A huge thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for giving me the chance to read Her Radiant Curse by Elizabeth Lim in exchange for my honest review.

This was trully a beautiful book and as always Elizabeth Lim's writing takes the reader through a beautiful world of asian folklore and vivid colours to show us the story of Channi and her sister Vanna .
In a marvelous tale of love and sisterhood, Channi will face all types of adversities all for the sake of her sister. Through love and courage, she will fight against all evils , magic and not ,all for her sister's wellbeing, even if that means she will lose everything in the process ,including her own self.
Even though it is considered the prequel of her Six of cranes duology, it is also a standalone and even if you read it after her duology, the characters that make an appearance will be like a congratulatory easter-egg for any reader. In simpler words, it doesn't matter when you read it (prior of post to the duology) , it is simply so good it will only enhance your reading experience no matter when you read it because it simply that good !

Elizabeth Lim continuously outdoes herself with every one of the books that she writes. Gorgeously written, it's lyrical, imaginative, enchanting and just all round perfect.

I received a review copy of this book from Hodder & Stoughton vis NetGalley for which my thanks.

Set in a mythical far east, on the island of Sundau and its wider surrounds, Her Radiant Curse (2023) by Elizabeth Lim is a fantasy quest story which explores many themes from identity and family to burdens that people have to carry for no fault of their own (as also people not truly understanding those of others) but at its heart (despite some romance thread) is the deep bond between two sisters whom fate perhaps has made completely different from each other but who are each other’s strongest support.

Channari or Channi lives on the island of Sundau with her parents and as the story opens, a new family member, her baby sister Vanna is born—Vanna is a golden child, not only beautiful beyond compare but one who emanates a light that few are able to resist. Channi, the moon-faced older (though not much) sister through the actions of one person in particular ends up cursed by Angma, the demon witch, having to live with a serpent face and eyes, though Angma’s original target was Vanna, who she still means to claim when she turns seventeen. Channi’s curse makes her abhorrent to her father (and stepmother) and indeed the villagers so much so that she is kept confined to the house and must always wear a mask. Her only friend is Vanna who truly loves her and can see beyond her face into the real person that Channi is and the snakes of the island (among them her best friend Ukar) whose monarch sacrificed his life for Channi.

As the years pass and Vanna grows more and more beautiful, she becomes only a source of money for her father and stepmother being sent all forms of precious gifts by potential suitors. But their greed knows no end and they plan their ultimate bid, organising a selection ceremony for Vanna—only a cover for ‘selling’ her off to the highest bidder. In all this the threat of Angma has been all but forgotten and Channi alone prepares for the danger, even Vanna brushing it off. Channi is the only one who can protect her sister, both from Angma and equally cruel even if less dangerous possible suitors. With this begins a journey and adventure in which Channi must face many dangers and many foes but her biggest challenges don’t come from these alone for along the way difficult decisions must be made—ones which affect the only people she loves and values, and her relationship with them.

Although described in its blurb as a standalone (and it is in a sense one) Her Radiant Curse is more rightly a companion book, even a prequel to Lim’s previous duology, the Six Crimson Cranes books which I have read and reviewed earlier. While one can read it on its own or even before those books, I think reading those first made the experience more enriching.

I had had a mixed experience with the Six Crimson Cranes duology in that though I enjoyed it overall, I found the second book The Dragon’s Promise didn’t work as well as it was a little too ambitious in its scope, attempting to explore a few too many threads and ideas each of which would have made for an entire story in itself. Her Radiant Curse, however, doesn’t suffer this problem. It is nicely crafted with its central quest and storyline being in focus all through and the story tying in well with the story and characters of the Six Crimson Cranes books (you don’t necessarily need to know them to read the book but things make more sense if you do).

Channi is of course the character at the centre of this story and it is her backstory that we are fully learning here. A tragic figure, she must bear the burden of a curse that has been placed on her for no fault of her own and as a consequence face rejection and loathing from those whose love and approval she most seeks. She isn’t friendless though for Vanna despite her beauty and charm (and a little vanity too) can see Channi for who she truly is and wishes to never be parted from her, no matter what lands her life takes her too. Channi loves her as deeply and with her talents and curse will leave no stone unturned to protect her from danger. Channi also had other friends in Ukar the son of the snake king, and the dragon Hozkuh who bears a curse of his own. It is on them that she must rely as she is briefly separated from Vanna and must track her down facing enemies human and demon. In many ways she is the typical teen character, headstrong, impulsive but also one the reader can feel much sympathy for.

Vanna on the other hand may feel a lighter figure, enjoying the power of her beauty, revelling in her lovely clothes, aspiring to become a queen, but as the story progresses one finds she has much more depth to her than one sees. While Channi’s burdens are quite literally written on her face, Vanna has her own share to carry, not as apparent on first glance. Her decisions may seem typical, yet one soon sees they are never selfish, and she too is as much at the receiving end of their father and stepmother’s nefarious objectives as Channi though things may seem attractive on the surface.

As the two sisters face love, loss and tragedy in their own ways, it is their bond that is their strength since whatever happens or doesn’t, they know they are there for each other.

As things come to a head, one starts to see that there can be no easy answers here. The shape they take are heart wrenching though satisfying and the only way it can be for those other stories to play out as they did. Like in the previous books, many of the characters surprise (also, some don’t) and first glances or impressions are not enough to quite understand their complexities and being.

Beautiful and engaging, but also heart rending.

4.25 stars

4.25

Channi’s journey begins with a difficult birth, where she faces threats from her own father. It’s the same day she’s cursed by Angma, setting off a chain of events that will shape her destiny. Despite the hardships she faces, Channi’s unwavering love for her sister Vanna shines through. Their sibling bond is at the heart of the story, driving Channi to do whatever it takes to protect her sister, even if it means facing her own demons. Elizabeth Lim got me hooked with Her Radiant Curse. From the moment I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The way the author wove together Channi’s story with the larger world of the Six Crimson Cranes duology was just brilliant.

One thing that really stood out to me was Channi’s resilience. Despite being treated as a monster by those around her, she never resents her sister or gives up hope. Her relationship with Vanna and her affinity with snakes are her only sources of comfort in a world that fears her. As Channi ventures out into the wider world, she forms an unlikely bond with Hokzuh, a dragon. Their relationship is filled with uncertainty, but Channi’s determination to protect her sister drives her forward, making her one of the fiercest protagonists I’ve come across.

Reading Her Radiant Curse after the Six Crimson Cranes duology was such a treat. It was fascinating to see how the two stories are interconnected and to gain a new perspective on Channi’s character. Elizabeth Lim’s writing drew me in from the very beginning, and I couldn’t help but devour the book in one sitting. It’s a companion novel that adds depth to the larger story while standing strong on its own.

I just love the way Elizabeth Lim writes. I adored Six Crimson Cranes, and was so excited to see we were getting a story about Channi.

Channi's life takes a tragic turn when her father sacrifices her to the Demon Witch, leaving her cursed with a serpent's face. Despite her monstrous appearance, her sister Vanna sees beyond it, offering Channi love and trust. As Vanna faces a marriage contest, Channi must protect her from ruthless suitors, becoming a target herself. Their journey unfolds into a gripping tale of battles, romance, and difficult choices, blending elements of well-known stories like Beauty and the Beast and Helen of Troy with Asian folklore. Elizabeth Lim crafts a captivating fantasy that delves into themes of beauty, sisterhood, and the sacrifices made for love.

"Her Radiant Curse" is a rollercoaster of emotions—dealing with grief, facing prejudices, but also celebrating sisterly love. I also really enjoyed how fantastical it was - curses, creatures, wicked villains and lots of magic. If you love a YA fantasy, and you're looking for page-turner, add this and Six Crimson Cranes to your TBR.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Hodderscape for the e-arc.

I am a huge fan of Elizabeth Lim’s books. I always know I’ll love the story she writes and “Her radiant curse” didn’t disappoint.

I haven’t read “The dragon’s promise” yet, but you can read this one without reading any of the previous books! It’s a beautiful, sad and warm story, about two sisters and their love. Great characters, great love choices, great magic and world building.

I rarely cry at books, but this one broke me! The ending was so so sad, but it made me happy. I loved to see the short connection between this one and “The six crimson cranes”. It’s a very thrilling and engaging story and you’ll find yourself rooting and crying for these characters. Totally recommend!

I will read quite literally ANYTHING Elizabeth Lim writes but I think this has to be my favourite🥹
This was the perfect prequel to the Six Crimson Cranes duology and now I need to read it all over again😭

What a beautiful book. This was my first read by Elizabeth Lim, and I was not disappointed. The writing is poetic and flows beautifully, with characters and settings crafted expertly. I am looking forward to more books by this other, especially as I now understand this is a prequel.

A prequel that beats the duology that it originated from!

I was quite apprehensive diving into this one because I'd been super disappointed with The Dragon's Promise which seemed to lose everything I'd liked about Six Crimson Cranes, and I also don't love villain origin stories, but this works as a standalone and I'm so pleased!

Channi and Vanna are great characters, and Channari is an engaging central character, I could appreciate her for who she was at this stage in her story and ignore the Six Crimson Cranes duology entirely. There were occasional references to the Six Crimson Cranes duology, but nothing that would be missed if you didn't read those two first, and if you haven't read the original duology, then the ending to this one wouldn't be spoiled, so this might be a nice one to start with, or to read alone, if retellings aren't your thing.

Really lovely read, the love of siblings, magic, hope , despair….I can’t decide if there is going to be another one, it’s left finished/ unfinished…beautiful book.

I was unaware this is a prequel to the Six Crimson Cranes but you can read it as a stand alone. I love the world building and layers to the different countries, cultures and creatures.. The characterisation was written with depth making you care for all the characters.
It also served, for me, as a brilliant introduction to Elizabeth Lim's work.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the early access to this book.

This was an engaging book, fast paced and interesting.

I cared about the characters, it was heart-warming. I really liked Six Crimson Cranes, and this gave off similar vibes.

I'd definitely recommend it!

This story explores the complexities of sisterhood and ideals of beauty, including the sinister consequences that can come with beauty. A full-blown fantasy steeped in Chinese folklore, Her Radiant Curse follows the feisty and courageous Channi, cursed in infancy to appear as monstrous as her sister is radiant.

Both sisters face challenges throughout the story that force them to grow as individuals, but also to grow together, despite everything conspiring to tear them apart. I found myself so invested in both girls that I genuinely felt hopeless at the prospect that only one could survive.

Everything about this novel is exceptionally well done. The writing is evocative and the characters are well developed from start to finish. The plot features twists and turns to keep you on your toes and with its fantastic pacing, it makes for a compelling read and gives you everything you'd want from a diverse YA fantasy.

I must be extremely dense because I initially planned to start this review by praising the evocative writing. It was only when I looked closer at the blurb I saw the information that it was set in the same world as 'Six Crimson Cranes', and I realised who I had read about. I loved this book when I set it aside and now, after (so) belatedly figuring out whose origin story this was - it felt all the more thrilling.
Set in a remote location, a father makes a tough choice between his two daughters when the time for sacrifice arrives. This choice leaves one of the girls scarred for life while the other survives, glowing enough for both of them. Both sisters are trying to do something for the other in only the ways they know how. It is never enough for things to go smoothly because more machinations are at play.
The world of the snakes is where our leading lady is most comfortable, having been marked as one of their own. When her younger sister's hand is to be won by auction, the older springs into action. Channi knows what the ultimate end game is, a piece of information she has withheld from her sister thus far. She fights long and hard, and the end is bitter-sweet, with more bitter than sweet, to be honest.
I highly recommend this book regardless of previous experience with the author's other books. The emotional quotient is high, as are the action sequences, making for a very satisfying read.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.

Thanks NetGallery and Hodderscape for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review

“One sister must fall for the other to rise.”

As a big fan of Six Crimson Cranes, I liked to read this spin-off and immerse myself in this fantasy world. I loved discovering Raikama’s past too. Elizabeth Lim's stories are always magical and delightful to read.

This is the story of two sisters, one blessed and the other cursed. While her sister Vanna is beautiful and adored by everyone, Channi is despised by all the villagers except her lovely sister.

Channi’s adventure was thrilling to read, she had been fighting all her life and she wouldn’t give up until achieving her goals. The plot focussed on her journey trying to save her sister and breaking her curse. Although there is little romance (with a lot of tension) I did not feel it was lacking, because in this story love is about sisterhood and friendship.

Reading this book is like living a magical adventure. I enjoyed Channi’s story and felt her distress. It was easy to empathize with her suffering, because her life definitely wasn't easy. But despite this, she is a strong character and she fighted until the end. The story was a rollercoaster of emotions, and I loved it.

"Her Radiant Curse" serves as a prelude to the Six Crimson Cranes duology, unraveling the tale of Channi, burdened with a serpent's visage after being offered to the Witch in an attempt to save her mother. In the years that follow, she seeks refuge in the jungle, finding solace among her serpent companions. The only human who extends kindness to Channi is her sister, Vanna, a girl of unparalleled beauty, born with a radiant golden light.

The narrative is skillfully woven, capturing my attention right from the beginning and refusing to release its grip. The storyline builds upon the foundation laid in The Dragon's Promise, offering a well-crafted expansion. The characters are not only delightful but also undergo thorough development. While reading the Six Crimson Cranes duology beforehand is not imperative, this prequel seamlessly connects with moments that harken back to the events in Six Crimson Cranes.

***Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e copy of this book in exchange for an honest review***

I went into this books COMPLETELY forgetting that it was a prequel to the ‘Six Crimson Cranes’ duology. I requested it because I love Elizabeth Lim’s writing style, the lush world building and beautiful stories she weaves.
Throughout this book there were slight nods that made me remember it was connected to her other books, but this didn’t become apparent until the last 10% when everything came to a head- and honestly it just made me go back and read the last few chapters of Six Crimson Cranes because I forgot how a certain characters story concludes and this was all feeling a bit too sad.
It just made me sadder 😭

I adored the bond of sisterhood between Channi and Vanna in this story, and once more Lim has created an enthralling and beautiful world.
I’m just sad it wasn’t happier- the romantic in me dislikes lack of romance, but the love throughout these pages was still there, and a driving force to these characters motives and actions.

Now I need to go finish the duology 🙈😂

A great magical story. I loved the relationship between the two sisters during the whole story. The fantasy element was so good and magical and all of the descriptions of the world were amazing

ahhh i really enjoyed this! i loved six crimson cranes when i read it so i was super excited to be accepted for this one! it follows the strength and thread between two sisters - one portrayed as ugly, a monster the other as beautiful and desirable. tale as old as time. but the sisterhood and sibling bond just made me ahhh during this, it was so beautiful and stood as a reminder that sibling, familial love is just as significant as romantic love. the combination of classic myths and fairytales was so cleverly told, i found myself having flashbacks to my childhood reading beauty and the beast. thank you netgalley for letting me read and review this x

I'm incredibly grateful to Netgalley and the publisher for generously providing me with a complimentary eARC in exchange for my honest review! Elizabeth Lim has once again captivated me with her storytelling in Her Radiant Curse. After feeling let down by The Dragon's Promise last year, I approached this book with some apprehension. However, I'm thrilled to report that it exceeded my expectations and proved to be a valuable addition to this enchanting world!

Elizabeth Lim's writing is truly enchanting and immersive. I was completely engrossed in the world she created and found myself deeply connected to Channi's perspective. Channi, the main character, is a fascinating individual, especially if you're familiar with her role in Six Crimson Cranes. Her strength and determination are palpable, and the love she holds for her sister, Vanna, radiates from the pages. It was heartwarming to witness how Vanna remained her top priority throughout the story. Despite knowing the eventual outcome (if you've read the main duology), I couldn't help but root for the sisters and become fully invested in their journey, particularly their conflict with the formidable demon witch, Angma.