The Meaning of Okay

by Cortney Raymond

Kennedy Ellis puts up a good front, but she's definitely not okay. Years after suffering sexual assault, Kennedy's trauma still manifests itself in relentless nightmares and dizzying anguish. She deals with it all by furiously burying her secrets and shame and avoiding intimacy of any kind. Rhys Curran moved to Texas to refocus on his career and start a new life not soured by his past. Soon after he meets Kennedy, his open mind and big heart unravel her ability to distance herself. As their friendship evolves, Kennedy's secrets begin to surface and she's forced to face each one. Will she ever be able to overcome her past—and will Rhys stick around if he finds out the truth beyond her story?

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2023

About the author

Cortney Raymond is an early riser, eternal learner, and book lover. She's addicted to all things planner related, and in her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family. Author of The Meaning of Okay, Cortney studied professional writing in college and has been a technical writer for several years. She has a BA in English and an MS in psychology.

Reviews

[Malyshka_flammareads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The narrative explores Kennedy, a survivor who has gone through heartbreaking experiences. It's a tale of recovery, second chances, and the value of accepting oneself. I'm glad Dillon was able to assist her in some manner. I adore how Dillon joins her in commemorating her anniversaries, the good and the bad ones. I loved her perception that Rhys is her safe haven. Kennedy and Rhys shared a lovely bond. The characters' friendships with one another are fantastic.

All the horrible things she went through make my heart ache. The fact that her parents did not support her saddens me. Her brother was her rock of love and support, and I'm glad for that. She's really incredible and strong. I loved that she was surrounded by people who cared about her, and her healing process gets better with every chapter.

[Abhay Singh · Rating 5 out of 5]

⚫️The Meaning of Okay by Cortney Raymond is a raw, emotional, and beautifully crafted exploration of trauma, healing, and the power of human connection. This novel addresses some very difficult and sensitive topics with grace and depth, providing a powerful narrative of overcoming personal darkness while trying to navigate the complexity of relationships.

⚫️But Wrapped at the very core of the novel is Kennedy Ellis, still scarred inside after a rape experience. Opening the book to Kennedy and most likely faking normality while her innermost pain still was not in a resolved manner but the nightmares she lived, traumas unfinished being weights pulling on her spirit. She deals with a situation so genuinely that readers cannot avoid joining her along for the healing journey. Heart-wrenching but relatable is her reluctance to open up toward others, let alone intimacy. Raymond does a great job of showing how trauma shapes not just the victim's mind but her whole interaction with the world.

⚫️Rhys Curran, the male lead, offers a perfect counterbalance to Kennedy's guarded nature. Rhys relocates to Texas to start his life all over again, but when he meets Kennedy, his open-heartedness and willingness to listen begin to unravel the barriers she's put up. The developing friendship between them is heartwarming and quite real, while as Rhys gets closer to Kennedy, the connection they share grows tender and complicated. The interesting thing about Rhys, and what makes him such an appealing character, is how emotionally intelligent he is; he can understand Kennedy well and afford her all the patience she needs toward her past. His shifting presence in her path from being lonely to healing is told so gracefully, adding many layers of beauty to their love story.

⚫️Raymond tells a truly slow-burning, realistic romance. While The Meaning of Okay is not a romance per se, the connection between Kennedy and Rhys is crucial to Kennedy's healing. The book balances the tension between fear and trust perfectly, and in forcing Kennedy to confront painful truths of her past, the readers are reminded that trauma and recovery are rarely straightforward. Rhys' presence in her life does not magically heal the wounds of her past but does give her the courage to start to confront them-a really powerful and honest portrayal of how, perhaps, relationships can be that catalyst toward healing.

⚫️Writing in The Meaning of Okay is poignant, evocative-poetic and accessible. Raymond's prose catches the high and low of emotion so exquisitely across the experiences of her characters. She doesn't sidestep the mess and pain of recovering from trauma but, rather, adds depth with the inclusion of hope and resilience in her tale. The pacing is appropriately measured to keep the tale naturally unfolding as Kennedy and Rhys sort out the conundrums in their individual lives and in the rising trust of a budding love affair.

⚫️What really does make The Meaning of Okay different from another book in the realm of contemporary romance is the commitment it shows to tackling trauma that will long be felt. Raymond doesn't provide any quick fixes or easy resolutions-the journey for Kennedy is really tough, messy, and in many ways painful. It will celebrate, at its close, the importance of vulnerability, emotional growth, facing your past for real forward movement.

⚫️The Meaning of Okay ultimately is a gut-wrenching, heartbreaking novel imbuing trauma, healing, and love with meaning-in depth, in nuance. Cortney Raymond crafts a powerful tale of two souls learning to navigate the brokenness in themselves and very slowly mend each other. A beautifully written, emotional read that will stick in the mind long after one reaches the final page. It comes highly recommended, indeed, to anyone who wants to read a story that's quite real and redemptive, reminding one that peace with oneself is reached only in quiet strength.

Happy reading ❤️✨

[Book Reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Meaning of Okay by Cortney Raymond is a contemporary fiction novel that delivers an inspiring and poignant message. The story follows Kennedy Ellis, a freelance business writer and editor living in San Antonio, Texas. In addition to her demanding career, Kennedy is also pursuing studies in physics and astronomy, reflecting the duality of her life. However, despite her achievements and full schedule, Kennedy continues to grapple with the trauma of a sexual assault that occurred ten years ago, resulting in recurring nightmares and a reluctance to engage in relationships. When Rhys Curran moves to San Antonio from Washington, DC, he and Kennedy cross paths through their mutual friend Dillion at Kade Development, the company where they both work. As they begin to collaborate more closely, a deeper connection forms between them. The question then arises: will Kennedy be able to overcome her past and embrace the possibility of a relationship with Rhys?

One of the strengths of this novel lies in its portrayal of friendships, particularly the bonds between Kennedy, Dillion, and Rhys. The interactions among these characters are infused with moments of humor, making their relationships feel authentic and relatable. The evolving friendship between Kennedy and Rhys, which gradually blossoms into something more, is a highlight of the book. Rhys stands out as a compassionate and patient hero, treating Kennedy with the care she needs while also grappling with his own challenges, which adds depth to his character and prevents him from seeming overly idealized. Raymond’s depiction of the contrasting aspects of Kennedy's life—her professional career and her passion for the cosmos—adds a rich layer to the narrative. The author’s vivid descriptions of the various settings, from Big Bend National Park to the French Quarter in New Orleans, enhance the reader’s immersion in the story.

The journeys the characters take are not only physical but also emotional, contributing to their development and the overall depth of the novel. There are several instances where the story abruptly transitions from one scene to another without adequate transitions or scene breaks. This can disrupt the flow of the narrative, leaving readers momentarily disoriented as they adjust to a new setting. The timeline at the beginning of the story is somewhat unclear, making it difficult to pinpoint when certain events in Kennedy's life occurred. For example, the sexual assault mentioned in the prologue was initially assumed to have happened during her teenage years, but the specific details are only clarified much later in the book.

The Meaning of Okay offers a compelling story of healing, resilience, and the courage to embrace new beginnings.

[Jessica Snoke · Rating 3 out of 5]

Trigger warning: Sexual abuse

Kennedy has suffered unspeakable trauma in her past, resulting in depriving herself of intimacy and the experience of true love. She will never be normal, and prefers to avoid anything that will make her seem as such.

Kennedy’s best friend, Dillion, recruits his friend to move to Texas and work for him. From the moment Kennedy and Rhys meet, Kennedy begins to fight a losing battle. Despite trying her best to distance herself from Rhys, she is drawn to him over and over again.

Faced with emotions of the past and present, Kennedy struggles to fully let Rhys in. Knowing all of her secrets will only prove that she is anything but normal, and no guy would ever stick around for that. But Rhys isn’t like any guy she’s ever been with, and he’s determined to prove it.

While I did enjoy this book, I found it to be more of a slow read. I didn’t find myself running to pick it up with every chance I had, and it took me quite a few chapters to get into it. With that being said, I came to love the story, the characters, and the sense of hope that it brings to anyone who has ever suffered such unimaginable trauma.

I can’t pretend to know what it is like to experience anything like the trauma that Kennedy experienced. But from an outside perspective I feel that the topic was addressed tastefully and respectfully. As frustrating as Kennedy’s thoughts and actions were throughout the book, I could completely understand where her distorted thoughts were coming from. I also loved experiencing her journey of healing as the story progressed.

And of course, who couldn’t love Rhys. He was the exact person that Kennedy needed in her life to show that she is worthy of experiencing love and everything that comes with it. I will admit that there were times that he did seem just a bit pushy with the intimate stuff, although he always remained respectful. However, I do also think there were times when Kennedy needed that extra push to evoke more of a response from her - whether positive or negative.

Overall, this was definitely a heavy read. Whether you’ve experienced something similar in your life or not, it’s difficult to not feel the emotions through the author’s writing. But despite the heaviness, the positivity, love, and support of Kennedy’s friends and Rhys provided a bright light and sense of hope that Kennedy could overcome her past and learn the meaning of okay.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Meaning of Okay by Cortney Raymond is a story that stayed with me long after I finished reading it. Kennedy Ellis, the main character, feels so real—like someone you might know or even parts of yourself. She’s been through so much, yet she tries to live a normal life, burying her pain deep inside. As I read about her nightmares and struggles, it reminded me of how we all carry unseen battles. Her fear of intimacy and her efforts to seem “okay” really hit me, making me think about how often we put on a brave face for the world while hiding so much inside.

Then there’s Rhys Curran—kind, patient, and exactly the kind of person you’d hope to meet when life feels overwhelming. His approach to Kennedy’s walls wasn’t about breaking them down but gently waiting until she was ready to let him in. Their friendship felt so genuine, and watching it grow into something more was beautiful. I especially loved how Rhys wasn’t presented as the “fix” for Kennedy but rather someone who supported her as she worked through her pain. It made me reflect on the importance of having people in our lives who understand us and don’t push us to heal faster than we’re ready.

Cortney Raymond’s writing is simple yet powerful. She doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of trauma or healing, and that’s what makes the story so relatable. It’s not a fairy tale; it’s messy and emotional, but there’s so much hope woven into it. I found myself pausing at several points, just taking in the raw emotions. The book reminded me that healing is a process, and it’s okay to take small steps forward, even if it feels hard.

I would recommend The Meaning of Okay to anyone who loves stories about resilience and second chances. It’s not just a romance—it’s about friendship, healing, and finding the strength to face your past. This book will make you cry, smile, and believe in the power of love and understanding. If you’ve ever struggled with pain or know someone who has, this book will touch your heart in the best possible way.

[Diya Ramwani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cortney Raymond's The Meaning of Okay is an emotionally gripping story that takes readers deep into the aftermath of trauma and the healing power of connection. Kennedy Ellis is a compelling protagonist whose struggles with past sexual assault are portrayed with raw authenticity. Her relentless nightmares and guarded demeanor paint a vivid picture of someone weighed down by pain, yet determined to endure. The narrative pulls readers into her world, making them root for her healing while highlighting the delicate nature of self-recovery.

Rhys Curran, on the other hand, is the light that Kennedy didn’t know she needed. His empathetic nature and patience create a contrast to her guarded walls. Their evolving friendship is beautifully written, showing how kindness and understanding can slowly chip away at the barriers built by trauma. Rhys is not just a romantic interest; he’s a catalyst for Kennedy’s journey of self-discovery and healing. Their dynamic is genuine and heartwarming, making readers believe in the transformative power of human connection.

What sets this book apart is its unflinching portrayal of the long-term effects of sexual assault. The story doesn’t shy away from showing the messy, nonlinear process of coping and healing. Kennedy’s journey is not sugar-coated, which makes it all the more relatable and impactful. Raymond’s writing is sensitive yet powerful, balancing the weight of the subject with moments of hope and resilience.

Overall, The Meaning of Okay is a heartfelt exploration of pain, recovery, and love. It’s a reminder that healing is possible, even in the face of life’s deepest wounds. For anyone who has ever felt broken or lost, this story serves as a beacon of hope and understanding. Highly recommended for readers looking for a blend of emotional depth and tender romance.

[Scube · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crisp, short, well-written chapters and an overall thoughtful storyline—if the romance genre can be this heartwarming, then I definitely need to explore it more often. I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this story.

The dedication of this book reads, "For those who know and those who love someone who knows." Initially, I was skeptical, but as I delved deeper into the story, it started to make sense.

From the very beginning, the prologue was captivating and heart-wrenching, with an extremely unpredictable start. I appreciate that the book comes with a trigger warning for sexual assault.

The story perfectly aligns with the book's title—"Meaning of Okay." It follows Kennedy and Rhys, who are each navigating their personal struggles and have reached a point where they have given up on finding partners or going on dates.

Kennedy, a survivor of sexual assault and rape, tries to lead a normal life with the support of her friends and therapist, having spent her entire teenage and adolescent life trying to make sense of it all she is now focusing on healing.
Rhys, perpetually unlucky in love, is tired of meeting women who cheat.
They meet through a mutual friend, Dillon, and from their first encounter, there's an undeniable attraction. However, they remain in denial due to the personal commitments they’ve made.

The character sketches are well-crafted. The author handles such a sensitive topic with great care and detail, which is truly commendable.
Some scenes from the book have my heart especially the ones where they seek emotional solace in one another or where they discuss their life and traumas, confiding in one another.

[Bookbaroness Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kennedy Ellis and Rhys Curran’s journey in this novel is a raw, emotional rollercoaster that explores the complexities of trauma, healing, and human connection. The story delves deep into Kennedy’s struggle with the aftermath of sexual assault, which continues to haunt her in the form of nightmares and a wall of emotional barriers. Her coping mechanism—burying her pain and avoiding intimacy—creates a wall that Rhys, with his open heart and genuine kindness, begins to break down. The tension between them is palpable, yet their evolving friendship feels authentic and well-paced, as Kennedy is slowly forced to confront the weight of her past.

The book stands out for me because of its sensitive and realistic portrayal of trauma and recovery. It doesn’t shy away from the emotional challenges Kennedy faces, and it highlights how true healing is never linear. Rhys’s unwavering support and understanding make him a refreshing character in a genre often dominated by complicated love triangles or quick fixes.

I totally believe this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys deeply emotional, character-driven stories. It’s a beautiful reminder of how relationships—whether romantic or platonic—can help us heal, even when we don’t believe we’re worthy of it. A captivating, poignant read that will stay with you long after the last page.

[John Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Meaning of Okay" by Cortney Raymond is a poignant and touching tale that delves deep into the complexities of trauma, healing, and the power of human connection. I felt that through the characters of Kennedy Ellis and Rhys Curran, the author skilfully navigates the sensitive topic of sexual assault with grace and empathy.

The author's narrative beautifully captures Kennedy's internal struggles and her journey toward overcoming her past traumas. The evolving friendship between Kennedy and Rhys is portrayed with authenticity and tenderness, highlighting the healing potential of genuine companionship.

This book is a compelling explore resilience, love, and the importance of confronting one's demons. Raymond's storytelling prowess shines through in vivid descriptions and nuanced character development. In my view, "The Meaning of Okay" is a must-read for anyone seeking a moving and thought-provoking story that lingers in the heart long after the final page.


It was my pleasure to receive a free copy of this book but that does not in any way affect my opinions in this review of this exceptional work.

[Dibyendu Choudhury · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story nicely compliments the book's title, The Meaning of Okay. It follows the exploits of Kennedy and Rhys, two people coping with personal troubles who have given up on dating and finding love. Without giving too much away, the title highlights the concept of setting boundaries—boundaries that in real life regularly blur, making us fearful. The book is about recognizing and fighting these complicated challenges, which can take a lifetime to resolve. The book teaches us how to navigate and overcome hurdles, ultimately leading to a normal existence. Sometimes we forget how blessed we are to live a regular, salt-and-pepper-free, humdrum existence; I recall how important it is to appreciate the little things. Accidents happen, but life must continue.


Cortney Raymond's language is fluid and captivating, conveying this story with grace and depth. She handles sensitive issues with attention and nuance. I highly recommend picking up this book and delving into its emotional and thought-provoking story.

[Fatima Shamsi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently read The Meaning of Okay by Cortney Raymond, and it left a deep impression on me. Kenny Ellis, a resilient yet scarred girl, struggles with her self-worth until Rhys Curran enters her life. Their journey of healing and self-discovery moved me. It’s a heartfelt reminder that our past doesn’t define us, and love transforms everything.

What stood out to me in The Meaning of Okay was the author’s bold and unfiltered writing style. It felt so real, almost like I was living the story alongside Kenny and Rhys. The way the author portrayed the struggles of healing and the weight of past wounds was truly touching, making the journey more relatable and profound.

Rhy’s kindness and patience were unforgettable. His connection with Kennedy grew so naturally, never forcing her to open up before she was ready. Watching their friendship turn into love felt genuine and moving, a reminder of how important it is to have someone who truly understands and respects your journey.

[Emily Portman · Rating 4 out of 5]

T.W. Sexual assault, rape.

A powerful, emotionally charged story of strength, recovery and healing after a traumatic event. It’s about the importance of friendship and having the right support network. And it’s also the story of rediscovery, of change, of taking a chance on love.

The dual narrative in this book works really well, and the perspectives of Kennedy and Rhys perfectly portray the battles sexual assault victims (and those around them) may face when attempting new relationships. The author writes emotion so brilliantly that you can’t help but feel it all too, and I felt so protective of Kennedy after we learn of so many horrors in her past.

Aside from some pacing issues and it being such a heavy read at times, it’s certainly a book that will stick with me. Heartbreaking, hopeful and real.

[Komal · Rating 5 out of 5]

The meaning of okay is a must read. The story is very interesting and keeps you hooked until the last .This is about Kennedy Ellis who puts up a good front, but she's definitely not okay she is suffering inside her mind and heart . Years after suffering sexual assault, Kennedy's trauma still manifests itself in relentless nightmares and dizzying anguish. She deals with it all by furiously burying her secrets and suffering all by herself. Rhys Curran a friend of Kennedy moves to Texas to refocus on his career and start a new life ,they both meet and grow close , ultimately falling on love with eachother.

[Kajori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cortney Raymond's “The Meaning of Okay” is a heart-touching tale of second-chance love and redemption. It tells us the story of Kennedy Ellis, a young woman plagued by the nightmares of her trauma. Though years have passed since her assault, she is unable to give love and life a second chance. When she meets Rhys Curran, everything changes. Heartbroken himself, Rhys embarks on a journey to heal Kennedy and show her her own worth. I highly recommend this beautifully penned book to fans of character-driven romance novels.

[Dee Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was beautifully written. Both Kennedy & Rhy’s character hit home for me and I found myself hoping, and crying for the both of them. Everyone is deserving of a love that is kind and patient and understanding, no matter our past.

[Ita Purnamasari · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sangat bagus , aku suka dan sangat recommended banget