Radiance is a fantasy romance about a couple who are brought together through a politically arranged marriage. Ildiko is human, a Gauri woman, and Brishen is a Kai man. The Kai are nocturnal, with black eyes (Ildiko references fireflies when describing them), grey skin and large mouths with pointed teeth. They find each other physically repellent but bond immediately through their personalities. One of the best parts of the book is their banter and teasing. They grow a strong and close friendship, being each other’s ally in very fraught situations.

I thought the world building was very good. The bad characters range from selfish and neglectful to unrepentantly evil. The characters who support the couple are well drawn and interesting. The love story is a slow burn with a good payoff. Danger lurks from more than one source, which lends a tense and mysterious air to the story. 

I really enjoyed reading Radiance. It is fun and touching and exciting. I plan to read the follow up very soon.