Radiant: A Progression/Cultivation Epic

Kataklysm #3

by T.R. Magnus, Theophilus Monroe

There's more than one way to destroy a world. The gods detected a threat.

Batara Kala is preparing to launch another Kataklysm.

What is his plan?

Fire from the heavens? The spread of disease? A worldwide flood?

Blaike must find Ming Yue.

He hasn't seen her since they were both young Embers.

Did she advance to Luminary? Is she prepared to follow the path to Radiant?

Will two Radiants be enough to challenge Batara Kala?

None of that will matter if Blaike can't find her.

Even together, are two Radiants enough to defeat a god and save the world?


Radiant is the third book in Kataklysm, an action packed epic progression fantasy series. Fans of progression/cultivation epic fantasies, unique magic systems, and immersive epics like Will Wight's Cradle series or Brandon Sanderson's Stormlight Archive where the hero starts weak but gains power over time will also enjoy this expansive saga.

Genres: Fantasy

401 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2023

About the author

T.R. Magnus is the elven half-brother of the urban and paranormal fantasy author Theophilus Monroe. Unlike his brother, T.R. writes immersive epics and cultivation/progression fantasies. He enjoys creating expansive worlds, unique magical systems, and plots that favor the unfavored. T.R. goes by T.R. because Thranduil Ravavaris is hard to say.

T.R.’s favorite color is plaid. Ketchup is his favorite condiment. He enjoys polka music.

If you’d like to learn more about T.R. or his half-brother’s novels, visit TRMAGNUS.com. Sign up for his reader club and, once available, T.R. will also send you a free novel, “DARKWORLD,” an origin story for his forthcoming “Kataklysm” progression fantasy series.

Reviews

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, Radiant by T.R. Magnus? Absolute fire. Literal fire from the heavens might be coming, but it’s Blaike’s emotional arc and the looming second Kataklysm that had me burning through pages like my life depended on it.
By this point in the Kataklysm series, I am fully invested in Blaike and Ming Yue—like, ride-or-die emotionally attached. And Radiant does not give them a breather. Blaike’s quest to find Ming Yue after being separated for so long tugged at my heart. It’s not just about saving the world anymore—it’s about reconnecting with someone who gets you in a world that’s falling apart. And that feeling? That’s everything.
The progression system here keeps leveling up in ways that feel earned and natural, and seeing Blaike fight his way to becoming a Radiant—while still doubting if that’s enough—was both inspiring and anxiety-inducing in the best way. The stakes are unreal: Batara Kala isn’t just tossing lightning bolts for fun. He’s aiming for total annihilation, and the gods are scrambling. Which is wild considering they're supposed to be the ones with all the power.
And Ming Yue? Goddess bless her. Every time she’s on the page, she brings this intense mix of quiet strength and brewing storm. I was seriously cheering for their reunion—and let’s just say when they’re finally on the same battlefield again? Chills.
Magnus does what he always does: he delivers high-stakes epic fantasy without losing the heart. Radiant isn’t just about becoming more powerful—it’s about whether even that will ever be enough when you're going toe-to-toe with gods.
If you're reading this series (and you should be if you love stories like Cradle or Stormlight Archive), Radiant is the one that really kicks things into the next gear. Blaike and Ming Yue are stepping into the light—and I’m right there with them, ready for the fire.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tracy Smyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Our heroes have reached the level of Radiant and things are really heating up. Our band of heroes have saved their country from Dumadi (he who wanted to rule), and now they have to head off to find out how to defeat the ‘Dreadlord’ - next book can’t wait

[Shellie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Radiant, the third book in the Kataklysm series by T.R. Magnus, continues the thrilling progression/cultivation epic that has captivated readers. As the gods sense an imminent threat, Batara Kala, a formidable force, plans to unleash another catastrophic event known as the Kataklysm. The world hangs in the balance as the fate of humanity rests on the shoulders of Blaike and his search for Ming Yue.

Blaike, a young Ember, must find Ming Yue, his long-lost companion from their shared past. Blaike wonders if Ming Yue has advanced to become a Luminary and if she is ready to tread the path to becoming Radiant. With the daunting task of challenging a god like Batara Kala, Blaike knows that finding Ming Yue is crucial.

However, the fate of the world depends on their reunion and whether two Radiants will possess the power necessary to confront and defeat a god. Blaike's quest to find Ming Yue becomes a race against time as the world teeters on the edge of destruction.

Radiant is a thrilling addition to the Kataklysm series, offering action-packed scenes and an expansive epic fantasy world. Fans of progression/cultivation stories will be enthralled by the unique magic systems and the immersive nature of this saga. T.R. Magnus crafts a narrative that draws readers into a world where heroes start weak but gain power over time, reminiscent of acclaimed series like Will Wight's Cradle and Brandon Sanderson's Stormlight Archive.

With its engaging characters, high-stakes plot, and a richly built world, Radiant delivers a satisfying continuation to the Kataklysm series. Prepare to be swept away by the breathtaking battles, intricate magic systems, and the epic journey of Blaike and Ming Yue as they strive to save the world from imminent destruction.

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Radiant is the third book in the Kataklysm series by T.R. Magnus. Radiant starts off with a blast and never lets up from the first page to the last. The action or the fighting is what kept me hanging on and racing to the end. Not that I wanted it to end but I wanted to know more.

The moment I picked up Radiant I was pulled into its dark world and I felt as if I was a part of everything that was happening. I could see it all happening around me as I looked this way and that. The descriptions were so well written that it was so easy to see it all. The world-building is so awesome. I can just see everyone as they are fighting in their battles.

I fell in love with all the characters and I loved getting the story from more than one character's point of view. I like reading stories through more than one character's eyes as I feel as if I get more of the story that way.

The Gods are at it again raining down fire upon the land. Blaike and Ming Yue are working hard to find a way to stop the Gods from destroying their world. Ming Yue is trying to find a way to make her powers stronger so she doesn’t get so tired when she uses them so she can fight longer.

I really enjoy seeing the characters use their magic powers and fight with their swords. I would enjoy seeing the Kataklysm series made into a movie or TV show.

Can Blaike and Ming Yue find a way to save the world before it is too late? Are they strong enough to stop the Gods?

Find out by grabbing a copy of Radiant today!

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

The war is still ongoing with Batara Kala intent on unleashing yet another kataklysm on the Ashatarians, and with Dumadi as his faithful follower, our group of heroes have their work cut out for them. Blaike is trying to ascend to radiant now and was hoping that Yue, who he had parted ways with quite a while back, was doing so as well. Yue was trying to get allies for Cintanesia as Dumadi was still threatening a war and take over of these peace loving people. He wanted to harness their light orbs to bring back to Ashatar, as they were running out of sunstone. She traveled with Kirana whilst Blaike traveled with Farrel back to the city of Sudveil to take up his rightful crown and throne. He knew he would face trouble but was intent on serving his people, whilst protecting the people of Cintanesia as well as the Tensians. Blaike wanted peace but before the big battle and the defeat of Dumadi, this was not to be. It was to be the three of them, taking on the powers of the Gods they were serving, who were to face off with Dumadi. Yue gained the wings and flight of the dragon god, Blaike gained the shell armour of Bedang, the turtle god, whilst Aelfrid the Cintanerian, gained the claws of Barong and together they fought a massive battle against Dumadi and his God Batara Kala, the destroyer of worlds. I love this series, I love the characters' courage, perseverance and loyalty to stand with one another. I love that the Gods are looking to these humans to defeat the dreadlord who is persecuting them but hate that so many friends have been killed. No one wins in any war!

[Vannessa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this next book in this series - things are definitely speeding up as Blaike, Kirana and friends all need to move against Dumadi, now he has returned once again.

It's a strange world in which these fantasy characters live and there is constant strife and turmoil, but with the help of the Cintensians and their light orbs, things are definitely improving. Blaike, taking up the role as King of Ashathar with Kirana by his side, has some difficult decisions to make, but luckily for him he has some good allies and the gods on his side. But when he sets out on his path to ascended to the next level, becoming a Radiant, the vipers in the nest strike, trying to turn his city against him! It takes a lot of power, strength (both mental and physical) and a bit of guesswork to defeat his enemies once and for all, but there's dire consequences in doing so!

The main characters in this series are all very likeable and show great compassion and resilience for what must be done, however hard the challenges they face are. They clearly show that teamwork is the most important thing moving forward and this is how they can all achieve their goals! The world building is great as well and TR Magnus definitely pulls you in quickly with this series.

I can't wait to read what happens next after Batara Kala's failsafe kicked in!

I received an ARC copy of this book from the author, but this review is my own honest one!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happens now? Book 3 in the series and recommended to be read in order as each book piggybacks from the previous book. Although technically this would be book 4 as the prequel Darkworld: The Fall of Ashathar is the first. Each book clues the reader on Farrel, Blaike & Ming Yue all advance to Radiant “Other”. Aelfrid takes on Barong aspect and advances from Radiant to Lightweaver. Yue takes on Antaboga dragon aspect. Blaike the young King (who marries Radiant Kirana) takes on Bedawang tortoise aspect. His journey to a light age continues. Dumadi conquers rival Vandagoth and attacks the trio to kill Blaike whose death would trigger the second Kataklysm. The heroes prevail, many die, but they didn’t stop the second Kataklysm from happening. Loads of action and angst as the four (Blaike, Kirana, Aelfrid and Yue), endure yet another problem, the DreadLord is coming.

[Charles L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Radiant, Book 3, in the Kataklysm series hits a major turning point in the series where our main protagonist, Blaike and Ming Yue have evolved to the Radiant level where they forced to challenge antagonists who are thought to be gods- successfully. It’s a hard and tumultuous journey to that point and they do lose precious friends in the process and just when they though success was in their grasp, Batara Kala launches a failsafe that will not only destroy the planet but he revels its location to the dreaded Dreadlord, the arch nemesis of all the current local gods on the planet. The book ends on a high note and segways into a more exciting sequel. I encourage all readers to jump in and get caught up because this is a great book and you will all enjoy it.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Radiant: A Progression/Cultivation Epic (Kataklysm Book 3), my fifty-fourth read from author Theophilus Monroe and the fourth "co-written" with T.R. Magnus his "elven half-brother". Theophilus Monroe has become one of my favorite authors over the last year or so. Very different than his typical work and reminds me greatly in style of the White Dragon works of Paul Cude. I was given a Kindle copy of this book & am voluntarily reviewing it. Next on my TBR list, Dreadlord: A Progression/Cultivation Epic (Kataklysm Book 4). (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Lili · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautifully balanced, as many bad thing happen as good - heart wrenching and uplifting. The price paid for saving the world takes a heavy toll, and no victory seems to be final, there's always more evil to vanquish.

I wonder if this story of mythical beasts and legendary heroes forged by evolution to survive was not really somewhere in Earth's past... Can't wait to see what's next!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kris Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

(I received this copy for the ARC group, so I got to read it early. Eat your hearts out.)

Blaike, Kirana, Aelfrid, and Ming Yue continue their quest to defeat Dumadi and prevent a second Kataclysm while the first is ongoing. Their tests become more difficult as they continue to increase their powers; their enemies become more devious and powerful as well.

We are introduced to the "Dreadlord", the title character of the next book. Who or what said "Dreadlord is remains to be seen.

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Theophilus Monroe does it again in the Kataklysm series, it had what I enjoyed from the previous two books. The characters felt like they were suppose to and it worked overall with the world. I was hooked from the beginning and it didn't let go until the end. I enjoyed the way Theophilus Monroe writes and can't wait for more from the author.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blaike, Yue, Tinder, and Farrell are all on the path to Radiant, while Kirana is on the path to becoming a Lightweaver. The group faces many battles, fighting against giant adders and searching for a way to prevent Dumani from killing all of the living Lightweavers. This story has plenty of action and romance, ending with a cliffhanger. Very highly recommended.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another impressive book in this series. Wow, the story is absolutely amazing, continuing along beautifully after book 2. This series has really taken me for a ride and this book was no exception. If you've read the first two books, then you'll love where this one takes you. If you haven't read the first two, well then now is the time to start so that you can get to this one and enjoy the magic this book creates. Another winner!

[Barbara Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Allow two days for this tightly-crafted family-friendly paranormal supernatural eschatology set in Ashathar and the farlands across the ocean where the varied peoples work with the gods in the eternal battle of good against evil.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michael Schwartz · Rating 1 out of 5]

Interesting but badly badly written

Seriously for starters nobody spells cataclysm with k's "kataklysm" its too busy too much crap going on let alone the need to make the conversations absurd and senseless wordage. Add in the fact the names of the characters and other beings. The main character is soooo whiny, yeah I get it there is doubt and al but it gets old real fast.

[Stephen & · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Mangus has written a book that I have problem putting down. He brings more and more unexpected turns every time he releases a new book just when you think that you know where he's headed he throws a wrench in the works and keeps you on your toes.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jerri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome book. Loved the storyline and the characters. This book was a continuation of the series and didn't disappoint. The characters just continued to get better throughout the series and this book was great for them. The world building was excellent in this book and thoroughly enjoyable. I received this as an ARC and this is my honest opinion.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

foes and allies change, as do their skills and resources

it becomes once again a question of battlefields, resources and costs

some relatively positive developments might again have harsh negative consequences and pose unexpected threats

battles have not come to an end, but battlefields are shifting

new players, new rules, renewed dangers and benefits

ongoing realm changing conquest, challenges and changes

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Radiant (Kataklysm Book 3) by T.R. Magnus is as well written as the previous books in the series. Batara Kala is preparing to launch another Kataklysm. Blaike must find Ming Yue but he hasn't seen her since they were both young Embers. Did she advance in strength and if found will it be on time? Also if found will it be enough to save the world?

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yowza! What an intense series of events our hero’s go through in this book! Blaike and Yue ascend into Radiant but much more than all other Radiants. One other very special person joins them. Their fight for their world doesn’t end yet. They must keep going, fighting, and ascending. I couldn’t put this book down!

[Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another incredible entry in the Kataklysm series. This series just gets better with each release. Amazing characters and very suspenseful story. Leaves the reader on the edge waiting to see what happens next. Love this series and can't wait for book 4!

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three in the series and what a cracker it is. I started to read and was so engrossed I was reading long into the night only stopping for meals, which tells you how good it really is. I was fascinated by the story. What’s going to happen in the next one I wonder. Highly recommended.

[Robert Foland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Radiant is a magical adventure. T. R. Magnus has created an amazing world and populated it with a group of fascinating characters. Some good. Some evil. They battle for nothing less than the future of their world. Fantasy at its highest level!

[Elitta Ferguson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An epic continuation of the Kataklysm series. This book is full of action, suspense, and twists. Blaike has to go and find Ming Yue to join forces and battle Batara Kala. Will Blaike find Ming Yue? Will they be able to stop Batara Kala?

[Kristin Jensen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm enjoying immensely this world building and the fighting scene are well described. I don't doubt that this epic fantasy is going to leave us breathless, and I'm in for the ride!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thought this was a great story with familiar faces in it along with some new friends and enemies and is similar to the Thomas Covenant series of books by Stephen Donaldson.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Chasity Coquat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great characters! There is the perfect amount of suspense and twists to keep this book a wonderful read!

[Kennedy Hopkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the book I love the book love the storyline and characters thank you for writing it

[Brittany Britton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Radiant by T.R. Magnug is a great LitRPG Fantasy. The story is entertaining, interesting, exciting, and more.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.