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The Summer of Yes

The feel-good story about letting go and taking a chance on life

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Pub Date Jul 2 2024 | Archive Date May 12 2025

Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson


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Description

Sometimes you're so busy writing other people's stories that you lose the plot of your own. Full of heart, joy, and hope, The Summer of Yes features an unlikely female friendship, one crazy road trip, a bookish protagonist, and a slow-burn, kisses only romance. Perfect for fans of Rachel Linden and Annabel Monaghan.

This wasn't how Kelsey Worthington's day was supposed to go. She wasn't supposed to be picking up Starbucks for her smarmy boss. She wasn't supposed to get hit by a car that jumped the curb. And she certainly wasn't supposed to wake up in a hospital room next to Georgina Tate--the legendary matriarch of New York City businesswomen.

Kelsey and Georgina couldn't be more opposite. Kelsey's a dreamer, a writer who questions her own skill. And Georgina is a confident businesswoman whose years of shouldering her way into boardrooms and making her voice heard have made her far too outspoken for the faint of heart.

But now, when Georgina's failing kidneys force her to face some big regrets about the way she's lived her life, the two women recognize they share a common thread. Maybe it's time to confront a few things. They must ask themselves: What if I said yes to everything I've always said no to?

With Georgina as her companion, Kelsey soon finds herself doing things she's never done before. Eating street food. Swimming in the ocean. Matchmaking for Georgina with the help of Georgina's handsome son. And writing her own romance--both in book form and in real life.

So begins the Summer of Yes.

If you're craving a warm, inspiring story that celebrates second chances, new adventures, and what happens when you finally live out of your comfort zone, The Summer of Yes is your next must-read. Join Kelsey and Georgina on a road trip of transformation, friendship, and unexpected love.

Sometimes you're so busy writing other people's stories that you lose the plot of your own. Full of heart, joy, and hope, The Summer of Yes features an unlikely female friendship, one crazy road...


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EDITION Other Format
ISBN 9780840713698
PRICE $17.99 (USD)
PAGES 352

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Featured Reviews

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The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh is a heartwarming story about embracing new experiences and taking risks. When Kelsey Worthington, a dreamer and writer, finds herself in the hospital next to the confident and outspoken Georgina Tate, the two women embark on a journey of self discovery and adventure. As Georgina faces her own regrets, she encourages Kelsey to live life to the fullest and say yes to new opportunities. Together, they explore new experiences, make unexpected connections, and learn valuable lessons about love and friendship. I consistently find joy in Courtney Walsh's delightful novels, and The Summer of Yes delivered!

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The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh is a beautifully sweet and funny story about self discovery and friendships. I have read (and loved) all of Courtney's books and this one just really is something you don't want to miss. Join Georgina and Kelsey on their journey to finding forgiveness and rediscovering the importance of family.

Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh

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Just say YES...to reading this book! 😝
I feel like I say this about all her books that I've read.... but Ahhhhhh! I loved it!! 😍

Not only was it a great story, but it was so uplifting and encouraging. It really makes you think about the things you say yes or no too. Mostly no's 🫣 Makes you want to be brave. Be bold. Do the thing(s) that scare you!

I really enjoyed the characters and the different POVs. They both have excellent character growth in their own ways. Kelsey was a little....annoying in her nosiness, but it could be because that's not my personality at all lol. Still a perfectly likeable character! Georgina! What an attitude she's got! And you can't help but love her and hope she gets her happy ending. Loved all the snark from her, and even some from Kelsey.

I don't want to give anything else away about this book. While it had some heavy-ish topics, it was uplifting and beautiful. I highly recommend this (and any of her books)!

July 2nd, 2024!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction!

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I enjoyed this book. It was funny,romantic, and I had tears in my eyes. I loved how it talked about two different women in different areas Of their lives. The ending was good. I'm grateful that netgalley and the publishers let me read this in exchange for an honest review.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I found this book to be compelling and inspiring as well as humorous. Loved the characters and felt like I was part of their adventure. Such a beautiful, heartfelt story that I will definitely recommend to others…one of the best I’ve read in a long time!

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Thank you Net Galley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC of this Courtney Walsh book "The Summer of Yes". For me this book was a total "YES"! It was a heartwarming story of taking back one's life and making an unexpected friendship along the way. Kelsey Worthington's life is all work and no play. She has fallen into a pattern of saying "no" to anything remotely social or fun. Then a traumatic accident and the chance meeting of a grumpy elderly woman changes the trajectory of both their lives. Georgina Tate is a powerful head of her namesake cosmetic company with a secret of her own. She worked her way to the top in the business world, but made some life-altering sacrifices in the process. Together Kelsey & Georgina enter into a journey to put their lives back into perspective and reclaim the fun. They set off to experience a Summer of Yes together. I loved the main characters and their witty banter. Georgina is a hoot! There is a touch of sweet romance along the way too.
This book will make for the perfect summer beach read!

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I have never given women’s fiction a chance or even a second thought, because those types of stories don’t interest me in any sort of way. But this cover was so beautiful, and I was like, how bad can it be? And oh my goodness, if you can’t already tell by my 5 star rating, I absolutely loved every minute of this book!

The writing, the plot, the characters, the relationships, the romance. Perfection. It is filled with hope, love, forgiveness, saying yes, and second chances. The whole ‘Summer of Yes’ was so eye opening and made me contemplate my own life. Am I doing what brings me joy? Are my relationships with family and friends strong? Am I getting out of my comfort zone, saying yes to things I normally wouldn’t?

I didn’t think we would be getting tons of romance, and I mean that isn’t the main focus, but the romance that we did get was beautiful and tender, and I ate up every moment that Hayden and Kelsey were together. I even enjoyed Georgina’s side of the story, which I thought I wouldn’t. She was a cranky old woman, but when you get her POV, it gives you an empathetic understanding. And her silver fox? Yes please.

Putting the romance aside, the relationship between each character was just ugh, so sweet. Especially Georgina and Kelsey’s relationship. I felt a deep connection to both women. And I truly think all women can relate to them, in their own way.

I just have to say, I never get emotional when I read. Ever. And I cried 3 times! I literally felt every emotion possible throughout this book. It was such a powerful, beautiful story that I am so glad I took a chance on, and I think y’all should too.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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

this book took me on a emotional roll coaster ride.

this isn’t a typical love story. it’s also about friends and family and everything that comes with it. this made me realize that you’ll actually miss out a lot when you’re afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

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This is a great self discovery friendship novel. Perfect for a summer read and for book clubs. The characters are delightful. It is a book that immerses you and makes you think of the relationships in your life. So fun.

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I loved this book so much. I wanted to know how it all played out but also never wanted it to end. It made me feel all of the emotions and shed some tears. It was SO good!! I’d give it more than 5 stars if I could!!

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

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The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh is the perfect book for everyone who has ever wondered how one decision has changed the course of their life. While running errands for her boss, Kelsey is in a car accident that lands her in the hospital. Her roommate ends up being her polar opposite, an older business woman with regrets of her own. Together, they embark on a mission to rewrite their stories and rewrite their regrets. A feel good story of an unusual friendship that changed both of their lives.

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Another wonderful read from Courtney Walsh! I was hooked on the main characters right away. The personality differences between the two had me hooked. This was a really positive read throughout and it was refreshing to have so much joy in one novel. Thank you for the ARC!

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Thank you NetGalley, Courtney Walsh, and Thomas Nelson Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

THIS BOOK IS SO AMAZING AND SWEET! I loved all of the characters and their journeys in life and how one person had such a profound impact on all of them. Saying yes to things you'd often say no too was also a powerful component to this story of self discovery, love, and forgiveness. Such a sweet read! I cant wait to read more by this author.

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The Summer of Yes
Courtney Walsh
Publication Date: July 2, 2024
5/5 stars

I loved this book! Kelsey works as a junior editor with dreams of becoming a writer. One day while picking up coffee, she gets hit by a car which causes her to question the way she is living her life. She ends up sharing a hospital room with the famous Georgina Tate, who is dealing with her own health problems and regrets. Kelsey convinces Georgina go on an adventure called “The Summer of Yes” by saying yes to everything they would normally say no to.

This is a heartwarming story encourages you to live life to the fullest and embrace that all life has to offer. 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.

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The Summer Of Yes by Courtney Walsh is a charming book with a poignant message. The story is about the unlikely friendship of two woman who both have a lot to learn. They pushed and challenged each other along the way as they learned what I really means to say yes to life. A fun, lighthearted story doesn’t mean shallow.

Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Courtney Walsh for the advanced copy.

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Wow! This was such an uplifting read! I absolutely loved the characters, the message and really, just everything about this book! A definite 5 star read for me!

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Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and Courtney Walsh for providing me this ARC.

YES! This is the best way to describe this book.
I absolutely loved this book. It's romantic, funny... I also find the story inspiring and encouraging. Sometimes You just have to take a leap of faith. It's something I'm trying to do as much as possible. Be bold and try something new.

The characters were lovable and I loved the different POVs. The friendship between Georgina and Kelsey is so beautiful. There is also a sweet romance.

I highly recommend this book. It's perfect if you want an uplifting story.

And remember ... just say YES! (Also to reading this book. I promise you, it's worth it.)

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I love Courtney books. This is a great book. Kelsey is a junior editor who wants to be a writer. She gets hit by a car and ends up in a room with Georgina a well known business woman who has failing kidneys. Kelsey decides to do a yes summer where she says yes to all the things she said no to. She talks Georgina into going with her and they build a great relationship. There is renewed love and new love along the way and forgiveness.

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A delightful story about seizing the moment and discovering oneself. When Kelsey's ordinary day turns into something extraordinary, she finds herself alongside the formidable Georgina Tate. Despite their differences, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, learning to say "yes" to life's opportunities. Filled with relatable characters and inspiring messages about courage and love, this is a feel-good read that will leave you smiling and motivated to embrace life's adventures.

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The Summer of Yes is a heartwarming and inspiring story about two women who learn to embrace life and live with no regrets. Kelsey and Georgina are both relatable characters who go on a transformative journey together. The book is full of humor, friendship, and romance, making it a perfect read for anyone looking for a feel-good story. You should say yes to this one!

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Thank you netgalley and Courtney Walsh for the arc of this book.
Kelsey gets hit by a car and wakes up in the hospital Georgina has liver failure and will die if she doesn’t get a new liver but she has a rare blood type and tissue. They meet at the hospital as the hospital put them in the same room together. After the accident Kelsey decides she needs to say yes more to things she normally wouldn’t. She usually just works. So she goes back to the hospital to try to talk Georgina into joining her. Very reluctantly Georgina agrees. At first they just do things in nyc they haven’t done before but then Kelsey has other plans that she doesn’t tell Georgina about. This is a book about love, hope and forgiveness both Kelsey and Georgina grow a lot along the way. I absolutely recommend reading this book.

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It was cold and snowy when I requested this book from @netgalley and yes, I judged this one by its cover. As soon as my request was approved, it magically turned 75 degrees and sunny! Signs are everywhere if we stop and take the time to appreciate them. When a serious accident lands Kelsey in the hospital, the universe sends her a roommate notable for her accomplishments. I could absolutely close my eyes and imagine women like Georgina who have come into my life and absolutely inspired me in a life-altering way. Sometimes it takes a little (or big) life shake-up to remind us to take a step back and see the bigger picture. The Summer of Yes is an absolute beautiful and inspiring book that reminds us that instead of a yes day, we need the yes life we are worthy of!

Review is posted on Goodreads and will be on Instagram later in March!

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

This novel was really cute!! I loved the relationship between Kelsey and Georgina, but the relationships for all of the characters were realistic and incredibly well-written!

It is a love story, but it deals with a lot more than that. It talks about finding yourself, the value of relationships, the importance of caring for others and yourself.

It’s also the perfect length. Nothing really dragged, it was all done really well! I would definitely recommend this book!

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I found this book to be enjoyable with a good flow that captured my attention throughout the story. I typically am more into thrillers; however this fictional novel kept me entertained and was a page turner. It is a positive book about friendship and love. I felt like I was with them in the adventure and enjoyed the ride. Say YES to this read :)

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I absolutely ADORED this book! It had everything that I could ask for in a Courtney Walsh book. The characters were well developed and I found myself staying up way past my bedtime to sneak a few more chapters in. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this amazing book! I will definitely be sharing it with all of my fellow book lovers!

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such a great feel good book about friendship and some hardships. i found myself smiling all throughout this book. excellent work!!!!

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I am obsessed with Courtney Walsh. I've not read a book from her that has been less than 5 stars and this was no different.

Kelsey meets her icon Georgina after she lands in the hospital. While both MCs are very different, considering the generational gap, they realize each has something to teach the other. A road trip brings Georgina to her past while helping Kelsey realize a new future. This story was uplifting, wholesome, sweet, and heartwarming. It was a story of second chances for both MCs. I laughed and cried.

You will get witty banter, unexpected friendships, second chances, and encouragement to just say YES. It truly made me think if I was living my life to its fullest potential and not letting anything hold me back.

Say YES to this book on July 2, 2024.

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Kelsey Worthington is a junior editor, leading a life of routine until a near-death experience shakes her to the core. In the hospital, she meets Georgina Tate, a successful businesswoman facing her own mortality. Inspired by Georgina's regrets and determined to live life to the fullest, Kelsey embarks on a journey of saying yes to new experiences. Thus, The Yes Plan is born, leading them on adventures filled with joy, forgiveness, and unexpected connections.

Where do I even begin? This book had me in tears—in the best possible way. It's a story that tugs at your heartstrings, filled with themes of love, forgiveness, and the courage to embrace life's uncertainties. I found myself rooting for Kelsey and Georgina, cheering them on as they navigated their Summer of Yes and discovered the beauty of living fearlessly.

What I loved most about "The Summer of Yes" was its ability to evoke a range of emotions. From moments of joy and hope to instances of love and forgiveness, Courtney Walsh beautifully captures the essence of human connection. The characters were incredibly relatable, and their growth throughout the story was both inspiring and heartwarming.

With a blend of contemporary fiction and romance, "The Summer of Yes" is a book that leaves a lasting impression. It encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and consider the power of saying yes to new adventures. So, if you're looking for a feel-good read that will leave you uplifted and inspired, mark your calendars for its release on 7/2/2024. Trust me—you won't want to miss it!

Big thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing my an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and freely given.

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I received this as an ARC from Net Galley. I’ve read several of her other books and was curious about this one. Perfect quick summer read! Brought tears to my eyes at the end. Loved it and it was hard to put down! Definitely needs added to everyone’s summer to be read list.

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I am beginning to think that Courtney Walsh is able to read minds from a long distance. She’s in Illinois and I’m in California, but once again she’s crafted a story that resonates in my heart and soul.

When I turned 55 I chose to have a year of doing things I’d never done before. Little things like coloring my hair to big things like going to a gun range.

It was freeing and fun and exhilarating. And then I went back into my shell and have been there for the last few years.

So I totally fell in love with Kelsey. And Georgina. And I love a man quite a lot like Dylan, and have a son who has the same kind of heart as Hayden.

I laughed, I cried, and at one point had to stop reading because I couldn’t see through my tears. Just like Isadora Bentley, she’s captured what it is to want to live authentically, with joy, a little risk, and a whole lot of yes.

My thanks to the publisher for an advance copy. My review is honest and has not been solicited.

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Just say YES to this book! I love anything by Courtney Walsh because I can always count on a fun, uplifting read and this is no exception. I love the friendship between Kelsey and Georgina is sweet and inspiring. This book has a fun romance, but to me the focus on friendships and loving life to the fullest was a nice change of pace.

This is a great read anytime, but really perfect for summer. I can't wait to read again this summer!


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

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YES to everything I look for in a book!! I was over the moon to receive an advanced copy, and I devoured it in one sitting. This is my first book to read by Courtney Walsh, and it won’t be my last. Huge thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the advanced copy. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Publication date July 2, 2024.

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Thank you to Net Galley and Thomas Nelson Fiction Publishing for an advanced reader copy of this title (publish date July 2, 2024). Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Kelsey Worthington wakes up in the hospital after being hit by a car while she was walking to work. After her near-death experience she realizes that in her thirty-two years of life, she's never done anything remarkable. She's trying to work her way up in the publishing world, but because she works so hard, she's neglected her actual life.

Georgina Tate is the founder of Tate Cosmetics and is a legend to businesswomen in New York. Her kidneys are failing, and she is waiting to die, filled with regret about her life's choices. She gave up her family to become the successful businesswoman she aspired to be. She's seventy-five years old and is all alone.

The two women end up in the same hospital room and realize that they have some things in common. They both valued their jobs over living their lives. Kelsey has a revelation after talking with her mom and realizes that her life is lackluster because of all the times she chose to say no to opportunities. So, the two women decide to ask themselves "What if I said yes to everything I usually say no to?" They embark on the summer of yes.

This book was moving and powerful. I laughed out loud at times, and at others, I had tears streaming down my face. I found the writing to be thought provoking and inspiring. "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 boring. And it should be lived to the fullest." This is one of those books that is going to stay with me forever.

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Summer of Yes is officially one of my favorite books! The story is sweet and enduring and has so many real life applications! I found myself being able to apply so many lessons from this fictional story to my real life. It was almost as if there was a non fiction book buried within but told in a fun way that made it not feel like work. Go out and get this book!

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Wonderful book! I could not put the book down once I began reading it. Excited for it to be released. I will recommend it to everyone I know!

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This delightful, heartwarming story got my attention from the very beginning. Having read many books by this author, I have learned her characters always draw me right in from the very beginning. They are relatable, lovable and often have a delightful sense of humor.
The day Kelsey walked out of Starbucks and was hit by a car on the sidewalk was life-changing. Kelsey ended up in the hospital for several days and was thankful to be alive. She ends up with an unexpected roommate, Georgina Tate, well-known for her very successful Tate Cosmetics. Georgina is not happy to have a roommate, however there were no single rooms available.
Georgina is a wealthy, powerful woman, who gave up everything, including her family, to focus on building her cosmetic company. She is accustomed to having things go her way, she also has very few friends and work is her main focus in life. In order to even talk and visit with her roommate, Kelsey is asked by Georgina’s assistant to sign a standard nondisclosure ensuring she won’t tell anyone Georgina is in the hospital.
Although Kelsey aspires to be a writer, she is an editor at a New York publishing company. She pretty much keeps to herself except for work. She has few friends and she likes it that way. She mainly says yes to work, and no to everything else.
When she gets out of the hospital, Kelsey makes an important decision to quit saying no and to spend the summer saying yes. That includes attending a family dinner of her best friend, who she usually says no to; trying new food; and she is determined to take the famous, wealthy Georgina Tate along with her on a summer of saying yes. Georgina hasn’t seen her husband or son for twenty years because she was so absorbed in building her business, they eventually moved away.
Although Georgina has a serious health condition that could cut her life short at any time, Kelsey manages to coerce her to join her on a road trip. Although Georgina starts out unenthusiastically, Georgina’s life is about to take a new turn, right along with Kelsey’s. Both of them learn that it can be a lonely place when you always say no and it is risky to say yes to the unknown, however, the rewards are far greater.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

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This book was so much fun. Between the relationships and the banter and the New York City setting, I just had a great time reading this. It was touching and funny, and I loved it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks so much to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC.

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"Say yes, It could change your life."
Courtney Walsh has knocked it out of the park again. This is probably my favorite of hers to date. They just keep getting better and better. It felt a little fake at the beginning that these two people with their two different medical conditions would be placed in a hospital room together but after that the book really took off. I am so glad that everyone in this book got a happy ever after. It was so sweet and endearing. I loved all the characters and I can just picture Meryl Streep playing Georgina if this was a movie.

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An absolute 10. Perfect book, it made me laugh, cry, feel. I loved it. I want to reread it already! The writing was brilliant, characters were loveable, plot was believable, endearing, hilarious, and delightful. I LOVE this book!!!!

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5⭐️

✨road trip
✨second chance
✨friendship
✨dual POV
✨perfect beach read

A heartwarming story about how life’s unpredictability can lead to self discovery, overcoming fears, and mending of our most important relationships. Kelsey and Georgina find friendship in the unlikeliest of places, and it leads them on an adventure of a lifetime.

Quite honestly, I struggled with the first 30% of this book. But soon after, the characters really started to capture me, and as the story built, I couldn’t put it down. So if you are unsure, keep going!

Lastly, this author plays in a few different genres. If you’re looking for a romance novel, this isn’t it. This leans much more women’s fiction/chick-lit with a hint of a love interest and an HEA.

📚Thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Courtney Walsh for the ARC of The Summer of Yes.

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What an inspiring story about love, friendship, forgiveness, and second chances. I absolutely love Walsh’s writing style and the banter between Georgina and Kelsey had me cackling. The relationship they formed was so wholesome. I was smiling throughout this one and it was hard to put down. It was atmospheric and the coastal setting had me craving a summer getaway.

I truly loved everything about this book and Courtney Walsh has easily become a favorite author of mine. This one will have you reflecting and wanting to live life to the fullest. Also the cover just makes me so happy 🥹

The Summer of Yes will be out on July 2nd - just in time to add to your summer reading list! 💛

Thank you NetGalley & Thomas Nelson Fiction for this ARC!

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This story of an unlikely friendship is such a wonderful story! I couldn't put it down! Kelsey is the woman we all can identify with--a good life that going well, but not a great life that's full of risks and adventures and great rewards. Meeting Georgina is a most unconventional way gives this book the twist that turns it into such a great adventure as we go along with them on a summer of never saying no. Their adventure in New York is laugh out loud funny and, although there's more to Georgina (that's all I'll say so I don't give anything away!) than what I expected, it only makes the two women's friendship stronger and their Summer of Yes that much more special. Highly recommend this book!

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I loved absolutely everything about this book. I thought that there was no way that this could live up to my first Courtney Walsh book (Isadora Bentley) but it absolutely did. I loved the characters and their development throughout the novel, I loved the plot, and I didn't want this book to end. Add this to your summer reading list!!!

Thank you to Netgalley, Courtney Walsh, and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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. 😊

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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.

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