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Duplex: A Micropowers Novel
New York Times bestselling author
Hugo and Nebula Award–winning author
When Ryan’s crush, Bizzy Horvat, moves into the other half of his family’s duplex, he is swept up into a world of micropotents and micropowers. It becomes Ryan’s job to protect Bizzy from people who want to kill her.
Ryan wakes up to find his contractor dad building walls to turn their big old house into a duplex. The family that moves into the other side includes Bizzy Horvat, the pretty girl he has a crush on at school. Bizzy claims her mother is a witch with the power to curse people with clumsiness or, in Bizzy’s case, astonishing beauty.
When a bee gets caught in Bizzy’s hair, Ryan acts so quickly and radically to save her from getting stung that he attracts the attention of a group of micropotents—people with micropowers. He soon realizes that Bizzy and her mother also have such powers. It becomes Ryan’s job, with the help of the other micropotents, to protect the Horvats from a group of witch hunters from their native country, who are determined to kill Bizzy, her mother, and all the other “witches”—micropotents—who have gathered to protect them.
Hugo and Nebula Award–winning author
When Ryan’s crush, Bizzy Horvat, moves into the other half of his family’s duplex, he is swept up into a world of micropotents and micropowers. It becomes Ryan’s job to protect Bizzy from people who want to kill her.
Ryan wakes up to find his contractor dad building walls to turn their big old house into a duplex. The family that moves into the other side includes Bizzy Horvat, the pretty girl he has a crush on at school. Bizzy claims her mother is a witch with the power to curse people with clumsiness or, in Bizzy’s case, astonishing beauty.
When a bee gets caught in Bizzy’s hair, Ryan acts so quickly and radically to save her from getting stung that he attracts the attention of a group of micropotents—people with micropowers. He soon realizes that Bizzy and her mother also have such powers. It becomes Ryan’s job, with the help of the other micropotents, to protect the Horvats from a group of witch hunters from their native country, who are determined to kill Bizzy, her mother, and all the other “witches”—micropotents—who have gathered to protect them.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2023
50 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Orson Scott Card
611 books20.7k followersOrson Scott Card is an American writer known best for his science fiction works. He is (as of 2023) the only person to have won a Hugo Award and a Nebula Award in consecutive years, winning both awards for his novel Ender's Game (1985) and its sequel Speaker for the Dead (1986). A feature film adaptation of Ender's Game, which Card co-produced, was released in 2013. Card also wrote the Locus Fantasy Award-winning series The Tales of Alvin Maker (1987–2003).
Card's fiction often features characters with exceptional gifts who make difficult choices with high stakes. Card has also written political, religious, and social commentary in his columns and other writing; his opposition to homosexuality has provoked public criticism.
Card, who is a great-great-grandson of Brigham Young, was born in Richland, Washington, and grew up in Utah and California. While he was a student at Brigham Young University (BYU), his plays were performed on stage. He served in Brazil as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and headed a community theater for two summers. Card had 27 short stories published between 1978 and 1979, and he won the John W. Campbell Award for best new writer in 1978. He earned a master's degree in English from the University of Utah in 1981 and wrote novels in science fiction, fantasy, non-fiction, and historical fiction genres starting in 1979. Card continued to write prolifically, and he has published over 50 novels and 45 short stories.
Card teaches English at Southern Virginia University; he has written two books on creative writing and serves as a judge in the Writers of the Future contest. He has taught many successful writers at his "literary boot camps". He remains a practicing member of the LDS Church and Mormon fiction writers Stephenie Meyer, Brandon Sanderson, and Dave Wolverton have cited his works as a major influence.
Card's fiction often features characters with exceptional gifts who make difficult choices with high stakes. Card has also written political, religious, and social commentary in his columns and other writing; his opposition to homosexuality has provoked public criticism.
Card, who is a great-great-grandson of Brigham Young, was born in Richland, Washington, and grew up in Utah and California. While he was a student at Brigham Young University (BYU), his plays were performed on stage. He served in Brazil as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and headed a community theater for two summers. Card had 27 short stories published between 1978 and 1979, and he won the John W. Campbell Award for best new writer in 1978. He earned a master's degree in English from the University of Utah in 1981 and wrote novels in science fiction, fantasy, non-fiction, and historical fiction genres starting in 1979. Card continued to write prolifically, and he has published over 50 novels and 45 short stories.
Card teaches English at Southern Virginia University; he has written two books on creative writing and serves as a judge in the Writers of the Future contest. He has taught many successful writers at his "literary boot camps". He remains a practicing member of the LDS Church and Mormon fiction writers Stephenie Meyer, Brandon Sanderson, and Dave Wolverton have cited his works as a major influence.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
April 9, 2025
A Power for Love
When a fifteen-year-old boy meets a fifteen-year-old girl, the spark of love is not unexpected. All the more so because these are two incredibly bright and well-educated souls. But there have to be obstacles … required in a good love story.
But what obstacles! Unique powers and intense curses. A witch hunt crossing cultures, morality, and ages…with life-threatening danger and resultant peril and action. All embedded in family issues and coming-of-age knowledge not gleaned from textbooks.
The story invites many theoretical, philosophical, and generational thoughts and food for discussion (fantasy as well as reality).
While the characters sometimes exceed believability, they are likable and you root for them from the start, growing with them and feeling their fervor and pain.
Worth the read—their powers are micro, not super; their journey, a winding, twisted road to maturity and an exploration of love.
When a fifteen-year-old boy meets a fifteen-year-old girl, the spark of love is not unexpected. All the more so because these are two incredibly bright and well-educated souls. But there have to be obstacles … required in a good love story.
But what obstacles! Unique powers and intense curses. A witch hunt crossing cultures, morality, and ages…with life-threatening danger and resultant peril and action. All embedded in family issues and coming-of-age knowledge not gleaned from textbooks.
The story invites many theoretical, philosophical, and generational thoughts and food for discussion (fantasy as well as reality).
While the characters sometimes exceed believability, they are likable and you root for them from the start, growing with them and feeling their fervor and pain.
Worth the read—their powers are micro, not super; their journey, a winding, twisted road to maturity and an exploration of love.
November 14, 2024
A great and compassionate author with a story that goes no where
I’ve always liked Orson Scott card, and beyond the obvious Enders game. The other books in the series weren’t bad either even though they did some soul-searching, but these last two books, focus almost entirely on soul-searching and angst in a truly unrealistic world with no real plot development. The main character‘s father seems like a takeoff on an Ayn Rand character from Atlas shrugged. Nobody has any trouble with an underage boy, pledging his undying love and life and health for a random girl, they’re just all glad he’s willing to sacrifice his life for her, even his parents, etc., etc. if you read the first three pages of the book and the last three pages you essentially miss nothingand that’s the problem I had overall with both this book in the first book
I’ve always liked Orson Scott card, and beyond the obvious Enders game. The other books in the series weren’t bad either even though they did some soul-searching, but these last two books, focus almost entirely on soul-searching and angst in a truly unrealistic world with no real plot development. The main character‘s father seems like a takeoff on an Ayn Rand character from Atlas shrugged. Nobody has any trouble with an underage boy, pledging his undying love and life and health for a random girl, they’re just all glad he’s willing to sacrifice his life for her, even his parents, etc., etc. if you read the first three pages of the book and the last three pages you essentially miss nothingand that’s the problem I had overall with both this book in the first book
February 3, 2024
A lot more than I expected
No real expectations coming into this, although I was looking forward to an enjoyable read, but the depth, humour, and intensity of the characters was much more than I expected. Obviously a young adult novel, but plenty to appreciate for someone of any age. Thououghly enjoyed the book and now need to go back and read the first micropowers novel. Hoping it will be just as good, and that maybe one day there will be more to tell about Ryan and Bizzy.
No real expectations coming into this, although I was looking forward to an enjoyable read, but the depth, humour, and intensity of the characters was much more than I expected. Obviously a young adult novel, but plenty to appreciate for someone of any age. Thououghly enjoyed the book and now need to go back and read the first micropowers novel. Hoping it will be just as good, and that maybe one day there will be more to tell about Ryan and Bizzy.
February 2, 2024
Hard to put down!
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading, but found myself swiftly engrossed and entangled in this wonderful story! Very hard to put down... Only a flat battery on my ereader made me put it down for the night.
An intensely imagined work of art that left me hopeful and heartbroken by the end... Looking forward to the next book!
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started reading, but found myself swiftly engrossed and entangled in this wonderful story! Very hard to put down... Only a flat battery on my ereader made me put it down for the night.
An intensely imagined work of art that left me hopeful and heartbroken by the end... Looking forward to the next book!
abandoned
September 22, 2025Couldn’t finish. I hate abandoning books but this started feeling so disjointed. The idea of Bizzy’s micro power, the interaction between the dad and Ryan, the dialogue from Bizzy’s mom, … I couldn’t go on.
YMMV, but not for me.
YMMV, but not for me.
September 11, 2023
The concept of this series is strong but Card’s writing is inconsistent. Some scenes are engaging whereas others are forced and rushed. Also it feels a little out of touch for YA.
December 7, 2023
Lost & Found the characters were much more interesting in this book than Duplex. Would've liked Duplex to have the previous character interacting with new characters.
February 4, 2024
I thought this was going to further the Lost and Found story, but is about other micro powers.
May 24, 2025
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The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained
Duplex: A Micropowers Novel
By: Orson Scott Card
My Rating: FOUR out of FIVE Stars
Best For: 16 and up
Duplex: More Micropower Fun!
Orson Scott Card is back with another dive into the world of micropowers, and I was absolutely here for it! His unique take on (not) super powers was introduced in Lost and Found, which I enjoyed. Duplex isn't a sequal--it's set in the same world and time, introduces more micropowers, and has a tiny bit of character crossover. Duplex was a fun read too!
What is it about?
Ryan's life takes an unexpected turn when his family converts their large home into a duplex, and who moves into the other half? None other than Bizzy Horvat, his crush from school! But Bizzy brings more than just teenage butterflies into Ryan's world. She and her mother possess micropowers – Bizzy can turn herself into such a beauty that she can't go anywhere with out drawing attention or stopping traffic, and her mother has the power to induce clumsiness. When Ryan instinctively acts to protect Bizzy from a bee, he inadvertently attracts the attention of a secret group of micropotents. Soon, Ryan discovers he has his own micropower, and it quickly becomes his vital mission, with the help of other micropotents, to protect Bizzy and her mother from ruthless "witch hunters" determined to eradicate all those with these unique abilities. It's a story of growing up, discovering hidden potentials, and finding your place in a world far more complex than it seems.
What did I think?
It was fun! The micropowers OSC invents are silly and unique, and it was a blast to read the adventures they cause. The budding teen romance between Ryan and Bizzy was cute and age appropriate. It's a coming-of-age story wrapped in sci-fi and fantasy, complete with action, adventure, and even a touch of suspense.
Card's storytelling shines, weaving an interesting and unique tale with witty dialogue. His ability to craft compelling narratives around precocious child protagonists is on full display here. It's a reminder of Card at his best, using a fantastic element to draw the reader in while exploring important real-life issues like family relationships and responsibility.
My biggest wish, however, was for more crossover! After reading Lost and Found, I was really hoping for more characters from that original story to make an appearance here in Duplex. It's a minor complaint because the characters introduced in this story are likable and you'll find yourself rooting for them as they navigate intense challenges and explore the complexities of love and identity.
Sensitive Content:
* Mild language.
Should you read it?
If you're looking for an engaging story about unique abilities, first crushes, and learning to step up when danger calls, Duplex is a fantastic choice. It’s a compelling read that blends genres seamlessly. This dad says Duplex: A Micropowers Novel is best for 16 and up.
Happy Reading!
Find more One Man Book Club Reviews here!
The Value of a Star: Ratings Explained
Duplex: A Micropowers Novel
By: Orson Scott Card
My Rating: FOUR out of FIVE Stars
Best For: 16 and up
Duplex: More Micropower Fun!
Orson Scott Card is back with another dive into the world of micropowers, and I was absolutely here for it! His unique take on (not) super powers was introduced in Lost and Found, which I enjoyed. Duplex isn't a sequal--it's set in the same world and time, introduces more micropowers, and has a tiny bit of character crossover. Duplex was a fun read too!
What is it about?
Ryan's life takes an unexpected turn when his family converts their large home into a duplex, and who moves into the other half? None other than Bizzy Horvat, his crush from school! But Bizzy brings more than just teenage butterflies into Ryan's world. She and her mother possess micropowers – Bizzy can turn herself into such a beauty that she can't go anywhere with out drawing attention or stopping traffic, and her mother has the power to induce clumsiness. When Ryan instinctively acts to protect Bizzy from a bee, he inadvertently attracts the attention of a secret group of micropotents. Soon, Ryan discovers he has his own micropower, and it quickly becomes his vital mission, with the help of other micropotents, to protect Bizzy and her mother from ruthless "witch hunters" determined to eradicate all those with these unique abilities. It's a story of growing up, discovering hidden potentials, and finding your place in a world far more complex than it seems.
What did I think?
It was fun! The micropowers OSC invents are silly and unique, and it was a blast to read the adventures they cause. The budding teen romance between Ryan and Bizzy was cute and age appropriate. It's a coming-of-age story wrapped in sci-fi and fantasy, complete with action, adventure, and even a touch of suspense.
Card's storytelling shines, weaving an interesting and unique tale with witty dialogue. His ability to craft compelling narratives around precocious child protagonists is on full display here. It's a reminder of Card at his best, using a fantastic element to draw the reader in while exploring important real-life issues like family relationships and responsibility.
My biggest wish, however, was for more crossover! After reading Lost and Found, I was really hoping for more characters from that original story to make an appearance here in Duplex. It's a minor complaint because the characters introduced in this story are likable and you'll find yourself rooting for them as they navigate intense challenges and explore the complexities of love and identity.
Sensitive Content:
* Mild language.
Should you read it?
If you're looking for an engaging story about unique abilities, first crushes, and learning to step up when danger calls, Duplex is a fantastic choice. It’s a compelling read that blends genres seamlessly. This dad says Duplex: A Micropowers Novel is best for 16 and up.
Happy Reading!
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews