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Brighter than Before: A feel-good novel about finding yourself and falling in love again
Life has a way of changing your path--and Claire Karadec certainly didn't plan on a fork in the road in her forties. From New York Times bestselling author Courtney Walsh comes a witty, warm, and uplifting novel about second chances, found family, and the courage it takes to become yourself--perfect for fans of Annabel Monaghan and Sarah Adams.
After a painfully public discovery shatters her marriage, along with her picture-perfect, country club life, Claire finds herself suddenly single and faced with a blank page for a future. On that page she writes a simple list that reads like equal parts dare and daydream--Move to a new city. Make a real friend. Get a job I love--and she vows to accomplish every single one.
Before she can talk herself out of it, she takes a step of faith, puts her old life in the rearview mirror, and leases an apartment in Chicago, the city that has always had her heart. This one step sends Claire on a journey of self-discovery, giving her the courage to conquer her fears, one checklist item at a time, and showing her that life can be a whole lot brighter than she imagined.
She rediscovers a love for baking, stumbles into new friendships, and even allows her daughter, Minnie, to create a dating profile and choose her dates for her. Perhaps the biggest surprise, though, is Miles, the charming, off-limits neighbor whose kindness makes it hard to remember why he's off-limits at all.
Between late-night journaling, disastrous first dates, great big lessons and priceless small victories, Claire learns to quiet the voice telling her she wasn't enough and listens to the one that asks the harder question . . .
What do I really want?
As old expectations loosen their grip, Claire discovers that belonging isn't a place you're invited to--it's a life you build one brave choice at a time. And the sweetest things often show up when you finally get out of your own way.
Lose yourself in a story that's equal parts heartwarming, hopeful, and full of joy. Early readers are loving the witty humor, uplifting journey, and sweet, clean romance that makes Brighter than Before such a life-affirming escape. Grab your copy today and discover a second-chance story about courage, connection, and building a life that feels truly your own.
After a painfully public discovery shatters her marriage, along with her picture-perfect, country club life, Claire finds herself suddenly single and faced with a blank page for a future. On that page she writes a simple list that reads like equal parts dare and daydream--Move to a new city. Make a real friend. Get a job I love--and she vows to accomplish every single one.
Before she can talk herself out of it, she takes a step of faith, puts her old life in the rearview mirror, and leases an apartment in Chicago, the city that has always had her heart. This one step sends Claire on a journey of self-discovery, giving her the courage to conquer her fears, one checklist item at a time, and showing her that life can be a whole lot brighter than she imagined.
She rediscovers a love for baking, stumbles into new friendships, and even allows her daughter, Minnie, to create a dating profile and choose her dates for her. Perhaps the biggest surprise, though, is Miles, the charming, off-limits neighbor whose kindness makes it hard to remember why he's off-limits at all.
Between late-night journaling, disastrous first dates, great big lessons and priceless small victories, Claire learns to quiet the voice telling her she wasn't enough and listens to the one that asks the harder question . . .
What do I really want?
As old expectations loosen their grip, Claire discovers that belonging isn't a place you're invited to--it's a life you build one brave choice at a time. And the sweetest things often show up when you finally get out of your own way.
Lose yourself in a story that's equal parts heartwarming, hopeful, and full of joy. Early readers are loving the witty humor, uplifting journey, and sweet, clean romance that makes Brighter than Before such a life-affirming escape. Grab your copy today and discover a second-chance story about courage, connection, and building a life that feels truly your own.
Audible Audio
First published June 8, 2026
About the author
Courtney Walsh
39 books6,633 followersCourtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes low spice romance and women's fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. She is also a Carol award winner and Christy award finalist.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
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June 29, 2026
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The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brighter than Before
Courtney Walsh
Publication Date: June 9th, 2026
Thomas Nelson Fiction
352 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Romance | Women's Fiction
I like Walsh's romance books because they're uplifting and the women are always discovering something about themselves. The main character is in her 40s in this one, and even she has something to learn. Claire's husband was cheating on her, and it became very public. After her divorce and hitting the lowest of lows, Claire has decided she is done with her past and writes herself a little list: move to a new city, make a good friend, and get a job she loves. None of these things are easy, but they're even more difficult when you're about to hit middle age. Imagine being in your forties and putting your whole life in the rearview mirror! Claire leaves Denver for Chicago because she has always loved it there.
My favourite part of Claire's new life was her rediscovering her love for baking and wanting to eventually open her own shop. I also loved how much her daughter, Minnie, wanted her mother's happiness. So much so, she sets up an online dating profile for her mom and takes over filtering out the options. Of course, this led to hilarious first dates. Also, Claire meets Miles, the next-door neighbour and they become friends and she shares these terrible dates with him, which of course are more enjoyable than the dates themselves.
Walsh writes books that feel authentic. Claire's experience after her divorce isn't just glossed over; her fear and vulnerability come through, and they felt very real. Watching her grow, step out of her comfort zone in Chicago, and take on her challenges was very satisfying. It reminded me that when you hit rock bottom, there is only one way to go but up. Claire used it as a push to start a life that was her own, and I felt weirdly proud of her. Maybe because I had to do the same thing as she did.
The side characters brought so much heart and humour to the story. Claire's daughter and her quirky neighbours were a nice touch, and her disastrous dates brought the fun, so the heavier themes were balanced out well. I appreciated how her new relationship was built on friendship first, even if it was a bit predictable, but no dramarama!
If you enjoy funny romances that are clean and uplifting, this is the book for you. It's sweet and heartwarming, and I enjoyed watching Claire finally get what she wants out of life. There's lots of emotional depth and a focus on found family. This isn't fluff because it really is a character-driven story and proves that life can be brighter than before.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
The Book Review Crew Blog
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brighter than Before
Courtney Walsh
Publication Date: June 9th, 2026
Thomas Nelson Fiction
352 Pages
Amazon | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Romance | Women's Fiction
I like Walsh's romance books because they're uplifting and the women are always discovering something about themselves. The main character is in her 40s in this one, and even she has something to learn. Claire's husband was cheating on her, and it became very public. After her divorce and hitting the lowest of lows, Claire has decided she is done with her past and writes herself a little list: move to a new city, make a good friend, and get a job she loves. None of these things are easy, but they're even more difficult when you're about to hit middle age. Imagine being in your forties and putting your whole life in the rearview mirror! Claire leaves Denver for Chicago because she has always loved it there.
My favourite part of Claire's new life was her rediscovering her love for baking and wanting to eventually open her own shop. I also loved how much her daughter, Minnie, wanted her mother's happiness. So much so, she sets up an online dating profile for her mom and takes over filtering out the options. Of course, this led to hilarious first dates. Also, Claire meets Miles, the next-door neighbour and they become friends and she shares these terrible dates with him, which of course are more enjoyable than the dates themselves.
Walsh writes books that feel authentic. Claire's experience after her divorce isn't just glossed over; her fear and vulnerability come through, and they felt very real. Watching her grow, step out of her comfort zone in Chicago, and take on her challenges was very satisfying. It reminded me that when you hit rock bottom, there is only one way to go but up. Claire used it as a push to start a life that was her own, and I felt weirdly proud of her. Maybe because I had to do the same thing as she did.
The side characters brought so much heart and humour to the story. Claire's daughter and her quirky neighbours were a nice touch, and her disastrous dates brought the fun, so the heavier themes were balanced out well. I appreciated how her new relationship was built on friendship first, even if it was a bit predictable, but no dramarama!
If you enjoy funny romances that are clean and uplifting, this is the book for you. It's sweet and heartwarming, and I enjoyed watching Claire finally get what she wants out of life. There's lots of emotional depth and a focus on found family. This isn't fluff because it really is a character-driven story and proves that life can be brighter than before.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
June 21, 2026
★★★★1/2
This is my kind of bland and sweet 💗
This book calmed my restless mind. I usually enjoy dual POVs, but being in Claire's head was pure bliss. There's something about her fears and struggles that hits differently when you're at a certain stage in life. This is a simple story about two broken people finding each other, but it's the emotions behind it that made it special for me.
Claire is a 46 year old woman trying to put the pieces of her life back together after her husband's affair and the end of a marriage that had long stopped serving her. She’s cut her losses and moved to Chicago - No.3 on her list, because nothing says “my life is in shambles” quite like making a “What I Want Out Of This Godforsaken Life” list.
❝ My “What I Want” list, so far, is—
I want a job or career I love.
I want friends. Real ones.
I want to live in a new city.
I want a dog.
I want to figure out who I am—apart from a wife and a mom.
I want a place where I fit in. I want a place where I belong.
I want a hobby.
And now, the last and latest one is . . .
I want to do the things that scare me. ❞
Looking at Claire's list made me a little emotional because most of the things she writes down are so ordinary. A job she loves. Real friends. A hobby. A dog. A place where she belongs. None of these are grand ambitions. They're the small joys and comforts that many of us put on hold while we're busy surviving lives that no longer fit us. Somewhere along the way, Claire lost herself in being a wife and a mother, and now she's trying to figure out who she is without those labels. This kind of story is always beautiful to read because of the courage it takes to start over when you're old enough to know exactly how badly things can go wrong.
Claire is such a well-grounded character. Sometimes I read a character and think, “gosh I wish I could watch them talk in real life." Not have a conversation with them, but just listen to them talk because they’re wonderful and someone needs to just listen. That's exactly how I felt about her. Some of Claire's fears are rooted in the general human experience, but others are tied to womanhood and what it means to be a woman in her 40s. I love that because it’s a different kind of struggle to be at a vulnerable stage in life in a world that not only tells you that your forties are not the time to be figuring things out, but also suggests that a woman’s value diminishes with age.
❝ They’re a visual representation of confidence, and for some reason, mine shrinks at the sight of them.
They’re young. They’ve got years stretching out in front of them, and they can do anything with those years. ❞
❝ I’ll never be able to go back to the days when the world seemed to be mine for the taking. The years I spent in college, mapping out my life plan, and the years of watching every aspect of that plan break off in a detour are still too fresh for me to ignore. ❞
Her insecurities and struggles felt real. Finding a career you enjoy, finding a hobby. Simple things that feel like a luxury. Very simple and scary things because adulthood teaches us about failure and gives us plenty of reasons to fear it. Sometimes trying is the hardest part.
This is one of the few times I can confidently say I liked the FMC more than the MMC. That's not a criticism of Miles because I liked him too. He's kind, lovely, and has got his own baggage too. He's not looking for love or a relationship, and I know we’ve seen it all before. However, the magic is in the way these two interact. It's in the uncertainty of what's growing between them and their gradual realisation that their feelings may be becoming something more and none of them are ready for it. They become tentative friends first - tentative because Claire doesn’t have the best first impression of Miles. However Miles is a sweetheart. He helps her with her "dating project," which is a dynamic I don’t particularly like in books but it was quite fun here.
Like most “mature romances”, this pushes back against the idea that people somehow age out of romance. There’s a common assumption that passion, desire, excitement, giddiness and lust are things that fade into the background once you hit a certain age.
❝ I am not a hormonal teenager. (I am a hormonal, perimenopausal adult woman, which I’m starting to think might have some similarities, but seriously, I know better.) ❞
Thank heavens, people don't stop feeling giddy, wanting sex or love because they’ve hit their 30s or 40s. Not everyone stops wanting connection because they’ve been hurt. Some people still feel hopeful even after they’ve experienced the biggest disappointment of their life. So maybe it comes down to this, the reason I adore this little story, how hopeful it is. How mundane, realistic and inspiring it is.
I also really enjoy Walsh's writing. It's simple, but quietly evocative. It’s not dramatic or lyrical. I think the writing perfectly matches the tone of the story. This isn’t the most exciting book I’ve ever read but I feel good and sometimes it’s that simple.
This is my kind of bland and sweet 💗
This book calmed my restless mind. I usually enjoy dual POVs, but being in Claire's head was pure bliss. There's something about her fears and struggles that hits differently when you're at a certain stage in life. This is a simple story about two broken people finding each other, but it's the emotions behind it that made it special for me.
Claire is a 46 year old woman trying to put the pieces of her life back together after her husband's affair and the end of a marriage that had long stopped serving her. She’s cut her losses and moved to Chicago - No.3 on her list, because nothing says “my life is in shambles” quite like making a “What I Want Out Of This Godforsaken Life” list.
❝ My “What I Want” list, so far, is—
I want a job or career I love.
I want friends. Real ones.
I want to live in a new city.
I want a dog.
I want to figure out who I am—apart from a wife and a mom.
I want a place where I fit in. I want a place where I belong.
I want a hobby.
And now, the last and latest one is . . .
I want to do the things that scare me. ❞
Looking at Claire's list made me a little emotional because most of the things she writes down are so ordinary. A job she loves. Real friends. A hobby. A dog. A place where she belongs. None of these are grand ambitions. They're the small joys and comforts that many of us put on hold while we're busy surviving lives that no longer fit us. Somewhere along the way, Claire lost herself in being a wife and a mother, and now she's trying to figure out who she is without those labels. This kind of story is always beautiful to read because of the courage it takes to start over when you're old enough to know exactly how badly things can go wrong.
Claire is such a well-grounded character. Sometimes I read a character and think, “gosh I wish I could watch them talk in real life." Not have a conversation with them, but just listen to them talk because they’re wonderful and someone needs to just listen. That's exactly how I felt about her. Some of Claire's fears are rooted in the general human experience, but others are tied to womanhood and what it means to be a woman in her 40s. I love that because it’s a different kind of struggle to be at a vulnerable stage in life in a world that not only tells you that your forties are not the time to be figuring things out, but also suggests that a woman’s value diminishes with age.
❝ They’re a visual representation of confidence, and for some reason, mine shrinks at the sight of them.
They’re young. They’ve got years stretching out in front of them, and they can do anything with those years. ❞
❝ I’ll never be able to go back to the days when the world seemed to be mine for the taking. The years I spent in college, mapping out my life plan, and the years of watching every aspect of that plan break off in a detour are still too fresh for me to ignore. ❞
Her insecurities and struggles felt real. Finding a career you enjoy, finding a hobby. Simple things that feel like a luxury. Very simple and scary things because adulthood teaches us about failure and gives us plenty of reasons to fear it. Sometimes trying is the hardest part.
This is one of the few times I can confidently say I liked the FMC more than the MMC. That's not a criticism of Miles because I liked him too. He's kind, lovely, and has got his own baggage too. He's not looking for love or a relationship, and I know we’ve seen it all before. However, the magic is in the way these two interact. It's in the uncertainty of what's growing between them and their gradual realisation that their feelings may be becoming something more and none of them are ready for it. They become tentative friends first - tentative because Claire doesn’t have the best first impression of Miles. However Miles is a sweetheart. He helps her with her "dating project," which is a dynamic I don’t particularly like in books but it was quite fun here.
Like most “mature romances”, this pushes back against the idea that people somehow age out of romance. There’s a common assumption that passion, desire, excitement, giddiness and lust are things that fade into the background once you hit a certain age.
❝ I am not a hormonal teenager. (I am a hormonal, perimenopausal adult woman, which I’m starting to think might have some similarities, but seriously, I know better.) ❞
Thank heavens, people don't stop feeling giddy, wanting sex or love because they’ve hit their 30s or 40s. Not everyone stops wanting connection because they’ve been hurt. Some people still feel hopeful even after they’ve experienced the biggest disappointment of their life. So maybe it comes down to this, the reason I adore this little story, how hopeful it is. How mundane, realistic and inspiring it is.
I also really enjoy Walsh's writing. It's simple, but quietly evocative. It’s not dramatic or lyrical. I think the writing perfectly matches the tone of the story. This isn’t the most exciting book I’ve ever read but I feel good and sometimes it’s that simple.
June 2, 2026
“No matter where you are in your journey… if you feel like you’re too old or too young or too unqualified or too whatever, just know that the only thing stopping you from changing your life… is 𝒀𝑶𝑼."
on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ɪ ʟɪᴠᴇᴅ” x ᴏɴᴇʀᴇᴘᴜʙʟɪᴄ
1:17 ────♥─────── 3:54
Wow. I'm just so obsessed with this story. This book felt like the warmest hug.🥹🥹
My heart absolutely went out to Claire from the very first chapter. Between the heartbreak and the painfully awkward fountain scene (I genuinely had to put the book down for a second from the secondhand embarrassment 😭), I was immediately invested in her journey. There was something so real about watching someone whose entire identity had been wrapped up in being a wife and a mother suddenly have to figure out who she was outside of those roles.
And that ended up being my favorite part of the entire book.
Watching Claire slowly rediscover herself was incredibly rewarding. Not because everything magically fell into place, but because every small step felt earned. I loved seeing her get excited about things again. I loved watching her find passions she had buried away for years. I loved seeing her realize that she was allowed to want things for herself.🥹
The relationships in this book were such a highlight. Claire and her daughter had me smiling from the beginning. Their bond felt genuine, supportive, and full of love, even when life was messy. 🥺🫶🏼 And Lorraine? I adored Lorraine. Every scene with her felt like a gift. She brought exactly the kind of chaotic, meddling grandma energy I love in books and somehow managed to steal every scene she appeared in. 🙂↕️
Then there’s Miles.
The meet-cute alone had me laughing because Claire truly has the worst luck imaginable. 🤣 But what stood out most was how kind he was from the very beginning. No games. No unnecessary drama. Just genuine kindness and support when Claire needed it most. I loved how he encouraged her to embrace life instead of hiding from it 👏🏼
Another thing I especially loved was the journal entries at the end of the chapters. They added so much depth to Claire’s character and allowed her growth to feel incredibly personal. By the end, looking back at where she started compared to where she ended up was so emotional.
&& can we talk about the friendships for a second?? Because they were EVERYTHING. Watching Claire go from feeling isolated to being surrounded by people who chose her, supported her, and cheered her on was such a rewarding part of the story 🥹🥹🥹
More than anything, this story felt hopeful. It’s about discovering that sometimes the moments that completely derail your plans end up leading you somewhere better than you ever imagined. It’s about choosing to keep moving forward even when life hands you something you never wanted. It’s about growth, courage, second chances, and learning that it’s never too late to become the person you’ve always wanted to be.
𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕢𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤 ↓
“You don’t have to know someone well to do something nice for them.”
“I guess I just wish my story were different.”
“I don’t,” he says without hesitation.
“What? Why?”
He looks at me, right in the eyes. “Because if your story were different, you and I wouldn’t be on these rocks.”
“I don’t know much, but I’ve learned that I’m not defined by other people’s expectations anymore. I’m not trying to be something I’m not. I’ve learned that it’s not selfish to take care of yourself—it’s critical.”
“Maybe this is how you fall in love. Maybe it’s not a big, grand gesture that sweeps you off your feet… maybe it’s the little things… Like listening. Caring about someone’s dreams. Doing what you can to make them happy. I suspect I’ve been falling inches in love with this man for quite some time.”
things to know about the book ↓
🍪 clean romance
🍪 neighbors → lovers
🍪 found family
🍪 self-discovery
🍪 later-in-life romance
🍪 personal growth
🍪 starting over
🍪 healing after heartbreak
🍪 single POV (hers)
spice rating: minimal kissing
swearing: no
Thank you NetGalley, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 💐✨💗 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
such a cute cover!! i've heard pretty positive reviews about this author so i'm excited for a sweet read 🫶🏼
on repeat 𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ɪ ʟɪᴠᴇᴅ” x ᴏɴᴇʀᴇᴘᴜʙʟɪᴄ
1:17 ────♥─────── 3:54
Wow. I'm just so obsessed with this story. This book felt like the warmest hug.🥹🥹
My heart absolutely went out to Claire from the very first chapter. Between the heartbreak and the painfully awkward fountain scene (I genuinely had to put the book down for a second from the secondhand embarrassment 😭), I was immediately invested in her journey. There was something so real about watching someone whose entire identity had been wrapped up in being a wife and a mother suddenly have to figure out who she was outside of those roles.
And that ended up being my favorite part of the entire book.
Watching Claire slowly rediscover herself was incredibly rewarding. Not because everything magically fell into place, but because every small step felt earned. I loved seeing her get excited about things again. I loved watching her find passions she had buried away for years. I loved seeing her realize that she was allowed to want things for herself.🥹
The relationships in this book were such a highlight. Claire and her daughter had me smiling from the beginning. Their bond felt genuine, supportive, and full of love, even when life was messy. 🥺🫶🏼 And Lorraine? I adored Lorraine. Every scene with her felt like a gift. She brought exactly the kind of chaotic, meddling grandma energy I love in books and somehow managed to steal every scene she appeared in. 🙂↕️
Then there’s Miles.
The meet-cute alone had me laughing because Claire truly has the worst luck imaginable. 🤣 But what stood out most was how kind he was from the very beginning. No games. No unnecessary drama. Just genuine kindness and support when Claire needed it most. I loved how he encouraged her to embrace life instead of hiding from it 👏🏼
Another thing I especially loved was the journal entries at the end of the chapters. They added so much depth to Claire’s character and allowed her growth to feel incredibly personal. By the end, looking back at where she started compared to where she ended up was so emotional.
&& can we talk about the friendships for a second?? Because they were EVERYTHING. Watching Claire go from feeling isolated to being surrounded by people who chose her, supported her, and cheered her on was such a rewarding part of the story 🥹🥹🥹
More than anything, this story felt hopeful. It’s about discovering that sometimes the moments that completely derail your plans end up leading you somewhere better than you ever imagined. It’s about choosing to keep moving forward even when life hands you something you never wanted. It’s about growth, courage, second chances, and learning that it’s never too late to become the person you’ve always wanted to be.
𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕢𝕦𝕠𝕥𝕖𝕤 ↓
“You don’t have to know someone well to do something nice for them.”
“I guess I just wish my story were different.”
“I don’t,” he says without hesitation.
“What? Why?”
He looks at me, right in the eyes. “Because if your story were different, you and I wouldn’t be on these rocks.”
“I don’t know much, but I’ve learned that I’m not defined by other people’s expectations anymore. I’m not trying to be something I’m not. I’ve learned that it’s not selfish to take care of yourself—it’s critical.”
“Maybe this is how you fall in love. Maybe it’s not a big, grand gesture that sweeps you off your feet… maybe it’s the little things… Like listening. Caring about someone’s dreams. Doing what you can to make them happy. I suspect I’ve been falling inches in love with this man for quite some time.”
things to know about the book ↓
🍪 clean romance
🍪 neighbors → lovers
🍪 found family
🍪 self-discovery
🍪 later-in-life romance
🍪 personal growth
🍪 starting over
🍪 healing after heartbreak
🍪 single POV (hers)
spice rating: minimal kissing
swearing: no
Thank you NetGalley, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 💐✨💗 𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
such a cute cover!! i've heard pretty positive reviews about this author so i'm excited for a sweet read 🫶🏼
April 22, 2026
4.5⭐️
Courtney Walsh does it again with another fantastic book! Her writing is warm, honest, funny, and pulls you in so you can’t stop reading.
It was refreshing to read a story with characters in their 40s. I really enjoyed Claire’s character, and although I have never personally been married or gone through a divorce, I found myself relating to and inspired by her. I especially loved that she didn’t allow her divorce to completely break her spirit and wasn’t afraid to put herself out there again.
I loved the dynamic between Claire and Miles. It was a very slow friendship to more, which is my kind of romance. It developed naturally as they both were healing and growing from past hurts.
This is one of those stories that reminds you it’s never too late to start over, and you don’t have to let your past or bad experiences dictate your future.
I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook, and the narrator was fantastic! She brought this story to life in the best way, and I highly recommend it!
Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas Nelson, for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content to consider: Kisses only romance, no language, mention of marital infidelity, divorce
Courtney Walsh does it again with another fantastic book! Her writing is warm, honest, funny, and pulls you in so you can’t stop reading.
It was refreshing to read a story with characters in their 40s. I really enjoyed Claire’s character, and although I have never personally been married or gone through a divorce, I found myself relating to and inspired by her. I especially loved that she didn’t allow her divorce to completely break her spirit and wasn’t afraid to put herself out there again.
I loved the dynamic between Claire and Miles. It was a very slow friendship to more, which is my kind of romance. It developed naturally as they both were healing and growing from past hurts.
This is one of those stories that reminds you it’s never too late to start over, and you don’t have to let your past or bad experiences dictate your future.
I had the opportunity to listen to the audiobook, and the narrator was fantastic! She brought this story to life in the best way, and I highly recommend it!
Thank you, NetGalley and Thomas Nelson, for an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content to consider: Kisses only romance, no language, mention of marital infidelity, divorce
March 19, 2026
So freaking cute!
July 8, 2026
Absolute perfection.
I thought nothing could top The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley, and yet this beautiful story has done it. Functioning as dopamine in book form, Brighter Than Before is the epitome of a feel-good love story that will have you grinning from ear to ear without even realizing you’re doing it.
Featuring MCs in their 40s, each figuring out how to live life on their own terms post-breakup, this book felt like a breath of fresh air in every way. The ratio of humor to heart was spot-on, with moments of laugh-out-loud levity. The characters are incredibly charming and easy to relate to, although I have a particular soft spot for Miles and his revolving door (iykyk). And while there are slightly heavier themes including divorce, they are handled with nuance and grace in a way that feels wholly authentic to these characters and their situation.
This is a book I will be adding to my reread rotation for those moments when I need a pick-me-up and only Claire and the gang will do.
🎧 This story is brilliant on audio, narrated by the incomparable Patti Murin, who was phenomenal as Claire (and even Miles) and gave her such a lifelike quality that it almost felt as though I was watching a screen adaptation. I highly recommend reading it in this format if you enjoy audiobooks.
Read if you like:
▪️feel good fiction
▪️single parent
▪️more mature MCs
▪️second chance at love
▪️friends to lovers
▪️relatable characters
▪️LOL moments
Thank you Thomas Nelson and Courtney Walsh for the gifted copies.
I thought nothing could top The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley, and yet this beautiful story has done it. Functioning as dopamine in book form, Brighter Than Before is the epitome of a feel-good love story that will have you grinning from ear to ear without even realizing you’re doing it.
Featuring MCs in their 40s, each figuring out how to live life on their own terms post-breakup, this book felt like a breath of fresh air in every way. The ratio of humor to heart was spot-on, with moments of laugh-out-loud levity. The characters are incredibly charming and easy to relate to, although I have a particular soft spot for Miles and his revolving door (iykyk). And while there are slightly heavier themes including divorce, they are handled with nuance and grace in a way that feels wholly authentic to these characters and their situation.
This is a book I will be adding to my reread rotation for those moments when I need a pick-me-up and only Claire and the gang will do.
🎧 This story is brilliant on audio, narrated by the incomparable Patti Murin, who was phenomenal as Claire (and even Miles) and gave her such a lifelike quality that it almost felt as though I was watching a screen adaptation. I highly recommend reading it in this format if you enjoy audiobooks.
Read if you like:
▪️feel good fiction
▪️single parent
▪️more mature MCs
▪️second chance at love
▪️friends to lovers
▪️relatable characters
▪️LOL moments
Thank you Thomas Nelson and Courtney Walsh for the gifted copies.
July 9, 2026
4.5 stars
A fantastic read about second chances, starting over, friendship, and romance. I loved this one! Claire is in her forties, newly single, and starting over in a new city. Claire was an amazing heroine, and I loved Miles as well as the rest of her new friend group. This one kept a huge smile on my face and filled me with so much joy! Highly recommend picking up the audio!
A fantastic read about second chances, starting over, friendship, and romance. I loved this one! Claire is in her forties, newly single, and starting over in a new city. Claire was an amazing heroine, and I loved Miles as well as the rest of her new friend group. This one kept a huge smile on my face and filled me with so much joy! Highly recommend picking up the audio!
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 4.5 stars
Narrators: Patti Murin
Narration Rating: 4.5 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 11h
February 11, 2026
OVERALL STAR RATING: 6/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
To say I’m obsessed with this book is a bit of an understatement. The humor and intrigue immediately drew me in, and the thought-provoking life lessons will surely keep you around. Courtney has such a gift of creating characters that feel real and relatable. This story had the elements of an elite 80’s or 90’s RomCom movie, coupled together with the perfect amount of rawness and depth. The relationships forged within these pages were simply the best. Also, one of the most heartwarming and inspiring epilogues I think I’ve ever read. I’m not sure I’ve ever been this upset to finish a book because I wasn’t yet ready to part with the characters.
After 20+ years of marriage, 46-year-old Claire Karadec finds herself divorced from her husband who didn’t seem to know the definition of fidelity. She’s spent her life dedicated to lifting this man up in his high profile, country club lifestyle, only to be stabbed in the back. Now it’s time to pick up her shattered pieces, step out in faith and start life over again. She starts by making a list of goals. Step one – move to Chicago for a fresh start in a new city. Immediately upon settling into her new apartment Claire starts making new friends who show her a side of herself she never knew existed. She dreams, she journals and she gets herself into plenty of laugh-out-loud first date scenarios that will have you giggling until your sides hurt. I don’t think I’ve ever rooted this hard for a romance in a book before. The FMC and MMC completely captured my heart.
This is a story about growth and change, about facing your fears, starting over and becoming something brighter than you ever thought possible. It’s about found family and those people holding your hand through the storms. It’s about YOU and it’s about ME – I dare you to read through and not find a little bit of yourself within the pages. You don’t have to be middle-aged or to have gone through a tumultuous divorce to relate to the characters in this book. It’s going to touch your heart no matter where you are in life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
To say I’m obsessed with this book is a bit of an understatement. The humor and intrigue immediately drew me in, and the thought-provoking life lessons will surely keep you around. Courtney has such a gift of creating characters that feel real and relatable. This story had the elements of an elite 80’s or 90’s RomCom movie, coupled together with the perfect amount of rawness and depth. The relationships forged within these pages were simply the best. Also, one of the most heartwarming and inspiring epilogues I think I’ve ever read. I’m not sure I’ve ever been this upset to finish a book because I wasn’t yet ready to part with the characters.
After 20+ years of marriage, 46-year-old Claire Karadec finds herself divorced from her husband who didn’t seem to know the definition of fidelity. She’s spent her life dedicated to lifting this man up in his high profile, country club lifestyle, only to be stabbed in the back. Now it’s time to pick up her shattered pieces, step out in faith and start life over again. She starts by making a list of goals. Step one – move to Chicago for a fresh start in a new city. Immediately upon settling into her new apartment Claire starts making new friends who show her a side of herself she never knew existed. She dreams, she journals and she gets herself into plenty of laugh-out-loud first date scenarios that will have you giggling until your sides hurt. I don’t think I’ve ever rooted this hard for a romance in a book before. The FMC and MMC completely captured my heart.
This is a story about growth and change, about facing your fears, starting over and becoming something brighter than you ever thought possible. It’s about found family and those people holding your hand through the storms. It’s about YOU and it’s about ME – I dare you to read through and not find a little bit of yourself within the pages. You don’t have to be middle-aged or to have gone through a tumultuous divorce to relate to the characters in this book. It’s going to touch your heart no matter where you are in life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
July 5, 2026
Brighter Than Before by Courtney Walsh
5 Stars
https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Stay tuned for my reading vlog on this one!
COURTNEY DOES IT AGAIN! WOW! I loved this book so much! Her books just bring me so much joy. I laughed so much. It was giving early 2000s rom-com, I kept picturing Katherine Heigel and James Marsden from 27 Dresses LOL. SO GOOD.
If you want all the joy, read this.
Second chances, funny moments, plenty of depth, clean romance - the best.
I love that the characters are middle age in their 40s. Such a breath of fresh air to see this, especially as I just turned 36 this year and I find myself seeking characters in their 30s and 40s out in books these days.
Claire is recently divorced, as her husband cheated on her after 20 years of marriage. Claire moves from Colorado to Chicago, a place dear to her heart, as she loved being in rural Illinois growing up. She moves to a new apartment in the city and is ready for a fresh start. Her daughter Minnie is trying to set her up on dates though and makes her a dating profile online. Things get a bit complex when the apartment building owner, Miles, and her have quite the meet cute. Miles is also divorced, isn't seeking getting married again himself...and he starts helping with the matchmaking for Claire. Only you already know....the chemistry is more between Claire and Miles than anyone else they may be trying to date along the way...disastrous dates by the way....little do they know where their own relationship will end up.
But this book was more than just a romance.
This book was about self-discovery after your life turns upside down. It's a reminder to be with someone who supports you in what you enjoy. Lift each other up. I had the best time with this book and would recommend this book to everyone. It's truly one of those books that felt like real life. The epilogue was the best and gave me all the emotions - I teared up it was so beautiful.
The audiobook was also top tier. As an audiobook girlie, I loved the narration. She did a great job and I felt like I was right there with the characters while listening.
Will always recommend a Courtney Walsh read!!
Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley and libro.fm for a gifted ebook and audiobook to read and listen to for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 Stars
https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
Stay tuned for my reading vlog on this one!
COURTNEY DOES IT AGAIN! WOW! I loved this book so much! Her books just bring me so much joy. I laughed so much. It was giving early 2000s rom-com, I kept picturing Katherine Heigel and James Marsden from 27 Dresses LOL. SO GOOD.
If you want all the joy, read this.
Second chances, funny moments, plenty of depth, clean romance - the best.
I love that the characters are middle age in their 40s. Such a breath of fresh air to see this, especially as I just turned 36 this year and I find myself seeking characters in their 30s and 40s out in books these days.
Claire is recently divorced, as her husband cheated on her after 20 years of marriage. Claire moves from Colorado to Chicago, a place dear to her heart, as she loved being in rural Illinois growing up. She moves to a new apartment in the city and is ready for a fresh start. Her daughter Minnie is trying to set her up on dates though and makes her a dating profile online. Things get a bit complex when the apartment building owner, Miles, and her have quite the meet cute. Miles is also divorced, isn't seeking getting married again himself...and he starts helping with the matchmaking for Claire. Only you already know....the chemistry is more between Claire and Miles than anyone else they may be trying to date along the way...disastrous dates by the way....little do they know where their own relationship will end up.
But this book was more than just a romance.
This book was about self-discovery after your life turns upside down. It's a reminder to be with someone who supports you in what you enjoy. Lift each other up. I had the best time with this book and would recommend this book to everyone. It's truly one of those books that felt like real life. The epilogue was the best and gave me all the emotions - I teared up it was so beautiful.
The audiobook was also top tier. As an audiobook girlie, I loved the narration. She did a great job and I felt like I was right there with the characters while listening.
Will always recommend a Courtney Walsh read!!
Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley and libro.fm for a gifted ebook and audiobook to read and listen to for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2026
Claire, our fearless 40-something chaos magnet, is a tornado wrapped in coffee and bad decisions, who convinced me to ride shotgun on this wild dumpster-fire of emotions and life chaos.
After her marriage implodes, she decides to blow up her life and drags us into this whirlwind of moving boxes, awkward flirting, questionable life choices, and a swoony golden retriever-energy neighbour who somehow survives Claire’s brand of chaos and maybe even likes it?
This book's chaos wrapped in warmth with a big helping of “did that just happen?!” One minute you’re laughing at Claire’s ridiculous mishaps, the next you’re experiencing all the feelings and they hit like a freight train. We've got friendship, love, self-discovery, the worst life decisions, and discovering that adulthood is optional if you have enough courage (or insane optimism).
The writing's a total rollercoaster. It's sweet, tragic, hilarious, and chaotic, and by the end, you’re exhausted and a little bit in love with the sheer audacity of it all.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC
After her marriage implodes, she decides to blow up her life and drags us into this whirlwind of moving boxes, awkward flirting, questionable life choices, and a swoony golden retriever-energy neighbour who somehow survives Claire’s brand of chaos and maybe even likes it?
This book's chaos wrapped in warmth with a big helping of “did that just happen?!” One minute you’re laughing at Claire’s ridiculous mishaps, the next you’re experiencing all the feelings and they hit like a freight train. We've got friendship, love, self-discovery, the worst life decisions, and discovering that adulthood is optional if you have enough courage (or insane optimism).
The writing's a total rollercoaster. It's sweet, tragic, hilarious, and chaotic, and by the end, you’re exhausted and a little bit in love with the sheer audacity of it all.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC
July 8, 2026
4.25 stars "Life has a way of changing your path--and Claire Karadec certainly didn't plan on a fork in the road in her forties. From New York Times bestselling author Courtney Walsh comes a witty, warm, and uplifting novel about second chances, found family, and the courage it takes to become yourself--perfect for fans of Annabel Monaghan and Sarah Adams."
After a painfully public divorce, Claire creates a list to begin a new life. Before she loses her courage, she crosses the country and moves into a Chicago apartment. Her daughter Minnie even creates a dating profile for her. She begins to work her way through the list, renewing her interest in baking and making new friends. As she does, she begins to believe in found family, revitalize her career, and find a future that is brighter than before.
I loved this story of second chances and fresh starts during mid-life. The challenge of starting over is explored including doubts and feelings of inadequacy. It is told with wit, humor and wisdom. Filled with hope and joy, it is heartwarming and uplifting. Highly recommend adding this to your TBR.
The audiobook performance by Patti Murin (11 hours) is outstanding and brings the characters and story to life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, UpLit Reads and Courtney Walsh for the gifted advance reader's copy, advance listening copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own. 📚🎧
After a painfully public divorce, Claire creates a list to begin a new life. Before she loses her courage, she crosses the country and moves into a Chicago apartment. Her daughter Minnie even creates a dating profile for her. She begins to work her way through the list, renewing her interest in baking and making new friends. As she does, she begins to believe in found family, revitalize her career, and find a future that is brighter than before.
I loved this story of second chances and fresh starts during mid-life. The challenge of starting over is explored including doubts and feelings of inadequacy. It is told with wit, humor and wisdom. Filled with hope and joy, it is heartwarming and uplifting. Highly recommend adding this to your TBR.
The audiobook performance by Patti Murin (11 hours) is outstanding and brings the characters and story to life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Nelson, UpLit Reads and Courtney Walsh for the gifted advance reader's copy, advance listening copy and finished copy. All opinions are my own. 📚🎧
June 23, 2026
This is my first Courtney Walsh and won't be my last. I really appreciated how she portrayed the main characters. Claire, the FMC, is a mature woman in her 40s but portrayed how women actually are in their 40 - attractive and desirable, not just a mom/maternal figure. Miles, the MMC, is also mature but still capable of maintaining an adult friendship with a woman. They are both fun, and their banter is delightful. It's refreshing to see characters of this age who are still finding their way through life, finding purpose, and changing course. And the beautiful found family was just a bonus.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.
June 19, 2026
A simple, feel-good story with very loveable lead characters.
Claire ends her marriage with John, after she finds that he is having an affair. They have a daughter Amelia (Minnie) who is at Oxford, London. Minnie stays close to her mom. Claire has been in John’s shadow for many years and finally decides to be brave. She moves from Colorado to Chicago. Miles is a handsome neighbour, who also owns the building, and they soon become friends. Miles himself is divorced and has two grown daughters – Zoey and Ava, who work with him. He gives Claire the confidence to build a new life. As she looks for a job, Miles encourages her to consider setting up a business. Minnie goads her to start dating. As she moves on, she realizes a lot of this will not be easy.
Claire and Miles are very charming characters (as are others including Minne, Zoey, Ava). The story is uncomplicated – something I appreciated. The character development of the primary characters is good. I found a friendship Claire forms in Chicago and some of her dating experiences and business launch to be abrupt and could have been better written.
A book you can relax with, finish quickly and feel good about having read.
My rating: 3.75 / 5.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher Thomas Nelson Fiction and the author for a free electronic review copy.
Claire ends her marriage with John, after she finds that he is having an affair. They have a daughter Amelia (Minnie) who is at Oxford, London. Minnie stays close to her mom. Claire has been in John’s shadow for many years and finally decides to be brave. She moves from Colorado to Chicago. Miles is a handsome neighbour, who also owns the building, and they soon become friends. Miles himself is divorced and has two grown daughters – Zoey and Ava, who work with him. He gives Claire the confidence to build a new life. As she looks for a job, Miles encourages her to consider setting up a business. Minnie goads her to start dating. As she moves on, she realizes a lot of this will not be easy.
Claire and Miles are very charming characters (as are others including Minne, Zoey, Ava). The story is uncomplicated – something I appreciated. The character development of the primary characters is good. I found a friendship Claire forms in Chicago and some of her dating experiences and business launch to be abrupt and could have been better written.
A book you can relax with, finish quickly and feel good about having read.
My rating: 3.75 / 5.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher Thomas Nelson Fiction and the author for a free electronic review copy.
![Profile Image for Jessi ❤️ H. Vojsk [if villain, why hot?].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1746468325i/66224803._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
July 1, 2026
The cover screams fun, and the book delivered.
My first book with a protagonist over forty (I think? Maybe I don’t remember) with a wholesome story about finding yourself after losing yourself in a marriage and husband.
Well, Claire certainly didn’t see herself catching her husband cheating, but she does exactly that.
After wallowing in self pity and hate, and kinda doing embarrassed stuff left and right, Claire does the only sensible thing.
She flees - eh I mean moves - into a new city and starts to do the thing she wanted to do her whole life: find her own friends and a passion.
Well, good thing she has a bunch of wonderful people on her side, her daughter, her elderly lady neighbor and her landlord Miles, who is not only a kind human heart, but also extremely handsome.
And not down for a relationship. Like ever.
I loved the way the author portrayed dating after being in a relationship for so long.
I also loved the whole community of friends Claire got in the end (and a hottie loyal guy on her side).
The book was a lot of fun, especially as an audiobook.
My first book with a protagonist over forty (I think? Maybe I don’t remember) with a wholesome story about finding yourself after losing yourself in a marriage and husband.
Well, Claire certainly didn’t see herself catching her husband cheating, but she does exactly that.
After wallowing in self pity and hate, and kinda doing embarrassed stuff left and right, Claire does the only sensible thing.
She flees - eh I mean moves - into a new city and starts to do the thing she wanted to do her whole life: find her own friends and a passion.
Well, good thing she has a bunch of wonderful people on her side, her daughter, her elderly lady neighbor and her landlord Miles, who is not only a kind human heart, but also extremely handsome.
And not down for a relationship. Like ever.
I loved the way the author portrayed dating after being in a relationship for so long.
I also loved the whole community of friends Claire got in the end (and a hottie loyal guy on her side).
The book was a lot of fun, especially as an audiobook.
May 12, 2026
I loved following Claire on her journey to a new start. Claire moves to Chicago to start her life over after her messy divorce. I loved seeing her find herself and develop as a person. This was an uplifting and charming story. Outstanding narrator. Highly recommend!
I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
July 2, 2026
the setup…
It’s been a year since Claire Karadec’s world fell apart. She’s forty-six years old and her marriage disintegrated in public as she learned of her husband’s affair at a charitable event and moments later caught him in the act! Humiliated, alone and rudderless, Claire finally decides to take a big step forward in her attempt to figure out who she is and wants to be…she moves from Colorado to Chicago. There she hopes to find a job, make new friends and create a life for herself.
the heart of the story…
Claire represents every woman of a certain age who finds herself suddenly adrift following a failed marriage. I admired her for facing her fears and leaning into them. She’d reached her rock bottom and just went for something. With her grown daughter Minnie cheerleading from Oxford, Claire found a community, dipped her toes into online dating (hilarious) and slowly regained her confidence and self awareness…and romance.
the narration…
I’m a Patti Murin fan and she tipped the scales in my deciding to listen to the story. She was perfection as Claire and outstanding in her storytelling.
the bottom line…
Claire’s journey wasn’t without pitfalls along the way but her moxie and determination kept her grounded and moving forward, finding her passion as a baker. It didn’t hurt that her newly found friends and community were a far cry from the plastic world she left. This story has everything…heartache, romance, hilarity and triumph. It was inspiring and I loved everything.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
It’s been a year since Claire Karadec’s world fell apart. She’s forty-six years old and her marriage disintegrated in public as she learned of her husband’s affair at a charitable event and moments later caught him in the act! Humiliated, alone and rudderless, Claire finally decides to take a big step forward in her attempt to figure out who she is and wants to be…she moves from Colorado to Chicago. There she hopes to find a job, make new friends and create a life for herself.
the heart of the story…
Claire represents every woman of a certain age who finds herself suddenly adrift following a failed marriage. I admired her for facing her fears and leaning into them. She’d reached her rock bottom and just went for something. With her grown daughter Minnie cheerleading from Oxford, Claire found a community, dipped her toes into online dating (hilarious) and slowly regained her confidence and self awareness…and romance.
the narration…
I’m a Patti Murin fan and she tipped the scales in my deciding to listen to the story. She was perfection as Claire and outstanding in her storytelling.
the bottom line…
Claire’s journey wasn’t without pitfalls along the way but her moxie and determination kept her grounded and moving forward, finding her passion as a baker. It didn’t hurt that her newly found friends and community were a far cry from the plastic world she left. This story has everything…heartache, romance, hilarity and triumph. It was inspiring and I loved everything.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
July 22, 2026
Full Blog Review
My Quick Takes:
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Genre 📚 Contemporary Romance
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 kisses only
- Content 🤔 divorce, extramarital affair
My new favorite Courtney Walsh, I’m not even kidding.
This felt like a breath of fresh air in the romance genre. In a world of plots centered around characters in their 20’s, I loved that the female main character in this book is in her late 40’s, 47 to be exact. While I would classify this as a romance, it does have some good comedic relief.
I’m not one to buy into the “I need to focus on me” narrative, and I loved how Courtney Walsh wrote a character in a season of life where the only person on which she could focus was herself. Claire, newly divorced with a daughter abroad for grad school, truly went on an adventure of rediscovery and the reader is happily along for the ride.
My Quick Takes:
- 5/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Genre 📚 Contemporary Romance
- Language 🤐 none
- Spice ❤️🔥 kisses only
- Content 🤔 divorce, extramarital affair
My new favorite Courtney Walsh, I’m not even kidding.
This felt like a breath of fresh air in the romance genre. In a world of plots centered around characters in their 20’s, I loved that the female main character in this book is in her late 40’s, 47 to be exact. While I would classify this as a romance, it does have some good comedic relief.
I’m not one to buy into the “I need to focus on me” narrative, and I loved how Courtney Walsh wrote a character in a season of life where the only person on which she could focus was herself. Claire, newly divorced with a daughter abroad for grad school, truly went on an adventure of rediscovery and the reader is happily along for the ride.
Currently Reading
June 17, 2026*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺ Pre-read ༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚
Look how cute this cover is!! 😍 The reviews for this book are so positive, and not a single one of my friends has given it a low rating 😃 I'm so excited!
Look how cute this cover is!! 😍 The reviews for this book are so positive, and not a single one of my friends has given it a low rating 😃 I'm so excited!
June 11, 2026
This was a very sweet story. I was initially annoyed by our female main character, Claire. She was making terrible decisions and was too old to be acting so ridiculous. I almost wanted to stop reading in the beginning, but by chapter two she was already beginning to make some changes.
The story was much better than my initial impression, however Claire made some initial assumptions about our male MC, Miles, and repeated them so often it was frustrating. It was very clear to the reader that Claire was mistaken, but she kept doubling down. My problem wasn't that she maintained a false belief, but that she kept repeating it.
Other than those two grievances, the story was really nice. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching them grow. I wish the world was filled with the type of people Claire kept meeting: people who become instant friends and show up for you in the best way. This was a very sweet story about finding your people, overcoming your setbacks and disappointments, chasing your dreams, and living life to its fullest.
I listened to the audio narrated by Patti Murin. She did a wonderful job and brings the story to life.
This is a story that I really wish I could give 3.5★ to it. It deserves the extra 1/2 star, but I just can't push it up to four stars due to the repetition.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The story was much better than my initial impression, however Claire made some initial assumptions about our male MC, Miles, and repeated them so often it was frustrating. It was very clear to the reader that Claire was mistaken, but she kept doubling down. My problem wasn't that she maintained a false belief, but that she kept repeating it.
Other than those two grievances, the story was really nice. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching them grow. I wish the world was filled with the type of people Claire kept meeting: people who become instant friends and show up for you in the best way. This was a very sweet story about finding your people, overcoming your setbacks and disappointments, chasing your dreams, and living life to its fullest.
I listened to the audio narrated by Patti Murin. She did a wonderful job and brings the story to life.
This is a story that I really wish I could give 3.5★ to it. It deserves the extra 1/2 star, but I just can't push it up to four stars due to the repetition.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 11, 2026
Brighter Than Before by Courtney Walsh
Contemporary romance.
Claire Karadec has always wanted to live in Chicago. Once her divorce is final, her home is sold and her daughter has gone to London to study, Claire finds an apartment and moves into a lovely small building with an interior courtyard that is shared by the residents. She has a list of things she hopes to accomplish after her therapist asks “what do you really want”.
Dine alone. Make a new friend. Start a hobby. Date.
Claire is not sure how to do these things but she knows she doesn’t want anything to do with a dating app. Yet her daughter has created a profile for her, and her new neighbor Miles seems to have teamed up with her.
Pickleball anyone?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Patti Murin who has created a wonderful performance of this story. It’s engaging and upbeat as the story unfolds. I could feel and hear Claire’s uncertainty, her determination, and her joy in discovering new adventures, even if it’s only Chinese food.
A charming and delightful romance as Claire moves from divorced and uncertain to happy, confident and a successful business owner. With a little help from Miles, neighbors and new friends.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction.
Contemporary romance.
Claire Karadec has always wanted to live in Chicago. Once her divorce is final, her home is sold and her daughter has gone to London to study, Claire finds an apartment and moves into a lovely small building with an interior courtyard that is shared by the residents. She has a list of things she hopes to accomplish after her therapist asks “what do you really want”.
Dine alone. Make a new friend. Start a hobby. Date.
Claire is not sure how to do these things but she knows she doesn’t want anything to do with a dating app. Yet her daughter has created a profile for her, and her new neighbor Miles seems to have teamed up with her.
Pickleball anyone?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Patti Murin who has created a wonderful performance of this story. It’s engaging and upbeat as the story unfolds. I could feel and hear Claire’s uncertainty, her determination, and her joy in discovering new adventures, even if it’s only Chinese food.
A charming and delightful romance as Claire moves from divorced and uncertain to happy, confident and a successful business owner. With a little help from Miles, neighbors and new friends.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction.
May 10, 2026
4.5 This book felt like I was sitting down and talking with a best friend for the entire duration. The writing is sharp, the story is engaging, and the humor is woven in so perfectly—it was just all around so good! I can’t believe this is my first time reading Courtney Walsh, but it certainly won’t be my last. I’m already looking into her backlist and can’t wait for what she releases next! It was an absolute joy to read, and the narrator's performance really brought this story to life.
January 19, 2026
This is my first time reading a book by Courtney Walsh and i loved every second of it! Loved the story line and the message behind it. You’re never too old to do new things on your own or discover yourself.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction, i received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction, i received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 11, 2026
Oh my soul!!! I have to admit, I have not read all of Ms. Walsh's books, but I have read quite a few, and this book-Brighter than Before is her BEST BOOK EVER!! 5 ENTHUSIASTIC STARS!! I listened to the book via audio, and let me just say, that the narrator did a fantastic performance with all the character's voices! In fact, I listened to it in just two days! (Thank you Lord for blue-tooth and ear buds!) I did NOT want to put it down. I was so drawn into the story from the very first chapter, and invested in sweet Clair's journey. I was rooting for her from the get go. She is such a likeable lady and to see her bloom and prosper and grow from her devastatingly, life changing divorce was an inspiration. This book has heartbreak, but it also has funny, laugh out loud scenes too. The characters are all my friends and I can honestly say, I was inspired by them. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up. You will thank me!
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers, and this is my honest opinion.
*I was given a copy of this book by Thomas Nelson Publishers, and this is my honest opinion.
July 10, 2026
"Brighter than Before" by Courtney Walsh is exactly the kind of uplifting read we all need sometimes and it works beautifully on audio.
Claire Karadec is 46, freshly divorced after discovering her husband's infidelity, and has spent the better part of a year hiding from the world. She used to host charity galas and shape her entire life around what her husband wanted—so much so that she lost sight of who she was outside of being a wife and mother. But when she finally sees her ex with the other woman and all her friends again after a year of divorce, something shifts. She packs up her life in Colorado and moves to Chicago, the city she always dreamed of calling home.
What follows is a beautifully crafted journey of self-discovery. Claire starts small—wanting a dog, eating alone at restaurants, trying new foods, talking to strangers—but these seemingly simple things become monumental steps toward reclaiming her identity.
Miles, her neighbor across the shared courtyard adds new layer to her journey.
Claire's foray back into dating after 25 years is both entertaining and relatable. Meanwhile, she builds a new circle of friends.
What truly elevated this book for me was the audiobook narration. Patti Murin's performance was absolutely exceptional—she brought so much depth and emotion to Claire's journey that it felt as if Claire herself was sitting down to tell her own story. Every moment of vulnerability, every ounce of hope, every awkward date, and every quiet realization landed with such authenticity because of the warmth and nuance in her voice.
This is a feel-good novel about second chances, found family, and learning that true love starts with loving yourself first. If you're considering the audiobook, do yourself a favor and go that route—it transforms an already wonderful story into something truly special.
I am grateful to NetGalley for this wonderful experience.
Claire Karadec is 46, freshly divorced after discovering her husband's infidelity, and has spent the better part of a year hiding from the world. She used to host charity galas and shape her entire life around what her husband wanted—so much so that she lost sight of who she was outside of being a wife and mother. But when she finally sees her ex with the other woman and all her friends again after a year of divorce, something shifts. She packs up her life in Colorado and moves to Chicago, the city she always dreamed of calling home.
What follows is a beautifully crafted journey of self-discovery. Claire starts small—wanting a dog, eating alone at restaurants, trying new foods, talking to strangers—but these seemingly simple things become monumental steps toward reclaiming her identity.
Miles, her neighbor across the shared courtyard adds new layer to her journey.
Claire's foray back into dating after 25 years is both entertaining and relatable. Meanwhile, she builds a new circle of friends.
What truly elevated this book for me was the audiobook narration. Patti Murin's performance was absolutely exceptional—she brought so much depth and emotion to Claire's journey that it felt as if Claire herself was sitting down to tell her own story. Every moment of vulnerability, every ounce of hope, every awkward date, and every quiet realization landed with such authenticity because of the warmth and nuance in her voice.
This is a feel-good novel about second chances, found family, and learning that true love starts with loving yourself first. If you're considering the audiobook, do yourself a favor and go that route—it transforms an already wonderful story into something truly special.
I am grateful to NetGalley for this wonderful experience.
June 8, 2026
Oh how I devoured this book! I think this officially my new favorite from Courtney! It was such a delight and felt like a 2000’s romcom movie. It’s always refreshing to read about women in their 40’s. In this case we have Claire who divorced her husband a year ago after she caught him cheating on her. She’s looking for a fresh start and decides to move to Chicago. It’s her journey for a second chance and the friendships and relationships she finds along the way.
Having grown up in the Midwest, there was so much in this book that made my Midwest heart happy. 😍 Did someone mention scotcheroos and “ope”? 😉 I’m honestly ready to hop on a plane and visit Chicago!
This book was not only fun and heartfelt, but it was inspiring as well. Two quotes stuck out to me while reading:
✨“Nothing about your life is going to change if you don’t change it.”
✨“Just because I wouldn’t have chosen this outcome for my life doesn’t mean my life can’t become something beautiful.”
Courtney outdid herself with this one! We need more books with “older” MCs! The secondary characters were all such a delight, as well. This book reminds us that it’s never too late to start over. 🩷
Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🤬: none
🔥: kisses only
Thank you so much to the author for an early copy! All opinions are my own.
Having grown up in the Midwest, there was so much in this book that made my Midwest heart happy. 😍 Did someone mention scotcheroos and “ope”? 😉 I’m honestly ready to hop on a plane and visit Chicago!
This book was not only fun and heartfelt, but it was inspiring as well. Two quotes stuck out to me while reading:
✨“Nothing about your life is going to change if you don’t change it.”
✨“Just because I wouldn’t have chosen this outcome for my life doesn’t mean my life can’t become something beautiful.”
Courtney outdid herself with this one! We need more books with “older” MCs! The secondary characters were all such a delight, as well. This book reminds us that it’s never too late to start over. 🩷
Star rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🤬: none
🔥: kisses only
Thank you so much to the author for an early copy! All opinions are my own.
June 24, 2026
Thank you Thomas Nelson for the gifted book and LibroFM for the audiobook.
LOVED EVERY MINUTE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I could sing the praises of this book all day long y’all. I was smitten from the get go and the story telling was absolutely fabulous. I loved that this had an older FMC who had to unexpectedly start over. I loved the realistic journey of being angry and upset and working towards that sense of peace and belonging that comes in time. Claire’s relationship with her daughter was also magical and something I aspire towards as my kids get older. Honestly this entire book felt like an inspiration. I haven’t been in Claire’s situation but the bigger lesson of finding a passion, doing something for you, and letting go of past grievances are very relevant to everyone.
To sing some love towards the romance because STOP IT RIGHT NOW. It was amazing. I adored Miles. He was just the right type of golden retriever energy for Claire and I loved seeing their strangers to friends to lovers romance develop. It’s soft and light and really gives you the second chance love so many crave.
The audiobook is perfect. No notes. I don’t think you can go wrong with any format for this book.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Content warnings: infidelity, divorce
LOVED EVERY MINUTE.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I could sing the praises of this book all day long y’all. I was smitten from the get go and the story telling was absolutely fabulous. I loved that this had an older FMC who had to unexpectedly start over. I loved the realistic journey of being angry and upset and working towards that sense of peace and belonging that comes in time. Claire’s relationship with her daughter was also magical and something I aspire towards as my kids get older. Honestly this entire book felt like an inspiration. I haven’t been in Claire’s situation but the bigger lesson of finding a passion, doing something for you, and letting go of past grievances are very relevant to everyone.
To sing some love towards the romance because STOP IT RIGHT NOW. It was amazing. I adored Miles. He was just the right type of golden retriever energy for Claire and I loved seeing their strangers to friends to lovers romance develop. It’s soft and light and really gives you the second chance love so many crave.
The audiobook is perfect. No notes. I don’t think you can go wrong with any format for this book.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Content warnings: infidelity, divorce
June 2, 2026
The queen of closed-door romances! Courtney Walsh never disappoints. I just love her stories and the characters she writes.
The found family aspect was top tier and had me in tears at the end. I love the way she balanced this story of second chances and finding love again and opening yourself up to new, uncomfortable things. It was beautiful.
Some may find it a little cheesy, but it was just what I needed in this season and I loved it. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Libro.fm for the ALC!
The found family aspect was top tier and had me in tears at the end. I love the way she balanced this story of second chances and finding love again and opening yourself up to new, uncomfortable things. It was beautiful.
Some may find it a little cheesy, but it was just what I needed in this season and I loved it. Highly recommend!
Thank you to Libro.fm for the ALC!
July 6, 2026
COURTNEY!!! This is your best book yet! And Patti Murin was the icing on the cake 1000000/10
January 24, 2026
Netgalley: Kindle - THIS WAS THE PERFECT ROMCOM. Full transparency, I thought this was a different author and that I recognized the name. But it was someone completely different who I’d actually seen on Instagram and had wondered about and WOW she did not disappoint.
This book was INCREDIBLE. The writing style was so fun. I laughed, I gasped, I got emotional, I swooned. I loved the growth of the characters throughout the book. I loved the friendships and the community and how her daughter felt like a main character just through texting (which is SO real when you live long distances from family). I feel so attached to the characters in this book- the way they showed up, rallied, and gave love was just incredible. Love love love. I will be picking up another Courtney Walsh and soon.
Thank you netgalley and publishers for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
This book was INCREDIBLE. The writing style was so fun. I laughed, I gasped, I got emotional, I swooned. I loved the growth of the characters throughout the book. I loved the friendships and the community and how her daughter felt like a main character just through texting (which is SO real when you live long distances from family). I feel so attached to the characters in this book- the way they showed up, rallied, and gave love was just incredible. Love love love. I will be picking up another Courtney Walsh and soon.
Thank you netgalley and publishers for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
January 11, 2026
Let me first start off by saying I absolutely love anything Courtney Walsh writes so it's no surprise I would love this one too. But this one gets me in the feels as a 40 something leaning into the stage of who am I outside of a wife and mother? How can I be brave in a new city? While my experiences are not the same as Claire I can relate on so many levels which probably made me love this book all the more. I laughed as Claire embarrassed herself yet again. I cried as she recognized the love her friends had for her. I rooted for her in every aspect of her life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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