5 Star Review for ‘Bright Side’ by Kim Holden!

‘Goodreads’ Synopsis:

Secrets.
Everyone has one.
Some are bigger than others.
And when secrets are revealed,
Some will heal you …
And some will end you.

Kate Sedgwick’s life has been anything but typical. She’s endured hardship and tragedy, but throughout it all she remains happy and optimistic (there’s a reason her best friend Gus calls her Bright Side). Kate is strong-willed, funny, smart, and musically gifted. She’s also never believed in love. So when Kate leaves San Diego to attend college in the small town of Grant, Minnesota, the last thing she expects is to fall in love with Keller Banks.

They both feel it.
But they each have a reason to fight it.
They each have a secret.

And when secrets are revealed,
Some will heal you …
And some will end you.

*✿༻༺✿*

DaisyGal’s Review:

This is my first book to read by Kim Holden, and I only heard of ‘Bright Side’ a few months ago although it was written in 2014. I was told that I absolutely ‘had’ to read it, that it was ‘life changing,’ and all of the reviews were simply fantastic. I was also informed that it would most certainly make me cry, and although I enjoy reading all types of romances, I usually stay away from ‘sad’ ones. So, I have been a little on the fence about it – mostly because I don’t want to be a big ol’ cry baby. However, my curiosity finally won out, and I decided to jump on in. All of the recommendations were right. It was incredibly uplifting and such a highly emotional read for me. I laughed, cried, and absolutely came unglued for days, but I still really loved this story nonetheless!

All I can say is that this incredible story touched my heart and soul in so many ways. Not only is Kate’s story inspiring to live life to the fullest, but it also encourages being grateful for what you are given. Every person, every moment, and every day are a gift. So many times, I find myself so busy rushing to get through my task list that I forget this. Kate had such an admirable ability to treasure each moment. She was honest with her feelings but always made the consciousness choice to see the bright side in situations and strive for happiness. She was selfless, brave, and she ‘did epic.’ Kate spent every single moment of every day appreciating what she had right in front of her and making the effort to make a difference in someone’s day. She definitely made a difference in mine, and I will definitely carry Kate’s story close to my heart for a long time.

The story was mostly told from Kate’s point of view, which was very positive and inspiring. There was also a little bit told from Keller’s point of view as well, and I think that seeing his view really enhanced the reality of this story, how truly they were meant to be, and the love they shared. Holden created very real and genuine characters in this book, and I can’t even begin to tell you how much my heart went out to all them!

The next book in the series is ‘Gus,’ who is Kate’s best friend, and the follow up to his story is ‘Franco.’ He is another friend of Kate’s and is also Gus’s band mate. Although I am going to have to take a short break before moving on to these next books (I know, I know, I will eventually pull myself back together), I certainly look forward to reading their stories. I hope at some point to also hear more about Keller as well.

I am so impressed with Kim Holden and her truly talented writing. She conveyed such an inspiring story and totally touched my heart. This book is a true gem, and although it gutted me a bit, it also gave me a strength and determination to live my life in the best way possible. I strongly recommend taking this beautiful journey with Kate and reading this amazing story!

*** 5 Stars for Me! ***

Purchase on Amazon

*✿༻༺✿*

About Author Kim Holden:

Some of my favorite things: reading, writing, the two coolest guys on the planet (my husband and son), my bicycle (my husband built it for me), Facebook (I’m fairly certain it’s an addiction at this point), iced coffee (hazelnut), and music (LOVE Sunset Sons, the 1975, Dredg, the xx, Balance and Composure, Teenage Bottlerocket, and 30 Seconds to Mars). I also love dreaming, which brings me to my next point. I have one bit of advice for anyone reading this … follow your dreams. It’s never too late. Get started today … heck get started RIGHT NOW! I wanted to write a book 20 years ago. Instead I waited. And waited. I should’ve been writing. But I didn’t. I don’t do regrets, because the past is just that, the past. But let me tell you there’s nothing in the world like achieving something you’ve dreamt about for years and years. So, get started. Make your dreams reality.

I love to hear from other readers. Send me a message or find me on Facebook (https://facebook.com/kimholdenauthor) and tell what’s up in your reading world.

*✿༻༺✿*