Reviewed by: Sue Eaton
TITLE: Breathless Recruiter
SERIES: Grunts of Vanguard #1
AUTHOR: Ryder O’Malley
PUBLISHER: Self Published
LENGTH: 244 pages
RELEASE DATE: November 13, 2024
BLURB:
Vanguard’s third strongest hero, and I still sleep with a night light.
To blend in with the earthlings, my alter-ego, Wyatt Supreme, works at Secret Identities Incorporated. Nobody suspects that I’m the infamous hero Mr. Supreme… except for my boss… and my coworkers. I love my office, but I can’t let them know that behind these perfect dimples and bulging biceps is the heart of a coward.
Then there’s Dustin, the hunky and fearless security guard. Nothing scares him, and when he heroically saves me from a villain, I’m smitten. It’ll never amount to anything more than flirting in the office, but I can’t stop thinking about his massive… nightstick. Maybe if I ask him out, some of that courage will rub off?
I’m trying to be brave. What if I get hurt? Or worse, an innocent bystander gets killed? I’ll admit it, I’m scared. Where’s a real hero when you need one?
Time to put on my big boy pants and save the day.
REVIEW:
I enjoyed returning to the Vanguard world, this book is set within Secret Identities Inc. while they work to set up and launch the Hero App. Wyatt is an interesting mix, an alien who was sent to earth when he was child, to protect everyone. He had a rough start but was eventually found and protected by his adopted Mum. His alter ego is Mr Supreme and he loves going out and helping to protect people and defeat villans. Despite being on earth for many years there is so much he doesn’t understand especially people, their emotions and they way they interact. Keeping his true identity hidden leads to a constant fear of being discovered, which affects his interactions with people. Wyatt’s powers set him apart, making it difficult for him to relate to the mundane aspects of human life. He has to consciously suppress his abilities to blend in, which is frustrating and isolating. Wyatt is used to being strong and in control. Showing vulnerability, especially in a human context, is a significant struggle for him. This fear hinders his ability to build authentic relationships. His responsibilities as a superhero often mean he can’t fully engage in social activities or form deep personal connections. This isolation exacerbates his insecurities and makes it harder for him to open up to others, including Dustin. Wyatt harbors self-doubt and fears he won’t be accepted for who he truly is, plus the very real fear of being locked up in a laboratory and experimented on. Superhero’s are one thing but aliens wouldn’t scientists love to get their hands on him.
Dustin is the cute security guard who works in the same building as Wyatt, who catches Wyatts eye, makes him flustered and feels things he has never felt before. He is hunky and fearless, showing bravery in the face of danger. Confident and strong, he leaps into situations that require protection and defense. Dustin is genuine and straightforward, making him an attractive and trustworthy. His actions show a deep sense of loyalty and care, especially towards Wyatt.
Together, they make a compelling pair, balancing each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Wyatt’s heroism and Dustin’s bravery create a dynamic relationship filled with growth, trust, and love. Their journey is marked by challenges but also by moments of humor and heartfelt connection.
Wyatt and Dustin face several challenges in their relationship, Wyatt’s dual life as both a recruiter and a superhero creates tension. Keeping his true identity a secret from Dustin is a major obstacle that impacts on trust and intimacy. Wyatt struggles with his own fears and insecurities, especially when it comes to expressing his feelings for Dustin. His self-doubt is a significant barrier to taking their relationship forward, they face external threats from villains and these threats not only put their lives at risk but also test their relationship. It was lovely to see them face their fears together, definitely stronger together vibe. They each are able to teach the other something.
This book was filled with action and humour it creates a dynamic and engaging storyline as Wyatt and Dustin navigate their feelings and circumstances. Their journey is one of growth, bravery, and love.
RATING: 
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