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Small Town Superhero #1
Small Town Superhero
Small Town Superhero is about a boy whose life is turned upside down after a horrible accident tears apart his family and forces him to live with his relatives. Kelson struggles with the move to a small farming town where he becomes the target of the town’s gang. When circumstances turn dangerous, Kelson is forced to risk everything to save the town and the girl who changed his life and captured his heart.
Small Town Superhero has a fresh voice and frank point of view that draws you into Kelson’s life and helps you understand the boy who is fighting to overcome challenges made by both his decisions and the circumstances of a town struggling to face its past.
Small Town Superhero has a fresh voice and frank point of view that draws you into Kelson’s life and helps you understand the boy who is fighting to overcome challenges made by both his decisions and the circumstances of a town struggling to face its past.
ebook
First published February 25, 2013
121 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Cheree Alsop
171 books493 followersCheree Alsop is an award-winning, best-selling author and the mother of a beautiful, talented daughter and amazing twin sons who fill every day with joy and laughter. She is married to her best friend, Michael, the light of her life and her soulmate who shares her dreams and inspires her by reading the first drafts of each book. Cheree is a fulltime author and mother, which is much more fun than work! She enjoys reading, riding her motorcycle on warm nights, and playing with her twins while planning her next book. She is also a bass player for their rock band, Alien Landslide.
Cheree and Michael live in Utah where they rock out, enjoy the outdoors, plan great adventures, and never stop dreaming.
Check out Cheree’s other books at www.chereealsop.com
Cheree and Michael live in Utah where they rock out, enjoy the outdoors, plan great adventures, and never stop dreaming.
Check out Cheree’s other books at www.chereealsop.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 22, 2014
When I first saw this book on NetGalley and read the description, I thought "Meh. This looks like it'll kill some time while I recover from my cold." Instead, I picked up this book and read it all the way through in one sitting and immediately purchased the next book and read that in one sitting, too. Now I'm searching the internet to see when book 3 comes out. Needless to say, I loved this book and whole-heartedly give it 5 stars. If you love action and superhero stories, this book is for you. Something that gave me pause when I first looked at the book was all of the reviews saying this book was for people who love motorcycles. Well, I know nothing about motorcycles and I still loved the real, well-developed characters Cheree Alsop introduces in the town of Sparrow. I was most impressed with the depth of realistic emotions and feelings that the characters expressed. I expected Kelson, as a fictional teenage boy defined by the author, to lack emotion and substance and have only a one-track mind, but instead I found a character that I fell in love with and want to keep reading more and more about.
May 15, 2013
This book held my heart through the entire story. Kelson's story was one that took me for an emotional rollercoaster ride. The way he reacts to the situations he finds himself in when he is forced to move with his aunt and uncle in small town Sparrow feels real and believable. His teenage romance with Madelyn, a girl who is also damaged and looking for respite from her heartbreaking past, was tender and made me smile so many times. This is the story I have been waiting for- a broken young man forced into becoming the town's hero to save it from the bullies that threaten to pull it under by their damaging choices. You will cheer for Kelson and grow to love him. Give it a chance. You won't regret it.
July 21, 2014
Small Town Superhero had the feel of a family-friendly action film. It's fast-paced, it's got a bunch of cool fight scenes, motorcycle races, a guy with a definite hero complex and a hint of romance. Alsop's writing puts the reader in the scene well, making reading the book feel like watching a film in some way that I can't easily describe. It's in the way she describes the action, the way she creates the scenery and the way she makes us see the characters. And just like those family action movies, Small Town Superhero is kind of corny. You'll learn all about family values, how not to be a bully and how to do the right thing. It made me smile though.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2013
Book 2 of The Small Town Superhero Series by Cheree Alsop is even more amazing than the first. Having grown up in a small farming community I related very well. The author takes tender personal and family issues and mixes them in with suspenseful gang violence and school bullying in a unique way. I recommend any of Cheree's novels as excellent reads - these are at the top of the list.
August 21, 2014
Book Review- Small Town Superhero by Cheree Alsop
Kelson moved to Sparrow from California after his sister died. He is staying with his aunt and uncle on their farm where he feels completely out of his element. He doesn’t know what to do when given chores and his younger cousins laugh at him. His uncle doesn’t want to let him help most of the time. Kelson constantly feels useless. In fact what Kelson thinks as a failure on his part becomes the best thing that could have happened. He went to work for Jagger at the junkyard. While there, he found a hidden treasure that helps with his plan to stop the Bullets and their bullying ways.
Kelson also becomes intrigued with his neighbor Madilyn and takes on her problems too. He becomes the town hero when he stands up for what is right. He is determined to save the town of Sparrow and the people who live in it.
With this book, you instantly feel for the characters. They all have secrets that they try to hide. It was a journey for Kelso to figure out what was really going on in the small town of Sparrow. He also had to forgive himself and moved passed the tragedies in his own life.
Standing up for other people who are being bullied is an excellent message to send readers. With this story it makes you think that you never know what drives a bully. The author wrote a storyline filled with complex family relationships, heartbreak, despair, fear and hope. It was an intriguing YA story. I give it a 4 out of 5.
Kelson moved to Sparrow from California after his sister died. He is staying with his aunt and uncle on their farm where he feels completely out of his element. He doesn’t know what to do when given chores and his younger cousins laugh at him. His uncle doesn’t want to let him help most of the time. Kelson constantly feels useless. In fact what Kelson thinks as a failure on his part becomes the best thing that could have happened. He went to work for Jagger at the junkyard. While there, he found a hidden treasure that helps with his plan to stop the Bullets and their bullying ways.
Kelson also becomes intrigued with his neighbor Madilyn and takes on her problems too. He becomes the town hero when he stands up for what is right. He is determined to save the town of Sparrow and the people who live in it.
With this book, you instantly feel for the characters. They all have secrets that they try to hide. It was a journey for Kelso to figure out what was really going on in the small town of Sparrow. He also had to forgive himself and moved passed the tragedies in his own life.
Standing up for other people who are being bullied is an excellent message to send readers. With this story it makes you think that you never know what drives a bully. The author wrote a storyline filled with complex family relationships, heartbreak, despair, fear and hope. It was an intriguing YA story. I give it a 4 out of 5.
February 10, 2020
This is an immensely entertaining and yet... it could happen in real life superhero story. I don't want to give anything away so I will keep my review short. I absolutely loved the story and the narration was wonderful and so much fun to listen to. I loved how the author kept it in a real-life setting and he doesn't have any real super powers but is just willing to stand up to the bullies in the small town that everyone is afraid of. There is some mild language in this story but it isn't overdone, there are a couple violent scenes that get a little graphic but overall I felt this was a very clean read. There are some heavier topics in this book that dealing with, death of a family member, abuse, depression and of course the bullies. I think this story gives teachers a great opener to discuss some of those topics. I would let my middle school aged kids read this, so I'd say for content it's 6th grade and up.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
Read
March 9, 2016I enjoyed reading this -- this isn't about 'actual' superheroes, but instead a kid moved into a small town to live with family in the wake of tragedy. He discovers that dancing is forbidden and is forced to lead a rebellion of rock ... no, this isn't actually Footloose, but it has the same general feel. (The main character actually discovers that the town is being bullied by a gang of school kids; thankfully, he's got a cool head and a particular set of skills that help deal with the situation).
I don't know if I'll continue the series, but really, if you liked Footloose, this evokes the same feeling. The author is good at letting the story flow and get out of the way, with just enough lampshading of the most unbelievable spots to keep you from taking it too seriously.
I don't know if I'll continue the series, but really, if you liked Footloose, this evokes the same feeling. The author is good at letting the story flow and get out of the way, with just enough lampshading of the most unbelievable spots to keep you from taking it too seriously.
July 13, 2013
Cheree Alsop has written a great book for youth and adults alike. Kelson - the superhero is battling his own demons plus bullies in this action packed narrative. Small Town Superhero had me from the first sentence through the end. I felt every sorrow, every pain and the delight of rushing through the dark on a motorcycle. Descriptions in Small Town Superhero are so well written the reader is immersed in the town and lives of its inhabitants.
August 19, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Once started I could not put this book down. The characters were well-developed and relatable. The storyline was flawless. The author did a great job pulling the reader in and an even better job with descriptions. I felt part of this story and can't wait to read the second book!
Once started I could not put this book down. The characters were well-developed and relatable. The storyline was flawless. The author did a great job pulling the reader in and an even better job with descriptions. I felt part of this story and can't wait to read the second book!
April 28, 2017
Kelson, oh sweet Kelson! This book made me smile numerous times. With Kelson's crazy personality and antics it's almost impossible not to love him. The way Kelson tries to take care of everyone in his town is admirable. And the romance. YES! I'm usually an action person, I can live with a book without romance, but Kelson and Maddie's relationship? Beautiful. Totally a recommended book.
July 7, 2015
A nice but very mushy lovy dovy story about a boy beating bullies... Low depth and not very realist. A dream story for young girls...
Apart from that, the writing style is quite nice, and the reader is not bored.
Many bonus points for the battles descriptions which are very nicely done.
Apart from that, the writing style is quite nice, and the reader is not bored.
Many bonus points for the battles descriptions which are very nicely done.
March 2, 2015
Good Book!
December 10, 2014
Small Town Superhero
May 16, 2015
I loved it
I loved this books a lot and think that everyone should read it . I'm so looking forward to the next one in the series
I loved this books a lot and think that everyone should read it . I'm so looking forward to the next one in the series
May 17, 2016
Love this book a lot. Despite being somewhat of a vigilante, I commend the protagonist on what he's doing for the small town he's living in.
October 8, 2016
Really 3.5 stars.
January 25, 2019
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book felt like a modern reimagination of an 80’s teen flick with a vigilante twist. It felt like a mashup of Footloose, Karate Kid and Grease 2 but it works.
The plot has several of the beats you would expect. A troubled teen from the big city is sent to live with his family in a small town. He isn’t thrilled by this decision. He meets and befriends a girl. He finds himself running up against the local bullies. Hilarity ensues.
If this is all that it were, it would still be a decent though unremarkable read.
However, Alsop manages to instill character, motivation and back story into each of the main characters including the bullies. There are unexpected layers and no one is quite as clear cut as you may at first assume. I grew to care about the characters a bit more than I expected to.
The dialogue works and the action sequences were visually dynamic and well choreographed. It’s a grounded heroic vigilante origin story but never at the expense of character or setting.
And the mascot scene? Hilarious and awesome. You’ll know it when you see it.
I think most teens have felt a little out of step with the rest of the world and that would resonate with them – especially some of the escapist fantasy of unleashing sweet martial arts moves to solve their problems. This works in the novel but there is the nagging part of the back of my mind that worries that some issues are dark enough and complex enough that they can’t be solved by punching and kicking them. The book does involve themes that go there. Teen drinking, the tragedy of senseless death, survivor’s guilt, even sexual assault. They’re all discussed and are plot relevant. It’s not “on screen” or explicit. However if you have a teen that is reading this – maybe take a little time to discuss some of these things with them or at least be aware if there are potential triggers.
The narration was very well done. The world and the characters come to life and several accents used with ease. The book flies by before you know it.
If you enjoy YA adventure then this may be just what the doctor ordered.
This book felt like a modern reimagination of an 80’s teen flick with a vigilante twist. It felt like a mashup of Footloose, Karate Kid and Grease 2 but it works.
The plot has several of the beats you would expect. A troubled teen from the big city is sent to live with his family in a small town. He isn’t thrilled by this decision. He meets and befriends a girl. He finds himself running up against the local bullies. Hilarity ensues.
If this is all that it were, it would still be a decent though unremarkable read.
However, Alsop manages to instill character, motivation and back story into each of the main characters including the bullies. There are unexpected layers and no one is quite as clear cut as you may at first assume. I grew to care about the characters a bit more than I expected to.
The dialogue works and the action sequences were visually dynamic and well choreographed. It’s a grounded heroic vigilante origin story but never at the expense of character or setting.
And the mascot scene? Hilarious and awesome. You’ll know it when you see it.
I think most teens have felt a little out of step with the rest of the world and that would resonate with them – especially some of the escapist fantasy of unleashing sweet martial arts moves to solve their problems. This works in the novel but there is the nagging part of the back of my mind that worries that some issues are dark enough and complex enough that they can’t be solved by punching and kicking them. The book does involve themes that go there. Teen drinking, the tragedy of senseless death, survivor’s guilt, even sexual assault. They’re all discussed and are plot relevant. It’s not “on screen” or explicit. However if you have a teen that is reading this – maybe take a little time to discuss some of these things with them or at least be aware if there are potential triggers.
The narration was very well done. The world and the characters come to life and several accents used with ease. The book flies by before you know it.
If you enjoy YA adventure then this may be just what the doctor ordered.
October 21, 2022
Feel-good story of a reluctant hero with a past who single-handedly saves a small town
Enter reluctant hero: in school, displaced because of a tragic accident in his past, separated from all that is familiar and comfortable. But he has remarkable qualities: leadership, self-confidence, the ability to immediately act where others hesitate and the good fortune to almost always have a happy outcome to his actions. Add to that an ability to survive physical injuries in an astonishing manner, a lovely girl who catches his eye and heart, and a group of friends and family who, after first doubting him, support him in his daring exploits, and this is the making of another Cheree Alsop story.
Even though this story is not based in a fantasy world like her other works, it still has the same quality - a make-belief world where any danger can be overcome and the characters end in a happier place than where they started. Suspend belief and enjoy this story of a young man who changes the world and the people around him as he learns to hope and love again.
Enter reluctant hero: in school, displaced because of a tragic accident in his past, separated from all that is familiar and comfortable. But he has remarkable qualities: leadership, self-confidence, the ability to immediately act where others hesitate and the good fortune to almost always have a happy outcome to his actions. Add to that an ability to survive physical injuries in an astonishing manner, a lovely girl who catches his eye and heart, and a group of friends and family who, after first doubting him, support him in his daring exploits, and this is the making of another Cheree Alsop story.
Even though this story is not based in a fantasy world like her other works, it still has the same quality - a make-belief world where any danger can be overcome and the characters end in a happier place than where they started. Suspend belief and enjoy this story of a young man who changes the world and the people around him as he learns to hope and love again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2018
I didn't realize it at the time I downloaded
Small Town Superhero (Kindle Edition)
that it was written for YA , still I found it to be a great read. There wasn't any of the bloody gore that I like in a book but I fell in love with the characters from the very beginning. The plot is quite realistic and the dialogue very real life like. I quickly figured out how the story would end but I still kept turning the pages because I wanted to see how Kelson would bring it about. If you're like me and look for mystery/thrillers that have plenty of bloody violence and plenty of gratuitous sex but want to try something different, then read
Small Town Superhero (Kindle Edition)
. You'll be glad that you did!
November 22, 2020
This book was amazing! I really think that anyone who loves a read that will make you cry and laugh and likes a damaged but redeemed boy by finding love and finding peace with making the town right will enjoy this book. I'm not very good at criticizing and all books have flaws, along with his one but I think that you should give it a try. The main character went through some hard times and he wants to redeem himself. He does when he saves the town and befriends the bully, giving everyone new hope. Right now the e-book is free so if you have a kindle but it asap. Great for 13 and up. The lesson here is that one small amount of kindness can make someone's day. (Just don't go beating up anyone in the middle of the night or nearly kill yourself on a bike:)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2020
Sixteen-year-old Kelson with tragic background and broken family moves from the city to live with cousins in the country and encounters culture shock including the bullies who appear to have the small town and its school in thrall. His superpower is that he cares enough about the victims of bullying to do something about it even when adults turn a blind eye.
The family scenes are good and Kelson’s relationship with the Junk Dealing Uncle is interesting but the fight scenes and motorbike heroics are rather over the top.
The family scenes are good and Kelson’s relationship with the Junk Dealing Uncle is interesting but the fight scenes and motorbike heroics are rather over the top.
April 26, 2020
The first time I saw this book I thought this was going to be a super hero book but boy I was so hooked to the story of a normal boy trying to let go of the past and face his demons. Kelson the hero of the book must fight His inner demons as he tries to do the right thing by protecting his girlfriend and the people he loves. I loved the romance in the story. It felt real and not forced. I loved the fact that even the bullies were redeemed. No spoilers but its a good book especially for this covid19 season. You won't regret reading this book
November 7, 2020
Another great book by Cheree Alsop! A great look at real characters with real dilemmas we all face -- how to deal with our own shame? What to say/how to act toward bullies? Kelson finds a really imaginative way to conquer some real pain. I loved this book, especially the good descriptions of a lot of different girls and how they deal with life. A good read!
May 11, 2023
I like this story
This is a clean read. Few if any profane words. No sex scenes.
The main character has moved to a small town to visit some relatives. He ends up encountering the town bullies. He chooses to keep his martial arts skills a secret as he begins to defend the town from their bullying.
This is a clean read. Few if any profane words. No sex scenes.
The main character has moved to a small town to visit some relatives. He ends up encountering the town bullies. He chooses to keep his martial arts skills a secret as he begins to defend the town from their bullying.
June 28, 2021
Absolutely horrible. Poorly written and the story is full of gleeful, unnecessary violence. Adult themes that are unbelievable. Honestly, the mother didn't notice her child's black eyes? Especially as the mother is written as a sympathetic character. Hard pass.
December 27, 2021
Yo this was great
I wasn't sure what I was getting into when I started this book. The reality was a great look into people fighting old wounds and doing what was needed for their town and redemption.
I wasn't sure what I was getting into when I started this book. The reality was a great look into people fighting old wounds and doing what was needed for their town and redemption.
November 16, 2022
The Book
I actually think this was the best book I have read this year! It was moving and exciting and scary and heartwarming. I love all of your books. I always know when I pick one up, that it's going to be wonderful. Thank you so much for being you. I see you.
I actually think this was the best book I have read this year! It was moving and exciting and scary and heartwarming. I love all of your books. I always know when I pick one up, that it's going to be wonderful. Thank you so much for being you. I see you.
September 27, 2018
Kelson moves from the city to a small town after the tragic death of his sister. He's lost his way and doesn't know what to do with himself. Then he see the local gang that's running the town and decides to make life a little harder on them after seeing them bullying everyone they come in contact with. With his MMA background, a black bike, black riding suit and helmet and he's now the Black Rider.
I thought this was a smart story with characters that are fleshed out and made real. This story is perfect for the young reader looking for adventure. Wholesome but interesting way to look at small town living.
I thought this was a smart story with characters that are fleshed out and made real. This story is perfect for the young reader looking for adventure. Wholesome but interesting way to look at small town living.
April 26, 2019
Great Read
I loved the way it was written. Pretty much an edge of your seat book. The action kept on coming.
I loved the way it was written. Pretty much an edge of your seat book. The action kept on coming.
August 7, 2014
Small Town Superhero is the story of young Kelson Brady as he moves to the small town of Sparrow and is confronted with bullies.
Kelson thought he'd never recover from his sister's death. He thinks it's his fault. So when his mother sent him away to live with his aunt and uncle, he thinks its about what he deserved.
But even heartbroken, Kelson can't stand by and watch the Bullets, Sparrow's homegrown gang, bully other students and grownups alike. But he can't fight back, not at the risk of his family. So he creates the Black Rider, a black-clad motorcyclist vigilante fighting for the freedom of Sparrow's inhabitants.
Kelson is broken inside from his sister's death, but he finds healing in bringing justice to the weak and in a certain neighbor girl who is one of the few to find out the secret identity. The Black Rider gives Kelson a chance to atone for his sister's death and the part he played in it. But it also gives him a chance to find the hero in himself, and all boys need a hero.
Kelson thought he'd never recover from his sister's death. He thinks it's his fault. So when his mother sent him away to live with his aunt and uncle, he thinks its about what he deserved.
But even heartbroken, Kelson can't stand by and watch the Bullets, Sparrow's homegrown gang, bully other students and grownups alike. But he can't fight back, not at the risk of his family. So he creates the Black Rider, a black-clad motorcyclist vigilante fighting for the freedom of Sparrow's inhabitants.
Kelson is broken inside from his sister's death, but he finds healing in bringing justice to the weak and in a certain neighbor girl who is one of the few to find out the secret identity. The Black Rider gives Kelson a chance to atone for his sister's death and the part he played in it. But it also gives him a chance to find the hero in himself, and all boys need a hero.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews