Alpha Male

What an awesome find. Who is this guy and why haven't I heard of him before? I can seldom resist a superhero story, but this totally and impressively exceeded my expectations, adjusted to humble because of the unknown author. At first glance Alpha Male is a prototypical superhero/city protector, white and red costume, mask, super strength, flight, near invincibility. But as the novel progresses, Mays peels his hero like an onion (not literally, although there is plenty of graphic violence within these pages) to reveal fascinating layers of complexity and just to maintain the balance he does the same with the supervillain too. The end effect is a sort of blur between the clear cut black and white lines of morality, realistic approach for a real world where heroes can be villainous and villains can be heroic. Realism is sort of a theme throughout the book, it's dark, tragic at times, life isn't easy for anyone, whether they have powers or not, but all the characters commit themselves to pursuing justice (or at least their version of) and as such are interesting and engaging, much like their story. Very action driven and I normally don't care for reading action, it's sort of like watching a cooking show instead of eating, but it worked here. Really enjoyable entertaining read. Absolute must for superhero fans. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.