Genre - Contemporary Fiction with a dash of Romance

When Kelsey (Kelly? Kasey?) is hit by a car that jumped the curb and wakes up in the hospital, she begins to question her whole life. So begins Courtney Walsh’s very recently published The Summer of Yes. Georgina Tate, a business icon, is her roommate there, and her presence makes Kelsey question her own decisions even more. She wishes to be a writer, but is instead working as a very underappreciated editor. She is losing sight of family and friends in an effort to work harder and climb that career ladder. When it occurs to her that Georgina has experienced the career success that she has longed for, but doesn’t have a single visitor, other than her paid assistant, she questions her own choices even more. Georgina who quite frankly seems mostly annoyed by Kelsey, tells her to say yes more. This advice sends Kelsey on a journey that will ultimately change both of their lives.

I loved both Kelsey and Georgina here. The audiobook, narrated by Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas, brings Walsh’s character development to life. I’m certainly more the age of Georgina who likes to feel like she has the time to effect great change like Kelsey. I love that when Kelsey commits to the idea of a summer of yes that she does so wholeheartedly. She takes her sick and vacation time and reconnects with friends and does everything in her power to bring Georgina along on her journey. I love her commitment to a goal and her refusal to look back. The quietly developed connection between the two is beautiful to watch. Kelsey commits to helping Georgina - even though Georgina resists fiercely. In spite of disagreement, disappointment, and sadness, their journey is peppered with humor and some laughter. Walsh creates a delightful balance. The supporting cast rounds out the book nicely. Georgina’s assistant and her son (a little bit of romance, anyone?) and Kelsey’s friends and coworkers all support Kelsey’s desire for change for herself and Georgina. Walsh creates a lovely world in this book.

What a great message Walsh teaches - of course most of us can say “yes” more often than we do. And here’s the thing - Georgina who could well have been facing the end of her life - ALSO learns to say yes more. Folks, Walsh shows us in The Summer of Yes we can always change our lives for the better. I have been thinking quietly since finishing this book about places where I can be more adventurous with my willingness to say yes - a fun and thought provoking read - perfect for the beach or the porch!