It was a very unique take on Superheroes.
Engaging plot and characters.
I loved the plot a lot.
Definitely recommend.

A unique take on super heroes! I really enjoyed this story and the concept. It was slower paced than I generally like and was hard for me to get into, until about 50-60% of the way through. After that, it was very entertaining.
It was a good story, and I'm very intrigued to see where the next book takes it after that heartbreaking ending!

If you like:
The Boys
Slow Burn Romance
Superhero x Human Romance
Stubborn FMC
One Night Stand
Enemies to Lovers

I liked this book, but I wanted to like it more. I think a lot of the problem I had is I just finished reading Velveteen vs the Early Adventures by Seanan McGuire which was superb, I doubt any book could have followed it. I don't want to compare books but I think this one go the short straw of my reading list.

This is a interesting book with an interesting premise, but I just could not get into it and I just kept putting it down and not wanting to go back. I truly think that this has a lot of potential and I want more superhero fiction books so I encourage everyone to read it (or write one).

If you’re ready for a twist on the superhero trope—think The Boys meets dark fantasy with plenty of spice—Gilded Hero is your next must-read.

The Premise:
Meet our daring (and totally human) heroine who’s over being stuck in the shadows of super-powered celebrities. She wants more, demands more, and that “more” shows up in the form of Athos: a charismatic Super with a killer smile and a plan to change both their fates. Their one-night stand sparks an unexpected partnership, opening the door to a secret world where not all heroes are what they seem…and some are anything but heroic.

Why You’ll Love It:
• Enemies → Lovers → Enemies Tension: Prepare for banter and chemistry that sizzles—and flips your expectations at every turn.
• Dark Fantasy Superhero Vibes: The glitz of hero-worship meets the grit of a dangerously deceptive underworld.
• Black Cat FMC & Golden Retriever MMC: A classic contrast that promises both heartwarming and pulse-pounding moments.
• High Stakes & Spicy Scenes: From hidden agendas to steam-laden encounters, you’ll be on the edge of your seat (or bed!).

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when the everyday meets the extraordinary—and the extraordinary isn’t quite so shiny—Gilded Hero delivers a wild, riveting ride.

#GildedHero #CMTillman #DarkFantasy #EnemiesToLovers #SuperheroRomance #SpicyReads #TheBoysVibes #FantasyRomance #MustRead #Bookstagram #BookTok #ReadersOfInstagram #BlackCatFMC #GoldenRetrieverMMC

An interesting take on Superheroes. This is similar to The Boys, in that it’s a more realistic portrayal of how humans would react to living in a world filled with Supes, and also the style of violence is similar.
The violence doesn’t really appear until near the end, unlike The Boys, so it’s more of a shock when it does happen.
There’s a twist at the end and you’ll want to read the sequel straight away, but we’ll have to wait!
I am interested in where this will go, and the new relationships that will form in the next book.

4⭐ | Superpowers, Swoon, and a Cliffhanger That Left Me Screaming

Gilded Hero by CM Tillman hooked me from the very first page with its fresh take on superheroes, sizzling chemistry, and a plot so gripping I couldn’t stop reading. If you’re a fan of strong FMCs, charming yet mysterious MMCs, and high-stakes drama, this book is for you.

Lily, our headstrong and no-nonsense FMC, has no love for Supers and their godlike egos—until a chance one-night stand with Athos, a centuries-old Supe, flips her world upside down. Their dynamic is pure magic: witty banter, undeniable tension, and a slow-burn connection that has you rooting for them even as they push each other’s buttons.

The world-building here is next level, blending sci-fi and fantasy in a way that feels entirely unique. Think The Boys but in a post-apoloptic world. From the societal divide between Supers and humans to the intricate tech and power dynamics, CM Tillman creates a world that’s both fascinating and believable.

But let’s talk about that ending. That cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal. I’m still reeling and already desperate for book two to see where this story goes next.

Why You’ll Love It:
✨ A slow-burn romance packed with tension
✨ Smart, layered world-building with plenty of twists
✨ A fierce, relatable heroine and a swoon-worthy Supe

If you’re into superhero stories with heart, heat, and plenty of drama, Gilded Hero will hit the spot. CM Tillman, please—bring on book two ASAP!

Enemies to lovers in a sci fi dark fantasy, easy to follow world building, with a face paced storyline; Gilded Hero was a great change of pace from the usual Romantasy books I have been reading. I didn’t know I needed to read something similar to The Boys until I read a couple pages.

The characters are fantastically written and the constant battle between right and wrong will make you have questions too. Not to mention the storyline has a realistic feel, making you wonder how our world would even react.

The two love interests have incredible chemistry despite being from different worlds. Lilly has anxiety and I personally couldn’t connect more when it comes to figuring out her place in the world. Her humour and attitude will sometimes have you laugh out loud, and she genuinely wants to change the world. Athos is funny and swoon worthy, but has some faults near the end that will leave you with plenty of emotions.

Potential Spoiler:

The ending made me a bit angry, but it setup for a great way to continue this into a series. Even though my heart is crushed, I would undoubtedly read it again and I hope there will be another book.
(Please, tell me there will be another book C.M Tillman!)


Just waiting on the Amazon review to post <3

This was a strong start to the Gilded Hero series, it had that feel that I was looking for and enjoyed in the fantasy romance novel. I was hooked from the first page and was glad everything flowed with the superhero world. CM TIllman wrote this well and left me wanting more.

When you are a human living in a world where superheroes are not so super, it is hard to believe that there could be one among them who truly believes there needs to be a change in how they behave. It was an ok story, a different idea of superheroes than we typically hear and that was refreshing but it wasn't riveting. I think the book's cover has nothing to do with the story and the title had me believing that the superhero in the story would have looked different or had metallurgy abilities.

Being a Marvel kid, I put too much pressure on stories about SUPERHEROES.

All in all, I did enjoy it and would recommend it to other readers.

Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and CM Tillman for providing me with the ARC edition of this book.

I am leaving this honest review voluntarily and without coercion.

This surprised me in the best way.
I was sold at “The Boys” because who doesn’t love that show? I don’t think I’ve ever read a Superhero book before but this was just so good, I’m so glad I got this! Lilly and Athos has undeniable chemistry and the banter was fantastic!

I can’t wait for the next one, truly!

Oh my gosh?? I am unwell?? I need about 100 more pages after that ending please! The witty banter, the dialogue, how the characters acted human and were morally grey - excellent storytelling. Reminded me of Invincible on Prime. I just need to know they're going to get a happily ever after. I know this is cliché, but it's a visceral need to have book 2 ASAP!

Just nit picky stuff - I found about 20+ grammatical errors, just a little distracting towards the end. I will say though, incredible storytelling. Sign me up to be an ARC reader for book 2!

*Huge thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing & author for allowing me to read and review!*

Gilded Hero by @c.mtillman 💥
4.25/5 ⭐️

“Not all heroes are what they seem.”

This ARC really took me by surprise! I was sucked into this world so fast and was instantly drawn to both main characters. Being a fan of “The Boys” tv show and “My Hero Academia” anime, I was super excited to read a hero sci-fi fantasy with some *spice*!

Our FMC Lillium is such a girl boss with some trauma from her past - leading her to dislike Supers and what they stand for. Our MMC Athos is a centuries-old Super with the powers of flight, speed and indestructibility with a huge heart and golden retriever personality. The dynamics between these two and the growth that they go through together makes me root for them SO much. Starting out with a random one night stand to coworkers trying to start a company to better the world, to friends, to more than friends…? The two of them go through so much with the help of some friends, Supers & humans, even so much as to save the entire world!

I was dead set on this having a happy ending, but there was no ending at all, just completely leaving us readers hanging to waste away, trying to comprehend what’s going on with Lillium & Athos relationship, which will set up perfectly for HOPEFULLY the next book.

I loved the technology & gadgets that were introduced in this world, as well as the animosity between Supers & humans and them trying to coexist in this world.

Overall, I was so entertained by this. I wouldn’t specifically agree with this being a “dark fantasy”, and I do wish there was more romance/spice between our main characters, but I have a feeling that this is only the beginning of their story!

Mini Review:
CM Tillman has shattered my soul. One moment, I’m swooning, the next my heart is in pieces. The slow burn, agonising. The twists? Devastating. I’m wrecked—in the best way.


😶‍🌫️Gilded Hero by CM Tillman😶‍🌫️

Absolutely shooketh! CM Tillman didn’t just take my heart — oh no — they cradled it, made me fall in love, and then yeeted it straight to the ground, stomped on it, and shoved it back in my chest like, “you’ll be alright”. Spoiler: I am not fine. Would I read it again? Um, yes, obviously!

If you’re into magic systems, strong (and delightfully stubborn) FMC’s, and plot twists that hurt so good you’re begging for the next book, then this is your next obsession!

The story introduces a fascinating magic system where Supers, aka “Supes”, have powers and are basically treated like celebrities and literal gods among us mere mortals. Sounds cool, right? Not to Lily. She’s a fiery, no-nonsense FMC who hates Supes with a passion (For reasons you’ll just have to read to find out 😉).

Enter: A one-night stand. She tried to sneak out in the morning, only to get caught by the handsome stranger who, surprise, isn’t just a regular guy — he’s a freaking Supe. Oops. Drama, anyone?

Humans have trial jobs until they’re 25 years old, at which point they choose a career or let the state decide for them. Lily’s trying to figure out when she comes up with a brilliant idea…nope. You will have to just read the book to find out what it is, trust me, it’s worth it!

And let’s talk about the romance, the slow burn, chef’s kiss. It’s so agonisingly good that the heartbreak 💔 hits so much harder! The spice is lighter than I’m used to, but honestly it pays off with the tension and build up.

My Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/out of 5
🌶️🌶️/out of 5

What are you still doing here? Go pre-order the book and prepare for your heart to be shattered in the best way possible. Your Welcome!

Additional Notes:
- I will also post on the following platforms
Instagram: 26.12.2024
Website: 01.01.2025

This book had me at the edge of my seat and gripping my Kindle. Just yesterday and today, I read the last 80% of it. I flew through those pages.
I was rooting for the protagonist and wanted everything to go well for her. I enjoyed the flirting between the main characters, it was so fun. The story had lots of up and downs that kept me guessing what else would go wrong and if it could be fixed. I just.... ugh. My emotions are mush.

In a genre currently saturated by fae and dragons, this futuristic superhero adventure was a breath of fresh air. The world building and lore was really fascinating and has an endless potential of stories. I applaud the author for making me invested in, not only the main characters, but all the side ones that are introduced as well.

All that being said, I’m finding it very hard to settle on a rating after reading the very end. Which means this story has given me a lot to think about. I’m not even sure if I'm rating it based on the flow of the story or how it made me feel. Very rage rant worthy and opinion inducing. And what better way for you to see what I’m talking about, than to read for yourself and join me on this journey.

Did you love The Boys but wish there was more romance? Then Gilded Hero might be the perfect read for you.

I’ve explored worlds full of fairies, shapeshifters, monsters, aliens, and all sorts of supernatural beings—but this is my first superhero romance. And it did not disappoint.

In a world where superheroes are revered like celebrities, what’s left for regular humans who dream of making a difference? Lillium, the protagonist, refuses to settle for a mundane life. While others worship the Supers, she sees them for what they truly are—mysterious figures who only seem to help when the stakes are high enough. But she wants more than just a job. She wants to change the world.

After an unexpected one-night stand with Athos, a charismatic and powerful Super, Lillium figures it’s a night she’d rather forget. However, Athos isn’t so easily dismissed. With his super strength, ability to fly, and a smile that could melt anyone’s heart, Athos has everything—except fame. And when they decide to join forces for mutual benefit, things quickly spiral out of control, bringing them into the dangerous, secretive world of the Supers.

Can a human and a Super truly work together, or will the other heroes destroy their partnership?

The plot had me hooked from the very beginning. The transition from a one-night stand to friends (and business partners) was an intriguing twist that kept me turning the pages. The ending leaves you eagerly awaiting more, and I’m excited to see where this story goes next.

Thank you to CM Tillman and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a really interesting take on superhero lore. People with powered, or Super powers, are called Supers in this society. They're basically famous and live in their own little world, helping only themselves and ignoring the humans.

Lillium is just trying to survive and figure out what she wants to do with her life, or if she will let the state decide for her. Avoiding it all, she ends up working with Athos, a Super that she met in a one night stand, and doing the menial jobs for people that the other Supers won't do.

As they work together the other Supers catch on and decide that they don't want him getting attention or credit, and it ends up being an all out battle for their lives. Will they be able to reach peace?

From the moment I read the dedication page I knew I was going to like this book. If you loved the show The Boys you are going to love this book!

Tillman does a great job building a unique world where Supers are revered by the humans they strive to share the world with. However not all humans are satisfied with the status quo, Lilly the FMC is looking for more. Lilly is pulled in to the secret world of supers by her charming one night stand, Athos, who also happens to be a super.

The story was entertaining and kept me coming back to find out what was going to happen next. The character development was good, and I could really relate with the anxiety Lilly was managing. The slow burn, enemies to friends to lovers relationship was great and the small amount of spice sprinkled in worked well with the overall story. Honestly, Athos and Lilly’s banter had me torn between laughter and anger all the way up to the end. Sometimes I couldn’t tell if they were enemies or lovers. And let’s not even talk about that ending! Even though I kind of saw it coming I still wasn’t ready for it, I NEED to know what happens next!

Overall I would definitely recommend giving this book a try when it releases January 2, 2025!

This was such a good book i was actually SO surprised how much i loved it!! I was laughing at so many parts in this book and i really enjoyed the wonderful representation for mental health throughout this book! I could not put this book down and i highly recommend everyone to read it so i can yap with everyone about it!

Lilly was such an interesting character but i also really connected with her and the anxiety she had. The character development throughout this book was gorgeous and the writing was so good! The spice was done really good as well and im glad it only played a small part in the plot.

I NEED the second book!!

𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:

Oh my goodness, this book totally took my heart and gave it a joyful squeeze! Honestly, if you loved show “The Boys”, you’re going to find a new best friend in this book.

From the first page, I was swept away into a world where superheroes zip through the skies and humans are just trying not to trip over their capes!

CM Tillman creates a vibrant universe where Supers reign supreme, leaving regular folks like Lily scrambling for their place. The humor is sharp, and the dialogue flows with a natural wit that kept me giggling through every chapter. Lily is such a relatable character, her struggles in a world filled with dazzling heroes made me cheer for her every step of the way.

Now let’s talk about Athos…oh Athos!
He’s charming and swoon-worthy, and let’s just say, after reading about his one-night stand with Lily, I might have needed a fan to cool down! Their chemistry is electric, and the funny banter between them had me laughing out loud. I’ve got to admit, I was secretly cheering for their success, even if it meant a few bumps and heroic fails along the way.

What I loved most was how Tillman played with the idea of fame and success in this unique world. The plot twists had me grinning like a Cheshire cat! Just when I thought I had it all figured out, something unexpected happened, and I was flipping pages faster than my dog can chase his tail.

I can’t share too much since this is an ARC, but let me tell you, I was on the edge of my seat as the plot unfolded. There are surprising twists and turns that will have you gasping and laughing in equal measure.

If you’re looking for a book that’ll make you laugh, swoon, and maybe even warm your soul, grab this book when it drops on January 2, 2025. I promise you won’t regret it!