The book gets off of a slow start but definitely starts gaining speed after the 20% mark! I love myself a cute palette cleanser and on top of it all it has a cute cover!

Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the E-ARC . "I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own." I very much enjoyed the story of Georgina and Kelsey. Two women who are taking the summer by storm and saying Yes to "everything" This story was very much relatable how we sometimes get so involved in Life that we forget to live we say no to everything and we forget to stop and smell the roses. I loved that the story really focused on the regrets of both women even though Georgina really tested my patience at times.

3.5 ⭐️ rounded up

If you’re looking for your next easy summer beach read, this is it! It was a quick read and I enjoyed it overall.

I did find the swapping of Kelsey and Georgina’s voices in their own chapters choppy, especially the first half of the book when it wasn’t abundantly clear who was talking.

I loved the pop culture references and Georgina’s Miranda Priestley style snark and the way Kelsey fired back at her in a way Andy Sachs would have never done. In my mind Georgina was Miranda and that made me smile.

Quotes I loved:

“I have  .  .  . people,” I protest lamely. “I just didn’t want to bother them.” She muses. “Mm-hmm. Then you don’t have the right kind of people.”

“I don’t want to sit in this office anymore. I want to explore the world. To search for stories. To find people whose lives are extraordinary and write about them. And in my free time, I want to write stories that make me laugh. Romantic comedies that will make the world feel a little lighter because the world can be heavy and hard. I want to bring people joy.”

“I’m still going to hope,” he says. “Hope is never a bad thing.”

——

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

I loved this book! This was one of the stories that has me feeling like I can’t properly put into words exactly WHY I enjoyed it so much, but I know I did.
I found myself relating to Kelsey in regards to her personal life. And Georgina Tate? Talk about a spunky woman. She was definitely giving Miranda Priestly vibes! Her stubborn attitude got frustrating at times, but Kelsey stayed determined to break down her walls. The banter between these two women kept me laughing. I would definitely read them fussing with each other all day. A hilarious duo!
Hayden is to be protected at all costs. No exceptions. A completely selfless and sweet human being. He kept Kelsey grounded and reminded her that she was brave and capable, but also made sure she knew he was right there if she needed him.

Thank you to NetGalley for the early edition of this novel! This book was so delicious!! It took a few chapters for me to get hooked, but once they started the road trip I was invested. The dry humor is too funny and my family kept asking what I was laughing at as I laughed while reading.

The beauty of forgiveness, new friendships, saying yes to scary things, and the beginning of new love was beautiful. I loved this book and all the things it represented in saying yes to things that you might not normally say yes to. A great read!

“My eyes are wide open to the sights, sounds, and smells around me. The world is bright and colorful. It’s tinged with sweet and spicy. It’s loud and vibrant. And I’ve been walking around like Dorthy before she lands in Oz- settling for faded black and white.”

“Be fearless, mera priya,” she says “The world needs your voice.”

“It’s a wild and precious life, Kelsey. If you have something that sets your soul on fire, you have a responsibility to chase that thing.”

“And I start to feel a tiny spark of something way down deep. Something familiar, but lost. Something that feels a lot like joy.”

“Her belief in me has given me wings.”

“ ‘The other thing I’ve learned, and I want you all to listen closely is that life is… good and wonderful. And horrible, and beautiful, and messy, and everything all at once. And that is the beauty of it. It’s overwhelming, but it’s never blaring. And it should be loved to the fullest. It doesn’t mean a house in the Hampton or a promotion at work. It means filling your life with the people you love doing the things that make you feel the most alive.’ As she speaks I let them resonate. I think about how I’ve hidden myself away to avoid the emotional roller coaster of a messy life for so many years thinking it would keep me safe. It didn’t keep me safe… if only kept me lonely. Yes, it’s risky to feel things. And it’s risky to hope for good. And it’s hard to say yes to the unknown. And it doesn’t always result in wonderful memories. But that’s what it means to be alive.”

I enjoyed this book but it maybe wasn't my favorite by Courtney Walsh. I thought the idea was fun and the characters were mediocre. It was an okay read. Not too deep. I was engaged enough to want to keep reading and see how it was going to end but I also wasn't anxious to get back to it.

One of the things I really enjoy about Courtney Walsh's writing is that her stories are typically so realistic and relatable. And while there were a lot of realistic and relatable moments, there was also some areas that were a little far-fetched.

I did have a bit of a hard time with the characters in this story. I found Georgina to be so unlikable it almost took away from the story. I can appreciate a grumpy older person but Georgina kept boarding on mean and never really changed even at the end of the book. And Kelsey was kind of contradicting. On one had she comes across as work-a-holic push-over, but then she is very assertive and pushy with Georgina. Pushy to the point of being forceful. I feel like if Georgina had been a little less stand-offish and rude then Kelsey's pushiness wouldn't have come across as so aggressive.

It also seemed like it took a while to really get into the story or for it to really go anywhere. There were some really nice moments but also a lot of repetition. I liked the idea of the plot but just kept wishing it had been done a little differently. I wish there would have been more adventure or spontaneity.

I think the overall message of the story is great as far as being more open to saying yes and while I appreciate a fun, light-hearted read, I wish this would have had a little more depth. If you're looking for a very light read without any expectations then it's fine, but overall this was just an okay read for me. I just finished My Lucky Charm (also by Courney Walsh) and felt like that was a much better story with better developed characters and story depth.

I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishers through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was such a feel good romance and one thing I really liked is that it's not just a romance between two people, it's also a book about life, about happiness and how it doesn't always go the way we want it. I got so invested in Kelsey and Hayden and you can't help but get attached to Georgina even though she is a stubborn old mule. This is the perfect summer read, it has funny moments, has a great road trip and it is the kind of book you read and can't help reflecting on your own life wondering if it is the life you really wanted or not.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Love love love this book!! The character development, the town of driftwood, the twists and turns throughout, a closed door rom com…yes please! It was so good. I loved the theme throughout of saying yes even when it’s easier to say no. It’s just not worth it holding yourself back from doing special things with those you love in life, we’re only here for a short time! Amazing characters, setting, and premise. So enjoyed it!!! Wish I could pay a visit to driftwood because it sounds dreamy 😆

Thank you via Thomas Nelson Fiction via NetGalley for this arc!!

The Summer of Yes started out slow for me when Kelsey Worthington, a wannabe writer, is hit by a car in New York City and finds herself in the same room with Georgina Tate, a legendary New York business woman! Georgina is a snob and Kelsey lets people push her around! Everything changes when Kelsey befriends Georgina and convinces her that they need to spend the summer saying yes to new adventures! Life changes for both of them. My favorite quote was Georgina saying "Life should be lived to the fullest....filling your life with the people you love doing the things that make you feel the most alive." I recommend this contemporary book by Courtney Walsh to others. I received a complimentary e-book through NetGalley. This is my honest opinion.

4.5 ⭐️

This is exactly the summery book I needed. “The Summer of Yes” was nothing short of an incredible read. The characters, friendships, and relationships were perfect to me.

The small bits of romance that we got in this book were so sweet. I would have loved to see more, but the pieces we got were heartwarming nonetheless.

I will say that this book had a slower start. Even though it was a little slower at the beginning, I was still immediately hooked by the book’s concept. Just know that it does eventually start to pick up once they embark on their summer of yes, and it’ll be so worth it to continue reading.

The overall lesson of this book was very impactful. Sometimes you need a change of pace, and that may often mean saying yes to the things you’d normally say no to. Also, yes you should say yes to picking up this book this summer. You won’t regret it. 😉

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for an arc of my new favorite summer read!!

If I could give this more than five stars, I would. "The Summer of Yes" by Courtney Walsh is a delightful and heartwarming novel that masterfully blends humor, romance, and personal growth into an unforgettable reading experience.

Walsh's storytelling shines as she introduces us to Kelsey Worthington, a relatable protagonist whose journey from self-doubt to self-discovery is both inspiring and entertaining. The chance encounter that brings Kelsey together with the formidable Georgina Tate sets the stage for a unique and compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The author's skill in character development is evident in the beautifully crafted relationship between Kelsey and Georgina. Their unlikely friendship, and witty banter, forms the heart of the story. Walsh deftly explores the generational differences and similarities between the two women, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives that adds depth to the narrative.

The concept of saying "yes" to new experiences is brilliantly executed, providing both humorous situations and poignant moments of self-reflection. Walsh strikes a perfect balance between light-hearted adventure and deeper emotional resonance, making the characters' personal transformations feel authentic and meaningful.

The romantic subplots are sweet and satisfying, adding another layer of charm to an already engaging narrative.

What truly sets "The Summer of Yes" apart is its great writing and exploration of themes such as regret, second chances, and the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone. Walsh delves into these issues with sensitivity and insight, offering readers not just entertainment but also food for thought.

The pacing is excellent, with a perfect mix of introspective moments and exciting new experiences keeping the story moving forward at an engaging clip. Walsh's prose is crisp and engaging, bringing the characters and their world to life with vivid detail.

"The Summer of Yes" is an uplifting, thoughtfully written novel that will appeal to fans of women's fiction, romance, and anyone who enjoys stories of personal growth and transformation. Courtney Walsh has crafted a tale that is not only entertaining but also inspiring, reminding us all of the magic that can happen when we open ourselves up to new possibilities.

A perfect example of what a great romance book can aspire to.

Courtney’s books are so wonderfully written - she’s an autobuy author for me! The premise of this one is intriguing. What would life look like if we said yes to all those things we declined in our lives because we previously prioritized work over people and experiences?

I love her characters, and this book has both heart and laugh-out-loud moments.

Thank you to the author, NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.

The girls’ summer road trip novel we all need this summer! Two strangers take to the road to try and broaden their horizons. Will they say “yes” to the new adventures, or settle back into what’s comfortable? While (re)making new and old connections along the way, it might be true that it is the friends you make along the way!

This author knows how to build characters! The deeply rich protagonists were so engrained in the story, even when I only knew them for the length of the book. The dual POV puts a great twist on the book, and helps you connect even further with the characters. I enjoyed their journey, if a bit long, to remind myself to accept new things and challenge myself this summer.

I was completely pulled into this story and simultaneously blown away by it. It is soooo good! I know I could find better adjectives to describe my feelings for it but it really is soooooooo good! I was hooked! I couldn't stop once I started. I loved Kelsey's character and her life evaluation after a brush with death. I felt the emotions with her and her desire to do better. One of my book besties was reading this after me and she messaged telling that she was ready to say "yes" to anything after reading this book! And let me tell you, you'll definitely be feeling that way as well. I loved how Kelsey was smart in her boundaries for what she said yes to but she was open to many possibilities for accepting good in her life that she had previously said no to or had not even thought about being open to. She saw how those decisions really narrowed down her life and caused her to have a lack of friends and anything outside of work.

I loved her connection with Georgina. Who is a hoot! An absolute hoot! But at the same time has also let several things pass her by in her life while pursuing work and her dreams! I loved the combination of Kelsey and Georgina! Their banter back and forth and their friendship was wonderful! It honestly made me think of a little bit of The Devil Wears Prada and the banter back and forth between the boss and the employee (can't remember names right now) but in a more positive way.

And yes, there is a love story...two love stories actually. Soooo good! There I go saying that again, but it's true! Sweet and messy and tender and beautiful are all good descriptive words for this book, the characters, the love stories and well, just everything! Definitely going on my favorites list and on my HIGHLY RECOMMEND list!!!

I read and listened to this one, it was soooo good!!! ;-) I loved the dual narration for Kelsey and Georgina's characters. Both narrators were spot on for their character. They brought out the emotions of the story and made it seem like they had a fun time bringing to life these characters. If you're an audiobook fan, you're going to love this one!!!

If you pick up one fun summer read this summer, let it be this one!!!

Content: Clean. Talk of death and trust and heartbreak and walking away and love. Nothing more than kisses and some clean marital talk between a married couple.

I received a digital copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson Fiction, via NetGalley. I also received a copy of the audiobook from the producer, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading & Listening!!!

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the Advanced Reader Copy!

I was hooked with just the cover of this novel...the summer sunset. The Thelma and Louise in a convertible vibes.

Kelsey and Georgina, an unlikely duo of a young woman recovering from an accident and an older woman with failing kidneys and a few months to live, set out on the adventure of a Summer of Yes. I wanted to like this book, based on the cover. But the pacing was slow, the relationships and romances were one dimensional, and I could not suspend belief of the way kidney failure was treated as someone who lost a family member to kidney failure.

This was a sweet book perfect for summer reading. Two women who meet unexpectedly go on an adventure to find what they really want out of their lives. Some romance woven in the story and well done.

Courtney Walsh is one of my auto-read authors, and she did not disappoint! Kelsey wakes up in a hospital after an accident. There she meets Georgina and the two form an unlikely friendship. This book is funny and sweet and just a delight! It’s more women’s fiction than romance, although there is some romance. Great read!

This was a really easy, lovely read and was quite enjoyable. While it was at times optimistic I also think I was slightly unrealistic and complicated issues seemed to be brushed over. that being said I enjoyed the book and would recommend this as a fun summer read.

Thank you to netgalley for a copy of this book.

The Summer of Yes

Loved!
Fast paced, tender, rooting for everyone,
Strong female characters, Kelsey and Georgina.

They’ve said no their whole lives and after an accident Kelsey finally leaves her job and decides on a summer of YES! She begs her hospital roommate and idol, Georgina to join her in a summer of reclaiming their lives and not being afraid to try different things. Georgina is rich, famous, and has worked extremely hard to become this iconic woman in the business world. Kelsey was following the same path, but at what cost? Neither of them have friends or a real life. That makes them reevaluate their lives and try something different. Only, Kelsey has other plans too. She’s hoping to rekindle a relationship between Georgina and someone she loves. These workaholics embark on a summer facing their regrets, fears, and love life.

I found this so endearing. I loved the wit, banter, sarcasm, light romance, but above all else the new friendship formed. This is more of a woman’s fiction vs contemporary romance. That said, I highly recommend this light, but heartfelt book!

This book took me a while to get into, but it had some truly beautiful and heartfelt moments, some self-reflection moments, and some moments where you just wonder where these Quinn men are hiding because I’d like to meet one.

Take Miranda Priestly from The Devil Wears Prada, and rename her Georgina Tate. Now imagine you wake up in the hospital, and she is your roommate, complaining that she has to be put in here with you. That is the scenario that Kelsey wakes up in. After being hit by a car, and somehow sustaining no major injuries, Kelsey takes a look at her life, and sees that Georgina’s life could very well be a prediction of her future; successful, but all alone. So, she asks Georgina if it was worth it. If it was worth the sacrifices that she must have made to get where she is today. And while Georgina says of course it was worth it, she can’t deny she had some regrets, and that she wished she had said “yes” more. And Kelsey feels the same way. So, she decides to cash in her vacation days, plays medical leave (she was just plowed over after all), and start saying “yes” to the things she would normally say “no” to. But she can’t stop thinking about Georgina, and insists that they do this together. And while it is easy in theory, putting it into practice requires some bravery, but it will all be worth it in the end.

I’ve never been hit by a car, so I can’t imagine what would be an appropriate reaction, but re-evaluating your life priorities seems like a good one. This was a cute story, though I wouldn’t classify it so much as a romance novel; yes, there was a hunky man who became a key player to the story, but it was more of a “women’s fiction” <- which, what a stupid classification. I’ve never seen something called “men’s fiction”. Sorry, I got distracted by the patriarchy. This book will be a great summer read, encouraging readers to say “yes” to what they really want more often.