Simon & Schuster Children's Books swoops for two novellas from 'extraordinary' Lauren Roberts

Simon & Schuster Children’s Books has swooped for two novellas, including the "sizzling" romance Powerful: A Powerless Story, by Lauren Roberts. 

Editorial director Yasmin Morrissey acquired world rights from Lloyd Jassin. Powerful will be published simultaneously in the UK and US on 11th April and will be supported by a "wide-reaching, digital-first campaign with innovative and content-rich activity". 

Set in the Kingdom of Ilya, Powerful is a "must-read" for readers of Roberts’ YA romantasy Powerless (Simon & Schuster), which has now been sold in 18 languages. 

The synopsis for Powerful reads: "Adena has always thought of Paedyn as a sister. They found each other when they were young, protected each other, and built a home together 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. When she is caught stealing, a mysterious man from the market comes to her rescue. Mak has a more shadowy past and power than is usual for the low-level Elites of Loot. And as the pair team up to save their loved ones from the Trials, the quest tests their loyalty, their love and their lives." 

Morrissey commented: "Lauren Roberts is one of the most exciting YA authors writing right now, and we are thrilled to be supercharging her growth in the market. I feel very lucky to work with Lauren – she is an extraordinary talent and master of her craft when it comes to romantasy. Each book is becoming more compelling than the last." 

Roberts added: "When approached with the opportunity to write two more stories for this trilogy, it was difficult not to jump for joy. I am absolutely thrilled about adding to this world I love so dearly, and it is truly an honour to delve deeper into the characters who deserve their own stories. I am so thankful for the team at S&S, who not only believe in my work but do everything they can to get it out into the world. These novellas hold a special place in my heart, and I hope that readers will soon be able to say the same."