BRIGHT

Five and a half years after the events of Shine (2020), Rachel Kim is a full-fledged international superstar.

As part of the nine-member group Girls Forever, she’s topping charts, touring internationally, and garnering a devoted fan base. While they may be at the top of their game, it’s not too early to lay the groundwork for the future. With ambitions for her own fashion line and a secret romance with fellow Korean American Alex Jeon, Rachel might have things figured out, but she must be sensitive when it comes to management company DB Entertainment and her band mates. She’s determined not to let individual drama sabotage the group, but is everyone on the same page? With Rachel’s having successfully graduated from the trainee system, this sequel focuses more on business machinations as tremendous fame raises the stakes, highlighting the dark side of industry expectations and tenuous public support. Her instant connection with Alex makes it extremely hard for Rachel not to be reckless despite the high risks, especially for female idols. While Rachel believes she is a conscientious group member, she can be unaware of the unintentionally hurtful effects of her actions. Readers’ awareness of other characters’ motivations is limited by Rachel’s first-person narration and self-focus; those interested in relationship dynamics may be left wanting further nuance, but anyone tuning in for more about Rachel’s trajectory will enjoy her twists, turns, and personal triumphs.

A glitzy sequel filled with drama and self-discovery.