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A Dark Hero is Irresistibly Drawn to the Man He Saves from Danger.
In the dark of night, Blaze wages war against St. Louis’s criminal masterminds. Once the sun rises, he’s Jordan Wells, quiet custom body shop owner. Jordan has accepted that it’s his destiny to walk alone in the shadows… until he meets Daniel, a sweet, untrained submissive. Jordan dreams of dominating the young man, of finding respite from his harsh life as a lone vigilante by losing himself in Danny’s loving submission.
Danny Griffin is thrilled to attend an exclusive D/s club, where he meets Jordan, an experienced Dom. Jordan appears to be the perfect man to help him explore his submissive fantasies. But Danny is also attracted to Blaze, the elusive hero who is always there when he needs him. When Danny discovers Blaze’s secret, he hopes that he can have the best of both worlds.
The passion between the hero and his lover burns bright and hot but Jordan knows that in order to keep Danny safe, he should let him go. Unfortunately, he can’t seem to tear himself away from his lover’s gentle smiles and soft kisses. Can Jordan risk a relationship with Danny when his life as Blaze is rife with danger?
BLAZE is Book One in a steamy superhero romance series. It has dramatic rescues, evil villains, and an emotionally satisfying Happily Ever After. Fans of comics and superhero movies who want to see their favorite heroes kiss will love this series!
Tags: Sci-Fi, Superheroes, Tortured Hero, Size Difference, Multicultural, Hurt/Comfort, Sunny & Emo, BDSM
Heat Level: High/Explicit
A Dark Hero is Irresistibly Drawn to the Man He Saves from Danger.
In the dark of night, Blaze wages war against St. Louis’s criminal masterminds. Once the sun rises, he’s Jordan Wells, quiet custom body shop owner. Jordan has accepted that it’s his destiny to walk alone in the shadows… until he meets Daniel, a sweet, untrained submissive. Jordan dreams of dominating the young man, of finding respite from his harsh life as a lone vigilante by losing himself in Danny’s loving submission.
Danny Griffin is thrilled to attend an exclusive D/s club, where he meets Jordan, an experienced Dom. Jordan appears to be the perfect man to help him explore his submissive fantasies. But Danny is also attracted to Blaze, the elusive hero who is always there when he needs him. When Danny discovers Blaze’s secret, he hopes that he can have the best of both worlds.
The passion between the hero and his lover burns bright and hot but Jordan knows that in order to keep Danny safe, he should let him go. Unfortunately, he can’t seem to tear himself away from his lover’s gentle smiles and soft kisses. Can Jordan risk a relationship with Danny when his life as Blaze is rife with danger?
BLAZE is Book One in a steamy superhero romance series. It has dramatic rescues, evil villains, and an emotionally satisfying Happily Ever After. Fans of comics and superhero movies who want to see their favorite heroes kiss will love this series!
Tags: Sci-Fi, Superheroes, Tortured Hero, Size Difference, Multicultural, Hurt/Comfort, Sunny & Emo, BDSM
Heat Level: High/Explicit
396 pages, ebook
First published October 6, 2019
59 people are currently reading
151 people want to read
About the author
Christa Tomlinson
33 books448 followersChrista Tomlinson is a pop culture loving, anime watching, nerdy fangirl who loves to read and write romance. She creates stories that are emotional and lovely with intimacy that is integral to the characters’ romantic arc.
Christa grew up reading romance giants Johanna Lindsey, Julie Garwood, and Virgina Henley - thanks to her older sister who gave her her first romance novel many years before she should have been reading such saucy content. Christa's first attempt at writing her own romance novel was in middle school - a historical that will never see the light of day. Since that first attempt, Christa has written many spicy fanfictions of her favorite characters and romances featuring her own hot and sexy heroes. Her first self-published romance, The Sergeant, was an Amazon best seller in Gay Romance for seven weeks in a row.
After many years in the sunny warmth of Houston, Texas, Christa has returned home to St. Louis, Missouri. She is a former high school social studies teacher and retired roller derby player. Don't ask her if romance requires an HEA or she'll use her roller derby skills to hip check you.
Christa grew up reading romance giants Johanna Lindsey, Julie Garwood, and Virgina Henley - thanks to her older sister who gave her her first romance novel many years before she should have been reading such saucy content. Christa's first attempt at writing her own romance novel was in middle school - a historical that will never see the light of day. Since that first attempt, Christa has written many spicy fanfictions of her favorite characters and romances featuring her own hot and sexy heroes. Her first self-published romance, The Sergeant, was an Amazon best seller in Gay Romance for seven weeks in a row.
After many years in the sunny warmth of Houston, Texas, Christa has returned home to St. Louis, Missouri. She is a former high school social studies teacher and retired roller derby player. Don't ask her if romance requires an HEA or she'll use her roller derby skills to hip check you.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 8, 2020
Perfection
I recommend this book if you are frustrated by the lack of black queer superheroes in your life! I really loved this book from beginning to end. Jordan was totally an sweet Alpha personality that is totally Dom Goals and Danny is adorable. The plot was awesome and the BDSM element added a nice toucb.
I recommend this book if you are frustrated by the lack of black queer superheroes in your life! I really loved this book from beginning to end. Jordan was totally an sweet Alpha personality that is totally Dom Goals and Danny is adorable. The plot was awesome and the BDSM element added a nice toucb.
December 31, 2021
Another super-satisfying book by Christa Tomlinson (and this one really puts the SUPER in super-satisfying). This book really hits a great balance by working in well-worn tropes of both romance and superhero fandom in a way that is emotionally satisfying without being cheesy and too predictable. Danny is adorable and relatable, Jordan is a Dom of dreams but emotionally accessible and vulnerable enough to really connect to. The whole world is written with the empathy and care I’ve come to expect and deeply appreciate from Christa - the good-natured diversity and acceptance adds to the pleasure of reading this. I want to escape into that part of the world as much as I do the romance sometimes! Eager to read the rest of the series now. If you enjoy romantic m/m BDSM and especially if you like the tropes/topics on the tin, I’d recommend giving this one a whirl.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Note: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2020
I heard good things about this one, super heroes out saving the world, something that needs to happen in today's world. Was a bit surprised to find out it was also BSDM and m/m, but I read both of those genre's so I went with it. After reading 20% I'm giving this one up. I found I didn't really like Danny, he was too goodie/goodie, too Mary Sue, he kept annoying me. In the end this one wasn't for me.
July 21, 2025
BLAZE: The Superhero Who Claimed me is the second book in the Arch City Guardians series. This can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is the story of Jordan also known as Blaze a superhero and Danny. I love these two so much. They are perfect together but have stuff to work through. The story pulled me in from the start. It has everything I like in a superhero story action, some kink, great friends, and an interesting plot. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
November 12, 2019
A copy of this story was provided free in return for an honest review via Goodreads Don’t Buy My Love Program.
This is a generous 3 stars. At around 60% I was ready for the story to end which made the next 30% or so a bit of a slog. This was incredibly slow burn, and well… just slow overall. Ms. Tomlinson’s trend is to pack a lot into her books. They are long, so you get your money’s worth, but, maybe, we don’t need quite so much.
Setting: This is urban fantasy with a slew of superheroes who mask their identity set in the lovely south… St. Louis. What I noticed is that other than the Arch, this story could have taken anywhere. I’ve never been (to St. Louis), but pretty much all I was visualizing is a generic city with a park, a wharf and a big ol’ Arch.
Characterization: I was disappointed that the main characters sounded too homogenized, with very little slang, and almost zero accent. Several side characters were more interesting at points. As for the superheroes, it would have been cool if we could have been introduced to them earlier in the story instead of just at the end.
Storyline: Our hero, Blaze/Jordan, saves Danny, a graphic artist. Blaze is Latino(?) and Danny is African American. Danny is described as little and meek and essentially scrawny with a penchant for wearing club clothing. Blaze/Jordan is the exact opposite. I didn’t really care for the whole BDSM aspect. It only served to lengthen the story with the added sexual encounters. Around page 180/303 the hero action totally drops off and the story became all about the romance. What?! Crime doesn’t sleep?? Along the way there are three different villains, but only two meet their demise. What happened to #3? I will note that the action scenes when they did occur were pretty good. I’m all for the battles!
And finally… Editing. There was a huge editing issue with quote marks. Quite distracting. The marks were often in the wrong place or the wrong direction making following the conversation harder than it had to be. Are they thinking this or speaking this? Unfortunately, this pulled me out of the story every time.
This is a generous 3 stars. At around 60% I was ready for the story to end which made the next 30% or so a bit of a slog. This was incredibly slow burn, and well… just slow overall. Ms. Tomlinson’s trend is to pack a lot into her books. They are long, so you get your money’s worth, but, maybe, we don’t need quite so much.
Setting: This is urban fantasy with a slew of superheroes who mask their identity set in the lovely south… St. Louis. What I noticed is that other than the Arch, this story could have taken anywhere. I’ve never been (to St. Louis), but pretty much all I was visualizing is a generic city with a park, a wharf and a big ol’ Arch.
Characterization: I was disappointed that the main characters sounded too homogenized, with very little slang, and almost zero accent. Several side characters were more interesting at points. As for the superheroes, it would have been cool if we could have been introduced to them earlier in the story instead of just at the end.
Storyline: Our hero, Blaze/Jordan, saves Danny, a graphic artist. Blaze is Latino(?) and Danny is African American. Danny is described as little and meek and essentially scrawny with a penchant for wearing club clothing. Blaze/Jordan is the exact opposite. I didn’t really care for the whole BDSM aspect. It only served to lengthen the story with the added sexual encounters. Around page 180/303 the hero action totally drops off and the story became all about the romance. What?! Crime doesn’t sleep?? Along the way there are three different villains, but only two meet their demise. What happened to #3? I will note that the action scenes when they did occur were pretty good. I’m all for the battles!
And finally… Editing. There was a huge editing issue with quote marks. Quite distracting. The marks were often in the wrong place or the wrong direction making following the conversation harder than it had to be. Are they thinking this or speaking this? Unfortunately, this pulled me out of the story every time.
December 6, 2019
2.5 Stars: It Was Okay...
...but definitely won't be a favorite for me. Blaze is an electrically charged pseudo-metahuman who rushes around St. Louis, MO, doing acts of good to atone for a less-than-stellar past. He's also a Dom...ish...and he can't resist an innocent to the D/s world who ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Danny is an artist, publishing his fun stuff on his social media to gain attention and garner sales. When he winds up surrounded by the evil Red Vests, a hero comes to his rescue, and Danny can't help but be awed by the magnificent Blaze.
It sounded like such a great premise, and I am a *huge* fan of this author, so I eagerly jumped when I saw an opportunity to read it. But it lacked so much of the author's normal dedicated detail that I never really connected to either the storylines or the characters. Other than repeated references to the arch and one to the Mississippi River, the story could have been set absolutely anywhere. The mechanic shop that Jordan owns never fleshed out either, despite several scenes being set in that environment.
That said, I did enjoy the BDSM elements for the most part. It is BDSM super-fluffy, so don't expect the more strict scenes that the author is known for, but it is still written nicely. The supporting characters are vast and yet still somehow vague, relatives and superheroes and Danny's adorable roommate, Scott, who has precious little time in the book but brightened every scene in which he appeared.
I did not feel any chemistry between the characters for most of the book. It wasn't until the incredibly angsty Blaze blew the relationship to smithereens that I finally felt something tangible between them.
This was a difficult read for all of these reasons and more. I'm rating it at 2.5 stars and rounding down for sites that don't accept halves because I can't justify (to myself) rounding it up. Will I read the next in the series? Probably not. However, my brain isn't yours, and your mileage may vary. Don't make a determination strictly on my review.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book from the Goodreads program Don't Buy My Love.
...but definitely won't be a favorite for me. Blaze is an electrically charged pseudo-metahuman who rushes around St. Louis, MO, doing acts of good to atone for a less-than-stellar past. He's also a Dom...ish...and he can't resist an innocent to the D/s world who ends up in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Danny is an artist, publishing his fun stuff on his social media to gain attention and garner sales. When he winds up surrounded by the evil Red Vests, a hero comes to his rescue, and Danny can't help but be awed by the magnificent Blaze.
It sounded like such a great premise, and I am a *huge* fan of this author, so I eagerly jumped when I saw an opportunity to read it. But it lacked so much of the author's normal dedicated detail that I never really connected to either the storylines or the characters. Other than repeated references to the arch and one to the Mississippi River, the story could have been set absolutely anywhere. The mechanic shop that Jordan owns never fleshed out either, despite several scenes being set in that environment.
That said, I did enjoy the BDSM elements for the most part. It is BDSM super-fluffy, so don't expect the more strict scenes that the author is known for, but it is still written nicely. The supporting characters are vast and yet still somehow vague, relatives and superheroes and Danny's adorable roommate, Scott, who has precious little time in the book but brightened every scene in which he appeared.
I did not feel any chemistry between the characters for most of the book. It wasn't until the incredibly angsty Blaze blew the relationship to smithereens that I finally felt something tangible between them.
This was a difficult read for all of these reasons and more. I'm rating it at 2.5 stars and rounding down for sites that don't accept halves because I can't justify (to myself) rounding it up. Will I read the next in the series? Probably not. However, my brain isn't yours, and your mileage may vary. Don't make a determination strictly on my review.
I voluntarily read an ARC copy of this book from the Goodreads program Don't Buy My Love.
November 7, 2019
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book took me by surprise. The blurb caught my eye, but the cover did nothing for me. In the end, the story did draw me in and I really enjoyed it. Much of the book was very little angst. I have mixed feelings about that. When it comes to superheroes I want some angst, but the sweet romance between Daniel and Jordan/Blaze kept my attention away from the fact that there was little trouble for our MCs. The world building was well done, and the secondary characters intrigued me enough to want to read any books in this to-be series.
Now let’s talk about the BDSM element in this story. Frankly I’m a fan of BDSM books but I know it’s not for everyone. Though BDSM is a key component in Daniel and Jordan’s relationship it is not hardcore BDSM. There are not major whippings or anything like that. It is very tastefully done. Also, Daniel is not some mindless submissive who doesn’t know what he wants or needs. He has no problem telling Jordan how he feels, and he is completely confident in himself, which makes me love him a little more.
Overall a great start to a new series. The writing my not be as polished as other books I’ve read, but the author has talent.
This book took me by surprise. The blurb caught my eye, but the cover did nothing for me. In the end, the story did draw me in and I really enjoyed it. Much of the book was very little angst. I have mixed feelings about that. When it comes to superheroes I want some angst, but the sweet romance between Daniel and Jordan/Blaze kept my attention away from the fact that there was little trouble for our MCs. The world building was well done, and the secondary characters intrigued me enough to want to read any books in this to-be series.
Now let’s talk about the BDSM element in this story. Frankly I’m a fan of BDSM books but I know it’s not for everyone. Though BDSM is a key component in Daniel and Jordan’s relationship it is not hardcore BDSM. There are not major whippings or anything like that. It is very tastefully done. Also, Daniel is not some mindless submissive who doesn’t know what he wants or needs. He has no problem telling Jordan how he feels, and he is completely confident in himself, which makes me love him a little more.
Overall a great start to a new series. The writing my not be as polished as other books I’ve read, but the author has talent.
March 27, 2022
3.75⭐️
Fun superhero, D/s romp. I loved Danny's confident, sweet and bold personality; he was definitely a match for the Jordan aka Blaze, the resident Batman-esque electrokinetic. Overall, I enjoyed their story and dynamic; they had good chemistry and Danny's introduction to sensory play is intense. I think Tomlinson does a good job balancing Jo-Blaze's guilt-laden aversion to being in a relationship with Danny so that he doesn't become overly maudlin and keeping his inevitable "for his own good" break-up with Danny from being too irritating.
I did wish for more clarity regarding how superpowers are acquired in this world. From the way certain info is presented in the beginning of the story, it felt like people may have been experimented on/exposed and gotten powers in a scientific way by the sketchy Pruitt Co. but Jordan gets his powers in a straight up old-school comic, electric wire in a puddle type way, and as there is no mention of chemicals, radiation, or hints of sketchy clouds over neighborhoods, etc, I was left confused. I can go with 'hey we just get superpowers somehow' as long as that's what the author sticks to. Maybe, that'll be explored in book 2. All in all a good time with plenty of damseling and a personal hero-villian relationship.
Fun superhero, D/s romp. I loved Danny's confident, sweet and bold personality; he was definitely a match for the Jordan aka Blaze, the resident Batman-esque electrokinetic. Overall, I enjoyed their story and dynamic; they had good chemistry and Danny's introduction to sensory play is intense. I think Tomlinson does a good job balancing Jo-Blaze's guilt-laden aversion to being in a relationship with Danny so that he doesn't become overly maudlin and keeping his inevitable "for his own good" break-up with Danny from being too irritating.
I did wish for more clarity regarding how superpowers are acquired in this world. From the way certain info is presented in the beginning of the story, it felt like people may have been experimented on/exposed and gotten powers in a scientific way by the sketchy Pruitt Co. but Jordan gets his powers in a straight up old-school comic, electric wire in a puddle type way, and as there is no mention of chemicals, radiation, or hints of sketchy clouds over neighborhoods, etc, I was left confused. I can go with 'hey we just get superpowers somehow' as long as that's what the author sticks to. Maybe, that'll be explored in book 2. All in all a good time with plenty of damseling and a personal hero-villian relationship.
October 23, 2019
💖🔥💖🔥💖 Highly Recommended Book.. A great start to the book as it got me glued straight way. A superhero with electric powers and supper strength plus other powers made a awesome superhero.
Includes danger in the night ally ways, hot chemistry, bdsm play, hair-raising moments and heeps more.
Blaze's ex turns up but we'll I can't say major spoiler. Which means huge trouble ahead.. a great aghast and secrets book for both characters. I felt for Jordan as his attraction for Danny vs keeping him safe and away from getting emotionally hurt was big. The sexy scenes where really hot I loved the office desk scene and others. The ending was gripping the seat of your seats for their HEA as Jordan. .nope not telling.. Highly recommended book brilliantly told with both POVs, never boring as the bad guys keep it intriguing.
Blaze was a superhero keeping people safe from gangs and the bad guys.
Danny was new to bdsm and wanted to experience it by going to a club but gets caught by 3 gang members..Luckily Blaze was near by.
Jordan aka Blaze and a Dom with a past selecting not to have a sub in futures. Yah well see...lol.
Includes danger in the night ally ways, hot chemistry, bdsm play, hair-raising moments and heeps more.
Blaze's ex turns up but we'll I can't say major spoiler. Which means huge trouble ahead.. a great aghast and secrets book for both characters. I felt for Jordan as his attraction for Danny vs keeping him safe and away from getting emotionally hurt was big. The sexy scenes where really hot I loved the office desk scene and others. The ending was gripping the seat of your seats for their HEA as Jordan. .nope not telling.. Highly recommended book brilliantly told with both POVs, never boring as the bad guys keep it intriguing.
Blaze was a superhero keeping people safe from gangs and the bad guys.
Danny was new to bdsm and wanted to experience it by going to a club but gets caught by 3 gang members..Luckily Blaze was near by.
Jordan aka Blaze and a Dom with a past selecting not to have a sub in futures. Yah well see...lol.
May 23, 2022
I'm feeling lousy, and nothing makes me happy when I feel rotten. So take this review with a big ol' heap of salt. I had to write a review for a challenge, otherwise I would have left it with the star rating and kept my thoughts to myself.
I've read several other books by this author and enjoyed them quite a bit. But I just couldn't connect with this one. Jordan and Danny just didn't mesh. Jordan ran his business and did his superhero thing at night. Danny was an artist who occasionally got mugged or kidnapped so that Jordan could save him. It felt like they were more running in tandem than becoming a couple.
The book also felt choppy. We were introduced to the Villain right away, but then all thought of him disappears while Jordan and Danny have a lot of sex. The most vanilla BDSM sex you can imagine. (Which, hey. If that's your thing, more power to you. But I'm not sure you need a membership to the most expensive club in town to do it.) And then the sex was mostly done, and the plot kicked in again.
One thing that I really appreciated was the callback to the old Batman TV show in the route Jordan (or Blaze, since he's in his superhero persona) took to his lair.
I'm definitely *not* saying don't read it. If you're looking for superhero romance, this could really scratch that itch. It just didn't work for me, in a moment when I'm feeling crappy and very hard to please.
I've read several other books by this author and enjoyed them quite a bit. But I just couldn't connect with this one. Jordan and Danny just didn't mesh. Jordan ran his business and did his superhero thing at night. Danny was an artist who occasionally got mugged or kidnapped so that Jordan could save him. It felt like they were more running in tandem than becoming a couple.
The book also felt choppy. We were introduced to the Villain right away, but then all thought of him disappears while Jordan and Danny have a lot of sex. The most vanilla BDSM sex you can imagine. (Which, hey. If that's your thing, more power to you. But I'm not sure you need a membership to the most expensive club in town to do it.) And then the sex was mostly done, and the plot kicked in again.
One thing that I really appreciated was the callback to the old Batman TV show in the route Jordan (or Blaze, since he's in his superhero persona) took to his lair.
I'm definitely *not* saying don't read it. If you're looking for superhero romance, this could really scratch that itch. It just didn't work for me, in a moment when I'm feeling crappy and very hard to please.
November 6, 2019
Your Superhero as your boyfriend? Oh yeah!
This is a great way to start a series! Christa has created a vibrant world filled with intriguing characters. I was pulled in from the first pages. I was enveloped in this wild rush, hurtling towards the very HEA ending.
This is Jordan and Danny's story. Driven by guilt, Jordan patrols the streets of St. Louis as the vigilante, Blaze. Danny is a fan artist extraordinaire. He draws all the superheroes, his favorite being Blaze. He never expects to be rescued by him! Superheroes don't have personal lives. They don't fall in love. They don't get HEA. Right? Danny vows to change that. Not even weekly bouts of peril can change his mind. It takes an old enemy and persistent super friends to help Jordan see he can have it all. But first he must let go of his guilt and rescue himself.
This book has it all: danger, loyalty, love, self- realization, determined superhero friends, enemies, and sex. Hot sex. Come. Fall into this fabulous world. You'll be glad you did.
This book contains adult themes and language, violence, mm sex and is intended for mature readers only.
This is a great way to start a series! Christa has created a vibrant world filled with intriguing characters. I was pulled in from the first pages. I was enveloped in this wild rush, hurtling towards the very HEA ending.
This is Jordan and Danny's story. Driven by guilt, Jordan patrols the streets of St. Louis as the vigilante, Blaze. Danny is a fan artist extraordinaire. He draws all the superheroes, his favorite being Blaze. He never expects to be rescued by him! Superheroes don't have personal lives. They don't fall in love. They don't get HEA. Right? Danny vows to change that. Not even weekly bouts of peril can change his mind. It takes an old enemy and persistent super friends to help Jordan see he can have it all. But first he must let go of his guilt and rescue himself.
This book has it all: danger, loyalty, love, self- realization, determined superhero friends, enemies, and sex. Hot sex. Come. Fall into this fabulous world. You'll be glad you did.
This book contains adult themes and language, violence, mm sex and is intended for mature readers only.
dnf
August 6, 2020DNF at 46%
I wanted to read this for the Secret Identity square in The Ripped Bodice’s Summer Romance Bingo. The combination of a super hero with BDSM sounded so intriguing! Unfortunately, I found myself very bored and even with skipping ahead a little, I’m still not pulled into the story. The writing style is more telling than showing. Danny is impossibly innocent and naive in a way that doesn't seem real and it’s grating on my nerves. I was glad that Blaze/Jordan didn’t hide his superhero identity for long but I’m not keen on his self-denial and thought it was strange that he’d gift Danny a membership to his BDSM club as Blaze and then approach him there as Jordan when he’s not interested in a relationship of any kind. The BDSM rep felt good, at least as far as I read, so I may give a different book in the series a try someday.
CW: mugging, threat of sexual assault, drug Croton, past death of loved one
I wanted to read this for the Secret Identity square in The Ripped Bodice’s Summer Romance Bingo. The combination of a super hero with BDSM sounded so intriguing! Unfortunately, I found myself very bored and even with skipping ahead a little, I’m still not pulled into the story. The writing style is more telling than showing. Danny is impossibly innocent and naive in a way that doesn't seem real and it’s grating on my nerves. I was glad that Blaze/Jordan didn’t hide his superhero identity for long but I’m not keen on his self-denial and thought it was strange that he’d gift Danny a membership to his BDSM club as Blaze and then approach him there as Jordan when he’s not interested in a relationship of any kind. The BDSM rep felt good, at least as far as I read, so I may give a different book in the series a try someday.
CW: mugging, threat of sexual assault, drug Croton, past death of loved one
April 13, 2023
I’ve read this authors’ Sergeant Series and LOVED IT. Unfortunately I didn’t love this one quite as much. I don’t think it has ever taken me so long to finish a book. I just didn’t have any desire to pick it up or keep reading. There’s a lot of reasons I didn’t love this story, but without spoilers, all I can say is I’m not a huge fan of several of the troupes used. Blaze is a bit of a tortured soul reminiscent of Batman, and while I love dark and broody, his level of self-loathing and self-sabotage had me constantly annoyed with him. Danny is a little beam of sunshine and was undeserving of all the trauma he had to deal with while dating Blaze.
I wanted to finish this story, and I never considered not finishing, so it was a well-written plot, but just not my thing, personally. The ongoing drama and attacks on Danny were exhausting and didn’t feel cohesive or tied to the storyline. There was a bad villain who grew up with Blaze but not every attack came from him, some were just random, so poor Danny was just an all-around bad-luck magnet. Also, we meet Blaze's ex, who is closely involved with the villains but then we never hear from him again. One of several 'unfinished' storylines.
I’ll probably pick up this author again sometime, I just don’t think Blaze was for me.
I wanted to finish this story, and I never considered not finishing, so it was a well-written plot, but just not my thing, personally. The ongoing drama and attacks on Danny were exhausting and didn’t feel cohesive or tied to the storyline. There was a bad villain who grew up with Blaze but not every attack came from him, some were just random, so poor Danny was just an all-around bad-luck magnet. Also, we meet Blaze's ex, who is closely involved with the villains but then we never hear from him again. One of several 'unfinished' storylines.
I’ll probably pick up this author again sometime, I just don’t think Blaze was for me.
October 31, 2019
I was given a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Blaze is set in an alternative universe so suspend your beliefs before entering. We have superheroes and we have villains - very much the world of Spiderman, Batman and even Superman. I liked this although I did wonder about a BDSM relationship between a mere mortal and a guy who channelled electricity. Blaze actually does more than this but that was the basis of his superpower. I didn't need to concern myself here because there was very little to the BDSM component of the book. We saw a couple of brief scenes and the MCs did meet when Danny was on his way to a BDSM club.
The book was well written and there was obviously an editor involved. I liked the story and I really liked the main characters.
Recommended for a lazy afternoon where escapism is recommended.
Blaze is set in an alternative universe so suspend your beliefs before entering. We have superheroes and we have villains - very much the world of Spiderman, Batman and even Superman. I liked this although I did wonder about a BDSM relationship between a mere mortal and a guy who channelled electricity. Blaze actually does more than this but that was the basis of his superpower. I didn't need to concern myself here because there was very little to the BDSM component of the book. We saw a couple of brief scenes and the MCs did meet when Danny was on his way to a BDSM club.
The book was well written and there was obviously an editor involved. I liked the story and I really liked the main characters.
Recommended for a lazy afternoon where escapism is recommended.
June 8, 2020
I eagerly read romance novels set in St. Louis. And honestly, most of them do not get it right. Christa Tomlinsongets it right. (There was one tiny issue, we call the ravioli toasted even though it is fried.) But seriously, the characters were real and the plot was well developed. It was a really fun read with superheroes, and a geekcon and some BDSM mixed in. I can't wait to read more about the Arch City Defenders with the other books in the series. The BDSM is very light, so if you're normally someone who doesn't like BDSM I think you would still enjoy this book. I've only seen some of the superhero movies, so I wouldn't call myself a superhero fan, but I still really liked this book and plan to read more in the series.
January 8, 2022
I love the work of Christa Tomlinson and this is no exception. The world needs more gay super heroes and Blaze is certainly one of them. A fun twist. Gay superhero crime fighter who happens to be a dom, serendipitously meets Danny, a very sweet, ridiculously lovable sub wanna-be. Sparks fly...literally. The only thing missing was maybe a theme song and some captions during fight scenes with words like KAPOW! and ZAP! The novel is well-paced and characters well-developed. A very satisfying HEA was perhaps the cherry on top. One thing I must say that ultimately made me laugh would be when a chapter ended and you were left with a cliffhanger...for the few seconds it took you to start the next chapter. Kind of like a stay-tuned-for-next-week's-episode moment. Kudos to Ms. Tomlinson for a job well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 1, 2025
If it's a superhero/villain story, I'm there for it. Tongue-in-cheek and sometimes sarcastic, sometimes surprisingly thoughtful. Author Crista Tomlinson throws in some D/s play. And the best, while Jordan is the Dom of Danny's dreams, he also has a crush on superhero, Blaze, and doesn't know that they are the same man. That's a fun trope, one not often explored.
I enjoyed the BDSM scenes. And the rescue scenes. A nice, slow burning chemistry between the main characters. There's some interesting side characters. And there's a low key action story. Overall it's a fun book, not real deep. Something lite when you have a bit of free time.
I received an advanced copy of this re-release and this is my review.
I enjoyed the BDSM scenes. And the rescue scenes. A nice, slow burning chemistry between the main characters. There's some interesting side characters. And there's a low key action story. Overall it's a fun book, not real deep. Something lite when you have a bit of free time.
I received an advanced copy of this re-release and this is my review.
October 13, 2020
I was so excited to read an MM superhero book. This book also had a D/s relationship which was perfect to go with the physical differences in power, but the emotional power that Danny has over Jordan. This book was so good!
Years ago I read Jennifer Estep’s superhero romances and haven’t read anything like them until this book.
Superheroes are a part of St. Louis life since the police in this world are bots and not trusted. Blaze saves Danny from a mugging when Danny is trying out a new club. Blaze gifts him with a membership to a safe club and meets him as Jordan.
I loved both of these characters. Danny is sweet and fun. Jordan is all broody and guilt ridden which imo makes the perfect alpha hero. The two go through a lot together and the growth of their relationship through the book is so good!
Years ago I read Jennifer Estep’s superhero romances and haven’t read anything like them until this book.
Superheroes are a part of St. Louis life since the police in this world are bots and not trusted. Blaze saves Danny from a mugging when Danny is trying out a new club. Blaze gifts him with a membership to a safe club and meets him as Jordan.
I loved both of these characters. Danny is sweet and fun. Jordan is all broody and guilt ridden which imo makes the perfect alpha hero. The two go through a lot together and the growth of their relationship through the book is so good!
June 10, 2020
Blaze is a fun adventure filled with a mix of starry eyed romance, sexual exploration, and the angsty ups and downs you would expect when falling for a superhero. The story moved at a good pace and despite being a superhero story, managed to avoid most of the cliches or the genre (not that I mind the cliches - that’s part of the draw to superhero stories!). It was original, engaging, and intense at all the right times. If you like superheroes and/or love stories, you should definitely read Blaze!
August 14, 2025
Exciting series start. Jordan Wells, custom body shop owner, has an alter ego Blaze, superhero. Because of his dangerous side hustle, he expects to be alone for the rest of his life. Danny, is a submissive willing to explore his interests with Jordan. Blaze's enemies feel Danny is his weakness and try to exploit the relationship. The mystery, the action, the adventure and the desire, keep you revved up and wanting. Blaze and Danny, are amazing men and work well together. Great story, excellent pacing and mystery. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am volutarily leaving a review.
August 2, 2025
I received a free copy of this ebook from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest opinion.
I really enjoyed this book! This is the first Christa Tomlinson book I've read, and I was thoroughly impressed. The blend of the superhero plot with the character's unique relationship blended well without feeling forced. Blaze's past made his current fears for Daniel make sense. I also loved how soft, but strong Daniel was. He was a perfect fit for Jordan.
I really enjoyed this book! This is the first Christa Tomlinson book I've read, and I was thoroughly impressed. The blend of the superhero plot with the character's unique relationship blended well without feeling forced. Blaze's past made his current fears for Daniel make sense. I also loved how soft, but strong Daniel was. He was a perfect fit for Jordan.
November 29, 2021
Loved this book. So excited for the sequel.
The MCs have serious heat, and it was refreshing to see POC. The BDSM was a nice twist as well.
Honestly, I could write droves about this book, but the main reason I loved it was because the characters and the situations seemed real. I escaped into their world, but it was a world that could've been just outside my window.
The MCs have serious heat, and it was refreshing to see POC. The BDSM was a nice twist as well.
Honestly, I could write droves about this book, but the main reason I loved it was because the characters and the situations seemed real. I escaped into their world, but it was a world that could've been just outside my window.
August 3, 2025
I absolutely loved this! So nice to have a completely different backdrop (so much mm sports themes!). The superhero theme was so interesting as was all the action. It had everything from evil villains to an emotionally satisfying HEA. Highly recommend and looking forward to the next book!
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
August 9, 2025
Enjoyed all the superhero parts and the villains Jordan has to fight as Blaze, but what really hit home was the sacrifices Jordan had to make (and some he only thought he had to make) in order to keep anyone he cared about at arms length and out of harms way. Turned out that didn't work with Daniel and these two made a wonderful couple.
August 17, 2025
If you love reading about superheroes, this book is right up your alley! Jordan has a secret identity, and when he steps out as Blaze to protect his neighbor, he meets Danny—and sparks fly. But Jordan doesn’t believe in happily-ever-afters. As their bond grows, their connection deepens, making their lives hotter, spicier, and full of unexpected twists.
October 7, 2021
This was a totally different kind of read for me but pretty good. Danny is just the cutest and Jordan makes a pretty good superhero! A very engaging and enjoyable story! Very well written! Really held my interest. Received arc and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
January 6, 2022
Blaze by new-author-to-me, Christa Tomlinson, was well-written. The characters were well-developed. The only hang up I have about this story is the size difference.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2022
This was a very fun read! It had lots of good sexy scenes and some great humor. Danny and Blaze/Jordan might get a bit of insta-chemistry but it wasn’t insta-love. The kinks were interesting and hot. Danny was adorable and funny and Blaze/Jordan was hot and broody.
August 3, 2025
Take an african american superhero fighting to protect and enhance his town, mix with one supercute and confident twink artist and throw in some light D/s and you have a recipe for a great time! Now I want to see Danny's art! Particularly the balcony scene
November 7, 2019
Set aside logical thinking and you have a lot of fun with this book. I liked the romance and some of the superhero stuff.
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