The Great Outdoors: A Novel

by Kayla Olson

From USA TODAY bestseller Kayla Olson, a new rom-com about a high-maintenance woman who embarks on a wilderness trek to prove to her ex how low-maintenance she can be—only to find herself with no makeup and an extremely attractive trek leader.

Sadie Whitlock has always been praised for being the most prepared person in the room, the one who’s thought of everything—and every backup plan—for any given situation. She knows exactly what she wants, exactly what she loves, and goes to great lengths to make sure her life runs perfectly as planned.

So, when her laidback boyfriend breaks up with her for being “too high-maintenance,” Sadie is eager to prove him wrong, and signs herself up for a weeks-long guided wilderness adventure in the High Sierras of camping, hiking, rappelling, and kayaking. It’s the most miserable, uncomfortable situation she can think of.

Sadie’s a five-star resort girl at heart, but she has a compelling—and suspiciously attractive—tour August Thorn. Thorn lives for adventure and always keeps a professional distance from the trekkers under his care…but there’s just something about Sadie, and for the first time, he finds himself wanting to get closer. As they explore the wilderness together, Sadie realizes the great outdoors might truly be great with the right person.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Adult, Contemporary Romance, Summer, Rom Com

384 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication June 16, 2026

About the author

Kayla Olson lives in Texas, and can usually be found in near proximity to black coffee, the darkest chocolate, Scrivener, and an army of Zebra mildliners.

THE SANDCASTLE EMPIRE has been translated into 14 languages—for more specifics on where to buy in France, Turkey, Spain (Spanish and Catalan), Romania, Denmark, Brazil, Serbia, Poland, China, Taiwan, Czech Republic, Russia, and Germany, please visit www.kaylaolson.com

Social media:
Twitter: @olsonkayla
Instagram:@authorkaylaolson
Facebook: @authorkaylaolson
Blog: olsonkayla.wordpress.com

Reviews

[Katie’s Bookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️

"She's the first person in years who's made me feel alive

This was so cute! Set almost entirely on a twelve day hike through the Sierra's, this has both a little romance and a great personal growth story.

After Sadie is unexpectedly dumped for being too high maintenance and not spontaneous enough, she signs up for a twelve day intensive hike. Originally thinking her ex will be there and she gave stick it to him when she crushes the hike, she winds up doing it alone and a little shocked about what a hike actually entails. Sadie loves her creature comforts and luxuries, and the plethora of items in her backpack originally included a curling iron, silk pjs and multiple books. I really enjoyed her story here. It felt realistic- she didn't come out of the hike a totally different person and throw out all of her makeup. She recognizes that sure, maybe she is high maintenance- but what's wrong with that? She loves being pampered and having nice things. But she isn't reliant on them. She struggles in the hike- she hates the bugs, has blisters and is constantly sore. But she also has a great attitude- constantly seeing the good in things and taking in the beauty of her surroundings.

The romance with Thorne was cute too. I loved how he saw Sadie- he knows hiking isn't her thing and sees how out of her element she is. He jokingly pokes at her about these things but genuinely likes that about her- how far out of her comfort zone she is pushing herself.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishing team for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay this was such a sweet surprise. I have to admit the first few chapters were hard for me to get into, just because I a) will also do something just because someone tells me I can’t, b) had a hard time believing that someone who read/watched so much to prep for her hike thought hiking boots were optional, and c) am also a hiking girly who doesn’t like how unpreparedness can lead to injury. (In other words, I needed to check myself).

I ended up LOVING Sadie and wishing I could go on a hike with her because she’d have good snacks and a happy attitude. The self discovery throughout this book for both Sadie and Thorn was beautifully written and also very believable in our connected and augmented world. It was simultaneously a celebration of being your true self but also pushing yourself to do hard things. Having been on hikes where you realize “oh no, I’m terrified but I literally have no option but to keep going”… the author nailed that feeling perfectly.

I’m so happy I read this, it’s a great summer read!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for my honest review.

[Delaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The setting was so fun and the characters were so lovable. I really enjoyed Sadie’s journey (as a chronic overpacked myself) and think a lot of girls will relate to her. Kayla Olson always delivers a swoony read and this book is a great addition to her romcoms! This would be such a good book to take with you on vacation, or read outside at home. Definitely recommend!

Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Full review to follow.

[Kloe Schudy · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review of: “The Great Outdoors” by: Kayla Olson

Format Read: Digital Netgalley ARC
Pub date: June 16, 2026
Publisher: Atria Books
Page Count: 384
Recommended for readers who enjoy: Katherine Center and Christina Lauren!
Notable Tropes: Forced-Proximity (kinda?), Outdoorsy Guy x City Girl, Summer Romance.
Minor complaints:
- While this book might qualify as “insta-love” to some, it does not feel as fast paced, as each day of the characters wilderness hike feels well paced. The characters actually get to know each other on a deeper level, rather than just being initially attracted to each other. (So this isn’t really a complaint lol, just a warning for those wary of this specific trope!)
Favorite Aspects:
- Great description of nature and camping details. I felt like I was standing next to Sadie and Thorn in the wilderness, and was kept on my toes with the general plot of their hike.
- “Sadie makes me feel alive.” - I love the trope of an mc feeling reawakened in their life through their partner.
- There are amazing character developments and self discovery aspects in this story. Both inner and outer relationships were rekindled with care, which translated on the page.
- As someone who can relate to the fmc, Sadie, I feel she is well written, and all challenges faced by this character are very relatable and real.
Final recommendation: When it comes to a star rating, I give this book a 5/5🌟’s! This book was very cute and had an overall positive message, which I loved.

Thank you Netgalley and Atria Books for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review!

[BookishKB]

🌄 The Great Outdoors🌄

📖 Bookish Thoughts
I’ll be sharing my full review closer to publication date.

🌲 What to Expect
• Opposites attract
• Wilderness survival
• Grumpy guide MMC
• High-maintenance FMC
• Forced proximity
• Outdoors adventure
_ _ __

📅 Pub Date: June 16, 2026
📝 Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this one was adorable.

Sadie is a chronic overpacker, type A, always prepared, queen. She’s been told she’s too much, too high maintenance, too everything.

Thorn is wilderness trek leader that spends most of his time in the mountains with a rotating door of trekkers.

Sadie, trying to prove a gross ex boyfriend wrong, decides to go on a trek to prove she can do it. With Thorn as her trek leader, Sadie discovers so much about herself, and surprisingly, Thorn makes his own self discoveries.

This is a no spice, slow burn, opposites attract, HEA. An absolute feel good summer book!

Sadie is a comfort to every person that’s been told they are too much, too this, or that. You are never too much for the right people!

Thank you NetGalley & Simon & Schuster for this ARC!

[Annie K · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being dumped for being “too high maintenance,” Sadie decides to prove she can rough it by joining a group backpacking trip through the Sierras. Except, things don’t go quite as planned — and what starts as a personal challenge turns into something much more complicated when she meets Thorn, the rugged, rule-abiding trip leader who seems to like her exactly as she is.

This book was so much fun — especially if you love the outdoors! Sadie and Thorn’s romance is sweet because he genuinely likes her for who she is, which felt so satisfying after everything she’d been through. And the “no relationships with hikers” rule? Totally believable. Sleeping with a client would be such a real-world mess, so I loved that it added real tension.

That said, my backpacker brain couldn’t ignore a few details — these people needed bear canisters, and the idea that only a few knew what switchbacks were made me laugh. Sadie also should’ve been in way more pain for someone new to backpacking! But beyond that, I had such a good time with this story.

Tropes I loved:
🪵 Forbidden romance
🎒 Opposites attract
⛺️ One bed (tent!)

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Mylissa B · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew I was going to love this book from the dedication page. . . "To anyone who’s ever been made to feel like they’re too much (or too little, somehow at the same time)—I hope you find your people, and that they love you for exactly who you are." ❤️ I immediately feel seen

This novel is a second chance romance for FMC (Sadie) who has been dumped by her ex & is looking to embrace her adventure side. From her overpacked backpack and lack of hiking shoes, I knew where this story was going but I still enjoyed every step of the journey. This is a closed door romance that had me cheering for the characters HEA from their mis-step meet cute 🥰

This novel includes heartfelt and relatable dialogue, thoughtful gestures and scenes that were so vividly described I could imagine being on the trail with these characters. If you enjoy the outdoors, hiking/camping or rediscovering who you are, I think this gentle and sweet romance is perfect for you.

[Liz Morris · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story had a cutesy setup, and I was immediately interested in the idea of a backpacking trip spiraling off course. While I enjoyed the scenic California mountain backdrop and the adventurous atmosphere, the characters never felt fully developed to me. Sadie came across as the stereotypical social media influencer having a dramatic self-discovery moment, while Thorn fit the predictable I’ve given up on love until she came along and was a pain in the ass on my hiking trip mold. Even so, the hiking elements were fun and reminded me of some of my own adventures. There’s always that one person who overpacks! By the end, though, I felt ready to part ways with both characters.

Thank you to NetGalley, Atria Books, and Kayla Olson for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Hunter Villarreal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for allowing me to read another ARC!

This was amazing. I loved every second of it. This was such a light hearted, easy read but in the best way possible.

Sadie is going through a tough break up that gives Legally Blonde vibes. She’s too much for the guy she’s with. Too high maintenance, too girly. So to prove him and herself wrong she signs up for the 12 day hike excursion. But, he didn’t sign up and now she’s going at it alone. Or so she thought. The hot hike leader, August, has caught her interest and she’s caught his. And they have 12 days to explore their interest in each other. And at one point, one tent ❤️‍🔥.

Sadie and August were so cute. The drama was well written in my opinion. The story flowed. It had enough twists and turns to keep interest going. No spice. Definitely a 1/5 on the spice. But the tension and yearning were great.

I will definitely be reading more of Kayla Olson’s books!

[Danielle Ramey · Rating 4 out of 5]

EEK! I just knew I was going to love this book when the opening author note said this book was for anyone who would 100% go on survivor if not for the whole surviving off the land thing, knows all the words to “a little bit Alexis”, and takes inspiration for the way Elle Woods went to Harvard just approve a point. I really resonated with the main female character Sadie for the way she feels that she is “too much”. She is super prepared, overly organized and likes to have a well structured thought out plan. She likes the comforts of the indoors and would never see herself doing a backpacking trip… it’s hitting close to home. But I loved reading about Sadie‘s transition from day one to day 12 of this trip to find that she is wonderful just the way she is, strong enough to do anything she puts her mind to, & even found love in a super attractive and thoughtful tour guide along the way! I’m super thankful for, ATRIA books, and NET galley, and Kaitlyn Olsen for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Ashley Tipton · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the first book I've read by Kayla Olson. I'll definitely be picking up others by her! I can genuinely say, I did not want to put this book down. I loved the chemistry between Sadie and Thorn and the way the progression of their relationship felt natural. One of my favorite parts was getting to read Sadie and Thorn's journal entries throughout the trek.

This is one of the few books I've read where I felt connected to so many characters. I loved that Sadie went outside (literally) her comfort zone and did something that scared her. Thorn and his relationship with his Dad and flashbacks of their adventures was so sweet. All I have to say about Abby is, everyone deserves a friend like her. I also really enjoyed hearing about the other people in the group throughout the trip. Maybe if I speak it into existence we can get another book that expands on Matteo's next adventure or even more about what Zoe decided to do next.

The descriptions of the scenery throughout the hike was on point. I especially appreciated the stargazing scenes. It's one of my dreams to go somewhere remote and camp under the stars.

Highly recommend picking this book up! I think my official rating is a 4.5/5. I really think this could have been a 5 star read for me if the ending wasn't so rushed. I could have used more details about how it went from the trip ending to the happily ever after.

A huge thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[callistoscalling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for a gifted copy; all thoughts are my own.

📖 Book Review 📖 Can a couple that vacations differently stay together? An age old question that Carrie Bradshaw could most certainly write an article on with an opening just like this one…

My husband prefers to stay at home while I always have the itch to travel so he holds down the fort while I get to fulfill my wanderlust and rotate traveling with our four kids. It works perfectly for us. Sadie has not found that groove with her now ex-boyfriend: she’s all in for adventure in Italy while he has planned a serious trek through the Sierras. Hoping to prove him wrong, she signs up to take on the great outdoors only to find out that he never actually signed up. It’s a lesson we all hopefully learn at some point in our lives - the right person will love us for who we are, not who we think we should be.

It does not even matter if you like to backpack because Sadie’s adventure into the wilderness is led by the handsome August Thorn - better known as Thorn. I hope you have figured out where this is going because The Great Outdoors is pure rom com gold. And while I totally support whatever your plans are, I would definitely recommend just craving out some time to binge this one because it is impossible to put down. My backpacking days might be in the past but this one felt like I was in semi-retirement and almost broke out my tried and trusted snacks from back in the day to enjoy while reading this (carrots dipped in peanut butter and tang!)

[Samantha Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Atria books for the ARC of The Great Outdoors!

The best way to describe this book is just an incredibly solid romance novel. I was initially drawn to this title because of the descriptions of hiking and adventure, which are two of my favourite things. However, this book has officially found itself as one of my favourite romance books because of the characters who I was so drawn to, the excellent writing style and pace, and of course the beautiful descriptions of the Mackenzie Lake Loop.

So often with the ‘city girl forced outside of her comfort zone’ trope, the character lacks depth or more importantly, they lack any kind of relatability. However, Sadie is someone that I think everyone can see themselves as, in some way or another.

Kayla Olsen with this book has single-handedly made me want to sign up for another group hiking trip!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[felicia]

What happen to the engaged couple that broke up? I’m more invested in them and why they feel insecure

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.

🏔️The vibes:
- Flirty banter
- Wilderness hike
- Forbidden romance
- Forced proximity
- Opposites
- Closed door (make outs)

🏔️ My thoughts:
When Sadie’s boyfriend breaks up with her for being too “high maintenance”, she decides to go on a big hiking trek to prove that she can do hard things. Her hiking guide is Thorn - the ever professional who never gets involved with a trekker….until now.

🏔️I thought this was fun. It's always a bonus when I really enjoy a book that has elements that I’m not naturally drawn to. I don’t know that I would call the relationship between Thorn and Sadie “instalove”, but it was definitely a very fast-moving connection. Typically this isn’t something I love, because it can feel like I got left behind or I’m unable to feel the connection in that speed of time. In this book, the author gave the couple enough time together on page that while it was a really fast timeline, I got to see enough of them on page that it worked for me.

🏔️At some points, their bond felt a bit physical-focused- with Sadie’s “x- rated dreams” (we don’t get these one page), and their overall physical attraction is constantly at the forefront of the interactions between the characters. But even with the strong physical attraction, I saw enough emotional connection alongside it which I appreciated.

🏔️This read like a rom com movie in my head. Some of the other trekkers on the hike pulled some wild punches that leaned into the humor and chaos that comes with romcoms. But even in the humorous moments, I saw a lot of depth in Sadie’s journey. As a fellow Type A high maintenance girl, I related to her struggles a LOT. Her character really inspired me.

🏔️Lastly, I loved the nature setting. The wilderness felt like a whole character itself which felt so immersive.

Note / spice content: language (light. A*, sh*); closed door (make outs)
Release date: June 16, 2026.

Thank you so much to Kayla Olson, Atria, and NetGalley for the gifted copy. I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary.

[Madison · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5☆

Thank you Atria books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

I loved the setup of this book--the premise and setting were amazing. Hiking is one of my favorite things to do along with reading romance, so combining the two just made such a great mix. Kayla Olsen’s vivid writing of the Sierra's in California was so immersive that it felt you were right there along with Thorn, Sadie, and the rest of the tour group .

With how the first chapter was set up (Legally Blonde vibes) it immediately gave the tone for the rest of the story, a lighthearted, quick-witted tale of journeying back to yourself. And as much as I eat up a story of finding yourself, it didn’t really land for me. It’s not that the book was bad per se, more so lacked differentiating itself from other romance novels to stick out to me.

The one thing I wished was mentioned on the blurb of the book was that Sadie is an influencer, and as much as it’s unique to the story with the videography directions, that was the part I wasn’t necessarily fond of. If anything, it pulled me away from the storyline. It didn’t really deepen a connection with Sadie, if anything, it felt a bit superficial.

I did really love Thorn influencing Sadie to journal, and getting glimpses into their mind as they each wrote about their day and encounters. It added meaningful moments that the book needed.

All in all, not bad, maybe just not my cup of tea.

[Keles Wyntor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley.

I was so excited to read this book after reading the description! I actually was broken up with by someone right before they started their Appalachian trail hike which made me spiral into trying outdoorsy activities so I actually found this premise to be oddly relatable haha. I really really loved Sadie and Thorn. Sadie was extremely funny, and very emotionally intelligent. I really loved her character development and how much her and Thorn helped each other grow and heal. Their Banter was so funny and such a bright spot. It felt so natural. I thought this story offered a lot of twists and turns that I did not see coming that were great in pushing the characters. I really loved the Dual POV. I think it was very important to get to see into both characters perspectives. While I was already excited to read this book, I was immediately locked in and was so enthralled I cancelled my plans to finish it, and I did not see that coming!

[Alecia H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the advance copy of The Great Outdoors by Kayla Olson.

This story follows Sadie, who’s freshly heartbroken after her boyfriend Caden breaks up with her, calling her “high-maintenance” and “too much.” Through a series of revenge type moments Sadie books a 12-day hiking trip in California despite her desperate need for comforts (like coffee and her favourite things) and embarks on the hiking journey to prove to herself that she can do it despite Caden and his opinions and his decisions.

From the moment Sadie meets Thorn, the experienced but quietly guarded trail guide, the story unfolds into something much deeper than a breakup-revenge hike. Olson writes a tender and empowering journey of self-discovery, healing, and unexpected love. Sadie’s growth felt so genuine — from struggling to lighten her pack to saving a fellow hiker and facing her fears head-on, she transforms in such a relatable, inspiring way.

The chemistry between Sadie and Thorn builds slowly and naturally, with so many heartwarming, funny, and occasionally heart-stopping moments.

This book was not just a romance, but a story of self-discovery about finding your strength, your joy, and your place in the world.

The Great Outdoors is uplifting, heartfelt, and full of adventure, reminding us that sometimes feeling lost is exactly how we find ourselves.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC of The Great Outdoors.

I had a great time with this story. We meet our two MCs, seemingly from very different worlds. Our FMC is used to a life of comfort and luxury, where our MMC is rugged, scorned, and from the great outdoors. What starts as a story of redemption turns to a story of growth, love, and finding oneself where you least expect it.

I appreciated the slow burn, the teasing, the restraint that went into our characters' love story. I am not a big smut reader, so really enjoyed the slow-paced desire that made this story so flirty and fun. Both characters experienced trials of the body and mind, ultimately leading them to epiphanies about how they have been living their lives.

The way Kayla sprinkled in some drama, as well as tons of character development, was masterful. The story flowed so naturally and not one moment felt forced. I loved how she added the character of Zoe, who was living a life that could have been a glimpse into Sadie's potential future, had she stayed with her ex. It felt like a turning point when Zoe shared her feelings and ended things with her fiancé.

The only real critique I have is of the ending. I felt like a solution to the LDR issue was wrapped up so quickly and neatly. I liked the fact that Sadie's best friend surprised her with Thorn, but the way it went from 'how will we make this work' to 'I already got a place here and gave up my whole life out there' seemed slightly rushed? I'm not sure if that's just me.

I loved this book overall and would give it 4.75 stars! Highly recommend.

[Monica Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Thanks to Atria Books and Net Galley for the ARC I was provided with in exchange for my honest review. **

I'm a first time Kayla Olson reader, but this will for sure NOT be my last. She knocked it out of the (National) park with this one.

This is the second book I've ever read cover to cover in one sitting. Technically, I've read two cover to cover just this month. Yeah. It's that good.

The story of Sadie sucked me in from the very beginning. The story of proving someone wrong, while proving yourself right at the same time. That one hit home for me. I'm sure it hits close to home for a lot of people.

Then add in Thorn. He is the perfect balance in the story. The complete opposite of Sadie's crappy ex. The inner turmoil Thorn goes through. So selfless. Gah.

I could go on, but that would ruin it. Read this one. You will not be disappointed.

[Sophie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After “The Lodge”, this is the 2nd Kayla Olson book I have had the pleasure of receiving an ARC for. My expectations were high as that was one of my favourite reads, and I was not disappointed with this new book!

Sadie likes what she likes. Comfort, routine, and 5-star resort vacations. At first she sets off on this adventure backpacking in California for a week and a half to prove something to her ex, who told her she wouldn’t make it. As Sadie progresses through the story, she discovers it is for herself. Destabilizing her routine is difficult but necessary in life’s unpredictability.

Thorn is Sadie’s tour guide and knows this hike inside and out. In his own way, he is stuck in his routine and comfortability, despite backpacking as his job.

It is against the rules for the guides to fraternize with the hikers, but Sadie and Thorn gravitate towards each other anyway. One of my favourite scenes is Thorn painting Sadie’s nails in her tent, because of course she brought nail polish. Also one tent ;)

Thank you Netgalley and Atria for sending me this ARC. This is for sure a reread for me when it releases!

[meredithandbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved that she decided to do something hard not only to prove to someone else that she could do it but by the end to prove it to herself. She went and did something hard and scary on her own when she had so much time to turn around and decide to not do it. Sadie really impressed me and showed me that life is more than just staying in your comfort zone, it’s taking risks and doing things you wouldn’t usually do. And by doing this, she met the best person for her, who accepted her as she was and not despite it. This book was truly beautiful and I loved it.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this book.

[Juliane B · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars ⭐️

Thank you to Kayla Olson, Atria Books, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I was so glad I got to read this book — I was actually sad when I finished it, because what a great surprise this turned out to be!

I could relate so much to Sadie and her need for predictability, structure, and that sense of comfort that comes from having a plan. I loved following her journey and seeing a FMC who enjoys her little luxuries, but not in a pretentious or annoying way. Her growth, reflections, and ability to adapt and make the best out of unexpected situations really stood out to me.

What impressed me most, though, was how well the author balanced both main characters’ arcs. Often in dual POV stories, one character (usually the FMC) gets more emotional depth, while the other mostly serves the romantic storyline — but that wasn’t the case here. Kayla Olson gave both characters space to grow, face their own challenges, and evolve in meaningful ways, all while building a romance that felt genuine, sweet, and beautifully written.

I also loved the vivid descriptions of nature and setting. The way she brought the Mackenzie Lake Loop trail to life was so immersive that I was ready to pack my bags and go — until I realized it’s fictional! The atmosphere and details were so realistic, it’s hard to believe it’s not a real place.

Such an amazing, heartfelt read!

[k · Rating 4 out of 5]

To say I loved this book is the understatement of the century. 13/10. No notes.

The banter and chemistry between Sadie and Thorn is undeniable! I laughed. I kicked my feet and giggled. I swooned. There’s something special about a love story that doesn’t involve a bunch of drama and is just easy going and sweet and cute.

I love the depth that we got from BOTH of the main characters. Usually a dual POV favors one or the other, but we got good, deep perspectives from both the FMC and MMC. I loved seeing the sacrifice, struggle and growth from both of them.

Especially Sadie. A girl on a mission to prove others wrong, but discovers herself and proves to HERSELF that she is stronger and more capable than she thinks.

I loved the outdoorsy adventures and all the supporting characters that allowed this book to be so much more than just a little romance story. Great side plots and storytelling.

Overall, just a beautiful story & I will be telling everyone I know to read it once it is released.

[Hannah Rafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kayla Olson’s books are just a delight.

This was such an easy read - and so relatable! I love a woman who is determined to prove everyone wrong. I’m also always grateful for an emotionally mature male character.

The descriptions of the land were beautiful and inspiring. I didn’t love how idealistic some portions of the outdoor adventure felt but it left some room for imagination!

Thanks to #netgalley for the ARC!

[Yaya · Rating 3 out of 5]

The real love story here was between Sadie and herself, and Sadie and the mountains. MMC didn’t actually add a ton to the story…

[Anjolie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Great Outdoors is such a sweet and fun read. Olson’s writing style is straightforward and easy to follow. The Great Outdoors was had a great sense of place that kept you well- oriented while the characters were constantly moving. Additionally, there were several high movement situations that were clear and easy to understand, I never had to re-read a paragraph to understand how someone suddenly got hurt.

The cover was what hooked me onto this book and I tried to go in as blind as I could.. After the first few chapters, I was wary of a high-maintenance-girl-off-on-a-precarious-hiking-adventure, and that this might feel overdone. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find the emotional journey did feel like a worthwhile take on self-discovery.

I really enjoyed the main characters of Sadie and Thorn. Olson does a good job showing you not telling you how the FMC and MMC fall for each other. The side characters and, in particular, Thorn’s conflict with his co-leader, add a lot of emotional variety.

This book is for fans of an opposites attract, strangers to lovers, with very normal relationship roadblocks kind of romance.

Sometimes you just want two great people to find each other and work out their conflict with tender, loving care while also having some rock face rappelling mishaps, you know??

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Great Outdoors is exactly what I’ve come to expect from Kayla Olson: pleasant, refreshing, and such an easy, enjoyable read. I only recently discovered her books and quickly devoured all of her previous novels, so I was thrilled to have the chance to read this one on NetGalley.

This story is light, charming, and full of heart, with great banter and a romance that unfolds in a really satisfying, low-stress way. The outdoor setting adds a fun twist, but what I loved most is how effortlessly readable the whole book is; it truly feels like a breath of fresh air.

Kayla Olson has officially become an auto-read author for me. If you’re looking for a feel-good, cozy romance that’s easy to sink into and leaves you smiling, I highly recommend The Great Outdoors.