Powerful (The Powerless Trilogy #1.5) – Lauren Roberts

Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy
Publisher: Simon & Schuster 
Pages: 192
Release Date: April 11, 2024

Haven’t read the previous novel, Powerless? Check out my review HERE!

Adena and Paedyn have always been inseparable. Fate brought them together when they were young, but friendship ensured they would always protect each other and the home they built in the slums of Loot. But now Paedyn—an Ordinary—has been selected for the Purging Trials, which means almost certain death.

Now alone in Loot, Adena must fend for herself. After attempting to steal, she’s rescued by a mysterious man from the market. Mak’s shadowy past and secretive power set him apart from the other low-level Elites of Loot. And as the pair team up to see their loved ones before the Trials, the quest tests their loyalty, their love, and their lives.

I honestly forgot what happened at the end of Powerless, so the ending of Powerful was quite the surprise.

Powerful follows Adena, Pae’s best friend, as she navigates the world while Pae participates in the Trials. Adena meets Mak and they devise a plan to sneak into the palace.

There was an instant attraction between Adena and Mak, though it wasn’t as powerful as it could have been. Powerful is a very short novella that could have used a couple more chapters to expand on Adena and Mak’s burgeoning relationship. 

Overall, Powerful was a quick and heartbreaking read that helped remind me what happened in Powerless. I’m even more excited for Reckless.

Have you read Powerful? What did you think?