed a partner to retain full custody of her son when ex-husband filed a petition. Superhero Ava, ala Supergirl, who is also Gwen’s PA stepped-in to assist after Gwen’s initial choice backed-out from the necessary facade. Feelings start to evolve between Ava and Gwen as they spent more time together outside of their work environment.
November 20, 2018
" Love isn't about facts and figures. It's about the way I feel when I look at you. It's about not caring about stuffs like age, race and species. My point is, that no one can dictate the rules. It is what it is and what it is, is everything I ever wanted "
- Ava'Kia Vala -
First off, I love the cover and I'm looking forward to read more of Ms.Thorne's when she's done taking too many pictures of cats.
I don't think I'm that familiar with Ice Queens besides most of Lee Winter's lead characters so I'm incapable to rate Gwendolyn Knight's iciness level.. However, she does hit mine and Ava's nerves a few times with her icy forwardness. Despite her IQ characterization, she's a professional actress -doesn't have a single Diva DNA, a loving mum and a philanthropist.
Now to Ava - Although Gwen comes with the proposal, Ava is the main pursuer in their relationship. She works two high profile/demanding jobs but always remaining cool and awesome. Wooing Gwen is hard work and there are moments of weakness that makes her feel like giving up.. Superman needs to be informed that he's no longer the only one for me... I have Swiftwing to crush on.
Eisenknight - For those who love their hs to have loads of quality scenes together, flirts, banters, dialogues, then say no more and check out this gem.
- Ava'Kia Vala -
First off, I love the cover and I'm looking forward to read more of Ms.Thorne's when she's done taking too many pictures of cats.
I don't think I'm that familiar with Ice Queens besides most of Lee Winter's lead characters so I'm incapable to rate Gwendolyn Knight's iciness level.. However, she does hit mine and Ava's nerves a few times with her icy forwardness. Despite her IQ characterization, she's a professional actress -doesn't have a single Diva DNA, a loving mum and a philanthropist.
Now to Ava - Although Gwen comes with the proposal, Ava is the main pursuer in their relationship. She works two high profile/demanding jobs but always remaining cool and awesome. Wooing Gwen is hard work and there are moments of weakness that makes her feel like giving up.. Superman needs to be informed that he's no longer the only one for me... I have Swiftwing to crush on.
Eisenknight - For those who love their hs to have loads of quality scenes together, flirts, banters, dialogues, then say no more and check out this gem.
March 29, 2018
‘Chasing Stars’ is definitely one of my favorite books of the year so far and is going on my ‘favorite’ and ‘to-re-read’ shelves. While being a really simple read, it still hits almost all of my preferred tropes: age-gap, ice queen, boss/assistant, actress, fake dating, superhero! Regardless of this sounding like a whole lot of trope, ‘Chasing Stars’ throws all of these at the reader…and does it really well without ever feeling overwhelming or cliche. This book is everything I didn’t know I needed. The only thing I’m upset about right now is that I read through this so quickly and it’s now over. While it’s not perfect (there is some stuff we don’t get to see because we’re only told about it, like SwiftWing and Gwen’s interactions pre-faking-dating), I do feel a bit sorry for whatever book I choose to read next. For my personal tastes, ‘Chasing Stars’ gets all the stars.
May 24, 2018
This is a sweet and rather good book about superheroines, aliens and A-list actresses. And love, of course. The story is heavy on romance and light on action.
Ava, the superheroine, is simply charming. Gwen, the ice queen, is... well the ice queen. They are in a fake relationship (fake relationship books seem to be trendy), with Ava hiding her superpowers and her feelings for Gwen. Despite their age gap, their chemistry is out of the charts. The only thing I miss in this book is a little more information about the aliens and the alien ship.
Ava, the superheroine, is simply charming. Gwen, the ice queen, is... well the ice queen. They are in a fake relationship (fake relationship books seem to be trendy), with Ava hiding her superpowers and her feelings for Gwen. Despite their age gap, their chemistry is out of the charts. The only thing I miss in this book is a little more information about the aliens and the alien ship.
December 1, 2019
Originally starting with the audiobook of this, I regret to say I had to stop due to the fluctuating English accent for MC Gwen, that was kind of a mix of English and some other dialect. My apologies to the narrator, but it just didn't fit for these ears. But I did become hooked on the story so started up the book and I'm glad I did!
This is a fun and light read, featuring a superhero by a surprising lead, as Ava didn't strike me as very superhero-y. She is awkward and can barely speak without stumbling over her words, something that was charming at first but did become somewhat annoying. I longed for more scenes of the confident Ava as Swiftwing, but sadly we don't get many of these. By day she is assistant to Gwen Knight, a famous actress/ice queen who is 17 years hers senior. I didn't mind the age gap, and I liked these two as a couple. The slow build of chemistry, and the fact that Gwen's life was saved by Swiftwing in the past means they have a past, but Ava has to keep her identity secret.
I liked the unique nuances of the book, for example the coalition of humans to protect the aliens rights, Ava's grief over losing her family, how humans interacted with aliens, etc. I do like me some variety with my lesfics.
There's some alien stuff, some slime, some flying, some lifting-of-cars, some sexy times, and some great supporting characters. Overall I quite enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by this author.
This is a fun and light read, featuring a superhero by a surprising lead, as Ava didn't strike me as very superhero-y. She is awkward and can barely speak without stumbling over her words, something that was charming at first but did become somewhat annoying. I longed for more scenes of the confident Ava as Swiftwing, but sadly we don't get many of these. By day she is assistant to Gwen Knight, a famous actress/ice queen who is 17 years hers senior. I didn't mind the age gap, and I liked these two as a couple. The slow build of chemistry, and the fact that Gwen's life was saved by Swiftwing in the past means they have a past, but Ava has to keep her identity secret.
I liked the unique nuances of the book, for example the coalition of humans to protect the aliens rights, Ava's grief over losing her family, how humans interacted with aliens, etc. I do like me some variety with my lesfics.
There's some alien stuff, some slime, some flying, some lifting-of-cars, some sexy times, and some great supporting characters. Overall I quite enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by this author.
April 18, 2019
The third book in the series, less dark than the previous two but still really really good. After finishing Lee Winter's Requiem for Immortals, I needed a lighter read, something fun. Though not as light as it seems, Chasing Stars was perfect. The romance was sweet, the MCs are complex and interesting, the writing was good, and I love superheroes :)
September 7, 2022
Story 4,5 ⭐️
Narrator Abigail Rakocy 5 ⭐️
The narrator was very good and I enjoyed listen to Abigail Rakocy.
Narrator Abigail Rakocy 5 ⭐️
The narrator was very good and I enjoyed listen to Abigail Rakocy.
October 30, 2018
I have been rereading this book as the October's Sapphic Book Club read hosted by sapphicbookclub.
So at the beginning of this review I want to take a moment to point out and appreciate the fact that the main character's favorite underwear has T-Rexes vomiting rainbows on them.
Amazing choice of a detail to mention in your book. 10/10.
I want them. Someone tell me if they really exist!
I think when you first read about this book, it all sounds a bit much: Superhero-ing, alien politics, crime fighting, movie stars, fake dating, custody battle.
But this is really a superheroine story that shows how much else can go on in a superheroes life besides being a superhero.
Ava is a very likable character - she is sweet and a good person, she has dreams and the urge to help people, but she is also standing up for herself and the people she loves. She is lovely, clever and can also throw punches - which is a combination I appreciate in ladies.
Gwen is an Ice Queen with a lot of heart and it was a joy to observe her from Ava's perspective.
The focus of the story is not alone on the mystery attacks Ava as hero is trying to solve and not alone on Ava as assisstent fake dating her boss/falling in love with her boss, which prevents it from getting repetitive. Here, I read an action scene and i feel like i enjoy it more because afterwards Ava will get back to dealing with issues of her 'other life' that are very different from the superhero life.
I would have liked it if there'd been even more focus on the fake dating part, but I won't complain. Both storylines interwine enough and come to a connecting end.
I liked the way Ava's backstory and the alien issue was done. That the earth integrated laws for the coexistence of humans and aliens, there are advocats fighting for their rights and they become a part of society. I think it's always most interesting to read how humans react and accommodate to foreigners in those stories where they don't just plainly fight them out of stupidity and fear.
I also liked that Gwen was an advocate for the rights of the Andromeda Orphans here and trying to support women in the film business, i thought that was a nice detail and it explains why Ava would have wanted to work for her especially in the beginning of her career, even tho her reputation within assistants might have been poorly.
So at the beginning of this review I want to take a moment to point out and appreciate the fact that the main character's favorite underwear has T-Rexes vomiting rainbows on them.
Amazing choice of a detail to mention in your book. 10/10.
I want them. Someone tell me if they really exist!
I think when you first read about this book, it all sounds a bit much: Superhero-ing, alien politics, crime fighting, movie stars, fake dating, custody battle.
But this is really a superheroine story that shows how much else can go on in a superheroes life besides being a superhero.
Ava is a very likable character - she is sweet and a good person, she has dreams and the urge to help people, but she is also standing up for herself and the people she loves. She is lovely, clever and can also throw punches - which is a combination I appreciate in ladies.
Gwen is an Ice Queen with a lot of heart and it was a joy to observe her from Ava's perspective.
The focus of the story is not alone on the mystery attacks Ava as hero is trying to solve and not alone on Ava as assisstent fake dating her boss/falling in love with her boss, which prevents it from getting repetitive. Here, I read an action scene and i feel like i enjoy it more because afterwards Ava will get back to dealing with issues of her 'other life' that are very different from the superhero life.
I would have liked it if there'd been even more focus on the fake dating part, but I won't complain. Both storylines interwine enough and come to a connecting end.
I liked the way Ava's backstory and the alien issue was done. That the earth integrated laws for the coexistence of humans and aliens, there are advocats fighting for their rights and they become a part of society. I think it's always most interesting to read how humans react and accommodate to foreigners in those stories where they don't just plainly fight them out of stupidity and fear.
I also liked that Gwen was an advocate for the rights of the Andromeda Orphans here and trying to support women in the film business, i thought that was a nice detail and it explains why Ava would have wanted to work for her especially in the beginning of her career, even tho her reputation within assistants might have been poorly.
March 2, 2018
Chasing Stars is the third novel in the Super-heroine Collection. This is also Alex K Thorne’s first novel. I rarely give a 5 star review as I reserve this ranking for the extraordinary novels and Chasing Stars is that and more.
The second page of the dedication had me laughing and intrigued at the same time. I just knew I was going to be entertained by this novel.
The prologue in one and a quarter pages gives you a comprehensive yet concise background to Ava’Kia Vala of the planet Zrix’dhor and the Andromeda Orphans. Ava survived the crash landing of the ship carrying many different species of aliens. She takes her special powers and uses them for good.
The main plot is centred around a “fake” couple-ship. I know, I know, not that again however Ms Thorne elevates this classic theme to new heights by her excellent plot development and the main characters quirky personalities.
Throw in some old ball space aliens and this novel had me reading all night to finish in one sitting. I look forward to the next work by Alex K. Thorne.
5 stars
The second page of the dedication had me laughing and intrigued at the same time. I just knew I was going to be entertained by this novel.
The prologue in one and a quarter pages gives you a comprehensive yet concise background to Ava’Kia Vala of the planet Zrix’dhor and the Andromeda Orphans. Ava survived the crash landing of the ship carrying many different species of aliens. She takes her special powers and uses them for good.
The main plot is centred around a “fake” couple-ship. I know, I know, not that again however Ms Thorne elevates this classic theme to new heights by her excellent plot development and the main characters quirky personalities.
Throw in some old ball space aliens and this novel had me reading all night to finish in one sitting. I look forward to the next work by Alex K. Thorne.
5 stars
October 31, 2020
OK ... So ...
I liked this quick-read novel because it's about a likeable superheroine and it's sweet.
But, sadly, this book about a superheroine fighting against aliens who's head over heels in love with her A-list actress boss is not as developed as it could have been ... :
°° even if the romance is here, it is not as deep as it coudl have been. Developing it sligthly more would have been interesting because there was a lot at stake ...
and
°° that was pretty light on action ...
Having a richer action and a better character development (including the development of a relationship between Ava and Luke due to, let's say, their "common heritage") would have been interesting and could have given the story a real depth... The kind you love and hope to watch on a big screen ...
I hope that the author will consider an extended version of the book if t has to been released a second time.
And in the same time, this edition work would allow her to get rid of the typos found here and there which spoil this quite well written book.
I liked this quick-read novel because it's about a likeable superheroine and it's sweet.
But, sadly, this book about a superheroine fighting against aliens who's head over heels in love with her A-list actress boss is not as developed as it could have been ... :
°° even if the romance is here, it is not as deep as it coudl have been. Developing it sligthly more would have been interesting because there was a lot at stake ...
and
°° that was pretty light on action ...
Having a richer action and a better character development (including the development of a relationship between Ava and Luke due to, let's say, their "common heritage") would have been interesting and could have given the story a real depth... The kind you love and hope to watch on a big screen ...
I hope that the author will consider an extended version of the book if t has to been released a second time.
And in the same time, this edition work would allow her to get rid of the typos found here and there which spoil this quite well written book.
September 24, 2018
I loved the characters, and the superhero plot. I feel greedy for saying this, but I wish there had been a little more of the superhero plot elements. In particular, I am interested in seeing our hero grow into her role. The book was well written and I will be reading any future books by Thorne.
March 4, 2018
I enjoyed this book. It was light and easy to read, pleasant way to pass a rainy afternoon.
The story focuses on Ava, alien, nice perhaps too doormat nice for her own good particularly around her ice queen boss Gwen. Gwen did not always come across nice and put on Ava. I'm not usually a fan of fake relationships, but did not mind with this one.
I enjoyed the 2 characters interactions and their growing relationships. Enjoyed and wanted more of the secondary characters such as Nic.
Overall an enjoyable, well written book.
Arc received for honest review.
The story focuses on Ava, alien, nice perhaps too doormat nice for her own good particularly around her ice queen boss Gwen. Gwen did not always come across nice and put on Ava. I'm not usually a fan of fake relationships, but did not mind with this one.
I enjoyed the 2 characters interactions and their growing relationships. Enjoyed and wanted more of the secondary characters such as Nic.
Overall an enjoyable, well written book.
Arc received for honest review.
February 6, 2022
I read this in a day! It's a good, quick read.
Celebrity, fake dating, superheroes? All favourite tropes of mine in one book? Yes please!!
Gwen is a famous actress and Ava is her personal assistant. She's also Swiftwing, LA's resident superhero. I got big supercorp vibes off this story, which is a plus for me!
The writing was easy to read, Ava and Gwen were good protagonists, and the side characters were good too.
I did think the climax wasn't really much of a climax but it was still a fun read! I'm going to check out the authors other work now!
Celebrity, fake dating, superheroes? All favourite tropes of mine in one book? Yes please!!
Gwen is a famous actress and Ava is her personal assistant. She's also Swiftwing, LA's resident superhero. I got big supercorp vibes off this story, which is a plus for me!
The writing was easy to read, Ava and Gwen were good protagonists, and the side characters were good too.
I did think the climax wasn't really much of a climax but it was still a fun read! I'm going to check out the authors other work now!
April 2, 2022
3 stars
This wasn't bad, but to me it felt like a souped up Cat Grant/Supergirl FanFiction. So for those of you who like the "bitchy boss with few redeeming qualities" trope, go ahead, you might like this. I couldn't understand why Ava would put up with so much from her boss, not to mention fall in love with her, but maybe I'm just built differently.
All in all, it's well written, just not my style and I think it hasn't fulfilled it's potential.
This wasn't bad, but to me it felt like a souped up Cat Grant/Supergirl FanFiction. So for those of you who like the "bitchy boss with few redeeming qualities" trope, go ahead, you might like this. I couldn't understand why Ava would put up with so much from her boss, not to mention fall in love with her, but maybe I'm just built differently.
All in all, it's well written, just not my style and I think it hasn't fulfilled it's potential.
September 16, 2020
3.5/5 stars
Fauxmance, celebrity romance and superheroines...this book really does have it all. This was such a fun, smile-inducing read. I honestly enjoyed every minute of it and definitely recommend it if you're looking for a sweet and highly entertaining romance. It also helps that this has all my favourite lesfic tropes, I am just a sucker for fauxmance and romances with famous people. The superhero aspect was somewhat secondary, but still a major part, which just added some uniqueness and fun to the mix.
While this was definitely an enjoyable read, I didn't connect to it as much as I wanted to. I enjoyed it while I was reading but it is not something that I will remember or want to re-read. I fell like this is mainly because I never connected to our main characters. I think their relationship was really good, but I didn't particularly care about either of them enough on their own to get truly invested. The chemistry was still pretty good (although not the best that I've read) and their relationship, as I said before, was definitely fun to read.
I just love how different the books in this 'series' are turning out to be. They are all standalones and the authors are definitely putting their unique spins on the superhero genre in each book. While Shattered was much more contemplative and much less romance-heavy, this book was much lighter and heart-warming. And while this isn't my favourite book, I did enjoy the author's storytelling and am excited to read more from her in the future.
Fauxmance, celebrity romance and superheroines...this book really does have it all. This was such a fun, smile-inducing read. I honestly enjoyed every minute of it and definitely recommend it if you're looking for a sweet and highly entertaining romance. It also helps that this has all my favourite lesfic tropes, I am just a sucker for fauxmance and romances with famous people. The superhero aspect was somewhat secondary, but still a major part, which just added some uniqueness and fun to the mix.
While this was definitely an enjoyable read, I didn't connect to it as much as I wanted to. I enjoyed it while I was reading but it is not something that I will remember or want to re-read. I fell like this is mainly because I never connected to our main characters. I think their relationship was really good, but I didn't particularly care about either of them enough on their own to get truly invested. The chemistry was still pretty good (although not the best that I've read) and their relationship, as I said before, was definitely fun to read.
I just love how different the books in this 'series' are turning out to be. They are all standalones and the authors are definitely putting their unique spins on the superhero genre in each book. While Shattered was much more contemplative and much less romance-heavy, this book was much lighter and heart-warming. And while this isn't my favourite book, I did enjoy the author's storytelling and am excited to read more from her in the future.
December 30, 2019
“Chasing Stars - (The Superheroine Collection #3)” is a fun lesbian superheroine adventure with terrific narration!
This is a fake relationship story with an added twist: one of the two is also a secret identity for a superheroine!
As MCs Gwen and Eva struggle with their growing affection for each other, they struggle with having sex for the sake of sex, or waiting until they’re both sure of love.
I could say more, but my first sentence says it all! 5*
This is a fake relationship story with an added twist: one of the two is also a secret identity for a superheroine!
As MCs Gwen and Eva struggle with their growing affection for each other, they struggle with having sex for the sake of sex, or waiting until they’re both sure of love.
I could say more, but my first sentence says it all! 5*
May 14, 2019
This was a nice, light read with an adorably nerdy MC, which is a serious kryptonite for me. I hope this author writes some more because I am definitely a big fan now.
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
April 26, 2018
This was ok for me. I can't really pinpoint why....a lot of the angst felt over the top maybe? I don't know. It was pleasant, I liked it.
March 12, 2018
Though it has superheros in it and Ava is one, the superhero themes are toned down in this third standalone novel of the Super Heroines series by Ylva.
The focus here is the relationships that Ava develops as a superhero and herself. She basically has two jobs, in one she struggles to be accepted by her colleagues, while in the other, she has to navigate working for a harsh and demanding boss. She also has an amazing friend in Nic, who's like "M" to her Bond. How Ava interacts with Gwen, super star actress and entrepreneur, feels a little off at first. She's way too nice for how Gwen treats her, but Ava feels like Gwen needs her on some level so she sticks around. She's proven right when Gwen proposes a fake relationship so she can maintain custody of her son, Luke. The pair's strange, symbiotic relationship develops into a romance that neither Ava or Gwen are quite prepared for.
I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would. There have been a lot of "fake relationship" stories coming out from Ylva, and I felt a bit of fatigue from that trope. But this one is interesting because there is an established relationship between Gwen and Ava, and that Ava is essentially in a faked relationship with Gwen from the beginning. Being Gwen's assistant is her cover and she often has to come up with excuses or lies for her absences. They also play on The Devil Wears Prada tropes of the mentor/student. Gwen is a typical ice queen with a warm heart, and I enjoy reading her imperious dialog.
With all those plots woven into the story, it gave it a lot to work with and became more enjoyable for it. It's impressive that Thorne is able to maneuver through all of these issues and more without the story seeming to bounce all over the place.
This is a great light read that I'd recommend for romance readers, and fans of May-December relationships.
*I received this ARC from Ylva in exchange for my honest opinion.*
The focus here is the relationships that Ava develops as a superhero and herself. She basically has two jobs, in one she struggles to be accepted by her colleagues, while in the other, she has to navigate working for a harsh and demanding boss. She also has an amazing friend in Nic, who's like "M" to her Bond. How Ava interacts with Gwen, super star actress and entrepreneur, feels a little off at first. She's way too nice for how Gwen treats her, but Ava feels like Gwen needs her on some level so she sticks around. She's proven right when Gwen proposes a fake relationship so she can maintain custody of her son, Luke. The pair's strange, symbiotic relationship develops into a romance that neither Ava or Gwen are quite prepared for.
I enjoyed this way more than I thought I would. There have been a lot of "fake relationship" stories coming out from Ylva, and I felt a bit of fatigue from that trope. But this one is interesting because there is an established relationship between Gwen and Ava, and that Ava is essentially in a faked relationship with Gwen from the beginning. Being Gwen's assistant is her cover and she often has to come up with excuses or lies for her absences. They also play on The Devil Wears Prada tropes of the mentor/student. Gwen is a typical ice queen with a warm heart, and I enjoy reading her imperious dialog.
With all those plots woven into the story, it gave it a lot to work with and became more enjoyable for it. It's impressive that Thorne is able to maneuver through all of these issues and more without the story seeming to bounce all over the place.
This is a great light read that I'd recommend for romance readers, and fans of May-December relationships.
*I received this ARC from Ylva in exchange for my honest opinion.*
February 12, 2019
ARC received via YLVA in exchange for an honest review.
I first read this as a fanfic, and it’s always hard to read a converted fanfic without seeing the characters in their initial incarnations. I did think the new setting and characterisations were interesting, although there were some occasions where they didn’t quite translate to how the story was being told now (their jobs made more sense in the original version, and Gwen’s relationship with Swiftwing wasn’t as organic in this one, I didn’t find it as believable that the superhero would befriend the actress). I also didn’t like Swiftwing as a superhero name, but that’s just me.
The characters themselves are interesting, although given that this was made into a novel, a bit more of Ava’s backstory would have been better and added more to her character. I did like her relationship with Nic, but again thought her family situation on Earth could have been fleshed out more here.
I found the alien monster storyline the weakest part, but it didn’t take up too much time. I like the older/younger trope, and it’s done well here, especially as it’s not hard to believe that Ava’s circumstances would make her more mature than her years. The relationship between them deepens naturally given the circumstances, and Luke was a little cutie.
Overall, this is a nice debut novel, and something out of the ordinary for lesfic. I look forward to more from this author.
I first read this as a fanfic, and it’s always hard to read a converted fanfic without seeing the characters in their initial incarnations. I did think the new setting and characterisations were interesting, although there were some occasions where they didn’t quite translate to how the story was being told now (their jobs made more sense in the original version, and Gwen’s relationship with Swiftwing wasn’t as organic in this one, I didn’t find it as believable that the superhero would befriend the actress). I also didn’t like Swiftwing as a superhero name, but that’s just me.
The characters themselves are interesting, although given that this was made into a novel, a bit more of Ava’s backstory would have been better and added more to her character. I did like her relationship with Nic, but again thought her family situation on Earth could have been fleshed out more here.
I found the alien monster storyline the weakest part, but it didn’t take up too much time. I like the older/younger trope, and it’s done well here, especially as it’s not hard to believe that Ava’s circumstances would make her more mature than her years. The relationship between them deepens naturally given the circumstances, and Luke was a little cutie.
Overall, this is a nice debut novel, and something out of the ordinary for lesfic. I look forward to more from this author.
February 28, 2018
Be still my beating heart! From very early on I was utterly smitten with both Ava and Gwen, two of the most vulnerable but also mesmerising and intoxicating characters I've had the pleasure of spending the day with in a while.
Gwendolyn Knight is a politically active but still very successful, Hollywood actress with a string of ex-husbands, a precocious son and a long-suffering assistant Ava Eisenberg, who really wants to be a screenwriter but is instead fetching the screen queen's essential "almond macadamia milk latte with a smidge of maple syrup." When she's not procuring caffeinated beverages, or managing Gwen's schedule Ava just so happens to spend her time fighting crime and saving the citizens of LA from one disaster after another in the guise of Swiftwing - everyone's favourite supersonic superhero. As Swiftwing, not only is Ava able to help others but the mask that comes with the cape gives her the confidence to be a friend to Gwen in a way that Ava feels she never could be. As if dealing with all of that wasn't enough, when Gwen needs a fake partner to help her beat her ex in a custody hearing and her male co-star backs out, who else is she going to turn to but the ever-reliable Eva?
The best recommendation I can give this book is that I read it from start to finish in one day! On one level it's a fantastic superhero adventure, then there's the insane romantic and sexual tension running through the text but the real clincher is the beautiful writing and the way Alex K. Thorne negotiates the layers of meaning around identity and the literal and metaphorical masks we wear to hide our vulnerabilities from the outside world.
Buy it and read it right now.
Gwendolyn Knight is a politically active but still very successful, Hollywood actress with a string of ex-husbands, a precocious son and a long-suffering assistant Ava Eisenberg, who really wants to be a screenwriter but is instead fetching the screen queen's essential "almond macadamia milk latte with a smidge of maple syrup." When she's not procuring caffeinated beverages, or managing Gwen's schedule Ava just so happens to spend her time fighting crime and saving the citizens of LA from one disaster after another in the guise of Swiftwing - everyone's favourite supersonic superhero. As Swiftwing, not only is Ava able to help others but the mask that comes with the cape gives her the confidence to be a friend to Gwen in a way that Ava feels she never could be. As if dealing with all of that wasn't enough, when Gwen needs a fake partner to help her beat her ex in a custody hearing and her male co-star backs out, who else is she going to turn to but the ever-reliable Eva?
The best recommendation I can give this book is that I read it from start to finish in one day! On one level it's a fantastic superhero adventure, then there's the insane romantic and sexual tension running through the text but the real clincher is the beautiful writing and the way Alex K. Thorne negotiates the layers of meaning around identity and the literal and metaphorical masks we wear to hide our vulnerabilities from the outside world.
Buy it and read it right now.
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