Powerless

BY: Lauren Roberts

Hey guys! I just finished reading the first Powerless book and yes, I can see why so many people simp over Kai Azer. Like, I love him! If you love high-stakes fantasy, enemies-to-lovers romance, and a heroine fighting against all odds, then Powerless by Lauren Roberts is a book you HAVE to read! This book is full of action, tension, and slow-burn romance. I’m not a hater of slow burn romances but I’m not really fan. Well, I WAS not a fan. I’m not a Slow-Burn Number 1 Fan but I don’t dislike it as much as I did.

About the Book

In a world where the powerful rule and the powerless don’t stand a chance, Powerless follows Paedyn Gray, a girl without abilities in a society where magic determines everything. To survive, she fakes being an Elite, hiding in plain sight. But when she catches the attention of the ruthless prince, Kai, she is forced into the deadly Purging Trials—a competition where only the strongest survive.

As the trials unfold, Paedyn and Kai’s interactions spark with tension, challenge, and undeniable chemistry. But deception is a dangerous game, and one wrong move could mean death.

With its fast-paced storytelling, intriguing world-building, and swoon-worthy romance, Powerless is a thrilling read for YA fantasy fans.

Clean Content & Age Recommendation

• Spice Rating: 🌶🌶/5 
• Violence: Not really much (but don’t trust me on this one because I read much more violent books)
• Romance: Enemies-to-lovers tension, intense chemistry, and romantic moments that stay within YA boundaries

This book had me kicking my feet and squealing because the banter was soooo cuteeeee!!

Characters:

Paedyn “This is a stupid way to die” Gray:

Paedyn Gray is AMAZING. She is so PERFECT (as perfect as kai azer). Like “She’s a ten but…. there’s no but. SHES A TEN.” And honestly, she’s the reason this grew in me: “The feminine urge to walk into a full ballroom in a tailored evening gown with a dagger strapped to my thigh.” But overall, she’s just amazing. I love her! So real though: “Born to be a silver haired girl who can pull to princes. Forced to be a girl who pulls push doors.” -_- I feel attacked.

Kai “oh darling, as long as you think I’m pretty I don’t give a damn what I look like” Azer

THIS MAN IS PERFECT. IF U DON’T THINK HE IS, FIGHT ME. honestly like…

Kai when he’s drunk >>>

Kai in Kai’s POV >>>

Kai in Paedyn’s POV >>>

Kai when he’s talking about Paedyn >>>

Kai when he’s with his brother >>>

Kai when he steals Paedyn from Kitt >>>

When Kai >>>

Kai is just perfect and if anyone thinks he isn’t they can leave. Why be stressed and depressed when you can be Kai Azer Obsessed!? The fact that he’s just words on paper destroys me 😭😔.

Things I loved

• Enemies-to-Lovers: If you love slow-burn romance with banter, tension, and characters challenging each other, this one is great!
• High-Stakes Trials: Think The Hunger Games meets Red Queen—survival is key, and there’s plenty of action.
• Morally Gray Characters: Kai is a prince with secrets, and Paedyn is a survivor willing to do what it takes. Their dynamic is filled with a lot of banter.

Final Thoughts

Powerless is an addictive YA fantasy with a strong female lead, a thrilling competition, and a romance filled with sparks and danger. If you love books like The Selection but want something with more action, this is the perfect pick!  5/ 5 stars – A must-read for YA fantasy lovers who crave action, intrigue, and a swoon-worthy romance!

Favorite Quotes:

“The biggest weapon a woman has at her disposal is that she is always underestimated.” – Paedyn Gray (AGREED)

“Every girl deserves something equally as pretty and deadly as they are.” – Kai Azer (ALSO AGREED)

“Bow at my feet with a sneer, if you must. I won’t see it with you face to the ground.” – Paedyn Gray (SHE ATE AND LEFT NO CRUMBS)

And yeah! Thats the end of this review! I really loved this book and can’t wait to start Reckless!

XOXO

Aaradhyaa

#SilverSavior