What do you think?
Rate this book
Radiant Darkness
He smiles. “Hello.”
It’s a deep voice. I can feel it reverberate in my chest and echo all the way down to my toes.
I know I should leave, but I don't want to. I want to keep my senses like this forever. I’m all eye, all ear, all skin.
Persephone lives in the most gorgeous place in the world. But her mother’s a goddess, as overprotective as she is powerful. Paradise has become a trap. Just when Persephone feels there’s no chance of escaping the life that’s been planned for her, a mysterious stranger arrives. A stranger who promises something more—something dangerous and exciting—something that spurs Persephone to make a daring choice. A choice that could destroy all she’s come to love, even the earth itself. In a land where a singing river can make you forget your very name, Persephone is forced to discover who—and what—she really is.
It’s a deep voice. I can feel it reverberate in my chest and echo all the way down to my toes.
I know I should leave, but I don't want to. I want to keep my senses like this forever. I’m all eye, all ear, all skin.
Persephone lives in the most gorgeous place in the world. But her mother’s a goddess, as overprotective as she is powerful. Paradise has become a trap. Just when Persephone feels there’s no chance of escaping the life that’s been planned for her, a mysterious stranger arrives. A stranger who promises something more—something dangerous and exciting—something that spurs Persephone to make a daring choice. A choice that could destroy all she’s come to love, even the earth itself. In a land where a singing river can make you forget your very name, Persephone is forced to discover who—and what—she really is.
187 pages, ebook
First published April 28, 2009
28 people are currently reading
5529 people want to read
About the author
Emily Whitman
6 books121 followersIn Emily Whitman’s novels for kids and teens, myth and magic are part of everyday life. The Turning, based on Celtic folklore, is a Junior Library Guild selection. Radiant Darkness was number one on the IndieBound Kid’s Next List. Wildwing won the Oregon Book Award and was a Bankstreet College Best Children’s Book. Emily grew up in Colorado and studied history at Harvard and UC Berkeley. She's worked in bookstores and behind library reference desks. Emily loves researching her books, whether by mining library treasures or learning to fly falcons. She lives with her family in Portland, Oregon. Come visit her at emilywhitman.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews
December 10, 2010
Persephone is trapped in the vale. OK, the vale is filled with beautiful flowers and rich greenery and her best friends, but still . . . trapped is trapped.
Especially when your mother is a Greek goddess.
But then HE arrives. At the reins of a speeding chariot. Behind a horse dark as night. He doesn’t care about her mother. He listens to Persephone. And he may be her only chance for escape.
So she takes it. Straight to Hades.
I loved the vibrance in this book. Persephone is very much the teller of her own tale—as opinionated and brilliant, changeable and naïve as today’s teenagers. Radiant Darkness is an entertaining spin on the Greek myth of Persephone and Demeter, with a truly unique version of the Underworld. The image of Cerberus bounding like a puppy is well worth the read all on its own!
Especially when your mother is a Greek goddess.
But then HE arrives. At the reins of a speeding chariot. Behind a horse dark as night. He doesn’t care about her mother. He listens to Persephone. And he may be her only chance for escape.
So she takes it. Straight to Hades.
I loved the vibrance in this book. Persephone is very much the teller of her own tale—as opinionated and brilliant, changeable and naïve as today’s teenagers. Radiant Darkness is an entertaining spin on the Greek myth of Persephone and Demeter, with a truly unique version of the Underworld. The image of Cerberus bounding like a puppy is well worth the read all on its own!
March 26, 2009
In this stunning debut, Whiteman elaborates on the myth often called The Rape of Persephone. Whiteman’s Persephone however, is not the damsel in distress that you often find in the traditional myth. What sets Whiteman’s Persephone apart is that everything that happens to her is by her own choice.
Tired of being treated like a child and ignored by her mother the goddess Demeter, Persephone silently rebels against her mother who refuses to acknowledge that her daughter is no longer a child, but a young woman. When Hades appears to Persephone in the protected vale Demeter has created, Persephone finally has someone who treats her as an adult rather than a child. Hades offers her the choice to stay in the vale or become his queen, and Persephone makes her choice. What follows is the story of how Persephone transitions from self absorbed child to a caring and determined young woman and finally to a radiant queen.
Radiant Darkness was a quick read. I have always loved mythology and truly enjoyed this version of the story. It was engaging from the beginning. Although I felt that it took Persephone a little too long to catch on to both her husband and her mother’s desire for more power, the story is still entertaining. Persephone’s chafing at the beginning under her mother’s over-protectiveness will be something that teens ready to experience their own independence will easily empathize with.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Cautions for sensitive readers: Persephone is married to Hades, but nothing that happens in the bedroom is shown—everything regarding sex happens off screen. There is no language and no violence.
Tired of being treated like a child and ignored by her mother the goddess Demeter, Persephone silently rebels against her mother who refuses to acknowledge that her daughter is no longer a child, but a young woman. When Hades appears to Persephone in the protected vale Demeter has created, Persephone finally has someone who treats her as an adult rather than a child. Hades offers her the choice to stay in the vale or become his queen, and Persephone makes her choice. What follows is the story of how Persephone transitions from self absorbed child to a caring and determined young woman and finally to a radiant queen.
Radiant Darkness was a quick read. I have always loved mythology and truly enjoyed this version of the story. It was engaging from the beginning. Although I felt that it took Persephone a little too long to catch on to both her husband and her mother’s desire for more power, the story is still entertaining. Persephone’s chafing at the beginning under her mother’s over-protectiveness will be something that teens ready to experience their own independence will easily empathize with.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Cautions for sensitive readers: Persephone is married to Hades, but nothing that happens in the bedroom is shown—everything regarding sex happens off screen. There is no language and no violence.
July 5, 2016
4 Stars:
I am such a sucker for mythology, and the so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to review this novel with my reading group. Having already known the story of Persephone I was intrigued to see the twists Emily Whitman would add to the tale. In Radiant Darkness Whitman contradicts the myth of Persephone by allowing her to choose of her own free will her fate with Hades.
We only think you know true story. Poor, sweet and innocent Persephone snatched away from her beloved mother Demeter, by Hades. Forcibly raped and imprisoned in the Underworld as his queen. Demeter; grief stricken wreaks havoc on the earth until Persephone is allowed to come back for a few months out of every year. Could that be right?
What if that was not what happened? What if Persephone met and fell in love with Hades? What if she left of her own free will? How would the story go then? Emily Whitman answers these with a twist that makes one look at Hades in a new light.
Excerpt:
“PERSEPHONE. Daughter of DEMETER, the harvest goddess. Kidnapped and forced to—” Wrong! In every book of myths, the same; in every book, wrong! Oh, I know it all got complicated because of the choices I made. I’m not trying to pretend I’m blameless. Still, after thousands of years, I wish people knew what really happened when I walked in my mother’s flowering vale and the black horses landed, crushing flowers and filling the air with heady perfume. Just once I’d like to set the record straight.” Whitman, Emily. Radiant Darkness (Kindle Locations 96-100). HarperCollins.
I expected more from the story of Persephone. If you are a fan of Greek mythology like I, then you should give this book a read. However, rated grades 9 and up; you have to be willing to overlook the poor childish writing.
Among some of my favorites. Outstanding literary work. The characters are well developed, interesting. The liked characters are likable and the hated are unlikable. The writing is captivating enough to keep you interested until the end and leave you wanting more. It has a fairly original or uniquely well-developed plot. The pretense and romance was well balanced and done with properly distributed amounts of hints, behaviors and chemistry. Not so much predictable if at all. Overall, loved it, I recommend reading!!
I am such a sucker for mythology, and the so I couldn't pass up the opportunity to review this novel with my reading group. Having already known the story of Persephone I was intrigued to see the twists Emily Whitman would add to the tale. In Radiant Darkness Whitman contradicts the myth of Persephone by allowing her to choose of her own free will her fate with Hades.
We only think you know true story. Poor, sweet and innocent Persephone snatched away from her beloved mother Demeter, by Hades. Forcibly raped and imprisoned in the Underworld as his queen. Demeter; grief stricken wreaks havoc on the earth until Persephone is allowed to come back for a few months out of every year. Could that be right?
What if that was not what happened? What if Persephone met and fell in love with Hades? What if she left of her own free will? How would the story go then? Emily Whitman answers these with a twist that makes one look at Hades in a new light.
Excerpt:
“PERSEPHONE. Daughter of DEMETER, the harvest goddess. Kidnapped and forced to—” Wrong! In every book of myths, the same; in every book, wrong! Oh, I know it all got complicated because of the choices I made. I’m not trying to pretend I’m blameless. Still, after thousands of years, I wish people knew what really happened when I walked in my mother’s flowering vale and the black horses landed, crushing flowers and filling the air with heady perfume. Just once I’d like to set the record straight.” Whitman, Emily. Radiant Darkness (Kindle Locations 96-100). HarperCollins.
I expected more from the story of Persephone. If you are a fan of Greek mythology like I, then you should give this book a read. However, rated grades 9 and up; you have to be willing to overlook the poor childish writing.
Among some of my favorites. Outstanding literary work. The characters are well developed, interesting. The liked characters are likable and the hated are unlikable. The writing is captivating enough to keep you interested until the end and leave you wanting more. It has a fairly original or uniquely well-developed plot. The pretense and romance was well balanced and done with properly distributed amounts of hints, behaviors and chemistry. Not so much predictable if at all. Overall, loved it, I recommend reading!!
January 13, 2021
There was a period of time, where the YA publishing industry released mythological retellings left, right and centre. This is one such book that I wanted to cross off the list. Hades and Persephone? YES PLEASE!!!
On the plus side...this was short. Unfortunately, it also happened to be utter drivel. You win some and you lose some when you try to make headway on your backlist, and I'm sorry to say that this is a loss. Persephone was insufferable and Hades was foolish. I'd pass on this instalovey nonsense. There are much better ones out there.
On the plus side...this was short. Unfortunately, it also happened to be utter drivel. You win some and you lose some when you try to make headway on your backlist, and I'm sorry to say that this is a loss. Persephone was insufferable and Hades was foolish. I'd pass on this instalovey nonsense. There are much better ones out there.
July 13, 2009
I really liked this book. I’ve always loved Greek mythology and didn’t realize when I picked this up that it was a retelling of the story of Persephone. I just thought the cover looked good and checked it out. All the old myths claim that Persephone was kidnapped by Hades, God of the Underworld. This story is told in the voice of Persephone and how she fell in love with Hades and willingly chose to become his queen. I thought it was very well written, and still had the same feel as the old stories. The relationship between Persephone and Demeter (her mother) was one that a lot of girls could probably relate to. Demeter wanted to keep Persephone sheltered and safe. Persephone saw this as a prison and didn’t realize how much Demeter actually cared for her. I like the growth that Persephone goes through and I enjoyed hearing the story from her point of view. I also liked how Hades was portrayed in the book. He is power-hungry but you could tell that he was really in love with Persephone and saw the great potential that she had. Overall, a very fun read. If you like Green mythology than you will like this book. I hope Emily Whitman writes more books, especially ones based on Greek lore.
May 4, 2012
There are many ways to mess up a totally fine Greek Myth, like, I don't know, making Hades a virgin? Fortunately, this book did not suffer from that atrocity. This sad novel, however, suffered from a yawn-inducing syndrome I like to call brought-nothing-new-or-special-to-the-table-story.
Let me make it clear though, I did NOT hate this book. I just didn't like it.
But if you want me to be a straightforward brute, this is how I will describe this book:
It's an UNIMAGINATIVE and BORING STORYTELLING with a WHINY HEROINE.
And SINCE, I am trying to be nice (really, I am - haha, yeah right) I won't say that about it. It's a tough job, you know. But some sorry soul gotta do it.
In this retelling, Persephone claimed that the "The Rape of Persephone" story was wrong on so many levels. So naturally, I was inclined to form high expectations from Persephone. I thought that she would be this badass MC that kicks butts. I thought that this would be a cool underworld adventure story. I thought that I would immensely enjoy this book.
Well, I thought wrong.
The book started with Persephone whining how her mother treats her like a baby. She whined that she doesn't get out of the vale. She whined that she can't do adult things. And in between those whining sessions, she weaves.
Okaayyy...
When Hades appeared, she temporarily stopped whining and started obsessing about romance. And then BAM! They fell in love.
Another okaayyy...
So we all know that Hades took Persephone to the underworld without Demeter's permission, right? Apparently, what we DIDN'T know is that Hades likes to ride horses all day. When he isn't CONTROLLING Persephone, he gallops away with a steed.
Err... how interesting. How two-dimensional. How.... LAME.
Persephone is the tamest, most domestic and clueless goddess I have ever read. It would be an overstatement if I say that NOTHING happened in this book. But that's what I thought while reading it. She weaved, kept a garden and took royalty lessons. I don't know about you, but I think that gods and goddesses taking royalty lessons Princess' Diaries style is laughable. Umm... they're GODS and GODDESSES? They don't need those useless shit?
But who am I to whine, right? I'm just a reader.
Okay, so as I've mentioned earlier, NOTHING happened in this book. Well, something did happen back on Earth. When Persephone learned about the drought, you would think she would put two and two together. Hello? Earth to Persephone! Your mother is the goddess of harvest, why do you think this is happening? Most of the time, her naivety is bordering on stupidity it's not even funny.
And finally, the writing. Yes, I want to talk about the juvenile writing. I am not a fan of child-like writing style so I didn't like this book. I'm sorry, but I was led to believe that the author is a big fan of Disney movies and happy endings. The writing wasn't horrible but there were no consistencies. Reading this book is like riding an unmoving roller coaster. I wished I could say that this book wasn't for me, but I am a sucker for mythology, so that's not even the case.
Let me make it clear though, I did NOT hate this book. I just didn't like it.
But if you want me to be a straightforward brute, this is how I will describe this book:
It's an UNIMAGINATIVE and BORING STORYTELLING with a WHINY HEROINE.
And SINCE, I am trying to be nice (really, I am - haha, yeah right) I won't say that about it. It's a tough job, you know. But some sorry soul gotta do it.
In this retelling, Persephone claimed that the "The Rape of Persephone" story was wrong on so many levels. So naturally, I was inclined to form high expectations from Persephone. I thought that she would be this badass MC that kicks butts. I thought that this would be a cool underworld adventure story. I thought that I would immensely enjoy this book.
Well, I thought wrong.
The book started with Persephone whining how her mother treats her like a baby. She whined that she doesn't get out of the vale. She whined that she can't do adult things. And in between those whining sessions, she weaves.
Okaayyy...
When Hades appeared, she temporarily stopped whining and started obsessing about romance. And then BAM! They fell in love.
Another okaayyy...
So we all know that Hades took Persephone to the underworld without Demeter's permission, right? Apparently, what we DIDN'T know is that Hades likes to ride horses all day. When he isn't CONTROLLING Persephone, he gallops away with a steed.
Err... how interesting. How two-dimensional. How.... LAME.
Persephone is the tamest, most domestic and clueless goddess I have ever read. It would be an overstatement if I say that NOTHING happened in this book. But that's what I thought while reading it. She weaved, kept a garden and took royalty lessons. I don't know about you, but I think that gods and goddesses taking royalty lessons Princess' Diaries style is laughable. Umm... they're GODS and GODDESSES? They don't need those useless shit?
But who am I to whine, right? I'm just a reader.
Okay, so as I've mentioned earlier, NOTHING happened in this book. Well, something did happen back on Earth. When Persephone learned about the drought, you would think she would put two and two together. Hello? Earth to Persephone! Your mother is the goddess of harvest, why do you think this is happening? Most of the time, her naivety is bordering on stupidity it's not even funny.
And finally, the writing. Yes, I want to talk about the juvenile writing. I am not a fan of child-like writing style so I didn't like this book. I'm sorry, but I was led to believe that the author is a big fan of Disney movies and happy endings. The writing wasn't horrible but there were no consistencies. Reading this book is like riding an unmoving roller coaster. I wished I could say that this book wasn't for me, but I am a sucker for mythology, so that's not even the case.
July 23, 2009
Persephone is the only daughter to the harvest goddess, Demeter. In texts and legends, she was kidnapped and forced against her will to marry the underworld god, Hades.
But that is not right! She wasn't forced into doing anything at all!
So why don't you lend an ear and let Persephone tells you what really happened?
Living in the beautiful and tranquil vale her whole life, Persephone has never seen what it is like outside the garden gates. Her mother has spoken ill of men and keeps them out from entering their realm; therefore, Persephone has never seen a real live male before. She is fed up of being secluded from the rest of the world and as much as she begs, she is not allowed to go down to Earth. It is such a bore to be an immortal without any freedom.
One innocent day when her mother is away, Persephone catches an alluring scent that she does not recognize. Following it, it leads her to a man who has strong winged horses. The first time she sees him, she runs away in fear. How can there be a man in her mother's sanctuary? No male is allowed there! But her curiosity brings her back the next day. She sees him again. And it will not be her last.
Although I'm sure many will not agree that Radiant Darkness should be a 5/5 novel, I simply adore it too much. There is something so elegant and soft about this one, which I can't help but love.
I was so sure that Persephone was going to narrate in a refined and proper voice, using fancy big words. To my surprise, she spoke like a regular teenager, pissed off that she could not do anything because she was "too young". Demeter kept telling her how the world below was dark and cruel and she should not be exposed to it. I can totally sympathize and relate to Persephone because my parents are like that, too. It makes one want to rebel. And that, Persephone did when she fell in love with Hades.
I was most disappointed with Hades's and Persephone's relationship. They met and after a couple of times together, BAM!, they are like in love. I wished they went through some sort of hardship before they actually developed feelings for each other. But I could understand why Persephone was attracted to him in the beginning; he was the first person from the opposite sex she ever laid her eyes on. Plus, he was a very nice guy, completely different from legends.
One thing that had been bothering me though was Hades's "supposed appearance in age". He was described to have a beard, making me think that he was a much older man but without wrinkles (cause he was a god and all). The fact that I saw Persephone more as a teen in my mind, the picture of her and Hades together did not really work out. But somehow, Whitman made it work. And there were both immortal so I was sure either of them would age soon.
Despite my complaints, I still think Radiant Darkness is a fantastic debut by Emily Whitman. It is about a young goddess who chooses her own pathway, not letting anyone decide her fate. It is one of the rare books out there that has quite some flaws but still has that great power to make you love it. Therefore, I don't have a lot to gloat about for this one except that it is definitely a 5/5 in my eyes. Romantics will definitely like this one! (And don't you just adore the cover?)
But that is not right! She wasn't forced into doing anything at all!
So why don't you lend an ear and let Persephone tells you what really happened?
Living in the beautiful and tranquil vale her whole life, Persephone has never seen what it is like outside the garden gates. Her mother has spoken ill of men and keeps them out from entering their realm; therefore, Persephone has never seen a real live male before. She is fed up of being secluded from the rest of the world and as much as she begs, she is not allowed to go down to Earth. It is such a bore to be an immortal without any freedom.
One innocent day when her mother is away, Persephone catches an alluring scent that she does not recognize. Following it, it leads her to a man who has strong winged horses. The first time she sees him, she runs away in fear. How can there be a man in her mother's sanctuary? No male is allowed there! But her curiosity brings her back the next day. She sees him again. And it will not be her last.
Although I'm sure many will not agree that Radiant Darkness should be a 5/5 novel, I simply adore it too much. There is something so elegant and soft about this one, which I can't help but love.
I was so sure that Persephone was going to narrate in a refined and proper voice, using fancy big words. To my surprise, she spoke like a regular teenager, pissed off that she could not do anything because she was "too young". Demeter kept telling her how the world below was dark and cruel and she should not be exposed to it. I can totally sympathize and relate to Persephone because my parents are like that, too. It makes one want to rebel. And that, Persephone did when she fell in love with Hades.
I was most disappointed with Hades's and Persephone's relationship. They met and after a couple of times together, BAM!, they are like in love. I wished they went through some sort of hardship before they actually developed feelings for each other. But I could understand why Persephone was attracted to him in the beginning; he was the first person from the opposite sex she ever laid her eyes on. Plus, he was a very nice guy, completely different from legends.
One thing that had been bothering me though was Hades's "supposed appearance in age". He was described to have a beard, making me think that he was a much older man but without wrinkles (cause he was a god and all). The fact that I saw Persephone more as a teen in my mind, the picture of her and Hades together did not really work out. But somehow, Whitman made it work. And there were both immortal so I was sure either of them would age soon.
Despite my complaints, I still think Radiant Darkness is a fantastic debut by Emily Whitman. It is about a young goddess who chooses her own pathway, not letting anyone decide her fate. It is one of the rare books out there that has quite some flaws but still has that great power to make you love it. Therefore, I don't have a lot to gloat about for this one except that it is definitely a 5/5 in my eyes. Romantics will definitely like this one! (And don't you just adore the cover?)
November 25, 2010
First of all, do NOT read the summary of the book. You know that page where the copyright info is and who published the book and what genre the book is in? Yeah, don’t read the summary part because it will tell you the story in one sentence. I was maybe forty pages into the book when I read the summary, and I thought, “Really? Do you have to tell me the story in one sentence?” I pretty much read the story knowing what would happen in the end, but I enjoyed reading it anyway. I love Greek mythology! Ever since I read Percy Jackson and the Olympians, reading different versions of Greek myths was something I loved to read. Emily Whitman’s version of Persephone’s story is less violent, and I think I like her version better than the original! Seeing what choices Persephone would make without her mother was really interesting to read. If you like Greek myths, quick reads, and happy endings, then Radiant Darkness is recommended for you!
http://teenagereader.com/radiant-dark...
http://teenagereader.com/radiant-dark...
May 18, 2009
Out of all the stories of Persephone and out of all the different versions, Radiant Darkness is definitely the best.
What I loved about Radiant Darkness was the uniqueness of the plot. Though Emily had obviously used the original Greek myth as a reference, the story she had to say was completely different.
I loved how Persephone was a more daring character and how she had the guts to go with the one she loved. Unlike the original where Persephone was taken against her will by Hades and dragged down into the depths of hell, Radiant Darkness provided a new and fresh look and gives us the story of how Persephone made her own choice and went willingly to Hades. I loved how the young goddess teenager seemed just like a regular teen – well, except for her godly powers of course. She had to face the same problems that most teens face today: an overbearing mother, a feeling of loneliness, and the feeling of a need for an adventure.
Hades, Persephone’s lordly lover, is someone I definitely have mixed feelings about. In the beginning, I really liked him because he seemed like the typical mysterious, dark, brooding, hot guy. He seemed really nice. However, when he managed to crown Persephone as his queen, I started to dislike him. Why? First, he didn’t tell Persephone what was happening on Earth and left her guessing. Second, he didn’t tell her what her mother was doing to everyone so she was completely clueless. Third, he was just being a total jerk. However, despite his jerk-ness, there were times when I knew that he really loved Persephone so it basically cancelled out all his negatives.
The writing was also pretty amazing. It definitely captured my attention and held it until the end of the book. I really didn’t want the book to finish because I wanted to know what happened to Persephone and Hades so hopefully there’s a sequel coming out. :)
What I loved about Radiant Darkness was the uniqueness of the plot. Though Emily had obviously used the original Greek myth as a reference, the story she had to say was completely different.
I loved how Persephone was a more daring character and how she had the guts to go with the one she loved. Unlike the original where Persephone was taken against her will by Hades and dragged down into the depths of hell, Radiant Darkness provided a new and fresh look and gives us the story of how Persephone made her own choice and went willingly to Hades. I loved how the young goddess teenager seemed just like a regular teen – well, except for her godly powers of course. She had to face the same problems that most teens face today: an overbearing mother, a feeling of loneliness, and the feeling of a need for an adventure.
Hades, Persephone’s lordly lover, is someone I definitely have mixed feelings about. In the beginning, I really liked him because he seemed like the typical mysterious, dark, brooding, hot guy. He seemed really nice. However, when he managed to crown Persephone as his queen, I started to dislike him. Why? First, he didn’t tell Persephone what was happening on Earth and left her guessing. Second, he didn’t tell her what her mother was doing to everyone so she was completely clueless. Third, he was just being a total jerk. However, despite his jerk-ness, there were times when I knew that he really loved Persephone so it basically cancelled out all his negatives.
The writing was also pretty amazing. It definitely captured my attention and held it until the end of the book. I really didn’t want the book to finish because I wanted to know what happened to Persephone and Hades so hopefully there’s a sequel coming out. :)
June 30, 2022
This is a Hades Persephone retelling with a twist--that the real story is that rather than be abducted and raped, Persephone willingly came to the Underworld because she loved Hades. However, it would have seemed that Demeter's efforts of destroying the land out of grief were all for naught since Persephone was safe and sound the whole time, so they didn't correct the blind bard who sang the story of Persephone's abduction and rape.
I've had this book on my TBR since I was 16!!! Thank god I finally got to it. From my experience, I've tended to not like the books as much I shelved when I was younger when I got to them now. Now no more books from 2017 remain on my TBR, which is good.
I liked the few times Hades made an appearance in the book, but there wasn't so much romance between them. (I'm not sure if this was marketed as a romance tbh.) I felt like Persephone spent more time with Melita, a shade (one of the dead people in the Underworld) than Hades. The name of Melita's daughter, Phil0mena, sounded familiar to me.
Demeter was the overprotective mom who doesn't want to admit to herself that her daughter isn't a baby anymore. What no one talks about in the Persephone Hades story is that Hades is her uncle LOL. Her father (and uncle) is Zeus, but it wasn't mentioned here.
I thought the author's writing style was unique. The book is split into 3 parts, and rather than chapter numbers, there are creative titles that match the short chapter. This book was a fast read too. I started it late last night when I should have been sleeping, and I finished it two-three hours after waking up.
I've had this book on my TBR since I was 16!!! Thank god I finally got to it. From my experience, I've tended to not like the books as much I shelved when I was younger when I got to them now. Now no more books from 2017 remain on my TBR, which is good.
I liked the few times Hades made an appearance in the book, but there wasn't so much romance between them. (I'm not sure if this was marketed as a romance tbh.) I felt like Persephone spent more time with Melita, a shade (one of the dead people in the Underworld) than Hades. The name of Melita's daughter, Phil0mena, sounded familiar to me.
Demeter was the overprotective mom who doesn't want to admit to herself that her daughter isn't a baby anymore. What no one talks about in the Persephone Hades story is that Hades is her uncle LOL. Her father (and uncle) is Zeus, but it wasn't mentioned here.
I thought the author's writing style was unique. The book is split into 3 parts, and rather than chapter numbers, there are creative titles that match the short chapter. This book was a fast read too. I started it late last night when I should have been sleeping, and I finished it two-three hours after waking up.
March 19, 2009
Teenage goddess Persephone lives in the loveliest vale created especially for her by her mother, Demeter, to protect her from the influences of men. But Persephone is not happy in her own little heaven. Demeter is belittling and babying, never allowing Persephone to attend any functions of mortal worship, always buying her toys that Persephone had loved as a child but now find childish.
One day, a dark and alluring stranger appears in the vale with his chariot. Persephone is imperceptibly drawn to this stranger, and even when he turns out to be Hades, powerful and feared king of the Underworld, she barely hesitates at his offer to be queen by his side for eternity. In Hades’ Underworld Persephone assumes her queenly duties but also finds delight in her garden and observing the mortals. Her husband is not perfect, but she is happy.
But all is not right in the world. Demeter, grief-stricken and determined to get her daughter back in her “safety,” ravages the world until Persephone cannot deny the fact that her mother is destroying the earth to get her back. Persephone must make a choice: will she remain in the Underworld where she is successful and happy, or will she right the wrongs that her leaving has created by returning to her mother?
RADIANT DARKNESS is like a lot of Greek myths and fairy tales: fascinating although perhaps not brilliantly written. (Who said the Grimm brothers were actually skilled with words, not just ideas?) The world where Persephone and her fellow gods, goddesses, and shades reside is alluring and inviting: descriptions of lush valley life and the hustle and bustle of a busy Underworld will make you, like me, long for somewhere on earth that’s just as beautiful.
Persephone is a surprisingly versatile character, really just a teenage girl who’s trying to gain independence from her overbearing mother. Her conflict with Demeter, one that comes naturally with the territory of adolescence, is something we can all relate to.
However, I found RADIANT DARKNESS lacking in almost everything else. Besides for Persephone, none of the other characters—who were all fascinating characters that I would have loved to know more about—were solidly defined for me. Hades’ and Persephone’s relationship developed swiftly and excitingly, and then fell flat on its face once, you know, they were actually married. And you wonder why people always say it’s all downhill from the wedding. No excitement. No change.
It’s not a particularly brilliant written story—will probably appeal more to middle school mythology fans—but RADIANT DARKNESS still has its charm and its strength in its protagonist.
One day, a dark and alluring stranger appears in the vale with his chariot. Persephone is imperceptibly drawn to this stranger, and even when he turns out to be Hades, powerful and feared king of the Underworld, she barely hesitates at his offer to be queen by his side for eternity. In Hades’ Underworld Persephone assumes her queenly duties but also finds delight in her garden and observing the mortals. Her husband is not perfect, but she is happy.
But all is not right in the world. Demeter, grief-stricken and determined to get her daughter back in her “safety,” ravages the world until Persephone cannot deny the fact that her mother is destroying the earth to get her back. Persephone must make a choice: will she remain in the Underworld where she is successful and happy, or will she right the wrongs that her leaving has created by returning to her mother?
RADIANT DARKNESS is like a lot of Greek myths and fairy tales: fascinating although perhaps not brilliantly written. (Who said the Grimm brothers were actually skilled with words, not just ideas?) The world where Persephone and her fellow gods, goddesses, and shades reside is alluring and inviting: descriptions of lush valley life and the hustle and bustle of a busy Underworld will make you, like me, long for somewhere on earth that’s just as beautiful.
Persephone is a surprisingly versatile character, really just a teenage girl who’s trying to gain independence from her overbearing mother. Her conflict with Demeter, one that comes naturally with the territory of adolescence, is something we can all relate to.
However, I found RADIANT DARKNESS lacking in almost everything else. Besides for Persephone, none of the other characters—who were all fascinating characters that I would have loved to know more about—were solidly defined for me. Hades’ and Persephone’s relationship developed swiftly and excitingly, and then fell flat on its face once, you know, they were actually married. And you wonder why people always say it’s all downhill from the wedding. No excitement. No change.
It’s not a particularly brilliant written story—will probably appeal more to middle school mythology fans—but RADIANT DARKNESS still has its charm and its strength in its protagonist.
May 18, 2012
When Hades fell in love with Persephone, in order to get around her mother Demeter who would oppose the match, he kidnapped her and took her to the Underworld. There, he tricked her into eating the seeds of a pomegranate, forcing her to remain with him. In Demeter's despair and anger, the earth was barren and thousands died. So, as a compromise, it was decided that Persephone would spend half of the year in the Underworld with her husband and half of the year on earth with her mother. The latter half, when Demeter was happy, became the spring and summer, and those months when Persephone was no longer by her side became winter and fall. Or so the myth goes. But what if Persephone wasn't kidnapped but actually chose to become the Queen of the Underworld?
At the beginning of the book, Persephone lives in the world her mother created for Persephone's protection. And despite being at the age when mortal girls are sacrificing their toys to enter adulthood, Demeter won't allow her to do so, forcing her to remain in that state between adulthood and childhood. A world where no men are allowed--and in such a place, how will Persephone ever fall in love? Until the day a mysterious stranger appears in the field. Though she doesn't know his name, she sneaks every day to meet him, hoping all the time that her mother won't find out. And when she discovers his identity and he asks her to come with him, she immediately says yes.
The Persephone-Hades myth is my all time favorite, so of course I had to read this book. I really love the idea of Persephone not being kidnapped but actually choosing to join Hades.
At the beginning of the book, Persephone lives in the world her mother created for Persephone's protection. And despite being at the age when mortal girls are sacrificing their toys to enter adulthood, Demeter won't allow her to do so, forcing her to remain in that state between adulthood and childhood. A world where no men are allowed--and in such a place, how will Persephone ever fall in love? Until the day a mysterious stranger appears in the field. Though she doesn't know his name, she sneaks every day to meet him, hoping all the time that her mother won't find out. And when she discovers his identity and he asks her to come with him, she immediately says yes.
The Persephone-Hades myth is my all time favorite, so of course I had to read this book. I really love the idea of Persephone not being kidnapped but actually choosing to join Hades.
August 6, 2012
Short Review: I picked up this book at 11pm for light night reading. At 4am I was done.
Long Review:
I read this right on the heels of Abandoned by Meg Cabot and God bless my aunt for buying it for me. If Abandoned is rotted meat, this is like a sweet, sweet Shirley Temple drink.
It's hard to review a good book because you don't want to reveal anything, but let others read it for themselves knowing nothing going in, like you. So what can I say?
This book is the myth of Persephone and Hades. The real one: Greek gods and all. Somehow Emily Whitman managed make Hades and Persephone cute. Halfway through this I clutched the book to my chest and fell back on my bed with a goofy grin on my face because the chemistry between these two were just so adorable.
And, joyous day! When they eventually argue, it feels like two people arguing, not just characters. The relationships in this novel just seems so tangible, like you are living with them, feeling exactly what they feel.
And that's why this novel is so good, from the moment you pick up the book, to the moment when you sadly close it, if feels like coming home: cozy and familiar. Whitman dose what takes many author's whole books to do; she makes the reader feel comfortable and familiar in the world that she builds.
Go buy it now!
Long Review:
I read this right on the heels of Abandoned by Meg Cabot and God bless my aunt for buying it for me. If Abandoned is rotted meat, this is like a sweet, sweet Shirley Temple drink.
It's hard to review a good book because you don't want to reveal anything, but let others read it for themselves knowing nothing going in, like you. So what can I say?
This book is the myth of Persephone and Hades. The real one: Greek gods and all. Somehow Emily Whitman managed make Hades and Persephone cute. Halfway through this I clutched the book to my chest and fell back on my bed with a goofy grin on my face because the chemistry between these two were just so adorable.
And, joyous day! When they eventually argue, it feels like two people arguing, not just characters. The relationships in this novel just seems so tangible, like you are living with them, feeling exactly what they feel.
And that's why this novel is so good, from the moment you pick up the book, to the moment when you sadly close it, if feels like coming home: cozy and familiar. Whitman dose what takes many author's whole books to do; she makes the reader feel comfortable and familiar in the world that she builds.
Go buy it now!
July 31, 2015
Persephone feels trapped in her mother's vale. Demeter, her mother and goddess, never wants her child to grow up and therefore only treats her like a child who does not know the ways of the world. And it is true, Persephone doesn't know much of the world, but it is because Demeter doesn't allow her to. Persephone finds her way out of this vicious cycle when Hades happens upon her vale and they fall in love. In this twist on the classic myth, Persephone finds love, and is given the chance to find herself.
I am a lover of all books that take old classic stories and turn them into something new. That goes for myths and fairy tales alike. This story was a great read and I truly liked Emily Whitman's writing style. Our heroine goes through changes and it is easy to see that she is not the same woman she was in the beginning of the book. Hades is also depicted as a good man, immortal who may be hungry for power, but truly loves her as well.
This is the second story I have read that has to do with this myth and it is spectacular. If you liked this you would also enjoy Goddess of Spring.
I am a lover of all books that take old classic stories and turn them into something new. That goes for myths and fairy tales alike. This story was a great read and I truly liked Emily Whitman's writing style. Our heroine goes through changes and it is easy to see that she is not the same woman she was in the beginning of the book. Hades is also depicted as a good man, immortal who may be hungry for power, but truly loves her as well.
This is the second story I have read that has to do with this myth and it is spectacular. If you liked this you would also enjoy Goddess of Spring.
August 25, 2009
There are about three reasons why I like Greek mythology a million times more than Roman. 1) The Greeks came first and the Romans stole their gods and gave them different names. 2) They have the coolest names like Zeus, Artemis (goddess of the hunt), and Aphrodite. And 3) Disney's Hercules kicks butt.
Which leads me into Radiant Darkness. It's the story of Persephone, daughter of Demeter (who was the goddess of harvest in case you didn't know). Persephone was "kidnapped" by Hades, god of the underworld, and forced to live with him.
I really liked the spin Whitman put on the story. Mythology says she was stolen away against her will, but Whitman makes it Persephone's choice. I can't fault Persephone for it and I don't want to. If I had to live in her conditions, I would sure be gone too.
It also gives us a different side of Hades. Since he does rule the underworld and the dead, he's always made to be evil. Through Persephone we see that that's not necessarily true. Where there's life, there must be death (except for the gods). He's just part of the cycle.
If you like your Greek mythology, I recommend this highly.
Which leads me into Radiant Darkness. It's the story of Persephone, daughter of Demeter (who was the goddess of harvest in case you didn't know). Persephone was "kidnapped" by Hades, god of the underworld, and forced to live with him.
I really liked the spin Whitman put on the story. Mythology says she was stolen away against her will, but Whitman makes it Persephone's choice. I can't fault Persephone for it and I don't want to. If I had to live in her conditions, I would sure be gone too.
It also gives us a different side of Hades. Since he does rule the underworld and the dead, he's always made to be evil. Through Persephone we see that that's not necessarily true. Where there's life, there must be death (except for the gods). He's just part of the cycle.
If you like your Greek mythology, I recommend this highly.
May 6, 2010
I fell completely in love with this novel. It captivated me within its first few pages and held me, spellbound, until the closing paragraph.
It was lovely to see how Whitman took the ancient myth of Persephone and Hades and turned it around to make it a story of love, strength, and independence. The author took the important details of the original story, such as the pomegranate seeds, and weaved them together beautifully to create a story that felt rich with history and legend.
I very much enjoyed the authors writing style, which often felt poetic. Descriptions were detailed and full of beautiful imagery. Whitmans words pulled me in, I wanted to turn my hands in the soil of the garden, and feel Hades' arms wrapped protectively around me.
All in all this was a wonderful debut novel, and I sincerely hope to read more from Emily Whitman in the future.
It was lovely to see how Whitman took the ancient myth of Persephone and Hades and turned it around to make it a story of love, strength, and independence. The author took the important details of the original story, such as the pomegranate seeds, and weaved them together beautifully to create a story that felt rich with history and legend.
I very much enjoyed the authors writing style, which often felt poetic. Descriptions were detailed and full of beautiful imagery. Whitmans words pulled me in, I wanted to turn my hands in the soil of the garden, and feel Hades' arms wrapped protectively around me.
All in all this was a wonderful debut novel, and I sincerely hope to read more from Emily Whitman in the future.
February 7, 2011
I love the way Persephone's Greek myth is seen in this book. Emily Whitman took the original myth and shaped it to be a new and interesting stories that the readers would adore. This book show exactly how one story can have more than one sides. If you know the Greek mythology then you know about Persephone being capture and taken to the underworld by Hades. During this time Demeter, Persephone's mother, went into a breakdown to find her daughter and forgot about the earth. Then when Demeter found out her daughter was in the underworld, she made sure that earth was in a chaos and that Zeus would make her daughter come back. The thing about this story is that it implies that Hades kiddnaped Persephone, but what if maybe Persephone wanted to go to the underworld after all? One of those sides is the truth but which one will it be?
December 6, 2015
It was a brilliant take on the Persephone and Hades myth! But then I love Persephone! It might have been nice to see more of Persephone's realationship with Hades but, then, you can't have everything. I liked the fact that Hermes was seen as a friend to both Hades and Persephone, instead of just the messenger her brings her back and forth every six months. Melita was a good, solid character. I also enjoyed the fact that Persephone visited her daughter at the end. I can practicly picture Persephone coming to visit the next spring1 Overall, I enjoyed it!
March 3, 2015
I really liked this book, but I don't like Persephone's attitude. She ignores all the problems she has caused by going with Hades and ruling the Underworld; her mother is drying out the earth, then flooding it. She is so oblivious, but I love how she finds loopholes to fix it. My favorite character is Hades; he worked so hard to convince her to stay with him. He did manipulate her for a while, though. I hated how Demeter, Persephone's mother, shelters her from everything, but everything ends up okay, with (mostly) everyone getting what they wanted.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2011
This book was fabulous! It was an interesting way to spice up an ancient tale. Who would have every expected that Persephone would leave Demeter on her own.
I found the title of the book to be fitting for the story. Persephone lives in both the upper and lower world - Radiant and Dark. She actually ends up with the best of both worlds.
Persephone becomes independent and strong. She makes her own decisions, but is able to stay close to her mother. I like that.
I found the title of the book to be fitting for the story. Persephone lives in both the upper and lower world - Radiant and Dark. She actually ends up with the best of both worlds.
Persephone becomes independent and strong. She makes her own decisions, but is able to stay close to her mother. I like that.
November 6, 2011
Great book! I recommend this to 8th-11th graders or people that just adore to read! It's a Hades and Persephone book (that alone is enough to make me give it AT LEAST a 3 star) You don't really see that much of Hades in the book but when ever he shows up you can't help but smile cause he's so good with Persephone :) It's a quick read like Emily Whitman's other book Wilddwing it took me less then a day finish.
October 15, 2011
I love Greek mythology but only if it is narrated well. And Radiant Darkness was one hell of a well narrated story. A perfect example that a story changes with perspective. Persephone is not a damsel in distress nor is Demeter an epitome of great mother and Hades is someone whom no one can hate in this book. It also shows some teenage issues which are common in our modern world too. I would recommend it to everyone who loves a good story.
March 14, 2013
Writing this brief review from memory since its been a while since I've read this. I thought it was a cute children's story about the relationship between Hades and Persephone. I didn't know anything from Greek mythology about Persephone's relationship with her mom but that was well done too. I liked the kinder side of Hades shown in this story. He seemed more lovable than his usual villainous depictions.
April 30, 2013
I loved this book, and the sweet refreshing twist on Persephone and Hades stories. I've read about what happened when she left him but none showed that she loved him. I didn't like the fact that she and Hades were not together a lot during her time in the Underworld but other than that it was great! I loved Hermes and Melita they, along with Persephone and Hades were my favorite characters! I would love to read more by her!
May 8, 2017
A YA version the story of Persephone. Fun to read, with some very chaste but steamy romance. Not super complex, but I think those younger readers that enjoyed Twilight would appreciate this. The moral though is, if you are going to run away with your secret boyfriend to the Underworld, leave mom a note.
December 7, 2009
An amazing new take on the ancient Greek myth of Demeter and Persephone. Anyone familiar with this myth knows that Hades fell in love with Persephone, but have you ever wondered, what if Persephone loved Hades back? The book also puts Demeter, all mighty goddess of grain, in a whole new light. I finished this book in a day and loved every minute of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2011
After I finished this book, I wanted to cry because I knew reading it again would never be a new experience. I wish I hadn't read it yet, just so I could read it again. I am definitely going to wait until I forget about the story so I can read it again and hopefully get a fraction of the first time experience this book gave me.
February 19, 2011
I enjoyed this book. I love how whitman puts her own twist on the story of Persephone and Hades. Its romantic in a Bella Edward kinda way. I was sad when the pages started getting less and less. I was really hoping this story would never come to an end. if you like daughters of moon and books like such. def pick this book up.
December 11, 2013
I love this book. It has always been my opinion that Hades just got a lot of bad rep because he's the god of the dead. In this book it shows that, while he's not perfect, he's really a good guy. And that he didn't kidnap Persephone, she went willingly. I love this book.
June 6, 2010
This is a myth retelling. The story was captivating and kept me reading until the book was finished. Many myths are short songs, this is an expansion of the myth with a twist. What if the song was wrong to make the people happy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 304 reviews