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Look on the Bright Side
From the author of Pack Up the Moon comes a funny, romantic, and deeply moving novel about the unexpected rewards that come from life’s detours.
Lark Smith has always had a plan for her life: find a fantastic guy, create a marriage as blissful as her parents’, pop out a couple of kids and build a rewarding career as an oncologist.
Things aren’t going so well.
For one, the guy didn’t work out. Theoretically, she’d love to find someone else, but it hasn’t happened. Two, she’s just been transferred out of oncology for being too emotional. (Is it her fault she’s a weeper?) Three, her parents just split up.
Deviating from the plan was…well, not in the plan. A potential solution comes from the foul-tempered and renowned surgeon Lorenzo Santini (aka Dr. Satan). He needs a date this summer for his sister’s wedding. His ancient Noni wants to see him settled. In exchange, he could make a few introductions and maybe get Lark back into the field of her choice.
As a sucker for old people and fake relationships, Lark agrees. Teeny problem—she instantly falls for his big, warm family. Especially his estranged brother.
Meanwhile, Lark’s mom has moved in with Lark’s flamboyant landlady, Joy, and an unlikely friendship blossoms. The three women have a long summer and a big beautiful house on the ocean to figure out what’s next…and quite possibly learn that the best things in life aren’t planned at all.
Lark Smith has always had a plan for her life: find a fantastic guy, create a marriage as blissful as her parents’, pop out a couple of kids and build a rewarding career as an oncologist.
Things aren’t going so well.
For one, the guy didn’t work out. Theoretically, she’d love to find someone else, but it hasn’t happened. Two, she’s just been transferred out of oncology for being too emotional. (Is it her fault she’s a weeper?) Three, her parents just split up.
Deviating from the plan was…well, not in the plan. A potential solution comes from the foul-tempered and renowned surgeon Lorenzo Santini (aka Dr. Satan). He needs a date this summer for his sister’s wedding. His ancient Noni wants to see him settled. In exchange, he could make a few introductions and maybe get Lark back into the field of her choice.
As a sucker for old people and fake relationships, Lark agrees. Teeny problem—she instantly falls for his big, warm family. Especially his estranged brother.
Meanwhile, Lark’s mom has moved in with Lark’s flamboyant landlady, Joy, and an unlikely friendship blossoms. The three women have a long summer and a big beautiful house on the ocean to figure out what’s next…and quite possibly learn that the best things in life aren’t planned at all.
416 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 28, 2024
975 people are currently reading
20450 people want to read
About the author
Kristan Higgins
65 books13k followersKristan Higgins is the New York Times, USA TODAY and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than twenty novels, which have been translated into more than two dozen languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide. If you want to receive a free short story and be notified when Kristan releases a new book, sign up at kristanhiggins.com.
Kristan enjoys gardening, mixology, the National Parks and complimenting strangers on their children. The mother of two entertaining and wonderful humans, and the grandmother of one perfect child, Kristan lives in Connecticut with her heroic firefighter husband, cuddly dog and indifferent cat.
Kristan enjoys gardening, mixology, the National Parks and complimenting strangers on their children. The mother of two entertaining and wonderful humans, and the grandmother of one perfect child, Kristan lives in Connecticut with her heroic firefighter husband, cuddly dog and indifferent cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,679 reviews
March 4, 2024
A Feel Good Read!
Look on the Bright Side is a novel about friendship, loss, and change.
This is the story of three women at a crossroads experiencing dramatic and traumatic changes in their lives. Two of the three characters are related to Harlow Smith, the MC in A Little Ray of Sunshine but you don’t have to read that one to enjoy this.
Lark, a medical resident in Oncology, is sent to work in the ER after being called out for getting too emotionally attached to her patients. When a renowned surgeon known as Dr. Satan offers her the opportunity to introduce her to his contacts in exchange for serving as his fake girlfriend for two months.
Although the plot suggests a rom-com, this is not a romance, although romance is mixed in. Rather, this is a good dose of women’s fiction.
The other two storylines revolve around a 67-year-old woman named Joy trying to cope with her brother's death, and Ellie, Lark’s mother, whose marriage is about to implode.
The narrative alternates between the three women, and a good chunk is told in flashbacks of Lark’s past. The beginning is centered on Lark, so I was a bit surprised when the other women's POVs were added, but this didn’t detract from my enjoyment.
I enjoyed all three characters, although Lark’s is dominant. She is a little annoying at first (she cries at everything), but she had me shedding a few tears in the end.
The setting in Cape Cod was my favorite part of the novel. Higgins transported me from dreary weather and added some sunshine! I also loved seeing many of the eccentric characters featured in Higgins’ previous books, especially Grandpop.
I needed a change of pace from the dismal thrillers I have been reading, and this book hit the spot. The characters are relatable and easy to like, the pacing is fast, the plot isn't too heavy, and the atmosphere is dreamy. This book was a much-welcome escape from reality!
Thank you to Elisha Katz from Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.
Look on the Bright Side is a novel about friendship, loss, and change.
This is the story of three women at a crossroads experiencing dramatic and traumatic changes in their lives. Two of the three characters are related to Harlow Smith, the MC in A Little Ray of Sunshine but you don’t have to read that one to enjoy this.
Lark, a medical resident in Oncology, is sent to work in the ER after being called out for getting too emotionally attached to her patients. When a renowned surgeon known as Dr. Satan offers her the opportunity to introduce her to his contacts in exchange for serving as his fake girlfriend for two months.
Although the plot suggests a rom-com, this is not a romance, although romance is mixed in. Rather, this is a good dose of women’s fiction.
The other two storylines revolve around a 67-year-old woman named Joy trying to cope with her brother's death, and Ellie, Lark’s mother, whose marriage is about to implode.
The narrative alternates between the three women, and a good chunk is told in flashbacks of Lark’s past. The beginning is centered on Lark, so I was a bit surprised when the other women's POVs were added, but this didn’t detract from my enjoyment.
I enjoyed all three characters, although Lark’s is dominant. She is a little annoying at first (she cries at everything), but she had me shedding a few tears in the end.
The setting in Cape Cod was my favorite part of the novel. Higgins transported me from dreary weather and added some sunshine! I also loved seeing many of the eccentric characters featured in Higgins’ previous books, especially Grandpop.
I needed a change of pace from the dismal thrillers I have been reading, and this book hit the spot. The characters are relatable and easy to like, the pacing is fast, the plot isn't too heavy, and the atmosphere is dreamy. This book was a much-welcome escape from reality!
Thank you to Elisha Katz from Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of this book.
June 22, 2024
3.5🌟
This book had a heavier feel to it than I expected.
Lark is an oncology resident flunking out of her program because she can’t stop crying for her patients. She’s quickly relocated to Emergency medicine. Fix em and move em out. No time for tears!
Her only way back into her coveted oncology position is if renowned surgeon Dr. Santini puts in a good word for her. All she needs to do is pretend to be his girlfriend through the summer and attend his sister’s wedding.
Ultimately, with the goal of convincing his dying grandmother he won’t be alone. Nothing more, just a few dinners. Sounds easy enough, right?! But there’s a good reason everyone refers to him as Dr. Satan!
Well this premise sounded sweet enough. A nice, contemporary novel to give me a break from all my thrillers. But then…
There was so much sadness radiating off of EVERY character in this book (except maybe Connery, the dog.) I believe every reader will find something triggering. I know I did.
So, reader beware.
A buddy read with Susanne.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
This book had a heavier feel to it than I expected.
Lark is an oncology resident flunking out of her program because she can’t stop crying for her patients. She’s quickly relocated to Emergency medicine. Fix em and move em out. No time for tears!
Her only way back into her coveted oncology position is if renowned surgeon Dr. Santini puts in a good word for her. All she needs to do is pretend to be his girlfriend through the summer and attend his sister’s wedding.
Ultimately, with the goal of convincing his dying grandmother he won’t be alone. Nothing more, just a few dinners. Sounds easy enough, right?! But there’s a good reason everyone refers to him as Dr. Satan!
Well this premise sounded sweet enough. A nice, contemporary novel to give me a break from all my thrillers. But then…
There was so much sadness radiating off of EVERY character in this book (except maybe Connery, the dog.) I believe every reader will find something triggering. I know I did.
So, reader beware.
A buddy read with Susanne.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing Group via NetGalley.
May 19, 2024
Look on the Bright Side had me tearing up by the end!
Lark Smith is rotating through oncology when she's told she will be sent to rotate through the ER instead because she gets too emotional with her patients. Yet, the only thing she wants is to become an oncologist, so when Dr. Lorenzo "Satan" Santini offers her an exchange she decides to accept it. Dr. Satan needs a date for the next three months to convince his dying grandmother that he is not alone. If Lark says yes, he will call his connections to get her closer to an oncology position. The last thing Lark was expecting was to fall for his family and for his brother, Dante.
Chapter by chapter, we start discovering what happened to Lark and why she has an obsession with oncology. At the same time, we also get two more POVs. One is Lark's mother Ellie. The other one is Joy, Lark's landlady.
The summer will be a summer of growth for all three.
Look on the Bright Side is a woman's fiction novel with a side of romance. It is also about loss, healing, and self-discovery.
As always, Kristan Higgins writes an emotional ride that I can't help but enjoy.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Lark Smith is rotating through oncology when she's told she will be sent to rotate through the ER instead because she gets too emotional with her patients. Yet, the only thing she wants is to become an oncologist, so when Dr. Lorenzo "Satan" Santini offers her an exchange she decides to accept it. Dr. Satan needs a date for the next three months to convince his dying grandmother that he is not alone. If Lark says yes, he will call his connections to get her closer to an oncology position. The last thing Lark was expecting was to fall for his family and for his brother, Dante.
Chapter by chapter, we start discovering what happened to Lark and why she has an obsession with oncology. At the same time, we also get two more POVs. One is Lark's mother Ellie. The other one is Joy, Lark's landlady.
The summer will be a summer of growth for all three.
Look on the Bright Side is a woman's fiction novel with a side of romance. It is also about loss, healing, and self-discovery.
As always, Kristan Higgins writes an emotional ride that I can't help but enjoy.
Cliffhanger: No
4/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Berkley via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
September 27, 2024
This book was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed. So, having the beach as a backdrop and a dog happily walking beside a young woman on a bike, it looked like a light read that I was needing in this moment. Even its subtitle, “second chances come once in a lifetime” seemed enticing. But would the story meet up to this breezy cover?
Dr. Lark Smith is our heroine. She is a twin from a close, loving family, and she is an oncology resident at Hyannis Hospital. As readers, we quickly become attracted to Lark by her character’s smartness and reliability. But it doesn’t take long for us to learn about her own grief and loss of her soul mate years earlier. Apparently, these memories make her new assignment in the Oncology ward too hard to bear, and she is transferred out.
The head surgeon of the hospital, Lorenzo Santini does not like Lark. Nor does anyone else like him. Hmmm…what does this mean in rom-com language?
Lark wants back in to Oncology, and she needs Santini to help. Santini needs Lark’s help with a situation, so now what does that mean for them? A make-believe relationship? Oh no, do we have an idea where this is headed? Will-they-or-won’t-they?
But wait there is more. There is Ellie, and there is Joy. How do their stories play in to all of this?
Told from the alternating P.O.V.’s of these characters, it is best to just be here to figure it out. Maybe friendship and love will find a place between these pages?
Dr. Lark Smith is our heroine. She is a twin from a close, loving family, and she is an oncology resident at Hyannis Hospital. As readers, we quickly become attracted to Lark by her character’s smartness and reliability. But it doesn’t take long for us to learn about her own grief and loss of her soul mate years earlier. Apparently, these memories make her new assignment in the Oncology ward too hard to bear, and she is transferred out.
The head surgeon of the hospital, Lorenzo Santini does not like Lark. Nor does anyone else like him. Hmmm…what does this mean in rom-com language?
Lark wants back in to Oncology, and she needs Santini to help. Santini needs Lark’s help with a situation, so now what does that mean for them? A make-believe relationship? Oh no, do we have an idea where this is headed? Will-they-or-won’t-they?
But wait there is more. There is Ellie, and there is Joy. How do their stories play in to all of this?
Told from the alternating P.O.V.’s of these characters, it is best to just be here to figure it out. Maybe friendship and love will find a place between these pages?
May 31, 2024
the setup…
Larkby (Lark) Smith is a 33-year old resident in Oncology at Hyannis Hospital, her long-time dream. But she’s just blown it, her tendency to get too emotionally connected to her patients erupting for the umpteenth time and now she’s being moved to Emergency. Then she gets a summons from Dr. Lorenzo Santini (aka Dr. Satan) to meet her for dinner. Lark has her own miserable experience with the man who’s aptly earned his hospital nickname and can’t imagine why he wants to see her. See, Lorenzo’s 99-year old grandmother (Noni) is dying and he wants her to rest in peace knowing that he’s in a relationship with someone other than her to care for him. In return for her being his fake girlfriend for the summer, Lorenzo will facilitate Lark’s transfer back to Oncology. What could go wrong?
the heart of the story…
Lorenzo isn’t known as Dr. Satan for nothing and Lark has the daunting task of getting people to understand what she sees in the foul behaving man, genius and brilliance notwithstanding. When she meets his family, it’s so much easier but you can tell Lorenzo learned everything from his Noni (she’s just awful). Trouble is, Lark’s also immediately drawn to his firefighter brother Dante and the family is not in on the ruse. As things progress, Lark’s history slowly emerges and it’s heartbreaking. Meanwhile, there’s trouble brewing with Lark’s parents as Ellie discovers a betrayal and moves in with Lark’s landlady Joy.
the narration…
Lark, Ellie and Joy provide the points of view for the story and I’m so grateful there were separate performers for each of these characters. All seemed to inhabit and “get” them, making me believe in their distinctions and storytelling. They elevated an already great story.
the bottom line…
There are lots of hilarious moments to balance the deeply emotional aspects but have the tissues at the ready. One particular scene had me almost sobbing in its grace, sadness and beauty. It’s a fine piece of writing. I’m always guaranteed exceptionally layered characters and stories from Higgins and the payoff here was enormous. These are characters you become invested in quickly and have a stake in what happens. I loved every single thing about it, tears and all.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and Recorded Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Larkby (Lark) Smith is a 33-year old resident in Oncology at Hyannis Hospital, her long-time dream. But she’s just blown it, her tendency to get too emotionally connected to her patients erupting for the umpteenth time and now she’s being moved to Emergency. Then she gets a summons from Dr. Lorenzo Santini (aka Dr. Satan) to meet her for dinner. Lark has her own miserable experience with the man who’s aptly earned his hospital nickname and can’t imagine why he wants to see her. See, Lorenzo’s 99-year old grandmother (Noni) is dying and he wants her to rest in peace knowing that he’s in a relationship with someone other than her to care for him. In return for her being his fake girlfriend for the summer, Lorenzo will facilitate Lark’s transfer back to Oncology. What could go wrong?
the heart of the story…
Lorenzo isn’t known as Dr. Satan for nothing and Lark has the daunting task of getting people to understand what she sees in the foul behaving man, genius and brilliance notwithstanding. When she meets his family, it’s so much easier but you can tell Lorenzo learned everything from his Noni (she’s just awful). Trouble is, Lark’s also immediately drawn to his firefighter brother Dante and the family is not in on the ruse. As things progress, Lark’s history slowly emerges and it’s heartbreaking. Meanwhile, there’s trouble brewing with Lark’s parents as Ellie discovers a betrayal and moves in with Lark’s landlady Joy.
the narration…
Lark, Ellie and Joy provide the points of view for the story and I’m so grateful there were separate performers for each of these characters. All seemed to inhabit and “get” them, making me believe in their distinctions and storytelling. They elevated an already great story.
the bottom line…
There are lots of hilarious moments to balance the deeply emotional aspects but have the tissues at the ready. One particular scene had me almost sobbing in its grace, sadness and beauty. It’s a fine piece of writing. I’m always guaranteed exceptionally layered characters and stories from Higgins and the payoff here was enormous. These are characters you become invested in quickly and have a stake in what happens. I loved every single thing about it, tears and all.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to NetGalley and Recorded Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
June 5, 2024
Look at the Bright Side by Kristan Higgins
Contemporary women’s fiction, with a minor romance thread. Chick lit. Cancer loss and recovery theme. Multiple POV’s and timelines via memories.
Lark Smith has always had plans to be a doctor in oncology. But her consistent sobbing along with the families is too much for everyone and she’s moved to the ER. When a grumpy surgeon asks Lark to be his pretend temporary girlfriend, she agrees if he will introduce and recommend her to the Oncology department.
Meanwhile, Lark’s mother is going through a rough patch in her marriage. She moves into the large house of Lark’s landlord, Joy, to get some perspective and space from her long-term husband. Joy is grafeful to have some company in her lonely life.
The three woman assess their current situations, while remembering how they got to this point. The question will be for all of them: What do they want next?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook copy narrated by Susan Bennett, Christina Moore, and Xe Sands.
The narration start out sounding muffled, and in a low octave. Both these factors required the volume kicked up considerably to listen to the story. This was consistent for the character POV of Lark, through the recording.
Chapter 4 and the change of narrators and POV of Ellie and then Joy, improves the underwater feeling of the first narrator.
The performances were well done and brought lots of tears, sadness, joy, and even a laugh or two. But the majority of the POV is for Lark which meant the majority of this audiobook had less than good quality sound.
The story itself is wonderful. Emotionally wringing. A cryer. Ultimately happy ending.
I would recommend, if you have an option, to read the book, rather than listen to the audiobook. Overall, it does present the story, but that muffled, underwater sound quality is a disappointment and takes away from the story.
I received an audiobook copy from NetGalley and publisher Recorded Books.
Contemporary women’s fiction, with a minor romance thread. Chick lit. Cancer loss and recovery theme. Multiple POV’s and timelines via memories.
Lark Smith has always had plans to be a doctor in oncology. But her consistent sobbing along with the families is too much for everyone and she’s moved to the ER. When a grumpy surgeon asks Lark to be his pretend temporary girlfriend, she agrees if he will introduce and recommend her to the Oncology department.
Meanwhile, Lark’s mother is going through a rough patch in her marriage. She moves into the large house of Lark’s landlord, Joy, to get some perspective and space from her long-term husband. Joy is grafeful to have some company in her lonely life.
The three woman assess their current situations, while remembering how they got to this point. The question will be for all of them: What do they want next?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook copy narrated by Susan Bennett, Christina Moore, and Xe Sands.
The narration start out sounding muffled, and in a low octave. Both these factors required the volume kicked up considerably to listen to the story. This was consistent for the character POV of Lark, through the recording.
Chapter 4 and the change of narrators and POV of Ellie and then Joy, improves the underwater feeling of the first narrator.
The performances were well done and brought lots of tears, sadness, joy, and even a laugh or two. But the majority of the POV is for Lark which meant the majority of this audiobook had less than good quality sound.
The story itself is wonderful. Emotionally wringing. A cryer. Ultimately happy ending.
I would recommend, if you have an option, to read the book, rather than listen to the audiobook. Overall, it does present the story, but that muffled, underwater sound quality is a disappointment and takes away from the story.
I received an audiobook copy from NetGalley and publisher Recorded Books.
June 1, 2024
4-4.5⭐️ After being transferred out of Oncology for crying too much, Lark Smith is faced with a choice - pretend to be the girlfriend of Dr. “Satan” (an ER attending) for his sister’s wedding to alleviate his dying grandmother’s worries in exchange for an oncology recommendation at a different hospital, or be permanently remanded to the ER. However, things quickly become complicated when she develops an instant attraction to his brother.
This was just the book I needed at the time I needed it. The universe has been sending me book after book about the importance of human connections, and I found this book offers the same. At its core, this story is about how pivotal those connections are to the human experience. Told from three view points, each character is facing their own lack of connections, whether it’s friendships, love, or losing the connection or a spouse. And as we progress through the story, we see those connections begin to blossom.
Kristan Higgins writes these gorgeous, complex emotional stories with strong, but realistically flawed characters who you end up feeling as though you know. In this story, we get not just one dynamic MC, but three - each with a very distinct voice and set of experiences that make them wholly unique. As someone who loves the theme of found family and the power of friendship, I was emotionally invested in both Lorenzo’s family and Lark’s, and in the friendship that develops between the two other MCs.
🎧 I read this via audio, in addition to the physical book. The full cast narration made it easy to follow along with the changing points of view, and each of the narrators added that extra bit of emotion Higgins books are so well known for.
Read if you like:
•women’s fiction
•multi-generational stories
•marriage in crisis
•found family
•female friendships
•emotional reads multiple POVs
Thank you Berkley Pub and Recorded Books for the gifted copies.
This was just the book I needed at the time I needed it. The universe has been sending me book after book about the importance of human connections, and I found this book offers the same. At its core, this story is about how pivotal those connections are to the human experience. Told from three view points, each character is facing their own lack of connections, whether it’s friendships, love, or losing the connection or a spouse. And as we progress through the story, we see those connections begin to blossom.
Kristan Higgins writes these gorgeous, complex emotional stories with strong, but realistically flawed characters who you end up feeling as though you know. In this story, we get not just one dynamic MC, but three - each with a very distinct voice and set of experiences that make them wholly unique. As someone who loves the theme of found family and the power of friendship, I was emotionally invested in both Lorenzo’s family and Lark’s, and in the friendship that develops between the two other MCs.
🎧 I read this via audio, in addition to the physical book. The full cast narration made it easy to follow along with the changing points of view, and each of the narrators added that extra bit of emotion Higgins books are so well known for.
Read if you like:
•women’s fiction
•multi-generational stories
•marriage in crisis
•found family
•female friendships
•emotional reads multiple POVs
Thank you Berkley Pub and Recorded Books for the gifted copies.
February 9, 2024
The groundhog has made it official, but if you live in flyover country you are well aware . . . .
But since I’m a fool as soon as the temperatures went from 30 below to 60 above my TBR got chucked right out the window so I could take a trip to my Summer home . . .
Okay, my IMAGINARY Summer home. But seriously, though, you give me a hint of Spring and I am all about Elin Hilderbrand and Kristan Higgans who are my go-to gals for some beachy good times. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this and just took a gander at the blurb now that I’m finished to see exactly what I should/should not be spoiling. I’ll keep the details to myself, but just be forewarned it’s not quite as breezy as the lighthearted synopsis might have you believe and if you are a crier, you best get your Kleenex ready because there’s more to this fake dating trope than meets the eye.
I didn’t realize there would be more than one narrator so that sort of threw me for a loop and it took me a little while to enjoy Lark’s mother. The landlady, though? Oh I want to be her when I grow up. Maybe this wasn’t my favorite Higgans’ story (because I was expecting something much lighter), but she’s still an auto read for me so I’ll happily round up my 3.5 Stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
But since I’m a fool as soon as the temperatures went from 30 below to 60 above my TBR got chucked right out the window so I could take a trip to my Summer home . . .
Okay, my IMAGINARY Summer home. But seriously, though, you give me a hint of Spring and I am all about Elin Hilderbrand and Kristan Higgans who are my go-to gals for some beachy good times. I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this and just took a gander at the blurb now that I’m finished to see exactly what I should/should not be spoiling. I’ll keep the details to myself, but just be forewarned it’s not quite as breezy as the lighthearted synopsis might have you believe and if you are a crier, you best get your Kleenex ready because there’s more to this fake dating trope than meets the eye.
I didn’t realize there would be more than one narrator so that sort of threw me for a loop and it took me a little while to enjoy Lark’s mother. The landlady, though? Oh I want to be her when I grow up. Maybe this wasn’t my favorite Higgans’ story (because I was expecting something much lighter), but she’s still an auto read for me so I’ll happily round up my 3.5 Stars.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2024
This is one story that definitely will pull on your heartstrings. You could be laughing and smiling on one page and tears rolling on the next page.
This book has a few triggers in it especially surrounding the death of a loved one and chronic illness. But it’s also filled with love and life. It’s a story of family and permitting yourself to open your heart.
Higgins writes the most amazing stories that are impossible to put down. She has this beautiful way of telling a story that envelopes you. This new release is one of those stories.
Just a warning, don’t read the story without a box of tissues. There are many sad parts, but it’s balanced beautifully with funny, snarky comments that make you smile. Strong family ties and bravery are a focus too.
Look on the Bright Side tells a story of romance like none other with amazing characters who leave a memorable impression on you.
Funny and crushingly sad, this is a beautiful story of love and learning to live again.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/look-on-the-...
This book has a few triggers in it especially surrounding the death of a loved one and chronic illness. But it’s also filled with love and life. It’s a story of family and permitting yourself to open your heart.
Higgins writes the most amazing stories that are impossible to put down. She has this beautiful way of telling a story that envelopes you. This new release is one of those stories.
Just a warning, don’t read the story without a box of tissues. There are many sad parts, but it’s balanced beautifully with funny, snarky comments that make you smile. Strong family ties and bravery are a focus too.
Look on the Bright Side tells a story of romance like none other with amazing characters who leave a memorable impression on you.
Funny and crushingly sad, this is a beautiful story of love and learning to live again.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* full review - https://amidlifewife.com/look-on-the-...
June 2, 2024
Look on the Bright Side by Kristan Higgins is a new women’s ficiton or contemporary romance novel. The story in Look on the Bright Side is one that is told mainly in the present time but there are a few chapters flashing back to earlier events. This one is also one that changes the point of view between characters however it’s two of the ladies switching the POV and not the male character.
Lark Smith had her life mapped out at a very young age and life most that included marriage, children and a career. Things didn’t exactly go as planned for Lark though when she thought she was in reach of a few of her goals. Now Lark is losing another step on her path when she’s transferred from Oncology to the ER because she can’t stop crying with each terminal patient.
Just as Lark is coming to terms with the move she is contacted by Lorenzo Santini or as he is better known, Dr. Satan. While Lorenzo has made many at the hospital cry Lark tries not to let him affect her when he tosses out an odd proposal, to be his fake date for the summer. Being a sucker for family and grandmother’s in particular Lark couldn’t turn down the request.
Look on the Bright Side by Kristan Higgins is a story that will take you on an emotional roller coaster as you get to know the characters and the backstory to what makes Lark who she is. The side story of Lark’s mother and Ellie, Lark’s landlady, was also enjoyable to read too but Lark really stole my heart early on. I was drawn into this with the whole fake dating trope since I always enjoy those but this one had some nice surprises in store for me that I definitely didn’t expect so hats off to the author since that rarely happens in any genre. Definitely an author and story to check out.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Lark Smith had her life mapped out at a very young age and life most that included marriage, children and a career. Things didn’t exactly go as planned for Lark though when she thought she was in reach of a few of her goals. Now Lark is losing another step on her path when she’s transferred from Oncology to the ER because she can’t stop crying with each terminal patient.
Just as Lark is coming to terms with the move she is contacted by Lorenzo Santini or as he is better known, Dr. Satan. While Lorenzo has made many at the hospital cry Lark tries not to let him affect her when he tosses out an odd proposal, to be his fake date for the summer. Being a sucker for family and grandmother’s in particular Lark couldn’t turn down the request.
Look on the Bright Side by Kristan Higgins is a story that will take you on an emotional roller coaster as you get to know the characters and the backstory to what makes Lark who she is. The side story of Lark’s mother and Ellie, Lark’s landlady, was also enjoyable to read too but Lark really stole my heart early on. I was drawn into this with the whole fake dating trope since I always enjoy those but this one had some nice surprises in store for me that I definitely didn’t expect so hats off to the author since that rarely happens in any genre. Definitely an author and story to check out.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 16, 2024
This book has the best, the worst, and some of the most humorous parts of life wrapped in an unputdownable package. I laughed, I cried, and I kept turning the page to see how Lark, her family and her friends would work through all that is their messy yet wonderful life. It's definitely worth your time to get to know them. -Jen K.
May 28, 2024
Lark Smith is a resident Physician who has a dream of becoming an Oncologist; the tricky thing about that is she is too emotional for the job and gets kicked out of the Oncology department. Lorenzo Santini, better known as Dr. Satan at the hospital, has a proposal for her; be in a fake relationship with him to make his Noni happy in the last months of her life in exchange for Lorenzo's endorsement to the Oncology department head. All Lark has to do is attend a few family events with Lorenzo and she will be back where she belongs. Look on the Bright Side is told in alternating POVs: Lark (past and present), Ellie Smith (Lark's Mom), and Joy (Lark's landlady and friend).
Review:
Wow! Look on the Bright Side is not your typical fake dating love story; it is actually the exact opposite. It is filled with hard emotional stories of Lark's life and the loves of her life, Ellie's marriage hardships, and Joy's life reflection and finding the joy in her life again after loss. I was not fully prepared for the emotional depth and rollercoaster that Look on the Bright Side had in store for me. It is beautiful and it is gut wrenching. I cried many times throughout reading it. The story telling in this book is absolutely fantastic! I loved the way these stories interconnected and how deeply invested I was in these characters. I highly HIGHLY suggest reading Look on the Bright Side! 4.5 stars
Look on the Bright Side publishes on 5/28. What are you waiting for? Go pick up your copy!
Thank you NetGalley, Kristan Higgins, and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC of Look on the Bright Side in exchange for an honest review!
Review:
Wow! Look on the Bright Side is not your typical fake dating love story; it is actually the exact opposite. It is filled with hard emotional stories of Lark's life and the loves of her life, Ellie's marriage hardships, and Joy's life reflection and finding the joy in her life again after loss. I was not fully prepared for the emotional depth and rollercoaster that Look on the Bright Side had in store for me. It is beautiful and it is gut wrenching. I cried many times throughout reading it. The story telling in this book is absolutely fantastic! I loved the way these stories interconnected and how deeply invested I was in these characters. I highly HIGHLY suggest reading Look on the Bright Side! 4.5 stars
Look on the Bright Side publishes on 5/28. What are you waiting for? Go pick up your copy!
Thank you NetGalley, Kristan Higgins, and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC of Look on the Bright Side in exchange for an honest review!
May 25, 2024
"LOOK AT THE BRIGHT SIDE" spotlights the daunting challenges of three women:
* Lark, an oncology resident who cries too much and gets transferred to the ER due to her failure to control her emotions.
* Ellie, the mother of Lark.
* Joy, an eccentric neighbor dealing with family grief.
I listened to the audiobook read by Xe Sands, Susan Bennett, and Christina Moore.
Xe Sands was the dominant narrator and her narration was NOT GOOD.
Throughout her entire narration, Xe Sands (Lark) was mumbling and very difficult to understand. (Possible sound engineer problem?)
Other times her narration was monotone and lacked affect.
In addition to the poor quality of the Xe Sands narration, I had issues with the book's slow pacing.
LOOK AT THE BRIGHT SIDE #1:
This Bostonian loved the Cape Code setting
LOOK AT THE BRIGHT SIDE #2:
Narrators Susan Bennett and Christina Moore did a superb job with their narrations.
I am a huge fan of Kristan Higgens so perhaps my expectations were too high.
A narrator can make or break an audiobook book and the Xe Sands narration negatively impacted my reading/listening; resulting in a 2-star rating for this book.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2025
A multi-generational story that filled my heart with joy!
Lark, a thirty-something oncology resident that’s just been kicked out of the specialty for not being able to hack the emotional impact. We find out how her happily-ever-after was shattered, which was heartbreaking. She gets a bit of fun with an offer from “Dr. Satan” which was so fun! It ends up being instrumental in her moving on from her grief.
Ellie, Lark’s mom has a marriage and career everyone envies, but she encounters a bump in the road that has her spiraling and hopping mad! I loved her story and rooted for her marriage and career-in-crisis situation. She had wonderful support from Joy, Lark’s landlady.
Joy, an older, rich, glamorous woman with little going on in her life. She had a hard beginning. Awful parents but an amazing brother! Until Lark and Ellie came into her life, she was kind of directionless. I loved that as she helped them, they also helped her find purpose and self-esteem!
Look on the Bright Side was so utterly wonderful! It brought out so many emotions! I laughed, I cried, I was ticked! By the end my heart soared with joy!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
Lark, a thirty-something oncology resident that’s just been kicked out of the specialty for not being able to hack the emotional impact. We find out how her happily-ever-after was shattered, which was heartbreaking. She gets a bit of fun with an offer from “Dr. Satan” which was so fun! It ends up being instrumental in her moving on from her grief.
Ellie, Lark’s mom has a marriage and career everyone envies, but she encounters a bump in the road that has her spiraling and hopping mad! I loved her story and rooted for her marriage and career-in-crisis situation. She had wonderful support from Joy, Lark’s landlady.
Joy, an older, rich, glamorous woman with little going on in her life. She had a hard beginning. Awful parents but an amazing brother! Until Lark and Ellie came into her life, she was kind of directionless. I loved that as she helped them, they also helped her find purpose and self-esteem!
Look on the Bright Side was so utterly wonderful! It brought out so many emotions! I laughed, I cried, I was ticked! By the end my heart soared with joy!
A copy was kindly provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2024
I am such a fan of this author. Her storytelling tugs at your heart and gives all the feels. If you read "A Little Ray of Sunshine", you will love this story and you'll recognize many of the characters, too. This is also a standalone story.
Lark is an Oncology Resident and has been informed that she will be working in the ER because she is too emotional. She wants to change a be a better doctor and believes her time in the ER will be for a short time. However, the top surgeon in the hospital (and everywhere else according to him) Lorenzo Santini, learns that Lark has been transferred and sees an opportunity to ask her for a "favor". Lorenzo has a reputation in the hospital, he is arrogant, obnoxious and rude. He also needs a date for three months as his sister is getting married and he wants to assure his 99-year-old grandmother (who is as cantankerous as Lorenzo) that he will be okay. According to Lorenzo, she is in hospice care, and he wants her to go peacefully with the knowledge that he will live a full life. Lorenzo's nickname at the hospital is "Dr. Satan" and the banter throughout the story highlights his personality. But Lark is not a pushover, and she gives as much as she gets. If Lark agrees, Lorenzo will introduce her to Oncologists that can possibly get her back to where she belongs. Lark shares with her family that she has a fake boyfriend and what her motivation is. She meets Lorenzo's family and cannot believe how likeable they are. She wants a relationship with all of them because they are wonderful, especially his brother Dante.
As she spends more time with Lorenzo's family, she soon realizes how she knows Dante and it brings back some difficult memories that she thought were behind her. She is forced to deal with some unfinished business, and it is painful, but Lark is a strong woman and she is determined to get her life back.
This was a wonderful story that I could not put down. These characters were so engaging and there were other stories intertwined with Lark's story. I did not want this to end and I'm hoping this author can find more to tell with these characters.
Lark is an Oncology Resident and has been informed that she will be working in the ER because she is too emotional. She wants to change a be a better doctor and believes her time in the ER will be for a short time. However, the top surgeon in the hospital (and everywhere else according to him) Lorenzo Santini, learns that Lark has been transferred and sees an opportunity to ask her for a "favor". Lorenzo has a reputation in the hospital, he is arrogant, obnoxious and rude. He also needs a date for three months as his sister is getting married and he wants to assure his 99-year-old grandmother (who is as cantankerous as Lorenzo) that he will be okay. According to Lorenzo, she is in hospice care, and he wants her to go peacefully with the knowledge that he will live a full life. Lorenzo's nickname at the hospital is "Dr. Satan" and the banter throughout the story highlights his personality. But Lark is not a pushover, and she gives as much as she gets. If Lark agrees, Lorenzo will introduce her to Oncologists that can possibly get her back to where she belongs. Lark shares with her family that she has a fake boyfriend and what her motivation is. She meets Lorenzo's family and cannot believe how likeable they are. She wants a relationship with all of them because they are wonderful, especially his brother Dante.
As she spends more time with Lorenzo's family, she soon realizes how she knows Dante and it brings back some difficult memories that she thought were behind her. She is forced to deal with some unfinished business, and it is painful, but Lark is a strong woman and she is determined to get her life back.
This was a wonderful story that I could not put down. These characters were so engaging and there were other stories intertwined with Lark's story. I did not want this to end and I'm hoping this author can find more to tell with these characters.
March 28, 2024
I adore Kristan Higgans books but this was not my favorite. It was only just ok for me. I think that was mostly because of the other storylines thrown in, that had way too much background given, and were not ultimately very important. If the story had stayed with Lark it would’ve been stronger. As it was, even Larks story had too much backstory given for my interest.
April 12, 2025
I always enjoy Kristan Higgins writing. This one was good but a little busy with the side characters’ lives.
June 6, 2024
3.75 stars
August 2, 2024
Content warnings:
Whew! Look on the Bright Side was a surprisingly emotional and touching read from the always reliable, Kristan Higgins.
I'll admit, I'm a dedicated romance reader, but I think to mix it up every now and then with some women's fiction. This book is a mash-up between the two, heavy on the self-discovery and light on the romance. There are also multiple narrators, which took some getting used to.
I kind of like that this book took me to some unexpected places. As a romance reader, you kind of have an inkling as to where the story might take you, but this author kept me on my toes. I found the romance parts to be less impactful than I was hoping, but the flashbacks and the side characters were WAY more impactful. The story made me actually sob at times. It reminded me as to why I went into dentistry when I originally was going to be a physician: sickness and death are freaking horrifically sad.
The setting was also pretty magical to me. I'm writing this review on my way to the Cape (we go to Nantucket every summer), so the setting really hit home for me. I could picture every single aspect of the story.
I couldn't put this one down (even when I wanted to, at times). Heed the content warnings, and be prepared to be wow-ed by this one.
*~*Follow me on instagram for more reviews, book talk, and deals posts*~*
Whew! Look on the Bright Side was a surprisingly emotional and touching read from the always reliable, Kristan Higgins.
I'll admit, I'm a dedicated romance reader, but I think to mix it up every now and then with some women's fiction. This book is a mash-up between the two, heavy on the self-discovery and light on the romance. There are also multiple narrators, which took some getting used to.
I kind of like that this book took me to some unexpected places. As a romance reader, you kind of have an inkling as to where the story might take you, but this author kept me on my toes. I found the romance parts to be less impactful than I was hoping, but the flashbacks and the side characters were WAY more impactful. The story made me actually sob at times. It reminded me as to why I went into dentistry when I originally was going to be a physician: sickness and death are freaking horrifically sad.
The setting was also pretty magical to me. I'm writing this review on my way to the Cape (we go to Nantucket every summer), so the setting really hit home for me. I could picture every single aspect of the story.
I couldn't put this one down (even when I wanted to, at times). Heed the content warnings, and be prepared to be wow-ed by this one.
*~*Follow me on instagram for more reviews, book talk, and deals posts*~*
June 24, 2024
An enjoyable read. Beautiful setting, on the 'Cape' - would love to visit.
There could nearly be a Book 2 in this series, to catch up with other characters ...
I applaud all doctors and nurses (especially the nurses for having to put up with the egos of 'some' doctors).
Great secondary characters and storyline.
'Three' weeks to read a book - oh, how times have changed!
There could nearly be a Book 2 in this series, to catch up with other characters ...
I applaud all doctors and nurses (especially the nurses for having to put up with the egos of 'some' doctors).
Great secondary characters and storyline.
'Three' weeks to read a book - oh, how times have changed!
June 1, 2024
Well, HELLO awesome book!
Kristan Higgins just keeps getting better (and that saying something.). She’s always been such a warm & cozy writer. This one shines. ✨
(And a big shout out to her narrator, Xe Sans, who consistently brings such life her characters!)
Kristan Higgins just keeps getting better (and that saying something.). She’s always been such a warm & cozy writer. This one shines. ✨
(And a big shout out to her narrator, Xe Sans, who consistently brings such life her characters!)
September 19, 2025
3 Stars for Look on the Bright Side (audiobook) by Kristan Higgins read by Susan Bennett, Christina Moore and Xe Sands.
The main story line was great but the other stories just got in the way. It’s frustrating to be ripped out of an interesting part and to be thrown into a story that just doesn’t seem to matter.
The main story line was great but the other stories just got in the way. It’s frustrating to be ripped out of an interesting part and to be thrown into a story that just doesn’t seem to matter.
April 22, 2024
I just adore the authors books, she never misses for me and her style of writing books that both lift you up and break your heart just really works for me. I was pleasantly surprised to see some characters from A Little Ray of Sunshine and if you’ve read that one too, I’m sure you’ll be just as delighted as I was. If you haven’t read it yet, you should! Especially if you like messy families with larger than life characters and just wonderful storytelling. But I digress, I immediately connected with Lark, she’s a tender hearted little angel who I felt protective of, I seriously wanted to tuck her into bed with some tea and a good book after learning more about her backstory. That’s the thing about this author, (and this book) is that one minute you’re laughing at some witty dialogue and the next I’m crying and didn’t even realize it. The characters here are larger than life, they leapt off the page and right into my heart. I know that’s cheesy but it’s true! Besides Lark you hear from her mom, Ellie and her landlady, Joy in alternating chapters and I just adored all three of these women. Each was struggling individually with some aspect of their life and the way they helped and supported each other was everything. Per usual this is one of the best books I’ve read this year, an emotional read with characters I won’t forget and a story that was heartfelt and beautiful.
June 13, 2024
Ugh. I did finish it but I had to listen to second half on double-speed.
Switches between three characters again. Don’t care for the mom and joy plots.
Cover is misleading again. Not a light-hearted beach summer read. It features lots of death, including a death scene, lots of grief. Crush between Lark and Dante seems contrite and forced. Hardly any interaction between them and just because he was the firefighter to drive her to
Hospital she suddenly loves him?
Skip this!
Higgins please go back to writing funny rom-com!
Switches between three characters again. Don’t care for the mom and joy plots.
Cover is misleading again. Not a light-hearted beach summer read. It features lots of death, including a death scene, lots of grief. Crush between Lark and Dante seems contrite and forced. Hardly any interaction between them and just because he was the firefighter to drive her to
Hospital she suddenly loves him?
Skip this!
Higgins please go back to writing funny rom-com!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2025
4.5 amazing stars!
I go way, way too long in between reading Kristan Higgins books. I always forgot how amazing her books are until I'm reading one. I have got to put her in my more regular reading rotation!
"Look on the Bright Side" was WAY more emotional than I expected it to be. Death and grief definitely play huge roles in this book, so if you're not in a headspace for that I would recommend not picking this one up until you are. It has a happy ending and it's very tender, lovely, and hopeful, but there are some chapters that were gut wrenching and heartbreaking. Tears were shed for sure.
I loved the character of Lark and related to her so much. She was a great main character, and her development was well done. She was very sweet and likeable, as were so many of the other characters in this book. Even the "fake boyfriend" who was an arrogant surgeon, almost a caricature, was hilarious and likeable in his own way. I loved the array of personalities in this book.
The only reason I am not giving this five stars is that I felt the other story that involved Lark's mom, Ellie, and her landlady, Joy, was... Well, entirely irrelevant. I know that three person POV is Kristan Higgins's jam, but it was unnecessary in this book. All of the chapters with Ellie and Joy felt like filler. And they were maybe 25% of the total book? I kept waiting for it to make sense that they were getting their own chapters and storyline, but it never connected. I would have liked if they got their own novel and expanded on their characters, though! It just made no sense in this book for me.
Overall, a truly wonderful book I could not put down! It's been a long time since I read a 400+ page book in less than 4 days. Loved it.
I go way, way too long in between reading Kristan Higgins books. I always forgot how amazing her books are until I'm reading one. I have got to put her in my more regular reading rotation!
"Look on the Bright Side" was WAY more emotional than I expected it to be. Death and grief definitely play huge roles in this book, so if you're not in a headspace for that I would recommend not picking this one up until you are. It has a happy ending and it's very tender, lovely, and hopeful, but there are some chapters that were gut wrenching and heartbreaking. Tears were shed for sure.
I loved the character of Lark and related to her so much. She was a great main character, and her development was well done. She was very sweet and likeable, as were so many of the other characters in this book. Even the "fake boyfriend" who was an arrogant surgeon, almost a caricature, was hilarious and likeable in his own way. I loved the array of personalities in this book.
The only reason I am not giving this five stars is that I felt the other story that involved Lark's mom, Ellie, and her landlady, Joy, was... Well, entirely irrelevant. I know that three person POV is Kristan Higgins's jam, but it was unnecessary in this book. All of the chapters with Ellie and Joy felt like filler. And they were maybe 25% of the total book? I kept waiting for it to make sense that they were getting their own chapters and storyline, but it never connected. I would have liked if they got their own novel and expanded on their characters, though! It just made no sense in this book for me.
Overall, a truly wonderful book I could not put down! It's been a long time since I read a 400+ page book in less than 4 days. Loved it.
October 21, 2024
It has been awhile since I have read anything by this author. My thoughts are similar to my GR friend, Mela: “I recommend never reading a blurb for her books, just pick one and read.”
Ms. Higgins’ romances have plenty of family drama interspersed between the romance once it starts. I often have to pause for thought, wondering if I was a thirty-something, would this be how I would act? Of course, there is at least one animal to support our heroine of the day.
I liked Lark’s character; she was very human. Dr S? He grew on me. By the end. I wanted him to have an HEA.
Ms. Higgins’ romances have plenty of family drama interspersed between the romance once it starts. I often have to pause for thought, wondering if I was a thirty-something, would this be how I would act? Of course, there is at least one animal to support our heroine of the day.
I liked Lark’s character; she was very human. Dr S? He grew on me. By the end. I wanted him to have an HEA.
September 7, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒
Funny, life-affirming, and just lovely all around, this book explores the unplanned and unexpected that makes life worth living. Though Lark's story is the centerpiece here and arguably the most interesting, the novel follows three interconnected women at crossroads in their respective lives. Lots of reflective work goes on for all the women around central themes many people can relate to, including how to pick up the pieces after loss and sustaining a long-term relationship through ups and downs. The overriding message for all the stories is ultimately that life is unexpected and no matter your age, there are always possibilities for good things to come your way. It's hard not to love the idea that while change is inevitable, good things can happen anytime if you are open to them.
As a romance reader foremost, I was especially drawn to Lark's story, as she is the main character and the one with the most conventionally romantic arc. It does take quite a while though to get to the romance, and at times, I felt a bit bogged down in the tragedy she experienced when she lost her long-time love to cancer. We know Justin dies in the early chapters as we witness her picnicking at his grave site and constantly reminiscing over memories of their happy times together. Her personal loss spills over into her professional life in the first chapters too since she struggles in her role as an oncology resident after med school. She doesn't have the professional objectivity needed for this job and is subsequently booted out and sent over to work as an ER physician.
Thankfully, the book sends us Lorenzo as a much-needed reprieve from the depression threatening to settle over Lark's story. Lorenzo, aka Dr. Satan, is horrible; he lives up to his name as the brilliant but detestable superstar of Boston's medical world, but he is also one of those unexpected people who can come into a life and truly upend it in complicated ways. Lark reluctantly agrees to provide cover for him as a date at a family event to persuade his dying granny that he has a potential partner in life. But it's the domino effect of how one thing can lead to another in life, and before Lark knows it, she is enmeshed with Lorenzo's big, sprawling, raucous family, including his younger and charismatic brother. I bought completely into the family dynamics, and Lark's attempts to pretend-date a well-known misanthrope is funny as we see everyone struggle to understand her attraction to him. Two brothers with a complicated history, one sad and lonely young woman trying to move forward with her life - their messy triangle was riveting reading.
The entire novel though is sprawling in the best of ways, and Lark, her mom Ellie, and her landlord Joy all have their own fully developed stories that draw you in and make the book come alive. I couldn't wait to read their stories every night. I did have some misgivings around the canonizing of Justin as this figure of perfect goodness. Given how complicated so many characters are here, Justin's depiction felt shallow. He tragically succumbs to cancer at a terribly young age, and therefore his life is unfairly cut short. But other than that, he isn't really allowed much character development, and I did think the novel spends far too much time on the lost love rather than the much more dynamic and engaging romantic life waiting for Lark as she negotiates a relationship with two charismatic brothers.
I really did not know how this book would end, but I can happily say that it does so magnificently and in fairness to all the characters here. One of my favorite books this year!
Funny, life-affirming, and just lovely all around, this book explores the unplanned and unexpected that makes life worth living. Though Lark's story is the centerpiece here and arguably the most interesting, the novel follows three interconnected women at crossroads in their respective lives. Lots of reflective work goes on for all the women around central themes many people can relate to, including how to pick up the pieces after loss and sustaining a long-term relationship through ups and downs. The overriding message for all the stories is ultimately that life is unexpected and no matter your age, there are always possibilities for good things to come your way. It's hard not to love the idea that while change is inevitable, good things can happen anytime if you are open to them.
As a romance reader foremost, I was especially drawn to Lark's story, as she is the main character and the one with the most conventionally romantic arc. It does take quite a while though to get to the romance, and at times, I felt a bit bogged down in the tragedy she experienced when she lost her long-time love to cancer. We know Justin dies in the early chapters as we witness her picnicking at his grave site and constantly reminiscing over memories of their happy times together. Her personal loss spills over into her professional life in the first chapters too since she struggles in her role as an oncology resident after med school. She doesn't have the professional objectivity needed for this job and is subsequently booted out and sent over to work as an ER physician.
Thankfully, the book sends us Lorenzo as a much-needed reprieve from the depression threatening to settle over Lark's story. Lorenzo, aka Dr. Satan, is horrible; he lives up to his name as the brilliant but detestable superstar of Boston's medical world, but he is also one of those unexpected people who can come into a life and truly upend it in complicated ways. Lark reluctantly agrees to provide cover for him as a date at a family event to persuade his dying granny that he has a potential partner in life. But it's the domino effect of how one thing can lead to another in life, and before Lark knows it, she is enmeshed with Lorenzo's big, sprawling, raucous family, including his younger and charismatic brother. I bought completely into the family dynamics, and Lark's attempts to pretend-date a well-known misanthrope is funny as we see everyone struggle to understand her attraction to him. Two brothers with a complicated history, one sad and lonely young woman trying to move forward with her life - their messy triangle was riveting reading.
The entire novel though is sprawling in the best of ways, and Lark, her mom Ellie, and her landlord Joy all have their own fully developed stories that draw you in and make the book come alive. I couldn't wait to read their stories every night. I did have some misgivings around the canonizing of Justin as this figure of perfect goodness. Given how complicated so many characters are here, Justin's depiction felt shallow. He tragically succumbs to cancer at a terribly young age, and therefore his life is unfairly cut short. But other than that, he isn't really allowed much character development, and I did think the novel spends far too much time on the lost love rather than the much more dynamic and engaging romantic life waiting for Lark as she negotiates a relationship with two charismatic brothers.
I really did not know how this book would end, but I can happily say that it does so magnificently and in fairness to all the characters here. One of my favorite books this year!
June 19, 2024
What a beautiful book! Look On The Bright Side is women’s fiction.
The main narrator is 33 year old oncology resident Lark. She is positive, sweet and so kind. I just adored getting to read her story. Something happened to her 7 years before. While the book is mostly told in the present we do get a few chapters from her past. Seeing what she went through was super sad, but very powerful.
There are also a few chapters from Ellie’s POV (Lark’s mom) and a few chapters from Joy’s POV (Lark’s landlady). While I might have preferred this to be only Lark’s story (I found her that fascinating), I actually really appreciated getting to see POVs of women in their 60s. Ellie and Joy both had hidden layers. And it was great to read their stories.
Lark has a big close family (including a twin sister). She agrees to do a favor for a grouchy colleague. And honestly this part of the story was fantastic. This book made me smile. But it also made me cry. What an absolutely heartbreaking yet wonderful story. I loved it.
The main narrator is 33 year old oncology resident Lark. She is positive, sweet and so kind. I just adored getting to read her story. Something happened to her 7 years before. While the book is mostly told in the present we do get a few chapters from her past. Seeing what she went through was super sad, but very powerful.
There are also a few chapters from Ellie’s POV (Lark’s mom) and a few chapters from Joy’s POV (Lark’s landlady). While I might have preferred this to be only Lark’s story (I found her that fascinating), I actually really appreciated getting to see POVs of women in their 60s. Ellie and Joy both had hidden layers. And it was great to read their stories.
Lark has a big close family (including a twin sister). She agrees to do a favor for a grouchy colleague. And honestly this part of the story was fantastic. This book made me smile. But it also made me cry. What an absolutely heartbreaking yet wonderful story. I loved it.
May 23, 2024
3.5⭐ This was a bit more emotional than I was expecting, but an enjoyable summer read.
This one deals with grief, forgiveness,and second chances. Lark has been transferred out of the oncology department after losing a patient and getting too emotional. Now, Dr. Santini (aka. Dr. Satan) says he can get her back in oncology if she would pretend to be his girlfriend for his sister's summer wedding because his grandma on hospice really wants to see him settled down. She agrees. While there, she really falls for his loving family….and his brother. Larks parents are also recently separated and you'll read about the new friendship her mother finds with Larks new landlady.
Overall, just a nice book to throw in your beach bag. Gives you plenty of summer vibes
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This one deals with grief, forgiveness,and second chances. Lark has been transferred out of the oncology department after losing a patient and getting too emotional. Now, Dr. Santini (aka. Dr. Satan) says he can get her back in oncology if she would pretend to be his girlfriend for his sister's summer wedding because his grandma on hospice really wants to see him settled down. She agrees. While there, she really falls for his loving family….and his brother. Larks parents are also recently separated and you'll read about the new friendship her mother finds with Larks new landlady.
Overall, just a nice book to throw in your beach bag. Gives you plenty of summer vibes
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
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May 14, 2024Ugh… this was painful DNF. I could not get into this book. And WHY long ass chapters to introduce main characters. This was sad. I wanted to love it.
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