The Summer of Yes
with Tanya Eby (Narrator); Cathi Colas (Narrator)
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Pub Date Jul 2 2024 | Archive Date Jul 10 2026
HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Thomas Nelson Fiction
Talking about this book? Use #TheSummerofYes #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!
Description
Sometimes you’re so busy writing other people’s stories that you lose the plot of your own.
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.
Available Editions
| EDITION | Audiobook, Unabridged |
| ISBN | 9780840713865 |
| PRICE | |
| DURATION | 11 Hours, 29 Minutes, 45 Seconds |
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 607 members
Featured Reviews
“We all need someone to believe in us”
This book was a breath of fresh air. Courtney Walsh is something special. She wrote this fabulous book about fears and life and mortality. About love and friendships and forgiveness. About it never being too late to change your life.
This book was exactly what I needed to challenge my own mindset and to take me on a wonderful journey.
You can expect ⬇️
Dual perspectives
Some Romance (the sweet kind)
Disrupters (the good kind)
Never too Late
Unlikely Friendships
When overcrowding lands Kelsey and Georgina in the same hospital room… a friendship does not form. However, there is a bond. Kelsey is a bit like a dog with a bone in how she peruses Georgina (her idol) and how she desperately wants to change both of their lives.
It was wonderful. I enjoyed this audiobook so much.
Thank you Harper Collins for the #gifted ALC to read and review
What a beautiful story! Makes you feel all the emotions! Happy, sad, hurt and grateful. A story of family brought together with a happy ending!
Monica L, Reviewer
This book was such a delight! The Summer of Yes is the story of two women saying yes to life by chasing experiences, seeking forgiveness, and creating new connections. I loved the contrast of the dual-POV, with Kelsey closer to the beginning of her adult and professional life and Georgina closer to the end of hers, it made for interesting perspectives. Their shared lack of filter made them endearing characters and added fun humor.
After enjoying the ARC of this book, I was pleased to find that the audiobook made it even better. The narrators were spot on for the characters - the voice of Kelsey perfectly peppy, and the voice of Georgina perfectly acerbic. Courtney Walsh has quickly become an auto-read author for me as her books always leave me with a feeling of joy and contentment. I highly recommend you say yes to The Summer of Yes!
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio for gifting me with an ALC to review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Reviewer 1368799
I am a big fan of Courtney Walsh’s novels and really enjoyed listening to this audiobook. There are themes of self discovery and friendship amidst it. I especially loved the character development.
Reviewer 914314
I absolutely ADORED this audiobook! Courtney Walsh is a favorite of mine and she absolutely KILLED IT with this one! This was the perfect summer read!
Thank you to Thomas Nelson for the gifted audiobook!
If you say YES to anything this summer, say YES to reading this book!
I absolutely loved this book and can't think of one negative thing to say if I wanted to. Absolutely the happy and feel-good story I needed!
When Kelsey wakes up in a hospital after a car accident that she doesn't remember, she is (not warmly) greeted by her hospital roommate, Georgina. Against all odds and against Georgina's will, the two of them strike up a plan to have a summer of saying YES where they have previously said no to adventure, opportunities, dates, etc. etc.
Along the way they learn a lot about themselves & each other, find (or re-find) love, friendship, purpose, and ultimately a second chance at life!
I absolutely loved the progression of watching Kelsey and Georgina go from having nothing in common to sharing....well, you'll just have to read it to find out what they share in the end!
This story is light and happy and will be the perfect beach read this summer!
Read if you enjoy:
- Unlikely friendships
- Second chance romances
- Closed door romances
- Saying YES to adventures
- Books that feel like hugs
I think this is Courtney's best book to date and I can't wait to read what she writes next!
Reviewer 957659
This story is written in dual timelines between Kelsey and Georgina and both FMCs are completely lovable for different reasons. Loved the friendship that grew between the two ladies and the message of forgiveness and grace. The way that Dylan showed Georgina grace was so inspiring!
Long story short, I appreciated this story for many different reasons but mainly being that I am always actively working on saying “Yes” when I can, while I can, because these days aren’t promised (especially with my boys while they’re little). Time isn’t promised so I wanna make sure I’m always making the best of the time God is giving me on earth.
“Life can’t be lived in reverse.”
Author’s Note— absolutely loved it! I definitely was able to relate to these women who respond “no” simply out of fear. I’ve been working on saying yes like I said and doing more things that I’d usually be afraid to do the last couple months. It’s scary, but it’s been great and totally worth it! Thank you @CourtneyWalsh for writing this book!
Beautiful & heartwarming! Courtney Walsh gives us a feel-good, second chance story with a little bit of a love story in between! It was so good! Grab this book for your beach bag/pool bag this summer!!
Audio narration was amazing!
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own!!
I listened and had the ebook for this book and I really enjoyed that. This story is such a good one and honestly my favorite by Courtney Walsh! I binged this book and can’t wait for everyone to read it!
Reviewer 1013085
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK!!! It’s one of my favorite books of all time!! ❤️ I will reread this often 😊 I connected so well to Kelsey and loved Georgina so much! I loved the grumpy vs sunshine in the friend dynamic. The author did a great job contrasting strong women with cinnamon roll guys. I loved the different references throughout to old movies, tv shows and music! I loved the summer vibes. Absolutely a most wonderful story of self discovery, friendships and love! Faith references were mild but well done. I also enjoyed both narrators doing the two different povs! Perfect 🤩
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the opportunity to listen to the audiobook.
Susan H, Reviewer
I love the philosophy of the book. To say yes to new experiences, opportunities, and people. Even though much of this book is very unrealistic, I loved it. I just couldn't put it down. Kelsey has a near death experience which causes her to take a good look at her life. Her unlikely roommate at the hospital is a cosmetics legend and powerhouse. She's used to getting exactly what she wants and she wants it immediately. She never expected a young nobody to take charge and to make her make some changes in her life.
I found the book absolutely delightful. The characters were great. As I said, unrealistic, maybe, but I really liked them.
I listened to the audio version. Both narrators were great and their voices matched the ages and personalities of their characters. I haven't read any of Courtney Walsh's books before, but now I will be on the lookout for her work.
I adored this book! It even brought me to tears at one point! My favorite Christian song was even mentioned. Highly recommend this positive, thought provoking, woman empowering novel.
Many thanks to Net Galley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've read two of Courtney Walsh's books and thought they were really cute (patiently waiting for the third of the Holidays with Hart series) but The Summer of Yes is her best yet. Honestly, one of my favorites of 2024!
Georgina and Kelsey were so relatable. They both had such beautiful character development you just can't help but root for them. Anytime they both talked about work, lack of relationships, not enjoying life and wishing they could do things differently I couldn't help but nod in agreement. Maybe I also need a Summer of Yes. I feel like many readers will be able to identify with this book.
This is a story of taking chances and saying yes, finding friendship with someone you least expect and finding love even when it isn't part of your plan. A must read for the Summer!
Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the ARC. Loved it.
Educator 1319013
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy of this audio arc. Very sweet summer read- older successful business woman at end of life and younger girl just beginning her career learning to deal with life by spending the summer together saying yes to previously avoided activities. Narrator captures the emotion and excitement in the characters well. Characters were so relatable and left me wanting more.
Because it's Summer, I've been reading a lot of romance novels and keeping the mood light. Every one of them have some typical themes and similar stories, but this is my first Courtney Walsh book, and it's different! It has a more original story, and I like all of the characters. Usually there's a dispute or one of the characters is making a selfish and unlikeable decision that doesn't really makes sense but causes a dispute. This book doesn't! I had so much fun listening to the audiobook, and it makes me want to read more of Courtney Walsh's books. I'm not sure if Tanya Eby or Cathi Colas narrate anymore of her books, but I would highly recommend checking out anything they narrate as well. They did an excellent job. If you want a happy story that is also a bit inspiring, this one is for you!
Heather H, Reviewer
I have read all of Courtney Walsh's books and I have to say this might be my favorite. This book was absolutely beautiful! The narrators Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas did a wonderful job telling this story! When Kelsey has a near death experience she ends up recovering in the hospital with Georgina Tate. Kelsey decides she needs to change her life and start saying yes. I loved the banter between Kelsey and Georgina. Georgina is a strong headed woman and she has a past she's not to proud of. Kelsey and Georgina will help each other say YES to things they would normally say no too. They will start learning how to heal and become the people they were meant to be. All the characters in this book are relatable and enjoyable. Courtney did such an amazing job writing this story and definitely makes me want to say yes more myself. I truly can't recommend this book enough. I would also recommend any book by Courtney Walsh as well!
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Thomas Nelson Fiction for allowing me to listen to this ARC for my honest opinion.
Audio format 🎧. A workaholic editor Kelsey has a near brush with death and lands in the hospital after being hit by a car. While in the hospital she meets Georgina, a very successful business woman who is dying from kidney disease.
They set off together in an adventure all about saying “yes” to things. There’s family drama, fun adventures and a whole lot of wonderful messages throughout this book.
Things I loved:
☀️ Audio narration with two narrators was fantastic. Both of them brought the characters to life
☀️ a feel good summer read with great underlying message of saying “yes” to things in life and taking chances
☀️ two very different narratives for the two main characters that really came together as one story
☀️ wonderful setting for a summer read
I don’t know that I would have loved this book so much had I read it in traditional format but the audio version of this story was so wonderful! I highly recommend listening to this one if you can. A 5/5 for me!
Thank you to Harper Collin’s and Net Galley for the a copy of the Audiobook in exchange for a review.
Just say yes to this slow burn romance because it may change your life.
After a near death accident and working non stop all her life. Kelsey decides to take time for what matters and says yes to everything including a road trip with an elderly lady. Which changes her life forever.
Thank you to NetGallery and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Educator 1079704
I loved this!
What would your summer look like if you chose to face your fear and say, “Yes” to the things that intimidate you? It isn’t about giving up your morals, but instead, taking a leap of faith to pursue the things that really matter.
Huge thank you to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the opportunity to enjoy this audiobook!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Courtney Walsh for advanced access to the book and audio in exchange for my honest review!
Courtney Walsh is a new to me author. I absolutely adored The Summer of Yes and have already added some of her other books to my Amazon/Audible cart.
This is a perfect summer read. You'll be inspired to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Say "Yes" to adventure and discover a whole new side of yourself.
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! The audiobook version of this book is equally fantastic, featuring outstanding narrators.
Reviewer 1102150
What a book. How is this my first Courtney Walsh book? I’m going to add more of her books to my TBR pile. This is a great book about saying yes and second chances at life along with a delightful romance. We romance readers are so spoiled with so many great books coming out this summer. The narrators are top notch too!! They bring such warmth and depth to the characters, I just loved it.
I received an arc from netgalley and the publisher.
This includes an audiobook review...
I've recently become a fan of Courtney Walsh's romcom books. I love that she her books are lighthearted and fun without spicy sex scenes. She includes witty banter and joy. I kept reminding myself of those things as I read this book.
This is not a romcom. It has more women's fiction vibes with some romance. To be honest, I prefer romance to women's fiction, mostly because women's fiction get seem to get heavy at times. But I kept reminding myself that this was Courtney Walsh and she didn't let me down!
Just as her book about Isadora Bently made the reader think, this one did as well. But with lots of humor and lighthearted moments. Granted I felt that the stroy took a little while to get going, but I stick with it and was happy I did.
I follow Courtney Walsh on Instagram and as I was reading this book, I kept thinking that it sounded very personal. Then I read the author's note at the end and my suspicion was confirmed.
As far as listening to the audiobook, it has 2 narrators, both female because they are really the main focus of the book. Georgina is read by a woman with a bit of a gravel to her voice. I thought that was perfection! The other narrator does a fine job as well. I actually listened to the whole book in a day. It was delightful and kept me entertained whole cleaning houses and mowing my yard.
Many thanks to Zondervan Audio, Thomas Nelson and Netgalley for the chance to listen to this book. I'm voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Kav R, Reviewer
Delightfully quirky and emotionally deep all mixed up in the best of ways. I laughed. I cried. I cheered. I swooned(!!!) Honestly, Courtney Walsh delivered so much more than I was expecting (and I was expecting a lot because she is one of my fave contemporary romance authors.)
The perfect blend of zingy banter and soul-searching discussions that pulled on all my emotions. This is one of Thomas Nelson’s general market selections so no faith content per se but there are some moving moments involving forgiveness and overcoming fear that are very impactful. I was especially touched by Hayden’s story. What an example! So much wisdom learned from some tough life lessons.
The story is told from two points of view — our young heroine Kelsey and the irascible, grumpy, gruff and all things grinch-y, Georgina Tate, a successful septuagenarian with a lot of attitude. The way Walsh throws these two together and then pits them against each other is sheer brilliance and makes for such an entertaining read.
There’s so much heart to this story – and not just the romance kind. Beautifully layered storytelling that made me pause and ask myself some pointed questions right along with Kelsey and Georgina. Love when a book causes reflection and prompts change and this one did that for me.
Part of my ‘reading’ enjoyment came from listening to the audio edition expertly narrated by Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas. They both added so much zest and personality to their performances that I could easily picture every scene playing out in my mind. I’ve become somewhat of an audio book snob and this edition of ‘The Summer of Yes’ easily makes my top ten audio books of the year.
My thanks to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction Audio along with Net Galley for providing me with a copy of this book.
Kelsey Worthington says no a lot…in fear of getting hurt or looking silly and not living her dream…well, her reachable dream since she is sure she isn’t good enough to be a writer. In the blink of an eye, she is in a hit-and-run accident while getting coffee. When Kelsey wakes up in the hospital, she is sharing a room with one of the most successful businesswomen, Georgina Tate. Georgina also has said no to a lot to be a success. Their similarities end there. Somehow, these two spend the summer saying “yes” to their adventures together.
This was a sweet novel, full of reminders that you should say “yes”, that words only have as much power as you let them have, and to take chances.
Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas brought life to these characters!
Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction, for an advanced copy. I always love Courtney’s books.
Sydney T, Educator
The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh was a Yes for me! This book was a great mix between romance, second chances, and following dreams. I loved the story line and how easily the characters flowed through the book to a perfect ending.
The narration by Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas was spot on. The voices matched the characters and I enjoyed the back and forth between their points of view.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audiobook of The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh.
the was such a good read. It focused more on character growth and romance is sprinkled in. From friends to lovers to second chance romance to families and being reuited with your son and husband this truth has everything. I loved Goergina and Kelsey’s banter and just truly fell in love with their relationship with each other.
The character growth was outstanding during this. Both Georgina and Kelsey became their true selves and fell back in love with their lives by the end of this and i couldn’t have loved it more.
This engages you from page one and there is a relatable catcher for everyone on my opinion.
The narration was very well done and i enjoyed the novel to a higher extent, in my opinion, due to the narrators.
The Summer of Yes follows Kelsey Worthington after she is hit by a car and starts questioning how her life is going. I didn't realize how much I needed this book until I read it. I highlighted 18 passages in this book. EIGHTEEN! I have never highlighted more than four. I have prioritized work to the point of saying no to everything in order to conserve my energy or work insane hours. Looking back on the past few years, I don't see nearly enough memories that I could. So here starts my Summer of Yes.
Perfect for anyone who is stuck in a cycle of saying no to even the little things, anyone who is feeling burnt out or underappreciated at work, or anyone who is struggling with regret of things you've given up to prioritize your job. Even if none of these things apply to you, I still think you would like this book if you enjoy fun contemporary novels with a dash of clean romance.
I received an ARC/ALC from Thomas Nelson Fiction | Thomas Nelson/HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Thomas Nelson Fiction via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
THANK YOU to Courtney Walsh for creating this "disruptor".
Reviewer 459306
I love this book! I will listen again! I really enjoyed the voices. Although I did wish there was a man’s voice, well, because I love hearing a man’s voice. But it didn’t distract me and I would listen again!
This book was full of poignant thoughts. Really about letting go of the things we might think won’t hurt us, but really will be to our detriment, if we don’t! I truly enjoyed the book and absolutely love this author!
Thank you to Net Galley for the opportunity to give my thoughts and opinions, they are all my own!
Book Trade Professional 448557
This was adorable. It took me a little while to get into it as I thought the beginning was too slow. But once it rolled along, I fell in love with
Georgina and Kelsey. I'm glad I kept going because this was a fun read from the relationships, the quick banter and the marvellous New York City setting it was just a great ride.
I loved the idea of taking chances in life, saying yes to things and finding true friendships when you least expect them. This is the perfect summer reader.
Thank you NetGalley, Thomas Nelson Fiction and Zondervan Fiction Audio for the audio version. This made my morning walks go swiftly!
Danielle A, Reviewer
This book absolutely needs to be added to your TBR stack!
Courtney Walsh knows how to write a super fun, lighthearted book that really makes you question if you are saying yes to the opportunities that come your way!
The plot follows Kelsey, an assistant editor who’s given up everything for a career she’s no longer sure she wants. After getting hit by a car and hospitalized, she meets Georgina, a remarkable businesswoman nearing the end of her career. Georgina, who also sacrificed everything for success, is now facing major health issues. These two unlikely friends (grump/sunshine😍) spend their summer saying yes to life, and their journey is heartwarming and lovely!
This dual POV beauty is out July 2nd and you should preorder today! OH and the audiobook narrators are chef kiss!❤️
Big thanks for the ALC from Thomas Nelson Fiction via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
#BookRecommendation, #MustRead, #CourtneyWalsh, #SummerReading, #bookloversclub
After immediately finishing The Summer of Yes I could not even think about another book. Very rarely do I want a book to be longer, this was one of those rare times.
Kelsey has a near-death experience which makes her take a closer look at her life. She realizes she needs to say yes to more and go out of her comfort zone. Kelsey does not want to be full of nothing but regrets anymore. While in the hospital she shares a room with an older woman, Georgina. Georgina is a successful businesswoman who sacrificed her family to be successful. Kelsey is determined to drag Georgina into her summer of yes and help fix Georgina’s family while fixing herself.
Kelsey and Georgina’s relationship is one of my favorite book relationships ever. It quickly became a witty grandma and granddaughter relationship and it was truly amazing to watch blossom. Georgina didn’t get to where she is by being nice so seeing her let her guard down and be human was great. From the little things we learned in her inner monologues or to her sticking her tongue out at Kelsey when Kelsey calls her a child. Everything was great.
Kelsey wants to fix Georgina’s relationship with both her estranged husband and son but doesn’t expect to catch feelings in this journey.
There’s so much I want to say about this book I just don’t want to give it all away. Put this book on the top of your list and read it as soon as possible.
Thank You NetGalley and Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Fiction
Release date: July 2nd, 2024
I loved this book!
It started out with Kelsey getting in a accident and waking up in a hospital bed not sure what happened and she meets Georgina Tate a successful businesswoman and after she lives the summer of yes happens and she takes Georgina along the ride with her.
There is a small romance but it’s not the main plot of the story.
It’s also a story about bringing family together and realizing that people matter and care for you
The Summer of Yes is a heartwarming book about second chances. When Kelsey meets Georgina in the hospital after an almost fatal accident, she realizes she wants to stop saying no to things and start saying yes! The two set off on adventures of fun and choosing things they’ve postponed or said no to. Along the way they meet up with Georgina’s past and her need for forgiveness. A cute romance blossoms as Kelsey meets Georgina’s son. I really enjoyed this book! It was exciting and fun while having a meaningful takeaway: we don’t live forever so say yes to what makes you happy. This heartwarming book had me tearing up and wanting to see how things ended. I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in trade for my honest opinion. My thoughts are my own.
YouTube Review: 07/03/24
YouTube Handle: KeenCat
Alyssa D, Librarian
This was my first Courtney Walsh book and I could not stop listening to it! I loved it. It was such a heartfelt book. Maybe this summer will be a summer of yes for me
Carla J, Reviewer
The Summer of Yes is a story of friendship, family, new beginnings with some romance. Kelsey Worthington is a junior editor, although her dream was to be an author. She is a workaholic, who doesn't like to venture out of her comfort zone. She says "no" more often than she says "yes". After her scare, she decides to shake things up. While she is in the hospital, she shares a room with Georgina Tate, a wildly successful businesswoman. Georgina sacrificed everything to become the woman she is today, including her family. Now she has failing kidneys, with only a transplant to save her life, if a match can be found. Kelsey decides they both need to change their lives and comes up with the idea of a road trip and "The Summer of Yes". What Georgina wasn't expecting was Kelsey surprising her with a visit to the town where her husband and son live. This is the place where both women can start their new beginnings.
This book has such a great message. How much do you want to give up to be successful? Is it worth it all in the end? I really enjoy books with multi-generational friendships and this was another good one. Georgina has so many regrets. All she has is her company, but that isn't enough. I liked that she was willing to take a chance and go on this adventure with Kelsey. Her son Hayden and her ex-husband still loved her, but only wanted her back if she was ready and made the effort. I really liked both of them, their love and loyalty were amazing. Kelsey's journey was a bit different. She has been told before that she doesn't have what it takes to be a published author, so it is a huge step to try again. I liked how the relationship between Kelsey and Hayden developed. He knew who she was, but she didn't realize it at first. He was such a likable character, caring, honest, hard working and forgiving. This is a story that will make you look at your own life and rethink your priorities. It was an emotional story and had my feelings all over the place. This was a great story of love, forgiveness, reconciliation, friendship, priorities, our mortality and more. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas. Having two narrators gave distinct voices to the main characters of a young idealistic woman and a crochety older woman. I enjoyed the audiobook and recommend it if you enjoy this format.
This is my first read by Courtney Walsh, and I must say, I loved it!
This is the story of Kelsey, whom after an accident makes an unlikely friend in an old business woman named Georgia. They decide, one rather unwillingly, to go on an adventure of saying "yes" to all the things they would have previously have said no to and it because a life-changing experience for them both.
I loved how this story wrapped up in a clean little bow. I also appreciate that, although there was a bit of a romance, it was clean and tasteful. I listened to the audio version. There were two narrators and both sounded perfect for the age and personalities of the women.
I loved this book! I have read many books by Courtney Walsh and this is far and above my favorite. The relationship between Kelsey and Georgina was everything! It can be recommended to women of any age and everyone will learn something about themselves after reading it. The narration was wonderful. I may even listen to it again!
Thank you HarperCollins Christian Publishing | Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this audiobook.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6588611272
Thank you to @netgalley for the ALC, all opinions are my own.
My feelings about The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh are not complicated- I love it! You know the crabby elderly side character who always steals the show? In this book you are gifted her as one of the two main characters!
Sunshine Kelsey Worthington has a serious wake-up call and manages to get grumpy Georgina Tate to begrudgingly join her on a “Summer of Yes”. So much happens in the pages of this book, and to steal Kelsey’s words, “Some of these sentences are absolute darlings.” Most of them, in fact! Yes, you want to slap an elder sometimes but not only is that mean and illegal, everything Georgina does and thinks is very fitting with her character. Kelsey is hilarious and I would joyfully go on a road trip with her anytime! I was happily going along thinking romance wouldn’t be a main plot point and I was okay with that- but there is more romance than I was expecting! I absolutely KNEW what the third act problem was going to be and I had a wake-up call that I can’t always predict a book’s future. I had a little jaw drop at one point. This book is funny and delightful and can pull at even the tightest of heartstrings.
It took me a couple of chapters to get used to narrators Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas, but soon enough they grew on me as they BECAME the characters. I think they could have gotten away with one narrator, and the main narrator reading Georgina’s sections/ chapters in her Georgina voice, but hey, the more narrators, the merrier.
This book felt like a perfect summer read to me, such a 5 star read, and it will be out in the wild on July 2, 2024. I highly recommend saying YES to a pre-order!
5/5 stars
11 hours 29 minutes at 1x on audio
Clean romance; kisses only
Locations: New York, Driftwood, NC and everywhere in between- there’s a road trip!
Educator 1412211
I loved the story of the friendship between the two women. The journey of how they helped changed each other was touching.
A great beach read!
This is the perfect summer read! For anyone struggling with work, needing hopeful story, or just looking for a fun read, this book is for you. I could not put this one down. From the unlikely friendship to the sarcastic banter, Courtney Walsh had me eating this book up.
Cassidy P, Reviewer
I LOVED this book. It was so sweet and heartfelt. The storyline swaps back and forth between the 2 main characters, Georgina and Kelsey who meet in the hospital after Kelsey was hit by a vehicle. A beautiful friendship blossoms between Georgina and Kelsey which was 😭😭♥️♥️ and I truly loved them both.
Was it anything new and crazy special? No. Was it the absolute best book I’ve ever read? No. But I enjoyed the easiness and storyline so much that nothing else mattered to me. I really enjoyed the “say yes” attitude to things the characters wouldn’t typically do.. and enjoyed even more that Georgina and Kelsey still had the ability to say no to things that weren’t fulfilling to them.
Thank you so much to Netgalley & HarperCollins Christian Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this ARC!
Reviewer 1142540
I absolutely loved this book from start to finish. It was so heartwarming. I knew the moment I started reading it that I was going to be grinning from ear to ear and I did, It was sweet. It was wholesome. It was lovely in every way. Just a good ol dose of sunshine. Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ALC of The Summer of Yes!
Title: The Summer of Yes
By: Courtney Walsh
Genre:
Fiction, Contemporary, Women’s, Chic Lit, Audiobook, Clean Romance
Summary/Review:
You Only Live Once is the overarching theme of this beautifully written novel by Courtney Walsh.
Kelsey Worthington (32), a well known editor, wakes up in the hospital and unbeknownst to her, she’s had a near death experience. Kelsey was hit by a car while walking down the street. Kelsey soon meets her new roommate, Georgina Tate. She is a successful older woman Kelsey looked up to while learning about her in a college course. These two workaholic women quickly learn they have similar lifestyles and personalities. Excited Kelsey and Reluctant Georgina determine they could benefit from a summer of saying yes! And so begins the emotional roller coaster Courtney Walsh has masterfully created! I can’t say enough about my love for this novel!
The transitions between the two different points of views were skillfully orchestrated for the reader to follow. The themes of love, forgiveness, and hope are flawlessly written for the reader to quickly connect and empathize with the characters. The Summer of Yes is a funny, yet heartbreaking novel. I highly recommend this summertime novel! Soon to be published on July 2, 2024.
Thank you Courtney Walsh , Harper’s Collins Christian Publishing, Thomas Nelson Fiction, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
#reluctantreaderreads
#Courtneywalsh
#thesummerofyes
#cleanromance
#NetGalley
#advancedreadereditions
#Harperscollinschristianpublishing
It's a feel-good story that will have you cheering for all the characters!
Kelsey was involved in an accident that jumped started her life, giving her opportunities to say YES to herself and what she wanted. She meets Georgina Tate and strikes up a friendship that takes them on a journey to mend relationships, find joy, seek forgiveness, and trust in yourself. The Summer of Yes is full of heart and hope.
I highly recommend this book!
*Unlikely friendships
*Road Trips
*Small Town
*Family Healing
*Sweet love story
Thank you, NetGalley and Courtney Walsh, for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
I immediately fell in love with Kelsey, as she hits a point in her life where she’s got some choices to make, and she chooses YES. Yes to everything out of her comfort zone and that she typically dismisses. After a minor accident lands her in the hospital and meeting grumpy Georgina, her life is changed and she doesn’t even realize it yet.
Georgina gives Miranda Priestly and Evelyn Hugo all mixed into one and I’m so here for it. She’s a boss ass bitch but only got to that point by sacrificing her family. Because of Kelsey, she’s forced/tricked into reconnecting with her husband and son, and dealing with emotions she has shut down so long ago.
Hayden is truly my favorite. He has endured such heartache in his long but still chooses the positive perspective on things, and has made such a life of happiness for himself. I love his outlook, his demeanor, and the way he can easily let grudges go and look only ahead.
This book was such a refreshing, feel good, easy read. It was so relatable, as someone who second guesses so much, afraid to take risks. Kelsey is so inspiring and makes such an impact but changing her mindset. This is a must read, not just for the summer but for anyone who needs to stop and try-evaluate where they’re at with their life. Easy 5⭐️
I am so so sad that this book came to an end! I have enjoyed every single second of this audiobook. It’s made my drives and my times sat at my work desk so much better and was such a happy, inspiring and uplifting book. I absolutely loved the plot and the concept of this book, it’s different to what I would typically read and was so much better than i expected it to be. I loved the characters and I loved the dynamic between Kelsey and Georgina they made me giggle so much and I love the development in their relationship and their character growth. The romance in this book was sort of unexpected for me I didn’t think it would have much romance and I was pleasantly surprised, I loved Hayden so so much. This book made me want to says YES! Go and do things I’ve been wanting to do, go and try things and stop worrying what people around think. I’ve been giggling, smiling and one pot I even started welling up at my desk listening to this. Truly such a lovely book, I will definitely be recommending and I will definitely be purchasing a physical copy on release day! Thankful I was accepted to experience this book before it came out.
This is my first book by Walsh and I am ready to dive into her backlist. This was a story about not taking life for granted, mending relationships and building new ones. Kelsey and Georgina meets at the hospital when they shared a room. They agreed a plan of yes to doing things they normally say no to.
They end up on a road trip and Georgina is reunited with her estranged son, Hayden. We then see how Georgina and Hayden mends their relationship while Kelsey and Hayden also forms a relationship,
Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas both did great on the narration.
Ohhh this book was sweet and I enjoyed it!
Kelsey is a shelter girl who works and that’s pretty much all she does. When getting coffee for her boss she ends up hit by a car and in the hospital, her hospital roommate is a well known beauty business women, Georgian. when she starts talking to her she starts pondering her own life and decided she is gonna say yes to everything and includes Georgina reluctant at first they make a wonderful friendship over the course of their yes tip! Loved it making my own yes summer as we speak!
This book was adorable and such an easy and entertaining audiobook to listen to. The narrator did a great job with both the male and female voices and I really enjoyed the listening experience.
While it does include some deeper topics (anxiety, broken families and kidney transplant), Walsh approaches them in a gentle way that provides so much hope. Insta-love is one of my least favorite tropes, but the characters acknowledge that their quick and deep feelings for each other are surprising and unexpected, which made it feel more authentic. I loved the banter between Georgina and Kelsey, and enjoyed seeing how they both grew throughout their summer together. What a sweet story that will definitely be added to my list of summer favorites!
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