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

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

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

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

Pages: 265 | ASIN : B0CKZK7NT8