Welcome to Book Talk, the Lexington High School column where we dive into novels from various genres, from classics to fantasy.

Our first book review is Powerless by Lauren Roberts, the 2023 fantasy debut novel that has taken the internet by storm.

Powerless, the first book in the trilogy (followed by Reckless, Fearless, and accompaniment books Powerful and Fearful), is Roberts’ debut novel, written  when she was just 18 years old. This Young Adult fantasy takes place in a fictional world in the Kingdom of Ilya. Main character Paedyn is a powerless Ordinary in a world of magical Elites. While those with magical abilities live in luxury, Paedyn and all those who lack powers live in hiding in the slums. However, after rescuing one of the kingdom’s princes, Kai Azer, Paedyn is chosen to compete in the Purging Trials, a brutal contest that showcases the supernatural abilities of the kingdom’s most powerful Elites. Paedyn must hide her identity and wits to survive, and eventually find the courage to fight for a better life for the Ordinaries.

There have been several mixed reviews of this book since its publication in 2023. Some readers have fallen in love with the main protagonist, Paedyn for her resilience and fiery personality. Fans have also praised the engaging tension between Paedyn and other key characters. The book leans heavily on well-known tropes, such as the enemies-to-lovers aspect of the plot, which many readers adore. 

However, critics argue that there is an excessive emphasis on these tropes and not enough focus on world-building. Skeptics point out several underdeveloped characters and forgotten plotlines. Many even dislike the book for its unoriginality, as it shares very similar themes to other novels, including The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard.

So, what is the verdict on this YA fantasy novel?

There are definitely overhyped books in the reading community, and Powerless wasn’t exactly revolutionary like many have claimed. That being said, I do think it’s worth a read, not because it’s the best book ever written—I agree that it is very similar to other novels and it is quite heavy on the tropes—but simply for leisure. Along with the strong tension between the characters, it is passionate, cinematic, and engaging in a way that fans of similar novels will enjoy.

Powerless is a rich story following characters as they grapple with identity, self-worth, and confidence. Themes of finding true strength, appreciating all people no matter their differences, and fighting injustice and inequality are found throughout the novel. The characters in this book emphasize that one doesn’t need extraordinary abilities to make a change, just determination and the courage to try. 

Furthermore, the author of this book is proof that one can be successful even as a teenager, showing that it is never too early to start following one’s dreams. Powerless inspires readers, like those at LHS, that anyone can chase after their aspirations, regardless of age. At 18, Roberts started sharing her passion for writing on social media, gaining millions of followers who encouraged her to keep working on her ideas. At just 19 years old, she self-published this book and its immediate success caught the attention of Simon & Schuster, a major publisher.

So, the success of Powerless, regardless of whether it is a great work of literature or not, is inspiring for young writers and students – including those here at LHS – who have big goals and want to potentially make a difference in the world.