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Belladonna #2
Underground Royalty
Pinto’s life is in shambles. With Yahshi and Vell vanished and his fellow guardians turned against him, his only ally is Evaris. Together, they dig into the pasts of Pinto’s best friends, uncovering secrets that force him to question his loyalties.
Meanwhile, in the Underground hideout, Yahshi clashes with political leaders, Vell struggles to prove herself trustworthy, and Saunti faces a moral to commit murder or prevent one. Even in supposed safety, danger lurks in every tunnel.
As clocks tick down, tensions rise. The Underground can’t hide forever, but with the Force crumbling from within, they might have time to strike back. One bold move could turn the tide.
Meanwhile, in the Underground hideout, Yahshi clashes with political leaders, Vell struggles to prove herself trustworthy, and Saunti faces a moral to commit murder or prevent one. Even in supposed safety, danger lurks in every tunnel.
As clocks tick down, tensions rise. The Underground can’t hide forever, but with the Force crumbling from within, they might have time to strike back. One bold move could turn the tide.
476 pages, Paperback
Published May 11, 2025
5 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Mel Torrefranca
6 books480 followersMel Torrefranca is an award-winning author from the San Francisco Bay Area, now residing in the jungly mountains of Northern Thailand. Her books feature morally gray characters, bold endings, and a pinch of awkward humor. Mel discovered her passion for writing at the age of seven and published her debut novel Leaving Wishville before graduating from high school. She also drinks way too many lattes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
May 1, 2025
Yahshi told Pinto that he was blind to what was really going on, but Pinto struggles to believe his friend’s claims. Yet, he also refuses to believe Yahshi did what his superior claims he did. If Pinto wants to know the real truth, he will have to find it himself. Will he be able to find the needle of truth in a haystack full of lies?
Saunti works hard for the Underground, but he feels completely replaceable. He wants to change that. But every chance he takes is a risk, and he’s not experienced enough to know which risks are more acceptable than others. When his mother reveals the truth about Yahshi and the lies she’s told him, his entire life gets turned upside down.
Vell knows there’s no changing what she did. She doesn’t regret her actions, as Yahshi is worth it. There’s no turning back now, but the way forward is littered with question marks. Not just about her future, but their future together.
The story starts a few days before the end of the previous book, allowing us to see the events we’ve already experienced from a different angle. This allows some things to be set up before the big climax of the previous book and shows us just how much this event changes the lives of those involved. The choice of these new point of view characters is also interesting. What they all have in common is that they feel betrayed. Though the way they handle that betrayal is completely different. The betrayal changes who they are as characters, and their actions have major consequences for this entire world.
Pinto had a rather black and white vision about who the good guys and the bad guys were in the first book. His friends' words have planted seeds of doubt in his mind though. He comes to realize that good and evil might not be so easy to distinguish from each other as he once thought. As Pinto starts seeing the world from a different perspective, he finds himself overflowing with more questions than answers. And the advice he receives from one person challenges him to look deep within himself.
An interesting part of Saunti’s point of view is that, in the previous book we’ve only seen the world through the eyes of people in the Vakoi Empire. Now we get to see a whole new part of this interesting world: the former Atherus empire which was invaded and conquered by the Vakoi Empire. You can see through Saunti’s eyes how much worse daily life has become for the ordinary people there. This is why they are just waiting for the right time to free themselves of their shackles and strike back at their conquerors. Some are more open about their feelings than others though.
I’m not that big a fan of the romance genre, but Yahshi and Vell’s slow-burning romantic subplot is done pretty well here and it might not be the only romantic subplot in this book.
The characters are fleshed out really well. Pinto’s search for the truth is an interesting but complicated puzzle he needs to solve. Saunti's journey of self-discovery is very gripping. And the blossoming romances add another layer to the characters. The world-building is impressive, with a rich history and politics that elevate the plot. This second book in the series also explores powerful themes like loyalty, kindness, power, love and identity. It’s a very strong sequel that doesn’t end with a whimper but with a bang, and it builds up to what I’m sure will be a very satisfying finale for this trilogy.
Saunti works hard for the Underground, but he feels completely replaceable. He wants to change that. But every chance he takes is a risk, and he’s not experienced enough to know which risks are more acceptable than others. When his mother reveals the truth about Yahshi and the lies she’s told him, his entire life gets turned upside down.
Vell knows there’s no changing what she did. She doesn’t regret her actions, as Yahshi is worth it. There’s no turning back now, but the way forward is littered with question marks. Not just about her future, but their future together.
The story starts a few days before the end of the previous book, allowing us to see the events we’ve already experienced from a different angle. This allows some things to be set up before the big climax of the previous book and shows us just how much this event changes the lives of those involved. The choice of these new point of view characters is also interesting. What they all have in common is that they feel betrayed. Though the way they handle that betrayal is completely different. The betrayal changes who they are as characters, and their actions have major consequences for this entire world.
Pinto had a rather black and white vision about who the good guys and the bad guys were in the first book. His friends' words have planted seeds of doubt in his mind though. He comes to realize that good and evil might not be so easy to distinguish from each other as he once thought. As Pinto starts seeing the world from a different perspective, he finds himself overflowing with more questions than answers. And the advice he receives from one person challenges him to look deep within himself.
An interesting part of Saunti’s point of view is that, in the previous book we’ve only seen the world through the eyes of people in the Vakoi Empire. Now we get to see a whole new part of this interesting world: the former Atherus empire which was invaded and conquered by the Vakoi Empire. You can see through Saunti’s eyes how much worse daily life has become for the ordinary people there. This is why they are just waiting for the right time to free themselves of their shackles and strike back at their conquerors. Some are more open about their feelings than others though.
I’m not that big a fan of the romance genre, but Yahshi and Vell’s slow-burning romantic subplot is done pretty well here and it might not be the only romantic subplot in this book.
The characters are fleshed out really well. Pinto’s search for the truth is an interesting but complicated puzzle he needs to solve. Saunti's journey of self-discovery is very gripping. And the blossoming romances add another layer to the characters. The world-building is impressive, with a rich history and politics that elevate the plot. This second book in the series also explores powerful themes like loyalty, kindness, power, love and identity. It’s a very strong sequel that doesn’t end with a whimper but with a bang, and it builds up to what I’m sure will be a very satisfying finale for this trilogy.
May 12, 2025
It's not every day that I read a book that destroys me so much that I go from laughing at the insanely dark humor to gasping to tearing up and then promptly calling up a friend to rant about the entire thing because I'm in such dire emotional distress, all within the span of 2 hours. But this book did all those things and more.
From a writer perspective, I'm obsessed with how Torrefranca pulled this off. My little reader heart, on the other hand, is absolutely crushed.
The shining point of this series is its characters. Don't get me wrong, the worldbuilding is unique enough without the usage of magic, and this book in particular highlights the Underground rebel group in a way that serves to build on the overarching stakes. But even more so, this new perspective this book offers—both in new POVs & settings—builds tension between the characters themselves. In a time of war, where violence is rampant, their relationships, loyalties, and values are put to the test in so many ways. The friendships & relationships they’ve forged in both the first book and the start of this one make the matter so much more complicated, especially when Yahshi & Vell find themselves on opposite sides of the war from their fellow Academy graduates.
This book also brought romance into the series—and some pretty tough situations to go with it. To what extent do you go to protect the person you love when your very livelihood, and all you’ve ever known, is on the line? Mel doesn’t just touch on this, but delves into the mixed emotions of a couple facing the costs of their romance. It added a layer of depth to a trope that’s somewhat overdone, and I appreciated that. The characters were never one-dimensional, but fully fleshed out beings with values and traumas of their own, and seeing yourself in every single one of them makes every scene hit all the more harder emotionally.
Overall, I went into this book with high expectations, and I was not disappointed. It’s one of those books that’s insanely complex and completely takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, diverting from anything you’d ever expect, but still manages to be deep and thought-provoking. Would recommend!
(Special thanks to Lost Island Press for a digital advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own)
From a writer perspective, I'm obsessed with how Torrefranca pulled this off. My little reader heart, on the other hand, is absolutely crushed.
The shining point of this series is its characters. Don't get me wrong, the worldbuilding is unique enough without the usage of magic, and this book in particular highlights the Underground rebel group in a way that serves to build on the overarching stakes. But even more so, this new perspective this book offers—both in new POVs & settings—builds tension between the characters themselves. In a time of war, where violence is rampant, their relationships, loyalties, and values are put to the test in so many ways. The friendships & relationships they’ve forged in both the first book and the start of this one make the matter so much more complicated, especially when Yahshi & Vell find themselves on opposite sides of the war from their fellow Academy graduates.
This book also brought romance into the series—and some pretty tough situations to go with it. To what extent do you go to protect the person you love when your very livelihood, and all you’ve ever known, is on the line? Mel doesn’t just touch on this, but delves into the mixed emotions of a couple facing the costs of their romance. It added a layer of depth to a trope that’s somewhat overdone, and I appreciated that. The characters were never one-dimensional, but fully fleshed out beings with values and traumas of their own, and seeing yourself in every single one of them makes every scene hit all the more harder emotionally.
Overall, I went into this book with high expectations, and I was not disappointed. It’s one of those books that’s insanely complex and completely takes you on an emotional rollercoaster, diverting from anything you’d ever expect, but still manages to be deep and thought-provoking. Would recommend!
(Special thanks to Lost Island Press for a digital advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own)
May 9, 2025
This book. Wow. Prepare yourselves to be utterly wrecked.
The ending left me speechless. I don’t know that I’ve ever loved a cast of characters this much. Part of me was mad about the way things ended. However, after some pondering, I decided I was actually impressed that a book broke me a little. That doesn’t happen often. So…yay?
But really, I can’t praise this sequel enough. The plot of the emerging war is very interesting, but the characters were what really made it for me, so I’ll focus on them.
Pinto, who gets a bigger spotlight in Book 2, had the most tragic and amazing character development—you love him and you hate him. I adored Evaris because she’s so intriguing, complex, and sweet. Saunti’s personality is stellar, and his moral dilemmas were thought-provoking. And, of course, we have Vell. I think we all know Vell is wonderful.
The side characters are excellent, too. Yahshi takes a backseat, but I enjoyed seeing him interact with the Underground after his arc in Book 1. Aero, who we briefly met before, gets even more page time. Her friendship with Vell is the sweetest, and I just adore her as a whole. Podge and Kwinn’s characters give us an upbeat, lighthearted duo who are comical when placed in the same room as Saunti’s dry sarcasm.
On the Force’s end of the plot, my favorite side character was Keiyo. He has such an honest internal conflict, swaying between crumbling under his fear of authority and taking a stand for what he knows is right. Quax isn’t as involved, but we still get a few moments with him that give me hope for his development in Book 3. Then there’s one other character, a former trainee, whose return is absolutely crushing.
Another part I really enjoyed in UNDERGROUND ROYALTY was the romance. We get to see the most wholesome, adorable moments with Vell and Yahshi. (And can I just scream over how there’s that chapter in Book 1 titled “Tell Her” and then there’s a chapter in Book 2 titled “TELL HIM”??? It’s spectacular.)
The other romantic pair in Book 2 is Pinto and Evaris. Y’all, EvarPin is beautiful and horrible and wonderful and so many other things. Pinto does fumble hard a couple times, but you know, what else can we expect from his stickler personality? *evil laughs to those who know* I had to say that. It’s part of my post-Book 2 therapy.
Adding in a forbidden romance layer was a great choice for their plotline. I would’ve been far less hooked if it was just Pinto and Evaris solving a puzzle I already knew the answer to. Their unfolding love story kept me glued to the page.
Lastly, the prose. I typically don’t talk about writing style in book reviews because it’s not something I care a ton about. However, the prose in this series is gorgeous. Mel Torrefranca’s writing feels fresh and unique. She weaves these phrases throughout the story that are wonderful in it of themselves, but then they return at the most beautiful and gut-wrenching moments. They’ll either leave you screaming or speechless.
To finish this off, UNDERGROUND ROYALTY was everything. Stakes rise, characters are deepened, and the final chapter leaves you on the most heartbreaking cliffhanger. I am both terrified and on pins and needles to find out how this story ends.
*many thanks to Lost Island Press and Mel Torrefranca for the free copy after beta reading!
The ending left me speechless. I don’t know that I’ve ever loved a cast of characters this much. Part of me was mad about the way things ended. However, after some pondering, I decided I was actually impressed that a book broke me a little. That doesn’t happen often. So…yay?
But really, I can’t praise this sequel enough. The plot of the emerging war is very interesting, but the characters were what really made it for me, so I’ll focus on them.
Pinto, who gets a bigger spotlight in Book 2, had the most tragic and amazing character development—you love him and you hate him. I adored Evaris because she’s so intriguing, complex, and sweet. Saunti’s personality is stellar, and his moral dilemmas were thought-provoking. And, of course, we have Vell. I think we all know Vell is wonderful.
The side characters are excellent, too. Yahshi takes a backseat, but I enjoyed seeing him interact with the Underground after his arc in Book 1. Aero, who we briefly met before, gets even more page time. Her friendship with Vell is the sweetest, and I just adore her as a whole. Podge and Kwinn’s characters give us an upbeat, lighthearted duo who are comical when placed in the same room as Saunti’s dry sarcasm.
On the Force’s end of the plot, my favorite side character was Keiyo. He has such an honest internal conflict, swaying between crumbling under his fear of authority and taking a stand for what he knows is right. Quax isn’t as involved, but we still get a few moments with him that give me hope for his development in Book 3. Then there’s one other character, a former trainee, whose return is absolutely crushing.
Another part I really enjoyed in UNDERGROUND ROYALTY was the romance. We get to see the most wholesome, adorable moments with Vell and Yahshi. (And can I just scream over how there’s that chapter in Book 1 titled “Tell Her” and then there’s a chapter in Book 2 titled “TELL HIM”??? It’s spectacular.)
The other romantic pair in Book 2 is Pinto and Evaris. Y’all, EvarPin is beautiful and horrible and wonderful and so many other things. Pinto does fumble hard a couple times, but you know, what else can we expect from his stickler personality? *evil laughs to those who know* I had to say that. It’s part of my post-Book 2 therapy.
Adding in a forbidden romance layer was a great choice for their plotline. I would’ve been far less hooked if it was just Pinto and Evaris solving a puzzle I already knew the answer to. Their unfolding love story kept me glued to the page.
Lastly, the prose. I typically don’t talk about writing style in book reviews because it’s not something I care a ton about. However, the prose in this series is gorgeous. Mel Torrefranca’s writing feels fresh and unique. She weaves these phrases throughout the story that are wonderful in it of themselves, but then they return at the most beautiful and gut-wrenching moments. They’ll either leave you screaming or speechless.
To finish this off, UNDERGROUND ROYALTY was everything. Stakes rise, characters are deepened, and the final chapter leaves you on the most heartbreaking cliffhanger. I am both terrified and on pins and needles to find out how this story ends.
*many thanks to Lost Island Press and Mel Torrefranca for the free copy after beta reading!
May 26, 2025
I want to thank Mel Torrefranca and Lost Island Press for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Let's start with honesty: at first, I was a little daunted by the number of pages in this sequel (larger than the first book), as I'm not a big fan of reading on a screen or Kindle, but wow, after a certain point, I was simply hooked. The plot, the characters, the pacing, and the prose all made a much more captivating read than I was anticipating (Mel's writing style shined more in this novel than in her previous works I've read).
From the start, it became clear that there were so many layers hidden beneath each character, each one got slowly peeled off, but then newer ones were added on top to make it all the more complicated. I had so many mixed feelings about Pinto and his decisions, but the ending really made my mind up on him―I really hope he sees the truth about the Force, but I also fear what that might entail. (My expectations have been ambushed several times by plot twists so now I've given up on predicting some outcomes―but I'm still hoping, lol.) There's no doubt I'll be reading the final book of this trilogy so that I can finally put my curiosity at ease.
Also, don't get me started on the book titles―they all RHYME, and I absolutely LOVE RHYMES. Nightshade ACADEMY, Underground ROYALTY, and Poisonous REMEDY. (I know what you're doing Mel… your wordplay is not lost on me.) Not only that, but I also really liked the chapter titles (and section titles) as well. The only tiny criticism is that I wish there was a table of contents at the beginning so that I can savour the titles and possibly predict what will happen based on them―but that's just my personal preference.
Furthermore, this sequel delved so much more into the world as a whole, and it was refreshing to see it through several different POVs. The only thing I keep wondering is how Yahshi feels about this whole thing and what happened during the council meetings. I'm not sure if it's even relevant to the plot as a whole, but my curiosity won't be appeased till I know.
Now, about the romance. I usually don't like romance plots because of how they're executed, but I genuinely enjoyed this one. Considering the characters' motivations and circumstances, it felt much more natural than in other novels, and I really appreciated it. Pinto's many betrayals obviously made him feel isolated and lonely, so I can see how that sense of isolation made him want to stay close to Evaris, who was the only one who seemed to accept him. As for Evaris, she also seemed kinda lonely (why else would she read so many novels?), so it made sense why they would fall for each other. The other detail I also liked was how their relationship took some time to develop―that made it feel so much more wholesome. Same goes for Yahshi and Vell.
Overall, this surpassed my initial expectations. I can see why having 500-ish pages was necessary for the story―so many things needed to be set up for an awesome finale. Very much looking forward to seeing how it will all end!!!
Let's start with honesty: at first, I was a little daunted by the number of pages in this sequel (larger than the first book), as I'm not a big fan of reading on a screen or Kindle, but wow, after a certain point, I was simply hooked. The plot, the characters, the pacing, and the prose all made a much more captivating read than I was anticipating (Mel's writing style shined more in this novel than in her previous works I've read).
From the start, it became clear that there were so many layers hidden beneath each character, each one got slowly peeled off, but then newer ones were added on top to make it all the more complicated. I had so many mixed feelings about Pinto and his decisions, but the ending really made my mind up on him―I really hope he sees the truth about the Force, but I also fear what that might entail. (My expectations have been ambushed several times by plot twists so now I've given up on predicting some outcomes―but I'm still hoping, lol.) There's no doubt I'll be reading the final book of this trilogy so that I can finally put my curiosity at ease.
Also, don't get me started on the book titles―they all RHYME, and I absolutely LOVE RHYMES. Nightshade ACADEMY, Underground ROYALTY, and Poisonous REMEDY. (I know what you're doing Mel… your wordplay is not lost on me.) Not only that, but I also really liked the chapter titles (and section titles) as well. The only tiny criticism is that I wish there was a table of contents at the beginning so that I can savour the titles and possibly predict what will happen based on them―but that's just my personal preference.
Furthermore, this sequel delved so much more into the world as a whole, and it was refreshing to see it through several different POVs. The only thing I keep wondering is how Yahshi feels about this whole thing and what happened during the council meetings. I'm not sure if it's even relevant to the plot as a whole, but my curiosity won't be appeased till I know.
Now, about the romance. I usually don't like romance plots because of how they're executed, but I genuinely enjoyed this one. Considering the characters' motivations and circumstances, it felt much more natural than in other novels, and I really appreciated it. Pinto's many betrayals obviously made him feel isolated and lonely, so I can see how that sense of isolation made him want to stay close to Evaris, who was the only one who seemed to accept him. As for Evaris, she also seemed kinda lonely (why else would she read so many novels?), so it made sense why they would fall for each other. The other detail I also liked was how their relationship took some time to develop―that made it feel so much more wholesome. Same goes for Yahshi and Vell.
Overall, this surpassed my initial expectations. I can see why having 500-ish pages was necessary for the story―so many things needed to be set up for an awesome finale. Very much looking forward to seeing how it will all end!!!
May 7, 2025
All the thanks in the world to Lost Island Press and Mel Torrefranca for giving me the honour to read this ARC.
If only I had known, a year ago, when I read Maelin, the pain and suffering this series would bring me…
I LOVED Maelin, I thought that for someone who knew nothing about this world, it was perfection, a great introduction and a delicious little slice of this world of guardians. I immediately wanted to read Nightshade Academy but I put it off because I hate waiting for the next book in a series. When the opportunity arose to read Underground Royalty I thought, never been a better time to give into the Belladonna world.
Lemme tell you. I am HOOKED. This series deserves so much hype, so much praise, so much more. The world, mwah chefs kiss, it’s so rich and well thought out. The Guardian system is so interesting and even though the book could quite easily fall into the oppressor and the oppressed stereotypes, it has enough about it to make it soooo intriguing. The dystopian fantasy mixed with a kind of old-timey feeling is beautiful. The settings and the thought that has gone into every piece of the puzzle is just phenomenal.
The characters????? Need I start?? I am OBSESSED. In Nightshade Academy I loved the characters and their little moral dilemmas, but in Underground Royalty?? I’m lost for words. Pinto’s entire character arc is so so so interesting, the way he struggles with his morales and his actions is just perfection on a page for me. The introduction of Saunti and Evantis and their relationships they forge with people, both showing insights into the opposing sides of the war. There is no good guy in this story, everyone does something bad for the things they think are good and that’s what makes it phenomenal to read.
And lemme tell you something dear readers, Mel Torrefranca knows how to write a good third act. I couldn’t put this down, I devoured every word on the pages. I’m usually one to guess plot twist but BOTH TIMES NOW IVE BEEN GOBSMACKED. I’m foaming at the mouth at the thought of the next book. Gimme gimme I want it nowwww.
Honestly though, pick this series up. It’s so under appreciated and it’s worth every page I’ve read. Read the Belladonna series, read the Maelin novella and read Underground Royalty so I can scream about these characters with someone.
If only I had known, a year ago, when I read Maelin, the pain and suffering this series would bring me…
I LOVED Maelin, I thought that for someone who knew nothing about this world, it was perfection, a great introduction and a delicious little slice of this world of guardians. I immediately wanted to read Nightshade Academy but I put it off because I hate waiting for the next book in a series. When the opportunity arose to read Underground Royalty I thought, never been a better time to give into the Belladonna world.
Lemme tell you. I am HOOKED. This series deserves so much hype, so much praise, so much more. The world, mwah chefs kiss, it’s so rich and well thought out. The Guardian system is so interesting and even though the book could quite easily fall into the oppressor and the oppressed stereotypes, it has enough about it to make it soooo intriguing. The dystopian fantasy mixed with a kind of old-timey feeling is beautiful. The settings and the thought that has gone into every piece of the puzzle is just phenomenal.
The characters????? Need I start?? I am OBSESSED. In Nightshade Academy I loved the characters and their little moral dilemmas, but in Underground Royalty?? I’m lost for words. Pinto’s entire character arc is so so so interesting, the way he struggles with his morales and his actions is just perfection on a page for me. The introduction of Saunti and Evantis and their relationships they forge with people, both showing insights into the opposing sides of the war. There is no good guy in this story, everyone does something bad for the things they think are good and that’s what makes it phenomenal to read.
And lemme tell you something dear readers, Mel Torrefranca knows how to write a good third act. I couldn’t put this down, I devoured every word on the pages. I’m usually one to guess plot twist but BOTH TIMES NOW IVE BEEN GOBSMACKED. I’m foaming at the mouth at the thought of the next book. Gimme gimme I want it nowwww.
Honestly though, pick this series up. It’s so under appreciated and it’s worth every page I’ve read. Read the Belladonna series, read the Maelin novella and read Underground Royalty so I can scream about these characters with someone.
December 7, 2025
I read this some months ago, but this book was life-altering. So here's my review :)
I loved it for similar reasons as Nightshade Academy and Maelin. But let me expand on that for this book.
One thing that is a little different in this book is that the setting/circumstances are very much giving Mockingjay vibes. So while the Hunger Games and the Belladonna series have pretty different vibes, they do have a few similar themes, so if that's a book you enjoyed, then might I recommend this book/series to you?
However, probably the biggest reason I love these books is the characters. I love them all so much! Let's have a moment of appreciation for Dice. No thoughts, just Dice. I'll just leave it at that. And although the trio is iconic, I especially loved the new relationships in this book like Vell and Aero, as well as Pinto and Evaris. And guys...EvarPin had me going through it. *Slightly ambiguous spoilers:* From smiling during their interactions (bc this is my JAM, this is my type of romance, this is exactly what I want to read, this is the perfect amount of everything, it's perfect, it's just *chef's kiss*) to...whatever happened in the end. Except it didn't happen, wdym. Idk what you're talking about, it didn't happen. Wdym, they all lived happily ever after.
You know a character I did not enjoy though (in an intentionally done way by the author)? Ogga. That should be of no surprise. After reading Maelin, my anxiety when seeing this man's name on the page was THROUGH THE ROOF. This also leads me to the point that Maelin does really enhance this book, so please do read this novella after Nightshade Academy and before this book. It's so good!
Anxiety is just one of the many emotions I felt while reading this book. The rollercoaster I went on during chapter 17 was crazy. Even though a lot of it was kind of right in front of me, I was still scared there for a second. And overall throughout the book, I had a lot of moments I had to put the book down to process either my emotions or the revelations. It was great.
However, idk if I can forgive Mel Torrefranca for the emotional damage. Because my boy Sunna is the reason I ended up spontaneously sobbing on a beach on a day trip with my family. I'm tearing up right now. The first half of chapter 21 is so beautiful, it's a fairy tale, it's perfect. That's all I'm going to say.
Overall, this is one of my all-time favourite books, and the emotional damage was worth it.
I loved it for similar reasons as Nightshade Academy and Maelin. But let me expand on that for this book.
One thing that is a little different in this book is that the setting/circumstances are very much giving Mockingjay vibes. So while the Hunger Games and the Belladonna series have pretty different vibes, they do have a few similar themes, so if that's a book you enjoyed, then might I recommend this book/series to you?
However, probably the biggest reason I love these books is the characters. I love them all so much! Let's have a moment of appreciation for Dice. No thoughts, just Dice. I'll just leave it at that. And although the trio is iconic, I especially loved the new relationships in this book like Vell and Aero, as well as Pinto and Evaris. And guys...EvarPin had me going through it. *Slightly ambiguous spoilers:* From smiling during their interactions (bc this is my JAM, this is my type of romance, this is exactly what I want to read, this is the perfect amount of everything, it's perfect, it's just *chef's kiss*) to...whatever happened in the end. Except it didn't happen, wdym. Idk what you're talking about, it didn't happen. Wdym, they all lived happily ever after.
You know a character I did not enjoy though (in an intentionally done way by the author)? Ogga. That should be of no surprise. After reading Maelin, my anxiety when seeing this man's name on the page was THROUGH THE ROOF. This also leads me to the point that Maelin does really enhance this book, so please do read this novella after Nightshade Academy and before this book. It's so good!
Anxiety is just one of the many emotions I felt while reading this book. The rollercoaster I went on during chapter 17 was crazy. Even though a lot of it was kind of right in front of me, I was still scared there for a second. And overall throughout the book, I had a lot of moments I had to put the book down to process either my emotions or the revelations. It was great.
However, idk if I can forgive Mel Torrefranca for the emotional damage. Because my boy Sunna is the reason I ended up spontaneously sobbing on a beach on a day trip with my family. I'm tearing up right now. The first half of chapter 21 is so beautiful, it's a fairy tale, it's perfect. That's all I'm going to say.
Overall, this is one of my all-time favourite books, and the emotional damage was worth it.
July 28, 2025
Wow. This book was insanely good and totally surpassed my expectations.
The character dynamics were all SO good.
Pinto: I loved (well, hated, but in a good way) seeing Pinto change over the course of the story; it felt very natural. I was getting really frustrated with him by the end, but in a good way. I also really liked his reaction after Evaris kissed him. It felt very Pinto-like, and was funny to see how they both had completely different interpretations of it.
Evaris: I really liked her. She was really sweet, while obviously not being morally perfect like Yahshi. I liked getting to learn about her family and how she felt about it.
Vell: I really liked Vell's chapters, and her friendship with Aero was really heartwarming. I liked how her existence highlighted the flaws in the royalty obsession of the underground (and by extension, the Vakoi empire as well), with everyone loving Yahshi, yet hating her.
Saunti: I really liked his conflict with Aero after he had to make his tough decision. I feel like he did the right thing, but Aero's anger was definitely justified. Past that point in the book, I felt like his chapters were a little boring, but they weren't bad at all.
Keiyo and Sunna: I really liked their friendship with each other.
One issue I had with it was that sometimes, the narrative would lead right up to an important scene and literally just skip it, continuing on to the next one. I understand this isn't too uncommon, but when you lead us RIGHT up to it, randomly skip forward a few minutes, and pick up RIGHT after, it feels like the book itself is lying to me by hiding things. Maybe if the skip happened in between chapters, it wouldn't feel like that.
Overall, great book! I couldn't put it down once I started, and I am really excited for book 3!
The character dynamics were all SO good.
Pinto: I loved (well, hated, but in a good way) seeing Pinto change over the course of the story; it felt very natural. I was getting really frustrated with him by the end, but in a good way. I also really liked his reaction after Evaris kissed him. It felt very Pinto-like, and was funny to see how they both had completely different interpretations of it.
Evaris: I really liked her. She was really sweet, while obviously not being morally perfect like Yahshi. I liked getting to learn about her family and how she felt about it.
Vell: I really liked Vell's chapters, and her friendship with Aero was really heartwarming. I liked how her existence highlighted the flaws in the royalty obsession of the underground (and by extension, the Vakoi empire as well), with everyone loving Yahshi, yet hating her.
Saunti: I really liked his conflict with Aero after he had to make his tough decision. I feel like he did the right thing, but Aero's anger was definitely justified. Past that point in the book, I felt like his chapters were a little boring, but they weren't bad at all.
Keiyo and Sunna: I really liked their friendship with each other.
One issue I had with it was that sometimes, the narrative would lead right up to an important scene and literally just skip it, continuing on to the next one. I understand this isn't too uncommon, but when you lead us RIGHT up to it, randomly skip forward a few minutes, and pick up RIGHT after, it feels like the book itself is lying to me by hiding things. Maybe if the skip happened in between chapters, it wouldn't feel like that.
Overall, great book! I couldn't put it down once I started, and I am really excited for book 3!
May 31, 2025
Underground Royalty is the 2nd book in the Belladonna Series. It follows the aftermath of Yashi and Vell deserting the Force to join the Underground. In the Underground Headquarters, Yashi struggles to find support and Vell struggles to prove her trustworthiness. Meanwhile, Pinto finds himself alone and socially cast out by his fellow guardians (members of the Force).
The story alternates between 4 POVs, 2 from the Underground and 2 from within the Force, allowing the reader to see what's happening in both sides in real time. Because of this, the reader was able to see a decision being made by one side and the other's subsequent reaction to it, which I found really cool.
Yashi, Vell and Pinto had already won me over in the first book, and this one perfectly takes their story forward in the most heart-wrenching way. Yashi and Vell's concern for each other was heartwarming to read. And Pinto honestly deserves a hug after everything he has been through. He is by far my favorite character in this book. The writing made you want to root for the all the characters, especially him, even though you knew that rooting for him would have detrimental consequences to the other characters and himself. Saunti and Evaris, the two new main characters introduced in this book made my heart melt. Both of them were extremely nuanced and well developed.
The romance in the novel was excellent!!! You can see the characters growing to care for each other, struggling to accept their feelings and ultimately revealing their true emotions. It was subtle and not in your face, but always present in a way that felt natural and authentic. It was perfectly executed!
The plot had a few unexpected twists, but was mostly driven by the characters bonding with each other. However, it never felt slow and the story kept moving forward smoothly.
The only negative point I have for this book is the first 20%. I wish the story did not overlap and continued where it left off in the 1st book. The first book left the story at such a good place, it felt like an injustice to backtrack so much, especially since I didn't think it added much to the story as a whole.
The story alternates between 4 POVs, 2 from the Underground and 2 from within the Force, allowing the reader to see what's happening in both sides in real time. Because of this, the reader was able to see a decision being made by one side and the other's subsequent reaction to it, which I found really cool.
Yashi, Vell and Pinto had already won me over in the first book, and this one perfectly takes their story forward in the most heart-wrenching way. Yashi and Vell's concern for each other was heartwarming to read. And Pinto honestly deserves a hug after everything he has been through. He is by far my favorite character in this book. The writing made you want to root for the all the characters, especially him, even though you knew that rooting for him would have detrimental consequences to the other characters and himself. Saunti and Evaris, the two new main characters introduced in this book made my heart melt. Both of them were extremely nuanced and well developed.
The romance in the novel was excellent!!! You can see the characters growing to care for each other, struggling to accept their feelings and ultimately revealing their true emotions. It was subtle and not in your face, but always present in a way that felt natural and authentic. It was perfectly executed!
The plot had a few unexpected twists, but was mostly driven by the characters bonding with each other. However, it never felt slow and the story kept moving forward smoothly.
The only negative point I have for this book is the first 20%. I wish the story did not overlap and continued where it left off in the 1st book. The first book left the story at such a good place, it felt like an injustice to backtrack so much, especially since I didn't think it added much to the story as a whole.
May 10, 2025
Thanks to Mel Torrefranca and Lost Island Press for the ARC.
Underground Royalty is the second novel in the dystopian fantasy Belladonna series, going further in depth in the mysteries and corruption of the Vakoi Empire from the first.
There are two main perspectives in the novel, those of the Underground and those in the Force. This part of the novel shows Yahshi’s struggle to come to terms with his new role and the aftermath’s of Vell’s own desertion of the force. New characters like Saunti provide an intriguing narrative of how the Empire’s actions impacted those who do not benefit from it, and their plans to overthrow their oppressors. I would say Saunti’s development is incredibly well written, his moral dilemma of what is expected of him is convincing and well thought out. Vell and Aero’s friendship in this novel is something that I enjoyed, along with the other characters connected with the Underground.
The Force’s perspective builds on from the first novel, but instead of showing students in the academy, we see the pressure of the guardians of the empire. The viewpoints of Evaris and Pinto is very revealing in the struggles that the followers of the empire go through protecting something which forces to question their own morality. I would say Pinto’s arc is my favourite part of the novel. He is very tragic character but deeply flawed, in pain because of Vell and Yahshi leaving, but his questionable actions push away all that he has left. His relationship with Evaris is incredibly compelling, very toxic for both of them but something that is needed for them to question who they are working for.
Though the pacing slows down by the middle of the novel, the last third is very well written and comes to terms with the themes of betrayal and loyalty that are portrayed in all the characters in this book. Pinto’s sense of betrayal compared to Saunti’s is a contrast that ends this novel with a cliffhanger portrayed by their actions. This sequel improved in many ways from the first and I cannot wait to read the last book in this trilogy.
Underground Royalty is the second novel in the dystopian fantasy Belladonna series, going further in depth in the mysteries and corruption of the Vakoi Empire from the first.
There are two main perspectives in the novel, those of the Underground and those in the Force. This part of the novel shows Yahshi’s struggle to come to terms with his new role and the aftermath’s of Vell’s own desertion of the force. New characters like Saunti provide an intriguing narrative of how the Empire’s actions impacted those who do not benefit from it, and their plans to overthrow their oppressors. I would say Saunti’s development is incredibly well written, his moral dilemma of what is expected of him is convincing and well thought out. Vell and Aero’s friendship in this novel is something that I enjoyed, along with the other characters connected with the Underground.
The Force’s perspective builds on from the first novel, but instead of showing students in the academy, we see the pressure of the guardians of the empire. The viewpoints of Evaris and Pinto is very revealing in the struggles that the followers of the empire go through protecting something which forces to question their own morality. I would say Pinto’s arc is my favourite part of the novel. He is very tragic character but deeply flawed, in pain because of Vell and Yahshi leaving, but his questionable actions push away all that he has left. His relationship with Evaris is incredibly compelling, very toxic for both of them but something that is needed for them to question who they are working for.
Though the pacing slows down by the middle of the novel, the last third is very well written and comes to terms with the themes of betrayal and loyalty that are portrayed in all the characters in this book. Pinto’s sense of betrayal compared to Saunti’s is a contrast that ends this novel with a cliffhanger portrayed by their actions. This sequel improved in many ways from the first and I cannot wait to read the last book in this trilogy.
November 28, 2025
This is Book 2 in the Belladonna series (but don’t worry, this is spoiler free) and whew, it’s a fantastic series - YA fantasy thriller. This continues immediately on from the end of Nightshade Academy. This took it up a notch from Book 1 with even darker themes and ramped up violence with higher stakes. The worldbuilding Mel achieves is so incredibly vivid.
Something this series excels in is morally ambiguous characters. Human beings are constantly shifting - morals change, motives change, decisions are influenced by so many factors - and Mel highlights that so beautifully. Pinto’s need for authority, to believe in the structures around him, to believe they’re inherently GOOD. His character is incredibly complex, as are so many of the characters in this series including the more minor ones. Loyalties, friendships, and trust are challenged, and we see what breaks.
Underground Royalty introduces romance to the series, but not in a way that cheapens it. It continues to be complex, addressing having a relationship in a system that can kill you for it and how willing you are to make sacrifices for love. A beautifully executed addition. The writing style is unbelievably good, I continue to be a major fan of Mel’s writing, and I loved the use of multiple POVs because every POV is glorious when characters are fleshed out as much as these ones are!
I found the beginning slow going, too much repetition of Nightshade Academy for me that mostly didn’t feel necessary, but this was still great and I anxiously await the release of book 3!! 🌟
- Lara <3
Something this series excels in is morally ambiguous characters. Human beings are constantly shifting - morals change, motives change, decisions are influenced by so many factors - and Mel highlights that so beautifully. Pinto’s need for authority, to believe in the structures around him, to believe they’re inherently GOOD. His character is incredibly complex, as are so many of the characters in this series including the more minor ones. Loyalties, friendships, and trust are challenged, and we see what breaks.
Underground Royalty introduces romance to the series, but not in a way that cheapens it. It continues to be complex, addressing having a relationship in a system that can kill you for it and how willing you are to make sacrifices for love. A beautifully executed addition. The writing style is unbelievably good, I continue to be a major fan of Mel’s writing, and I loved the use of multiple POVs because every POV is glorious when characters are fleshed out as much as these ones are!
I found the beginning slow going, too much repetition of Nightshade Academy for me that mostly didn’t feel necessary, but this was still great and I anxiously await the release of book 3!! 🌟
- Lara <3
May 23, 2025
I absolutely loved #NightshadeAcademy. (the 1st book in this series). So much so its probably in my top 10 favourite books I've ever read so I have been waiting patiently for the follow up #UndergroundRoyalty with so much excitement. I often worry about books in series because I fear they can't live up to the original, sadly I was correct with my doubts.
Unfortunately I found this really hard going to begin with, as it had been quite some time, I had forgotten most of the characters other than the MC so I felt very lost for almost all the 1st half. So many characters were brought up that I recognised their name but not their characters story, I think maybe I should've reread Nightshade Academy before starting the follow up. We was also introduced to alot of new characters which caused more confusion. I would recommend anyone to reread the 1st in the series to refresh you memory and to those who haven't read the 1st book to definitely go read it (as well as it being amazing) it will help u understand the follow up alot more.
The final 25% of the story did improve greatly and the end was quite exciting & dramatic which I love but it wasn't enough sadly.
I would like to point out that at the beginning the author puts out a warning of triggers which I think is fantastic, I wish all books did this, so thank you for that, very much appreciated.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Unfortunately I found this really hard going to begin with, as it had been quite some time, I had forgotten most of the characters other than the MC so I felt very lost for almost all the 1st half. So many characters were brought up that I recognised their name but not their characters story, I think maybe I should've reread Nightshade Academy before starting the follow up. We was also introduced to alot of new characters which caused more confusion. I would recommend anyone to reread the 1st in the series to refresh you memory and to those who haven't read the 1st book to definitely go read it (as well as it being amazing) it will help u understand the follow up alot more.
The final 25% of the story did improve greatly and the end was quite exciting & dramatic which I love but it wasn't enough sadly.
I would like to point out that at the beginning the author puts out a warning of triggers which I think is fantastic, I wish all books did this, so thank you for that, very much appreciated.
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
June 16, 2025
It was such a thrill to be back immerse in this world. I like that we had the opportunity to experience different types of perspectives from the characters from the underground and the nightshades.
It took me a little while to adjust back to the world. To remember once more of all the characters but once my memory kicked in, I was in.
It took me back that through out this sequel. Everything quite literally me intrigued especially that the plot was of an upcoming war which made it even not to enjoyed because of how well everything was thought out. Even the ticking of the clock.
On the other hand, I can’t get enough of this characters. Even though I adore Yahshi during book 1 but it was fun other voices being bought out, like Aero who I quite adored.
Other than the beginning that was a bit slow but along the lines where they went to the underground it did start to get a bit more intriguing and ever so exciting when things started to develop more and more. Definitely recommend it.
I recommend everyone to go read Nightshade Academy (book 1) and the fascinating prequel of Maelin and finally read Underground Royalty so you can then wait with me for book 3 to emerge another masterpiece.
Thank you Mel Torrefranca and lost island press for letting me read the arc. And I’m for the extra time as well.
It took me a little while to adjust back to the world. To remember once more of all the characters but once my memory kicked in, I was in.
It took me back that through out this sequel. Everything quite literally me intrigued especially that the plot was of an upcoming war which made it even not to enjoyed because of how well everything was thought out. Even the ticking of the clock.
On the other hand, I can’t get enough of this characters. Even though I adore Yahshi during book 1 but it was fun other voices being bought out, like Aero who I quite adored.
Other than the beginning that was a bit slow but along the lines where they went to the underground it did start to get a bit more intriguing and ever so exciting when things started to develop more and more. Definitely recommend it.
I recommend everyone to go read Nightshade Academy (book 1) and the fascinating prequel of Maelin and finally read Underground Royalty so you can then wait with me for book 3 to emerge another masterpiece.
Thank you Mel Torrefranca and lost island press for letting me read the arc. And I’m for the extra time as well.
August 2, 2025
It was such a thrill to be back immerse in this world. I like that we had the opportunity to experience different types of perspectives from the characters from the underground and the nightshades.
It took me a little while to adjust back to the world. To remember once more of all the characters but once my memory kicked in, I was in.
It took me back that through out this sequel. Everything quite literally me intrigued especially that the plot was of an upcoming war which made it even not to enjoyed because of how well everything was thought out. Even the ticking of the clock.
On the other hand, I can’t get enough of this characters. Even though I adore Yahshi during book 1 but it was fun other voices being bought out, like Aero who I quite adored.
Other than the beginning that was a bit slow but along the lines where they went to the underground it did start to get a bit more intriguing and ever so exciting when things started to develop more and more. Definitely recommend it.
I recommend everyone to go read Nightshade Academy (book 1) and the fascinating prequel of Maelin and finally read Underground Royalty so you can then wait with me for book 3 to emerge another masterpiece.
Thank you Mel Torrefranca and lost island press for letting me read the arc. And I’m for the extra time as well.
It took me a little while to adjust back to the world. To remember once more of all the characters but once my memory kicked in, I was in.
It took me back that through out this sequel. Everything quite literally me intrigued especially that the plot was of an upcoming war which made it even not to enjoyed because of how well everything was thought out. Even the ticking of the clock.
On the other hand, I can’t get enough of this characters. Even though I adore Yahshi during book 1 but it was fun other voices being bought out, like Aero who I quite adored.
Other than the beginning that was a bit slow but along the lines where they went to the underground it did start to get a bit more intriguing and ever so exciting when things started to develop more and more. Definitely recommend it.
I recommend everyone to go read Nightshade Academy (book 1) and the fascinating prequel of Maelin and finally read Underground Royalty so you can then wait with me for book 3 to emerge another masterpiece.
Thank you Mel Torrefranca and lost island press for letting me read the arc. And I’m for the extra time as well.
May 27, 2025
It's rare for a second book to eclipse the first one, but this one manages it!
Set in the days leading up to Yahshi going underground, we explore 4 different POVs, none of them being Yahshi himself. Through these unexpected narrators, we get to experience what's going on in the underground, and in the Nightshade force Yahshi left behind.
I had the experience to beta read this one, and seeing where it went from the early copy to the finished, the work has definitely been put in and the story has grown even more!
At times funny, romantic, heartbreaking, and problematic, I don't know how much I can say about this without giving too much away. If you're just starting the series, I think the novella Maelin is definitely a must read before going to the second - it will provide a lot of extra insight.
I had to stop and catch my breath several times to keep from crying, and I will say that there isn't always happy moments for our favorite characters. Hard choices, knowing what rules are ok to break. What lines we can cross and still be on the right side.
One of my favorite current series, I can't wait for the third one to come out!
Set in the days leading up to Yahshi going underground, we explore 4 different POVs, none of them being Yahshi himself. Through these unexpected narrators, we get to experience what's going on in the underground, and in the Nightshade force Yahshi left behind.
I had the experience to beta read this one, and seeing where it went from the early copy to the finished, the work has definitely been put in and the story has grown even more!
At times funny, romantic, heartbreaking, and problematic, I don't know how much I can say about this without giving too much away. If you're just starting the series, I think the novella Maelin is definitely a must read before going to the second - it will provide a lot of extra insight.
I had to stop and catch my breath several times to keep from crying, and I will say that there isn't always happy moments for our favorite characters. Hard choices, knowing what rules are ok to break. What lines we can cross and still be on the right side.
One of my favorite current series, I can't wait for the third one to come out!
May 31, 2025
4.5 STARS
Torrefranca never ceases to draw me right in to a story, no matter how much of a reading slump I'm in or how busy my life is. I won't lie and say I read this book in one sitting—it took me nearly a month of a book sneaked in between shifts and propped up while cooking and anywhere I could squeeze in a chapter or two. This unfortunate reading schedule that intermittently becomes necessary usually kills a story dead cold, mostly because I can't remember what came before and the pace, emotion, and build has pittered and choked out in one of the many interruptions. The Belladonna books, somehow, are exactly the cure.
Without a doubt, Mel Torrefranca packs a punch. While melancholy and meandering at times, the plot and its characters are never lost, and every time I enter her world, I enter it fully.
The characters and the many stories woven throughout are, as Torrefranca always miraculously manages, their very own people. No same-face syndrome, no tropish cast of cardboard cutouts—this is a real live band of deeply scarred individuals with their own tangle of excellence and morals and mistakes.
Looking forward to what comes next 🤙
Torrefranca never ceases to draw me right in to a story, no matter how much of a reading slump I'm in or how busy my life is. I won't lie and say I read this book in one sitting—it took me nearly a month of a book sneaked in between shifts and propped up while cooking and anywhere I could squeeze in a chapter or two. This unfortunate reading schedule that intermittently becomes necessary usually kills a story dead cold, mostly because I can't remember what came before and the pace, emotion, and build has pittered and choked out in one of the many interruptions. The Belladonna books, somehow, are exactly the cure.
Without a doubt, Mel Torrefranca packs a punch. While melancholy and meandering at times, the plot and its characters are never lost, and every time I enter her world, I enter it fully.
The characters and the many stories woven throughout are, as Torrefranca always miraculously manages, their very own people. No same-face syndrome, no tropish cast of cardboard cutouts—this is a real live band of deeply scarred individuals with their own tangle of excellence and morals and mistakes.
Looking forward to what comes next 🤙
May 31, 2025
Ever since reading Nightshade Academy well over a year ago, I have been eagerly awaiting the follow up. Last year's Maelin kept my anticipation for the release of Underground Royalty high. Now that I've read it, the wait was well worth it.
The first part of the book gives a glimpse of how events unfolded from various perspectives as the search for Yahshi continues with his fellow graduate guardians in pursuit. The chance to see what else was taking place prior to the end of Nightshade Academy was unexpected, but very welcome. I found it to be an incredibly smart way to start this second book.
Without giving details regarding the characters and storyline, I particularly found this book more emotionally engaging than I expected. The development of and the relationships between the characters was so well done I felt as if I knew both old and new characters in the richly drawn world. With surprising turns of events, my attention was kept from the start all the way through to the end. Once again, I'll be patiently waiting for the next installment. I can't recommend this enough.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The first part of the book gives a glimpse of how events unfolded from various perspectives as the search for Yahshi continues with his fellow graduate guardians in pursuit. The chance to see what else was taking place prior to the end of Nightshade Academy was unexpected, but very welcome. I found it to be an incredibly smart way to start this second book.
Without giving details regarding the characters and storyline, I particularly found this book more emotionally engaging than I expected. The development of and the relationships between the characters was so well done I felt as if I knew both old and new characters in the richly drawn world. With surprising turns of events, my attention was kept from the start all the way through to the end. Once again, I'll be patiently waiting for the next installment. I can't recommend this enough.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 23, 2025
I have been looking forward to this 2nd installment of the #BelladonnaSeries for so long, and it did NOT disappoint. This picks up right where we left off in book 1, and this time around, we get introduced to the world of the Underground. As I knew she would, Torrefranca did an amazing job in building out the world of the Underground, and she introduced us to some amazing new characters. It was wonderful getting to know the characters from book 1 a bit more, but I also came away from this one with a great love for these new characters.
I felt all sorts of emotions throughout the book, but especially at the end. This Dystopian, Low Fantasy story had me angry, laughing, sad, hopeful...all of it. That just shows how talented Mel is. The ending was one of the BEST cliffhangers ever, and I am anxiously awaiting the final installment to see how it all ends.
Thank you to #LostIslandPress for an advanced copy of this book. I am leaving this review on my own accord.
I felt all sorts of emotions throughout the book, but especially at the end. This Dystopian, Low Fantasy story had me angry, laughing, sad, hopeful...all of it. That just shows how talented Mel is. The ending was one of the BEST cliffhangers ever, and I am anxiously awaiting the final installment to see how it all ends.
Thank you to #LostIslandPress for an advanced copy of this book. I am leaving this review on my own accord.
June 13, 2025
Disgusting, absolutely disgusting.
I have never read a story capable of making me hate a character so much!
Hats off to Mel, for ruining my day. Just how many good characters do you have to kill to be satisfied huh? I just can't bear this, only waiting for the last book to finish it off.
No matter what, everyone from the Guardians deserve to die, just how cruel do you have to be to kill someone so easily.
Reading this has left me doubting the author's mental state, how could she write such a dark, dirty novel.
I guess, I am not cut out for reading such books. Sigh...
No matter what this is such a gripping novel, and characters are so realistic that I couldn't help but get angry reading each and every sentence. In spite of all that, I couldn't stop, I had to know how it would all end...
I have never read a story capable of making me hate a character so much!
Hats off to Mel, for ruining my day. Just how many good characters do you have to kill to be satisfied huh? I just can't bear this, only waiting for the last book to finish it off.
No matter what, everyone from the Guardians deserve to die, just how cruel do you have to be to kill someone so easily.
Reading this has left me doubting the author's mental state, how could she write such a dark, dirty novel.
I guess, I am not cut out for reading such books. Sigh...
No matter what this is such a gripping novel, and characters are so realistic that I couldn't help but get angry reading each and every sentence. In spite of all that, I couldn't stop, I had to know how it would all end...
May 9, 2025
Thanks to Lost Island Press and Mel Torrefranca.
We pick up the story pretty much where we left off with Nightshade Academy.
Again we go through all the familiar emotions; loyalty, friendship, trust, betrayal, sadness, grief, anger and even love. Yes, there is romance, but nothing sappy but something perfectly balanced that is forged throughout the novel.
Of course, as I always say, the characters are the best, perfectly developed, complex, even the new ones like Saunti are introduced in a way that makes you feel them as much yours as the rest of the old acquaintances.
I loved Underground Royalty. I couldn't put the book down until I finished it and the totally unexpected twists left me open-mouthed and with bated breath.
Needless to say, I can't wait to read the next one.
We pick up the story pretty much where we left off with Nightshade Academy.
Again we go through all the familiar emotions; loyalty, friendship, trust, betrayal, sadness, grief, anger and even love. Yes, there is romance, but nothing sappy but something perfectly balanced that is forged throughout the novel.
Of course, as I always say, the characters are the best, perfectly developed, complex, even the new ones like Saunti are introduced in a way that makes you feel them as much yours as the rest of the old acquaintances.
I loved Underground Royalty. I couldn't put the book down until I finished it and the totally unexpected twists left me open-mouthed and with bated breath.
Needless to say, I can't wait to read the next one.
May 31, 2025
Thank you to Lost Island Press and Mel Torrefranca for an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. Underground Royalty is a worthy sequel to Nightshade Academy. The writing remains descriptive and gripping every chapter, building more and more of its complex characters. I love the setting, the pacing and the characters. Underground Royalty is a real page turner- I cannot wait to see how the third book carries the story further.
May 31, 2025
Loved the back and forth more in this book to get more than the one characters point of view.
I have read this twice as I was also a beta reader on this book. I loved the final changes that happened from the earlier version to the final copy.
I enjoyed the suprise mention of my name in the thanks section at the back of the book also.
When book 3 comes to be written I hope I can also beta read that.
I have read this twice as I was also a beta reader on this book. I loved the final changes that happened from the earlier version to the final copy.
I enjoyed the suprise mention of my name in the thanks section at the back of the book also.
When book 3 comes to be written I hope I can also beta read that.
December 13, 2025
I didn’t enjoy this as much as the first in the series, with some of my doubts about that reinforced. The plotting and characters are just a bit too clunky to be convincing and I found my attention wandering. There’s some good stuff in there, but it somehow doesn’t quite piece together. Probably won’t continue with the series.
June 24, 2025
As always, Mel Torrefranca is a genius writing such an unputdownable novel with smart plot points. Can't wait for Belladonna #3 to come out.
July 22, 2025
Loved the new characters and the ending was such a cliff hanger but I’m pissed there’s another book with no release date 😭 by the time it’s released I’ll have forgotten the whole story
December 5, 2025
I will need 3-5 business days to stare at a wall while I recover from this
January 18, 2026
i loved pinto in nightshade academy. i absolutely HATE him now.
sunna's death made me sob. how dare you, mel. how dare you.
yahshi and saunti agreeing to be brothers is SO CUTE 😭❤️❤️
sunna's death made me sob. how dare you, mel. how dare you.
yahshi and saunti agreeing to be brothers is SO CUTE 😭❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
I loved this book, after readin the first one I delved into this one almost immeaditly. I'll admit the first part is slow because its the final part of the first book in different characters perspectives, but it makes us learn about the characters more and when something happens in the part, breaks your heart. The third part shocks you, It was a page turner. This is an amazing series and i'll be the first ones to buy the third and final book
November 15, 2025
Pinto Dempsey, they could never make me hate you...but they're certainly trying.
I got the wonderful opportunity to beta-read Underground Royalty, so it feels extra rewarding to read the ARC of it now. This series has everything a younger me (and even a current me) looked for in a YA novel: found family, subtle and slow-burning romances, and insane plot twists. Book two also incorporated multiple POVs, which is one of my favorite styles to read books in.
Book two begins right where the first one left off: Yahshi and Vell have found the Underground while Pinto has been left alone at the Force. The story is told through four main POVs: Pinto, Vell, Saunti, and Evaris. The multi-POV structure was quite helpful for keeping the tension high throughout the story, and it kept the pace moving along pretty well. There are some sections in the middle that I found dragged at times, but I also just finished reading the beta version of it not too long ago, so that could be the reason I struggled with suspense in some sections. That being said, the last 20% or so is rapidfire and so, so twisty. I literally could not put the book down for the ending, and I'm already stressed out for book three. The reason I rated it a bit lower than book one is that it felt a bit slower to me due to some worldbuilding sections, and I think it might have a bit of second-book syndrome, but overall, I still really enjoyed it and I can't wait for the next one.
The multi-POVs also helped to demonstrate how complex and realistic all of these characters are. I found Saunti and Vell's chapters to be a bit slower than Evaris and Pinto's, but that makes sense given the extra worldbuilding that had to take place within the Underground - and they were still extra tense. Saunti acts as Yahshi's foil in many ways, which I found super intriguing given we didn't get a Yahshi POV in this book. His sense of humor is fun, and I think he was a strong addition to the main cast. Vell's POVs also serve to develop Yahshi and the relationship between the two of them, and I liked seeing the world through her eyes, too. Evaris was interesting because she was briefly introduced in book one, but she shines in this story with her moral complexity and her balance to Pinto's chapters. Pinto was probably my favorite character in the first book, and his arc in this book is incredibly well done. His character is very well-written, and his internal conflict was one of my favorite parts of this book. Keiyo also stood out to me, though I don't quite know why (I do...it's called sadness + jokes ).
Fans of Nightshade Academy will not be disappointed by Underground Royalty's addition to the series, as it promises plenty of tension, intrigue, and complexity.
Thanks to the publisher for the free e-ARC (and for letting me beta-read)!
4.25/5
I got the wonderful opportunity to beta-read Underground Royalty, so it feels extra rewarding to read the ARC of it now. This series has everything a younger me (and even a current me) looked for in a YA novel: found family, subtle and slow-burning romances, and insane plot twists. Book two also incorporated multiple POVs, which is one of my favorite styles to read books in.
Book two begins right where the first one left off: Yahshi and Vell have found the Underground while Pinto has been left alone at the Force. The story is told through four main POVs: Pinto, Vell, Saunti, and Evaris. The multi-POV structure was quite helpful for keeping the tension high throughout the story, and it kept the pace moving along pretty well. There are some sections in the middle that I found dragged at times, but I also just finished reading the beta version of it not too long ago, so that could be the reason I struggled with suspense in some sections. That being said, the last 20% or so is rapidfire and so, so twisty. I literally could not put the book down for the ending, and I'm already stressed out for book three. The reason I rated it a bit lower than book one is that it felt a bit slower to me due to some worldbuilding sections, and I think it might have a bit of second-book syndrome, but overall, I still really enjoyed it and I can't wait for the next one.
The multi-POVs also helped to demonstrate how complex and realistic all of these characters are. I found Saunti and Vell's chapters to be a bit slower than Evaris and Pinto's, but that makes sense given the extra worldbuilding that had to take place within the Underground - and they were still extra tense. Saunti acts as Yahshi's foil in many ways, which I found super intriguing given we didn't get a Yahshi POV in this book. His sense of humor is fun, and I think he was a strong addition to the main cast. Vell's POVs also serve to develop Yahshi and the relationship between the two of them, and I liked seeing the world through her eyes, too. Evaris was interesting because she was briefly introduced in book one, but she shines in this story with her moral complexity and her balance to Pinto's chapters. Pinto was probably my favorite character in the first book, and his arc in this book is incredibly well done. His character is very well-written, and his internal conflict was one of my favorite parts of this book. Keiyo also stood out to me, though I don't quite know why (I do...it's called sadness + jokes ).
Fans of Nightshade Academy will not be disappointed by Underground Royalty's addition to the series, as it promises plenty of tension, intrigue, and complexity.
Thanks to the publisher for the free e-ARC (and for letting me beta-read)!
4.25/5
December 13, 2025
Wow. This book was just, wow.
When Mel cooks, she cooks WELL.
Underground Royalty is a low fantasy filled to the brim with twists, action, a touch of romance, suspense… what’s not to love? The ending had me gasping, flipping back and forth between pages, shocked, betrayed that Mel had left me dangling on the edge of a cliff. Guess if someone was hanging on the edge of a cliff, you really would leave us hanging, huh Torrefranca? (Iykyk)
Now, I did have a couple minor gripes. I didn’t like the chapter hopping sometimes - there were a few times I was bored with one pov and wanted to get back to another. There were also some very dialogue heavy scenes that felt a chore to read through, and some character relationships (Yahshi and Saunti) that were resolved too quickly, and left me wanting more out of their relationship. I expressed this in my last review, but Yahshi being 15 is giving peak man written by woman. There’s NO WAY you’re TWELVE and other boys are FIFTEEN and no one catches on. As a dude, this is laughable for so many reasons, and I find it best to just headcannon him as everyone else’s age.
Again, minor gripes - except for the last one - because this book was just excellent.
If you like twists, thriller-like pacing, rebellions, complex characters, romance, all wrapped in a low fantasy package, please. Pick. This. Up.
When Mel cooks, she cooks WELL.
Underground Royalty is a low fantasy filled to the brim with twists, action, a touch of romance, suspense… what’s not to love? The ending had me gasping, flipping back and forth between pages, shocked, betrayed that Mel had left me dangling on the edge of a cliff. Guess if someone was hanging on the edge of a cliff, you really would leave us hanging, huh Torrefranca? (Iykyk)
Now, I did have a couple minor gripes. I didn’t like the chapter hopping sometimes - there were a few times I was bored with one pov and wanted to get back to another. There were also some very dialogue heavy scenes that felt a chore to read through, and some character relationships (Yahshi and Saunti) that were resolved too quickly, and left me wanting more out of their relationship. I expressed this in my last review, but Yahshi being 15 is giving peak man written by woman. There’s NO WAY you’re TWELVE and other boys are FIFTEEN and no one catches on. As a dude, this is laughable for so many reasons, and I find it best to just headcannon him as everyone else’s age.
Again, minor gripes - except for the last one - because this book was just excellent.
If you like twists, thriller-like pacing, rebellions, complex characters, romance, all wrapped in a low fantasy package, please. Pick. This. Up.
January 8, 2026
🌟 5 stars 🌟
This book made me cry more than any other book has. I can't even describe how I feel right now.
Underground Royalty is book 2 in the Belladonna trilogy, book 1 being Nightshade Academy.
This was an amazing continuation to Nightshade Academy. The characters are so good and relatable. They are so easy to connect with and as you read, you feel their pain. 😭
I loved the romance plot between Pinto and Evaris. It felt so natural and comfortable, like they were real people with real emotions.
The end of this book had me crying with my jaw hanging open...
Pinto is so confusing. His conflict is amazing and I can't decide if I like him or hate him.
I loved the plot with Saunti and Rimoso. I was very intrigued and though at the beginning I didn't like Saunti, the way he handled that situation made me at least respect him. He was honest and didn't hold a grudge, I was surprised.
Vell... do I even need to say more? She was amazing in the first book and amazing in this one too. I loved that usually, she is straightforward and direct, but when talking about her feelings for Yahshi to Yahshi, she struggled to be honest. I love their relationship... 🫠
The emotional scenes are so impacting and heart ripping! I've never connected and cared about fictional characters more than the ones of the Belladonna series. 💔
This book made me cry more than any other book has. I can't even describe how I feel right now.
Underground Royalty is book 2 in the Belladonna trilogy, book 1 being Nightshade Academy.
This was an amazing continuation to Nightshade Academy. The characters are so good and relatable. They are so easy to connect with and as you read, you feel their pain. 😭
I loved the romance plot between Pinto and Evaris. It felt so natural and comfortable, like they were real people with real emotions.
The end of this book had me crying with my jaw hanging open...
Pinto is so confusing. His conflict is amazing and I can't decide if I like him or hate him.
I loved the plot with Saunti and Rimoso. I was very intrigued and though at the beginning I didn't like Saunti, the way he handled that situation made me at least respect him. He was honest and didn't hold a grudge, I was surprised.
Vell... do I even need to say more? She was amazing in the first book and amazing in this one too. I loved that usually, she is straightforward and direct, but when talking about her feelings for Yahshi to Yahshi, she struggled to be honest. I love their relationship... 🫠
The emotional scenes are so impacting and heart ripping! I've never connected and cared about fictional characters more than the ones of the Belladonna series. 💔
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