Books Powerless Book by Lauren Roberts

"Powerless" by Lauren Roberts is a young adult dystopian fantasy set in the kingdom of Ilya, where only those with supernatural abilities—called Elites—are deemed worthy. The story follows Paedyn (Pae) Gray, a seventeen-year-old Ordinary (powerless person) who desperately tries to survive in the slums known as Loot Alley by pretending to be a psychic, hiding her lack of real powers.

After a devastating Plague years ago, survivors either gained extraordinary powers or remained powerless Ordinaries, who are now outcasts. King Edric has declared all Ordinaries unfit to live within the kingdom, leading to their banishment to a harsh desert region called the Scorches, with severe measures such as execution of any found within the kingdom.

Paedyn’s life changes drastically when she unintentionally saves a prince of Ilya, thrusting her into the dangerous Purging Trials, a brutal competition to prove the supremacy of the Elites. Here she faces lethal challenges, powerful opponents, and the risk of her secret being discovered—which could mean death. The plot also explores her complex relationship with Prince Kai, who is both her enemy and love interest, and the tension of hiding her true identity in a society built on power hierarchies.

Critics and readers highlight themes of survival, identity, social injustice, and rebellion. While some note similarities to dystopian classics like The Hunger Games, the book has been praised for its emotional depth, pacing, and strong female protagonist who relies on wit and courage rather than supernatural strength.

In summary, Powerless is a gripping, emotionally charged tale of an underdog’s fight against an oppressive society that defines worth by supernatural power, blending suspense, romance, and dystopian worldbuilding.

Key points:

Protagonist: Paedyn “Pae” Gray, a powerless Ordinary hiding as a psychic

Setting: Kingdom of Ilya, post-Plague society divided between Elites and Ordinaries

Conflict: Paedyn fights for survival in Purging Trials while concealing her Ordinary status

Themes: Power, identity, social stratification, survival, love, and rebellion

Genre: Young adult dystopian fantasy with elements of adventure and romance

This is the first book in The Powerless Trilogy, with sequels expanding on the rebellion and the fates of its characters.

1 BOOK