What a great hook! I loved how this story began with Kelsey disoriented in the hospital and desperate to get back to work, and then grumpy business maven Georgina Tate becomes her roommate and she starts to rethink her priorities. When Kelsey comes up with her plan for the Summer of Yes, I was all in wanting to witness these characters saying yes to all of the things they’ve been missing out on. What an inspirational story!

I’ll admit I was hoping for more of a buddy road trip, enjoying Kelsey’s sunny enthusiasm slowly dissolving Georgina’s cranky cynicism. We do get some of that, but that portion of the story was briefer than I expected. It then shifts to focus more on the two women’s romantic relationships than their budding friendship. But everything comes together in the end.

The audiobook production was excellent, and I enjoyed the narration by Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas. The narrators are fun to listen to, with good pacing, clear pronunciation, distinctive voices to suit the characters, and the ability to convey mood and emotion effectively. The story works very well as an audiobook.

This is an amusing, feel-good story that encourages the reader to think about what they value most. I recommend this book for fans of women’s fiction and clean contemporary romance.

I received a free advanced review copy of the audiobook through NetGalley. I volunteered to provide an honest review.

Appealing to both young and older women as it has multigenerational characters. The story is incredibly compelling as you get a look at a young woman struggling to get her career off the ground and a mature woman at the top of her career with many achievements, but both harboring regrets about life. Due to life altering events that land them both in the same hospital room, the women end up embarking on a journey to rectify some of their regrets and discover the best path for their futures. I think we can all relate to this sweet, funny, poignant and endearing story as many of us struggle to figure out which decisions we should be making in our daily lives. The story really makes you stop and take stock of what is important to you. I relate a bit more to the more mature character as I am at a point in life that is making me take stock of where I am and where I want to be. I too am finding that I need to spend more time chasing joy and this book just drove that point home a bit more! I always enjoy this author's writing, but I have to say that this particular story really resonated with me. I look forward to more from her soon!

I loved this audiobook and the 2 narrators. Kelsey, a young writer, ends up in the hospital after being hit by a car, and finds herself sharing a room with her polar opposite, an older, successful businesswoman with failing kidneys.. This chance encounter results in an adventure with more long-lasting life changes than either of them would have imagined. This was a fun summer book, and I loved how it was told from the 2 character's perspectives.

This was a very nice, easy read. I enjoyed the two points of view. One was an older woman and one a younger one. It was great to see them learn from each other. I like that each character gets a second chance - a do over. I especially appreciate the clean romance with no foul language - my kind of book!

Pack this book for the beach. You will enjoy the ease of reading and lighthearted feel of the read. These strong woman each have a story to share.

I have read several of Courtney Walsh's book and she always leave me with a smile and a warm feeling.

I received a free advance audiobook for review.

This audiobook was an enjoyable and engaging read perfect for feel-good summer reading. It follows a young woman after a near death experience who decides she wants to change the narrow life she’s been living and start stepping outside her comfort zone and saying yes to more things. She meets an older woman full of regrets at the hospital who reluctantly joins her in the journey.

It is a dual POV story and I loved that there were two different narrators for the story that each captured the unique feel of their character. I would call this novel a women’s fiction story with a subplot of romance and I enjoyed all the personal development and inner journey throughout.

As I was reading it made me ponder about this idea of saying yes or no to things in life and if I’m striving the balance I want in that area.

If you're looking for a lighthearted, wholesome, uplifting read- then this is the book for you!

"The Summer of Yes" tells the story of two women who end up meeting by chance when assigned to the same hospital room. Despite their age differences, both women share a sense of missing out on life because they have been so focused on their careers. This is the story of them going against their natures and choosing to say "yes" to what the summer brings their way.

There are some heavier themes such as: living with regrets, finding forgiveness, taking risks, and finding your purpose, yet Courtney Walsh manages to write in a way that ultimately still feels lighthearted.

I listened to the audio book and both narrators did a great job portraying the characters.

I did find it to be extremely predictable, but if you're looking for a feel good, easy summer read, then I'd highly recommend it!

Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Christian Publishing for providing a digital ARC of the book to read and review.

Gah, I just love Courtney Walsh's writing so very much and this book was absolutely wonderful! I thought the themes were so profound and so beautifully woven throughout this meaningful and adorable plot. Everything just came together so naturally. I was invested with my whole heart with these characters, Kelsey and Georgina, they felt like real life friends and I just wanted them to heal, grow, and find happiness. I guess you could say, I cheered each time they said "yes" and moved forward.
This book is more women's fiction, but I would totally call it a romance too. In fact, it was like a double romance which made my smile grow so big while reading. I love the way love and relationships, new and unexpected, effected so positively Kelsey and Georgina's perspectives. It was just SO good!
One thing I in particular I took from this book was the idea that life has disrupters that help us keep our life on track or put us on a better path. It was something I needed to hear at this time in my own life, I found it so inspiring.
I listened to the audiobook version of this novel. I 100% loved the narrator that did Georgina's POV. She was exactly as I imagined. The narrator for Kelsey did a great job, though she sounded slightly older than I picture Kelsey's character in my head. Both did a good job with the narration and in bringing this book to life. I will be listening to this book again and again. I already feel like I want to shout to everyone how this is a summer must read. I completely recommend this book. It made me smile, think, swoon, cheer, and reflect.
I received an advance listening copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A beautifully moving, dual POV story of second chances and trying to correct your life's biggest regrets. When Kelsey has a near death experience it causes her to rethink her workaholic ways and when she meets Georgina, a dying business maven in the hospital she works hard to convince the grumpy older woman to join her on a summer of saying yes adventure.

I loved this story of intergenerational friendship, new love, starting over and figuring out what's truly important in life. Highly recommended for fans of books like Sarah Adler's Mrs. Nash's ashes and Sarah Goodman Confino's She's up to no good. Great on audio too narrated by Tanya Eby & Cathi Colas. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review!

The longer I sat with my thoughts, the more I liked this book! The messages resonate so strongly!
When Kelsey Worthington wakes up in the hospital next to the legendary Georgina Tate, the only thing they have in common is regret. Undeterred by Georgina’s reputation and superior attitude, Kelsey is determined to come out of her shell, say YES to the very things she’s been avoiding, and take Georgina on the journey with her!
This is a heartwarming story about not hiding from the things that might make you uncomfortable and being willing to experience all life has to offer. It’s a reminder of what is important at the end of the day and life, and not to lose those moments to the rat race that won’t matter in the end. This novel encompasses life’s simple pleasures, some bigger risks, regrets, family, friendship and forgiveness. Both women, despite their age differences, each experience growth and self-discovery.
This is more of a Women’s Fiction than Romance book, but there is tender love to be found here among the relationships encountered.
And ultimately, it’s a reminder to go out of your comfort zone and be willing to sometimes say YES! We may be surprised what may come out of that! This would be a great book club read – I’m sure there would be a lot of interesting discussions!
My attention was immediately grabbed by the narration in the audiobook. Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas bring so much to the story with their inflections and tones and they absolutely brought the characters to life! I highly recommend listening to this one!

Courtney Walsh has hit it out of the park with this book! The Summer of Yes is full of heart, humor, grace, forgiveness, bravery, self reflection, romance, friendship, redemption, and new beginnings. The characters were fully developed, the pacing was on point, and the story was engaging.

The narrators were fantastic. They were engaging, emotive and sounded age appropriate. I do feel that the main narrator for Kelsey handled the male voices better, however, as far as the narration for the main characters, they were both spectacular.

I will definitely be recommending this book!

Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Audio for the alc, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

You know I am going to say it.....brace yourself for the cheese that is about to show up on your screen......last chance, avert your eyes, but.......SAY YES TO THIS BOOK!
Courtney Walsh was one of the first authors I discovered when I began reading Christian fiction books. She produced nothing short of 4 stars for me. They are clean, fun, feel good and faith filled (hey hey look at that alliteration). That being said the last few books she has put out seem to be lacking the "faith" aspect.
Now I am not expecting a sermon (obviously; https://michellelesley.com/2018/08/03/women-preaching-its-not-a-secondary-doctrinal-issue/) or a gospel message in my fictional book, however it is marketed as Christian Fiction, I think she really had the opportunity to incorporate more aspects of the Christian Faith in this book. Like showing God's redemptive love, forgiveness, dependence on God and a fruitful life.
That being said, I really enjoyed getting to know Kelsey and Georgina. I love a grumpy stiff woman and getting her to crack. There was a lot of predictable sweetness that doesn't leave you as the reader ever wondering what is going to happen. Sometimes its fun to read a "low risk" romance. I like how she is clean and her characters uphold strong morals.
I wish there was a bit more conflict within the story or not so perfect/quick solutions. In someways the way that the past so quickly forgotten was a tad bit unrealistic. But Courtney is not one to write a dark book, so just enjoy the sunshine and rainbows!

I would recommend this book if you are coming off a heavy dark read and simply need a reason to smile. I am so thankful for Netgalley, Thomas Nelson and Courtney Walsh for allowing me to review The Summer of Yes. I was not influenced or paid for my thoughts. Do yourself a favor and check out this cute book!

All the yes! So thankful I was granted access to this ALC! What a cute & fun listen! I loved the dual POV & second chance at life. Clean / wholesome, funny, & just all around heartwarming. My first from this author but I’ll be looking into her others. Definitely recommend this one! 🩵

Cute, cute, cute. Give me an elderly adventure partner and a little romance and I’m all set. This was such a sweet, fun summer read with deeper lessons about owning your place in the world and saying “yes” to what’s truly important in life.

I will say that the narrators weren’t my favorite at first, but they both grew on me by the end. This was my first audiobook ARC and I really enjoyed the listening experience on the app - thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity!

“Do you ever feel like you’re not really living?”

What a beautiful, uplifting, inspirational, powerful story about an intergenerational friendship, second chances, healing and self discovery! It’s also about living life to the fullest with intentional purpose and no regrets.

I loved both of the MCs, both hardworking women who have made work their sole priority, not leaving room for family, relationships or a life outside of work. Georgina, a very successful, wealthy, stubborn, older woman who is dealing with a scary diagnosis. Kelsey, a bubbly, encouraging, persistent, young woman who is a workaholic, overthinking, control freak who craves stability, security and predictability but dreams of becoming successful in the working world no matter what the cost. After an eye opening accident occurs, “fate” brings Kelsey and Georgina together. Kelsey turns to Georgina for career advice asking “Is it worth it?” referring to the hard work and sacrifices. And so begins the Summer of Yes…a summer of adventures, experiences and a road trip. A summer of feeling alive while rediscovering the meaning of life and priorities.

I wholeheartedly believe we all read and connect with books based on our backgrounds and personal experiences and I feel like this one was written for me! This may not be a book for everyone but as a woman who tends to get wrapped up in her work and has had her share of wake up calls, I related with this character driven book on so many levels. This book was such an incredible reminder that life is precious and sacred but unpredictable, don’t take it for granted. “Life moves pretty fast. And if you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas narration enhanced the experience, bringing the characters to life with impeccable tones and inflections while creating a believable narration. They delivered a remarkable performance from start to finish.

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this book! If you love banter between characters this is a hit. A young woman and an older woman meet in an unexpected place and with many, many efforts become friends. The Summer of Yes, by Courtney Walsh, is a witty, laugh out loud, story of being true to oneself and saying YES! You will just say "one more chapter" more than once. It was a brilliant piece of work and the narrators brought it truly to life!
#TheSummerofYes #NetGalley

The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh

Georgina, Georgina, Georgina! We all need someone like you in our lives.
Ladies and Gentlemen! Move this book to the top of your TBR this summer. I promise you will not regret it!

#courtneywalsh has such an amazing ability to build character relationships, dialogue and witty banter! I absolutely loved every minute of this audiobook! Shout out to #tanyaeby and #cathycolas for bringing the characters to life! I had many moments where I laughed so hard and had to rewind the audio and listen again!

Synopsis:
Kelsey wakes up in a hospital bed after being hit by a car running an errand she wasn’t suppose to. Kelsey is not the most confident but she dreams of being a writer, if only!

Enter Georgina Tate! A strong, confident business woman who has paid the price for success! And, oh boy, has she paid the price! Think of Georgina as Miranda Priestly but funny!

Together they are an unlikely duo, but Kelsey sets off on a summer adventure where she says “yes” to life! Georgina, reluctantly agrees to be her companion. Together, they build a friendship that leads them to finding what they ultimately need. Love.

The book has a lovely friendship story and bonus, two love stories (clean). I love the overall message of this book. Never forget to take a chance on yourself!

Highly recommend you read this book! The message of confidence and determination is beautiful. The funny dialogue will make read and re-read the lines over and over again, late into your summer day. Cheers!

4.5 ⭐️

This book was super charming! I really enjoyed getting to see the POV of both Kelsey and Georgina in this book. It really puts into perspective how much of a similar mindset they have to work, and how they are willing to make changes to better the parts of their life that are important. I really loved the way Georgina not only encourages Kelsey to take this challenge as a way to put things into perspective and change the trajectory of their life, but she allows Kelsey to help her grow as well.

The relationships that were formed and rebuilt were beautiful. I loved getting to look at the different pieces of different relationships and how the formation of those played into the other developing relationships. GREAT STORY, WILL RECOMMEND!

Story felt slow and I did not enjoy the narrator of this book.
The narrators voice felt older and did not match the main character of Kelsey.

Oh my goodness, I loved this book! It was a fun, feel-good adventure that really made me think about how I'm living my life. The Summer of Yes illustrates through the characters lives, how we often miss out on the good things in life because we're chasing a goal. We say no to experiences and relationships for the sake of our careers or simply because we're afraid. What would happen if we just said yes?

This is my first Courtney Walsh book but it definitely won't be my last. I thoroughly enjoyed every second of this. The characters were well developed and I felt a connection with each one of them. The audio narration was also really great making for a super enjoyable listen all around.

I highly recommend saying YES to this book!!

This was my first Courtney Walsh book and I already have two more on my kindle ready to go. At first I was with Georgina and Kelsey got on my nerves but I came around. I loved both of the male main characters. I really enjoyed the story and made me think how often I say yes.
A quick loving but heavy women’s fiction/ romance.

I really enjoyed whichever narrator did Georgina, she hit it right on the nail with how I would have envisioned her.

Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collin’s Christian Publishing for the opportunity to read an advance copy in exchange for a honest review.