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

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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.

This book was such a feel good experience. It showed the power and joy that comes with saying yes to things that you never have, and the fear and intensity that kept you saying no. I loved reading everyone’s relationships with one another. So much growth happened within these pages that was beautiful to see. I loved how much hope the book held, and the way it came to life and resonated with me in such a deep and personal way!

What a story! Encouraging and uplifting!
I laughed a little, cried a few tears, and found myself thoroughly engrossed in this beautiful story.
Kelsey doesn't know how to say yes - she's afraid, and she has been driven with work.
A close call causes her to re-evaluate, and try to figure out what really matters in life.
Spending time with the ones we love comes out on top, and I found it highly entertaining to watch her take this new direction in her life.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

I was looking forward to reading this book. A summer of yes sounds really wonderful. Unfortunately, I did not like this at all. The writing was really uneven and I didn’t think the characters had very distinctive voices.

Unfortunately I couldn't finish reading this because the ebook I received had a weird formatation problem and it really stressed me out to keep reading it. I tried reaching out to see if I could get another copy but I wasn't sucessfull. Once the book is oficially out, I'll be giving it a proper review since I really enjoyed the author's previous work and the synopsis really interested me. Also the cover is really beautiful.

I just reviewed The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh. #TheSummerofYes #NetGalley
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It was cute book about a girl named Kelsey and Georgia Worthington. They took a summer and said yes about it. It was about taking risk and falling in love.

This book unfortunately just wasn't what I expected. I tried for several weeks, but I just couldn't get into it. There was too much "fix myself" stuff for me.

I can see this being on many readers’ beach read list. Easy to read with a touch of humor but some deeper thought provoking threads as well. There were definitely character reactions that were unbelievable, but this is a piece of fiction.

Thank you NatGalley, Courtney Walsh and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this ARC. If you are looking for a great summer read, then say Yes to this book! This is such a sweet, uplifting story that will make you think deeply about things in life, your choices, priorities, and how we live this one wild, wonderful life we’ve been given. This was a clean story with some deep themes, but also great, witty banter. It will have you feeling all the feels.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Kelsey is an editor who never goes out of her comfort zone. Her relationships are safe, her existence is stable, but after an accident, she has desires to change her life in big ways.

While in the hospital, she meets an inspiring business woman named Georgina Tate. Georgina mainly valued her career and success, not minding leaving her husband and son behind. With kidney failure and only a few months to live, she regrets neglecting her family. Kelsey is inspired by Georgina's success and regrets, and the Summer of Yes is born.

The two set off on adventures they have never done, and what might be waiting out there for them if they simply open themselves up to it. Even possibly reuniting Georgina with her estranged family.

I would give this book a 3.25 star rating out of 5 stars. I really liked Courtney Walsh's writing, and enjoyed the fast-paced nature of the book. I liked the characters, and the fun adventures they went on. At some points, I was a little bored. I loved the ending, and was really happy to see these characters get everything they want. If you are looking for a fun, emotional, inspiring summer read, The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh is the perfect pick.

The book comes out on July 2nd.