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The Great Outdoors
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 guide 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.
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 guide 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.
384 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2026
About the author
Kayla Olson
10 books718 followersKayla 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
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
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
“When you’re at a pivotal moment in your life and stripped down to your core, it’s only natural that the people you share those experiences with become deeply bonded with the experience itself.”
𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴇɴᴅꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴇᴀʀᴛʜ” x ʟᴏʀᴅ ʜᴜʀᴏɴ
2:22 ─────♥───── 4:44
Okay so going into this as someone who’s done a bit of backpacking and hiking before, I had a really hard time overlooking some of the technical aspects of the story. 😬 There were multiple moments that pulled me completely out of it because they felt so unrealistic. You’re telling me Sadie showed up for a weeks-long wilderness trek in tennis shoes and Thorn, an experienced trek leader, just… let that happen? 😭 There’s no way she was the first inexperienced city girl he’d ever guided, and I kept thinking someone should’ve stepped in way sooner. That being said, I did try to give Sadie some grace because she genuinely had no idea what she was getting herself into. Some of the things she packed made me laugh, and while it didn’t always feel believable, I could appreciate that she was completely out of her comfort zone.
What I ended up loving most was Sadie’s personal growth. She started this entire adventure trying to prove something to her ex, but somewhere along the way, it became about proving something to herself instead. Watching her realize she was capable of hard things (even while terrified) was honestly my favorite part of the book. She kept showing up, even when she was uncomfortable, scared, and surrounded by strangers. That took courage.
I also really appreciated the message that there wasn’t actually anything wrong with who Sadie was in the first place. She wasn’t “too much” because she liked to plan ahead. She wasn’t broken because she preferred nice hotels over sleeping on the ground. Thorn constantly reminded her that being organized and prepared isn’t a flaw, and I loved that the story never tried to force her into becoming a completely different person who all of a sudden was super into the outdoors. She still loved her nice things.
The romance was sweet, the ending was satisfying, and there were a few moments that genuinely had me wondering what was going to happen next. Like on the edge of my seat type of moments (all thanks to Matteo gosh he was so annoying 😭) Unfortunately, the unrealistic aspects of the trek itself kept pulling me out of the story enough that I couldn’t fully immerse myself in it, but overall, still a cute read. I just wish the wilderness and backpacking elements had felt a little more believable.
favorite quotes ↓
“Keep me safe?”
“Yeah,” I say as I wrap my arm around her, pulling her in tight. “That’s my job.”
“I thought yoga was supposed to be peaceful,” Thorn whispers.
“I never applied for the military for a reason,” I agree.
things to know about the book ↓
🥾 forced proximity
🥾 strangers → lovers
🥾 wilderness adventure
🥾 opposites attract
🥾 personal growth journey
🥾 supportive MMC
🥾 learning to embrace yourself
🥾 dual POV
swearing: yes (mild)
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
→ chapters: 17, 23
Thank you NetGalley, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 🌲🥾𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
i'm ready for some wilderness romance hehe
𝄞 ࿐♬ 𓍢ִ🎧ྀི ᯓ ♪ˎˊ˗
“ᴇɴᴅꜱ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴇᴀʀᴛʜ” x ʟᴏʀᴅ ʜᴜʀᴏɴ
2:22 ─────♥───── 4:44
Okay so going into this as someone who’s done a bit of backpacking and hiking before, I had a really hard time overlooking some of the technical aspects of the story. 😬 There were multiple moments that pulled me completely out of it because they felt so unrealistic. You’re telling me Sadie showed up for a weeks-long wilderness trek in tennis shoes and Thorn, an experienced trek leader, just… let that happen? 😭 There’s no way she was the first inexperienced city girl he’d ever guided, and I kept thinking someone should’ve stepped in way sooner. That being said, I did try to give Sadie some grace because she genuinely had no idea what she was getting herself into. Some of the things she packed made me laugh, and while it didn’t always feel believable, I could appreciate that she was completely out of her comfort zone.
What I ended up loving most was Sadie’s personal growth. She started this entire adventure trying to prove something to her ex, but somewhere along the way, it became about proving something to herself instead. Watching her realize she was capable of hard things (even while terrified) was honestly my favorite part of the book. She kept showing up, even when she was uncomfortable, scared, and surrounded by strangers. That took courage.
I also really appreciated the message that there wasn’t actually anything wrong with who Sadie was in the first place. She wasn’t “too much” because she liked to plan ahead. She wasn’t broken because she preferred nice hotels over sleeping on the ground. Thorn constantly reminded her that being organized and prepared isn’t a flaw, and I loved that the story never tried to force her into becoming a completely different person who all of a sudden was super into the outdoors. She still loved her nice things.
The romance was sweet, the ending was satisfying, and there were a few moments that genuinely had me wondering what was going to happen next. Like on the edge of my seat type of moments (all thanks to Matteo gosh he was so annoying 😭) Unfortunately, the unrealistic aspects of the trek itself kept pulling me out of the story enough that I couldn’t fully immerse myself in it, but overall, still a cute read. I just wish the wilderness and backpacking elements had felt a little more believable.
favorite quotes ↓
“Keep me safe?”
“Yeah,” I say as I wrap my arm around her, pulling her in tight. “That’s my job.”
“I thought yoga was supposed to be peaceful,” Thorn whispers.
“I never applied for the military for a reason,” I agree.
things to know about the book ↓
🥾 forced proximity
🥾 strangers → lovers
🥾 wilderness adventure
🥾 opposites attract
🥾 personal growth journey
🥾 supportive MMC
🥾 learning to embrace yourself
🥾 dual POV
swearing: yes (mild)
spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
→ chapters: 17, 23
Thank you NetGalley, publisher & author for this arc in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
─────────
・❥・⁀➷ 🌲🥾𝕡𝕣𝕖-𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕕
i'm ready for some wilderness romance hehe
June 23, 2026
Rating: 3.5⭐️
The blurb of this book immediately interested me and it was so easy to relate to the female lead Sadie. Yes, she was a bit high maintenance, but she was also brave, funny and kind. It takes a lot of courage to step out of your comfort zone and try something new and different. I admired how she handled herself in the wilderness because I know without a doubt that I couldn’t do what she did. She adapted and hardly complained about the conditions. She was honestly a real trooper. I loved reading about her growth and watching her realize she had more inner strength than she realized.
As for the male lead Thorn, I adored him. He was such a good guy and had great chemistry and banter with Sadie. I was obsessed with them from the start and I was rooting for them. I did get annoyed with him once he started letting his feelings for Sadie get in the way of doing his job. He just became more mopey and it was not attractive. It dragged the book a bit for me.
But all in all, this book surprised me and I enjoyed it.
The blurb of this book immediately interested me and it was so easy to relate to the female lead Sadie. Yes, she was a bit high maintenance, but she was also brave, funny and kind. It takes a lot of courage to step out of your comfort zone and try something new and different. I admired how she handled herself in the wilderness because I know without a doubt that I couldn’t do what she did. She adapted and hardly complained about the conditions. She was honestly a real trooper. I loved reading about her growth and watching her realize she had more inner strength than she realized.
As for the male lead Thorn, I adored him. He was such a good guy and had great chemistry and banter with Sadie. I was obsessed with them from the start and I was rooting for them. I did get annoyed with him once he started letting his feelings for Sadie get in the way of doing his job. He just became more mopey and it was not attractive. It dragged the book a bit for me.
But all in all, this book surprised me and I enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
rating: 4.25 ★
"𝒊𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓— 𝒊𝒇 𝒘𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏 ... 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒐 𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒏."
sadie has never claimed to be anything other than herself - a planner who knows exactly what she likes and what she wants. when she's blindsided with a breakup by her long term boyfriend for being too high maintenance she's determined to prove him wrong. sadie immediately signs up for a hiking expedition that her ex had been talking about to show him she can be flexible and doesn't need her creature comforts. the only problem? her ex doesn't actually sign up. still wanting to prove her ex wrong she follows through with the hike. while she went into it out of spite what she quickly finds is a journey of self discovery, self love and a very attractive hiking guide named august thorn.
oh my god this book made my outdoorsy, hiker heart so happy. olson perfectly captured the backpacking experience down to whole body soreness, the blisters and exhaustion only to happily wake up and do the whole damn thing over again the next day. and the way she described the nature in each individual leg of the hike? perfection.
the progression of the romance was honestly so refreshing. no rushed i love yous, no insta love or lust just two people who getting to know each other and realizing there was something more there for both of them.
i really admired the way that every single character was written. from the main characters to the side characters the way olson writes makes them actually felt like real people. no one, and i mean no one in this book was written as if they were perfect. i also really appreciated that we got to know each of the side characters, even if it was just a little bit it was nice for them not to be "the tennis girls" or "the coffee bros."
this was my first kayla olson book but it definitely wont be my last. 😩
𝐩𝐫𝐞-𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 ⋆˚࿔
𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘢𝘺𝘭𝘢 𝘰𝘭𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘦-𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 💖
"𝒊𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓— 𝒊𝒇 𝒘𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏 ... 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒚 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒃𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆 𝒔𝒐 𝒄𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒍𝒚 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒎𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒊 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒏."
sadie has never claimed to be anything other than herself - a planner who knows exactly what she likes and what she wants. when she's blindsided with a breakup by her long term boyfriend for being too high maintenance she's determined to prove him wrong. sadie immediately signs up for a hiking expedition that her ex had been talking about to show him she can be flexible and doesn't need her creature comforts. the only problem? her ex doesn't actually sign up. still wanting to prove her ex wrong she follows through with the hike. while she went into it out of spite what she quickly finds is a journey of self discovery, self love and a very attractive hiking guide named august thorn.
oh my god this book made my outdoorsy, hiker heart so happy. olson perfectly captured the backpacking experience down to whole body soreness, the blisters and exhaustion only to happily wake up and do the whole damn thing over again the next day. and the way she described the nature in each individual leg of the hike? perfection.
the progression of the romance was honestly so refreshing. no rushed i love yous, no insta love or lust just two people who getting to know each other and realizing there was something more there for both of them.
i really admired the way that every single character was written. from the main characters to the side characters the way olson writes makes them actually felt like real people. no one, and i mean no one in this book was written as if they were perfect. i also really appreciated that we got to know each of the side characters, even if it was just a little bit it was nice for them not to be "the tennis girls" or "the coffee bros."
this was my first kayla olson book but it definitely wont be my last. 😩
𝐩𝐫𝐞-𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 ⋆˚࿔
𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘢𝘺𝘭𝘢 𝘰𝘭𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘢𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘦-𝘢𝘳𝘤 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 💖
June 15, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from Netgalley
This was a charming, entertaining, and quick rom-com about a woman with something to prove. After Sadie’s boyfriend dumps her for being too high-maintenance, she signs up for a twelve-day wilderness trek in the woods of California to prove that she isn’t. Fortunately for Sadie, her dickhead ex doesn’t actually sign up for the trek like he said he would. What starts as the desire to prove she’s not what he says she is becomes about realizing that there is nothing wrong with the person she is. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the trek is led by an extremely attractive wilderness guide.
I honestly didn’t think I’d like Sadie very much, but I was very pleasantly surprised to find that I did. I liked that she didn’t just become a completely different person at the end of the trek. She proved to herself that she was capable of doing things that were out of her comfort zone and left that trek with a new perspective on life, but she also remained who she was at her core.
Thorn I loved from the moment we met him. Not only is he a gorgeous man, he was also attentive, kind, and thoughtful. He liked Sadie for who she was and never tried to change her. What I especially appreciated about him was that he wasn’t perfectly flawless. His life didn’t just revolve around Sadie. He had his own demons to fight—one of whom was literally leading the trek with him—and fears to overcome when it came to getting too close to Sadie. His journal and the little things he did at each place they hiked to honor his father who could no longer do those things with him were so beautiful to read. All in all, he felt like a person who could actually exist in the real world (although if any of you have found a man like that, please let me know, because I sure as hell have not).
Now that I think about it, pretty much every single character in this book felt very real. Even the side characters were fleshed out to a level that was surprising coming from a rom-com like this. The characters weren’t just there to progress Sadie and Thorn’s story; they had their own feelings, their own problems, their own lives. It was very refreshing to read.
I’m also pleased to say that despite the fact that they fell for each other in less than eleven days, the romance never felt rushed or like insta-love, which I despise. I really enjoyed their banter and how they could rib each other without ever being cruel. I do have to say, it is kind of crazy to pack up your whole life and move for someone you’ve known for not even two weeks, but I guess when you know, you know.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
thank you to the publisher for the arc♡
This was a charming, entertaining, and quick rom-com about a woman with something to prove. After Sadie’s boyfriend dumps her for being too high-maintenance, she signs up for a twelve-day wilderness trek in the woods of California to prove that she isn’t. Fortunately for Sadie, her dickhead ex doesn’t actually sign up for the trek like he said he would. What starts as the desire to prove she’s not what he says she is becomes about realizing that there is nothing wrong with the person she is. And it certainly doesn’t hurt that the trek is led by an extremely attractive wilderness guide.
I honestly didn’t think I’d like Sadie very much, but I was very pleasantly surprised to find that I did. I liked that she didn’t just become a completely different person at the end of the trek. She proved to herself that she was capable of doing things that were out of her comfort zone and left that trek with a new perspective on life, but she also remained who she was at her core.
Thorn I loved from the moment we met him. Not only is he a gorgeous man, he was also attentive, kind, and thoughtful. He liked Sadie for who she was and never tried to change her. What I especially appreciated about him was that he wasn’t perfectly flawless. His life didn’t just revolve around Sadie. He had his own demons to fight—one of whom was literally leading the trek with him—and fears to overcome when it came to getting too close to Sadie. His journal and the little things he did at each place they hiked to honor his father who could no longer do those things with him were so beautiful to read. All in all, he felt like a person who could actually exist in the real world (although if any of you have found a man like that, please let me know, because I sure as hell have not).
Now that I think about it, pretty much every single character in this book felt very real. Even the side characters were fleshed out to a level that was surprising coming from a rom-com like this. The characters weren’t just there to progress Sadie and Thorn’s story; they had their own feelings, their own problems, their own lives. It was very refreshing to read.
I’m also pleased to say that despite the fact that they fell for each other in less than eleven days, the romance never felt rushed or like insta-love, which I despise. I really enjoyed their banter and how they could rib each other without ever being cruel. I do have to say, it is kind of crazy to pack up your whole life and move for someone you’ve known for not even two weeks, but I guess when you know, you know.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
thank you to the publisher for the arc♡
July 13, 2026
This book was actually so good and had really cute dialogue between the mcs. I went in totally blind, not realizing it’s a clean romance. But yea, no smut for anyone wondering but the tension and yearning is definitely there🥵
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
2.5⭐
Sadie’s boyfriend breaks up with her because she is “too high-maintenance” and not into risky outdoor activities, so she decides to sign up for a weeks-long guided wilderness adventure in the High Sierras. Of course, the guide turns out to be very handsome and kind, so he immediately starts attracting her.
This book reminded me of early-2000s rom-com movies, where a girl is pushed outside her comfort zone. For example, the FMC brings a lot of unnecessary things with her, like perfume, pink fluffy slippers, etc. But throughout the book, she transforms and starts appreciating different things. Was it interesting for me to read this in 2026? Honestly, not really. In fact, she adapts to the new circumstances quite easily. The romance with August also felt very sudden, and I find it hard to believe that their relationship would last after the hiking trip in real life.
But if you want to spend an evening with a light read with a summer atmosphere in the wilderness, then this is a good option. I felt like I had gone camping with them myself.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Sadie’s boyfriend breaks up with her because she is “too high-maintenance” and not into risky outdoor activities, so she decides to sign up for a weeks-long guided wilderness adventure in the High Sierras. Of course, the guide turns out to be very handsome and kind, so he immediately starts attracting her.
This book reminded me of early-2000s rom-com movies, where a girl is pushed outside her comfort zone. For example, the FMC brings a lot of unnecessary things with her, like perfume, pink fluffy slippers, etc. But throughout the book, she transforms and starts appreciating different things. Was it interesting for me to read this in 2026? Honestly, not really. In fact, she adapts to the new circumstances quite easily. The romance with August also felt very sudden, and I find it hard to believe that their relationship would last after the hiking trip in real life.
But if you want to spend an evening with a light read with a summer atmosphere in the wilderness, then this is a good option. I felt like I had gone camping with them myself.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2026
Ahhhh, I was so excited going into this book! The cover was adorable and I couldn’t wait to see how the romance played out. Let’s dig in….
𝙎𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙚: Oh my goossshhhhhh. Ngl, she’s kind of annoying😭 Is there a possibility that someone can be considered to much?? Yes. Yes there is. I wanted to pull my hair out throughout A LOT of the book🙈 I will give it to her….she put herself out there and didn’t give up. She was a trooper throughout the hike. Like…not everyone is fit for the kind of hike she went on (she wasn’t even fit for it, but somehow she still did it) 🤷🏼♀️ Was there character growth with her? Yeesssss?? Maaayybbeeee? Ok, there was. She did get much more tolerable by the end🙌🏻🙌🏻
Even though she wasn’t my favorite person ever, she had some very good sides to her personality. She was very attentive. I loved how she payed attention to the people in her group and made an effort to befriend them🫶🏻
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙣: Hmm….lets be honest…he does sound like he’d be attractive 😏 His dry humor had me laughing. He also had such a caring heart. He payed attention to the needs of others (for the most part)
I mean, until he started letting his feelings get in the way of his job and possibly put some of the campers in danger from not being completely alert. hehehe….Not wise my man…not wise🙂↔️
Oh well, I guess you live and you learn🤷🏼♀️
𝙈𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙤: *eye twitch* you know that one character I always pick to be on my bad side? He’s the one I picked this time.
(and 𝗭𝗼𝗲)
OH MY GOODNESS THE SHOWER PART AT THE CAMPSITE😭😭 I almost died. Like actually probably passed out😳😳😑
(iykyk)
Yeah, that’s all I have. This wasn’t a bad read. It kept me interested until the end for most of the time. I do have to say….my favorite part was the last 8 pages of the book. It ended very well🙌🏻
I would not necessarily read it again though🤷🏼♀️
FAVE QUOTES👇🏻
“𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐫, 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐧." 𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭
"𝐖𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐝𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞."
𝐈'𝐦 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐡𝐞'𝐬 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞, 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞-𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬.
"𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐰?"
"𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲'𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰—𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧'𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐲𝐞𝐭."
"𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞?" 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲, 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧.
"𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠," 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲. "𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐭-𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠."
𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 —> 🌶️
𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 —> yes (minimal)
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ ♡ ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙤𝙥𝙮:) 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣!
𝙎𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙚: Oh my goossshhhhhh. Ngl, she’s kind of annoying😭 Is there a possibility that someone can be considered to much?? Yes. Yes there is. I wanted to pull my hair out throughout A LOT of the book🙈 I will give it to her….she put herself out there and didn’t give up. She was a trooper throughout the hike. Like…not everyone is fit for the kind of hike she went on (she wasn’t even fit for it, but somehow she still did it) 🤷🏼♀️ Was there character growth with her? Yeesssss?? Maaayybbeeee? Ok, there was. She did get much more tolerable by the end🙌🏻🙌🏻
Even though she wasn’t my favorite person ever, she had some very good sides to her personality. She was very attentive. I loved how she payed attention to the people in her group and made an effort to befriend them🫶🏻
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙣: Hmm….lets be honest…he does sound like he’d be attractive 😏 His dry humor had me laughing. He also had such a caring heart. He payed attention to the needs of others (for the most part)
I mean, until he started letting his feelings get in the way of his job and possibly put some of the campers in danger from not being completely alert. hehehe….Not wise my man…not wise🙂↔️
Oh well, I guess you live and you learn🤷🏼♀️
𝙈𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙤: *eye twitch* you know that one character I always pick to be on my bad side? He’s the one I picked this time.
(and 𝗭𝗼𝗲)
OH MY GOODNESS THE SHOWER PART AT THE CAMPSITE😭😭 I almost died. Like actually probably passed out😳😳😑
(iykyk)
Yeah, that’s all I have. This wasn’t a bad read. It kept me interested until the end for most of the time. I do have to say….my favorite part was the last 8 pages of the book. It ended very well🙌🏻
I would not necessarily read it again though🤷🏼♀️
FAVE QUOTES👇🏻
“𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐫𝐞 𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐫, 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐧." 𝐇𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭
"𝐖𝐞 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐝𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞."
𝐈'𝐦 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐡𝐞'𝐬 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞, 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞-𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐢𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬.
"𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐰?"
"𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲'𝐯𝐞 𝐠𝐨𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞, 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰—𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧'𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐲𝐞𝐭."
"𝐀𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧𝐞?" 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲, 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧.
"𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠," 𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐥𝐲. "𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐭-𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠."
𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙘𝙚 —> 🌶️
𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 —> yes (minimal)
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆ ♡ ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
𝙎𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙂𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙣 𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝘾𝙤𝙥𝙮:) 𝘼𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙬𝙣!
June 18, 2026
I read Kayla Olsen's last book 'The Lodge' and absolutely loved it so I was SO excited to be approved for an ARC of this one!!
One thing Olsen does well is writing about scenic destinations and romances. This was a fun romp through the American Southwest's desert backcountry, and I really loved our main character's overcoming the struggles of being a bit fussy.. AKA a prissy pants. Anyone can choose to start loving the outdoors, and I think it's a GREAT gift!!
HOUSEKEEPING:
* Spice: 🌶️/5
* Reader Age Suggestions: New Adult+ (Not overly spicy)
* Content Warnings: --
* Kindle Unlimited: ❌
* Part of A Series: ❌/ Can it be read alone?: Yes
**Thank you Atria Books for the ARC! I rec3ived this book for fr3e, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
One thing Olsen does well is writing about scenic destinations and romances. This was a fun romp through the American Southwest's desert backcountry, and I really loved our main character's overcoming the struggles of being a bit fussy.. AKA a prissy pants. Anyone can choose to start loving the outdoors, and I think it's a GREAT gift!!
HOUSEKEEPING:
* Spice: 🌶️/5
* Reader Age Suggestions: New Adult+ (Not overly spicy)
* Content Warnings: --
* Kindle Unlimited: ❌
* Part of A Series: ❌/ Can it be read alone?: Yes
**Thank you Atria Books for the ARC! I rec3ived this book for fr3e, but all thoughts are my own. – SLR🖤
Follow me on Instagram for honest reviews, bookish freebies & giveaways! 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4⭐️
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.
"She's the first person in years who's made me feel aliveThis 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.
June 16, 2026
Sometimes you pick up a book because you're in the mood for something dramatic, twisty, or emotionally devastating.
And sometimes you just want a relaxing, feel-good romance that leaves you smiling.
For me, The Great Outdoors was definitely the second one. :D
As the blurb says, Sadie signs up for a wilderness adventure after her douche boyfriend breaks up with her for being "too high-maintenance." Determined to prove both to herself and to him that she's capable of more than luxury hotels and perfectly planned itineraries, she heads into the wilderness for a hiking trip that is very much outside her comfort zone.
The irony?
The ex who inspired this whole adventure doesn't even show up for the trip. See ..douche, like I told you. Boo hoo !!!!
I have to admit, I really liked Sadie. Yes, she's a planner. Yes, she's probably overprepared for everything. But watching her push herself outside her comfort zone was genuinely enjoyable. There were moments where I wanted to cheer for her, even when she wasn't entirely cheering for herself.
And then there's August.
Poor August.
My guy tried so hard to resist his attraction to Sadie. He really did. But let's just say I had a front-row seat with popcorn while that plan slowly fell apart ...
I absolutely adored him. Beneath the capable tour-guide exterior, he's such a sweetheart, and some of my favorite moments involved his loyalty and relationships outside of the romance itself. My only complaint is that he really tried to make some sort of peace, for the sake of the trip at least, with his ex-bf, who was the second guide, but mnope, I would've send that guy in a ditch, buuut that's also petty me so, ignore me!
The outdoor adventure aspect was also a huge highlight for me. Kayaking, rappelling, fishing, hiking, camping; it all felt fresh and fun. As someone who reads a lot of fantasy, mysteries, thrillers and small-town romances, it was refreshing to spend time in a completely different setting for a change.
The wilderness almost became its own character, and I loved seeing both Sadie and August navigate it together.
Honestly, I don't have many complaints. This was simply a cozy, relaxing, and genuinely enjoyable romance that put a smile on my face.
⭐️ 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
And sometimes you just want a relaxing, feel-good romance that leaves you smiling.
For me, The Great Outdoors was definitely the second one. :D
As the blurb says, Sadie signs up for a wilderness adventure after her douche boyfriend breaks up with her for being "too high-maintenance." Determined to prove both to herself and to him that she's capable of more than luxury hotels and perfectly planned itineraries, she heads into the wilderness for a hiking trip that is very much outside her comfort zone.
The irony?
The ex who inspired this whole adventure doesn't even show up for the trip. See ..douche, like I told you. Boo hoo !!!!
I have to admit, I really liked Sadie. Yes, she's a planner. Yes, she's probably overprepared for everything. But watching her push herself outside her comfort zone was genuinely enjoyable. There were moments where I wanted to cheer for her, even when she wasn't entirely cheering for herself.
And then there's August.
Poor August.
My guy tried so hard to resist his attraction to Sadie. He really did. But let's just say I had a front-row seat with popcorn while that plan slowly fell apart ...
I absolutely adored him. Beneath the capable tour-guide exterior, he's such a sweetheart, and some of my favorite moments involved his loyalty and relationships outside of the romance itself. My only complaint is that he really tried to make some sort of peace, for the sake of the trip at least, with his ex-bf, who was the second guide, but mnope, I would've send that guy in a ditch, buuut that's also petty me so, ignore me!
The outdoor adventure aspect was also a huge highlight for me. Kayaking, rappelling, fishing, hiking, camping; it all felt fresh and fun. As someone who reads a lot of fantasy, mysteries, thrillers and small-town romances, it was refreshing to spend time in a completely different setting for a change.
The wilderness almost became its own character, and I loved seeing both Sadie and August navigate it together.
Honestly, I don't have many complaints. This was simply a cozy, relaxing, and genuinely enjoyable romance that put a smile on my face.
⭐️ 4.5 stars, rounded up to 5.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.
https://turnthepagewithana.blogspot.c...
July 22, 2026
When very type-A Sadie Whitlock is dubbed high maintenance and dumped by her laid back boyfriend, she decides to prove to him (and maybe herself) wrong by joining a weeks-long wilderness trek. Adventurer and tour guide August Thorn cannot seem to keep his distance.
This book felt like a breath of fresh air. Of course, I’ve been a fan of her writing since her debut novel, THE REUNION, but this light summer romance set in the High Sierras was wholly unexpected. At times, I found myself outright cackling, particularly around Sadie and her severe overpacking catastrophe, which I related to more than I care to admit (freshly brewed coffee, perfume, and a touch lamp are essential to hiking, are they not?) At others, I was completely head over heels for the sweet dynamic Sadie and Thorn had managed to develop in the midst of the hiking hijinks and scarier moments.
This is definitely a great book to add to your beach bag this summer. And I anxiously await her next release.
Read if you like:
▪️outdoor adventures
▪️forced proximity
▪️quirky characters
▪️social media element
▪️closed door romance
Thank you Atria Books for the advanced copy.
This book felt like a breath of fresh air. Of course, I’ve been a fan of her writing since her debut novel, THE REUNION, but this light summer romance set in the High Sierras was wholly unexpected. At times, I found myself outright cackling, particularly around Sadie and her severe overpacking catastrophe, which I related to more than I care to admit (freshly brewed coffee, perfume, and a touch lamp are essential to hiking, are they not?) At others, I was completely head over heels for the sweet dynamic Sadie and Thorn had managed to develop in the midst of the hiking hijinks and scarier moments.
This is definitely a great book to add to your beach bag this summer. And I anxiously await her next release.
Read if you like:
▪️outdoor adventures
▪️forced proximity
▪️quirky characters
▪️social media element
▪️closed door romance
Thank you Atria Books for the advanced copy.
May 29, 2026
5⭐️!!!!
This is one of my new favorite rom coms of all time 🥹 after Sadie is dumped unexpectedly by her boyfriend because she is “too high maintenance”, she signs up on a whim for an intensive hiking trip to prove him wrong. She thought her ex would be there and she could show him that he was wrong about her, but he didn’t show up and she is there on her own. She’s not outdoorsy at all so it’s so outside of her comfort zone, and she slowly falls for the hiking guide! I LOVED her journey of self discovery and growth, and I thought her and Thorn were so good together and so supportive of each other! This is definitely one I’ll re read again and would absolutely recommend a million times over!!
This is one of my new favorite rom coms of all time 🥹 after Sadie is dumped unexpectedly by her boyfriend because she is “too high maintenance”, she signs up on a whim for an intensive hiking trip to prove him wrong. She thought her ex would be there and she could show him that he was wrong about her, but he didn’t show up and she is there on her own. She’s not outdoorsy at all so it’s so outside of her comfort zone, and she slowly falls for the hiking guide! I LOVED her journey of self discovery and growth, and I thought her and Thorn were so good together and so supportive of each other! This is definitely one I’ll re read again and would absolutely recommend a million times over!!
June 21, 2026
Part of my June readathon and the book I SOARED through! So fun, I was giggling and gasping. I really enjoyed all the twists and turns this book took. Found the romance very believable and charming! Should I go on a wilderness hike?
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🌄 The Great Outdoors🌄
✨Thorn & Sadie foreverrrr ✨
Ugh I loved this so much! Thorn was my absolute freaking favorite! Sadie grew so much and I loved her equally as much! Together they were honestly such a cute couple and matched so well. Thorn made some stupid decisions towards the end but he redeemed himself.
I did want to punch Matheo the entire freaking time! And Thorn was way too forgiving the entire book because honestly Matheo was scum and deserved everything that happened to him. There were a couple of others who also drove me nuts. But Matheo was actual trash!
🌲 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.
✨Thorn & Sadie foreverrrr ✨
Ugh I loved this so much! Thorn was my absolute freaking favorite! Sadie grew so much and I loved her equally as much! Together they were honestly such a cute couple and matched so well. Thorn made some stupid decisions towards the end but he redeemed himself.
I did want to punch Matheo the entire freaking time! And Thorn was way too forgiving the entire book because honestly Matheo was scum and deserved everything that happened to him. There were a couple of others who also drove me nuts. But Matheo was actual trash!
🌲 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.
June 12, 2026
Kayla Olson’s The Great Outdoors is a charming and entertaining rom com that combines adventure, self discovery, and romance against the stunning backdrop of California’s High Sierras. What begins as a humorous attempt by Sadie Whitlock to prove she’s not “high maintenance” quickly evolves into a story about embracing uncertainty, challenging your own perceptions, and discovering that growth often happens far outside your comfort zone. The wilderness trek provides a unique setting that feels fresh and immersive, adding both excitement and genuine stakes to the story.
Sadie is an easy protagonist to root for. Her meticulous planning and preference for luxury make her a fish out of water in the rugged outdoors, but watching her adapt and push herself beyond her limits is incredibly satisfying. Her dynamic with trek leader August Thorn is equally compelling. Their differences create plenty of humor and tension, while their growing connection develops naturally throughout the journey. Olson balances swoony romance with personal growth, allowing both characters to evolve in meaningful ways.
With beautiful scenery, engaging characters, and a romance that unfolds amid unexpected challenges, The Great Outdoors is the perfect summer read. Equal parts heartfelt, funny, and adventurous, it’s a story about taking risks, embracing change, and discovering that sometimes the best journeys are the ones you never planned to take.
June 1, 2026
THE GREAT OUTDOORS by @authorkaylaolson
📖 book review • out 06.16.26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you so much @atriabooks for my gifted ARC!
oh I loveddd this book - the setting was 10/10 and the absolute best book to bring with me to the mountains! I completely binged this entire story in less than 2 days while staying in a secluded cabin in the blue ridge mountains • the vibes were 🤌🏻
Sadie is *high* maintenance & feels the need to prove to her ex exactly how *low* maintenance she can be by embarking on a two week long wilderness trek of hiking, camping, kayaking - and she quickly becomes close to the trek’s leader, August Thorn.
I loved both the main characters so much, loved their chemistry, and found myself laughing out loud and giddy so many times. I can’t wait to read the rest of her backlist 🤍
📖 book review • out 06.16.26
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
thank you so much @atriabooks for my gifted ARC!
oh I loveddd this book - the setting was 10/10 and the absolute best book to bring with me to the mountains! I completely binged this entire story in less than 2 days while staying in a secluded cabin in the blue ridge mountains • the vibes were 🤌🏻
Sadie is *high* maintenance & feels the need to prove to her ex exactly how *low* maintenance she can be by embarking on a two week long wilderness trek of hiking, camping, kayaking - and she quickly becomes close to the trek’s leader, August Thorn.
I loved both the main characters so much, loved their chemistry, and found myself laughing out loud and giddy so many times. I can’t wait to read the rest of her backlist 🤍
May 11, 2026
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
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
March 4, 2026
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.
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.
June 29, 2026
4 ⭐️
thank you to the publisher for the egalley💚
⋆˙⟡ tropes ⟡˙⋆
💋 high maintenance fmc x outdoorsy mmc
🏕️ only one tent
🪵 opposites attract
🌲forced proximity
🎒 slow burn
🏔️ self discovery
⋆˙⟡ thoughts ⟡˙⋆
this was a cute read, especially for summertime. sadie’s character development was everything. she learns a lot about herself and what she deserves while trying things out of her comfort zone. i’m very much like sadie on the premise to want to always be prepared for everything, yet some things just happen.
can we also discuss her ex, trash. thorn on the other hand… 👀 i absolutely adored them together, and as individual characters. i liked the pacing of their romance and seeing them get to know one another. super sweet!
⋆˙⟡ synopsis ⟡˙⋆
sadie has always been praised for being the most prepared person in the room and always makes sure her life runs perfectly as planned. when her boyfriend breaks up with her for being “too high maintenance,” she is eager to prove him wrong, and signs herself up for a weeks long guided wilderness adventure: camping, hiking, rappelling, and kayaking. she does have a compelling tour guide: august. he lives for adventure and always keeps a professional distance from the trekkers under his care, but there’s just something about sadie.
thank you to the publisher for the egalley💚
⋆˙⟡ tropes ⟡˙⋆
💋 high maintenance fmc x outdoorsy mmc
🏕️ only one tent
🪵 opposites attract
🌲forced proximity
🎒 slow burn
🏔️ self discovery
⋆˙⟡ thoughts ⟡˙⋆
this was a cute read, especially for summertime. sadie’s character development was everything. she learns a lot about herself and what she deserves while trying things out of her comfort zone. i’m very much like sadie on the premise to want to always be prepared for everything, yet some things just happen.
can we also discuss her ex, trash. thorn on the other hand… 👀 i absolutely adored them together, and as individual characters. i liked the pacing of their romance and seeing them get to know one another. super sweet!
⋆˙⟡ synopsis ⟡˙⋆
sadie has always been praised for being the most prepared person in the room and always makes sure her life runs perfectly as planned. when her boyfriend breaks up with her for being “too high maintenance,” she is eager to prove him wrong, and signs herself up for a weeks long guided wilderness adventure: camping, hiking, rappelling, and kayaking. she does have a compelling tour guide: august. he lives for adventure and always keeps a professional distance from the trekkers under his care, but there’s just something about sadie.
June 15, 2026
5/5 stars
Thank you @Atriabooks and @Netgalley for this arc in exchange for my review!
I absolutely adored with book! It was my first book by Kayla Olson, and it definitely won't be my last. I loved everything from the setting, characters, humor, banter and the ending was perfection!
I've seen this book described as 'Elle Woods signing up for an intense hike/camping trip after a breakup instead of applying to Harvard' and that is the perfect way to lay out this book! At first, I was nervous on how Sadie was going to do on this hike, but she surprised me as much as she surprised herself.
Oh Thorn, what a sweet, caring and authentic guy that truly wants others to succeed! The only person I didn't like was Matheo, he annoyed me the whole time!
This book had quite a few twists and turns (no pun intended) and I loved to see how it all got resolved at the end. I would for sure read this book again!
Read this book if you like:
-Opposites attract
-Wilderness Survival
-Forced Proximity
-High-maintenance FMC
-Grumpy guide MMC
Thank you @Atriabooks and @Netgalley for this arc in exchange for my review!
I absolutely adored with book! It was my first book by Kayla Olson, and it definitely won't be my last. I loved everything from the setting, characters, humor, banter and the ending was perfection!
I've seen this book described as 'Elle Woods signing up for an intense hike/camping trip after a breakup instead of applying to Harvard' and that is the perfect way to lay out this book! At first, I was nervous on how Sadie was going to do on this hike, but she surprised me as much as she surprised herself.
Oh Thorn, what a sweet, caring and authentic guy that truly wants others to succeed! The only person I didn't like was Matheo, he annoyed me the whole time!
This book had quite a few twists and turns (no pun intended) and I loved to see how it all got resolved at the end. I would for sure read this book again!
Read this book if you like:
-Opposites attract
-Wilderness Survival
-Forced Proximity
-High-maintenance FMC
-Grumpy guide MMC
June 22, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ rounded to 5!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Atria for the ARC copy of The Great Outdoors!
I absolutely adored The Reunion and The Lodge, so I was extremely excited to get a copy of Kayla’s new book!
As soon as I read the author’s note that referenced both Troop Beverly Hills and Legally Blonde, I knew this as going to be the book for me! I was instantly sold!
Sadie was so relatable as someone who also overthinks everything! I would also be completely out of my element doing a two week hiking trip that involved camping. I too would have wanted to take all of my comfort items from home!
I loved the relationship that developed between Sadie and Thorn! I really enjoyed Sadie’s journey within herself as well. She finally learned to trust and accept herself for who she is, while also challenging herself to do hard things!
I adored everything about this book! Now I want to go hiking (without the camping 😂)!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Atria for the ARC copy of The Great Outdoors!
I absolutely adored The Reunion and The Lodge, so I was extremely excited to get a copy of Kayla’s new book!
As soon as I read the author’s note that referenced both Troop Beverly Hills and Legally Blonde, I knew this as going to be the book for me! I was instantly sold!
Sadie was so relatable as someone who also overthinks everything! I would also be completely out of my element doing a two week hiking trip that involved camping. I too would have wanted to take all of my comfort items from home!
I loved the relationship that developed between Sadie and Thorn! I really enjoyed Sadie’s journey within herself as well. She finally learned to trust and accept herself for who she is, while also challenging herself to do hard things!
I adored everything about this book! Now I want to go hiking (without the camping 😂)!
July 14, 2026
4.5 stars - loved this because 1) it made me laugh and just plain smile alot, 2) it made me want to go on this hike - well except for the last part where you climb a mountain, and 3) because the over packing and under packing of our FMC was about par with what I would do/take on that same trip - inappropriate shoes included. I could not put this book down and oddly it was G rated as far as the steam went but that did not matter. In fact, it was a nice palate cleanser from the "oh my gosh, is there an actual plot between the spice scenes" books that I seem to be picking up lately.
July 15, 2026
Tohle je strašně miloučký letní ňuf pro všechny hiking felas (co zvládnou špetku dramatu a slečnu s úplně blbě sbaleným batohem a nevhodnou obuví) :D
Ale fakt se tam celou dobu ťape a spí v lese ve stanu a mi to dělalo radost. *only one tent indeed*
Ale fakt se tam celou dobu ťape a spí v lese ve stanu a mi to dělalo radost. *only one tent indeed*
December 7, 2025
3.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Full review to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Full review to follow.
June 22, 2026
This is my favorite of Kayla's book so far. I absolutely loved this Elle Wood's coded romcom. The main character of Sadie was so refreshing. I loved her agency, optimism, and drive and watching her appreciate those things about herself. The romance with swoony Thorn was sweet and the details felt so well-researched. I felt like I was right there at the camp site and hiking. The sprinkling of danger and what could go wrong on a trip like this felt very realistic as opposed to over-the-top. Definitely add this one to your beach bag this summer!
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 30, 2026
This was, cute, if you have never in your entire life, EVER, literally not even once, hiked or backpacked. I imagine, in that circumstance, you can read this and appreciate the meet-cute, the stakes, the romance, all of it really. But if you have one little shred of hiking/backpacking experience, I doubt you will be able to make it through this without being incredibly frustrated. I truly wish the author had done even a small amount of research before taking a character off into the Yosemite backcountry, at elevation, on her first ever backpacking expedition, for 12 days. Example one, it is a tent STAKE, not a tent PEG (*edit: I have been informed this is regional, so not as egregious as I thought, but still, everything else, NO). WTF.
Listen, I get this is a romance. I am not being extra critical here; it is just incredibly noticeable and continuously took me out of the story. There is a zero percent chance that an experienced mountaineer leading a 12 day backcountry trip is going to allow one of his clients to wear tennis shoes. Also, the amount of shit Sadie has in her pack is completely unbelievable. She has nothing she needs and everything she doesn’t. IE: WHERE IS HER FOOD & WATER? As someone that has carried a pack into the backcountry, every single OUNCE matters, and this girl is bringing not one, not two, but three bottles of nail polish? She is bringing face masks and three sets of silk pjs? A swimsuit and a swimsuit cover up WITH a giant sun hat? No no no no. I could go on and on about this, but alas, you get it.
And speaking of the romance…this would never last. EVER. You seriously want me to believe that Thorn is going to leave his lifetime of mountaineering in Yosemite to move to Texas and lead excursions there for Sadie the influencer who, yes backpacked, but also hated it? Guys? Have you been to Yosemite?
2.5 stars for me.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Listen, I get this is a romance. I am not being extra critical here; it is just incredibly noticeable and continuously took me out of the story. There is a zero percent chance that an experienced mountaineer leading a 12 day backcountry trip is going to allow one of his clients to wear tennis shoes. Also, the amount of shit Sadie has in her pack is completely unbelievable. She has nothing she needs and everything she doesn’t. IE: WHERE IS HER FOOD & WATER? As someone that has carried a pack into the backcountry, every single OUNCE matters, and this girl is bringing not one, not two, but three bottles of nail polish? She is bringing face masks and three sets of silk pjs? A swimsuit and a swimsuit cover up WITH a giant sun hat? No no no no. I could go on and on about this, but alas, you get it.
And speaking of the romance…this would never last. EVER. You seriously want me to believe that Thorn is going to leave his lifetime of mountaineering in Yosemite to move to Texas and lead excursions there for Sadie the influencer who, yes backpacked, but also hated it? Guys? Have you been to Yosemite?
2.5 stars for me.
Thank you NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2026
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.
Thank you to NetGalley, Atria Books, and Kayla Olson for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 28, 2026
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ARC provided by Atria Books.
Those who say “be prepared” never met Sadie Whitlock.
Sadie has always been praised for being the most prepared person in the room, the one who has 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 California: camping, hiking, rappelling, and kayaking. It is 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 guide: August Thorn. Thorn lives for adventure and always keeps a professional distance from the trekkers under his care but there is 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.
The Great Outdoors is a sweet and entertaining rom-com that blends adventure, self-discovery, and romance in such a fun way. The wilderness trek setting felt fresh and immersive, bringing both excitement and real stakes to the story.
I really enjoyed watching Sadie push herself outside of her comfort zone and make the best of her trekking experience. Thorn was such a cinnamon roll hero, and the chemistry between him and Sadie was so fun to read. Their banter made every interaction even more enjoyable.
The ending did feel a little too neatly wrapped up for me, but overall, The Great Outdoors is a perfect summer read. It is heartfelt, funny, and adventurous, with a lovely message about taking chances, embracing change, and realizing that sometimes the best journeys are the ones you never planned. I think I still prefer the author’s book The Lodge, but this was still a really enjoyable read overall.
Rating: 3.5/5
Those who say “be prepared” never met Sadie Whitlock.
Sadie has always been praised for being the most prepared person in the room, the one who has 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 California: camping, hiking, rappelling, and kayaking. It is 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 guide: August Thorn. Thorn lives for adventure and always keeps a professional distance from the trekkers under his care but there is 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.
The Great Outdoors is a sweet and entertaining rom-com that blends adventure, self-discovery, and romance in such a fun way. The wilderness trek setting felt fresh and immersive, bringing both excitement and real stakes to the story.
I really enjoyed watching Sadie push herself outside of her comfort zone and make the best of her trekking experience. Thorn was such a cinnamon roll hero, and the chemistry between him and Sadie was so fun to read. Their banter made every interaction even more enjoyable.
The ending did feel a little too neatly wrapped up for me, but overall, The Great Outdoors is a perfect summer read. It is heartfelt, funny, and adventurous, with a lovely message about taking chances, embracing change, and realizing that sometimes the best journeys are the ones you never planned. I think I still prefer the author’s book The Lodge, but this was still a really enjoyable read overall.
Rating: 3.5/5
July 8, 2026
The Great Outdoors by Kayla Olson, when Sadie’s boyfriend tells her she’s high maintenance she tries to prove him wrong by going on attract in the Sierra mountains she shows up with enough luggage for a ten day cruise and not a hike through mother nature she even brought her eye mask. Little did Sadie know but her treck leader would be Thorn, a guy who is well-versed when it comes to hiking and when it all comes down to it she both begrudges and lust after him an equal measure. He is absolutely God smacked when he sees that she has on sandles that she plans to wear for miles and miles of walking in uneven to rain being stubborn she refuses to take them off before it’s over however she is ditching more stuff than the Donner party on their way to Oregon or Donner pass for those who know the story. more than once thorn will have to take the “you’ll see what I’m saying“ attitude on the trip and it seems the more Sadie gets rid of the more she learns but what about the whole lusting thing after her trail boss because before he knows it Thorne is feeling the same way. I love a fish out of water story and I was so looking forward to this one and I’m so glad this is a winner in my book I have been let down so many times by books I read and I read a lot of books and this one was just a winner winner chicken dinner I laughed there were moments that made me think not to mention the swoony moments as well. this was such a fun cute read and one I highly recommend. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,
July 22, 2026
This story was sweet and charming. I really liked both characters and believed their feelings for each other. I liked that Sadie didn't have to change who she was but realize that she could do more than what she thought she could. I like that the story wasn't too predictable. There were some situations that I didn't see coming.
Overall, I really liked this story. Though this is a closed door romance, Sadie and Thorn still have some sizzling chemistry. But honestly, it would be a bit much if it was open door, because they are on a hiking trek with 8 other people.
I had a few questions about how much can actually fit in hiking back packs...
The beginning of the story did take a while for me to really enjoy. I don't think the author was confident in her writing/the reader's understanding. There were a lot of winks and nods to the reader and explaining of jokes. I don't like breaking the fourth wall and in this case it happened a bit too much. Thankfully it didn't happen that often later on in the story.
Overall, I really liked this story. Though this is a closed door romance, Sadie and Thorn still have some sizzling chemistry. But honestly, it would be a bit much if it was open door, because they are on a hiking trek with 8 other people.
I had a few questions about how much can actually fit in hiking back packs...
The beginning of the story did take a while for me to really enjoy. I don't think the author was confident in her writing/the reader's understanding. There were a lot of winks and nods to the reader and explaining of jokes. I don't like breaking the fourth wall and in this case it happened a bit too much. Thankfully it didn't happen that often later on in the story.
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