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The journey that began in top-rated, best-selling Bright Side, continues ...
This is the story of Gus.
Losing himself.
Finding himself.
And healing along the way.
“ … but the honest-to-God truth is I don’t even know how to function anymore. Bright Side wasn’t only my best friend; she was like my other half ... the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humor, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart. How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
This is the story of Gus.
Losing himself.
Finding himself.
And healing along the way.
“ … but the honest-to-God truth is I don’t even know how to function anymore. Bright Side wasn’t only my best friend; she was like my other half ... the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humor, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart. How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
389 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2015
About the author
Kim Holden
6 books4,453 followersSome 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 Manchester Orchestra). 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,334 reviews
September 6, 2015
5 EPIC stars
Kim Holden knows how to hit you right in the feels with her stories. Every single time. I really thought I would be okay reading Gus. That there would be no tears… boy was I wrong. My emotions were working overtime while reading this, as were my tear ducts. I will say, however, that by the end, I had such a big smile on my face and my heart was filled with so much happiness, that the tears were more than worth it.
Aside from Kate, Gus was my favorite character in Bright Side. Something about this dude just made me smile. He was such a great friend to Kate and an awesome person. But Gus without Kate… he’s just not the same Gus anymore. He doesn’t feel the same.
Scout is a girl who comes into Gus’s life just at the right time. They are a very unlikely pair and Scout is standoffish at first. Scout and Gus end up spending a lot of time together. Gus starts to heal, to be more of himself again. Scout see’s that. At first, she wasn’t crazy about the guy. Now she see’s this fun and beautiful person he really is.
I really feel like certain people come into you life for a reason. Scout and Gus came into each others life to help heal one another. They both needed each other equally. I loved these two together. I loved that Scout never was jealous about his love for his Bright Side. She and Gus were fantastic.
Any talk of Kate… I just couldn’t handle my emotions. She is one of those characters I’ll never forget. Gus was her very best friend and she loved him so much. I’m so glad he got the happy he deserved. I loved seeing all the characters from Bright Side make their appearances throughout this story. And it couldn’t have ended in a more perfect way!
Kim Holden writes the most beautiful, emotional and heart-wrenching stories. Her characters are so lovable and even though her books always make me cry, they also make me smile big time. They make me want to live my life to the fullest, to Do Epic every day. And that is why I love these books so much. If you haven’t read them, you’re really missing out!
Kim Holden knows how to hit you right in the feels with her stories. Every single time. I really thought I would be okay reading Gus. That there would be no tears… boy was I wrong. My emotions were working overtime while reading this, as were my tear ducts. I will say, however, that by the end, I had such a big smile on my face and my heart was filled with so much happiness, that the tears were more than worth it.
Aside from Kate, Gus was my favorite character in Bright Side. Something about this dude just made me smile. He was such a great friend to Kate and an awesome person. But Gus without Kate… he’s just not the same Gus anymore. He doesn’t feel the same.
“I don’t know how to be Gus without her, dude. I’m fucking lost as shit.”Being on tour isn’t the same. Making music isn’t the same. Nothing is the same.
Scout is a girl who comes into Gus’s life just at the right time. They are a very unlikely pair and Scout is standoffish at first. Scout and Gus end up spending a lot of time together. Gus starts to heal, to be more of himself again. Scout see’s that. At first, she wasn’t crazy about the guy. Now she see’s this fun and beautiful person he really is.
When someone initiates kindness anonymously, you know it comes from the most pure, kind-hearted part of them because they’ll probably never be singled out and thanked. It speaks to his character.
I really feel like certain people come into you life for a reason. Scout and Gus came into each others life to help heal one another. They both needed each other equally. I loved these two together. I loved that Scout never was jealous about his love for his Bright Side. She and Gus were fantastic.
Any talk of Kate… I just couldn’t handle my emotions. She is one of those characters I’ll never forget. Gus was her very best friend and she loved him so much. I’m so glad he got the happy he deserved. I loved seeing all the characters from Bright Side make their appearances throughout this story. And it couldn’t have ended in a more perfect way!
Kim Holden writes the most beautiful, emotional and heart-wrenching stories. Her characters are so lovable and even though her books always make me cry, they also make me smile big time. They make me want to live my life to the fullest, to Do Epic every day. And that is why I love these books so much. If you haven’t read them, you’re really missing out!
October 19, 2015
Love isn’t a one-way journey.
Everyone likes to read about the beginning of love, the swift beautiful descent into the butterflies. We all love the meet-cute, the café flirtations, the ensuing weeks when two characters sink into love and are swept away on a road towards their inevitable white taffeta destiny. But nobody wants to talk about the wreckage, the after effects, the sorrow that can linger after love leaves. And any form of love can leave, not just romantic love. Sometimes the loss of a friend can ache just as sweetly, and hurt just as beautifully, as romantic love being yanked away by fate. Sometimes you have to push your way back out of the remnants of love, and that is where Kim Holden’s Gus comes in. Because sometimes when it all falls away and the one your heart beats for isn’t there anymore, getting yourself back into the sun can feel like pushing a boulder up a cliff. And that story isn’t for everyone. Some people want to soar up over the jagged edges of life and stay safe from heartbreak, which is totally understandable. This world is hard enough for some people. But for those who are willing to take the journey, to cry and sweat and bleed beside a good character and then be put back together and be reminded, ultimately, of what makes us alive, Gus is the perfect book for you.
And hey: it’s also really fun! It’s got rock stars and romance and European travel and California cool and plenty of sexy times, and love, present tense! But it’s also about life and death and all the love that can bloom in between. Running under all this fun stuff, holding it all together and making the words jump off the page with crackling electric verve, is heart. Feeling. Emotion. The stuff we live for. The stuff that bubbles up from deep down. Stuff like joy and heartbreak and ecstasy and fear and all the other wild beautiful things that make us human.
“I get to live this, for how long I have no idea, but I’m going to live and love the hell out of it.”
In the words of Gus himself, this is all we are ensured: this moment, right now. Live and love and savor it. After all, you never know when the love will leave and you’ll have to start pushing that boulder up that cliff all over again. Enjoy the fall - God and Kim Holden know it's all we're ever really promised in this world, anyway.
Another epic book, Kim. I will never look at a Post-It note the same again. I can't wait to see what you do next.
Everyone likes to read about the beginning of love, the swift beautiful descent into the butterflies. We all love the meet-cute, the café flirtations, the ensuing weeks when two characters sink into love and are swept away on a road towards their inevitable white taffeta destiny. But nobody wants to talk about the wreckage, the after effects, the sorrow that can linger after love leaves. And any form of love can leave, not just romantic love. Sometimes the loss of a friend can ache just as sweetly, and hurt just as beautifully, as romantic love being yanked away by fate. Sometimes you have to push your way back out of the remnants of love, and that is where Kim Holden’s Gus comes in. Because sometimes when it all falls away and the one your heart beats for isn’t there anymore, getting yourself back into the sun can feel like pushing a boulder up a cliff. And that story isn’t for everyone. Some people want to soar up over the jagged edges of life and stay safe from heartbreak, which is totally understandable. This world is hard enough for some people. But for those who are willing to take the journey, to cry and sweat and bleed beside a good character and then be put back together and be reminded, ultimately, of what makes us alive, Gus is the perfect book for you.
And hey: it’s also really fun! It’s got rock stars and romance and European travel and California cool and plenty of sexy times, and love, present tense! But it’s also about life and death and all the love that can bloom in between. Running under all this fun stuff, holding it all together and making the words jump off the page with crackling electric verve, is heart. Feeling. Emotion. The stuff we live for. The stuff that bubbles up from deep down. Stuff like joy and heartbreak and ecstasy and fear and all the other wild beautiful things that make us human.
“I get to live this, for how long I have no idea, but I’m going to live and love the hell out of it.”
In the words of Gus himself, this is all we are ensured: this moment, right now. Live and love and savor it. After all, you never know when the love will leave and you’ll have to start pushing that boulder up that cliff all over again. Enjoy the fall - God and Kim Holden know it's all we're ever really promised in this world, anyway.
Another epic book, Kim. I will never look at a Post-It note the same again. I can't wait to see what you do next.
January 9, 2016
Bright Side wasn't only my best friend; she was like my other half... the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humor, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart. How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?
When I opened Bright Side I had no clue what was in store. I went in blind and came out shining.
When I opened Gus I knew what was coming. I knew Kim would give me heart and soul. Even though I knew Gus would break my heart, I knew the path in front of him would gut me. I knew my emotions would be on my sleeve.
After Bright Side I undoubtedly knew one thing, Gus would be EPIC.
It was.
He was.
It so was.
The sweet and sorrowful journey of deep pain and sadness, the yearning for what's on the other side. The want to be "that" Gus again. Gus was a favorite character in my favorite Bright orange book. He was lost and broken. Just as we all suspected. Just as we all were. The mountainous hill Gus traveled in the beginning was where I felt the most melancholy. His choices paved a grim road. He wasn’t himself. He wasn’t our Gus. Her Gus. He was just there. I had to bite my tongue and hope he would see his other side.
Yeah, in another month, I'll still be in this sinking ship. It's going down fast. I feel sorry for the rest of them because this sonofabitch doesn't even have life preservers.
Alone. I think that's what bothers me most about losing Bright Side. With her I was never alone. Even when she lived hundreds of miles away, I was never alone.
The awesome way Kim writes day to day really puts the reader in the hell Gus is in. The mourning. The sorrow. The bad choices. The conflict. Then someone so NOT wanted is in the picture and I can’t tell you how relieved I was so see a pea size piece of light. Gah, I don’t even know what to say exactly about this character because it isn’t fair to YOU to spoil it. But I loved the LONG growth these two characters traveled. There wasn’t any quick perfection here. It was work. It was hard. But it was beautiful to watch. The gain both received is well worth the enormous amount of pain they had to hurdle over. They strengthen in a very unorthodox way but for them it’s what needed to happen. Mentally these two bonded over old fashion friendship. Which enhanced my fall for them.
I haven't written like that since Bright Side was around. I always feel her in my heart these days, because that's where she lives. I walk around with her inside me every day. And it doesn't hurt anymore.
The presence I felt tonight wasn't internal. It was physical. Tangible. Like someone was in the room with me, feeding me. Little did I know, she was just on the other side of the door. Filling my soul.
Just as the title says Gus; this was certainly all about him, it was about Bright Side.
Katie.
God, so much Katie. Anytime she was mention or just thought about my throat closed up and my heart raced. We were able to get a glimpse into many characters we fell hard for. Two in particularly. I loved what we had but heavens above I could have had more. So much more.
"I miss Katie, Gus. And I'll always love her. Not a day goes by that I don't think about her. It's not pain; it's joy. I'm living my life for her. I have no intention of wasting it."
Final thoughts: You won’t be disappointed. You will feel and break. That’s guaranteed. But come the end you will have no disappointments. This was another EPIC book by one totally EPIC author.
When I opened Bright Side I had no clue what was in store. I went in blind and came out shining.
When I opened Gus I knew what was coming. I knew Kim would give me heart and soul. Even though I knew Gus would break my heart, I knew the path in front of him would gut me. I knew my emotions would be on my sleeve.
After Bright Side I undoubtedly knew one thing, Gus would be EPIC.
It was.
He was.
It so was.
The sweet and sorrowful journey of deep pain and sadness, the yearning for what's on the other side. The want to be "that" Gus again. Gus was a favorite character in my favorite Bright orange book. He was lost and broken. Just as we all suspected. Just as we all were. The mountainous hill Gus traveled in the beginning was where I felt the most melancholy. His choices paved a grim road. He wasn’t himself. He wasn’t our Gus. Her Gus. He was just there. I had to bite my tongue and hope he would see his other side.
Yeah, in another month, I'll still be in this sinking ship. It's going down fast. I feel sorry for the rest of them because this sonofabitch doesn't even have life preservers.
Alone. I think that's what bothers me most about losing Bright Side. With her I was never alone. Even when she lived hundreds of miles away, I was never alone.
The awesome way Kim writes day to day really puts the reader in the hell Gus is in. The mourning. The sorrow. The bad choices. The conflict. Then someone so NOT wanted is in the picture and I can’t tell you how relieved I was so see a pea size piece of light. Gah, I don’t even know what to say exactly about this character because it isn’t fair to YOU to spoil it. But I loved the LONG growth these two characters traveled. There wasn’t any quick perfection here. It was work. It was hard. But it was beautiful to watch. The gain both received is well worth the enormous amount of pain they had to hurdle over. They strengthen in a very unorthodox way but for them it’s what needed to happen. Mentally these two bonded over old fashion friendship. Which enhanced my fall for them.
I haven't written like that since Bright Side was around. I always feel her in my heart these days, because that's where she lives. I walk around with her inside me every day. And it doesn't hurt anymore.
The presence I felt tonight wasn't internal. It was physical. Tangible. Like someone was in the room with me, feeding me. Little did I know, she was just on the other side of the door. Filling my soul.
Just as the title says Gus; this was certainly all about him, it was about Bright Side.
Katie.
God, so much Katie. Anytime she was mention or just thought about my throat closed up and my heart raced. We were able to get a glimpse into many characters we fell hard for. Two in particularly. I loved what we had but heavens above I could have had more. So much more.
"I miss Katie, Gus. And I'll always love her. Not a day goes by that I don't think about her. It's not pain; it's joy. I'm living my life for her. I have no intention of wasting it."
Final thoughts: You won’t be disappointed. You will feel and break. That’s guaranteed. But come the end you will have no disappointments. This was another EPIC book by one totally EPIC author.
May 26, 2015
4.5 Stars
”Bright Side wasn’t only my best friend; she was like my other half… the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humor, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart. How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
Kim Holden delivered a sequel that for me was much more creative and less predictable than it’s predecessor. To be honest, I was in moderate like with the first book but in this book I FELT Kate’s importance in Gus’ life, in his heart and in his soul. Gus is lost without Bright Side just broken and and he stumbling along his band’s tour dates under a haze of woman and alcohol.
“Alone. I think that's what bothers me most about losing Bright Side. With her I was never alone. Even when she lived hundreds of miles away, I was never alone.”
Scout MacKenzie is hired to join the tour and her and Gus maintain a barely there friendship but Gus sets his mother up with a new assistant and so when the tour is over Scout ends up working for Gus’ wonderful mother, Audrey.
Scout and Gus’ love story itself is very slow paced (no instant love however I wanted some sparks and more butterfly moments than the slow burn- thus not a full 5 Star) but their relationship did progress realistically and not in an aggravating way. Scout’s prior relationship and past play a part in her “Impatient” and shy persona.
”People I love don’t know how to love me back. They hurt me. That’s how they love. That’s how they love.”
The story catches a reader up with all the cast of the first book including Keller and sweet little Stella. I found that although Kate wasn’t in this book she was in each and every page in such a lovely profound way. The author truly did a wonderful job writing this story it had heart, originality and hope.
”My heart is big enough for both of them. Bright Side helped make me the man I am, and Scout helped me remember who that man was, helping me become my own person.”
”Bright Side wasn’t only my best friend; she was like my other half… the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humor, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart. How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
Kim Holden delivered a sequel that for me was much more creative and less predictable than it’s predecessor. To be honest, I was in moderate like with the first book but in this book I FELT Kate’s importance in Gus’ life, in his heart and in his soul. Gus is lost without Bright Side just broken and and he stumbling along his band’s tour dates under a haze of woman and alcohol.
“Alone. I think that's what bothers me most about losing Bright Side. With her I was never alone. Even when she lived hundreds of miles away, I was never alone.”
Scout MacKenzie is hired to join the tour and her and Gus maintain a barely there friendship but Gus sets his mother up with a new assistant and so when the tour is over Scout ends up working for Gus’ wonderful mother, Audrey.
Scout and Gus’ love story itself is very slow paced (no instant love however I wanted some sparks and more butterfly moments than the slow burn- thus not a full 5 Star) but their relationship did progress realistically and not in an aggravating way. Scout’s prior relationship and past play a part in her “Impatient” and shy persona.
”People I love don’t know how to love me back. They hurt me. That’s how they love. That’s how they love.”
The story catches a reader up with all the cast of the first book including Keller and sweet little Stella. I found that although Kate wasn’t in this book she was in each and every page in such a lovely profound way. The author truly did a wonderful job writing this story it had heart, originality and hope.
”My heart is big enough for both of them. Bright Side helped make me the man I am, and Scout helped me remember who that man was, helping me become my own person.”
July 21, 2016
4.5 stars
“How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
***Warning, there will be spoilers in this review for those of you who haven't read Bright Side yet, so only read on if you have read Bright Side or are fine with spoilers. I warned you!!!***
Gus was a book I was hesitant to read as Bright Side shattered my heart. I HATE unrequited love and I cried so hard for Gus at the end of that book for being in love with a girl who he didn't get a chance at forever with. So this book begins with Gus as an absolute wreck at the beginning. He's on tour just after Kate's death and he's not handling it well at all. Losing himself in drinking, drugs and women he can barely function as a normal person throughout the day. It's on this tour where Gus meets Scout, the personal assistant hired by his asshole boss. Scout is not impressed with Gus and his behavior, and she also doesn't know why he's acting this way so she sees him as a stereotypical rock star. Gus sees Scout as uptight, and even calls her Impatient because she's barely patient with him.
“Some people wear their scars on the outside. Others wear them on the inside. Same difference. Your character, your heart, your essence, that’s what’s important, because that’s the real you. All the rest, our looks, the material stuff? It's just meaningless bullshit.”
As the tour continues, the two strike up a tentative friendship but nothing more. Gus's mom needs a new PA and Gus manages to get Scout the job. When he returns from the tour he discovers his mother let Scout stay with them in her house until she's saved up enough for her own place. Scout begins to see that Gus is actually a really great guy, that he was just going through something horrible at the time. Slowly Gus begins to live life without Bright Side haunting him.
While this book brought tears to my eyes, it was a hell of a lot easier to read than Bright Side was. I still have a hard time with that book, mostly because I cannot stand unhappy endings. This book was Gus's redemption, his second life without his childhood sweetheart. Over time Gus was able to look back on Kate with happiness and not sadness. I loved the bromance between Gus and Keller; instead of resenting each other they chose to bond over their love of the same woman.
“You only get one chance at this circus called life. Don’t sit in the crowd watchin’ it happen. You jump right in and be the ringleader. That’s where you find your fire.”
I really liked Scout. She wasn't the polar opposite of Kate, but I appreciated that she wasn't the most positive person. Not that she was negative, she just saw life differently because of everything that happened to her. She hid so people wouldn't see her scars, physical and emotional ones. The weight of the world was on her shoulders but she didn't break, she just kept going and working hard.
I loved Scout and Gus together, the sticky notes scenes were among my favorites. The romance was a very slow burn and it worked for this book. No instalove, the two got to know each other before diving in. And it made it that much more special of a relationship when they did because it was something great that evolved into something even more wonderful.
I also want to mention what an amazing writer Kim Holden is. The entire book flowed so well, there wasn't any moments where I skimmed or thought was awkward plot wise. Gus was an easy going guy, and the writing style fit with him. Low angst for those of you angst allergic out there. I expected a little bit of drama of Scout being in Kate's shadow but that never happened and I'm glad, it would have never worked for the main characters if Scout didn't feel secure in her relationship with Gus. She knew Kate was a part of what made him who he was and she embraced that instead of fearing it.
So it was easier to rate this book than the first. I'm so happy Kim Holden decided to write this book and give us Gus. If you loved the first book or wanted closure, this is the book for you!
“I think people find each other when they’re ready for them. When they need each other the most. And it’s in that time of need that the strongest relationships are formed.”
“How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
***Warning, there will be spoilers in this review for those of you who haven't read Bright Side yet, so only read on if you have read Bright Side or are fine with spoilers. I warned you!!!***
Gus was a book I was hesitant to read as Bright Side shattered my heart. I HATE unrequited love and I cried so hard for Gus at the end of that book for being in love with a girl who he didn't get a chance at forever with. So this book begins with Gus as an absolute wreck at the beginning. He's on tour just after Kate's death and he's not handling it well at all. Losing himself in drinking, drugs and women he can barely function as a normal person throughout the day. It's on this tour where Gus meets Scout, the personal assistant hired by his asshole boss. Scout is not impressed with Gus and his behavior, and she also doesn't know why he's acting this way so she sees him as a stereotypical rock star. Gus sees Scout as uptight, and even calls her Impatient because she's barely patient with him.
“Some people wear their scars on the outside. Others wear them on the inside. Same difference. Your character, your heart, your essence, that’s what’s important, because that’s the real you. All the rest, our looks, the material stuff? It's just meaningless bullshit.”
As the tour continues, the two strike up a tentative friendship but nothing more. Gus's mom needs a new PA and Gus manages to get Scout the job. When he returns from the tour he discovers his mother let Scout stay with them in her house until she's saved up enough for her own place. Scout begins to see that Gus is actually a really great guy, that he was just going through something horrible at the time. Slowly Gus begins to live life without Bright Side haunting him.
While this book brought tears to my eyes, it was a hell of a lot easier to read than Bright Side was. I still have a hard time with that book, mostly because I cannot stand unhappy endings. This book was Gus's redemption, his second life without his childhood sweetheart. Over time Gus was able to look back on Kate with happiness and not sadness. I loved the bromance between Gus and Keller; instead of resenting each other they chose to bond over their love of the same woman.
“You only get one chance at this circus called life. Don’t sit in the crowd watchin’ it happen. You jump right in and be the ringleader. That’s where you find your fire.”
I really liked Scout. She wasn't the polar opposite of Kate, but I appreciated that she wasn't the most positive person. Not that she was negative, she just saw life differently because of everything that happened to her. She hid so people wouldn't see her scars, physical and emotional ones. The weight of the world was on her shoulders but she didn't break, she just kept going and working hard.
I loved Scout and Gus together, the sticky notes scenes were among my favorites. The romance was a very slow burn and it worked for this book. No instalove, the two got to know each other before diving in. And it made it that much more special of a relationship when they did because it was something great that evolved into something even more wonderful.
I also want to mention what an amazing writer Kim Holden is. The entire book flowed so well, there wasn't any moments where I skimmed or thought was awkward plot wise. Gus was an easy going guy, and the writing style fit with him. Low angst for those of you angst allergic out there. I expected a little bit of drama of Scout being in Kate's shadow but that never happened and I'm glad, it would have never worked for the main characters if Scout didn't feel secure in her relationship with Gus. She knew Kate was a part of what made him who he was and she embraced that instead of fearing it.
So it was easier to rate this book than the first. I'm so happy Kim Holden decided to write this book and give us Gus. If you loved the first book or wanted closure, this is the book for you!
“I think people find each other when they’re ready for them. When they need each other the most. And it’s in that time of need that the strongest relationships are formed.”
February 7, 2017
➦Good book! Unfortunately, just like with the first book in this series, I couldn't quite connect with the characters all the way. I loved Gus, the hero. I like the heroine. But I just never quite fell in love with them as a couple.
➦May be it was the whole "dead ex" thing. Ok, she wasn't his ex but he was deeply in love with her. Normally stuff like this wouldn't bother me but I felt like the bringing up of Bright Side was constant and kept taking away from the romance. At least for me... There was just... too much. I wanted to move on faster.
➦Speaking of faster. I am a fan of slow burn. But it has to be done in a way that doesn't make me want to fast forward through pages and pages. Descriptions of lives of secondary characters? Not a fan of. Like, I don't really care about how your friends who you see once a year are doing: where they work, what they plan to do in the future. This bear is running out of patience.
➦I did, for the most part, enjoy Gus' journey of healing and acceptance. I just wished he would throw a bone to the heroine once in a while. This slow burn was slow. Just when I think the tho main characters will be thrown in a situation where they will get some sharing to do (or at the very least spending time together) the story takes a detour somewhere. gurr T.T This one wasn't entirely for me.
September 12, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Type: Book 2 of 2 from Bright Side series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Gustov (Gus) Hawthorne took the loss of his best friend hard. He lost one thing that tethered him to the ground. Without it, he quickly spiraled down to self-destruction. As lead singer and guitarist of the now popular band Rook, he was supposed to be their leader, but his detachment forced the record label to have someone keep close eyes on the band.
Scout MacKenzie was necessary addition to Rook camp. As their PA, her job was to make sure everything went smooth. Other than that, she kept her distance and avoid unnecessary contact. But her kindness to Gus didn't go unnoticed and he was determined to break her shell while mending his own heart.
I absolutely love Gus in Bright Side. He was the best thing about that book and the reason why I kept putting this off for so long. I was afraid the possibility of not loving it.
Gus was epic in Bright Side. I could feel his heart and his passion on that one. Unfortunately I felt a lot less in his own book. I love seeing his struggles but it wasn't as intense as I wanted it to be. I wanted to see him goes from the depth of hell and soar up like a Phoenix. He did that, I just needed it to be on max level lol!
Scout or Impatient as Gus called her was a good match to Gus. Her reserved personality complemented his outgoing one. I like how they pushed each other to rise above their own issues.
This book is more of friendship than love story. The romance was slow burn which I don't mind but there were parts where the plot progressed was too slow pace for my liking. Also, it's inevitable that Kate overshadowed Scout.
Gus is a story of a man rediscovering himself and his passion for music and life after losing his heart. The slow burn romance would remind readers you could always come back after a fall.
Note 1:
When a book ends a certain way, I always prefer it to stay that way, because it is hard to find a sequel that is worthy of the original. But that's just me because I have a specific need when it comes to my reading lol! With that said, I don't regret reading this one and I will always love Bright Side Gus :D
Note 2:
They communicate using sticky notes, thus the sticky notes in my teasers lol!
Books in the series:
☘ ♢ ☘ . . . (F)BR With Mercedes . . . ☘ ♢ ☘
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
Type: Book 2 of 2 from Bright Side series
POV: First Person - Dual
Rating:
Gustov (Gus) Hawthorne took the loss of his best friend hard. He lost one thing that tethered him to the ground. Without it, he quickly spiraled down to self-destruction. As lead singer and guitarist of the now popular band Rook, he was supposed to be their leader, but his detachment forced the record label to have someone keep close eyes on the band.
Scout MacKenzie was necessary addition to Rook camp. As their PA, her job was to make sure everything went smooth. Other than that, she kept her distance and avoid unnecessary contact. But her kindness to Gus didn't go unnoticed and he was determined to break her shell while mending his own heart.
I absolutely love Gus in Bright Side. He was the best thing about that book and the reason why I kept putting this off for so long. I was afraid the possibility of not loving it.
And when he sings, I'm drowning. Drowning in the depths of the emotion pouring out of him.
Gus was epic in Bright Side. I could feel his heart and his passion on that one. Unfortunately I felt a lot less in his own book. I love seeing his struggles but it wasn't as intense as I wanted it to be. I wanted to see him goes from the depth of hell and soar up like a Phoenix. He did that, I just needed it to be on max level lol!
Scout or Impatient as Gus called her was a good match to Gus. Her reserved personality complemented his outgoing one. I like how they pushed each other to rise above their own issues.
Bright Side helped make me the man I am, and Scout helped me remember who that man was, helping me become my own person.
This book is more of friendship than love story. The romance was slow burn which I don't mind but there were parts where the plot progressed was too slow pace for my liking. Also, it's inevitable that Kate overshadowed Scout.
"I showed you a different side of me tonight. It's your turn."
Gus is a story of a man rediscovering himself and his passion for music and life after losing his heart. The slow burn romance would remind readers you could always come back after a fall.
Note 1:
When a book ends a certain way, I always prefer it to stay that way, because it is hard to find a sequel that is worthy of the original. But that's just me because I have a specific need when it comes to my reading lol! With that said, I don't regret reading this one and I will always love Bright Side Gus :D
Note 2:
They communicate using sticky notes, thus the sticky notes in my teasers lol!
Books in the series:
☘ ♢ ☘ . . . (F)BR With Mercedes . . . ☘ ♢ ☘
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 30, 2015
5+++++ Heal my Heart Stars
If any of you are worried to delve into this after Bright Side, I'll just say that this book gives us the happy feeling. It will give you everything and more, I'm telling you, I am very happy with how this book unfolded and ended for me its was the best way for Kim to help us readers to move on and ultimately again to question ourselves. To think and then to understand who Gus really is. It still has emotional moments but its not gut wrenching just happiness for me anyway. This book was heart warming had moments that included Kate and all that surrounded her but above all it's a story about family and friendship.
So What's it about
So if you've read Bright Side you know that . Hence the reckless way he is living life on the road AT ALL he's away from home and he's away from his Ma and is grieving over his other half The first 1/4 I would say is the hardest to read because Gus isn't his usually happy go lucky self, he's going down the path of self destruction which included booze, drugs and women. That's what his life pretty much entailed. Drowning his sorrows and Running away from his problems and those aspects just were there to stop him remembering about HER.
But then things change and he meets Scout she's there to be his 'Babysitter' because the band and organisers of the Tour can't handle him anymore . He gets someone to deal with him and everything that he needs, unlucky for both sides they both aren't greatly happy about the job.
Scout is a quiet nonsense kind of gal, she doesn't take shit from Gus , and at the same time doesn't get too involved with him. She has her own issues she's dealing with and needs this job opportunity so she is basically there to help but not to feel. Saying that Gus has a way to help her even if he doesn't want to, Scout at the beginning I would say is a buffer that helps Gus to breathe a little easier she's a deterrent in his darkness and that just helps him gradually to start to live again.
Even though they both don't want to be around each other greatly there were some funny moments. Things I enjoyed about this part was Gus's dry sense of humour and likewise how Scout mothered him to you know 'Have a shower' or when your clothes don't move It's time to wash them.... it's time
Over time they both start to see a different side to each other and that alone opens up there friendship, it helps them both breathe. It helps them to see how to live again. Then when the Tour ends Scout gets a position working with Gus's Ma and in that they both continue to see each other daily. Scout starts to see who Gus really is in the comfort of his home; the bubbly happy go lucky guy . he is the Gus who puts himself last in every obstacle and always one step ahead in being there for everyone around him, he's the Jedi of friendship you just can't help but fall for his character and who is resembles.
Kim deliver's another heart warming story that seeps into your pours and gradually see the family theme in this story. There are a few new characters to enjoy too....
Characters that make him start to believe in himself, characters where I would say bright Side put there for him on purpose.
Kim has a way with words that make you as a reader FEELIn the quiet moments I really did see what Kim was doing as I read his story, this wasn't just a romance but a book on new beginnings and life. Gus learned how to be himself again and even more so he learnt how to give freely to the people around him who needed him and who plainly just wanted him to be there and around them because his nature was just an all around existence of love.
I'm not going to say anything else other than this book is Deep, Hard, Intense, Emotional and then Loving, Honest, and Heart Warming. This is a book of LOVE and honest to God this book has all the FEELS people just need to give these characters a chance, I know some don't like NA reads for immaturity and the age limits of the characters but this book is about Family and living its a story about learning how to live, how to continue and how to move forward. But above all this book is Simplicity Kims books to talk to my heart in a way that speaks volumes, it touched me in ways I can't express but this book is an EXPERIENCE that everyone needs to try whatever age you are (Just my opinion though).
The Music
Again the music was apart of the story as much as the words were it was the life of the book so I'd highly recommend you listening some of these tracks as you read the book.
I Hope You Suffer ~ AFI
I Need My Girl ~ The National
Cope ~ Manchester Orchestra
Me ~ The 1975
Killing You ~ Broods
Figure It Out ~ Royal Blood
The Scientist ~ Coldplay
Homesick ~ Catfish and the Bottlemen
Baby Please Don't Leave me ~ Buddy Guy
Love Me Like You Used To ~ You Ask Me At Six
Giants ~ Bear Hands
All Around me ~ Flyleaf
Tiny Raindrop ~ Balance and Composure
Fall into the Party ~ Twin Atlantic
Kiss Me ~ Ed Sheeran
This book was written for the READERS so READ IT!!!!
That. Is. All.
For more Reviews and Blog Posts
If any of you are worried to delve into this after Bright Side, I'll just say that this book gives us the happy feeling. It will give you everything and more, I'm telling you, I am very happy with how this book unfolded and ended for me its was the best way for Kim to help us readers to move on and ultimately again to question ourselves. To think and then to understand who Gus really is. It still has emotional moments but its not gut wrenching just happiness for me anyway. This book was heart warming had moments that included Kate and all that surrounded her but above all it's a story about family and friendship.
So What's it about
So if you've read Bright Side you know that . Hence the reckless way he is living life on the road AT ALL he's away from home and he's away from his Ma and is grieving over his other half The first 1/4 I would say is the hardest to read because Gus isn't his usually happy go lucky self, he's going down the path of self destruction which included booze, drugs and women. That's what his life pretty much entailed. Drowning his sorrows and Running away from his problems and those aspects just were there to stop him remembering about HER.
But then things change and he meets Scout she's there to be his 'Babysitter' because the band and organisers of the Tour can't handle him anymore . He gets someone to deal with him and everything that he needs, unlucky for both sides they both aren't greatly happy about the job.
Scout is a quiet nonsense kind of gal, she doesn't take shit from Gus , and at the same time doesn't get too involved with him. She has her own issues she's dealing with and needs this job opportunity so she is basically there to help but not to feel. Saying that Gus has a way to help her even if he doesn't want to, Scout at the beginning I would say is a buffer that helps Gus to breathe a little easier she's a deterrent in his darkness and that just helps him gradually to start to live again.
Even though they both don't want to be around each other greatly there were some funny moments. Things I enjoyed about this part was Gus's dry sense of humour and likewise how Scout mothered him to you know 'Have a shower' or when your clothes don't move It's time to wash them.... it's time
Sometimes you meet people and you know the meeting wasn't chance. That they need you or you need them, sometimes both.
Over time they both start to see a different side to each other and that alone opens up there friendship, it helps them both breathe. It helps them to see how to live again. Then when the Tour ends Scout gets a position working with Gus's Ma and in that they both continue to see each other daily. Scout starts to see who Gus really is in the comfort of his home; the bubbly happy go lucky guy . he is the Gus who puts himself last in every obstacle and always one step ahead in being there for everyone around him, he's the Jedi of friendship you just can't help but fall for his character and who is resembles.
Kim deliver's another heart warming story that seeps into your pours and gradually see the family theme in this story. There are a few new characters to enjoy too....
Characters that make him start to believe in himself, characters where I would say bright Side put there for him on purpose.
Kim has a way with words that make you as a reader FEELIn the quiet moments I really did see what Kim was doing as I read his story, this wasn't just a romance but a book on new beginnings and life. Gus learned how to be himself again and even more so he learnt how to give freely to the people around him who needed him and who plainly just wanted him to be there and around them because his nature was just an all around existence of love.
I'm not going to say anything else other than this book is Deep, Hard, Intense, Emotional and then Loving, Honest, and Heart Warming. This is a book of LOVE and honest to God this book has all the FEELS people just need to give these characters a chance, I know some don't like NA reads for immaturity and the age limits of the characters but this book is about Family and living its a story about learning how to live, how to continue and how to move forward. But above all this book is Simplicity Kims books to talk to my heart in a way that speaks volumes, it touched me in ways I can't express but this book is an EXPERIENCE that everyone needs to try whatever age you are (Just my opinion though).
The Music
Again the music was apart of the story as much as the words were it was the life of the book so I'd highly recommend you listening some of these tracks as you read the book.
I Hope You Suffer ~ AFI
I Need My Girl ~ The National
Cope ~ Manchester Orchestra
Me ~ The 1975
Killing You ~ Broods
Figure It Out ~ Royal Blood
The Scientist ~ Coldplay
Homesick ~ Catfish and the Bottlemen
Baby Please Don't Leave me ~ Buddy Guy
Love Me Like You Used To ~ You Ask Me At Six
Giants ~ Bear Hands
All Around me ~ Flyleaf
Tiny Raindrop ~ Balance and Composure
Fall into the Party ~ Twin Atlantic
Kiss Me ~ Ed Sheeran
This book was written for the READERS so READ IT!!!!
That. Is. All.
For more Reviews and Blog Posts
April 9, 2018
4.5 “GUS” Stars
➽ FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED:
I AM SO EMOTIONALLY INVESTED WITH THESE CHARACTERS.
How can I explain my love for this book? Is not exactly because this books is a complete masterpiece, is definitely not. Someone even wrote in a review that we just loved this book because of the existence of Bright Side. It didn’t offend me because honestly I think is 100% truth. I connected and craved this story because I was a fan of all these characters on Bright Side. I fell in love with Gus from the first appearance he made in that book, and I always wished for his happy ending. I was immersed in this story then again not by the romance, but something more, just curiosity for this characters and love for the way Kim makes me wanna love life and appreciate people around me.Her books make me want to be a better person, in all honesty.
Also, I love how her fangirling for sunset sons makes so many appearances in this book. Like she even said Gus was basically the characterization of Rory Williams, and I don’t complain, I loved having him in my imagination as Gus.If you haven't listened to them, do it. They are awesome and so underrated.
Kim’s and my visualization of Gus:
Anyway, let’s move from ogling the picture to my actual review, although no hard feelings if you prefer to ogle the picture.
The writing. More than the writing itself, I love the way Kim Holden thinks, is it weird? I mean I relate to a deep level with her characters philosophies on life and all her quotes hit home. Her stories always make me so emotional, like not only in ugly-cry mode, but just, happiness, sadness, nostalgia, awkwardness, desolation, peace. She certainly makes you go on a roller coaster.
The characters. They are my life. Basically, these books are character-driven all the way, if you are not invested in the characters, you will not like the story. First Gus, Gus is one of my ultimate crushes, musician, good guy, emotional, funny, caring. His journey in this books is heartbreaking, we see all his stages dealing with grief and is so beautiful but heart-wrenching. I will honestly say I wasn’t that invested or connected with Scout, maybe is because I didn’t meet her in the last book, and she is also very distant in so many ways, but at the end of the novel I cared deeply. Families, omg this book made want to have families like this. These families are not conventional, but they are so loving. And I am not just talking about blood-related, I am talking about friends and new born families. One of my favorite characters all the way is Gus’s mom, she rocks. The sweetest, strongest and kindness women I have ever read about.okay maybe Kate was up there with that description too. The talent of Kim to make me care about the characters is just astounding, even if the characters appeared just in 3 chapters I was rooting for them, loving them.
Plot. We basically follow the progress of the relationship between Gus and Scout but is also about their personal growth in different areas of their life. This book doesn’t have a mind fucking twist, is character focused all the way. AND I AM TOTALLY FINE WITH IT.
Relationship. Slow burn romance, oh boy. I had completely forgotten how long it takes for our main characters to make a move, but I love it. I love to see how a relationship progresses from non-existent to small connection to full-blown sparks. And I fucking loved the sticky note play, like so cute. I will say I was missing a bit more chemistry, but I will repeat it again I don’t love this books because of the romance, which is weird for me but hey, there is always a first time.
The fucking epic quote of course:
I love this series, and I will keep re-reading them throughout my whole life. If you haven’t picked up this book or the first book, try them please.
”I think we were meant from the very beginning. Maybe it was all the fucking sticky notes”
“You love my sticky notes.”
“I do. The tour bus won’t be the same without you and your sticky notes.”
➽ FULL REVIEW NOW POSTED:
I AM SO EMOTIONALLY INVESTED WITH THESE CHARACTERS.
How can I explain my love for this book? Is not exactly because this books is a complete masterpiece, is definitely not. Someone even wrote in a review that we just loved this book because of the existence of Bright Side. It didn’t offend me because honestly I think is 100% truth. I connected and craved this story because I was a fan of all these characters on Bright Side. I fell in love with Gus from the first appearance he made in that book, and I always wished for his happy ending. I was immersed in this story then again not by the romance, but something more, just curiosity for this characters and love for the way Kim makes me wanna love life and appreciate people around me.Her books make me want to be a better person, in all honesty.
Also, I love how her fangirling for sunset sons makes so many appearances in this book. Like she even said Gus was basically the characterization of Rory Williams, and I don’t complain, I loved having him in my imagination as Gus.
Kim’s and my visualization of Gus:
Anyway, let’s move from ogling the picture to my actual review, although no hard feelings if you prefer to ogle the picture.
The writing. More than the writing itself, I love the way Kim Holden thinks, is it weird? I mean I relate to a deep level with her characters philosophies on life and all her quotes hit home. Her stories always make me so emotional, like not only in ugly-cry mode, but just, happiness, sadness, nostalgia, awkwardness, desolation, peace. She certainly makes you go on a roller coaster.
The characters. They are my life. Basically, these books are character-driven all the way, if you are not invested in the characters, you will not like the story. First Gus, Gus is one of my ultimate crushes, musician, good guy, emotional, funny, caring. His journey in this books is heartbreaking, we see all his stages dealing with grief and is so beautiful but heart-wrenching. I will honestly say I wasn’t that invested or connected with Scout, maybe is because I didn’t meet her in the last book, and she is also very distant in so many ways, but at the end of the novel I cared deeply. Families, omg this book made want to have families like this. These families are not conventional, but they are so loving. And I am not just talking about blood-related, I am talking about friends and new born families. One of my favorite characters all the way is Gus’s mom, she rocks. The sweetest, strongest and kindness women I have ever read about.
Plot. We basically follow the progress of the relationship between Gus and Scout but is also about their personal growth in different areas of their life. This book doesn’t have a mind fucking twist, is character focused all the way. AND I AM TOTALLY FINE WITH IT.
Relationship. Slow burn romance, oh boy. I had completely forgotten how long it takes for our main characters to make a move, but I love it. I love to see how a relationship progresses from non-existent to small connection to full-blown sparks. And I fucking loved the sticky note play, like so cute. I will say I was missing a bit more chemistry, but I will repeat it again I don’t love this books because of the romance, which is weird for me but hey, there is always a first time.
The fucking epic quote of course:
"Bright Side helped make me the man I am, and Scout helped me remember who that man was, helping me become my own person. I love her so much."
I love this series, and I will keep re-reading them throughout my whole life. If you haven’t picked up this book or the first book, try them please.
September 6, 2015
Every since that heartbreaking ending and what Gus did in Bright Side, I've been dying to hear his story and thankfully, now we get to. It was really easy to like Gus in Bright Side and not only like him but commiserate with him. I not only wanted him to have a HEA but I needed it.
The one thing that surprised me was I had no idea how much more I would come to love Gus but...that comes later. First, we have to watch him self destruct. Luckily, it wasn't as bad as it could've been...thank goodness for Franco or it would've been much worse.
And then there's Scout...and her baggage. At first, I wasn't too happy about that. It took time away from Gus but as the story progress, it made more sense and especially with them needing and helping each other.
I LOVED the sticky notes and how they were each always looking out for the other. And as much as I enjoyed the two of them together...they were really only part of the story.
The rest is, well, all the rest. All the rest of this mismatched, patched together, ragtag group that just is simply family. KH really had everyone come together so smoothly and so necessarily. Just like Rook's music...they all flowed together seamlessly...even Spare Ribs!
But that's the most I'm going to tell you. I can't do it justice and I don't want to. You really need to read it for yourself and see how all the pieces come together. If you read Bright Side, you owe it to yourself to read this. Enjoy!
The Good Stuff:
Dual Pov's? Yes.
Steam Factor? (Scale 1 - 5) 3-4...Gus is really swoony!
Angst? (Scale 1 - 5) 2-3 maybe. There's some bittersweet moments so more emotional than angsty.
Next book? I think that's it? I couldn't find anything else at this time but I could definitely see her writing more. Maybe a spin off for Franco? or Paxton? or (gasp!) Keller?
Favorite quotes:
♥ "Nothing goes better with crackers and PB than grape juice."
♥ "I have a feeling your heart is heavy, and when your heart is heavy, everything’s harder. Dealing with life is harder. Believe me, I know. The negative is amplified, and sometimes that extinguishes the peace.”
♥ “Spare Ribs is a righteous name. And she’s no lady, Impatient. Don’t let her fool you, she’s a hardcore hustler.”
♥ “That’s the secret. You find what you love and you go for it. Life ain’t about coasting. It’s about pushin’ the damn gas pedal all the way to the floor. Same goes for fun and love, no coasting. Pedal to the floor.”
♥ "No worries. A Stella ambush is the best kind of ambush."
♥ "I won't pry, but I will supply."
♥ "But I just want tonight to be about us and this insane, unstoppable need I have to be near you. Around you. To be your friend. To make you smile. To make you laugh. To make you happy. To protect you."
♥ “You’re my everything, Scout. Everything. I love you with everything that I am. Everything I’ll ever be. You’re my future, sweetheart.”
(Prior to review)
OMG!!its coming out in 16 days! IM READING IT! She did Gus proud!
The one thing that surprised me was I had no idea how much more I would come to love Gus but...that comes later. First, we have to watch him self destruct. Luckily, it wasn't as bad as it could've been...thank goodness for Franco or it would've been much worse.
And then there's Scout...and her baggage. At first, I wasn't too happy about that. It took time away from Gus but as the story progress, it made more sense and especially with them needing and helping each other.
I LOVED the sticky notes and how they were each always looking out for the other. And as much as I enjoyed the two of them together...they were really only part of the story.
The rest is, well, all the rest. All the rest of this mismatched, patched together, ragtag group that just is simply family. KH really had everyone come together so smoothly and so necessarily. Just like Rook's music...they all flowed together seamlessly...even Spare Ribs!
But that's the most I'm going to tell you. I can't do it justice and I don't want to. You really need to read it for yourself and see how all the pieces come together. If you read Bright Side, you owe it to yourself to read this. Enjoy!
The Good Stuff:
Dual Pov's? Yes.
Steam Factor? (Scale 1 - 5) 3-4...Gus is really swoony!
Angst? (Scale 1 - 5) 2-3 maybe. There's some bittersweet moments so more emotional than angsty.
Next book? I think that's it? I couldn't find anything else at this time but I could definitely see her writing more. Maybe a spin off for Franco? or Paxton? or (gasp!) Keller?
Favorite quotes:
♥ "Nothing goes better with crackers and PB than grape juice."
♥ "I have a feeling your heart is heavy, and when your heart is heavy, everything’s harder. Dealing with life is harder. Believe me, I know. The negative is amplified, and sometimes that extinguishes the peace.”
♥ “Spare Ribs is a righteous name. And she’s no lady, Impatient. Don’t let her fool you, she’s a hardcore hustler.”
♥ “That’s the secret. You find what you love and you go for it. Life ain’t about coasting. It’s about pushin’ the damn gas pedal all the way to the floor. Same goes for fun and love, no coasting. Pedal to the floor.”
♥ "No worries. A Stella ambush is the best kind of ambush."
♥ "I won't pry, but I will supply."
♥ "But I just want tonight to be about us and this insane, unstoppable need I have to be near you. Around you. To be your friend. To make you smile. To make you laugh. To make you happy. To protect you."
♥ “You’re my everything, Scout. Everything. I love you with everything that I am. Everything I’ll ever be. You’re my future, sweetheart.”
(Prior to review)
OMG!!
March 15, 2017
I love this book
so much
it makes my heart ache.
I read book one, Bright Side, this past summer and it basically destroyed me. Gus was one of the main characters in Bright Side and I fell for him. With the way things ended in Bright Side, I needed to read Gus's story. I love Gus so much and how he reacted to what happened in Bright Side broke my heart. This book is Gus's story (obviously). I needed to see how Gus heals and deals with his pain. I needed my baby to find happiness again. I was also scared to start this book. I knew what was coming, I knew I'd read about a broken Gus. I knew there was going to be a lot of mention of Kate. Was I ready? Yes and no.
The book starts with a devastated Gus. His life literally fell apart and he simply doesn't want to survive anymore. Kim Holden is a brilliant writer. How she described Gus's suffering, sorrow and pain... it hit me right in my heart. She perfectly conveyed his emotions. I just sat there sobbing over him. After reaching his lowest point, Gus slowly starts to pick himself back up again. The healing process was super realistic and spot-on. I applaud Kim Holden for that. Gus is a beautiful character and he is easily one of my all-time favorites. His relationship with his mother and his band mates is great and I just... wow. I just love Gus, okay.
Scout is a new addition in the book. She's a wonderful character, as well, and I love her. One thing I absolutely loved about this book was that there was no insta-love. It's a slow burn and Scout and Gus's relationship takes time to develop and grow. It's healthy, beautiful and it's realistic. I loved it. I can't remember the last time I read a romance book with no insta-love. Round of applause for Kim Holden.
Keller makes an appearance in this book and I loved seeing him heal, too. Keller and Gus's friendship is another beautiful thing in this book. This book is just beautiful. Beautifully painful and just beautiful. Everything about it was brilliant.
I cried so many times reading this. Every reminder and mention of Kate had me bawling. Gus's pain had me bawling. Keller's pain had me bawling.
I adore this book. It has a lot of messages - most we've heard multiple times before, but the way they were conveyed... through which characters they were conveyed... that makes it different. This is an unforgettable book. I highly recommend it, but definitely read Bright Side before, because this one is a sequel.
“I’m at the tipping point of a transformation that began months ago, an intentional decision put in motion. And it feels so fucking good. I’ve come to the full realization that my happiness, my life, falls squarely on my shoulders. No one’s gonna do it for it me. I’m the one who makes it or breaks it. It’s a choice. A choice that demands action in exchange for reward. Idleness and complacency lead to mediocrity. Sometimes action is really fucking hard fought, but that’s when the payoff’s the highest. That’s when great things happen. Not good things … but epic things. And I’ve fallen in love with epic. It’s the only way to live.”
I read book one, Bright Side, this past summer and it basically destroyed me. Gus was one of the main characters in Bright Side and I fell for him. With the way things ended in Bright Side, I needed to read Gus's story. I love Gus so much and how he reacted to what happened in Bright Side broke my heart. This book is Gus's story (obviously). I needed to see how Gus heals and deals with his pain. I needed my baby to find happiness again. I was also scared to start this book. I knew what was coming, I knew I'd read about a broken Gus. I knew there was going to be a lot of mention of Kate. Was I ready? Yes and no.
“How do you back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever?”
The book starts with a devastated Gus. His life literally fell apart and he simply doesn't want to survive anymore. Kim Holden is a brilliant writer. How she described Gus's suffering, sorrow and pain... it hit me right in my heart. She perfectly conveyed his emotions. I just sat there sobbing over him. After reaching his lowest point, Gus slowly starts to pick himself back up again. The healing process was super realistic and spot-on. I applaud Kim Holden for that. Gus is a beautiful character and he is easily one of my all-time favorites. His relationship with his mother and his band mates is great and I just... wow. I just love Gus, okay.
Scout is a new addition in the book. She's a wonderful character, as well, and I love her. One thing I absolutely loved about this book was that there was no insta-love. It's a slow burn and Scout and Gus's relationship takes time to develop and grow. It's healthy, beautiful and it's realistic. I loved it. I can't remember the last time I read a romance book with no insta-love. Round of applause for Kim Holden.
Keller makes an appearance in this book and I loved seeing him heal, too. Keller and Gus's friendship is another beautiful thing in this book. This book is just beautiful. Beautifully painful and just beautiful. Everything about it was brilliant.
I cried so many times reading this. Every reminder and mention of Kate had me bawling. Gus's pain had me bawling. Keller's pain had me bawling.
“There’s something epic that happens every day if you look hard enough for it. And every day is a chance to go out there and do epic. The key is putting forth the effort.”
I adore this book. It has a lot of messages - most we've heard multiple times before, but the way they were conveyed... through which characters they were conveyed... that makes it different. This is an unforgettable book. I highly recommend it, but definitely read Bright Side before, because this one is a sequel.
April 27, 2019
*****FIVE++++ STARS*****
Here are my overall ratings:
Heroes: 5+++++
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5+++++
Angst: 5
Steam: 4
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
Here are my overall ratings:
Heroes: 5+++++
Heroine: 4.5
Plot: 5+++++
Angst: 5
Steam: 4
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 5
June 20, 2015
Excuse me, but NO.
I've read Bright Side and absolutely loved it. I was looking forward to seeing how Gus moves on after book one. When I read BS I had a feeling Gus was going to make a perfect book boyfriend. Kim Holden's characters are refreshing, because she writes perfectly cute, nice and feel-good characters and the men are not as*holes. But I have to say, I kinda' think all those 5 star reviews GUS has been receiving is due to the fact people still love and rave about Bright Side. Here's why GUS just didn't work for me:
1. The whole relationship with Scout was off. Scout wasn't a likeable character (even less so compared to the pretty perfect Kate in Bright Side). She was boring, annoying and pretty much a b*tch 70% of the book. The relationship between Gus and Scout didn't take off for a very long time and then was rushed the last 20% or so. I did NOT appreciate that.
2.
3. Wow, the book was SLOW. I mean, BS took time to pick up speed, but I still enjoyed the journey. Gus, on the other hand, became interesting toward the 80% mark, and I almost DNFed it because of it. It was totally underwhelming and I found myself skimming a lot of parts. I think it's the author's thing, to pick up speed toward the end, and trust me, I don't really mind that at all, but NOTHING happened until we hit the 75% point. FRUSTRATING.
4. Gus came off as too nice. If you read the book you know what I mean. He was all heart. He missed an edge. I liked him better with the mystery of BS.
5. The plot was a MESS. I mean, really, a big, freaking mess. Characters came and went . I had a feeling the characters were not making progress in their journey toward happiness. I dunno, it seemed...contrived.
One last note:
I love Kim Holden's writing. I still need to write a review for BS because it was an easy 4 star book for me. But I gotta' say, this was very underwhelming and when I saw the sick average of 4.68 stars for this book I was shocked. It really didn't work for me, but maybe it's just me. Lookign forward to reading what else this author has in store for me...but Gus, baby, it's not me, it's you :(
I've read Bright Side and absolutely loved it. I was looking forward to seeing how Gus moves on after book one. When I read BS I had a feeling Gus was going to make a perfect book boyfriend. Kim Holden's characters are refreshing, because she writes perfectly cute, nice and feel-good characters and the men are not as*holes. But I have to say, I kinda' think all those 5 star reviews GUS has been receiving is due to the fact people still love and rave about Bright Side. Here's why GUS just didn't work for me:
1. The whole relationship with Scout was off. Scout wasn't a likeable character (even less so compared to the pretty perfect Kate in Bright Side). She was boring, annoying and pretty much a b*tch 70% of the book. The relationship between Gus and Scout didn't take off for a very long time and then was rushed the last 20% or so. I did NOT appreciate that.
2.
3. Wow, the book was SLOW. I mean, BS took time to pick up speed, but I still enjoyed the journey. Gus, on the other hand, became interesting toward the 80% mark, and I almost DNFed it because of it. It was totally underwhelming and I found myself skimming a lot of parts. I think it's the author's thing, to pick up speed toward the end, and trust me, I don't really mind that at all, but NOTHING happened until we hit the 75% point. FRUSTRATING.
4. Gus came off as too nice. If you read the book you know what I mean. He was all heart. He missed an edge. I liked him better with the mystery of BS.
5. The plot was a MESS. I mean, really, a big, freaking mess. Characters came and went . I had a feeling the characters were not making progress in their journey toward happiness. I dunno, it seemed...contrived.
One last note:
I love Kim Holden's writing. I still need to write a review for BS because it was an easy 4 star book for me. But I gotta' say, this was very underwhelming and when I saw the sick average of 4.68 stars for this book I was shocked. It really didn't work for me, but maybe it's just me. Lookign forward to reading what else this author has in store for me...but Gus, baby, it's not me, it's you :(
November 25, 2023
NEW AUDIOBOOK VERSION...
Everything I said before still stand, this book is a dear favourite of mine....
Now the new audio I wasn't really sure because Alex is still our Gus but the other narrators weren't. I LOVED it Gus was still Gus but better and Scout was PERFECT! I don't get into the Kate voice.. just that Andi isn't my Kate and will leave it at that.
I re read because well GUS was my favorite book of 2016 and Franco audiobook just came out and I wanted to read GUS again... <3 Loved it soooooo hard...
5 Gus Stars
I am going to be completely honest, I wasn't going to read Gus, and here is why. I was completely gutted with Bright Side. Like my heart hurt too much to revisit any part of this story again. But with the coaxing of some fabulous, book friends. I decided what the heck give Gus a shot.
And thank God I did; his book really does help heal the hole your heart will have after that book.
Gus has a hard time as would anyone who loses someone, and he learns to live again. It’s a brilliant story and again I am so, so, glad I read it. Sooooo if you tackle the Bright Side.. Read GUS afterwards. I promise the hurt won’t be as hard after him.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
Everything I said before still stand, this book is a dear favourite of mine....
Now the new audio I wasn't really sure because Alex is still our Gus but the other narrators weren't. I LOVED it Gus was still Gus but better and Scout was PERFECT! I don't get into the Kate voice.. just that Andi isn't my Kate and will leave it at that.
I re read because well GUS was my favorite book of 2016 and Franco audiobook just came out and I wanted to read GUS again... <3 Loved it soooooo hard...
5 Gus Stars
I am going to be completely honest, I wasn't going to read Gus, and here is why. I was completely gutted with Bright Side. Like my heart hurt too much to revisit any part of this story again. But with the coaxing of some fabulous, book friends. I decided what the heck give Gus a shot.
And thank God I did; his book really does help heal the hole your heart will have after that book.
Gus has a hard time as would anyone who loses someone, and he learns to live again. It’s a brilliant story and again I am so, so, glad I read it. Sooooo if you tackle the Bright Side.. Read GUS afterwards. I promise the hurt won’t be as hard after him.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
July 21, 2016
Reviewed by: Hello Beautiful Book Blog
Perfect sequel to Bright Side. This book will help you heal and provide happiness and closure.
*****Spoilers for Bright Side#1 below*****
Kim Holden has a way with creating the best chemistry between all of her characters. I'm not just talking about romantic chemistry, but also the friendships the characters share. It is really something special and I feel it each time I read one of her books. Just as in Bright Side, Gus is strongly character driven. I really value a book that makes me feel like the characters are old friends. It's a wonderful thing. Number one thing for me is the likability of the characters and as I've stated before, these are top notch.
I absolutely love Gus' character! He is so purely good to his core. I guess I just have a weakness for nice. I mean he's been through a lot obviously and made some bad decisions, but is healing. Reading through the process of Gus' grief helped me get through the emotions I was feeling about Kate. Every time Kate was brought up tears just filled my eyes, but by the end they were happy tears thinking about what great books these are. I am so happy I decided to give these a chance. I won't ever regret reading them.
Rook on the road
Scout
Scout is put into Gus' life unexpectedly, mostly to babysit him on the tour... long story. She is really standoffish and has her own issues to deal with. After the tour ends Scout gets a job with Gus' mother, Audrey, being a personal assistant since hers retired. Gus is behind it, because he is a selfless person and acts on his kindness all the time. Audrey is just an amazing person and lets Scout stay with them while she is getting on her feet. With Gus and Scout living under the same roof they spend a lot of time together. This romance was sort of a slow burn instead of an insta-love, which I thought was quite lovely. I needed Gus to be happy in his life like I need my next breath.
I totally see this photo as Rook with Spare Rib, the cat Gus rescues in the shot.
I loved seeing all of the characters from Bright Side pop up. It was like welcoming old friends home after a long trip. I loved every one of Bright Side's friends and I'm glad they were present in this book. Especially Keller and little Stella. I needed to know how they were getting along and know they were going to be okay.
These books are very dear to my heart and the characters are as well. I won't forget this incredible journey of love, loss, and healing.
It's Showtime!
Perfect sequel to Bright Side. This book will help you heal and provide happiness and closure.
*****Spoilers for Bright Side#1 below*****
Kim Holden has a way with creating the best chemistry between all of her characters. I'm not just talking about romantic chemistry, but also the friendships the characters share. It is really something special and I feel it each time I read one of her books. Just as in Bright Side, Gus is strongly character driven. I really value a book that makes me feel like the characters are old friends. It's a wonderful thing. Number one thing for me is the likability of the characters and as I've stated before, these are top notch.
“Bright Side wasn’t only my best friend; she was like my other half ... the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humor, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart.”
I absolutely love Gus' character! He is so purely good to his core. I guess I just have a weakness for nice. I mean he's been through a lot obviously and made some bad decisions, but is healing. Reading through the process of Gus' grief helped me get through the emotions I was feeling about Kate. Every time Kate was brought up tears just filled my eyes, but by the end they were happy tears thinking about what great books these are. I am so happy I decided to give these a chance. I won't ever regret reading them.
"You only get one chance at this circus called life. Don’t sit in the crowd watchin’ it happen. You jump right in and be the ringleader. That’s where you find your fire.”
Rook on the road
Scout
Scout is put into Gus' life unexpectedly, mostly to babysit him on the tour... long story. She is really standoffish and has her own issues to deal with. After the tour ends Scout gets a job with Gus' mother, Audrey, being a personal assistant since hers retired. Gus is behind it, because he is a selfless person and acts on his kindness all the time. Audrey is just an amazing person and lets Scout stay with them while she is getting on her feet. With Gus and Scout living under the same roof they spend a lot of time together. This romance was sort of a slow burn instead of an insta-love, which I thought was quite lovely. I needed Gus to be happy in his life like I need my next breath.
“I think people find each other when they’re ready for them. When they need each other the most. And it’s in that time of need that the strongest relationships are formed.”
I totally see this photo as Rook with Spare Rib, the cat Gus rescues in the shot.
I loved seeing all of the characters from Bright Side pop up. It was like welcoming old friends home after a long trip. I loved every one of Bright Side's friends and I'm glad they were present in this book. Especially Keller and little Stella. I needed to know how they were getting along and know they were going to be okay.
These books are very dear to my heart and the characters are as well. I won't forget this incredible journey of love, loss, and healing.
“Epic is a state of mind.”
It's Showtime!
August 1, 2015
***** 5 Wonderful Stars*****
This duet is very dear to my heart and I had no doubt I was going to love Gus as much, if not more than Bright Side. These are characters that stay in your heart forever, their stories, not only give you the feels but they will also inspire you to try to always live life on the bright side.
The story picks up right after Bright Side left Gus. He was completely lost without his best friend. Then he is forced to go on tour to promote his band's new album in Europe.
Gus is deep into dark times. He's using anything and anyone he can find to help him scape from the reality that it's his life, he doesn't know who he is without the girl who was his biggest support and strength. When they get back to the states, due to his bad behavior his manager finds Gus a PA, someone who can make sure he stays on his game. That person is Scout; she's not affected by Gus's looks or rockstar persona, she's focused on just getting the job done.
Scout and Gus get on wrong foot at first, they can barely stand each other. Is only when the tour is over and he suggests Scout as his mother's new Personal Assistant, that a friendship slowly starts to form. Scout realizes that she's just as lost as Gus; both of these characters are struggling to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
This book's message is kind of like that bible verse that says; Love Never Fails. Family, true friendship and love is what will help Gus and Scout heal and feel inspired about a bright future.
Kim Holden literally rocked my world with both of these books. Even though I cried a ton, after I was done reading them my heart was soaring. Filled with music and such a positive message about love, only makes me feel super happy and inspired. Absolutely beautiful read!!!
This book has an awesome music playlist at the end.
This duet is very dear to my heart and I had no doubt I was going to love Gus as much, if not more than Bright Side. These are characters that stay in your heart forever, their stories, not only give you the feels but they will also inspire you to try to always live life on the bright side.
The story picks up right after Bright Side left Gus. He was completely lost without his best friend. Then he is forced to go on tour to promote his band's new album in Europe.
Gus is deep into dark times. He's using anything and anyone he can find to help him scape from the reality that it's his life, he doesn't know who he is without the girl who was his biggest support and strength. When they get back to the states, due to his bad behavior his manager finds Gus a PA, someone who can make sure he stays on his game. That person is Scout; she's not affected by Gus's looks or rockstar persona, she's focused on just getting the job done.
Scout and Gus get on wrong foot at first, they can barely stand each other. Is only when the tour is over and he suggests Scout as his mother's new Personal Assistant, that a friendship slowly starts to form. Scout realizes that she's just as lost as Gus; both of these characters are struggling to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
This book's message is kind of like that bible verse that says; Love Never Fails. Family, true friendship and love is what will help Gus and Scout heal and feel inspired about a bright future.
Kim Holden literally rocked my world with both of these books. Even though I cried a ton, after I was done reading them my heart was soaring. Filled with music and such a positive message about love, only makes me feel super happy and inspired. Absolutely beautiful read!!!
This book has an awesome music playlist at the end.
June 30, 2016
2.5-3 arasında gidip geliyorum.
Gün Işığım'ı çok fazla sevmemekle birlikte sonundan etkilendiğim için 3.5 vermiştim. Kitap bana oldukça iyimser, Pollyannavari gelmişti. Ve kitapta en sevdiğim karakterlerden birisi de Gus olmuştu. O yüzden bu kitabı daha çok seveceğimi düşünüyordum. Ama düşündüğüm gibi olmadı.
Hani birisini çok az tanırsınız ama çok seversiniz. Sonra onu daha çok tanımak istersiniz sonra da bunu istediğinize pişman olursunuz. Hislerim az çok böyleydi. Keşke Gus'ı ilk kitaptaki haliyle bıraksaydım hafızamda. Çünkü bu kitapta Gus'ın yaptıklarına anlam veremediğim anlar oldu. İlk kitapta Gus'ı fazla insan, fazla bizden bulmuştum. Bu hoşuma gitmişti. Ama bu kitapta onu daha çok anlattıkça onunda herkesin iyiliği için koşturması falan bana yapay geldi. Ben gerçek hayatta hiç bir şeyin bu şekilde işlediğine inanamıyorum.
Sanırım kitaptan uzaklaşmanın asıl sebebi yazarın anlatımıydı. İlk kitapta da bu kitaptada yazarın anlatımını sevemedim. Şimdiki zaman okumayı seven ben bu kitaplarda rahatsız oldum. Üstelik çok fazla tekrara düşüyordu yazar. Aynı cümleleri durmadan okumak beni çok bunalttı. Keller'ı daha çok görmek isterdim özlemişim resmen •_•
Sevdiğim yerler yok mu var tabiki. Scout ile Gus'ın atışmalarını okurken sırıtmama engel olamadım. Scout'a ısınamamış çoğu kişi ama benim çok sevdiğim bir karakter oldu. Sanırım bunun sebebi de her şeye Pollyanna gibi yaklaşmamasıydı :')
İlk kitabı sevenlerin bunuda seveceğine eminim. Benim problemim yazarla :')
Gün Işığım'ı çok fazla sevmemekle birlikte sonundan etkilendiğim için 3.5 vermiştim. Kitap bana oldukça iyimser, Pollyannavari gelmişti. Ve kitapta en sevdiğim karakterlerden birisi de Gus olmuştu. O yüzden bu kitabı daha çok seveceğimi düşünüyordum. Ama düşündüğüm gibi olmadı.
Hani birisini çok az tanırsınız ama çok seversiniz. Sonra onu daha çok tanımak istersiniz sonra da bunu istediğinize pişman olursunuz. Hislerim az çok böyleydi. Keşke Gus'ı ilk kitaptaki haliyle bıraksaydım hafızamda. Çünkü bu kitapta Gus'ın yaptıklarına anlam veremediğim anlar oldu. İlk kitapta Gus'ı fazla insan, fazla bizden bulmuştum. Bu hoşuma gitmişti. Ama bu kitapta onu daha çok anlattıkça onunda herkesin iyiliği için koşturması falan bana yapay geldi. Ben gerçek hayatta hiç bir şeyin bu şekilde işlediğine inanamıyorum.
Sanırım kitaptan uzaklaşmanın asıl sebebi yazarın anlatımıydı. İlk kitapta da bu kitaptada yazarın anlatımını sevemedim. Şimdiki zaman okumayı seven ben bu kitaplarda rahatsız oldum. Üstelik çok fazla tekrara düşüyordu yazar. Aynı cümleleri durmadan okumak beni çok bunalttı. Keller'ı daha çok görmek isterdim özlemişim resmen •_•
Sevdiğim yerler yok mu var tabiki. Scout ile Gus'ın atışmalarını okurken sırıtmama engel olamadım. Scout'a ısınamamış çoğu kişi ama benim çok sevdiğim bir karakter oldu. Sanırım bunun sebebi de her şeye Pollyanna gibi yaklaşmamasıydı :')
İlk kitabı sevenlerin bunuda seveceğine eminim. Benim problemim yazarla :')
December 31, 2021
Wow! I was skeptical as to how anything could compare to Bright Side, but Gus repaired my heart from the wreckage and pain of that book. His transformation was something to behold, and I just adore him. I literally can’t stop thinking about these two books! Kim poured everything into these books, and it shows. “Do epic” will now be my inspiration for every goal I’m trying to achieve. “Be Brave”, and “Do Epic.”
May 21, 2015
GUS (Bright Side, #2) by Kim Holden
5 stars!!
After you have read something as perfect as Bright Side you are always going to be nervous reading the sequel, I mean, how can something so perfect ever be matched or even topped? Well, I needn’t have worried at all. As soon as GUS landed on my kindle I was all in from the first to last word. Kim Holden does Gus proud in this book and she has given us a story that was honest, real, emotional, intense and so heart-breakingly genuine that you just fell in love with these characters all over again. Kim Holden has once again touched my heart, I felt it all, the grief, the desolation, the turn around, that eureka moment and all the happy that follows. This book was perfectly balanced and I was so thankful that it rang true to life, losing someone that you are extremely close too is not something that you get over easily and it was never brushed aside, it was raw, but it was perfect.
Gus as you could imagine really struggles in the beginning and this is where I felt Kim Holden really hit her stride. As I said above, I felt his pain, I felt his emotions, and I felt his devastation. Gus really struggles to find himself. Bright Side was his other half, his soul mate, how could someone possibly go on when one half of them is missing? I have to say I was really worried about Gus, I knew that this was going to hit him hard, but to see how vulnerable and broken he was, was soul crushing at times. I always knew that he would have to hit rock bottom before he could start his painful clamour to the surface and the way this book was written made that journey all the more honest, genuine and unequivocally believable.
Gus in the beginning was a shell of the man that we loved and knew, he couldn’t write, he couldn’t play, he just existed and even then that was up for debate at times. I wanted him to watch the DVD, I wanted him to see what and who he had become, Bright Side wouldn’t have wanted this, he needed to know, he needed to be told but he just wouldn’t listen. He needed to work through his pain and even Bright Side herself had anticipated it, it just went to show how bone deep their connection was, it was beautiful. Stunningly beautiful.
We finally get that little sliver of light in the form of Scout, I am not going to say too much about Scout but she was the wake-up call that Gus needed. He made her life hell, but she gave back as good as she got. The journey that these two went on was honest and real, no insta love, not even instant friendship but none the less a beautiful, sometimes hilarious read that will have your emotions all over the place. In the beginning these two were by no means perfect together, but they worked, they worked well, they were just what each other needed, they were there for each other, the right place at the right time. The way Kim Holden develops their relationship before your eyes was inspiring, that character connection resonates deep within and once again we have another character that you cannot help but love.
Once again though Bright Side is not forgotten, this book was a celebration of her life, how life became after Bright Side but no-one would ever forget, forever at the forefront of people’s thoughts and memories and forever uttering or thinking “what would Bright Side do”? Every time she was mentioned the tears came, I just couldn’t help it and my thoughts would wander back to that orange book that decimated me last year.
It was great to catch up with all the characters, no-body was forgotten in this book, while this book is predominantly all about Gus, Gus’s journey would never be complete without his friends and they are all there as one big happy family, even Keller. This is what I loved, Kim Holden brought them all together, they were a unit, they may have lost the anchor that held them tethered together but those friendships were for life and life means life.
This was one emotional journey, but it was a necessary evil, the good far outweighs the bad and the journey that Kim Holden takes you on to get there was well worth the tears and the tissues. You have to sit back and salute Kim Holden, the woman is a genius, Bright Side was EPIC, Gus was EPIC, this author is just EPIC. This woman knows how to nail character connection; she brings these people to life. She knows how to nail emotions, she makes me cry even when not intended but most of all you live and breathe it all and that is what I love in a book. I want it to be an experience and this is one experience I will never ever forget. I totally and utterly loved Bright Side but I can honestly say I loved Gus just as much.
Amazing job Kim Holden, you should be so proud, not only did you do Gus Hawthorne justice but us the reader too. You gave us a raw, emotional, yet uplifting story that will have mended many hearts. But I can’t reiterate enough how much I respect the honesty in this book, it made it for me. It was real, it was believable, dude...it was EPIC.
www.theromancecover.com
5 stars!!
“Grief. Anger. Grief. Anger. Grief...Anger.”
After you have read something as perfect as Bright Side you are always going to be nervous reading the sequel, I mean, how can something so perfect ever be matched or even topped? Well, I needn’t have worried at all. As soon as GUS landed on my kindle I was all in from the first to last word. Kim Holden does Gus proud in this book and she has given us a story that was honest, real, emotional, intense and so heart-breakingly genuine that you just fell in love with these characters all over again. Kim Holden has once again touched my heart, I felt it all, the grief, the desolation, the turn around, that eureka moment and all the happy that follows. This book was perfectly balanced and I was so thankful that it rang true to life, losing someone that you are extremely close too is not something that you get over easily and it was never brushed aside, it was raw, but it was perfect.
Gus as you could imagine really struggles in the beginning and this is where I felt Kim Holden really hit her stride. As I said above, I felt his pain, I felt his emotions, and I felt his devastation. Gus really struggles to find himself. Bright Side was his other half, his soul mate, how could someone possibly go on when one half of them is missing? I have to say I was really worried about Gus, I knew that this was going to hit him hard, but to see how vulnerable and broken he was, was soul crushing at times. I always knew that he would have to hit rock bottom before he could start his painful clamour to the surface and the way this book was written made that journey all the more honest, genuine and unequivocally believable.
“Bright Side wasn’t only my best friend; she was like my other half...the other half of my brain, the other half of my conscience, the other half of my sense of humour, the other half of my creativity, the other half of my heart. How do you go back to doing what you did before, when half of you is gone forever.”
Gus in the beginning was a shell of the man that we loved and knew, he couldn’t write, he couldn’t play, he just existed and even then that was up for debate at times. I wanted him to watch the DVD, I wanted him to see what and who he had become, Bright Side wouldn’t have wanted this, he needed to know, he needed to be told but he just wouldn’t listen. He needed to work through his pain and even Bright Side herself had anticipated it, it just went to show how bone deep their connection was, it was beautiful. Stunningly beautiful.
“I don’t know to be Gus without her, dude. I’m fucking lost as shit.”
We finally get that little sliver of light in the form of Scout, I am not going to say too much about Scout but she was the wake-up call that Gus needed. He made her life hell, but she gave back as good as she got. The journey that these two went on was honest and real, no insta love, not even instant friendship but none the less a beautiful, sometimes hilarious read that will have your emotions all over the place. In the beginning these two were by no means perfect together, but they worked, they worked well, they were just what each other needed, they were there for each other, the right place at the right time. The way Kim Holden develops their relationship before your eyes was inspiring, that character connection resonates deep within and once again we have another character that you cannot help but love.
“He doesn’t live life, he feels it. I’ve seen it. I’ve seen grief strangle him. And I’ve seen happiness make him glow with a brightness so intense it’s almost blinding. That’s what makes him so special. It’s not his talent or his looks. It’s how much he feels.”
Once again though Bright Side is not forgotten, this book was a celebration of her life, how life became after Bright Side but no-one would ever forget, forever at the forefront of people’s thoughts and memories and forever uttering or thinking “what would Bright Side do”? Every time she was mentioned the tears came, I just couldn’t help it and my thoughts would wander back to that orange book that decimated me last year.
It was great to catch up with all the characters, no-body was forgotten in this book, while this book is predominantly all about Gus, Gus’s journey would never be complete without his friends and they are all there as one big happy family, even Keller. This is what I loved, Kim Holden brought them all together, they were a unit, they may have lost the anchor that held them tethered together but those friendships were for life and life means life.
This was one emotional journey, but it was a necessary evil, the good far outweighs the bad and the journey that Kim Holden takes you on to get there was well worth the tears and the tissues. You have to sit back and salute Kim Holden, the woman is a genius, Bright Side was EPIC, Gus was EPIC, this author is just EPIC. This woman knows how to nail character connection; she brings these people to life. She knows how to nail emotions, she makes me cry even when not intended but most of all you live and breathe it all and that is what I love in a book. I want it to be an experience and this is one experience I will never ever forget. I totally and utterly loved Bright Side but I can honestly say I loved Gus just as much.
“Not good things...but epic things. And I’ve fallen in love with epic. It’s the only way to live.”
Amazing job Kim Holden, you should be so proud, not only did you do Gus Hawthorne justice but us the reader too. You gave us a raw, emotional, yet uplifting story that will have mended many hearts. But I can’t reiterate enough how much I respect the honesty in this book, it made it for me. It was real, it was believable, dude...it was EPIC.
www.theromancecover.com
May 31, 2015
5+++++ STARS
This one made me cry hard, laugh hard, and smile hard.
UTTERLY FABULOUS!!!!
This one made me cry hard, laugh hard, and smile hard.
UTTERLY FABULOUS!!!!
February 8, 2018
Me ha parecido una historia sosa, plana, simplemente el día a día de Gus.
No he visto feeling entre los protagonistas y he visto sobre todo poco romance.
Nada que ver con el de Kate.
No he visto feeling entre los protagonistas y he visto sobre todo poco romance.
Nada que ver con el de Kate.
May 8, 2015
I loved Bright Side with all my heart. The book and the girl. It was so beautiful and real.
But Gus. Gus stole my heart in its entirety. I cried more than I did for Bright Side, actually. I watched Gus in his downward spiral and I watched him grow and heal. He was so human and heart-broken and I was right there with him.
I felt his whole journey, and I was honored to be on it with him (and Scout).
I know that Bright Side changed lives, and I understand that. But it was Gus that did it for me. It (he?-- I don't even know if I'm talking about the book or him!) gave me hope and it put me back together.
Absolutely brilliant.
Well done, Kim. :)
But Gus. Gus stole my heart in its entirety. I cried more than I did for Bright Side, actually. I watched Gus in his downward spiral and I watched him grow and heal. He was so human and heart-broken and I was right there with him.
I felt his whole journey, and I was honored to be on it with him (and Scout).
I know that Bright Side changed lives, and I understand that. But it was Gus that did it for me. It (he?-- I don't even know if I'm talking about the book or him!) gave me hope and it put me back together.
Absolutely brilliant.
Well done, Kim. :)
February 8, 2017
Kim Holden....... Dude........ You totally broke my heart in the most Epic way....... AGAIN!!!
Last year I read a book with a very plain orange cover, that completely did a number on me. It's a book that has stayed with me and I often think about Kate, when I read an emotional book. Apart from the main story about the beautiful Bright Side, I came away wanting to know more about Kate's best friend, Gus, because I well and truly fell for his huge heart, so this brings me to now and the book with the very plain black cover.
Gus's journey starts right after Kate's funeral, and to say he's a shell of his former self would be an understatement. He's drowning himself in alcohol to try and block out the pain and heartache of loosing the girl who meant the world to him.
For Gus it feels like life is over, but the world around him still goes on. It's time for Rook to go on tour and they need their lead singer. But with his behaviour concerning management they hire him a PA to hopefully take some of the strain.
The last thing Scout McKenzie needs is to be picking up after an Arsehole Rock Star, but it gets her away from the reality of her real life. She's a girl with secrets and scars that causes her to keep herself closed off.
I have to admit, going into this I was terrified that it could tarnish the love I have for this story, but what I got was something so unbelievably emotional, that had me consumed right from the start. I felt everything right there along side Gus and my heart broke a thousand times. Kim Holden knows how to write feelings, she knows how to capture her audience and she undoubtedly did Gus proud.
I loved how every single person was involved, how we get to catch up with everyone and see how loosing Bright Side effected each and every one of them.
This is a beautiful slow burn relationship, which teaches you not to judge a book by its cover, which fits perfect when you think of the covers for this series. I'm not usually a fan of the romance coming so far into a book, but I couldn't imagine this being done any other way.
If your after a tear jerker that makes you really feel, then pick up Bright Side followed by Gus. Pour yourself a large glass of wine, grab a large box of tissues and enjoy.
Last year I read a book with a very plain orange cover, that completely did a number on me. It's a book that has stayed with me and I often think about Kate, when I read an emotional book. Apart from the main story about the beautiful Bright Side, I came away wanting to know more about Kate's best friend, Gus, because I well and truly fell for his huge heart, so this brings me to now and the book with the very plain black cover.
Gus's journey starts right after Kate's funeral, and to say he's a shell of his former self would be an understatement. He's drowning himself in alcohol to try and block out the pain and heartache of loosing the girl who meant the world to him.
For Gus it feels like life is over, but the world around him still goes on. It's time for Rook to go on tour and they need their lead singer. But with his behaviour concerning management they hire him a PA to hopefully take some of the strain.
The last thing Scout McKenzie needs is to be picking up after an Arsehole Rock Star, but it gets her away from the reality of her real life. She's a girl with secrets and scars that causes her to keep herself closed off.
I have to admit, going into this I was terrified that it could tarnish the love I have for this story, but what I got was something so unbelievably emotional, that had me consumed right from the start. I felt everything right there along side Gus and my heart broke a thousand times. Kim Holden knows how to write feelings, she knows how to capture her audience and she undoubtedly did Gus proud.
I loved how every single person was involved, how we get to catch up with everyone and see how loosing Bright Side effected each and every one of them.
This is a beautiful slow burn relationship, which teaches you not to judge a book by its cover, which fits perfect when you think of the covers for this series. I'm not usually a fan of the romance coming so far into a book, but I couldn't imagine this being done any other way.
If your after a tear jerker that makes you really feel, then pick up Bright Side followed by Gus. Pour yourself a large glass of wine, grab a large box of tissues and enjoy.
January 12, 2016
People, I'm going to go over board here and rate this with
"6 GUS stars"
this story deserves no less...and it was an experience I won't forget...
this was a closure I needed, it was more than enough to make me feel COMPLETE on several different levels...and bear with me cause I can't help it LOL but do this...
and yes Gus was in my heart already from the first book Bright Side, he was just the one who fit in that one part of my shattered heart to fill it with hope...
and what I got from him was more - as he calls it redemption, it was a road much needed to feel whole again and to heal..to come to a point where LOSS is NOT a LACK but a JOINT PART, a NOTION that you go on LIVING and the memory stays with you as long as you feed it - with the fulfillment of the promise, of expectation, of hope...love can only grow on love...and that's what Scout was for Gus
I loved the different point of view on scars...that had a special, special meaning for me - you see, there are scars on the outside and scars on the inside, and people wear them differently...those that are NOT visible are coming out through out their actions and thoughts....but those who have them on the outside are in double danger of having been scared on the inside as well....
although we like to consider ourselves as being above superficial things like judging the others based solely on their appearences...we are actually failing in that department on an everyday basis...wheater we like to face it or not...
and GUS just completely blew me away with his actions towards Scout (who's wearing her outside scars but in fact learning to hide from people, being always in the backgrounds, in the shadows - Gus changes that!!!!)
Gus: "So basically what you're saying is I should tell all the doubt to fuck off, because I'm better than I think I am? That YOU see me differently than I see me?"
Scout: "Yes. That's exactly what I'm saying."
Gus: "That's exactly what I'm saying, too"
"You don't see the woman I see."
"Pretty girl. You're beautiful." Another kiss paints another scar. "Every," another kiss, "thing," another kiss, "about," another kiss, "you," this kiss falls lower on my neck, "is fucking perfect."
and that is what LOVING actually means, when LOVE actually makes sense as a feeling beyond describtion, what makes us larger than LIFE, that one moment in time, in this short life period we have, when you are MORE than you can be by making the one you love even greater...just two souls reaching out to each other in solace, in peace, in comfort, in love....
Dusti, my lovely partner in crime called BR-ing, thank you for being here with me on this journey....
"6 GUS stars"
this story deserves no less...and it was an experience I won't forget...
this was a closure I needed, it was more than enough to make me feel COMPLETE on several different levels...and bear with me cause I can't help it LOL but do this...
and yes Gus was in my heart already from the first book Bright Side, he was just the one who fit in that one part of my shattered heart to fill it with hope...
and what I got from him was more - as he calls it redemption, it was a road much needed to feel whole again and to heal..to come to a point where LOSS is NOT a LACK but a JOINT PART, a NOTION that you go on LIVING and the memory stays with you as long as you feed it - with the fulfillment of the promise, of expectation, of hope...love can only grow on love...and that's what Scout was for Gus
I loved the different point of view on scars...that had a special, special meaning for me - you see, there are scars on the outside and scars on the inside, and people wear them differently...those that are NOT visible are coming out through out their actions and thoughts....but those who have them on the outside are in double danger of having been scared on the inside as well....
although we like to consider ourselves as being above superficial things like judging the others based solely on their appearences...we are actually failing in that department on an everyday basis...wheater we like to face it or not...
and GUS just completely blew me away with his actions towards Scout (who's wearing her outside scars but in fact learning to hide from people, being always in the backgrounds, in the shadows - Gus changes that!!!!)
Gus: "So basically what you're saying is I should tell all the doubt to fuck off, because I'm better than I think I am? That YOU see me differently than I see me?"
Scout: "Yes. That's exactly what I'm saying."
Gus: "That's exactly what I'm saying, too"
"You don't see the woman I see."
"Pretty girl. You're beautiful." Another kiss paints another scar. "Every," another kiss, "thing," another kiss, "about," another kiss, "you," this kiss falls lower on my neck, "is fucking perfect."
and that is what LOVING actually means, when LOVE actually makes sense as a feeling beyond describtion, what makes us larger than LIFE, that one moment in time, in this short life period we have, when you are MORE than you can be by making the one you love even greater...just two souls reaching out to each other in solace, in peace, in comfort, in love....
Dusti, my lovely partner in crime called BR-ing, thank you for being here with me on this journey....
July 2, 2016
I think Bright Side is a flawless book, so even though I was curious about what happens next with Gus, I was hesitant to read this continuation of the story. I mean, how does an author successfully follow up an emotional five-star read? I have no idea, but Kim Holden makes it look easy with Gus.
Scout is rigid and deeply scarred emotionally. She and Gus are like oil and water, but their transformation from enemies to friends is quite heartwarming. They help support each other as both try to live a fearless life full of joy and purpose.
If you’ve read the previous book you already know that Gus has the mouth of a sailor. The cursing shouldn’t come as a surprise, but prepare yourself for some serious steam. This book is about a thousand times sexier and hotter than Bright Side.
Once again Kim Holden proves herself to be a superb storyteller. Grief is a process, and the story unfolds at a leisurely pace that is realistic and satisfying. There are no plot twists, no forced drama just for the sake of angst, but this book has all the feels! I couldn’t ask for a more perfect conclusion.
Recommended for fans of:
Emotional stories
Rock star romance
Survivors
“How do you go back to what you did before, when the other half of you is gone forever?”Gus is barely coping after his devastating loss. His pain is palpable, raw and very real, and it’s difficult to see this once vibrant and carefree man struggling to find his way again. Fortunately, the majority of the book is uplifting. Gus is every bit as wonderful—funny, talented, sensitive and loyal—as he was in the previous book. He loves with his entire heart, body, and soul, and I defy you not to fall in love with him more and more.
Scout is rigid and deeply scarred emotionally. She and Gus are like oil and water, but their transformation from enemies to friends is quite heartwarming. They help support each other as both try to live a fearless life full of joy and purpose.
If you’ve read the previous book you already know that Gus has the mouth of a sailor. The cursing shouldn’t come as a surprise, but prepare yourself for some serious steam. This book is about a thousand times sexier and hotter than Bright Side.
Once again Kim Holden proves herself to be a superb storyteller. Grief is a process, and the story unfolds at a leisurely pace that is realistic and satisfying. There are no plot twists, no forced drama just for the sake of angst, but this book has all the feels! I couldn’t ask for a more perfect conclusion.
Recommended for fans of:
Emotional stories
Rock star romance
Survivors
October 27, 2017
3,5 tan 4... 3 versem az, 4 versem ilk kitaba haksızlık 🤔
Dürüst olmak gerekirse ilk kitap kadar muhteşem değildi. Gus’ı çok seviyordum, bu kitapta da sevmeye devam ettim. Ama Scout çok sevdiğim bir karakter olamadı malesef. Başlardaki kendine güvensizlik ötesi ezik hali beni pek memnun etmedi. Ki ben ilk kitapta Gus-Kate ilişkisinden yana değildim, Kate’in eşi benim için hep Keller oldu. Buna rağmen Scout’la Gus ilişkisi beni mutlu etmedi. Gus’ın 2 yıl içinde yaşadıkları, inişleri, dibi görmesi, sonra kendini yine müzikle iyileştirmesi, eski haline geri dönmeye çalışması ve efsane yaratması... hepsini çok sevdim.
Tüm bunlara rağmen bazı yerlerde de sıkıldım, bölümlerde zaman hızlı geçse de sanki bir türlü konuya gelemiyormuşuz gibi hissettim. İlk kitapta yoğunluğa rağmen çok akıcıydı hikaye, bunda zaman zaman tıkandı sanki.
Veeee tabi ki yine Kate’in olduğu kısımları zor okudum, yine boğazım düğümlendi, gözlerim doldu. Özellikle Gus için doldurduğu cd kısmını zor okudum. Kate karakteri kesinlikle yazar için çok özel gibi hissediyorum, inanılmaz duygu yoğunluğuyla yazıyor onunla ilgili bölümleri.
Keller’ın yeni hayatından son durumlar da vardı ama benim için yetmedi, Gus gibi onunda yeniden aşık olmasını, yeniden mutlu olmasını okumak isterdim.
Kısacası ilk kitabın etkisiyle okumam gerektiğini düşündüğüm, tek başına çok anlam ifade etmeyen ama ilk kitapla birleştiğinde biraz daha güzelleşen bir hikayeydi. Ya da ilk kitap o kadar yoğun geldi ki bana bu kitap ilkinin yanında sönük kaldı benim için.
Dürüst olmak gerekirse ilk kitap kadar muhteşem değildi. Gus’ı çok seviyordum, bu kitapta da sevmeye devam ettim. Ama Scout çok sevdiğim bir karakter olamadı malesef. Başlardaki kendine güvensizlik ötesi ezik hali beni pek memnun etmedi. Ki ben ilk kitapta Gus-Kate ilişkisinden yana değildim, Kate’in eşi benim için hep Keller oldu. Buna rağmen Scout’la Gus ilişkisi beni mutlu etmedi. Gus’ın 2 yıl içinde yaşadıkları, inişleri, dibi görmesi, sonra kendini yine müzikle iyileştirmesi, eski haline geri dönmeye çalışması ve efsane yaratması... hepsini çok sevdim.
Tüm bunlara rağmen bazı yerlerde de sıkıldım, bölümlerde zaman hızlı geçse de sanki bir türlü konuya gelemiyormuşuz gibi hissettim. İlk kitapta yoğunluğa rağmen çok akıcıydı hikaye, bunda zaman zaman tıkandı sanki.
Veeee tabi ki yine Kate’in olduğu kısımları zor okudum, yine boğazım düğümlendi, gözlerim doldu. Özellikle Gus için doldurduğu cd kısmını zor okudum. Kate karakteri kesinlikle yazar için çok özel gibi hissediyorum, inanılmaz duygu yoğunluğuyla yazıyor onunla ilgili bölümleri.
Keller’ın yeni hayatından son durumlar da vardı ama benim için yetmedi, Gus gibi onunda yeniden aşık olmasını, yeniden mutlu olmasını okumak isterdim.
Kısacası ilk kitabın etkisiyle okumam gerektiğini düşündüğüm, tek başına çok anlam ifade etmeyen ama ilk kitapla birleştiğinde biraz daha güzelleşen bir hikayeydi. Ya da ilk kitap o kadar yoğun geldi ki bana bu kitap ilkinin yanında sönük kaldı benim için.
September 1, 2016
Originally posted on Three Little Birds Book Blog.
When I read Kim Holden’s books I feel like she’s writing to me and me alone. I feel connected to the story as if it’s mine. That’s her gift, and I’ll cherish it as long as she decides to write because her work makes me better. 'Bright Side' was one of the most emotional books I’ve ever read…fuck that, it was the most emotional book I’ve ever read and it made me question my life and choices more so than any other art piece has before. 'Gus' was the same. It didn’t strip me raw like 'Bright Side' did (thank Jesus, because I didn’t have anything left), but it impacted me just as deeply. It was emotionally charged, but it was truly the balm I needed for the gaping wound that 'Bright Side' left in my soul.
'Gus' was my most anticipated read of the year. I’ve been waiting for his story since I closed 'Bright Side'. The way we left him…his anguish, the sheer devastation of his grief as he faced the horrible prospect of continuing life without his soul mate, his best friend, his bright sun, his everything. To say it was heartbreaking would be a fucking gross understatement. He was a wreck, I was a wreck, it was a mess. It was amazing. So of course, I was dying for his story. I needed to see him whole again as I would a dear friend. I bonded with this character, and I ached for his happiness.
His journey was a hard one, and I was in a state of constant anxiety as I watched him battle through his grief. In the beginning of 'Gus', I ached so much for him as he made some devastating choices in order to bear the pain. His actions were reckless, but they were honest. His grief was a living, breathing thing, and it consumed his whole being. Kim Holden portrayed the total devastation that someone feels when they lose someone they love perfectly. She didn’t hold back, but then she couldn’t hold back, because we knew how much Bright Side meant to Gus, so she had to honor her memory and show the great impact that she had on the people she left behind.
Gus is an artist, so he’s a sensitive soul and he gives life everything he has, and when life hits him, every part of him is bruised. I must say, I loved this part of the story. No, I’m not into people’s pain, but c’mon, Gus is the epitome of the broken rock star, and unlike other rock star stories where you only get a hint of what they’ve been through, you know Gus’ full story, so you feel the full impact. Knowing who Gus really is makes his transformation from sweet, lovable rock star, to brooding, sexy rock god that much more amazing. Commence the swooning.
While Gus battled to come from under his dark cloud, he also had to deal with Scout MacKenzie. The record label assigned her as Gus’ assistant, and Gus couldn't fucking stand it. I. Loved. Scout. From the moment Gus laid eyes on her and nicknamed her Impatient, I knew that their story would be epic. He thought that she was cold and judgmental, and she thought that he was a spoiled rock star asshole. I was grinning like a damned fool. Not because I was jonesing for Gus to fall in love (I still wasn’t ready to let go of Bright Side), but because I knew that what he needed was a friend who would tell him to his face that he needed to get his shit together.
With a mix of a lot humor and tolerable emotional angst (and smoking hot sexual tension!), Holden built a friendship between Gus and Scout. They were both dealing with heartbreak and, even though they didn’t know it, their reluctant friendship helped them heal. And isn’t that just exactly what it’s all about? Kim Holden showed me once again that what is important in life is building true and honest relationships with good people. Not with perfect people, since that’s not real, but with people who look at you and see you, and still love you. People who feel your hurt and cry for you. People who try with everything they have to make you smile.
I think that Kim Holden is that kind of person. I believe that with her writing she’s acknowledging that she sees us all and she loves us. I think she knows that we hurt, and she hurts with us. I know that she tries to make us smile, even if in order to do that, she has to make us cry first. And yes, 'Gus' will make you smile. By the end of this story, I was smiling so big and so bright. She creates these stories with these characters that are so very identifiable, so that we’ll see ourselves when we read about them, and we’ll have the courage to live to be happy too. Some might call that cheesy, but do you know what I say? Cheese is delicious.
Read 'Gus' and feel fulfilled. You don’t have to read 'Bright Side' first, because it can stand on its own, but why wouldn’t you want some Bright Side in your life. It just makes 'Gus' that much better. That’s it though, isn’t it? The pain makes the pleasure so much sweeter.
Connect with Three Little Birds Book Blog:
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When I read Kim Holden’s books I feel like she’s writing to me and me alone. I feel connected to the story as if it’s mine. That’s her gift, and I’ll cherish it as long as she decides to write because her work makes me better. 'Bright Side' was one of the most emotional books I’ve ever read…fuck that, it was the most emotional book I’ve ever read and it made me question my life and choices more so than any other art piece has before. 'Gus' was the same. It didn’t strip me raw like 'Bright Side' did (thank Jesus, because I didn’t have anything left), but it impacted me just as deeply. It was emotionally charged, but it was truly the balm I needed for the gaping wound that 'Bright Side' left in my soul.
'Gus' was my most anticipated read of the year. I’ve been waiting for his story since I closed 'Bright Side'. The way we left him…his anguish, the sheer devastation of his grief as he faced the horrible prospect of continuing life without his soul mate, his best friend, his bright sun, his everything. To say it was heartbreaking would be a fucking gross understatement. He was a wreck, I was a wreck, it was a mess. It was amazing. So of course, I was dying for his story. I needed to see him whole again as I would a dear friend. I bonded with this character, and I ached for his happiness.
His journey was a hard one, and I was in a state of constant anxiety as I watched him battle through his grief. In the beginning of 'Gus', I ached so much for him as he made some devastating choices in order to bear the pain. His actions were reckless, but they were honest. His grief was a living, breathing thing, and it consumed his whole being. Kim Holden portrayed the total devastation that someone feels when they lose someone they love perfectly. She didn’t hold back, but then she couldn’t hold back, because we knew how much Bright Side meant to Gus, so she had to honor her memory and show the great impact that she had on the people she left behind.
Gus is an artist, so he’s a sensitive soul and he gives life everything he has, and when life hits him, every part of him is bruised. I must say, I loved this part of the story. No, I’m not into people’s pain, but c’mon, Gus is the epitome of the broken rock star, and unlike other rock star stories where you only get a hint of what they’ve been through, you know Gus’ full story, so you feel the full impact. Knowing who Gus really is makes his transformation from sweet, lovable rock star, to brooding, sexy rock god that much more amazing. Commence the swooning.
While Gus battled to come from under his dark cloud, he also had to deal with Scout MacKenzie. The record label assigned her as Gus’ assistant, and Gus couldn't fucking stand it. I. Loved. Scout. From the moment Gus laid eyes on her and nicknamed her Impatient, I knew that their story would be epic. He thought that she was cold and judgmental, and she thought that he was a spoiled rock star asshole. I was grinning like a damned fool. Not because I was jonesing for Gus to fall in love (I still wasn’t ready to let go of Bright Side), but because I knew that what he needed was a friend who would tell him to his face that he needed to get his shit together.
With a mix of a lot humor and tolerable emotional angst (and smoking hot sexual tension!), Holden built a friendship between Gus and Scout. They were both dealing with heartbreak and, even though they didn’t know it, their reluctant friendship helped them heal. And isn’t that just exactly what it’s all about? Kim Holden showed me once again that what is important in life is building true and honest relationships with good people. Not with perfect people, since that’s not real, but with people who look at you and see you, and still love you. People who feel your hurt and cry for you. People who try with everything they have to make you smile.
I think that Kim Holden is that kind of person. I believe that with her writing she’s acknowledging that she sees us all and she loves us. I think she knows that we hurt, and she hurts with us. I know that she tries to make us smile, even if in order to do that, she has to make us cry first. And yes, 'Gus' will make you smile. By the end of this story, I was smiling so big and so bright. She creates these stories with these characters that are so very identifiable, so that we’ll see ourselves when we read about them, and we’ll have the courage to live to be happy too. Some might call that cheesy, but do you know what I say? Cheese is delicious.
Read 'Gus' and feel fulfilled. You don’t have to read 'Bright Side' first, because it can stand on its own, but why wouldn’t you want some Bright Side in your life. It just makes 'Gus' that much better. That’s it though, isn’t it? The pain makes the pleasure so much sweeter.
Connect with Three Little Birds Book Blog:
Blog ∣ Facebook ∣ Twitter
February 5, 2018
1.5 y por la sombra de Bright side que aún persiste algo en esta 2° parte. Si no fuera por eso, probablemente lo hubiera abandonado.
Estoy super cabreada e indignada. En primer lugar el libro está plagado de errores de edición o impresión. Que sí, que somos humanos y podemos equivocarnos, pero se puede pasar una vez o dos, no más.
Y en segundo lugar, el tema de la traducción que es pésima. En mi opinión este libro es un claro ejemplo de como se te puede joder una lectura por culpa de una mala traducción.
También algo que me ha descolocado totalmente es el hecho de que no he sido capaz de comprender en lo que la autora ha convertido el personaje de Gus.
En el libro 1° él me gustó más que Keller incluso, y ahora aquí me lo pinta como un guarro que se ducha bastante poco y que acostumbra a ponerse los calzoncillos sucios de una semana.
Sinceramente, me cuesta enamorarme de un personaje con esos hábitos. Y además, la autora no menciona su escasa higiene una sola vez, el caso es que lo hace constantemente.
Y no me sirve eso de que estaba deprimido.
Querida Kim Holden, la gente deprimida se ducha, por si no lo sabías.
Y con respecto a ella, tampoco me ha parecido un personaje a resaltar, ni he creído a uno ni he creído al otro. Mas fría que un hielo me han dejado.
Me da bastante pena lo que me ha pasado con este libro, pero tengo que ser sincera conmigo misma y reconocer que ha sido un chasco total.
Estoy super cabreada e indignada. En primer lugar el libro está plagado de errores de edición o impresión. Que sí, que somos humanos y podemos equivocarnos, pero se puede pasar una vez o dos, no más.
Y en segundo lugar, el tema de la traducción que es pésima. En mi opinión este libro es un claro ejemplo de como se te puede joder una lectura por culpa de una mala traducción.
También algo que me ha descolocado totalmente es el hecho de que no he sido capaz de comprender en lo que la autora ha convertido el personaje de Gus.
En el libro 1° él me gustó más que Keller incluso, y ahora aquí me lo pinta como un guarro que se ducha bastante poco y que acostumbra a ponerse los calzoncillos sucios de una semana.
Sinceramente, me cuesta enamorarme de un personaje con esos hábitos. Y además, la autora no menciona su escasa higiene una sola vez, el caso es que lo hace constantemente.
Y no me sirve eso de que estaba deprimido.
Querida Kim Holden, la gente deprimida se ducha, por si no lo sabías.
Y con respecto a ella, tampoco me ha parecido un personaje a resaltar, ni he creído a uno ni he creído al otro. Mas fría que un hielo me han dejado.
Me da bastante pena lo que me ha pasado con este libro, pero tengo que ser sincera conmigo misma y reconocer que ha sido un chasco total.
May 21, 2015
I don't even know where to begin.
Obviously, we open with Gus, Katie's BFF, who is lost without her. He is adrift. Kim Holden takes us on a journey of grief, the road traveled by those left behind when a loved one leaves us. It's not pretty. But it's real. As a reader, I rolled through the pain with Gus, I felt it deep inside as if it were my own. I felt his torture. I hit rock bottom with him.
But I also rose from the ashes with him.
Is this book Bright Side? No, it isn't. It is the book that shows us what Bright Side meant...because doing epic isn't always easy. It's a choice. And Gus had to learn to choose...
There are not enough wonderful things that I can say about this book. KH is just...gah. She's amazing. The characters are so well developed and the emotion she draws us unreal. I laughed and cried repeatedly throughout. There was so much love in this book. It is a must read!!!
Don't miss out on this book. It is amazing!!!
Obviously, we open with Gus, Katie's BFF, who is lost without her. He is adrift. Kim Holden takes us on a journey of grief, the road traveled by those left behind when a loved one leaves us. It's not pretty. But it's real. As a reader, I rolled through the pain with Gus, I felt it deep inside as if it were my own. I felt his torture. I hit rock bottom with him.
But I also rose from the ashes with him.
Is this book Bright Side? No, it isn't. It is the book that shows us what Bright Side meant...because doing epic isn't always easy. It's a choice. And Gus had to learn to choose...
There are not enough wonderful things that I can say about this book. KH is just...gah. She's amazing. The characters are so well developed and the emotion she draws us unreal. I laughed and cried repeatedly throughout. There was so much love in this book. It is a must read!!!
Don't miss out on this book. It is amazing!!!
May 31, 2015
5 I Only Do Epic Stars
Firstly you can call me Mrs Hawthorne because Gus owns my heart body and soul.
I FLOVE him with everything that I am,
A week later and I'm still in a funk, I'm really not ready to let go, I don't think EVER.
Going through Gus's heartache was like you were right there beside him,
You felt the his pain weave throughout your whole body, and you couldn't help but just cry with him, for him.
From about 4% of the Kim Holden had me on my knees , the tears flowed and I just wanted to crawl into the book and wrap Gus in my ams and love him forever.
There was a certain scene and I was hoping he wouldn't go down that certain road, no matter how much pain he was in, I wanted better for him, yes he snapped out of it but it broke my heart for half a second. But I do love how Kim bought certain things into the story because it makes you realise that people cope with things the best way they think they should at the time, even if they are hurting themselves in the process.
His journey to find himself again was just so beautiful to read, it wasn't fast it was slow and we needed that because he was going through so much, that if he had healed at the blink of an eye it would of took away the beauty from Bright Side and I'm so glad Kim gave us that, she broke my heart but then she healed it again over a thousand times.
I loved the relationship between Gus & his mom, she was always his rock,
&I'm glad she got her happy ever after she deserved it so much.
Scout I absolutely ADORED I loved her so much,
She was the cure Gus needed, but before that she had to heal herself, she had to go through the motions of finding who she was, what she wanted out of life and also letting herself open up to love, and when she did boy was she FIRE, Scout had a little naughty side to her that I just LOVED LOVED, but who wouldn't when you had a male like Gus, I'm telling you now I would always have my panties in my purse for that man ALWAYS ha!!
One other thing before I move on, what I LOVED about what Kim did with Scout's character was she wasn't jealous not in the slightest even though she knew Gus's feelings about certain things, and honestly that's what makes her one of my favourite heroines.
Witnessing Gus and Scouts relationship develop was just so magical,
Like Hazel Grace quoted "I fell in love the way you fall asleep, slowly, and then all at once"
That was Gus & Scout and I loved every second,
Gus was one SEXY SEXY piece of HOTNESS in the bedroom & outside of it,
it was like WOW Gus you can come and love me like that any day of the week.
There was one scene and the way Gus made love to Scout was just so beautiful to read, honestly when he loves he gives you his all, I swear you can FEEL every bit of that mans love all the way down to your toes.
God I do FLOVE him.
I can keep on writing and writing about all the little things I loved about this book,
But then I'd be giving you EVERYTHING and that wouldn't be fair, I want you to go into this book and come out feeling the way I have felt.
I want you to LOVE Gus the way I do, because you don't know love until you meet this man,
He will capture your heart and never let it go, he will sink into your soul, and reside there for a lifetime. And I'm telling you that's all you want from him, because honestly he is EVERYTHING.
Kim Holden, my beautiful lady,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing Gus, il love you forever for this gift.
Just like Kate, Gus is in my heart forever.
Firstly you can call me Mrs Hawthorne because Gus owns my heart body and soul.
I FLOVE him with everything that I am,
A week later and I'm still in a funk, I'm really not ready to let go, I don't think EVER.
Going through Gus's heartache was like you were right there beside him,
You felt the his pain weave throughout your whole body, and you couldn't help but just cry with him, for him.
From about 4% of the Kim Holden had me on my knees , the tears flowed and I just wanted to crawl into the book and wrap Gus in my ams and love him forever.
There was a certain scene and I was hoping he wouldn't go down that certain road, no matter how much pain he was in, I wanted better for him, yes he snapped out of it but it broke my heart for half a second. But I do love how Kim bought certain things into the story because it makes you realise that people cope with things the best way they think they should at the time, even if they are hurting themselves in the process.
His journey to find himself again was just so beautiful to read, it wasn't fast it was slow and we needed that because he was going through so much, that if he had healed at the blink of an eye it would of took away the beauty from Bright Side and I'm so glad Kim gave us that, she broke my heart but then she healed it again over a thousand times.
I loved the relationship between Gus & his mom, she was always his rock,
&I'm glad she got her happy ever after she deserved it so much.
Scout I absolutely ADORED I loved her so much,
She was the cure Gus needed, but before that she had to heal herself, she had to go through the motions of finding who she was, what she wanted out of life and also letting herself open up to love, and when she did boy was she FIRE, Scout had a little naughty side to her that I just LOVED LOVED, but who wouldn't when you had a male like Gus, I'm telling you now I would always have my panties in my purse for that man ALWAYS ha!!
One other thing before I move on, what I LOVED about what Kim did with Scout's character was she wasn't jealous not in the slightest even though she knew Gus's feelings about certain things, and honestly that's what makes her one of my favourite heroines.
Witnessing Gus and Scouts relationship develop was just so magical,
Like Hazel Grace quoted "I fell in love the way you fall asleep, slowly, and then all at once"
That was Gus & Scout and I loved every second,
Gus was one SEXY SEXY piece of HOTNESS in the bedroom & outside of it,
it was like WOW Gus you can come and love me like that any day of the week.
There was one scene and the way Gus made love to Scout was just so beautiful to read, honestly when he loves he gives you his all, I swear you can FEEL every bit of that mans love all the way down to your toes.
God I do FLOVE him.
I can keep on writing and writing about all the little things I loved about this book,
But then I'd be giving you EVERYTHING and that wouldn't be fair, I want you to go into this book and come out feeling the way I have felt.
I want you to LOVE Gus the way I do, because you don't know love until you meet this man,
He will capture your heart and never let it go, he will sink into your soul, and reside there for a lifetime. And I'm telling you that's all you want from him, because honestly he is EVERYTHING.
Kim Holden, my beautiful lady,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for writing Gus, il love you forever for this gift.
Just like Kate, Gus is in my heart forever.
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