Look on the Bright Side, a review by Sherry

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Look on the Bright Side
Kristan Higgins

432 pages/11 hours 45 minutes
Berkley Romance/RB Media
Published May 28, 2024

Amazon | Goodreads

OK wow, this is listed as a romance, but that is the least of what it is. It balances a slow unraveling of a very heartfelt story with a little humor and a finding your place in the world. Lark has had a lot to live through but that remains a little bit of mystery as her past isn’t evident from the start. The book intertwines Lark’s past and present along with the present of her mother, Ellie, and her landlord, Joy. Three women living through life changing times and working on coming out stronger.

While there are three ladies at the center of this one, Lark’s story takes center stage more so than the other two. Having completed her medical degree, she is working towards her dream of becoming an oncologist when life throws her a curve ball. It took me a little while to connect with Lark, but as her backstory was revealed, I realized how strong and courageous she really was. I was surprised at how heavy the story was at times. I even cried at one point, but was rooting for Lark and her overcoming her demons.

I won’t spoil any of the surprises of the story, but this reminded me a little of one of my favorite 80s/90s rom coms.

Susan Bennett, Xe Sands, and Christina Moore bring the joy and the sorrows of Lark, Ellie and Joy to life. Each narrator fit with their character and successfully brought emotion and depth to the story.

Thanks @BerkleyRomance and @RBMedia for my #gifted reading and listening copies.  #BerkleyPartner #Berkley


About the book

Lark Smith was planning a fairy-tale wedding to her high school sweetheart when, in the blink of an eye, everything she dreamed of was suddenly gone. That day, Lark decided the best way to deal with loss was to prevent others from ever having to. Five years later, her goal of becoming a doctor—the best doctor—is just within reach when, without warning, she’s fired.

Now getting back on track means making a deal with the devil. Well, not exactly, even if they do call renowned surgeon Lorenzo Santini “Dr. Satan” behind his back. He’ll use his influence to get her back in the program. But first, Lark has to pose as his significant other all summer…his sister is getting married, and he doesn’t want his ninety-nine-year-old grandmother spending her precious time worrying over his single state. What Lark doesn’t realize is she’s already met Lorenzo’s brother Dante, the firefighter who was there on Lark’s worst day. The brothers couldn’t be more different…which is becoming a problem, because the last thing Lark wants is to fall in love again.

While spinning white lies during one unforgettable Cape Cod summer, Lark is exposed to the truth: when life throws you in the dark, love, friends, and family are there to help you look on the bright side.

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