This one had such a fun and heartfelt premise—I was hooked right away by Rosie and her whirlwind situation. The middle dragged a little more than I wanted, and I think it could’ve been tighter overall, but the emotional payoff was worth the wait. The narration was top-notch and really brought the characters to life.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars for a charming, feel-good story with a whole lot of heart. PG for light romance and emotional themes.

This was cute but I had a hard time engaging with the story. The pacing felt a bit off and the FMC felt a bit immature for her late 20s. Although I’m not sure if it was for the narrator on audio or if the actual character. It also felt like the romance was a subplot instead of the main plot which for a romcom I feel is a bit off. Overall cute and light story with a HEA.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for both an e-arc and audio arc.

A heartfelt, character-driven story about growth, friendship, and finding the courage to let go of the life you thought you wanted. One of the most touching parts for me was “Non-Fiction Fridays”—a slow, intentional way the characters began to open up to each other, building trust and emotional safety over time. It’s a quiet but powerful representation of how vulnerability doesn’t have to happen all at once.

Rosie’s journey is very real, though I’ll admit I found her lack of honesty—especially with her friends, family, and herself—a bit frustrating at times. That said, there are so many lovely, meaningful moments throughout, including the quote that really stuck with me: “You can’t make anyone feel anything if you don’t feel it yourself.”

The romance is closed-door, but the chemistry between Rosie and Booker still shines. Their banter is adorable and brought a sweet, light-hearted energy to the story.

I listened to this one as an audiobook and really enjoyed the narration—it brought the characters to life and made the emotional moments even more impactful. If you enjoy slower-paced books that dig into emotional growth and the evolving nature of happiness, this one’s worth picking up.

I really enjoyed this cute, heartwarming story. It's a romance based around a girl trying to find her way in this world while following her dreams. I'm sure a lot of us could find that relatable. And, I mean, can you imagine anything sweeter than directing a retirement village to play Cinderella?! Just me, ok. Lol

I loved this book. I am in a transitional time in my career. I am leaving one vocation to go back to grad school. It’s scary and exciting. Rosie is going through the same thing. This book is such a true depiction of growing into yourself in a lighthearted way. The characters in this book are sincere and lovely. It’s entertaining and also speaks to the true nature of figuring out what you want in life and how to get it. This book is sweet and simple. It’s a fun read. It reminds me of talking to my best friends about what comes next. Such a fun read.

If you’re looking for a sweet, light hearted romcom then Courtney Walsh is your girl! I’ve really enjoyed everything by her that I’ve read, and Rosie was no different.

Rosie wants nothing more than to be a successful actor, but when all of her plans fall apart and she’s forced to look everywhere and anywhere for her next gig. When she’s offered a directing job for a production of Cinderella Rosie jumps at the chance to get one foot back on the stage. She soon realizes this production is not what she expected.

I really enjoyed Rosie’s story! At the beginning of the book she starts in a place of relatable self doubt and constant comparisons. She wants to live a life that people will be proud of. I’m being vague just in case people want to be surprised — but her shock when she found out how unique her production would be and the fun setting of this story won me over. And Booker was also a fun addition. ;)

Rosie's down on her luck. She's an actress without a job and desperate times call for desperate measures, so she decides that she's going to apply for anything and everything. When a job offer comes in that seems too good to be true. She has no choice but to take it. Unfortunately, she didn't pay close enough attention to the job listing, or the email that was sent to her and she's beyond shocked to learn that she's the director of a theater that is basically staffed by members of the retirement community she works for.

I was prepared to not like the book toward the end because Rosie decides to follow her dreams instead of staying with the retirement community. I thought she'd lose out on her happily ever after. But Ms. Walsh didn't fail me and I was so very happy to see how Rosie's HEA came about.

If you love theater, sassy older people, HEA, and characters, you just want to be your friends/grandparents - then this book is for you.

I'd like to thank the publisher (Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio) and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook. The narrator Jorjeana Marie did an exceptional job reading the characters and keeping you immersed in the story. Kudos!

I just love a good Courtney Walsh book. I listened to her latest, Everything’s Coming Up Rosie and I loved it!

This was such a wonderful, happy, and feel-good book! I enjoyed the characters, the setting, the plot, but most of all the message. Rosie, the protagonist, goes through a journey of accidental self discovery, by giving things and people chances, and giving herself permission to realise her dreams, and find new ones. The supporting cast is just as charming, and the community vibe in the story adds so much comfort and joy, and there was romance there too. I loved it, and can't wait to explore more of the author's books!

This was just what I needed at the time that I read it! The book pulled me in very quickly with the FMCs quirky personality complete with theatre quips. It is an awesome book for anyone who has participated in theatre throughout their life.

I actually got curious when I saw a few lower starred ratings and needed to take a peek as it baffled me. After reading them I’m convinced we read different books?? Or maybe it is because I consumed the audiobook which gave a different impact? The first part of the book was a “page turner” or in audio terms, couldn’t press pause in order to eat dinner so you sat at the dining table with head phones on.

I thoroughly enjoyed the theatre references and the FMCs using showtune excerpts in appropriate settings. The FMC is a 29 year old who hasn’t achieved stability in her adult life, yet. It’s very reminiscent of many working theatrical actors who are doing everything they can to make ends meet and have as much of a connection to the theatre in NYC. Also the banter between her and the MMC is great!

My biggest criticism is that there was a bit of a lull as it slows down a bit. However, it does pick back up again for the last 25% of the book. There are a few plot things that I personally wish were in the book but that does not and never show impact a review or rating because for starters.. it’s not my book and secondly, it’s well written, thought out, and executed beautifully.

The book was narrated by Jorjeana Marie who did a fantastic job with her recitation. She really seemed to connect to the FMC and I loved all the voices and accents she voices for the other characters. She did it all with such ease that it made it easy to create the world in your mind.


I am thankful to have gotten a complimentary audio ALC from Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio through NetGalley to read which gave me the opportunity to voluntarily leave a review.

This title comes out on June 10, 2025 so get onto your TBR!
My rating system since GoodReads doesn’t have partial stars

⭐️ Hated it
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea (potentially DNF’d or thought about it)
⭐️⭐️⭐️ Meh, it was an ok read but nothing special
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! Would recommend to others
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Will circle back and read again

Audiobook Review of Everything’s Coming Up Rosie

Jorjeana Marie does such a great job with the narration. She gives each character their own voice, and the way she adds emotion and little cues really brings the story to life.
The best word I can use to describe this book is cute. From the cover to the characters to the story itself, it’s full of charm and sweetness. That said, the pacing felt a little slow at times, and there were moments where I found myself waiting for something more to happen. Still, the characters were kind and likable, and the ending wrapped up in a really satisfying, heartwarming way. If you're in the mood for a clean, wholesome romance, this one's a lovely pick.

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an advance copy. All opinions are my own.

*Contains an audiobook review.

This is a standalone, kisses only contemporary romcom.

The story we have here is of following your dreams and learning where those dreams can take us. The book has elements of women's fiction in it, but there are also themes of romance and friendship. I was more invested in the second half of the book when the action and romance seemed to pick up for me.

The cast of characters adds many humorous and sometimes poignant moments. I personally don't know a lot about acting and theater work, but I know that this author has that in her background. The connection she has really lends weight to the story. The reader can tell that the story comes from her heart and not from research.

I think that many will be able to relate to Rosie and the inner conflicts she deals with personally and professionally. She has many supportive people in her life, if she can only recognize that fact. Perhaps that's a big lesson for all of us to take to heart.

One thing that I appreciated was that the author's note was included in the audiobook. That is always a huge win for me as mainly an audiobook reader. I was a little disappointed that the acknowledgments were not included though.

The narrator did a nice job of reading the story. I personally think I would have enjoyed it more if this was the first book I had her narrate. She also read The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley, that Courtney Walsh also wrote. Even though it's been quite awhile since I had listened to that book, I definitely connected Rosie to Isadora in my mind because of the same narrator.

I did receive an advanced e-book and audiobook from Thomas Nelson, Zondervan Fiction Audio and Netgalley. I am happily leaving an honest review.

4.5 stars rounded up

I am a huge fan of Courtney Walsh. I was so excited to get my first audiobook of hers! Everything’s Coming Up Rosie is absolutely adorable and charming. The story of Rosie and her adventures leading the theatre at the Senior Center was so enjoyable. The characters were all so entertaining, especially the love interest Booker. Highly recommend!

Jorjeana Marie does a great job narrating.

Thank you Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Audio for an early copy. All opinions are my own.

Rosie has also dreamed of being an actress but instead has ended up jobless and homeless. She ends up getting offered a job as a director of a play outside of New York. She isn't aware that the play is actually set at a retirement home with senior citizens as actors. This is a sweet story with some funny moments tied throughout. The love interest was a nice subplot which could have benefited from being more flushed out.
The audiobook narrators voice was not quite what i was picturing when I thought of rosie and made ot difficult.yo get immersed in the story.

3.5 ⭐

A cute, quirky rom-com perfect for lovers musicals and the theater! The characters are endearing, the romance is sweet and supportive, and the journey to believing in yourself was heartwarming.

I love audiobooks but couldn't quite connect with the narrator but that didn't keep me from enjoying the book.

I love, love her books. Humorous and feel good. No stress. Big, big fan. This was a sweet story. A little tiny bit drawn out but that’s ok, extra entertainment. Just an adorable story. Can’t wait to read more of her books! Thanks NetGalley for the advance audio copy to review.

Another hit by Courtney Walsh. This up beat rom com was a sweet quick read.

Rosie Waterman has one to become a working actor. But lately, that hasn't been working out. When she loses her apartment and her job on the same day, she does what she always does--puts herself out there, ready to find the next big thing. But a trip home makes her realize that while she's been struggling to make this dream come true, all her friends have become real adults with careers and weddings and babies on the way. Rosie's been at this for years, and she has nothing to show for it. But how does she simply let go of her dream?

When she's offered a job as the director of a regional theatre's production of Cinderella, she jumps at the chance--even though she's only directed in college and the job is in Door County, Wisconsin, and not in New York. She has no other offers, and at least she'll be getting paid to do something theatrical. But when she arrives, she quickly realizes that the "regional theatre" is actually in a retirement community, and the "actors" are actually senior citizens with no acting experience whatsoever.

Working on the show presents new challenges, forcing Rosie to learn how to step up and be the leader this fledgling theatre troupe needs. The more time she spends with her new cast, the more she begins to rethink what it means to dream big, especially when that big dream hasn't turned out to be at all what she thought it would be. It's not at all what she expected, but could it be exactly what she needs?

Everything’s Coming Up Rosie by Courtney Walsh is a sweet, slow burn romance.

Rosie Waterman has been working to make a name for herself in NYC for years as an actress, but despite what she tells everyone, she has not been successful. To avoid having to come clean to her closest friends and family, she hastily accepts a summer position on the creative team for a community theater production of Cinderella in Wisconsin. She is shocked to learn, after arriving, that she has signed up for work at a senior living community. What ensues is a sweet and charming story where Rosie learns how to open up and tell the truth about herself. We meet an amazing ‘cast of characters’ in the senior community, with Birdie and Arthur being my favorites! She also meets Booker; a physical therapist who is determined to help her find her true self and passion. Overall, I thought this was a really great story. It was a little slow at first, but once she arrived at the senior community, I was hooked. I was a little fearful she would not get her HEA, but thank goodness I did not give up! Single narration was performed by Jorjeana Marie, and she did a fantastic job bringing the characters to life. While this is a romance, that is not the main storyline. The focus of the book is Rosie and her path of self-discovery.

Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Audio, and the author for this audio-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you Thomas Nelson for the gifted ebook and audiobook.

Thinking of this book as a romance, I’d give it 2.5-3 stars. As women’s fiction, though, it’s more of a 4 or 4.25. The cutesy illustrated cover and Courtney Walsh’s name had me expecting more of a romcom, but that’s not quite what this is — and that’s okay. Overall, I'm giving it a 3.5.

The heart of the story is Rosie’s personal journey, and that part really shines. She works through her self-doubt, reconnects with best friends, and learns to let go of all the “shoulds” she’s been carrying. The community around Rosie, especially the quirky old folks, is charming, and I especially loved the special bond between Rosie and one elderly gentleman who both save each other, in a way.

The romance between Rosie and Booker, on the other hand, felt like more of a side note. They have a few meaningful moments, including a surprise date his grandma orchestrates, but overall their relationship didn’t feel well developed and lacked all trace of chemistry.

This is a great pick for readers who enjoy women’s fiction with light romance — heartfelt and full of growth but not heavy on the love story.

Audio: The audiobook is narrated by Jorjeana Marie who you might recognize from The Lost Story, Practice Makes Perfect, or The City Baker’s Guide to Country Living. Her cadence and intonation, plus the emotion she brings, adds depth and richness to the listening experience.

4.5 Stars! A sweet, tender closed-door story!!

Thank you Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for my #gifted ALC. All opinions are my own.

Rosie lost her job and her career on the same day. Coming to the end of one acting disappointment after another, she leaves New York City and heads back home to regroup. Seeing that her friends have their lives together, she doesn't feel like she can be honest with them about the state of her life or how things have been, so she keeps up her "act" that everything is fine.

When she gets a job offer to direct a play in Wisconsin, she immediately jumps on it and heads out. Little does she know the play isn't in the theatre she was thinking, it's actually in a retirement community and the actors are members of the community with little to no acting experience.

The setting of the retirement community and Rosie's newly formed friendship with their resident physical therapist begin a journey of growth for her. She realizes she's been chasing a dream based on a comment made to her during a traumatic time as a child. Her job as director pushes her to find more of her potential and the supportive community she becomes a part of help her determine what she wants her future to look like.

It's a heartfelt story with struggles, growth and newly found family. The romance is tender and built around a newly formed friendship.

I love that Courtney Walsh showed the behind-the-scenes experience of putting on a play production from their years of owning a performing arts studio.

Romance content: Closed-door, just kissing!