Books like Powerless by Lauren Cooper

In the kingdom of Ilya, Paedyn Gray is an Ordinary born into a world that prizes power. Trained to disguise herself as a psychic, she must survive the Purging Trials when an accidental act of heroism puts her—and a prince she loves—at risk.

When a wedding day disaster forces the narrator into a life‑changing road trip, she discovers that the hand‑hugging hockey star she’s admired in secret may be the only person who can pull her back from the brink.

A coming‑of‑age tale that follows teenage girls as they form bonds over shared love for books in a library setting, weaving in themes of friendship, English literature, and the lives of widowers.

**Set during the time of the New York Times bestseller Powerless, fan favorite Adena gets a story all her own in this captivating novella as she attempts to survive on the streets of Loot…and falls for a mysterious—and dangerous—Elite.** 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. This novella also includes a special extended teaser to Reckless—the exciting sequel to Powerless!