I love Courtney Walsh. She is an autobuy/download author for me. When I saw this book I jumped on it. Unfortunately that is where the happiness ends. I feel this was a total deviation from the normal books she writes. I understand the premise of the book was supposed to be thoughtful and inspiring, but that's not what I read Courtney Walsh for. I'm going to hope this was a one off and I enjoy the next book!

Just say YES...to this heartwarming story of courage, growth, and second chances in this captivating read! It has the perfect blend of humor, heart, and relatable moments. 𝕋𝕙𝕖 𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕣 𝕠𝕗 𝕐𝕖𝕤 left me feeling uplifted and empowered. I absolutely loved it.

𝑫𝑬𝑺𝑪𝑹𝑰𝑷𝑻𝑰𝑶𝑵
Kelsey’s and Georgina’s lives collide in an unusual way. Despite their contrasting, strong-willed personalities, they embark on a journey of self-discovery as they grapple with their pasts. Through dual POV you’ll witness Kelsey’s and Georgina’s personal transformations as they navigate through life’s challenges and learn valuable lessons along the way about love, family, forgiveness, friendship, and the power of saying YES (and no 😊). You’ll discover the magic of stepping out of your comfort zone, embracing the unknown, and facing your fears head-on.

𝑺𝑼𝑴𝑴𝑨𝑹𝒀
This is a beautifully crafted novel that will capture your imagination and tug at your heartstrings. I cried in several places, so tissue was necessary! But the book left me with a renewed sense of hope and possibility. If you liked The Devil Wears Prada, you’ll love this book.

𝑪𝑶𝑵𝑻𝑬𝑵𝑻
🛁 Squeaky clean read
💋 𝗦𝗲𝘅 & 𝗡𝘂𝗱𝗶𝘁𝘆 - Closed door
🤬 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 - None
🥊 𝗩𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 - None

Thank you, NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Publishers, and @courtneywalsh for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

👉🏻 𝗣𝘂𝗯 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗝𝘂𝗹𝘆 𝟮, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰

This book is evidence as to at the time of an event that would be classified as a disruptor actually turns your life in a positive direction as to one can realize what true happiness and love looks like. Before this event happened to Kelsey, she lived in a sterile colorless world contrary to the vibrancy of New York City as all she did was go back and forth from her office to her apartment. Even the table in her apartment was an unopened box. Then the event happened and Georgina came into her life. Most importantly, she realized that it was time to say yes when her impulse was to say no. She let fear and the need to be liked supersede what made her happy. This turn of events made her hope for a change. Therefore, her and Georgina embarked on this adventure even though Georgina fought her with every step. There was no stopping the power of saying yes. Because of that, Kelsey found love with Hayden and Georgina rekindled hers with Dylan. A truly heartwarming and inspiring book as to what can occur when you hope for something you deserve.

I picked this book up for two reasons: 1. The premise seemed something right up my alley—two headstrong female leads who are kind of work obsessed? Sign me up. 2. The lead character was named Kelsey. I don’t see my name in most books (it’s a strange one), so I knew I had to read it.

This was really heartwarming and touching, and I liked the idea of getting two perspectives in one book—specifically from two women who were at very different points in their lives. It’s a real eye opener, especially if you’re in your twenties and fixated on getting ahead, career-wise. This really seemed like the kind of book that would suck me up.

While touching, I felt like a lot of the book was too good to be true? I love happy endings as much as the next gal, but there is a way to integrate them naturally so that it feels like it’s the only plausible ending. I think the resolution here was just too rushed, too sudden—like a complete 180 of some kind that just felt kind of unbelievable. It’s also very much insta-love, and while I’m a complete sucker for books with characters that fall in love in one fell swoop, even I was taken aback by how sudden it was. I’m a little conflicted here, because this book had so much promise. It had the makings of the kind of women’s romance that I knew I could get swept in. Unfortunately, the writing did kind of throw me off (Georgina, the elder character’s perspective just seemed a tad too shifty, in a way. It was both easy and difficult to get a read on her, mostly because I felt like she couldn’t exactly make up her mind). I think this book is the kind that would function really well as a movie, but sadly, it didn’t read too well for me.

I LOVE THIS BOOK!

It's a cute, endearing heartwarming, 'coming-of-the-age' tale about two women in different stages of life discovering romance, careers, and priorities.

I loved every character. Kelsey and Georgina are amazing. Hayden and Dylan are so cute. Ravi, Sasha, JP, and Kelsey's mom are great supporting characters. I like how they're all explored just enough to make you love them.

The romance is on point. The background stories and settings are perfect. The writing is captivating and sets a nice pace.

I have no complaints about this book.

If you're looking for a light, short summer read, say yes to this book.

Recommended to anyone who wants a Hallmark-worthy moviesque rom-com book.

Please tell me there's going to be another sequel.

Here's to saying yes!

I loved this book and the whole idea of it reminded me of the move 'the bucket list'. Just like that movie it moved me, made me laugh and i loved it.

I love how the story follows not just Kelsey but also Georgina in her journey of saying yes to things for a summer. This way you get two storylines that are connected seamlessly. I thought the book dealt perfectly with some heavy themes people experience in day to day life and i think the author portrayed that struggle really well.

I think there is also a message to learn from this book: say yes more often! Life is too short to be missing out on vacations or dinner with friends bc you are working. At the end of the day it's the friends and family you make along the way that will be there for you

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

Wow. Every now and then a book comes along that is so delicious and fulfilling that it is tantamount to chocolate ice cream or perhaps prime rib, or better yet, chocolate ice cream and prime rib. Everything about this Courtney Walsh novel inspired, convicted, and enthralled me.

“Was it worth it?” asks thirty-something Kelsey who has just escaped a near-death experience. She asks the question of Georgina – the richest, most successful – and dying woman in the country. Georgina is powerful, cruel, and unhappy and is forced into sharing a hospital room with Kelsey. Kelsey is driven and solely focused on success and because of her accident has acquired a sense of boldness.

So, “Was it worth it?” becomes the question to be answered. Is success more important than love, friendship, and family? Kelsey wants to know before she spends the rest of her existence saying no to fun, relationships, and long-buried dreams. Searching for the answer, Kelsey gets Georgina to reluctantly try to experience life differently.

This book deeply affected me in many good ways. I am closer to Georgina’s age, I chased after fame and fortune for a long time in my life. And made lots of mistakes while doing so. Many of us probably have similar stories. And my younger friends in the midst of trying to forge perfect lives, are staggering under the weight of expectations from their families, the culture, and the world. It is a lot to shoulder when you are twenty, or thirty or forty. And looking back in time – I find myself thinking, did I try hard enough, or did I settle? Did I let fear keep me from what I really wanted? What would have happened if I had made different choices? These are big questions and Ms. Walsh deftly, gently, and sometimes crushingly takes her characters, whom we have grown to love and identify with, through them all.

The Summer of Yes could be a life-altering read for someone at nearly any stage of life. Did I mention that there was plenty of lovely romance woven throughout? That is the sumptuous dessert for this delicious feast. It will be a meal you will want to savor, and certainly one you won’t forget.
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I received an advance, complimentary copy of this book and I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

Courtney Walsh’s “The Summer of Yes” is a delightful journey of self-discovery, friendship, and embracing the unexpected twists life throws our way. Set against the backdrop of New York City, this novel weaves together the stories of two women from different walks of life who find themselves on a transformative summer adventure.

Kelsey Worthington, a dreamer and aspiring writer, and Georgina Tate, a confident and outspoken businesswoman, form an unlikely bond after a chance encounter in a hospital room. As they navigate Georgina’s health struggles and confront their own regrets, they embark on a journey of saying yes to new experiences and opportunities.

One of the most captivating aspects of the novel is the dynamic between Kelsey and Georgina. Their contrasting personalities create a perfect balance, and their evolving friendship is heartwarming to witness. Walsh’s skillful characterization breathes life into these women, making them relatable and endearing to readers.

The theme of seizing the moment and taking risks is beautifully woven throughout the narrative. As Kelsey and Georgina step out of their comfort zones, readers are inspired to reflect on their own lives and consider what they might gain by embracing new challenges.

Walsh’s prose is engaging and immersive, transporting readers to the bustling streets of New York City and the tranquil shores of the ocean. The vivid descriptions and vivid settings enhance the reading experience, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the story.

While “The Summer of Yes” is primarily a feel-good story, it also tackles deeper themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the importance of living life to the fullest. Through Kelsey and Georgina’s journey, readers are reminded of the power of resilience and the beauty of second chances.

Overall, “The Summer of Yes” is a charming and uplifting novel that will leave readers feeling inspired and hopeful. With its memorable characters, engaging storyline, and poignant message, it’s a perfect read for anyone in search of a heartwarming tale of friendship and self-discovery.

“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.”

After a near death experience, Kelsey has a bit of a life awakening and realizes that she has missed out on a lot because of always putting work first. She ends up sharing a hospital room with Georgina, a famous businesswoman who is dealing with medical issues of her own. After much convincing on Kelsey’s part, the two women embark on a “summer of yes” together.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱:

•Georgina & Kelsey are a perfect example of a grumpy/sunshine friendship & their journey from strangers to friends was done so well!
•The banter between Kelsey & Georgina’s assistant was hilarious.
•The absolute mic drop moment of Georgina standing up for Kelsey with her boss
•Georgina’s arc!! It was beautiful & heartbreaking & I wanted to shake her senseless at times but her final speech in the end was amazing.
•The overall message & theme of the “summer of yes” was so inspiring!

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗺𝗲𝗵:

While I did love both characters, I felt like both Hayden and Dylan came off a bit unrealistic with how forgiving they were. That being said, those two were pure cinny rolls.

•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-•-

This is a heartwarming story about forgiveness and grace and embracing life to the fullest. Another great book by a go to author for me!🙌🏻

Thank you Courtney Walsh, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgally for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

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

Loved this uplifting book about the friendship of females that crosses generational divides. It encourages living life to the fullest, taking risks, and the sweet romance woven within its pages is a wonderful addition. Yes, yes, YES!

The Summer of Yes, by Courtney Walsh, was a sweet, clean romance full of wit and humor. Kelsey schemes a way to reunite Georgina with her family and finds romance along the way. In return, Georgina pushes Kelsey to find what “sets her on fire.” This was a great beach read, in which serious topics are covered in a way that is inspiring, rather than depressing, with a happy ever after for all.

This was the first book by Courtney Walsh I’ve read, and I look forward to reading more.

I rated the Summer of Yes 4/5 stars, and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys supportive women’s fiction with a side of romance (without the smut).

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to Netgalley, Courtney Walsh, and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to read and review an ARC of this book.

Another Courtney Walsh book, another 5 star read for me! I had the best time reading this one!

I just love Courtney Walsh’s writing! It’s always uplifting and makes me laugh and have fun while reading, while also sharing depth and growth. The characters, relationships, banter, saying yes to things you usually wouldn’t, second chances, forgiveness, and romance were all wonderful in this one! Is Hayden a new book boyfriend? Duh! 😂 I also loved the references to “how readers might think” if it was a romance book. 😆
The Hunger Games reference was another highlight for me, and it was fun that part of it was set in North Carolina too!

Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Courtney Walsh for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own. 😊

I love Courtney Walsh books! And The Summer of Yes did not disappoint! I have personally had my own Year of Yes (for different reasons!) so it was a fun idea to

It was romantic, inspiring, encouraging, and so much more! Pick this book up - you will not regret it!

THE SUMMER OF YES by COURTNEY WALSH is a besutifully written and most enjoyable romance novel, full of humourous repartee and delightful characters.
When Kelsey Worthington wakes up in hospital to find the irate Georgina Tate, with her haughty attitude and acerbic remarks, her life changes. Georgina is a famous business woman who is dying of liver failure, and as Kelsey uncovers Georgina’s regrets, she finds she herself is full of fear and worry which is stopping her from living life to the full and that she could easily end up like Georgina with similar regrets. As Georgina says to her when Kelsey is trying to get her to join her on a road trip, saying yes to everything to which she has always said no, “ Stop pouring all of your attention into my life and what you think is wrong with it and start facing yout own.”……
Leaving New York behind them they travel to Driftwood where Georgina’s husband Dylan and their son Hayden live, and where Kelsey says yes to things that terrified her in the past, and where her creativity is slowly restored…..
It is a story of restoration, unconditional love, forgiveness and second chances, in which we are reminded that “We all need someone to believe in us.”
This is a lovely read that really touched my heart and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Thomas Nelson. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

The Summer of Yes is a heartwarming story about getting out of your comfort zone. Kelsey and Georgina find friendship in the unlikeliest of places and it leads them on a grand adventure. The characters go on a journey learning how life’s unpredictability can lead to self discovery, overcoming big fears, and mending our most important relationships, especially with family.

I have read quite a few books by Courtney Walsh, and love all of her books, but I struggled getting through the first 30% of this book. Shortly after, as the story built and the characters developed more, it really started to capture my attention and I couldn’t put it down.

This book is perfect if you want an uplifting story. And remember ... just say YES!

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for this ARC. All opinions are my own.

The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh is a great contemporary romance that helps let us know that it is never too late to change our minds and hearts.

Kelsey and Georgina at first appear as polar opposites in personality and life experiences, but after their paths cross, they find through opening up their minds and hearts in friendship, they are able to work on healing their past wounds, and navigate the uncharted waters of the present and future.

4.5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Thomas Nelson for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

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

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/2/24.

The characters were likeable, the plot kept my interest, and the snarky comments made me chuckle. I didn't have anything negative to say about the book and its contents, but it didn't leave me raving and needing to tell all of my friends about it. I would recommend people read this book because the story is good. Some things did seem a bit repetitive but that happens sometimes. Overall, it's a good story with a bit of drama and life lessons.

Starts right out of the gate, in the best of ways! Georgina is simultaneously the woman you love to hate but hate to love. She’s so steeped in regrets and hides behind the very thick, powerful and successful wall she’s built. Kelsey, freshly after a second chance, is just starting to her view herself through the same lens as Georgina. And she’s determined to not only shake it up, but take Georgina on her Summer of Yes adventure. Some are simple, everyday moments where a choice is intentionally made to do something different. Others are monumental with life altering outcomes.
Reading Kelsey’s question as she’s re-evaluating everything and asking if it’s all been worth it definitely struck a chord. When did I lose that sense of wonder? Will it set your soul on fire? What are your disrupters? Is it worth it? I loved the audacity of Kelsey when she found her voice. And the verbal sparring between these two women had me laughing out loud. More than that though, they push and challenge each other. They speak hard truths neither wants to hear and they both become stronger as a result.
This is a feel good story because of the perfectly placed wit, but don’t be mistaken, this is not a light read. It deeply challenged me and had me asking myself some hard questions. In the end, I am thankful and encourage anyone who is reflecting, bored, stuck, or wondering about next steps to read this.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

This book is about saying ‘Yes’ to chances including romance, work and relationships. Two women meet while roommates in a hospital. Kelsey has had near death experience and Georgina is seriously ill. Kelsey convinces Georgina to go on a road trip and so the story begins. The chatter between Georgina and Kelsey is funny and healing for them both. Both are masters of pushing the right buttons. Romance, second chances and a new future ensue. I thoroughly enjoyed saying Yes to this book.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Paperback for an early read in exchange for a fair review.

Kelsey and Georgina meet under random circumstances— both in the hospital sharing a room. From the outside looking in, Georgina has the perfect life. She’s a strong woman who has accomplished much, but her personal life is a mess. Kelsey has been hit by a car that jumps the curb but miraculously she is given a second chance at life. Both Georgina and Kelsey can embrace a life of yeses— but will they?
This book made me tear up and laugh. Highly recommended.