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Unearthly #2.5
Radiant
From New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Hand comes a riveting original novella (available only as an ebook) set in the world of the Unearthly series.
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.
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.
94 pages, Unknown Binding
First published December 4, 2012
About the author
Cynthia Hand
22 books9,771 followersCynthia Hand is the New York Times bestselling author of several books for teens, including the UNEARTHLY trilogy, THE LAST TIME WE SAY GOODBYE, MY LADY JANE, MY PLAIN JANE, MY CALAMITY JANE, MY CONTRARY MARY, and MY IMAGINARY MARY (with fellow authors Brodi Ashton and Jodi Meadows), THE AFTERLIFE OF HOLLY CHASE, THE HOW AND THE WHY, WITH YOU ALL THE WAY, and the upcoming TIMELESS and MY SALTY MARY (also with Ashton and Meadows). Before turning to writing for young adults, she studied literary fiction and earned both an M.F.A. and a Ph.D. in fiction writing. She currently resides in Boise, Idaho, with her husband, two cats, one crazy dog, two kids, and mountain of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 662 reviews
October 24, 2012
As always, got to rate a five for my own book. And it's pretty dear to my heart. Love writing Angela.
December 6, 2012
Originally posted onYA Fanatic.
I'm torn between giving 4 or 5 stars. I loved it so much. First Destroy Me and now Radiant! You people are trying to kill me! I want,I need Unravel Me and Boundless. Since Unravel Me is pre-ordered I only need to find some money to get Boundless too. Tucker and Warner! All I need to say to you is
*clears throat*
This is mostly Angela’s story but we also have Clara’s POV. We get to see how they spent their summer in Italy before heading out to college. I liked Angela since Unearthly. There is just something in me that makes me love reading about goths and practically everyone who stands out.
Clara is still dealing with her mother’s death, her brother’s disappearance, and her breakup with my fictional boyfriend, Tucker while Angela sees her secret boyfriend, Phen (Penamue). IMO, they make an interesting couple. Since Clara is an empath she gets a glimpse into Phen’s soul and doesn’t like what she sees not because he ‘bad’ or ‘good’ but because he is an angel and apparently angels are incapable of loving people (cause they are God’s creation and they are meant to serve only him, something like that), but they do care, just not enough. So Clara thinks he should stay away from Angela because he will break her heart in the end. Phen is a Intangere (angel with a purpose, dunno exactly what it means) and he basically inspires people to write, compose, draw, etc. He is a nice guy/angel and he is described as looking like Orlando Blood *drools*. He has that Dimitri Belikov quality about him I find incredibly appealing and you can feel that he is helping Angela to grow up as a character. Since Clara doesn’t think hooking up with an angel is a good thing this sets a strain in their friendship so they spend the rest of the summer practically not talking to each other. I am looking forward seeing how will they work things out in Stanford, or will it set them farther apart.
This novella also features a prologue and the first chapter of Boundless which will probably blow my mind away. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw Wendy bringing Clara’s stuff back from Tucker and inside the box there was a copy of Vampire Academy. VA is basically the reason I got into books. Before it, reading was just an obligation. I never knew there is a thing called Young Adult fiction. Well, I did read HP and Twilight but I thought that was just a one/two time thing.
I'm torn between giving 4 or 5 stars. I loved it so much. First Destroy Me and now Radiant! You people are trying to kill me! I want,I need Unravel Me and Boundless. Since Unravel Me is pre-ordered I only need to find some money to get Boundless too. Tucker and Warner! All I need to say to you is
*clears throat*
This is mostly Angela’s story but we also have Clara’s POV. We get to see how they spent their summer in Italy before heading out to college. I liked Angela since Unearthly. There is just something in me that makes me love reading about goths and practically everyone who stands out.
Clara is still dealing with her mother’s death, her brother’s disappearance, and her breakup with my fictional boyfriend, Tucker while Angela sees her secret boyfriend, Phen (Penamue). IMO, they make an interesting couple. Since Clara is an empath she gets a glimpse into Phen’s soul and doesn’t like what she sees not because he ‘bad’ or ‘good’ but because he is an angel and apparently angels are incapable of loving people (cause they are God’s creation and they are meant to serve only him, something like that), but they do care, just not enough. So Clara thinks he should stay away from Angela because he will break her heart in the end. Phen is a Intangere (angel with a purpose, dunno exactly what it means) and he basically inspires people to write, compose, draw, etc. He is a nice guy/angel and he is described as looking like Orlando Blood *drools*. He has that Dimitri Belikov quality about him I find incredibly appealing and you can feel that he is helping Angela to grow up as a character. Since Clara doesn’t think hooking up with an angel is a good thing this sets a strain in their friendship so they spend the rest of the summer practically not talking to each other. I am looking forward seeing how will they work things out in Stanford, or will it set them farther apart.
This novella also features a prologue and the first chapter of Boundless which will probably blow my mind away. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw Wendy bringing Clara’s stuff back from Tucker and inside the box there was a copy of Vampire Academy. VA is basically the reason I got into books. Before it, reading was just an obligation. I never knew there is a thing called Young Adult fiction. Well, I did read HP and Twilight but I thought that was just a one/two time thing.
December 1, 2023
Novella between Hallowed and Boundless about Clara and Angela's summer in Italy together. I never read it the first time I read the series and that was dumb of me because there's some important information in this. Plus it was great to see Angela's perspective on some things. Now it's time to reread Boundless!
January 29, 2013
Update Note : I'm in the middle of book 3 at the moment and can finally confirm that it is not completely necessary to have read this short story before reading book 3. However, there is a huge tie-in of one particular instance which happens in Radiant with something that will take place in Boundless. The situation is explained enough in book 3 to where you can get by if you skip this story, but I liked knowing what happened in Radiant first.
Angel books are probably even worse than vampire books for having to slog through a whole lot of mediocre in order to find the gems.
Truth be told, I tend to prefer the Angelfall style of angel lore... where the vibe is dark and the angels are suspect. I have a harder time with the manufactured sappy-romance type of angel stories.
Thankfully, the Unearthly series is pretty decent for an angel set of books which has more romance than horror. I gave high marks for the first two books and am anxiously awaiting the third.
Radiant is a short story which takes place between books 2 and 3 and the majority of it revolves around Angela. This particular story was just okay - interesting enough, but nothing to find myself excited over. I'm not even sure how necessary it was to the series. Other than getting to find out about an angel living in Italy who drives Angela's passion, we didn't really learn anything else new about information having to do with Clara's story.
All I can think is that this angel will probably show up in future books to help drive the story along, so I guess if you feel the need to know about this character before he's brought back later (even though I'm sure he'll be explained if/when he makes a reappearance), go ahead and read this. It's such a short story that it will only take but a few minutes to read, so you won't be wasting your time even if you don't find out much in the way of new information.
Regardless of how underwhelmed I felt about this side story, the series itself is absolutely worth the read if you enjoy stories of love, destiny, and the journey of one girl to find out who she really is.
Angel books are probably even worse than vampire books for having to slog through a whole lot of mediocre in order to find the gems.
Truth be told, I tend to prefer the Angelfall style of angel lore... where the vibe is dark and the angels are suspect. I have a harder time with the manufactured sappy-romance type of angel stories.
Thankfully, the Unearthly series is pretty decent for an angel set of books which has more romance than horror. I gave high marks for the first two books and am anxiously awaiting the third.
Radiant is a short story which takes place between books 2 and 3 and the majority of it revolves around Angela. This particular story was just okay - interesting enough, but nothing to find myself excited over. I'm not even sure how necessary it was to the series. Other than getting to find out about an angel living in Italy who drives Angela's passion, we didn't really learn anything else new about information having to do with Clara's story.
All I can think is that this angel will probably show up in future books to help drive the story along, so I guess if you feel the need to know about this character before he's brought back later (even though I'm sure he'll be explained if/when he makes a reappearance), go ahead and read this. It's such a short story that it will only take but a few minutes to read, so you won't be wasting your time even if you don't find out much in the way of new information.
Regardless of how underwhelmed I felt about this side story, the series itself is absolutely worth the read if you enjoy stories of love, destiny, and the journey of one girl to find out who she really is.
December 17, 2012
So, is Angela eeeeevil or not? :D Let's hope this answers it.
May 30, 2021
Angela and Clara go to Italy before starting college. This revolves around Angela but we also get Clara's POV. Although it isn't entirely necessary to be read but it does tie-up something that happens later in the series.
Honestly this novella only made Angela seem like a ruthless and a cunning character and Clara even more perfect than she already is. I always found Angela to be an interesting character but this was written for the sole purpose of making Angela look like some idiotic minor who makes stupid and rash decisions. I thought through this novella, we will know more about her which we do in a way but all of that is just negative.
1 star
Honestly this novella only made Angela seem like a ruthless and a cunning character and Clara even more perfect than she already is. I always found Angela to be an interesting character but this was written for the sole purpose of making Angela look like some idiotic minor who makes stupid and rash decisions. I thought through this novella, we will know more about her which we do in a way but all of that is just negative.
1 star
December 19, 2012
Radiant, or how Angela Something about this whole thing is tacky.
January 21, 2013
Radiant was an amazing novella. A lot of times novellas can be disappointing and short, but this isn’t the case here. I highly recommend reading this before reading Boundless, as I think it will be an important piece in the story.
Don’t read this if you haven’t read Hallowed, as it would spoil major plot points.
This takes place just a few short weeks after the events in Hallowed. Clara and Angela are spending the summer in Italy, staying with Angela’s family. Clara is still heartbroken over her mother’s death and Tucker, and can’t get him off of her mind. Angela can’t get her mystery man out of her head, and we finally get some answers to this nagging bit of the puzzle.
I didn’t trust Angela in Hallowed. I always suspected she was hiding something, and this novella sets some things straight in my mind. I want to smack Angela for something she does, because I think it’s going to come back and bite everyone in the behind later. I know, cryptic. Come back to me after you’ve read this and we’ll discuss.
Christian’s presence is, surprisingly very sparse. Hmm…wonder what that says about Clara’s final choice. I guess we’ll all find out very soon! I’m jumping up and down with anxious excitement over the release of Boundless. I want to read it immediately, if not sooner!
Okay, you know I have to give you a swoony quote. It wouldn’t be a “Rachel” review without one. I won’t tell you who it involves. You can try and figure it out on your own:
He kissed me so many times, more than I could count, but each time it was like this wonderful surprise. He always got this I-want-to-kiss-you expression in his eyes, right before he’d draw me in. My throat aches as I remember the agonizing joy of those few seconds before his lips touched mine.
You can read this review and more at The Readers Den.
Don’t read this if you haven’t read Hallowed, as it would spoil major plot points.
This takes place just a few short weeks after the events in Hallowed. Clara and Angela are spending the summer in Italy, staying with Angela’s family. Clara is still heartbroken over her mother’s death and Tucker, and can’t get him off of her mind. Angela can’t get her mystery man out of her head, and we finally get some answers to this nagging bit of the puzzle.
I didn’t trust Angela in Hallowed. I always suspected she was hiding something, and this novella sets some things straight in my mind. I want to smack Angela for something she does, because I think it’s going to come back and bite everyone in the behind later. I know, cryptic. Come back to me after you’ve read this and we’ll discuss.
Christian’s presence is, surprisingly very sparse. Hmm…wonder what that says about Clara’s final choice. I guess we’ll all find out very soon! I’m jumping up and down with anxious excitement over the release of Boundless. I want to read it immediately, if not sooner!
Okay, you know I have to give you a swoony quote. It wouldn’t be a “Rachel” review without one. I won’t tell you who it involves. You can try and figure it out on your own:
He kissed me so many times, more than I could count, but each time it was like this wonderful surprise. He always got this I-want-to-kiss-you expression in his eyes, right before he’d draw me in. My throat aches as I remember the agonizing joy of those few seconds before his lips touched mine.
You can read this review and more at The Readers Den.
January 15, 2018
Well.
Angela is kind of an asshole.
But she's in love and she feels judged. I literally have to keep reminding myself that most people would act the same way if placed in this position.
Honestly, that's something I always fear; that I'll meet someone and I'll project my ideal significant other on that person and think that this person is special when truly the relationship will likely not work out.
Especially because I'm a reader. I have this idea of the kind of person I want that I've built from my book boyfriends, so I'm always worried that if I like someone a little, I'll project my book boyfriends onto him in my mind and make him out to be someone he isn't.
The mind is quite powerful.
That's kind of what Angela was doing. She has this idea about Phen that isn't quite accurate because she didn't really look.
Love made her blind. And then led to other issues.
She's divulging everyone's secrets because she's in looooooove like she should have IDIOT tattooed on her forehead.
And I'm saying this have read most of the third book.
Angela is kind of an asshole.
But she's in love and she feels judged. I literally have to keep reminding myself that most people would act the same way if placed in this position.
Honestly, that's something I always fear; that I'll meet someone and I'll project my ideal significant other on that person and think that this person is special when truly the relationship will likely not work out.
Especially because I'm a reader. I have this idea of the kind of person I want that I've built from my book boyfriends, so I'm always worried that if I like someone a little, I'll project my book boyfriends onto him in my mind and make him out to be someone he isn't.
The mind is quite powerful.
That's kind of what Angela was doing. She has this idea about Phen that isn't quite accurate because she didn't really look.
Love made her blind. And then led to other issues.
She's divulging everyone's secrets because she's in looooooove like she should have IDIOT tattooed on her forehead.
And I'm saying this have read most of the third book.
May 2, 2015
This review is also available over at my blog.
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The first time I heard about Radiant, I was like FINALLY. Because it was about damn time we get to see what's inside Angela's head, and find out who that guy she met was and what really happened between them. So, naturally, I rushed to get this novella on the very day it came out.
Even though this was only a novella and was very short, I still enjoyed it very much. I may be biased because I'm so in love with this series, but I wouldn't love the series so much if I weren't so connected to the characters, and I am. I love Clara and Angela, and I was glad that Cynthia Hand finally wrote something that alternates from both of their points-of-views.
So Clara and Angela are in Italy over the summer, and things are great until Angela starts acting strangely and sneaking out at night. We're finally introduced to Phen, the guy that Angela's kept secret from Clara for quite a long time. And Phen is none other than, an angel! Angela's unsure if she should tell Clara about him or not, because she desperately wants to be with him, even though Phen has made it clear that they can't have anything more than kisses and flings here and there.
This novella was very short, but also heartfelt. I found out things about Angela that I never knew, like how her first kiss was in eighth grade—with Christian! xD I was like whaaat? That was pretty interesting to know. Clara is still all broken and gloomy about her breakup with Tucker, and I don't blame her. I would be too. :/ I mean, it's Tucker freaking Avery.
My overall thoughts on this novella is that I thought it was great! I loved reading from Angela's POV, and the author did a great job in differentiating hers and Clara's voices so that they never felt like they blended together to me. I hope the author will be doing more novellas, like maybe a prequel telling of Clara's mother's story, perhaps? That would be awesome!
At the end of the novella, there's a Boundless excerpt, which I was so excited to read! I just cannot wait for this damn book to be released already. My hopes for it are, well . . . usually I want final books in a series to be explosive and very climactic and all that. But this series to me has always been light and character-driven, so I hope there's only limited amounts of action. Just because it'd feel weird to me, you know? Even though this series is obviously a paranormal series, the way it's written is like a contemporary. So I just feel like if the third book is action-packed, it would feel weird for some reason.
Still, I can't wait! Only a little over a month now 'til it's out. :D If you're anxiously waiting like I am, I suggest you read this novella right away. It'll help ease the pain of waiting for Boundless a little.
_____________________
The first time I heard about Radiant, I was like FINALLY. Because it was about damn time we get to see what's inside Angela's head, and find out who that guy she met was and what really happened between them. So, naturally, I rushed to get this novella on the very day it came out.
Even though this was only a novella and was very short, I still enjoyed it very much. I may be biased because I'm so in love with this series, but I wouldn't love the series so much if I weren't so connected to the characters, and I am. I love Clara and Angela, and I was glad that Cynthia Hand finally wrote something that alternates from both of their points-of-views.
So Clara and Angela are in Italy over the summer, and things are great until Angela starts acting strangely and sneaking out at night. We're finally introduced to Phen, the guy that Angela's kept secret from Clara for quite a long time. And Phen is none other than, an angel! Angela's unsure if she should tell Clara about him or not, because she desperately wants to be with him, even though Phen has made it clear that they can't have anything more than kisses and flings here and there.
This novella was very short, but also heartfelt. I found out things about Angela that I never knew, like how her first kiss was in eighth grade—with Christian! xD I was like whaaat? That was pretty interesting to know. Clara is still all broken and gloomy about her breakup with Tucker, and I don't blame her. I would be too. :/ I mean, it's Tucker freaking Avery.
My overall thoughts on this novella is that I thought it was great! I loved reading from Angela's POV, and the author did a great job in differentiating hers and Clara's voices so that they never felt like they blended together to me. I hope the author will be doing more novellas, like maybe a prequel telling of Clara's mother's story, perhaps? That would be awesome!
At the end of the novella, there's a Boundless excerpt, which I was so excited to read! I just cannot wait for this damn book to be released already. My hopes for it are, well . . . usually I want final books in a series to be explosive and very climactic and all that. But this series to me has always been light and character-driven, so I hope there's only limited amounts of action. Just because it'd feel weird to me, you know? Even though this series is obviously a paranormal series, the way it's written is like a contemporary. So I just feel like if the third book is action-packed, it would feel weird for some reason.
Still, I can't wait! Only a little over a month now 'til it's out. :D If you're anxiously waiting like I am, I suggest you read this novella right away. It'll help ease the pain of waiting for Boundless a little.
June 29, 2014
This was an enjoyable novella telling the tale of Clara and Angela's summer trip to Italy. While there Clara experiences the first of her new visions. We also get to meet Angela's mystery boy, Phen.
The Angela/Phen relationship was intriguing and definitely the best part of this novella. Phen is a fascinating character. I'm dying to learn more about him. Clara's reaction to the romance is also quite interesting.
I loved that this switched between Clara and Angela's POV. It was great to learn more about Angela and to see this world from eyes other than Clara's.
All in all this was a worthwhile read that has boosted my interest in reading Boundless.
Rating 3.5 stars
The Angela/Phen relationship was intriguing and definitely the best part of this novella. Phen is a fascinating character. I'm dying to learn more about him. Clara's reaction to the romance is also quite interesting.
I loved that this switched between Clara and Angela's POV. It was great to learn more about Angela and to see this world from eyes other than Clara's.
All in all this was a worthwhile read that has boosted my interest in reading Boundless.
Rating 3.5 stars
January 25, 2013
As this fantastic series is coming to an end, I decided I would actually go ahead and read its novellas as well--a rarity for me, which is a good sign you need to read this series if you haven't yet! Plus, I kind of don't want it to end, so I'm doing all I can to stretch it out.
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 Cythia 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!
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
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 Cythia 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!
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For more of my reviews, visit my blog at Xpresso Reads
April 30, 2016
This review is also posted on my blog, Anatea's Bookshelf.
Since we still have a little more than a month until Boundless, book #3 comes out, I was sooo happy when I found out about Radiant!
I love being back in this world! This is more Angela's story, but we also have Clara's POV. I really enjoyed Radiant because it focuses on Angela and her mystery guy *squeal*, even though I kinda missed having Tucker and Christian in here.
Angela and Clara are spending their summer in Italy before they go to college. They're researching Angel related stuff, but one day they see Angela's mystery guy in metro and the story get's quite interesting. His name is Phen (Penamue) and he's an Angel. Yes, you heard it right! But he's an Intangere which means he's not on the side of good nor bad angels. He's Switzerland. Oh, and he looks like Orlando Bloom *wiggle eyes* I like him, and I think he and Angela make a really cute couple! But that makes one of us. Since Clara is an empath, she can see how he really feels about Angela, and she's not quite fond of the idea her best friend dating an Angel.
I can't wait to read Boundless now to find out more about Phen, and of course to see with whom will Clara end up.
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Since we still have a little more than a month until Boundless, book #3 comes out, I was sooo happy when I found out about Radiant!
I love being back in this world! This is more Angela's story, but we also have Clara's POV. I really enjoyed Radiant because it focuses on Angela and her mystery guy *squeal*, even though I kinda missed having Tucker and Christian in here.
Angela and Clara are spending their summer in Italy before they go to college. They're researching Angel related stuff, but one day they see Angela's mystery guy in metro and the story get's quite interesting. His name is Phen (Penamue) and he's an Angel. Yes, you heard it right! But he's an Intangere which means he's not on the side of good nor bad angels. He's Switzerland. Oh, and he looks like Orlando Bloom *wiggle eyes* I like him, and I think he and Angela make a really cute couple! But that makes one of us. Since Clara is an empath, she can see how he really feels about Angela, and she's not quite fond of the idea her best friend dating an Angel.
I can't wait to read Boundless now to find out more about Phen, and of course to see with whom will Clara end up.
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Want to read
October 19, 2012Angela & Clara! I need this novella in my life, like, now.
Want to read
December 4, 2012UGH!!!!!!! Why is this only in ebook form? I demand a hardcover! :'(
Update 12/4/12:
IT SHALL BE READ TODAY!!! <3
Update 12/4/12:
IT SHALL BE READ TODAY!!! <3
July 18, 2017
I enjoyed reading from Angela's POV and I'm curious what happens next.
December 8, 2014
This short story is quite confusing.
I always liked Angela (I still do) but now I am not sure about her anymore.
I liked her optimism and her pretty white wings were suposed to reflect her pure soul.
I wonder what will happen that will change things.. because I am sure that things will drastically change.
Also I didn't see all that jealousy coming, maybe because I liked her so much. Yes, she had this all mystery around her, knowing things that others didn't, pushing for finding out secrets, but still this caught me by surprise.
Maybe I should read the first 2 books again and see what I've missed because Cynthia doesn't throw things at you just for the fun of it. Her story is well crafted to the very last detail and I am wondering where all this came from.
To say a few words about the novella, we find Clara and Angela spending summer in Italy. There is not much really happening, but I liked finding more about Angela, her "summer boyfriend" (Phen) and a bit of his secrets, and it was nice meeting Clara even though she is heartbroken and confused - more than she's ever been.
Now, I said jealousy, but I hope you don't get me wrong, I didn't mean regarding Phen (I still wish for Clara to find someone else, because the old love-triangle is not appealing to me any longer, but that's just wistful thinking - it won't happen, don't you worry about that).
Angela even wanted them to spend time together, wanted Clara to like Phen, to aprove maybe of Angela's relationship with him. What comes between the girls is something that might grow in the next book and I wonder when it started.
I fear that Boundless will break many hearts, I fear especially for mine.
Take care of yours too ;)
Happy reading and happy holidays!
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I always liked Angela (I still do) but now I am not sure about her anymore.
I liked her optimism and her pretty white wings were suposed to reflect her pure soul.
I wonder what will happen that will change things.. because I am sure that things will drastically change.
Also I didn't see all that jealousy coming, maybe because I liked her so much. Yes, she had this all mystery around her, knowing things that others didn't, pushing for finding out secrets, but still this caught me by surprise.
Maybe I should read the first 2 books again and see what I've missed because Cynthia doesn't throw things at you just for the fun of it. Her story is well crafted to the very last detail and I am wondering where all this came from.
To say a few words about the novella, we find Clara and Angela spending summer in Italy. There is not much really happening, but I liked finding more about Angela, her "summer boyfriend" (Phen) and a bit of his secrets, and it was nice meeting Clara even though she is heartbroken and confused - more than she's ever been.
Now, I said jealousy, but I hope you don't get me wrong, I didn't mean regarding Phen (I still wish for Clara to find someone else, because the old love-triangle is not appealing to me any longer, but that's just wistful thinking - it won't happen, don't you worry about that).
Angela even wanted them to spend time together, wanted Clara to like Phen, to aprove maybe of Angela's relationship with him. What comes between the girls is something that might grow in the next book and I wonder when it started.
I fear that Boundless will break many hearts, I fear especially for mine.
Take care of yours too ;)
Happy reading and happy holidays!
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August 26, 2017
This is a short novella about Clara's and Angela's summer vacation in Italy before college. The best part of it is that we finally get a look inside Angela's head and her mystery man. For once, Clara seem to be focused on her friend and not her own misfortunes which was a pleasant switch from her insistent self-pity in "Hallowed".
Her new vision is a troubling one and after that last sentence I'm really curious about what Cynthia Hand has up her sleeve for "Boundless".
Her new vision is a troubling one and after that last sentence I'm really curious about what Cynthia Hand has up her sleeve for "Boundless".
December 6, 2012
Wow, I really didn't like Angela in this. She's one of THOSE friends. You know the type...the girl that's jealous of her supposed best friend and acts in petty ways to undermine her friend. I always preferred Wendy over Angela as a friend for Clara, but after reading Angela's point of view? WOW, she's a terrible friend to Clara. And the whole
I'm still beyond excited for Boundless, but this lacked everything I love about this series... (cough, Tucker, cough).
I'm still beyond excited for Boundless, but this lacked everything I love about this series... (cough, Tucker, cough).
December 14, 2012
Three Stars: A short novella that gives more insight into Angela.
Angela and Clara are spending the summer in Italy. For Clara, it is a chance to get away from Tucker and Christian and her grief. Angela returns to spend the summer with her Italian family, but she longs to see the one man who set her heart a fire two summers ago. Except the one who has her heart isn't a man, he is an angel and he ended up breaking her heart. Paths led back to Phen and Angela finds herself once again enamored with the forbidden love, despite all of her mother's teachings she has fallen head over heels in love. Clara meets this mysterious lover and all of her instincts are screaming that he is not good for Angela. Will Angela's romantic choice spell treachery for their friendship?
What I Liked:
I am a big fan of the Unearthly Series and I was excited to get a little teaser before the finale Unbounded releases at the end of January. This novella is a quick read and it provides some helpful insight into Angela's character and also gives a little more information on angel lore.
I have always been curious about Angela and I have had my theories regarding her character.... bottom line, I have never trusted her and I don't think all of her motives are good, and this book helped me solidify my views.
At the end of this book there is a brief sneak peek for Unbounded and I a more than excited to read that book!
And The Not So Much:
The problem I have with novellas is that I never feel like they are enough. This was a very quick read. A total of 80 pages and I read it in less than an hour. It always feels like the story is just getting started and then it ends. This is the case with this novella. Just as the story line is picking up it finishes with a jarring line that leaves me troubled over the impending events in Unbounded.
I am used to Clara's voice and while this book had a dual narrative between Clara and Angela, I felt like I gained nothing from Clara's perspective except her feelings regarding Angela's boyfriend. She is still very troubled over her love life and her loss but there is very little discussion on either topic. I was hoping for more from her.
While I gained some information regarding Angela, this novella did nothing to change my view on her character for the better. I still do not think she is a good influence on Clara and I think she will ultimately betray her.
If you are a fan of The Unearthly Series you should check this out so you will know the backstory regarding Angela's love affair in Italy, but I can't promise you that you will finish it and be satisfied. There is a sneak peek for Unbounded that will make you eager for its release, but don't expect Clara to have a big role in this one. I am glad I read it, but I can't help feeling a bit disappointed because I wanted more.
Favorite Quotations:
“My mother always says that love is like a snakebite, a venom slowly spreading through your veins”
“I knew the moment I saw him that he was the one I was waiting for. The one whose kiss would make me see stars.
Someone remarkable.”
“He was gazing at me like I was a butterfly trapped in his net, like he was tempted to pin me up behind glass even though he knew he should let me fly away.”
Posted@ Rainy Day Ramblings
Angela and Clara are spending the summer in Italy. For Clara, it is a chance to get away from Tucker and Christian and her grief. Angela returns to spend the summer with her Italian family, but she longs to see the one man who set her heart a fire two summers ago. Except the one who has her heart isn't a man, he is an angel and he ended up breaking her heart. Paths led back to Phen and Angela finds herself once again enamored with the forbidden love, despite all of her mother's teachings she has fallen head over heels in love. Clara meets this mysterious lover and all of her instincts are screaming that he is not good for Angela. Will Angela's romantic choice spell treachery for their friendship?
What I Liked:
I am a big fan of the Unearthly Series and I was excited to get a little teaser before the finale Unbounded releases at the end of January. This novella is a quick read and it provides some helpful insight into Angela's character and also gives a little more information on angel lore.
I have always been curious about Angela and I have had my theories regarding her character.... bottom line, I have never trusted her and I don't think all of her motives are good, and this book helped me solidify my views.
At the end of this book there is a brief sneak peek for Unbounded and I a more than excited to read that book!
And The Not So Much:
The problem I have with novellas is that I never feel like they are enough. This was a very quick read. A total of 80 pages and I read it in less than an hour. It always feels like the story is just getting started and then it ends. This is the case with this novella. Just as the story line is picking up it finishes with a jarring line that leaves me troubled over the impending events in Unbounded.
I am used to Clara's voice and while this book had a dual narrative between Clara and Angela, I felt like I gained nothing from Clara's perspective except her feelings regarding Angela's boyfriend. She is still very troubled over her love life and her loss but there is very little discussion on either topic. I was hoping for more from her.
While I gained some information regarding Angela, this novella did nothing to change my view on her character for the better. I still do not think she is a good influence on Clara and I think she will ultimately betray her.
If you are a fan of The Unearthly Series you should check this out so you will know the backstory regarding Angela's love affair in Italy, but I can't promise you that you will finish it and be satisfied. There is a sneak peek for Unbounded that will make you eager for its release, but don't expect Clara to have a big role in this one. I am glad I read it, but I can't help feeling a bit disappointed because I wanted more.
Favorite Quotations:
“My mother always says that love is like a snakebite, a venom slowly spreading through your veins”
“I knew the moment I saw him that he was the one I was waiting for. The one whose kiss would make me see stars.
Someone remarkable.”
“He was gazing at me like I was a butterfly trapped in his net, like he was tempted to pin me up behind glass even though he knew he should let me fly away.”
Posted@ Rainy Day Ramblings
August 17, 2014
OMG, WHAT? That was so so good! I can't wait for the last book to come out. Im really, reaaaaaaally, hoping that she ends up with Christian, because honestly guys Tucker is great but Christian is PERFECT for her. He belongs to same world than her, he understands her, and he is cute and funny. He kind of messed up a bit at first, but if it wasn't for that short summer she wouldn't have gotten involved with Tucker! *cries*
That Prologue and the first chapter of next book...
I mean, WHAT? The waiting is k i l l i n g m e !
And oh, the rest of the story was fine too.
Just kidding! I thought it was great to finally get a peak into Angela's thoughts. I honestly don't like her that much, I feel like she can be very poisonous and envious. At first I was like, "Girl, are you sleeping with that old guy?" But then I was like... Well, OK, it first happened when you were 18, STILL, it's weird. And the way she put on lingerie and showed up at his place, I was like WHAAT! Hahahaha. I really did laugh my ass off with that scene.
Basically, Got loads and loads of fun reading this short book!
Seriously, Cynthia Hand is one of my favorites authors right now!
That Prologue and the first chapter of next book...
I mean, WHAT? The waiting is k i l l i n g m e !
And oh, the rest of the story was fine too.
Just kidding! I thought it was great to finally get a peak into Angela's thoughts. I honestly don't like her that much, I feel like she can be very poisonous and envious. At first I was like, "Girl, are you sleeping with that old guy?" But then I was like... Well, OK, it first happened when you were 18, STILL, it's weird. And the way she put on lingerie and showed up at his place, I was like WHAAT! Hahahaha. I really did laugh my ass off with that scene.
Basically, Got loads and loads of fun reading this short book!
Seriously, Cynthia Hand is one of my favorites authors right now!
January 20, 2013
I have a feeling that Phen is going to play an important role in Book 3, so it was good to be introduced to him and learn about how he found out about Clara. I think makes me not dislike him as much as Clara does.
BUT, the reason I'm giving it 2 stars instead of 3 stars is because 1) Angela infuriates me and 2) I still have leftover animosity for Clara and her decision at the end of Book 2. And the way she was brooding about it in this novella just made me want to tear her hair out - not mine since she made me bald after Book 2.
No, I'm not over it, yet. And I really, really hope Hand makes up for it in Book 3 - though I was just told that Christian is supposed to grow on you. I don't want to like Christian. Please don't make me like Christian. I think I would resent him more if Hand tried to make me like him. :( Two more days before Boundless' release.
BUT, the reason I'm giving it 2 stars instead of 3 stars is because 1) Angela infuriates me and 2) I still have leftover animosity for Clara and her decision at the end of Book 2. And the way she was brooding about it in this novella just made me want to tear her hair out - not mine since she made me bald after Book 2.
No, I'm not over it, yet. And I really, really hope Hand makes up for it in Book 3 - though I was just told that Christian is supposed to grow on you. I don't want to like Christian. Please don't make me like Christian. I think I would resent him more if Hand tried to make me like him. :( Two more days before Boundless' release.
December 7, 2012
This was great to ease my anxiety towards Boundless, but I think now I want book 3 even more!!
So excited!! The release date can´t come soon enough!
January 3, 2013
I can't say enough great things about Cynthia Hand's fabulous writing, but I will say that if you're already two books deep into this series, you
MUST
read this novella. Radiant is split between both Clara and Angela's (!) points-of-view, and it is done with such ease that it's almost as if you're having a conversation with the two girls. But what you really take away from this short story is a little better insight into Angela's character, as well as the introduction of a new character who may become very important in the final chapter of Clara's story.
*Sigh* I like Angela's character. I do. But I've never fully trusted her. She frequently admonished her fellow angel-bloods for keeping secrets, spouting, "No secrets in Angel Club." But she was never very forthcoming with details on her mysterious romance in Italy, nor the source of all of her information regarding the angel-bloods. True to form, she continues to be vague and only divulges what is absolutely necessary to Clara when mystery man's identity is revealed. Yet it's not secrecy but an act of ultimate betrayal that may be the demise of her friendship with Clara...or worse.
Clara's point-of-view in Radiant is just so sad. She's dwelling on all she's lost...all the people she's lost in only a matter of months, and not even the beauty of Rome can ease her troubled mind. After the events in Hallowed, it was obvious she would need time to heal -- don't we all?!? -- but a summer away from everything isn't going to be enough, especially when Angela has given her new reasons to worry. I'm worried, too, after that seriously foreboding last line.
If I wasn't already anticipating the release of Boundless, this novella would have made sure I was. That tease of Boundless at the end didn't help matters either. Now I just want to sleep until the release of the last novel in the series. I'm afraid I might need to take a week off work, too, when it's released. If memory serves, I could have used some time to myself after Hallowed, and I'm afraid things aren't going to be any easier after Boundless.
This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.
*Sigh* I like Angela's character. I do. But I've never fully trusted her. She frequently admonished her fellow angel-bloods for keeping secrets, spouting, "No secrets in Angel Club." But she was never very forthcoming with details on her mysterious romance in Italy, nor the source of all of her information regarding the angel-bloods. True to form, she continues to be vague and only divulges what is absolutely necessary to Clara when mystery man's identity is revealed. Yet it's not secrecy but an act of ultimate betrayal that may be the demise of her friendship with Clara...or worse.
Clara's point-of-view in Radiant is just so sad. She's dwelling on all she's lost...all the people she's lost in only a matter of months, and not even the beauty of Rome can ease her troubled mind. After the events in Hallowed, it was obvious she would need time to heal -- don't we all?!? -- but a summer away from everything isn't going to be enough, especially when Angela has given her new reasons to worry. I'm worried, too, after that seriously foreboding last line.
If I wasn't already anticipating the release of Boundless, this novella would have made sure I was. That tease of Boundless at the end didn't help matters either. Now I just want to sleep until the release of the last novel in the series. I'm afraid I might need to take a week off work, too, when it's released. If memory serves, I could have used some time to myself after Hallowed, and I'm afraid things aren't going to be any easier after Boundless.
This review can also be found at The Starry-Eyed Revue.
December 11, 2012
Spoilers
I thought this novella would only be in Angela's POV, unfortunately Clara also narrated some chapters..Ugh.
Anyway, Angela and Clara are on holiday in Italy or Canada (I forgot). I was expecting the two of them to get up to all sorts but naturally they can't have some good old fashioned fun girly time or crazy mad adventure together, instead they both spend their holiday obsessed and swooning over their respective guys. Clara spent most of her holiday moaning about Tucker and how much she misses and wuvs him. Er, why did you dump him for Christian then you dumb bitch?! And Angela spent ALL her time whinging about some angel douche she met two years ago, and like all heroines she hasn't been able to move on from him because apparently girls don't possess the ability to move on from douche guys even if they've not seen said guy for years.
I liked Angela in the novels but not so much after her novella. I have no respect for a girl that refuses to move on from 1. A guy she fancied years ago 2. A guy that she didn't actually date 3. A guy that told her to basically fuck off. Yea, Angela's more dumber and more pathetic than Clara. At least I could see why Clara would fall for Tucker and even eventually Christian but Angela was a silly cow falling for Phen when he so clearly wasn't interested in her.
I was pissed that Angela betrayed Clara, she was such a bitch. I don't think it was an accident that she told Phen Clara's secret, she did it on purpose because Clara wasn't fawning all over her fella. I hope she has her heart broken in the next book, I'm sure Phen will turn up in it since it's been heavily hinted that he's more or less evul and wants to do something bad to Clara.
Clara was whiny but I have to admit I liked how she looked out for Angela. I just wished she hadn't been such a morose cow about her wuv life.
I didn't like the few times Angela or Clara called or implied some girl or each other a slut.
I'll definitely be reading the final book even though Clara's an idiot and I loathe Christian, I'm still hoping that Clara will come to her senses and choose Tucker or at least play the field instead of settling for that loser Christian.
I thought this novella would only be in Angela's POV, unfortunately Clara also narrated some chapters..Ugh.
Anyway, Angela and Clara are on holiday in Italy or Canada (I forgot). I was expecting the two of them to get up to all sorts but naturally they can't have some good old fashioned fun girly time or crazy mad adventure together, instead they both spend their holiday obsessed and swooning over their respective guys. Clara spent most of her holiday moaning about Tucker and how much she misses and wuvs him. Er, why did you dump him for Christian then you dumb bitch?! And Angela spent ALL her time whinging about some angel douche she met two years ago, and like all heroines she hasn't been able to move on from him because apparently girls don't possess the ability to move on from douche guys even if they've not seen said guy for years.
I liked Angela in the novels but not so much after her novella. I have no respect for a girl that refuses to move on from 1. A guy she fancied years ago 2. A guy that she didn't actually date 3. A guy that told her to basically fuck off. Yea, Angela's more dumber and more pathetic than Clara. At least I could see why Clara would fall for Tucker and even eventually Christian but Angela was a silly cow falling for Phen when he so clearly wasn't interested in her.
I was pissed that Angela betrayed Clara, she was such a bitch. I don't think it was an accident that she told Phen Clara's secret, she did it on purpose because Clara wasn't fawning all over her fella. I hope she has her heart broken in the next book, I'm sure Phen will turn up in it since it's been heavily hinted that he's more or less evul and wants to do something bad to Clara.
Clara was whiny but I have to admit I liked how she looked out for Angela. I just wished she hadn't been such a morose cow about her wuv life.
I didn't like the few times Angela or Clara called or implied some girl or each other a slut.
I'll definitely be reading the final book even though Clara's an idiot and I loathe Christian, I'm still hoping that Clara will come to her senses and choose Tucker or at least play the field instead of settling for that loser Christian.
December 8, 2012
Angela and Clara are spending the summer in Italy with Angela's family. Clara has been having more visions and Angela is sneaking out to meet with a mysterious stranger.
Okay...I was really hoping to get more answers with this novella (especially about Angela) but all I'm left with is more questions!! I did like getting both Angela's and Clara's POV and I guess it did help a bit to get into what they were thinking.
Angela's mysterious stranger is quite intriguing in several different ways. I liked seeing the softer side of Angela with him but who knows what this will mean for the future?? I also enjoyed getting more Angel information but that lead to even more questions about the stranger. And now that he has found out some key information, what will he do with it?
We get a bit more about Clara's vision but obviously at this point, we don't know what is going to happen besides it's happening at Stanford. There is an excerpt for Boundless to help tide you over till January.
Okay...I was really hoping to get more answers with this novella (especially about Angela) but all I'm left with is more questions!! I did like getting both Angela's and Clara's POV and I guess it did help a bit to get into what they were thinking.
Angela's mysterious stranger is quite intriguing in several different ways. I liked seeing the softer side of Angela with him but who knows what this will mean for the future?? I also enjoyed getting more Angel information but that lead to even more questions about the stranger. And now that he has found out some key information, what will he do with it?
We get a bit more about Clara's vision but obviously at this point, we don't know what is going to happen besides it's happening at Stanford. There is an excerpt for Boundless to help tide you over till January.
January 13, 2020
2.5 stars
December 4, 2012
I enjoyed being back in this world! I loved Hallowed and I didn't realize how much I really missed this series until I read this novella. The end of Hallowed left me wanting Boundless, and now that I've read Radiant I'm dying to get my hands on the last installment in this series. This isn't a story that centers on Tucker or Christian. Yes, these two are mentioned through out the story, but this storyline focuses on Clara and Angela's visit to Italy, which takes place between Hallowed and Boundless.
Clara's heartbreak and grieving from the events that unfolded at the end of Hallowed are present in this book, as is something a little sinister. There's something that doesn't add up with how Angela is acting, nor does everything feel right with the introduction of Phen, Angela's fling. There's a lot more to Phen than I'm going to mention here, so that it stays a surprise. Let's just say I'm really curious to find out if I'm right about what I think is going happen in Boundless with Phen's role in this book. I really wanted to like Angela more, but man alive this girl has some issues she needs to work out. I have a feeling that my hunch about her is going to be right as well.
Cynthia did a great job with making me wonder which side Angela is going to take, the good or the bad side. Right now I'm torn on which path I think she'll choose. It's apparent there's something not right with her, and having Phen in the picture only adds to my hunches. I have a feeling there's going to be a few surprising twists and a bit of heartbreak in Boundless. I can not wait to read it.
Clara's heartbreak and grieving from the events that unfolded at the end of Hallowed are present in this book, as is something a little sinister. There's something that doesn't add up with how Angela is acting, nor does everything feel right with the introduction of Phen, Angela's fling. There's a lot more to Phen than I'm going to mention here, so that it stays a surprise. Let's just say I'm really curious to find out if I'm right about what I think is going happen in Boundless with Phen's role in this book. I really wanted to like Angela more, but man alive this girl has some issues she needs to work out. I have a feeling that my hunch about her is going to be right as well.
Cynthia did a great job with making me wonder which side Angela is going to take, the good or the bad side. Right now I'm torn on which path I think she'll choose. It's apparent there's something not right with her, and having Phen in the picture only adds to my hunches. I have a feeling there's going to be a few surprising twists and a bit of heartbreak in Boundless. I can not wait to read it.
December 11, 2012
Radiant is a good addition to the Unearthly series. It takes place after the events of Hallowed and bridges to the next release, Boundless. In Radiant, Clara and Angela are spending the summer in Rome, with Angela’s extended family. Clara is still very much recovering from the traumas she suffered at the end of Hallowed, and Jeffrey is nowhere to be seen. She is grieving and needs something to take her mind off her troubles.
Angela comes through with a very strange reaction to a mysterious man on the train one day, which Clara immediately works out is the man Angela fell in love with the previous summer, although Angela says nothing. What follows is a little sneaking around by Angela, and then a rather satisfying character reveal. I won’t spoil it at all by naming the guy, but he really adds to the story, and pushes the world of Angel Bloods out a little for Clara... she learns a little more, and makes a few more realizations.
I liked that we got to understand Angela more through Radiant. She has always been the sort of character that demands information from Clara without revealing much herself, but now I feel like I understand her a lot more.
I read this novella in a quite short time, but I think that fans of this excellent series won’t be disappointed if they invest in Radiant – I certainly wasn’t at all!
Angela comes through with a very strange reaction to a mysterious man on the train one day, which Clara immediately works out is the man Angela fell in love with the previous summer, although Angela says nothing. What follows is a little sneaking around by Angela, and then a rather satisfying character reveal. I won’t spoil it at all by naming the guy, but he really adds to the story, and pushes the world of Angel Bloods out a little for Clara... she learns a little more, and makes a few more realizations.
I liked that we got to understand Angela more through Radiant. She has always been the sort of character that demands information from Clara without revealing much herself, but now I feel like I understand her a lot more.
I read this novella in a quite short time, but I think that fans of this excellent series won’t be disappointed if they invest in Radiant – I certainly wasn’t at all!
September 4, 2020
I enjoyed hearing Angela’s voice. It’s like what I thought the Delirium novella would be like, except there I found Lena really boring and petty. Angela’s complicated and she provides some insight into Clara and herself.
The story with her love…it doesn’t surprise me, and it gives another flavor of love to the series. But I found the 2nd book to be too drenched in love triangle-ing to the point of derailing the plot a bit, and this romance isn’t that original either. Hopefully the (presumable) addition of her guy to the third book will be non-cloying, and what we learn about him here will make this novella seem necessary to fully understanding the last book, which I am more excited about thanks to Radiant. Especially with the purposefully titillating ending.
A few good quotes, all from Angela’s point of view:
The story with her love…it doesn’t surprise me, and it gives another flavor of love to the series. But I found the 2nd book to be too drenched in love triangle-ing to the point of derailing the plot a bit, and this romance isn’t that original either. Hopefully the (presumable) addition of her guy to the third book will be non-cloying, and what we learn about him here will make this novella seem necessary to fully understanding the last book, which I am more excited about thanks to Radiant. Especially with the purposefully titillating ending.
A few good quotes, all from Angela’s point of view:
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