Discover the Magic of Saying Yes: A Book Review of “The Summer of Yes” by Courtney Walsh @courtney_walsh @ThomasNelson

“The Summer of Yes” is a heartwarming and humorous tale of two women who transform their lives through a summer of unexpected adventures and newfound friendship.

Acknowledgments:

Thank you to Thomas Nelson Fiction and Netgalley for the ARC of this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

From The Publisher:

Kelsey Worthington always dreamed of being a writer, but she’s settled into a routine of helping other people tell their stories in 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. And she’s great with that.

And then, the accident.

While she’s in the hospital overnight, she meets an older woman named Georgina Tate–a glass-ceiling-shattering, 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 forced to come face-to-face with her regrets. 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 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. Together, they say yes to whatever comes their way–a whole day being tourists in their own New York City, dinner with strangers, a convertible that is far from practical but so much fun. But when Kelsey springs a surprise visit to Georgina’s son Hayden and Georgina’s ex-husband (who is not so much of an ex), the older woman is less than thrilled. But 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.”

My Thoughts:

In “The Summer of Yes” by Courtney Walsh was an unexpected delight. What I thought would be a light-hearted read turned out to be a deeply emotional yet funny journey that tugged at my heartstrings.

The story kicks off with Kelsey Worthington, a workaholic junior editor who has always played it safe. After a near-death experience, Kelsey decides to shake things up and start saying yes to life. Her catalyst is an older woman named Georgina Tate, whom she meets in the hospital. Georgina, a highly successful businesswoman facing her own mortality, becomes an unlikely companion on Kelsey’s journey.

What stands out in this book is the dual narrative, allowing us to delve deeply into the lives and perspectives of both Kelsey and Georgina. Both women are driven and have made significant sacrifices for their careers. Georgina’s reflections on her regrets resonate with Kelsey, prompting her to reconsider her own life choices. This introspection and mutual influence form the crux of their relationship, making their story compelling and relatable.

Walsh excels in character development. Kelsey and Georgina are complex and well-drawn, each with intriguing backstories that unfold beautifully as the plot progresses. The dynamic between them is both touching and humorous, with their banter being one of the highlights of the book. The contrast and similarities between the two women create a rich tapestry of interactions that keep you engaged throughout their summer adventures.

The “Yes Plan” that Kelsey embarks on, with Georgina reluctantly in tow, leads to heartwarming and entertaining escapades. From being tourists in New York City to spontaneous dinners with strangers and even an impulsive road trip, their journey is filled with moments of joy and self-discovery. These adventures underscore the book’s message about embracing life’s possibilities and breaking free from self-imposed limitations.

While there is romance in the story, it takes a backseat to the powerful friendship and personal growth of Kelsey and Georgina. Their evolving relationship and the positive changes they bring to each other’s lives are the true stars of the book.

Final Thoughts:

In “The Summer of Yes,” Courtney Walsh weaves a narrative that is both inspiring and uplifting. The blend of humour, emotion, and insightful reflections on life’s priorities makes this book a standout. I loved every moment of it and wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a feel-good read with depth and heart.

Another Book I’ve Reviewed Written By Courtney Walsh:

If For Any Reason