Dan Ford’s Using Your Superpower is a wild ride through politics, spirituality, and human resilience. It follows Amelia Castro, an accomplished woman who is suddenly thrust into a new reality as the U.S. Secretary of State. What starts as a personal struggle with self-doubt quickly turns into an action-packed adventure, complete with abductions, political intrigue, and a deeper journey into the nature of empathy as a “superpower.” Alongside her trusted team, dubbed the Fearless Five, Amelia navigates a world where diplomacy is just as dangerous as battlefields, and where empathy, not force, might be the greatest weapon of all​.

One of the most engaging aspects of the book is how it portrays Amelia’s growth. At first, she’s unsure if she can handle the job. She’s a powerful businesswoman, sure, but politics? That’s a different beast. Her initial doubts manifest in some self-destructive behavior. It’s a low moment, but also a relatable one. Who hasn’t felt overwhelmed by the weight of expectation? Ford does a great job of making Amelia feel human, rather than some untouchable, hyper-competent protagonist.

The book’s spiritual angle is both thought-provoking and I felt, at times, a little heavy-handed. The idea that empathy is a “superpower” is compelling, Amelia and her team tackle conflicts not through brute force, but through understanding. This isn’t just feel-good rhetoric; it’s an active strategy. The novel weaves this idea into global politics, showing how traditional diplomacy often fails because it lacks real human connection​. However, there are moments where the message overshadows the plot somewhat, making the dialogue feel more like a philosophical lecture than an organic conversation. That said, when it works, it works well. The discussions between Amelia and her team, especially with David Stanford, are some of the best moments in the book.

The action and suspense keep the story moving at a brisk pace. From assassination attempts to covert missions, Using Your Superpower doesn’t lack excitement​. There’s even an element of science fiction and metaphysics, with characters experiencing time travel-like events and spiritual awakenings​. This blend of genres is ambitious and successful, though at times it stretches believability. If you’re someone who likes their political thrillers grounded in realism, this might not be your cup of tea. But if you enjoy stories that push the boundaries of reality, you’ll be hooked.

Using Your Superpower is a fascinating blend of political thriller, self-discovery, and philosophical exploration. It’s a book for readers who enjoy high-stakes diplomacy, strong female leads, and a touch of the mystical. If you liked The West Wing but wished it had a bit more metaphysical depth, this book is for you. The core message, empathy as a powerful force for change is one worth exploring. Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially for readers who enjoy a mix of action, reflection, and a touch of the extraordinary.

Pages: 317 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0DWZ695Z3