
Member Reviews

Ugh, Courtney did it again…wrote a book that I felt so connected to and absolutely loved! And this was the first time I read a book where I shared a name with the main character, so that added even more love to this one from me!
Kelsey is an assistant editor whose life is disrupted when she is hit by a car while on her way to work. When she wakes up in the hospital, she finds that her roommate is none other than the legendary businesswoman Georgina Tate. But she soon notices that while Georgina is the very definition of success, she seems to be all alone. Kelsey begins to wonder if Georgina has any regrets and if she is looking at her future self if she continues on the workaholic path she is currently on. Or can she find a way to use this ‘Disruptor’ to make some major life changes…and so begins her ‘Summer of Yes’.
Again, I loved this story! I loved that Kelsey challenged herself to be bold, face her fears, and take some risks. I loved that Georgina spoke her mind and didn’t hold back. I love that their chance meeting changes both of their lives for the better and I loved the unique relationship they built along the way…they dynamic between these two was fantastic as it was full of sarcastic banter and also tender moments. Along with their friendship, I fell in love with their journey and their healing. I appreciated the messages of forgiveness and hope “Hope is never a bad thing”, stepping outside of our comfort zone and finding joy in saying yes to things you may not have before “Be fearless, the world needs your voice”, second chances “We all need someone to believe in us”, and finding what truly matters in our lives “After all, it’s the little moments that make a life”.
A huge thank you to Courtney Walsh, Thomas Nelson publishing, and NetGalley for gifting me this e-arc for my hones review.
Out July 2nd, please pick up your own copy of this wonderful story so you can enjoy it as much as I did too!

ive been wanting to read something by Courtney for quite and while and this was officially my very first read! it definitely did not disappoint and I want to read so many more by her 😊💞
Georgina was such an admirable character because she was just so quirky (very relatable from this quirky nerd over here🫶🏻)! And I loved both her and Kelsey throughout the story. I also loved that this had a romantic element with Hayden 🥰 I can’t say enough how deeply I appreciate our closed-door authors who are so extremely talented in bringing in ALL of the swoon without the explicitness. 🥹
I really enjoyed this and felt it was such a genuinely authentic story. between that and the character development & dynamics, there is absolutely no way this could be anything less than a 5 star read!! definitely recommend 🥹

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the first book I’ve read by Courtney Walsh but I’m so excited to read more!
Kelsey gets into an accident and ends up sharing a hospital room with Georgia, a high societal business woman. Kelsey & Georgia are alike in many ways, but mostly because work is their number one priority. They blow off family & friends to climb the professional ladder at their jobs.
After her accident, Kelsey realizes she needs to make a change, and encourages Georgia to do the same. She tells Georgia to join her on the ‘summer of yes;’ challenging them both to go way outside their comfort zone.
When Kelsey & Georgia take a road trip, Kelsey meets Georgia’s son, who happens to be quite charming, and even more handsome.
I thought this book was a little slow to start, but overall it was a great book! Thanks to NetGalley & the Publisher for the ARC! #booksbyashleynicole

Yet again, Courtney Walsh never disappoints! I was grateful to receive this advance copy in exchange for an honest review, and honestly: I fell in love!
Georgina might be my favorite of Courtney’s main characters to date. She’s sassy, spunky, a little acerbic, and hiding big feelings behind that tough facade. Being paired up with earnest, determined, optimistic Kelsey in the hospital turned out to be a game-changing moment for them both.
Our story bounced back and forth between Kelsey and Georgina, and I found both voices enjoyable. Courtney develops perfect rom-coms with characters you root for, all the heart, and plots that move steadily to a happy ending. I love rom-coms for a reason, and Courtney is at the top of this game. She creates happy spaces - but with depth and grit- that make reading fun. And isn’t that what it’s all about?
Also: Hayden. Swoon.
This book is about chasing your dreams, finding yourself, and taking chances. And I loved every moment of it.
Thank you to Courtney Walsh for another fantastic and unforgettable story with heroines to root for and leading men to swoon over. Thank you for closed-door, non-steamy (but still plenty romantic!) love stories. Thank you for not focusing on the ugly in life, but the happy. Those of us who read for escapism really love you the most.
And, in a truly ironic twist, I might like Georgina a bit more because I have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and although I’m not in kidney failure, it’s rare to find a story about someone who is. This hit a little closer to home - in a good way!
This one drops July 2; if you love rom-coms, you definitely need to preorder this one now!

What a wonderful read! I was intrigued by the title as so many things came to mind. I was wrong but in a good way.
We meet Kelsey, who is a workaholic, and something happens to her (no spoiler!) In her recovery, she meets a very famous businesswoman, who is a hyper workaholic for lack of better word. She, Georgina, is facing a serious life crisis and Kelsey is drawn to her even though Georgina pushes her away.
From this, Kelsey decides to live, experience life, and drags Georgina into it whether she likes it or not.
Parts are funny, wise, and also very touching. They have an adventure it will be hard to forget. Parts are romance, but it's more about forgiveness, love, and living your best life.

Loved reading the highly recommended and wonderfully written story. While Kelsey is in the hospital, she shares a room with the famous woman, Georgina Tate, who started her own cosmetics company. Kelsey realizes she hasn't done anything but work, so she begins her journey to say yes to the summer of yes and feels the need to help Georgina into a summer of yes. Read the must read riveting story full of captivating characters and an engaging storyline.

Rating: I really liked it!
This was my first book by Courtney Walsh and it did not disappoint! It was the perfect Summer read!
I adore books that have generational relationships! This book showcased character growth, forgiveness, bravery, selflessness, and more!
Honestly, it’s one of those books you need to read when you need faith in the world and yourself again! I read this at the perfect time in my life, and loved it!
Thank you Net Galley, Thomas Nelson, and Courtney Walsh for the ebook in return for my honest review!

Loved this - it is like "Yes Day" but for romance readers. Let me first say that I have read every book Courtney Walsh has ever written, and I will continue to do so. Forever. She is my go-to for a great romance that tugs the heart strings, but I believe this one might be her best yet! What a wonderful story! An excellent romance by one of the top Christian contemporary authors, but I think anyone regardless of religion would enjoy the sweetness and the simplicity of this well-plotted love story that really is more than just a romance - its about loving yourself, throwing hear and caution to the wind, and living the life you were given like there is no tomorrow. What a wonderful reminder to enjoy each and every day!. I can't wait to own this novel in print.

The "Summer of Yes" title just gives off a vibe of saying "Yes" to reading it. The beginning of this story starts with an accident, which turns into a unlikely meet up of two women, one that is not sure where she wants or needs to be and another who knows where she deserves to be, but with lots of pent up angst and regrets.
Kelsey & Georgina find a commonality, albeit at first they fight it. They wind up together intertwined beginning with a series of answering "Yes" to questions they normally say "No" to, not knowing how much it will change the trajectory of both of their lives.
This book made me literally laugh out loud (few books do that honestly). Most might provoke a smile from a sentence or two but it was just funny especially the analogies! And there was once I literally teared up.
This is a fun, witty, feel good story with real life situations and problems written within all the sunshine parts. As I read this, I couldn't help but think a little (or maybe a lot) of the author was shining through with her own thoughts and feelings, which to me is authentic in it's rarest form and refreshingly fantastic. The writing is a lot of "Yes! Exactly! I've felt that before, but didn't know how to put into words."
A feel good (yep said it again), pull at your heart strings, but oh so fulfilling summer read you need to add to your TBR.

Thank you to both NetGalley and the publisher for providing me a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for a review. I really liked this book! It follows a young woman (Kelsey) who has put aside her dream of becoming a writer in exchange for stability, and an older woman (Georgina) who gave up her family life for a career. When the two meet in a near-death-experience, they decide (after a lot of convincing from Kelsey) to go on a 'summer of yes' wherein they agree to spend the summer saying yes to all the things they have been too afraid to do in their lives. The whole thing felt a little cheesy, but honestly I didn't mind. I think this book spoke to me as someone in her early 20s, as it was all about figuring out your priorities and living life for yourself, not others. Even though it was a bit simplistic, this book felt like a balm on my existential dread about the future -- finding a career, finding success, making those in my life proud at the expense of my wants. I honestly might need to embark on a summer of yes myself. However, I'm taking off one star because of some lines in the book that just felt a little bit... off. I didn't realize this was a Christian book until I finished it, though I could kind of tell based on a few throwaway comments. At one point, Georgina asks Kelsey if her summer of yes would include her saying yes to /anything/, even (gasp) sleeping with a stranger. Kelsey responds emphatically that of course she would never do that as it would compromise her morals. While that's a totally valid choice for the character to make for herself, that and a few other lines were written in a way that were just very...odd and judgy. There was also a little bit of mixed messaging there about women and careers that felt the tiniest bit reminiscent of Harrison Butker's infamous speech. None of these things were like absolutely egregious, but they just didn't particularly work for me.

“The Summer of Yes” by Courtney Walsh was an unexpected delight. What I thought would be a light-hearted read turned out to be a deeply emotional yet funny journey that tugged at my heartstrings.
The story kicks off with Kelsey Worthington, a workaholic junior editor who has always played it safe. After a near-death experience, Kelsey decides to shake things up and start saying yes to life. Her catalyst is an older woman named Georgina Tate, whom she meets in the hospital. Georgina, a highly successful businesswoman facing her own mortality, becomes an unlikely companion on Kelsey’s journey.
What stands out in this book is the dual narrative, allowing us to delve deeply into the lives and perspectives of both Kelsey and Georgina. Both women are driven and have made significant sacrifices for their careers. Georgina’s reflections on her regrets resonate with Kelsey, prompting her to reconsider her own life choices. This introspection and mutual influence form the crux of their relationship, making their story compelling and relatable.
Walsh excels in character development. Kelsey and Georgina are complex and well-drawn, each with intriguing backstories that unfold beautifully as the plot progresses. The dynamic between them is both touching and humorous, with their banter being one of the highlights of the book. The contrast and similarities between the two women create a rich tapestry of interactions that keep you engaged throughout their summer adventures.
The “Yes Plan” that Kelsey embarks on, with Georgina reluctantly in tow, leads to heartwarming and entertaining escapades. From being tourists in New York City to spontaneous dinners with strangers and even an impulsive road trip, their journey is filled with moments of joy and self-discovery. These adventures underscore the book’s message about embracing life’s possibilities and breaking free from self-imposed limitations.
While there is romance in the story, it takes a backseat to the powerful friendship and personal growth of Kelsey and Georgina. Their evolving relationship and the positive changes they bring to each other’s lives are the true stars of the book.
Final Thoughts:
“The Summer of Yes,” Courtney Walsh weaves a narrative that is both inspiring and uplifting. The blend of humour, emotion, and insightful reflections on life’s priorities makes this book a standout. I loved every moment of it and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a feel-good read with depth and heart.
4.5 stars
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher, but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

I absolutely loved this book! it's an inspiring story of a young woman who meets an older, admired successful woman through a dramatic event that makes them value what is truly important in life. Without being cheesy as a Hallmark movie, it is a story that will probably also inspire the reader to make important decisions in terms of what really matters in life. The writing is light, funny, and overall makes a very fun read.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

This was a fun cute read!! I loved the two characters and the premise of the book!! I only wished the romance was explored a bit more.

Courtney Walsh does it again. I have been so happy every time I put down one of her books, sad to put it down but walk away with such a great feeling

Kelsey Worthington’s day wasn’t supposed to start by being hit by a car and waking up in the hospital next to Georgia Tate a legionary NYC businesswoman. Being totally opposites they finally realize that they are both facing regrets in their lives. Kelsey decides that they were both facing regrets in their and devises a plan for the summer to say yes to all the things they haven’t done. So they embark on a journey that will change both of their tremendously.
Thank you to Courtney Walsh and Thomas Nelson Fiction

I really enjoyed this book. I love the way that Courtney Walsh can weave a story with a fantastic message and great romance. This was an inspiring book that I am sure will make people look at how they live their life.

If you’re looking for a summer beach read then “The Summer of Yes” will be perfect for you. Courtney Walsh has done it again! Normally Women’s fiction is not my cup of tea but the author clearly changed my mind on this particular topic. Kelsey is all sunshine and Georgina Tate is all grump. Their friendship is sweet, witty, and actually kind of sad. The characters undergo growth, awakening, and ultimately have a wonderful ending. This book was clean with sweet kisses. Must read for the summer. Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.

Do I even need to preface this review with my love for Courtney Walsh and her stories she writes? Characters she creates?
The Summer of Yes is a great introduction to summer reading… with a bit of inspiration to say Yes to new things that may come your way!
After a near death experience our main girl Kelsey is wanting to make a change in her life… while in the hospital she is roomies with Georgina Tate… a successful business woman who has some of her own regrets now that she sees the end of her days coming to light. These two come together (Georgina reluctant at first) and decide to spend the summer saying YES!
There’s way more to the story than just that brief synopsis… but I think going into the story and being surprised by what unfolds in these two ladies lives is the fun part. I love when I read a book by Courtney I can hear her author voice within the pages. She tends to always inspires me as a reader with her underlying themes and this one was a beautiful ode to second chances, trying new things and going for what makes you happy!
Like always I feel incredibly grateful to have read an early copy thank you Thomas Nelson Publishing and Courtney Walsh
Releases 7/2
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.Andthebookshelf/

While romcom is not my preferred genre, it's fun once in a while to read a light, happy book. Courtney Walsh delivered that once again in her new book that releases on July 2. The Summer of Yes is the perfect combination of The Devil Wears Prada and Yes Day, so much so that throughout the whole book the character of Georgina Tate was absolutely played by Meryl Streep in my head. Though I do think this is mostly a fun read, there were also some good life lessons throughout that had me reflecting on my own choices and patterns. If you love romcoms, contemporary fiction, and feel-good stories, this one would be a great summer read to add to your TBR.
If you're like me and don't love a romcom, you may find some parts of this book to be a bit too Hallmark-y, predictable, and unrealistic. There were also a lot of pop-culture references that bugged me a bit, some because I didn't know what they were, and others because I just prefer a more timeless book. That being said though, I do think there's a place for lighter reads, and for me this one was well-timed.
Adult contemporary women's fiction. Clean romance with kissing only. No language. Difficult family relationships.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I requested this book because of the premise and because I had read another book by the author. I was excited to receive it, but then noticed the "Christian Fiction" tag. That is not my genre at all and I was disappointed and somewhat dreading reading the book. Regardless, I picked it up and was relieved to find that it was not faith based at all. It's a clean romance, so I'm not sure if that's why it has that label? Either way, if you are looking for a faith based book--this isn't it. If you are put off by the label, then no worries because there are only a few fleeting references to God and Jesus, but not in a religious preachy way. More in a questioning way.
That being said, I got hooked in the beginning and it seemed almost too fast paced, but then it slowed to a halt. The second half was so long and repetitive that I feel either the pacing should be fixed, or about 30 pages shaved off the book.
It's not an original premise with the grumpy/sunshine, old lady/young woman teaching each other about how to live, trope...but it was cute. I didn't really understand Kelsey's issues with opening herself up to love and creativity since she was raised with it all. She had to overcome so many self imposed challenges that seem to have come out of nowhere. I also would have liked a little more build up and chemistry rather than insta-love with the main love story.
Overall, it was pretty entertaining and could make for a nice vacation read.