Reading · The Bright Side with Bri Nwosu

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The Launch (Fifteen Days In)

We’re officially fifteen days out from the launch of The Wondrous Life and Loves of Nella Carter, and it still feels a little surreal to say that sentence.

I’m sharing a still image below from the virtual launch event, along with the link to the recording if you’d like to watch it. (Passcode: QWT&cTR2)

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It was a true highlight to be able to celebrate with friends and family from all over, especially knowing how many people have been part of this journey behind the scenes over the three years it took to bring this book to fruition.

The virtual book tour is still underway, so I’ve also included the remaining dates here. I’ll be honest — it’s been a whirlwind, but a really good one.

One of the most grounding parts of this phase has been seeing the book out in the world and starting to receive early reviews and accolades. The one I’m the most proud of? Having Nella recognized by Booklist as an Editor's Choice for 2025!

Also, there has been such kind, positive feedback and early reviews.

“This was an amazing read! The thought of proving to Death that there is good in this world took Nella on a several-century trek, proving to Death that there are good people in this world...This novel pulled me in and didn’t let go, and I was sad to see the story end. Life is messy, but who’s to say what life is worth saving? We give this book 5 paws up.” - Storeybook Reviews

“So imaginative and immersive it made two hours in a waiting room feel like two minutes. This has been a year of standout reads for me, so I do not say this lightly: Brionni Nwosu is a debut author with a brilliant future ahead, and The Wondrous Life and Loves of Nella Carter is a novel that will live long in the memory of all who read it. If it hasn’t already been optioned, HBO, Netflix, Amazon—someone needs to grab this one fast before the bidding war begins.” - Red Reviews 4 You

“Brionni Nwosu is an exciting debut author who has beautifully captured love and beauty in all their glory in 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙇𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙉𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙚𝙧. With its reminiscent themes of 𝙁𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙩 and his deal with the devil, Nella’s bargain with Death goes far beyond simple comparison and reaches a realm of its own greatness. Nwosu’s detailed storytelling and lyrical prose raise deep questions: How would you confront your own challenges with love, life, death, and immortality?” - Black, Biracial, and Bookish

If you haven’t gotten your copy, you can always get it through Kindle Unlimited here.

You can also enter the Goodreads giveaway for a chance at a free Kindle copy that runs through the end of December 2025.

Website Refresh (🤩🥰🥳)

Another highlight from the past week: my website got a full refresh!

The incredibly talented Maite Dalila reworked the layout, flow, and structure, and the site now feels clean, intentional, and much easier to move through. If you’re curious about thoughtful UX and design — especially for writers — I really recommend looking at her work.

You can see the updated site here, and you can find Maite’s work here. (You should see her work and sign on up, no joke!)

Check out this before and after! I made some of these changes on the left and here is the refreshed and streamlined on the right!

Take a look through! What do you think of the changes?

Looking Ahead to January & 2026 Planning

Planning for What’s Next

As we head toward the end of the year, I’ve been doing a lot of planning for 2026.

I recently came across a video by Stephthefounder about the Harada Method, which breaks big goals into clear, specific categories. The video example references Shohei Ohtani and the intentional mapping of his growth over time. I’m linking it here in case it’s useful or interesting to you.

Using that framework, I put together my own 2026 plan. It’s ambitious, but I’m using these final two weeks of the year — plus a little time off around Christmas — to start turning plans into actual systems and habits.

Here is a template you can use if you’d like to try it!

For example, one commitment I’m testing is a bi-weekly Substack. The goal is simple: regular updates on the writing life, the publishing process, and what I’m working on in real time. That’s why you’re getting this today.

Think January 1st, January 15th — steady, realistic, and sustainable. This post is essentially my practice round.

Reading, Work, and Life

Over the break, I’ll also be doing a lot of reading. I’m currently rereading Remarkably Bright Creatures, one of my favorite books from 2024, in preparation for an upcoming book club this Saturday.

The discussion will be hosted by Danielle Ouedraogo, host of THE Virtual Bookclub for Black Women, who also hosted my virtual book launch, and I’m really looking forward to revisiting the book with fresh eyes.

Another book on the list is The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley.

On the personal side, it’s that familiar end-of-year sprint: wrapping up work, preparing for an upcoming trip, and navigating the final flurry of elementary school spirit days — Grinch Day, Pajama Day, Red and White Day — all of which somehow require advance planning and shopping.

We also had a really lovely family breakfast this past weekend with my mom and bonus mom, and it felt like a good reminder to pause and enjoy this season as it’s happening.

Your turn . . . I’m curious about . . .

As I map out 2026, I’d love to know what you’re curious about.

If you’re a writer, what parts of the process would you want to see more of — drafting, revision, planning, pitching, balancing writing with life?

If you’re a reader, what kind of behind-the-scenes glimpses are most interesting to you?

Feel free to reply or comment. I’m looking forward to sharing more as the new year begins.

Happy Reading and Writing
— Bri