What do you think?
Rate this book
Super
A world mourning a fallen superhero.
A president targeted for assassination.
A conspiracy that runs deeper than anyone expects.
Leo Craft is the best at what he does; he assassinates superheroes, but only the ones who deserve it. Life is good, simple, until an ultra-secretive government agency hires Leo to execute two impossible tasks: eliminate the world’s foremost superhero, Patriotman, and hunt down a fellow assassin whose target is the President of the United States.
When everyone wears a mask, trust is hard to come by – and even the elusive truth can be caught in a web of lies.
A president targeted for assassination.
A conspiracy that runs deeper than anyone expects.
Leo Craft is the best at what he does; he assassinates superheroes, but only the ones who deserve it. Life is good, simple, until an ultra-secretive government agency hires Leo to execute two impossible tasks: eliminate the world’s foremost superhero, Patriotman, and hunt down a fellow assassin whose target is the President of the United States.
When everyone wears a mask, trust is hard to come by – and even the elusive truth can be caught in a web of lies.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2014
146 people are currently reading
716 people want to read
About the author
Ernie Lindsey
52 books184 followersErnie Lindsey grew up in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia, working on the family farm and reading, and has spent his life telling stories to anyone that will listen. He currently works as a freelance writer and is the author of five Mystery & Suspense novels and numerous short stories. When he's not writing, you can find him tackling the gigantic To Be Read list on his Kindle or the never-ending stack of books in his office.
Ernie and his family live in Oregon, along with a multi-fingered Hemingway cat named Luna.
Head over to Ernie's site where you can pick up some free Kindle books. Join him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ErnieLindseyFiction.
Ernie and his family live in Oregon, along with a multi-fingered Hemingway cat named Luna.
Head over to Ernie's site where you can pick up some free Kindle books. Join him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ErnieLindseyFiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 20, 2015
Very satisfying superhero noir (yes, you read that right!) complete with femme fatales, spies, crooked bad guys, and double-crosses galore. Sure hope Mr. Lindsey is planning on sequels!
dnf
June 12, 2015Eh, couldn't get into it anymore
November 20, 2021
4.5/5
There's a lot of superhero novels out there but only rarely as they any good. I say this as someone who writes superhero novels that are clearly the greatest thing ever written. Still, I absolutely love prose superhero fiction and I was recommended this novel by my good friend Steve Caldwell (The Bookwyrm Reads). He said that I would absolutely love this novel and, you know what, he was right. I guess I owe him a coke.
The premise is Leo Craft kills superheroes. Generally, the world he inhabits exists about halfway between The Boys and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The majority of superheroes are decent law-abiding people but a significant chunk are scumbags who realize they can make more money as well as gain virtual immunity from the law by pretending to be "heroes." Leo Craft is assigned to kill these individuals by the government and just took out Patriotman on their behalf.
The only problem is that Patriotman was the world's most beloved superhero, halfway between Superman and Captain America, with the reasoning behind his assassination questionable at best. Still Leo didn't hesitate to kill him and now must deal with the global fallout that has ensued: or so it seems. Super functions like a Tarantino movie where the story is presented in anachronic fashion so that events are not entirely clear until the very end. This is also a novel that has a big twist and while I can't spoil it, utterly changes the entirety of the book roughly midway through.
The general tone of the novel is cynical and gritty but it has just enough goofy superhero weirdness to make the story work well. Leo Craft believes some superheroes are good but he's also extremely judgemental and hypocritical. At one point, he condemns a superhero for being a habitual homewrecker and alcoholic but is generally blind to the fact he performs extrajudicial executions on behalf of people who probably don't have the authority to order them. One of the funniest subplots is his horror at a superheroine, his ex-wife, who turns out to smuggle oil to foreign countries for a big payday. A bit like the Punisher being appalled at insider trading.
Nevertheless, Leo is a deeply fun antihero and we understand the author is aware of his flaws. We also continue to find further levels to our assassin as so much about him is proven to be carefully constructed artifice. Some readers may believe certain revelations qualify as cheating from a first person narrative but I think that actually is capable of being pulled off this time around. Leo is so self-possessed and trained as a spy that I really do believe he could avoid thinking about some details until they happen.
This is basically a spy thriller combined with a superhero novel. A bit like Captain America: The Winter Soldier but with a much more cynical attitude toward famous crime fighters. The government is covertly working against superhumans and the superhumans are working to subvert the government to protect themselves. There's multiple factions working together and at cross purposes with all of them claiming to be fighting for the betterment of the country. However, there's a bunch of self-serving corruption behind the so-called patriots as well. The moral ambiguity is excellent and no one is just standing around and letting the other side walk over them.
In conclusion, Super is a fun story for those who want to enjoy a somewhat deeper look into politics as well as the darker side of capes. I think the big twist could have been handled better and the ending of the book is a bit abrupt but I feel like it still is a good story combining genres. Its not dark to the point of misanthropy but just enough to have a little edge.
There's a lot of superhero novels out there but only rarely as they any good. I say this as someone who writes superhero novels that are clearly the greatest thing ever written. Still, I absolutely love prose superhero fiction and I was recommended this novel by my good friend Steve Caldwell (The Bookwyrm Reads). He said that I would absolutely love this novel and, you know what, he was right. I guess I owe him a coke.
The premise is Leo Craft kills superheroes. Generally, the world he inhabits exists about halfway between The Boys and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The majority of superheroes are decent law-abiding people but a significant chunk are scumbags who realize they can make more money as well as gain virtual immunity from the law by pretending to be "heroes." Leo Craft is assigned to kill these individuals by the government and just took out Patriotman on their behalf.
The only problem is that Patriotman was the world's most beloved superhero, halfway between Superman and Captain America, with the reasoning behind his assassination questionable at best. Still Leo didn't hesitate to kill him and now must deal with the global fallout that has ensued: or so it seems. Super functions like a Tarantino movie where the story is presented in anachronic fashion so that events are not entirely clear until the very end. This is also a novel that has a big twist and while I can't spoil it, utterly changes the entirety of the book roughly midway through.
The general tone of the novel is cynical and gritty but it has just enough goofy superhero weirdness to make the story work well. Leo Craft believes some superheroes are good but he's also extremely judgemental and hypocritical. At one point, he condemns a superhero for being a habitual homewrecker and alcoholic but is generally blind to the fact he performs extrajudicial executions on behalf of people who probably don't have the authority to order them. One of the funniest subplots is his horror at a superheroine, his ex-wife, who turns out to smuggle oil to foreign countries for a big payday. A bit like the Punisher being appalled at insider trading.
Nevertheless, Leo is a deeply fun antihero and we understand the author is aware of his flaws. We also continue to find further levels to our assassin as so much about him is proven to be carefully constructed artifice. Some readers may believe certain revelations qualify as cheating from a first person narrative but I think that actually is capable of being pulled off this time around. Leo is so self-possessed and trained as a spy that I really do believe he could avoid thinking about some details until they happen.
This is basically a spy thriller combined with a superhero novel. A bit like Captain America: The Winter Soldier but with a much more cynical attitude toward famous crime fighters. The government is covertly working against superhumans and the superhumans are working to subvert the government to protect themselves. There's multiple factions working together and at cross purposes with all of them claiming to be fighting for the betterment of the country. However, there's a bunch of self-serving corruption behind the so-called patriots as well. The moral ambiguity is excellent and no one is just standing around and letting the other side walk over them.
In conclusion, Super is a fun story for those who want to enjoy a somewhat deeper look into politics as well as the darker side of capes. I think the big twist could have been handled better and the ending of the book is a bit abrupt but I feel like it still is a good story combining genres. Its not dark to the point of misanthropy but just enough to have a little edge.
August 11, 2014
Overall, I'd say I enjoyed this book. It was fun.
The Good
- The main character was fun to read. The voice was very human and more than a few times, put a smile on my face.
- The story was, again, fun.
The Bad
- The promise of a superhero novel didn't really pan out for me. There was really no superheroes addressed or even brought to the forefront. No one felt like a superhero.
- Most of the book is chatter with little action.
- I really had a difficult time reconciling the actions of the main character with someone that's a super assassin. Overtly trusting some people and acting in an overall clumsy manner, the main characters seemed like anything but a professional killer. The author would've been better served if he didn't make the character an incredibly effective and professional assassin.
The writer did a good job overall and I believe anyone reading this novel will have lots of fun. But, if you're looking to read a superhero book, this isn't it. This novel is more murder mystery / political drama than a book about superheroes.
The Good
- The main character was fun to read. The voice was very human and more than a few times, put a smile on my face.
- The story was, again, fun.
The Bad
- The promise of a superhero novel didn't really pan out for me. There was really no superheroes addressed or even brought to the forefront. No one felt like a superhero.
- Most of the book is chatter with little action.
- I really had a difficult time reconciling the actions of the main character with someone that's a super assassin. Overtly trusting some people and acting in an overall clumsy manner, the main characters seemed like anything but a professional killer. The author would've been better served if he didn't make the character an incredibly effective and professional assassin.
The writer did a good job overall and I believe anyone reading this novel will have lots of fun. But, if you're looking to read a superhero book, this isn't it. This novel is more murder mystery / political drama than a book about superheroes.
May 28, 2014
A tale of a man, Leo Craft, who is a hired killer. His targets: superheroes.
He gets caught up in a government conspiracy to kill one of the most beloved of superheroes: Patriotman. Also, he's looking for a turncoat in the ranks of his assassin group.
An interesting and fresh concept in superhero prose.
He gets caught up in a government conspiracy to kill one of the most beloved of superheroes: Patriotman. Also, he's looking for a turncoat in the ranks of his assassin group.
An interesting and fresh concept in superhero prose.
July 14, 2016
My original Super audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Leo Craft assassinates superheroes in a world of good and bad supermen. He is hired by the government to get rid of the bad ones, or the good one when they go bad. Leo is unapologetic about his job. He is good at it and it needs to get done. You can’t have men and women with super powers going around perpetrating super crimes, after all.
Then Leo is hired by a secret government agency to assassinate the most beloved and honorable superhero in the world - Patriot Man - and his morals kick in. Why and who would want to do such a terrible thing, the world needs Patriot Man and the good he does. The deeper he digs into the assassination plot, the more people get killed and the more confused he gets. The corruption seems to go all the way to the top – the president of the United States - and even he is not safe.
Written for lovers of comic books, superheroes and super villains, there are various nods to Superman, Batman, the Hulk and others. It is a chaotic world of supers and those who want to eliminate them. It would be a fun story, but its attempts at self-deprecating humor often fall flat. The plot is overly complex and confusing, constantly introducing names the listener can’t remember or why they matter to the story. We don't lean much about Patriot Man’s super powers are or what he has done that is so great for society.
Written in the first person, we are in Leo’s head throughout, where he constantly explains about who this person is or how he feels about that person. It is claustrophobic, forcing the action when there is some and slowing the story when there isn’t. Major plot twists come as explanation rather than unfolding events, killing almost all hope of suspense. The listener wants to empathize with Leo, but never seems to get the chance.
The story is performed by Paul Woodson who does a very good job. His voice has the sarcasm and energy the story should have. His voice characterizations are good and easy to follow. He is a good pick for the genre.
If you are a lover of superheroes and comic books you might give Super a try. The action and cartoonish characters might be just what you’re looking for while you trudge through the confusing plot. Other listeners should look elsewhere; there just isn’t enough to recommend this book.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
Leo Craft assassinates superheroes in a world of good and bad supermen. He is hired by the government to get rid of the bad ones, or the good one when they go bad. Leo is unapologetic about his job. He is good at it and it needs to get done. You can’t have men and women with super powers going around perpetrating super crimes, after all.
Then Leo is hired by a secret government agency to assassinate the most beloved and honorable superhero in the world - Patriot Man - and his morals kick in. Why and who would want to do such a terrible thing, the world needs Patriot Man and the good he does. The deeper he digs into the assassination plot, the more people get killed and the more confused he gets. The corruption seems to go all the way to the top – the president of the United States - and even he is not safe.
Written for lovers of comic books, superheroes and super villains, there are various nods to Superman, Batman, the Hulk and others. It is a chaotic world of supers and those who want to eliminate them. It would be a fun story, but its attempts at self-deprecating humor often fall flat. The plot is overly complex and confusing, constantly introducing names the listener can’t remember or why they matter to the story. We don't lean much about Patriot Man’s super powers are or what he has done that is so great for society.
Written in the first person, we are in Leo’s head throughout, where he constantly explains about who this person is or how he feels about that person. It is claustrophobic, forcing the action when there is some and slowing the story when there isn’t. Major plot twists come as explanation rather than unfolding events, killing almost all hope of suspense. The listener wants to empathize with Leo, but never seems to get the chance.
The story is performed by Paul Woodson who does a very good job. His voice has the sarcasm and energy the story should have. His voice characterizations are good and easy to follow. He is a good pick for the genre.
If you are a lover of superheroes and comic books you might give Super a try. The action and cartoonish characters might be just what you’re looking for while you trudge through the confusing plot. Other listeners should look elsewhere; there just isn’t enough to recommend this book.
Audiobook was provided for review by the narrator.
September 6, 2016
First let me thank the author for sending an early copy my way.
Now, one of the things you should probably know is that you most likely won't be glued to it right from the first pages. I know I wasn't. But truth is that the more I read, the more vicious my reading experience became - I mean that in the nicest way possible, don't get me wrong! I just mean that the more I uncovered some of the secrets (some reeeeeally big secrets!), the more and faster I wanted to read and get to the ending.
I'm telling you, this book sucks you in when you least expect it! And it's so witty... it's definitely my kind of book.
Long story short, this book is about this guy, Leo, who kills superheroes for a living - the book is in his POV, told in first-person. Now, his story is obviously not as simple as that, but I'm sure you won't expect it to be as complicated as it actually is. If you want to read this book, trust no one. Not even the main character, because everyone lies. All the time. Expect a lot of backstabbing too. Until you reach the very end, don't expect to know the whole truth, like, ever.
I really liked the way the book kept me on my toes the whole way to the end. It's been a while since I read a book with this kind of humor and I was so amused by it, you have no idea. It was awesome. One of the best POVs I've ever read, because the dude is great, let's be honest. I also really felt for the guy when he hit his low. Tears in my eyes, man. Tears in my eyes.
Now this little bit may or may not be considered a spoiler, so read at your own risk, but I'm still not quite sold on the idea that Supers get to fake their death and reborn some time later under another alias over and over again and no one will even blink. Sure, some might suspect a connection between the death of a Super and the appearance of a new one, but overall they don't and it makes me wonder why the people in this world are so gullible. You'd think they'd expect the Supers to pull something like that, for admittedly good reasons.
All in all, it was an awesome book. I loved it and I'm really thankful for getting the chance to read it before it's out there!
Now, one of the things you should probably know is that you most likely won't be glued to it right from the first pages. I know I wasn't. But truth is that the more I read, the more vicious my reading experience became - I mean that in the nicest way possible, don't get me wrong! I just mean that the more I uncovered some of the secrets (some reeeeeally big secrets!), the more and faster I wanted to read and get to the ending.
I'm telling you, this book sucks you in when you least expect it! And it's so witty... it's definitely my kind of book.
Long story short, this book is about this guy, Leo, who kills superheroes for a living - the book is in his POV, told in first-person. Now, his story is obviously not as simple as that, but I'm sure you won't expect it to be as complicated as it actually is. If you want to read this book, trust no one. Not even the main character, because everyone lies. All the time. Expect a lot of backstabbing too. Until you reach the very end, don't expect to know the whole truth, like, ever.
I really liked the way the book kept me on my toes the whole way to the end. It's been a while since I read a book with this kind of humor and I was so amused by it, you have no idea. It was awesome. One of the best POVs I've ever read, because the dude is great, let's be honest. I also really felt for the guy when he hit his low. Tears in my eyes, man. Tears in my eyes.
Now this little bit may or may not be considered a spoiler, so read at your own risk, but I'm still not quite sold on the idea that Supers get to fake their death and reborn some time later under another alias over and over again and no one will even blink. Sure, some might suspect a connection between the death of a Super and the appearance of a new one, but overall they don't and it makes me wonder why the people in this world are so gullible. You'd think they'd expect the Supers to pull something like that, for admittedly good reasons.
All in all, it was an awesome book. I loved it and I'm really thankful for getting the chance to read it before it's out there!
August 1, 2014
This book had a really interesting premise. I love superheroes, and I love mysteries. This book had elements of both, but was light and funny too. It centers around Leo Craft, a Government-hired assassin who takes down superheroes have have gone rogue or turned evil. From there, it gets a little too confusing to try to explain.
This book had a lot of action and I thought the back-and-forth chapters worked really well, with one chapter set a few weeks prior and the next set in present day. While I liked all of the plot twists and turns, the sheer number of double-crosses and "Aha!" moments got a bit confusing to keep track of. I also wish we would've been given some more backstory on how Patriotman was made/born. Either way, I really enjoyed the book, and I think this book could easily lead to an interesting series if the author wanted to go that route. I have no idea if that thought has even crossed the author's mind, but I would definitely read another book about Leo, and I would love to get more background and details about some of the superheroes we met in this book. There's certainly plenty of material and interesting ideas in this book that could be developed further throughout future books.
This book had a lot of action and I thought the back-and-forth chapters worked really well, with one chapter set a few weeks prior and the next set in present day. While I liked all of the plot twists and turns, the sheer number of double-crosses and "Aha!" moments got a bit confusing to keep track of. I also wish we would've been given some more backstory on how Patriotman was made/born. Either way, I really enjoyed the book, and I think this book could easily lead to an interesting series if the author wanted to go that route. I have no idea if that thought has even crossed the author's mind, but I would definitely read another book about Leo, and I would love to get more background and details about some of the superheroes we met in this book. There's certainly plenty of material and interesting ideas in this book that could be developed further throughout future books.
July 2, 2014
Not a typical super hero novel (if there is such a thing.)
Basically a suspense novel placed in a world where there are natural and unnatural super heroes (and of course villains.)
This is what I expected/hoped that The Girl Who Would Be King would be like. I of course did not enjoy that one.
Basically a suspense novel placed in a world where there are natural and unnatural super heroes (and of course villains.)
This is what I expected/hoped that The Girl Who Would Be King would be like. I of course did not enjoy that one.
August 26, 2014
originally posted at: http://thebookplank.blogspot.com/2014...
If there is one theme in fantasy that is well represented in modern fiction be it TV or comics or books is the superhero theme. If you analyze most of these stories, it often comes down to one thing: a superhero or team therefore that set out to save planet Earth or the universe itself from destruction. I have read one great spin off from the superhero theme the Wild Card universe of George R.R. Martin, the other spin off is Super, this book. Using superheroes leaves a lot for the author own interpretation and Super caught my attention by the one sentence: "Leo Craft is the best at what he does; he assassinates superheroes, but only the ones who deserve it." A protagonist who assasinates superheroes. How. Cool. Is. That!
The first thing that I do have to mention is that Super isn't a book focused on flashy superhero power display. Instead Ernie Lindsey weaves a powerful story about a deadly political game that's being played by some powers from higher up.
The story of Super picks up with the direct focus on our superhero assassin Leo Craft. Not with seeing him in any way of action but more recounting some past memories of how he got where he is right now. From these past moments you switch back to a present day storyline where you see Leo attending a special meeting a superhero assassin's meeting, where encounters are being discussed and boasted on how things went down. You can directly see that Leo isn't really feeling comfortable with his "colleagues" other superheroes take credit for his work... Leo sits their because he has to. Soon Leo explains that he has two tasks, first is to eliminate the world's most renown superhero: Patriotman and second to identify which of he fellow superheroes plans to assassinate the President of the United States. The first part of the story is basically the build up towards these two important plot lines, after Leo gets his two tasks and the story stays most in the present day, the book picks up a more rapid pace. In his mission, Leo visits some old acquaintances that help him along the way, like his ex-wife a fellow superhero. On thing that becomes apparent as you follow Leo's story is the fact that he has a history and he must be hiding some information. But who doesn't have secret's right? It's only after the first half of the book that one BIG thing, yes i am telling something major is revealed that will leave you a bit slack jawed. I tell you, it's a pretty cool plot twist. I have to remain very cryptic about the storyline, it will spoil to much. As I already said the ending of Super is a great rapid fire action, some superpowers become apparent but it more focused on a the characters and their motivation than being super strong or fast or blasting flames and saving the day.
In Super Ernie Lindsey has gone where no author has ventured before in terms of using superheroes in this way, I do have to say I that I was expecting superhero showdown type of story with an assassin of said persons, though Super was different I still very much enjoyed the story. Actually come to think of it, it really is one-of-a-kind, the focus is on the characters and the human side of it. Normally you see a strong division of superheroes and their nemesis, but what if you take just normal humans? What is good and what is evil? These elements are also explored in Super and readily offer a much more deeper and provocative storyline than just simple superhero bashing. Great stuff.
I am always a bit hesitant when it comes down to the writing style and narration that is used in self-published book (sorry but I read a few horrid ones), but I couldn't find any fault in Super, Ernie Lindsey is a USA today bestselling author and this has to be owed to something, doesn't it? The writing style is clear and to the point, Ernie Lindsey known when to hold on to a moment to make it last and elaborate on it or when to introduce some rapid fire action scenes to thrown his story in an upped pacing, and afterwards letting it slow down an recount several events. It's not something that you see often but it is definitely high quality. Added to this comes the narration of the book. Here Ernie Lindsey has chosen to use the first person perspective of Leo Craft, our superhero assassin. Since Super, revolves around his personal dealings opting for this narration instead of a third person/ birds eye view perspective makes several elements such as emotion only come out that much better.
As for the characters of Super, most of the focus is on Leo himself and how he goes about planning and executing his next two missions. Even though the setting of the book is pretty dark at times, Ernie Lindsey introduces a lot of humor in Leo's character to brighten up the day a couple of times. Mainly this is due to scenes involving his ex-wife where he casually reflects upon several parts that caused their relation to hit a few bumps. In the beginning I did find it hard to relate to Leo since you are presented with direct picture of his character, but after the introduction and with Leo himself getting more loose you clearly see the human aspect that Ernie Lindsey wanted to introduce and this combined with the "struggles" that Leo has to go through makes him much more relatable. Especially given the fact with the big plot twist, yes still not saying what it is. Besides Leo as the main protagonist there are several secondary characters that you read about, and though their personalities and characteristics are being told from Leo's perspective you still get to learn much about them, nestling them nicely into the story of Super.
Super is a terrific read, Ernie Lindsey steers away from the common rules of superhero fiction and goes his own way in a big and bold way and trust me it pays off to the fullest. Having an special agent that hunts down superheroes that don't fit in the "perfect picture" any longer, that's just awesome in my opinion. I was in for a big surprise, storywise, as Ernie Lindsey doesn't write one big flashy showndown of superheroes but focuses more on provocative aspects such as human morals and standards and appealing to some higher motives, this isn't something that I have encountered before. Super has enough plot twists to keep you guessing right until the end and don't think it will be a simple cross or double crosses but the betrayals run very deep! The only problem that Super has is that it is over to soon. Ernie Lindsey ends his story with an open ending and in the interview I did with him he has already mentioned that a sequel is in the making. With Super, Ernie Lindsey has definitely brought a fresh and exciting new take ob the superhero theme.
If there is one theme in fantasy that is well represented in modern fiction be it TV or comics or books is the superhero theme. If you analyze most of these stories, it often comes down to one thing: a superhero or team therefore that set out to save planet Earth or the universe itself from destruction. I have read one great spin off from the superhero theme the Wild Card universe of George R.R. Martin, the other spin off is Super, this book. Using superheroes leaves a lot for the author own interpretation and Super caught my attention by the one sentence: "Leo Craft is the best at what he does; he assassinates superheroes, but only the ones who deserve it." A protagonist who assasinates superheroes. How. Cool. Is. That!
The first thing that I do have to mention is that Super isn't a book focused on flashy superhero power display. Instead Ernie Lindsey weaves a powerful story about a deadly political game that's being played by some powers from higher up.
The story of Super picks up with the direct focus on our superhero assassin Leo Craft. Not with seeing him in any way of action but more recounting some past memories of how he got where he is right now. From these past moments you switch back to a present day storyline where you see Leo attending a special meeting a superhero assassin's meeting, where encounters are being discussed and boasted on how things went down. You can directly see that Leo isn't really feeling comfortable with his "colleagues" other superheroes take credit for his work... Leo sits their because he has to. Soon Leo explains that he has two tasks, first is to eliminate the world's most renown superhero: Patriotman and second to identify which of he fellow superheroes plans to assassinate the President of the United States. The first part of the story is basically the build up towards these two important plot lines, after Leo gets his two tasks and the story stays most in the present day, the book picks up a more rapid pace. In his mission, Leo visits some old acquaintances that help him along the way, like his ex-wife a fellow superhero. On thing that becomes apparent as you follow Leo's story is the fact that he has a history and he must be hiding some information. But who doesn't have secret's right? It's only after the first half of the book that one BIG thing, yes i am telling something major is revealed that will leave you a bit slack jawed. I tell you, it's a pretty cool plot twist. I have to remain very cryptic about the storyline, it will spoil to much. As I already said the ending of Super is a great rapid fire action, some superpowers become apparent but it more focused on a the characters and their motivation than being super strong or fast or blasting flames and saving the day.
In Super Ernie Lindsey has gone where no author has ventured before in terms of using superheroes in this way, I do have to say I that I was expecting superhero showdown type of story with an assassin of said persons, though Super was different I still very much enjoyed the story. Actually come to think of it, it really is one-of-a-kind, the focus is on the characters and the human side of it. Normally you see a strong division of superheroes and their nemesis, but what if you take just normal humans? What is good and what is evil? These elements are also explored in Super and readily offer a much more deeper and provocative storyline than just simple superhero bashing. Great stuff.
I am always a bit hesitant when it comes down to the writing style and narration that is used in self-published book (sorry but I read a few horrid ones), but I couldn't find any fault in Super, Ernie Lindsey is a USA today bestselling author and this has to be owed to something, doesn't it? The writing style is clear and to the point, Ernie Lindsey known when to hold on to a moment to make it last and elaborate on it or when to introduce some rapid fire action scenes to thrown his story in an upped pacing, and afterwards letting it slow down an recount several events. It's not something that you see often but it is definitely high quality. Added to this comes the narration of the book. Here Ernie Lindsey has chosen to use the first person perspective of Leo Craft, our superhero assassin. Since Super, revolves around his personal dealings opting for this narration instead of a third person/ birds eye view perspective makes several elements such as emotion only come out that much better.
As for the characters of Super, most of the focus is on Leo himself and how he goes about planning and executing his next two missions. Even though the setting of the book is pretty dark at times, Ernie Lindsey introduces a lot of humor in Leo's character to brighten up the day a couple of times. Mainly this is due to scenes involving his ex-wife where he casually reflects upon several parts that caused their relation to hit a few bumps. In the beginning I did find it hard to relate to Leo since you are presented with direct picture of his character, but after the introduction and with Leo himself getting more loose you clearly see the human aspect that Ernie Lindsey wanted to introduce and this combined with the "struggles" that Leo has to go through makes him much more relatable. Especially given the fact with the big plot twist, yes still not saying what it is. Besides Leo as the main protagonist there are several secondary characters that you read about, and though their personalities and characteristics are being told from Leo's perspective you still get to learn much about them, nestling them nicely into the story of Super.
Super is a terrific read, Ernie Lindsey steers away from the common rules of superhero fiction and goes his own way in a big and bold way and trust me it pays off to the fullest. Having an special agent that hunts down superheroes that don't fit in the "perfect picture" any longer, that's just awesome in my opinion. I was in for a big surprise, storywise, as Ernie Lindsey doesn't write one big flashy showndown of superheroes but focuses more on provocative aspects such as human morals and standards and appealing to some higher motives, this isn't something that I have encountered before. Super has enough plot twists to keep you guessing right until the end and don't think it will be a simple cross or double crosses but the betrayals run very deep! The only problem that Super has is that it is over to soon. Ernie Lindsey ends his story with an open ending and in the interview I did with him he has already mentioned that a sequel is in the making. With Super, Ernie Lindsey has definitely brought a fresh and exciting new take ob the superhero theme.
May 7, 2018
3 stars and one of those is dim.
OK, here goes. I didn't particularly hate it but I didn't particularly get a thrill out of it either. Truth be told, if you ask me in a year, I won't remember a thing about the story. Still, the book was offered via special deal at less than a dollar (thanks Bookbub!). For that kind of money, certainly a bargain and an acceptable way to spend my free time for a small part of this afternoon and still have time to go for a walk later with plenty of sunshine left in the sky.
There were lots of enjoyable bits and sure, you'll never see the ending coming (how could we?), but the book is far too short, like novellette short. I don't know who lists the page numbers here, but by my ebook count, it was 140 pages with large print, not 300 or whatever is listed. Lindsey could have easily been stretched the tale to double this length - particularly in the interest of developing the characters and the global reach of the story - and not hurt the flow or the outcome. As it is, the quick and dirty style comes across as a bit inconsistent and wanting. And it won't be making my 'top hero book' list for sure (rest easy Brandon Sanderson!).
My advice would be to kill any and all references to the 'real' world (no mention of Superman, Fantastic Four, etc.) and put some meat on the bone. The whole thing comes across as one
of those silly, only half-believable, über-CGI movie scenarios (think: 'Battleship'). Sure it's a fairly good 'whodunnit' but for my tastes, just too much left on the cutting room floor. Next time think 'series' even if the intent is only for one story and not this 'one and done' quickie stuff.
OK, here goes. I didn't particularly hate it but I didn't particularly get a thrill out of it either. Truth be told, if you ask me in a year, I won't remember a thing about the story. Still, the book was offered via special deal at less than a dollar (thanks Bookbub!). For that kind of money, certainly a bargain and an acceptable way to spend my free time for a small part of this afternoon and still have time to go for a walk later with plenty of sunshine left in the sky.
There were lots of enjoyable bits and sure, you'll never see the ending coming (how could we?), but the book is far too short, like novellette short. I don't know who lists the page numbers here, but by my ebook count, it was 140 pages with large print, not 300 or whatever is listed. Lindsey could have easily been stretched the tale to double this length - particularly in the interest of developing the characters and the global reach of the story - and not hurt the flow or the outcome. As it is, the quick and dirty style comes across as a bit inconsistent and wanting. And it won't be making my 'top hero book' list for sure (rest easy Brandon Sanderson!).
My advice would be to kill any and all references to the 'real' world (no mention of Superman, Fantastic Four, etc.) and put some meat on the bone. The whole thing comes across as one
of those silly, only half-believable, über-CGI movie scenarios (think: 'Battleship'). Sure it's a fairly good 'whodunnit' but for my tastes, just too much left on the cutting room floor. Next time think 'series' even if the intent is only for one story and not this 'one and done' quickie stuff.
May 13, 2018
Anyone who knows me, knows that I love comics and Superheroes. I also love reading stories about them, or playing games about them. (I had two level 50 heroes in City of Heroes, thanks to some great friends I made there!)
Like any good mystery, a plot twist is greatest when you are completely blindsided by it. So the idea that this book was about Super Heroes and it had a great twist to it, I couldn’t resist it!
The premise is different, about someone who is an assassin of Supers. A very strange idea to make a story about, but it got me to read it.
Without going too deep into the plot, the story, and the twists, I have to only give this 3 stars. It’s not that I didn’t like the idea behind it, or appreciate the twists, but it got way too confusing jumping back and forth from the past to the present. It got so bad at one point, I had to stop, and go back to double check when something had happened, because it jumped too much in one chapter.
Overall, I like the book. It is a good quick read, despite the confusing time jumps. The twist(s) did blindside me, but with all of the time jumping, it kinda took the shock away from it.
I would recommend it to anyone who likes different kinds of stories, ones that aren’t the typical ‘good guy saves the world because he is a superhero’. This breaks that typical mold, and makes you think more than you would expect to.
Like any good mystery, a plot twist is greatest when you are completely blindsided by it. So the idea that this book was about Super Heroes and it had a great twist to it, I couldn’t resist it!
The premise is different, about someone who is an assassin of Supers. A very strange idea to make a story about, but it got me to read it.
Without going too deep into the plot, the story, and the twists, I have to only give this 3 stars. It’s not that I didn’t like the idea behind it, or appreciate the twists, but it got way too confusing jumping back and forth from the past to the present. It got so bad at one point, I had to stop, and go back to double check when something had happened, because it jumped too much in one chapter.
Overall, I like the book. It is a good quick read, despite the confusing time jumps. The twist(s) did blindside me, but with all of the time jumping, it kinda took the shock away from it.
I would recommend it to anyone who likes different kinds of stories, ones that aren’t the typical ‘good guy saves the world because he is a superhero’. This breaks that typical mold, and makes you think more than you would expect to.
May 13, 2018
I found it to be a pretty engaging and interesting story which I enjoyed. Not the typical "superhero" story.
I could have done without the unnecessary time jumping of one chapter present day and the next a week ago, this did not lend anything to the story other than to confuse the reader. It would have been a much more enjoyable read if it had just been done in chronological order or at most set up the story in the first chapter then start at the beginning and tell it in the correct order. I get pretty immersed in a story when I read it, but the jumping back and forth in this one even got me confused at one point, I was really glad when it quit doing it toward the end. I'd have given it at least one more star if it hadn't done that.
I could have done without the unnecessary time jumping of one chapter present day and the next a week ago, this did not lend anything to the story other than to confuse the reader. It would have been a much more enjoyable read if it had just been done in chronological order or at most set up the story in the first chapter then start at the beginning and tell it in the correct order. I get pretty immersed in a story when I read it, but the jumping back and forth in this one even got me confused at one point, I was really glad when it quit doing it toward the end. I'd have given it at least one more star if it hadn't done that.
August 12, 2020
The superhero book I never knew I wanted! This was incredible. From beginning to end I was hooked. I found the idea of super hero assassins so compelling. Only to be pulled along this rollercoaster of crazy ups, downs, twists, and turns!
The setting in being in my hometown helped to ground me in the story, but I don't want to take away from the picture Ernie Lindsey painted with his words. Despite being a superhero story, everything about this world and story felt so real. it was so immersive. I loved the pacing and the humor. One of my favorite main characters for a while, hands down.
I have already picked up another of Ernie Lindsey's books.
The setting in being in my hometown helped to ground me in the story, but I don't want to take away from the picture Ernie Lindsey painted with his words. Despite being a superhero story, everything about this world and story felt so real. it was so immersive. I loved the pacing and the humor. One of my favorite main characters for a while, hands down.
I have already picked up another of Ernie Lindsey's books.
July 4, 2017
A superhero novel to love!
There's not enough good novelized fiction about super heroes! This was a fun, fresh, original take!
The ending was a little quick and the story had a few too many artificial twists and self-conflicting turns, but it was all week the fun story and great style.
The meta humor, and self-aware tone is GREAT and this was a fun read. I'm immediately looking for more of the authors stories!
There's not enough good novelized fiction about super heroes! This was a fun, fresh, original take!
The ending was a little quick and the story had a few too many artificial twists and self-conflicting turns, but it was all week the fun story and great style.
The meta humor, and self-aware tone is GREAT and this was a fun read. I'm immediately looking for more of the authors stories!
January 18, 2019
Very enjoyable
This is the first book I've read by this author and I loved it!
I enjoyed the twists and turns in the story, the great dialogue of Leo the main character, the cleverly written supporting characters, laugh out loud moments due to Leos rants and even the hokey superhero names!!
This book was more than I had expected, a well deserved 4 stars, and I'll definitely be looking to read more from this author in the future!!
This is the first book I've read by this author and I loved it!
I enjoyed the twists and turns in the story, the great dialogue of Leo the main character, the cleverly written supporting characters, laugh out loud moments due to Leos rants and even the hokey superhero names!!
This book was more than I had expected, a well deserved 4 stars, and I'll definitely be looking to read more from this author in the future!!
July 18, 2020
Not sure what to say about this book. My advice to potential readers would be to trust your gut when reading the synopsis. The only aspect of the book you might not expect from that is the fact that there is some broad humor throughout, due to the somewhat neurotic personality of the main character.
I enjoyed it. If you read the summary and say, "That sounds like fun.", then I expect you'll enjoy it as well.
I enjoyed it. If you read the summary and say, "That sounds like fun.", then I expect you'll enjoy it as well.
October 19, 2020
Good story 💜
I loved the idea behind this storyline but didn’t care for the back and forth between timelines. For me it got a little confusing. That said, I absolutely loved all the super hero characters and references. So much fun. The narration was good. I love Paul Woodson’s voice, although at times it felt like he ran out of breath. Paul really captured the essence of each character and the excitement of the super hero world.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
I loved the idea behind this storyline but didn’t care for the back and forth between timelines. For me it got a little confusing. That said, I absolutely loved all the super hero characters and references. So much fun. The narration was good. I love Paul Woodson’s voice, although at times it felt like he ran out of breath. Paul really captured the essence of each character and the excitement of the super hero world.
Sisters Spotlight 💜
June 29, 2018
I have to say that I like books about superheroes.. Not comics, but books. Something I can sink my teeth into. This was no exception. I enjoyed the plot and the book had good pace. The only thing that brought me out of the world that the book allowed me to create in my own mind were the passing references to comic book heroes like Superman etc.
November 19, 2018
A guy who is supposed to be one of the best in his field (by his estimation) is duped by a shadowy organization he’s never heard of. He doesn’t check them out properly he just goes ahead and kills the most respected super hero.
He and the other super hero assassins attend AA-style, mentally disturbed meetings and then go ten-pin bowling.
No. I don’t buy it. I could not continue with the book.
He and the other super hero assassins attend AA-style, mentally disturbed meetings and then go ten-pin bowling.
No. I don’t buy it. I could not continue with the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2021
I liked it but didn't love it. The flow of the book is more like a Dick Tracy novel than a superhero novel. Leo is an assassin of Superheroes and must figure out who is out to kill the President. If you removed the "Super powers" aspect that is exactly what you would get. It was fun, Ernie has a great sense of humor with his writing.
July 25, 2017
Not bad
Pretty decent little book, but it sort of fell apart for me in the end. Characters were developed as much as they can be in such a short book. Likeable main character, too. The problem is it seemed to end in a bit of a mess.
Pretty decent little book, but it sort of fell apart for me in the end. Characters were developed as much as they can be in such a short book. Likeable main character, too. The problem is it seemed to end in a bit of a mess.
May 22, 2018
An interesting idea and there were some surprises I did not see coming. That being said I found myself skimming thru sections that did not seems to be relevant to the story but rather just filled some pages.
July 16, 2018
Fast, run read!
Well written, interesting superhero story. The two time lines storytelling device worked pretty well, also, though it still works better visually in my opinion (though this would be a fun TV series or movie). I enjoyed the read!
Well written, interesting superhero story. The two time lines storytelling device worked pretty well, also, though it still works better visually in my opinion (though this would be a fun TV series or movie). I enjoyed the read!
January 22, 2019
I have read several books by Ernie Lindsey and I thoroughly enjoyed his take on the super hero side of modern crime fighting. He has become one of my favorite authors and I look forward to seeing what comes from him in the future.
June 18, 2019
Engrossing Superhero Action!
A fun read, plenty of twists and turns, and a premise not often discussed in comics, how do you control people with superpowers? Ernie Lindsey has a good answer to that question. Check it out.
A fun read, plenty of twists and turns, and a premise not often discussed in comics, how do you control people with superpowers? Ernie Lindsey has a good answer to that question. Check it out.
April 29, 2020
Not many new ways to do a superhero book but Ernie Lindsey has found one.
Gets off to a good start but a bit of a stuttering ending and no really standout characters.
A decent read but glad it's not a trilogy
Gets off to a good start but a bit of a stuttering ending and no really standout characters.
A decent read but glad it's not a trilogy
August 20, 2017
Page turner with a lots of twists! I liked the fast paced nature of the book and was thoroughly entertained by the chain of events.
May 13, 2018
OK for something light to read
Plot and storyline were far fetched plus a bit weak and messy. Not sure I'd care to read any more of this.
Plot and storyline were far fetched plus a bit weak and messy. Not sure I'd care to read any more of this.
May 24, 2018
A story about superheroes but not really. Interesting and enjoyable read but not what I expected I guess you can say. Action, mystery, suspense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews