This is the most heartwarming, emotional, and romantic telling of enduring love that I’ve ever read. It presents such a delicate balance of family estrangement, coming into oneself, and new love. The fact that everything is high-stakes (life, death, second-chance at forever love, etc) and she still keeps the story low-stress really speaks to how fleshed out her characters are here. Miscommunication trope? No, we don’t know her. I loved that in a book about growing into who you want to be, clearly communicating how they felt, and what they wanted seemed to be a focus for their growth.

There’s a lot of serious moments, but there are a lot of fun & swoony moments, too. It’s a beautiful story that is perfect for summer. I listened to the audio and both of the narrators for the two women did an excellent job with the pacing of the plot. Georgina in particular was perfectly cast! In my head she’s giving Emily Gilmore, honey, and she isn’t here to play (unless the prize is a pretzel). 🥨 This entire book is a telling of right person/right time alongside the sweetest second-chance romance of the summer.

4.5⭐️ | 1🌶️

Tropes:
• Road trip
• Found family
• Second chances
• Multi-generational friendships

Wow! Just wow!

While I was quite intrigued by the blurb, I was a bit skeptical coz this was nothing like the usual romances that I read but boy did it blow my mind!

The audiobook is just as delightful as its plot. Both narrators bring boundless energy to the story, especially the woman voicing Georgina. Her narration added so much depth and charm to the character, making it much more engaging.

The power of saying yes is at the heart of this story. Kelsey's life transforms over one summer of embracing yes, bringing her new friendships, confidence, and love. Her character was very relatable at the start and seeing her embrace life and say yes to all these experiences really warmed my heart.

While I loved the idea of changing your life to find yourself, it was Georgina who truly captured my heart. Her sassy, elderly presence reminded me of my grandma (thank you Courtney!)

I loved her writing style and she has created such wonderful characters. I could really relate to Kelsey saying no out of fear and how much of life is missed because of that fear. Her journey has truly inspired me to have my very own Summer (or for someone from Mumbai, ‘Monsoon’) of yes!

I would 1000% recommend everyone to give this book a shot coz you’re going to love it.

This is my first book by Courtney Walsh and I really enjoyed it. Two workaholics that have a big age difference but have so much in common. Georgina was such a great mentor for Kelsey…but Kelsey was sooo good for Georgina. I loved their early interactions. They have amazing banter, sass, and overall dialogue. The romance aspect for both Georgina and Kelsey was sweet, refreshing and filled with new beginnings. Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas deliver an amazing performance. They bring the characters to life with perfect emotion, personality and voice. Thank you NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for the complimentary copy.

I received a free advanced copy of this audiobook on Netgalley.

Uplifting, redeeming, hopeful, unexpected. "The Summer of Yes" by Courtney Walsh was a pleasant listen. While it started off quite slow, after the first 30% I was hooked and wanted to know how it all turned out.

Kelsey, a workaholic twenty-something who never says yes to anything even remotely risky finds herself laid up in a hospital bed after being hit by a car while waiting in line at Starbucks. She is "lucky" to be alive with only minor injuries. Her hospital roommate, Georgina Tate, is not so lucky. The famous make-up mogul has been diagnosed with terminal liver disease unless she finds a donor. The unlikely duo (reluctantly) see themselves in each other and (begrudgingly) embark on what Kelsey dubs "The Summer of Yes"... throwing fear to the side to experience new things.

Kelsey helps Georgina right past wrongs and Georgina helps Kelsey realize her stifled dreams.

The audiobook author was a 2.75 out of 5. The book itself was a 3.75 out of 5.

A freak accident forced Kelsey and Georgina to share a hospital room but that was only the beginning. These two set out on an adventure to say yes for the summer but it leads to so much more. Georgina reluctantly agrees to go but little does she know that Kelsey has a plan for their adventure.

I haven’t read a book by Courtney Walsh that I didn’t love! Her writing makes you laugh and cry while enjoying the story. I immediately fell in love with the characters and found myself invested in the outcome.

I enjoyed the narrators but found that the narrator for Georgina’s point of view read slower than Kelsey’s point of view. I found myself losing interest when listening to Georgina due to the slower pacing.

A big thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for the ALC!

What a sweet, endearing story about the power of saying YES (and NO…but we’ll get to that)! I loved the core message about how it’s never too late to start living a life you love. The characters practically jumped off the page and felt so real, largely because the author leaned into their quirks and all-too-human choices (both good and bad) allowing them to be perfectly imperfect.

There were honestly points where I started getting frustrated by certain decisions, especially with Kelsey who had zero boundaries in the beginning. But then the characters would catch themselves and have these relatable moments of self-awareness. It was refreshing seeing that kind of growth on the page!

This book spans many aspects of life that often lead to regrets, including career paths, love lives, and family dynamics. So, there’s something for everyone. Because who hasn’t had a regret or two? But as I mentioned earlier, this book is about saying NO just as much as it’s about saying YES. And I loved seeing Kelsey and Georgina realize that it’s okay to turn a complete 180 if a certain path in life isn’t bringing you joy. For me, the takeaway was about saying YES to new opportunities, while staying true to who you are. And sometimes that means saying NO.

My one critique is that the book felt long, with some passages repeating the same message from each character’s POV multiple times. And, sadly, I wasn’t a fan of the audiobook and felt that the narration was over-enunciated to the point of distraction. I’m sure it will be great for many listeners! It just wasn’t the right experience for me.

I definitely recommend this book for fans of grumpy/sunshine friendships, found families, second chances, and wholesome summer fun!

I love Courtney Walsh and her writing style. This story was inspiring and uplifting. It’s a story of friendship and self awareness, of character growth, of saying yes and taking a chance. I loved Kelsey and Georgina’s relationship and how helped each other grow and become better version’s of themselves.
Unfortunately I did not love the narration and I think I would have preferred to read it physically. It’s still a great read and I will recommend it.

Chock-full of charm presented with a fun balance of witty banter!!!

The Summer of Yes is LAUGH-OUT-LOUD funny! And… it hurts in all the ways that remind us to get out of our comfort zones!

Also, I adore both Georgia and Kaylee, Kimberly, I mean… Kelsey :)

Mercy! I loved this refreshing, positive, inspiring, book. It was just what I needed!

#TheSummerOfYes #netgalley #ThomasNelsonFiction #womensfiction @CourtneyWalsh @BookShell_F

Huge shoutout to Harper Collins Christian Publishing and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC of "The Summer of Yes" by Courtney Walsh.

The audiobook is a must-listen! The narrators are bursting with energy, making the story super engaging. It was a trip following the characters embrace their time together learning from one another.

This was my first book by Courtney Walsh and I certainly enjoyed it! I loved Georgina! She made the book!

Thank you Netgalley for an e-ARC of The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh!

I remember someone asking me once when was the last time that I tried something new and I truly struggled to recall. From then on I decided that I wanted to embrace the "yes" and try new things. This book is exactly that and I loved it! I also appreciate the clarification of not a bucket list per say, but instead saying yes to what you have been scared to try, too busy to try, too embarrassed to try, etc. The timing also couldn't have been more perfect for this read as I leave for a big "yes" trip of my own this week!

We are following along two POVs; Kelsey, our young up and coming assistant editor, and Georgina Tate, the successful business woman that Kelsey admires. Their paths cross in an unlikely way and never go back after. It just shows that your support system comes in a variety of different ages and demographics.

If you enjoy stories about second chances, starting over, non-steamy romances, cross generational friendships, and family, pick this one up!

An added bonus...As someone who knows the world of kidney failure too well, thank you Courtney for taking your writing platform and bringing awareness to organ donation 💙💚. Ironically, my "summer of yes" consists of competing in my first ever Transplant Games of America. ☺️

I absolutely loved The Summer of Yes! I loved the characters, and their unlikely connection. I loved the fact that it was a friendship story that fueled two love stories. I adored the narrator who read Georgina's chapters. Her voice could not have been more perfect for this character. I also love the overall positive, upbeat vibes of the story that the cover captures perfectly. This book is out tomorrow, and you will definitely want a copy for your pool or beach bag!

I came for a summer of "yeses" but stayed for the sassy old lady.

Thank you Harper Collins Christian Publishing and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the gifted copy of "The Summer of Yes." Courtney Walsh's latest is out tomorrow, July 2nd.

🎧 Listen to this audiobook! It is just as fun as the plot. Both the narrators are full of energy and make the story bright. I adored the woman who narrated Georgina's character. Bonus points for having an older woman voice her! It made the whole experience better than just having one person voicing the entirety of the book!

Who knew saying yes could be so powerful. Kelsey's whole world changed just from a summer of adopting yes into her vocabulary. It brings her a new friend, confidence and love. I am sitting here smiling just thinking about everything that "yes" brought her and I am so happy this book fell into my life.

Stories that have a beautiful message are a breath of fresh air. "The Summer of Yes" was that first breath you take in the morning of a day you know you're excited for. This story is filled with all the sparkly happiness of finding your purpose.

I loved the premise of changing your life to find yourself but I really fell in love when I met Georgina. Once this sassy elderly woman entered the chat, I knew I was a goner. The relationship between Kelsey and Georgina. It was giving me "The Princess Diaries" vibes where Mia and her grandmother explore New York City. We literally get a hilariously iconic scene very similar in this story and I could live in it forever.

Trust me when I say if you're looking for a fun summer read with unlikely friendships, hilarious dialogue and will open your eyes to the good that is life. Courtney Walsh wrote the book for you!

☀️ New York City & North Carolina
☀️ Unlikely Friendships
☀️ Multiple POV
☀️ Hilarious Banter
☀️ Sassy Old Lady
☀️ The Power of Saying Yes
☀️ Living Your Life to the Fullest
☀️ Summer Vibes
☀️ Road Trip

I LOVED THIS! It was exactly what I needed. I loved Kelsey & Georgina’s dynamic- I found myself laughing out loud many times!
I loved all the characters & learning how Courtney used the concept around saying “yes” more can change your (or someone else’s) life.
I had a great time listening to this & it was a perfect time listening with summer here!

By Courtney Walsh
4⭐️/5⭐️
Publish Date: July 2nd 2024.

Kelsey wakes up in the hospital with not much memory of how she got there. An overpaid, underworked editor in New York City, she got hit by a car coming back from Starbucks with her bosses coffee order. She is insistent on getting back to work as soon as possible but the doctors stress that she needs to stay longer to rest and recover. Kelsey is given a roommate in her hospital room who is none other than notable business woman Georgina Tate. As they are talking Kelsey notices many similarities between herself and Georgina and Kelsey asks Georgina if sacrificing many things in her life for work was worth it, it seems to bother Georgina. Kelsey takes this accident as the second change that it was to say yes to things and yes to living her life and not just work all the time. She eventually convinces Georgina to join her on her Summer of Yes roadtrip.

This book was so sweet. I enjoyed the writing, this was my first Courtney Wash book and I enjoyed it immensely. I very much enjoyed the banter between the characters. I think it leaves a great message that work is not something that should consume your whole life and that saying yes to yourself and stuff that you want to do in your life is importance to have a healthy work/life balance.

Thank you to the author Courtney Walsh, the publishers HarperCollins Christian Publishing and Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgally for this Audio ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Courtney Walsh's "Summer of Yes" is a delightful exploration of unexpected friendships, personal growth, and the transformative power of seizing life's opportunities. The novel opens with Kelsey Worthington, a dreamy writer stuck in a rut, whose ordinary day takes a dramatic turn after a chance accident lands her in a hospital room next to Georgina Tate—an influential figure in New York City's corporate world.

Kelsey and Georgina are seemingly polar opposites: Kelsey, the introspective dreamer who questions her abilities, and Georgina, the bold and successful businesswoman known for her assertiveness. Yet, their lives converge at a pivotal moment when Georgina's health crisis forces both women to confront their regrets and consider the possibilities of embracing new experiences.

Walsh excels in crafting characters who resonate with authenticity and depth. As Kelsey navigates her newfound role as Georgina's companion and confidante, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery that challenges her to step outside her comfort zone. From sampling street food to plunging into the ocean and even playing matchmaker, Kelsey discovers a world of adventure and personal fulfillment she never anticipated.

The heart of the novel lies in the evolving relationship between Kelsey and Georgina, as they support each other through moments of vulnerability and introspection. Walsh skillfully explores themes of courage, friendship, and the importance of embracing life's uncertainties. Through Kelsey's experiences, readers are reminded of the transformative impact of saying "yes" to new opportunities and pursuing passions that ignite the soul.

"Summer of Yes" is more than a story of self-discovery; it's a celebration of resilience and the joy of living fully in the present moment. Walsh's prose is engaging and heartfelt, capturing the essence of summer on the vibrant backdrop of New York City and the coastal escapes that Kelsey and Georgina explore together.

In conclusion, "Summer of Yes" is a charming and uplifting novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of friendship, personal growth, and the courage to embrace life's unexpected twists and turns. Courtney Walsh's storytelling shines brightly in this heartfelt narrative, offering a compelling reminder of the transformative power of saying "yes" to life.

Thank NetGalley for the ARC of This book! It was amazing!! I loved every minute of it. The two main female characters were strong. I loved the bantering between the two women. It was very entertaining! The perfect summer book!

The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh is a feel-good, summer read. It accomplishes what it sets out to do. The book encourages you to take a look at your life and choices, as to live for the YES!

Kelsey and Georgia are an interesting and fun duo! I enjoyed their banter and their journey together. The multi-generational friendship here is really lovely.

Since I listened to the audiobook, I want to make sure I give a nod to the narrators, who both did a fantastic job brining this book to life.

If you are looking for a fun, easy read, this is it.

This was the first book that I've hread by Courtney Walsh, and I know it won't be the last. I really liked this story and how it wove together themes of friendship, positivity, love and strength. Romance was there, but it wasn't the driving theme of the story. Self-love and self-growth played into the tale in a much greater way.

The story begins with a bang - Kelsey is accidentally hit by a car and wakes to find herself in the hospital. While trying to collect herself and her rattled memories of the accident, she also meets an older woman named Georgina, who is her roommate in the hospital. Georgina is a well=known, wildly successful businesswoman. Georgina sacrificed everything to become the woman she is today, but now, with a pair of failing kidneys and only a handful of months left to live, Georgina is looking back at all she accomplished and at what cost.

Kelsey always dreamed of being a writer, but she has settled for her job as a junior editor. She doesn't go outside of her comfort zone. Her relationships are safe. Her job is secure. Her existence is stable. After the accident and in talking to Georgina, Kelsey is forced to reckon with her own list of "things I'll do someday," and she starts to ask a simple but life-changing question. What if I said yes to all the things I normally say no to? And The Yes Plan is born.

It takes some convincing, but Georgina finally agrees to go along with Kelsey on her Summer of Yes adventures. The two of them set off to see what might be out there waiting for them if they simply open themselves up to it. But when they take a road trip that leads into stories from Georgina's past, this is where the true journey begins.

Two stories of love, forgiveness, regret, romance, and finding a way to live a fearless life intertwine as these two women make an indelible impression on each other. And it all starts with a simple "yes."

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing and NetGally for this Advanced Release copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Kelsey is a stable junior editor who dreams of being a writer. She is what some may call “boring”. She wakes up in a hospital after an accident and the patient next door is annoying. That patient is the one and only Georgina Tate, a celebrity businesswoman. Georgina is on dialysis due to kidney failure, and doesn’t have much longer to live. Kelsey makes the summer of yes pact. They say yes to all the things they’ve said no to. Kelsey connects with Georgina’s estranged son, Hayden for one more thing to check off the list.

Tales of friendship and love throughout the book. I love a good story with a grumpy old person! Cute easy read for the summer!

Thanks to Net Galley, Courtney Walsh, and Thomas Nelson for the ARC! Out tomorrow 7/2/24!

Kelsey was picking up Starbucks for her smarmy boss when she got hit by a car that jumped the curb. She woke up in a hospital rook next to Georgina Tate, the legendary matriarch of New York City businesswomen. They couldn't be more opposite, but they each had regrets about their lives that they needed to confront.

Kelsey decided on a summer of saying yes to things she'd normally decline to do, and she managed to rope Georgina into it. I loved seeing them come out of their comfort zones and live life differently. The romance subplots were a nice treat in the midst of their adventures.

This was a lighthearted read full of encouragement to not be afraid to experience life boldly. I loved the audio. Both narrators did an awesome job.

Thank you to Netgalley and Publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.