Radiant Darkness
by Emily Whitman

    RADIANT DARKNESS by Emily Whitman
    Category:  Fantasy
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  4/28/09
    Publisher:  HarperTeen
    Reviewed by:  Sarah Bean the Green Bean Teen Queen
    Rating:  4 Stars


    Have you heard the story of Persephone, daughter of the goddess Demeter?  She was kidnapped by Hades and
    forced to live in the underworld as his queen.  But that’s not the real story - and Persephone is going to set the
    record straight.

    Demeter is strict - so much so that she keeps Persephone sheltered in a vale.  Demeter doesn’t seem to notice that
    Persephone is not a little girl anymore. And she never allows any men to visit.  So when Hades finds his way into the
    vale, Persephone is intrigued.  

    The two begin secret meetings and soon a forbidden relationship forms.  When Hades asks Persephone to join him in
    the underworld, she can’t wait to escape.  Little does she know that her small decision will have a large effect on
    Earth.

    RADIANT DARKNESS is a fabulous retelling of the myth of Hades and Persephone.  The story has it all - a strict
    mom, a rebellious daughter, forbidden romance, sacrifice, and heartbreak!    

    Author Emily Whitman does a great job turning the familiar story on its head and adding new layers.  Her writing is
    full of vivid details and her descriptions of the underworld and the vale were pure magic.  Persephone is believable
    and readers will find her relatable, despite her mythical background. I loved that she starts as just a normal girl,
    who’s even a little klutzy!  Her transformation throughout is beautifully written, and I was cheering for Persephone
    along her journey.

    Readers are sure to be enchanted by this thrilling debut!