A review by kehau
Powerful by Lauren Roberts

5.0

Every once in a while, a novella comes along that completely shatters your preconceived notions about short stories. Powerful by Lauren Roberts is that novella. I typically shy away from novellas, but this story was an absolute revelation, earning a well-deserved 5-star rating from me.

From the very first page, Roberts crafts a tale so captivating that I was immediately hooked. The romance is exquisite, beautifully woven into the narrative without veering into smutty territory. It’s the kind of romance that makes your heart flutter, built on genuine connection and emotional depth. The banter between the characters is top tier, sparking with wit and charm, making me laugh out loud more times than I can count.

Adena, the heart and soul of this story, is a character I didn’t expect to connect with so deeply. Her journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, and Roberts has done a phenomenal job of peeling back the layers of her character to reveal a depth that is both unexpected and profoundly moving. The connection I felt with Adena was palpable, making every high and low she experienced feel intensely personal.

Powerful is a rollercoaster of emotions. I laughed, swooned, and yes, I bawled my eyeballs out. The emotional resonance of this novella is astonishing, and it’s a testament to Roberts’ skill as a writer that she can evoke such a range of feelings in such a short span. The story was perfectly executed, keeping me on the edge of my seat and making it impossible to put the book down because I knew what was to come for Adena.

As I turned the last page, my anticipation for Reckless reached fever pitch. Lauren Roberts has proven herself to be an incredible author, one whose work I will eagerly devour without a second thought. Powerful is not just a novella; it’s a masterpiece of storytelling, and I am beyond excited to see what Roberts has in store next.

If you haven’t yet picked up Powerful, do yourself a favor and dive in. It’s a compelling, heartwarming, and utterly unforgettable read that will leave you craving more from the talented Lauren Roberts. This novella is a shining example of how powerful short stories can be, and I cannot recommend it highly enough.