Discover Fresh Stories: Your Next Book Month Awaits
- Lo Hatt
- Jul 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 15
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Bright Side by Kim Holden
Tired of the same old, same old? Our Book of the Month is here to hopefully help you find your next read.
Our First Pick:
Alright booklovers, with summer finally here, it felt only right to start our reading journey with a book that's been a long-time favorite and just radiates warmth. I first discovered Kim Holden's Bright Side nearly a decade ago, and it quickly became one of those books I constantly revisit – my ultimate cure for any reading slump! Seeing it pop up everywhere recently, thanks to its 10th anniversary in 2024, just solidified that it's time to share the love for this incredible story.
Get Ready for All the Feels!
Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster, because Bright Side is going to take you on a journey! You'll smile, laugh, swoon, and yes, definitely cry – so grab those tissues, seriously. From the moment you dive in, this book wraps you in a unique blend of warmth, wit, and raw emotion. If it gets slow on you at any point, don't give up.
The story follows the incredible friendship between Kate, our vibrant main female character, and her childhood best friend, Gus (who lovingly calls her Bright Side). Growing up in California, Kate faced a tough life but always found light, especially at Gus's house with his mom, who was more of a mother to her than her own. The book opens with Kate heading to college in Minnesota on a scholarship, while Gus is busy building his band. As the years unfold, so does their epic story and friendship, showing how deeply they impact each other's lives.
Kate's "do epic" isn't just some cute saying; it's totally how she rolls. Seriously, her can-do attitude and pure love for life are infectious. Get ready, because as you read, you'll feel yourself wanting to grab every opportunity, create your own awesome moments, and totally see the glass half full, just like she does. This book will make you want to live life to the max, appreciate the little things, always find your own silver lining. find joy in the small things, and always look for your own "bright side."
The Epic Doesn't Stop There!
This summary just scratches the surface, because Ms. Kim Holden's writing completely pulls you into Kate's world – it's effortless. She crafts dialogue that feels incredibly real and creates scenes that stick with you long after you've finished. It's a book that'll remind you of the awesome power of friendship, how important it is to live authentically, and the sheer guts it takes to face life's ups and downs with an open heart.
But here's the best part: the adventure doesn't end with Bright Side! Ms. Kim Holden gifted us with two more books in this world that continue their story: Gus and Franco. So, if you fall in love with Kate and Gus like I did, you've got more to look forward to!
IMO ~ Book Lover Personal Notes:
IMO Book Rating: 5/5
Spice Rating: 2 closed-door romance/focus is more on relationship development
(see our page on IMO spice rating here)
Tropes:
Publication Date: July 6, 2014
Availability:
Amazon Kindle, Amazon Paperback, Audible
(As of July 2025- All 3 book are also available on Kindle Unlimited and audible !)
Paperback:
5/5, Great Size, Easy to hold open in hands, soft pages (There are a few versions)
Page Length:
466
Time Read:
One Day—
Favorite Character:
Kate-
IMO Main Thoughts On Book:
In my opinion, this book offers a powerful reminder to focus on all the good that life can bring. Even when you've been dealt a challenging hand, when things don't unfold as planned, or when circumstances seem to be working against you, there's always a bright side. Furthermore, you possess the ability to be a bright side for someone else. We are all inherently gifted with an inner light, but it is truly up to each of us to allow that light to shine through. It's our choice whether to keep it hidden or to let it radiate brightly into the world, embracing each day to live an epic life.
This concept resonates deeply with me, much like an insightful self-help book I read years ago titled Shine Brighter by Fred Dodini (which I highly recommend!). It aligns significantly with Kate's perspective in this novel. My sincere hope is that everyone can discover and embrace their own light each day.
Favorite Scene or quote:
" Today, my life is awesome. I don't want to think about tomorrow. Or the day after that. So I repeat to myself: Today, my life is awesome."
"Go. Do Epic."
―Kim Holden, Bright Side
Author's Site:
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Please remember how we perceive a book, and ultimately form an opinion, is deeply influenced by our individual tastes, past encounters, and even our current feelings.
Shine Bright!
Lo-The Book Lover