Powerless by Lauren Roberts

Living a Lie, Fighting for Survival

Let me tell you, Powerless by Lauren Roberts was a rollercoaster ride. I devoured this book in a weekend, completely hooked by the world of Ilya, a place where everyone has a power – except Paedyn.

I connected instantly with Pae, the main character. Living as an "Ordinary" in a society obsessed with abilities felt suffocating, and I could practically feel her constant fear of exposure. The way she used her sharp mind and keen observation to fake psychic abilities was both thrilling and nerve-wracking.

Then there's Kai. Oh, Kai. This brooding enforcer with a mysterious past had me swooning one minute and wanting to shake him the next. Their slow-burn romance simmered beneath the constant danger, adding a layer of delicious tension to the story.

The trial system in Ilya was brutal, a Hunger Games-esque competition with gorgeous prose. While predictable at times, the twists and turns kept me guessing. The world-building, though not super in-depth, felt real and gritty, leaving me wanting to know more about the different powers and the rebellion brewing in the shadows.

Here's the thing: Powerless isn't perfect. Some of the side characters felt a bit flat, and the plot borrowed elements from other dystopian novels {Red Queen and Hunger Games, to be specific]. But Pae's determination and resourcefulness, coupled with the simmering romance, made it a thoroughly enjoyable read. If you're looking for a fast-paced adventure with a strong female lead and a hint of forbidden love, Powerless definitely deserves a spot on your bookshelf. Just be prepared to stay up way too late turning those pages!