Favorite read of 2026!
My favorite book of 2026 so far! Courtney Walsh knocked it out of the park. I feel like I could write a paper on so many reasons why I really loved this book, so buckle up, this review will be LONG. First, a little about the story. Claire is reeling from a heartbreaking divorce at 40 and trying to figure out what is next for her. She takes a leap and moves across the country. Hands down, Claire is a favorite FMC of all time. I loved how she was imperfect (fountain scene, y'all) but felt so real. We all have the days of sweatpants and Cheetos in the car #mygirl. She was kind, honest, and caring. She was a GOOD communicator (how refreshing). She cared for others deeply. I loved seeing her take steps for herself throughout the book, and it makes me want to make myself a list. We see her grow in knowing who she is and seeing the beauty in everyday life and the mundane. I loved being in her brain, and I will say this, I loved not being annoyed by a FMC for once. There's a time and a place, and this time was for Claire, the kind, thoughtful, authentic, quietly insecure gal who loves to bake and chat with you. Secondly, that meet-cute is my favorite of all time, and I need it to be made into a rom-com movie so I can see it play out. The relationship between her and Miles was done so well. I usually struggle with friends-to-more romances because they continually break boundaries the entire time and never communicate anything, but these two talked about where they were the entire time. If a boundary was broken (iykyk), they would have a discussion about it like GROWN ADULTS. Bravo. How nice it was to see maturity in a relationship. Even though Miles was dragging his feet out of fear, they communicated throughout about where they were and what their expectations were. Do I wish he would have been a little clearer from the get-go? Sure, why not. But it was also beautiful to see him discover that Claire could be a safe place for him to land. He was the best cheerleader for our girl. He was in her corner and believed in her so much. I loved it! And I love a found family, and this crew was so wonderful. It's so important for us to have our people. I kept thinking back to the friends in my life who would pick me up off the ground if the time ever arrived, and I am so grateful that I have them. Can I also point out how beautiful the cover of this book is. Yes, give me all the vibrant colors for a summertime read. I will be singing about this book till the cows come home. Courtney Walsh, you nailed it!
