"I'm passing the torch to you, Blimmery...Remember our deal, and use your words. Finish what I started."

I am so excited to have received my ARC for Maelin after I was a beta reader for it a few months ago. This novella is a prequel to the Belladonna series, and it gives some insight into the backstory of one of the older characters in Nightshade Academy: Blimmery.
The novella is told by Blimmery, but it is about a girl named Maelin who realizes the truth behind the Guardian program and is silenced. This is not a spoiler; the story begins with Blimmery announcing Maelin's death. The knowledge of where the story is going plays in its favor, creating an unavoidable tragedy. There are plenty of parallels between this novella and the main series, but neither is necessary for reading the other. I also really liked that romance was not at the forefront of this story. I really liked the dynamics between the main cast (especially Maelin and Taig).
If you have read the original series or are looking for a unique and dark YA story to binge, Maelin is a quick and yet incredibly powerful novella about the risks that come with sharing the truth.
Thanks to the author and Lost Island Press for allowing me to beta read and providing me with a free e-ARC!

4.25/5