The Summer of Yes

The Summer of Yes

By" Courtney Walsh

Genre: General Fiction

Summary:

Having been hit by a car not only leaves Kelsey with a 2 day stay in a hospital, but a driving need to reevaluate her life. She now has the time to look at her life and see how it's not what she wants it to be. Turns out, she's been saying "no" far more than she's been saying "yes". It doesn't take her long to decide that has to change. And what does any woman in her 20s need when turning her summer into one of saying, "yes"? Why an older- rather cranky- sidekick, of course. Georgina Tate has lived out more of her years than she has left, and secretly, with many regrets. So the least likely pair have a summer that changes their lives- but for good or bad?

The concept of this book was one that grabbed me from the start. It didn't sound like much of what I've read prior, so I couldn't wait to see how the story played out. For the most part, I enjoyed it. It was fun. heartwarming, challenging. It was fun to read how Kelsey dipped her toes into the world of "yes". 

The book's standout character, for me, was Georgina Tate. A highly successful business woman who did what few others did in her day, has much to be proud of. But even more to be regretful of. She's well aware that her success came at the price of decisions that broke more than one heart. So, as Georgina is now facing the biggest challenge of her life, she's got much to look back on and wish she had done differently. She also sees a lot of herself in the random stranger's hospital room she was placed in. In the little time they share together, a connection is made. Though Georgina is loathe to admit it. 

Kelsey approaches Georgina with an insane idea of taking the upcoming summer to say yes to things they once said no to. While these things are different for each of the women, both are highly impacted by the results. Where Georgina thought things were beyond repair for her, she's able to see that all isn't lost. If she can get out of her own way. 

I'll admit, while Georgina's storyline was far more impactful and emotional, she wasn't an easy character to like. She read to me very much like Queen Charlotte from Bridgerton. She was a grouchy, stubborn, almost egotistical character. But she's also the character with the most growth. The Georgina you start the book with is not the same one you finish the book with. 

The Summer of Yes was a fun read. It was a great combination of light, hearty and fun. It was fun and inspiring to see both characters face fears- big and small. I could easily see this being a beach or vacation read. The banter between Georgina and Kelsey was fun to watch unfold throughout the book. 

IF you're looking for a summer read, I encourage you to consider The Summer of Yes. I encourage you to this book at some point. Maybe you'll be inspired to have your own season of saying yes to what you normally say no to.