About the Book

Book: Radiant

Author: Ashley Bustamante

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release date: May 9, 2023

Secrets Come in Every Shade

After the introduction of Yellow magic in a society accustomed to only Red and Blue magic, the world inside the barrier has become more complicated than anyone imagined. Ava, Elm, and the former students of Prism navigate life in hiding. They face discord, secrets, betrayal, and danger that looms ever closer as the Benefactors narrow in on their hideaway.

Ava is determined to keep everyone protected, even at the cost of her own safety. She explores dangerous aspects of her new Mentalist abilities—against Elm’s dire warnings.

Tensions escalate when a new visitor arrives claiming to know a way out of the barrier. While this may be the only way to escape the Benefactors, what awaits them on the outside? Will they gain allies or make an entirely new set of enemies?

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Guest Review from Mindy

This was my introduction to Ashley Bustamante’s writing and I am hooked! Even without having read the first book in the series, I was able to jump right into Ava’s story. Her first person present tense voice is fresh, real, raw, and endearing. Though fraught with mishaps, misunderstandings, heartaches, and betrayals, Ava and her friends’ adventure is incredibly satisfying and purpose-filled. Just an FYI – it does end on a cliffhanger. I thought this series was a duology when I picked up the book, so I was a little surprised at the ending….but this means more of Ava and Elm and the mighty warriors seeking justice, peace, and freedom so I can’t complain!

I loved entering Magnus and its color-coded magical world filled with painful past and secrets. Ava was an exceptional heroine – vulnerable yet strong, tender and compassionate yet stubborn, solitary yet craving companionship. And Elm – he was the perfect combination of the alpha and beta hero with powerful, commanding, and brilliant presence but also humble, sweet, and generous. The secondary characters added depth and layer to the storyline and I can’t wait to see what comes next for this ragtag group of friends and comrades in arms.

Filled with wonder, adrenaline, intrigue, and suspense with a dash of romance thrown in, Radiant is a must-read for all YA fantasy fans. I received the book from the publisher via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Ashley Bustamante has created stories from the moment she could scribble and staple sheets of paper together. She simply cannot recall a time when writing was not a force in her life. When not running through lines of dialogue in her mind, she enjoys taking photographs and spending time with her husband, three children, and any furry, feathered, or scaly creature she can find.

More from Ashley

When I originally wrote Vivid, book one in The Color Theory series, I wasn’t sure if the story would continue. But it had to, didn’t it? Without spoiling anything, Vivid ends in a place where things are really just beginning, and that’s where Radiant takes the stage. What does coming together really look like? What does it take for a group of diverse people to unite? Radiant explores the strength that grows from working together and overcoming differences. It doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and our characters have a lot to learn. I hope you’ll enjoy Radiant!