As a follow-up to 'The Love Interest' this doesn't disappoint. The shift in focus works really well, as expectations of Jenna have changed, and so theoretically has the world of Heroes. This is fun and action-packed whilst softly asking some bigger questions of it's teenage readers - I will be recommending this one to lots of my library users [after they've read the first of course, as this is a great, easily-read duology].

THE HERO COMPLEX is an action-packed duology finale about how traditions can stifle progress and the pressure on trailblazers.

Now Jenna is aware of her powers, the book can throw her into a lot more action scenes and use her water powers. I loved the underwater drill sequence for how it coupled tension and an intense relationship moment. The Australia sequence was a great look at how super hero powers could be used to help people (and not just punch CGI aliens a la the MCU.) So much happens that it does feel like a movie.

It also really captures what it might be like to be a superhero and just a teen. Jenna is dealing with panic attacks, her best friend's breakup, and her own romantic feelings - and has the eyes on the world on her. I like her voice, it feels like an actual teen.

Where THE LOVE INTEREST examined the sexism present in traditional superhero narratives, THE HERO COMPLEX looks at the pressures and attention on trail blazers. Jenna is asked more about her love life and her clothing than her powers or beliefs. She is criticised for mistakes made due to being new to the job.

I really appreciated that this book (and series) hasn't taken the route of "first female hero fighting against sexism so the men are all awful." There's so much more nuance in it, looking at structures and the reasons we go with or against the status quo.

The second villain of this book is a woman, the main article writer we read who is rapidly anti-Jenna (and many of the reporters focused on clothing) are women. In fact, most of the men with a lot of page time are actually decent. I really liked that this book didn't go for a black and white - that approach is too simplistic and doesn't reflect the complexity of these issues in real life.

It's a great end to this series and I will be picking up whatever Helen writes next!

This book suffered from middle book syndrome. It was good, but maybe it is me but I felt that the writing was a bit juvenile despite the fact that it is a YA book. I enjoyed book 1 but I was hoping for more character development particularly from Jenna Ray and Blaze. Tomas was a new character whose personality and characterisation was needed for the book. The plot did get fleshed out and I enjoyed seeing more from Jenna's family.

Jenna Ray used to be the Love Interest. Now, she’s the Hero: officially recognised, visibly powerful, and thrown head-first into a world that demands far more than she was prepared for. But as The Hero Complex makes clear from the start, being labelled a hero doesn’t make life any easier.

As a member of the HPA (Hero Protection Agency), Jenna is expected to perform under pressure, keep up with intense training, maintain perfect composure, and serve as a symbol of hope for a divided public—especially as some call for the return of disgraced figurehead King Ron. Comerford uses this premise to explore the impossible standards placed on trailblazers, particularly women and young people. Jenna is not just expected to succeed; she’s expected to be flawless. The book thoughtfully highlights the exhaustion and emotional toll that comes with being “the first,” a theme that resonates strongly and is handled with nuance, at least early on.

Jenna’s powers are tied to her emotions, and panic attacks trigger dangerous surges—something she desperately tries to hide. This secret adds another layer of tension to her already overburdened life. And then there’s Blaze: her teammate, her not-boyfriend, her constant emotional tether. Their romance is one of the strongest parts of the book. The fact that they can work together but can’t be together creates a compelling push-pull dynamic. It’s painfully relatable in a YA context, and Comerford captures the awkwardness and longing with charm and authenticity.

Still, for all its strengths, The Hero Complex stumbles in several key areas. The middle portion of the book slows to a crawl, with scenes (like a particularly flat fire-fighting moment) that don’t do much to serve the plot or deepen character development. There’s also a lack of clarity in world-building, particularly around the EV, a mysterious force that shifts between being described as a virus and a sentient presence. It’s hard to stay invested when the rules of the world feel inconsistent.

The HPA, which should be a source of structure and purpose, often reads like a parody of authoritarian incompetence. The literal chip in Jenna’s wrist, the forced frilly pink suit, and the way Mia (the new head of the agency) piles unrealistic expectations on Jenna without support, all make the agency feel cartoonishly antagonistic. And while Shelley, one of the central antagonists, is clearly meant to be menacing, her monologuing veers into ridiculous, often tipping serious scenes into unintentional comedy.

Some plotlines, like the one involving Okorie, vanish without resolution, and several moments rely on convenient logic breaks (like the guards not questioning obviously teenaged reporters during a prison visit). The story’s structure also suffers from tonal whiplash. The tension between Blaze and Jenna is compelling, and moments of normalcy - like your boyfriend meeting your dad - give the book heart. But these are frequently interrupted by clunky exposition or overly didactic messaging.

By the final act, the pace picks up again. The build-up to the climax is genuinely gripping, and the ocean escape sequence is one of the best in the book. The big battle scene that follows is cinematic and satisfying. Blaze’s development, especially his sense of guilt, imposter syndrome, and eventual sacrifice, is a highlight and reinforces his position as a true hero.

However, as the story wraps up and the world begins to “reset” with the truth about Ron’s corruption and the rise of a new, more inclusive HPA, the messaging starts to feel preachy. The themes of girl power and love across boundaries are essential and commendable, but the delivery becomes so heavy-handed that it loses emotional subtlety.

Ultimately, The Hero Complex is a mixed bag. There’s heart here, and a lot of ambition in what it tries to say about power, responsibility, identity, and growing up under public scrutiny. Jenna’s personal arc is strong, the romance feels real, and there are moments of real engagement and tension. But the book’s pacing issues, occasionally clumsy execution, and thematic bluntness hold it back from being truly great.

A solid 3-star read: worth picking up if you're invested in Jenna’s story, but go in knowing it’s not all smooth sailing.

If you are looking for a lighthearted, fun and action packed fantasy read about superheroes, then this is definitely one for your tbr.

I absolutely devoured The Hero Complex and wow, what a ride. I blasted through this book - no pun intended, I promise.

Jenna Ray, who used to be the love interest, is now the actual HERO. But as she quickly discovers, having superpowers doesn't suddenly make life a breeze. In fact, it seems to complicate everything. For starters, being an official superhero means she can work alongside the dashing Blaze, but they can't actually be together, despite their undeniable chemistry.

Comerford does a brilliant job of balancing the high-stakes action with genuine humour and a relatable human element. You'll be rooting for Jenna every step of the way as she navigates the complexities of her new life. This book is a fantastic escape and a refreshing take on the superhero genre. Seriously, pick it up!

Jenna's determination to be the "perfect hero" is both admirable and heartbreaking.

Thank you so much to Bloomsbury for gifting me this e-arc for review.

Humorous, anything but sappy, action packed fantasy for teenagers and up. Superb mix of characters to enjoy. Henna Ray, female teenage lead that suffers from anxiety, has gone from love interest to the Hero Blaze, to now being sidelined (Find that out by reading book one, The Love Interest. Read it first, it’s also a blast). All she wants to do is be as good a Hero as she can be. That’s going to have to be pretty good with a world to save. And, oh, she’s not allowed to kiss Blaze. Which could be a bit of a problem because he grounds her, and more importantly she is head over heels in love with him. But first she has to prove that she’s not a villain, a possibly difficult task. And then save the world. What is a sometimes terrified teenager to do? Helen Comerford has done that very difficult thing. To write an exciting concluding book two that is, I think, even better than book one. Thank you to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc (Uk and ANZ) for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.

Very Minor Spoliers!

The Hero Complex is a gripping and emotionally charged sequel.. Helen Comerford has created a an addictive YA story that is hard to put down!

I loved Jenna Ray from the Love Interest, who navigates the tension between personal trauma and public expectation with raw honesty. Without giving too much away, Jenna's decision to become a hero comes at a personal cost especially in her relationship with Blaze. Their connection is real and emotional, making it all the more heartbreaking when her new path means they can't be together. It's a bittersweet twist that adds to the addictiveness of this book.

A standout new character is Tommas, who brings some much-needed lightness and humour. He's funny, lovable, and adds a refreshing dynamic to the story that balances the heavier moments.

One of the things I appreciated most, as someone who lives with anxiety, is how Jenna handles her own mental health. The techniques she uses throughout the book, like grounding, breathing exercises, and mindfulness are not only authentic but also subtly helpful for readers. It's empowering to see a hero who shares something that I personally deal with everyday, and I think many readers with anxiety will find comfort and support in her story.

Again if you enjoyed The Boys, then you'll love this! It's less graphic and more wholesome!

5 stars for The Hero Complex

This was a masterpiece! You cannot convince me that this book isn’t a metaphor for what is going on in the world right now.

I am almost sad that this is only a two book series but I cannot wait to see what Helen wrote next!

If you enjoy thinly veiled comparison to real life with a bit of YA then you will love this! I stand my by original comparison this book is a more family friendly version of The Boys.