Brighter Than Before - by Courtney Walsh (Paperback)

What a fun and definitely funny story to read! From the beginning, the escapades the main character, Claire, finds herself in makes you smiles the whole time you're reading it. But, through the trials and learning to be brave, we see her joy return, become hopeful, and see that she's not done living just yet! Through the story, there's things that encourage us as the reader, too. Once I started reading it, I didn't put it down until after midnight when I turned to the last page—it's that good! I highly recommend Brighter than Before. Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of the book from the publisher through NetGalley with no expectation in return. I voluntarily chose to share my thoughts and opinions about this book.

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!