Reviews of Powerless by Lauren Roberts commend its compelling world-building and dynamic characters, with readers appreciating the novel’s imaginative setting and emotional depth. However, some critiques highlight pacing issues and predictability in the plot. Overall, the book is celebrated for its creativity and character development, despite occasional narrative flaws.

Fans of Powerless by Lauren Roberts are likely to enjoy past-paced, dystopian YA fiction with strong, resilient protagonists. Ideal for readers who appreciate the gripping dynamics of Veronica Roth’s Divergent series or Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games, this novel offers intense action and deep character development.

Powerless by Lauren Roberts is a young adult fantasy romance featuring Kai, a prince in a kingdom where the powerless are hunted, and Paedyn, a young woman who hides her lack of supernatural abilities by pretending to be psychic. Despite their differing upbringings, they develop a relationship that challenges societal views on hierarchy, power, and identity. Contains portrayals of physical and psychological abuse, graphic violence, murder, and discrimination.

Suspenseful / Dark / Mysterious / Challenging

**Paedyn Gray**  
An 18-year-old woman living in the slums, known for her cleverness and survival skills. She was once part of a wealthier society and carries her father's keepsakes, a dagger and ring.

**Malakai "Kai" Azer**  
The 19-year-old second-born son of the king, portrayed as powerful and arrogant with a rare combat ability. Kai's complex nature is revealed through his struggle between duty and personal desire.

**Kitt Azer**  
Kai's older brother and the crown prince, often compared to their father in temperament and leadership style. Kitt faces internal challenges as he seeks to shape his identity and future as king.

**Andrea "Andy" Vos**  
A shapeshifter who is Kai and Kitt’s cousin and uses her transformation ability during the Trials. Her playful nature is mixed with strategic instincts.

**Jax Shields**  
Adopted by the royal family, Jax is a Blink able to teleport and the youngest contestant in the Trials. His cheerful presence highlights his eagerness to prove himself.

**Blair Archer**  
A Telekinetic competitor, known for her beauty and cold demeanor. She comes from high society and frequently clashes with Paedyn.

**Ace Elway**  
An Illusionist who competes in the Trials, notorious for his arrogance and ambition. Ace's illusion abilities highlight his role as a cunning adversary.

**Braxton Hale**  
A Brawny characterized by his quiet observation and immense strength. His participation in the Trials is marked by his reserved nature.

**Hera Colt**  
A Veil from the Slums with the ability to become invisible. Her strategic mind aids her in navigating the initial Trials.

**Sadie Knox**  
A Cloner who can create duplicates of herself and is known for her intelligence and friendly demeanor. Sadie's thoughtful approach is evident in her interactions during the Trials.

Study Guide

Book Brief

Explore Powerless reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Book Brief Powerless

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Powerless and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Powerless Summary and Study Guide

Background

Powerless Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-8

Powerless Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-22

Powerless Chapters 9-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-39

Powerless Chapters 23-39 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 40-53

Powerless Chapters 40-53 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 54-Epilogue

Powerless Chapter 54-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Powerless Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Powerless Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Powerless Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Powerless Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Powerless Essay Topics

Book Club Questions

Powerless Book Club Questions

Lauren Roberts

Novel

Fiction

Guide

powerless-roberts

Powerless

Book Brief

Powerless

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Powerless?