Publication date: December 4th 2012
by HarperTeen
Clara is desperate to get away—from the memories that haunt her in Wyoming and the visions of a future she isn’t ready to face—and spending the summer in Italy with her best friend, Angela, should be the perfect escape. . . .
For as long as she can remember, Angela has been told that love is dangerous, that she must always guard her heart. But when she met a mysterious guy in Italy two years ago she was determined to be with him, no matter the costs. Now she must decide whether she can trust Clara with her secret, or if telling her the truth will risk everything she cares about.
Alternating between Angela and Clara’s perspectives, Radiant chronicles the unforgettable summer that will test the bounds of their friendship and change their lives forever.
A far as novellas go, Radiant was a gratifying journey into Angela’s love life. Angela is a character I both adored and questioned in the previous book, thus I was excited to learn this novella would bring us into her life and show us a bit more about who she really is. After reading this short but worthy novella, I do feel that I know her a little better. Her motivations for her secrecy is made obvious once you find out who this love interest is.
We’re not left wondering how Clara will react, however, as we get her perspective alongside Angela’s in this story. It was good to see her again after the events of the last book, it was also interesting to see her reactions to this relationship. I’m always happy when a protagonist is conscious of the potential lies or betrayals that her or her friends might have on their plate. The characters are the main reason I’ve greatly been enjoying this series, after all.
I’m not sure how Cynthia plans to bring in the subject of this relationship in the third novel for those who haven’t read this novella, but I do think it would be a good idea to read it before the finale so you have a better grasp on Angela’s feelings as well as Clara’s towards this matter. Plus, we’re introduced to a character whom I’m assuming will become a big part of the final installment.
Overall, I give this novella two thumbs up for entertaining me for half an hour! < —
This is not as easy as you might think! |
| 4 Hot Espressos |
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Mary @ BookSwarm
So you’re not among the easily entertained? Heh. Always good when a novella keeps you interested
Amy
I am so glad that I read this before Boundless. Though I don’t find it necessary, it definitely makes things a whole lot clearer when certain things are mentioned and when other things happen. And you are right, Angela is a huge part of Boundless. I mean they go to Sanford for her vision so it only makes sense that she would be. You are going to love what Cynthia hand did with the last book.
Kathy Ann Coleman
Hmm… Maybe I will give this series another go. I was kinda hot and cold about half way through book one, but if I still have it here (somewhere…) it couldn’t hurt.
Jenea Whittington
I can not wait to read Boundless!!! I’ll have to read this before I do though. Great review. Off to find it. 🙂
Jenea @ Books Live Forever
Nereyda @Mostly YA Book Obsessed
I like novellas, especially the ones between series. Unfortunately Angela always got on my nerves so this one didn’t interest me much. Does this mean you are reading Boundless soon?
Team Tucker or Team Christian???
Book Passion for Life
Lovely review hun! I went to start this the other day but I wasn’t in the mood. Soooo Team Tucker though. Hopefully I’ll find the time soon.
Camille Picott
I haven’t heard of this series. Pretty covers! Does this novella have a paranormal element? Doesn’t sound like it from the description.
Kaina
I read Unearthly a loong time ago and remember enjoying it, might have to pick up the series again though. Great review! 😀
Jennifer Messerschmidt
I like novellas especially when we get an extra peak into a character that doesn’t have a POV in the series. It was good to finally see Angela’s secret boyfriend but I’ve never been a big fan of her. It did help me understand Boundless a bit better so I’m glad I read it.
Kelly @ Dandelion Dreams
Pretty sure I’m going to read this now after reading your review! I love this series and I definitely don’t want to miss anything!
Savannah Bookswithbite
YES! I so need to check this out. I also have Boundless I still need to read. Nice review.
Carina
I really need to buy both the novella and the third book, so I can finish this über-awesome series. So glad you enjoyed this tiny installment – and thanks for reminding me that I really need to get back to these books. 😉
Carina
Fictional Distraction