When India Knight first invites us into the Radlett family, we are introduced to an array of interesting and eclectic characters, who promise just as interesting relationships amongst themselves. Although it is not initially clear that the novel’s main character is Linda Radlett, the narrative swiftly gravitates towards her, demonstrating the irresistibility of her character. India Knight’s choice of title — “Darling” — is, therefore, perfect: it demonstrates both the awe that Linda Radlett inspires, and how Linda Radlett is able to make each character she comes across feel adored.
We are swept up into Linda Radlett’s world as she follows her eccentric neighbour into the world of booze and modelling, before the novel descends into the trilogy of her romantic life.
The first of Linda Radlett’s marriages in the novel is tragic in its simplicity. Linda Radlett is inextricably linked with excess. Not the flashy type. Excess nonetheless. The lack of personality suffocates her.
The second of Linda Radlett’s marriages in the novel is tragic in cliché.
The cringe-worthy poet, who leaves an outsider feeling disconcerted at the sound of his poetry which grapples yet holds on to nothing.
The pretty much failed poet presents himself in a ragged light and speaks with enough confidence as if Shakespeare has strung together his sentences for him so as to allow the subject of his attention to believe that they are privileged to be in his company. Seeing that his affection and his intelligence are both based on his egotism, this façade is all but temporary as the failed poet sees himself better supported elsewhere. This is emphasised in the fact that when Linda Radlett realises this, she does not feel too much emotion except injustice because she has never truly felt love.
he third of Linda Radlett’s marriages in the novel is tragic in its simplicity. Linda Radlett finally manages to find someone who compliments her individualism. Due to the risk of spoilers, I will be saying no more on this matter.
From the perspective of her cousin, we are given a raw insight into the true character of Linda Radlett, as when she is able to live her most Romantic life, is when she is able to find the most stability. At other times muted, it is not that Linda Radlett is an unstable character, but rather that she seeks whirlwind. Linda Radlett’s peace thrives on chaos. By creating a third-person narrative, we are able to see how Linda Radlett’s presence graces other people — as this is where her true charm is displayed and shown.