Kennedy Ryan is just an absolute master at emotional romances and this book is no exception. After Soledad's life implodes and she finds herself a single parent to her 3 daughters with no job, she is determined to lessen the impact on her daughters as much as possible. So she does what she has always done, she figures it out. While dealing with this absolutely horrendous betrayal, she also goes on a discovery of self love and figuring out who she is and what she wants, now that she's on her own. And what she finds she wants is the one person she shouldn't have.

As much as this story is a romance (and it REALLY is), it's also the story of Soledad learning to love herself, relearning that she can be independent, and knowing that she by herself is enough. It's a really powerful story that I would recommend to anyone and everyone. It's a story about community, grief, betrayal, and growth. It also feels incredibly real and authentic.

Judah is so patient with Soledad, which is exactly what she deserves after her absolute asswipe of a husband. Judah's family is also so lovely and I think the autism rep from his sons was done with a lot of care and compassion.

If you've been wanting to read this series but have decided the first book is not for you because of the trigger warnings, rest assured that I don't think you need to read the first book to read this one. There is of course character overlap, but I really don't think you'd be missing anything if you choose not to read the first book (I do also highly recommend that one, but I know it's not for everyone).

Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I stumbled upon “Before I Let Go” in the library last year and fell in love with the depth of Kennedy Ryan’s character development and deep emotional connections . This book was no exception .

I’m not one for romance stories but this was so much more . A woman’s important journey into self discovery after divorce .

Can’t wait for Hendrix’s story!

Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC !

Another 5 star book from Kennedy Ryan! Soledad’s journey to find love for herself was beautiful. I can’t wait for Hendrix’s book!

Thank-you so much to Netgalley for the ARC I've just completed this incredible book. Kennedy consistently crafts words that evoke deep emotions, and in this particular work, it inspired self-love within me. The abundance of poignant quotes, compelling characters, and valuable life lessons made it truly exceptional. The protagonist's journey was exceptionally captivating – a significant green flag. Kennedy, your talent leaves me in awe.

Really enjoyed this book. I love the girls friendship and how they have each other’s backs. Felt like I was there with them as I was reading.

This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan 🌺🧡

“I told her I am the love of my life. I have learned to love myself without judgment or condition. It’s the only way I have enough love for everyone who needs it—to love myself. No one can love me like I do. No one knows me like I know myself.”

Kennedy Ryan is the queen of slow burns and I’m going to eat them up every time!

Thank you netgalley for this advanced readers copy! After reading Before I Let Go, I was soooooo eager to read Soledad’s story based on the little bit we learned about her life and her family dynamic. This Could Be Us is such a beautiful story of strength, growth, and healing. Soledad’s life was turned completely upside down by events I never would’ve guessed took place, but you know what they say- you can’t keep a good woman down. We get to follow her journey of self love, self discovery, and what it looks like to partner with one self. I loved how Yasmen and Hendrix rallied around her to keep her encouraged throughout 🥺. So many women I know have went through what Soledad went through, so it was so inspiring to watch her in action- making a change for her and daughters. She is a literally rockstar and my fictional shero! Once my pre ordered copy of this book comes in, I will certainly be reading it again! I am absolutely in love with this novel.

Whenever Edward is in the fictional world, I hope he gets into a fight with a bear 🤭

& omg fine auntie Hendrix’s story is next!!!!!! 😍

#thiscouldbeus #beforeiletgo #skylandseries #kennedyryan #slowburnromance #romancenovels #romancelover #RomanceBooks #Bookstagram #BookTok #BlackGirlsReadToo

This Could Be Us is the second book in the Skyland series and when I saw that it was 'read now' on NetGalley- I never *ran* faster to grab it. This is the story of Soledad. When life as she knew it blows up in a cloud of betrayal and lies, she sets about taking care of her family while rediscovering herself. She just never counted on the attraction she'd find to a man who is off limits to her.

I loved Before I Let Go. While this story was very similar in a strong heroine taking care of herself while growing and healing... it felt much more on the women's fiction side. The romance between Soledad and Judah slowburns in a way that it's very hard to latch on to. Which is a shame because gosh I loved Judah. He was gone for her from the start. He was so patient and caring. And an amazing father that just made you melt for him. He had the whole nerdy but sexy thing going on. But for me, Soledad took too long rediscovering herself. That aspect dragged for me, and unfortunately it was a large part of the story. We just never got to see these two together enough to really feel that romantic connection outside lust or chemistry.

Overall, it's an easy story to get lost in. I liked it. There's some great rep and diversity in this story. This author knows how to make you feel. But for me, it unfortunately missed the romance mark-which was what I personally went in for. Will definitely continue this series though- I am really wanting a Hendrix story. I feel like there is so much under the surface with her.

3.5 Stars ⭐

* Thank you to Forever Publishing for the ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and given freely.

This is a story about loss, grief, survival, rediscovery, love, and community. However, it's mostly about relationships and their ability to shape our stories. Soledad seemingly had it all - a comfortable existence where she is able to care for her three daughters while supporting her husband. Until, greed and betrayal threatens the foundation of the life she have cultivated for herself and her kids. Despite her losses, Soledad pivots and uses her homemaking skills to support her children. Along the way she also rediscovers herself and come to term with who she is without the wife and mother labels. Of course she has help. Her community of friends, her sisters, online following, and an unlikely ally, Judah, all provide Soledad with support throughout this journey.

This is a beautifully crafted story following Soledad's relationships - existing and new. The writer takes us on an emotional journey of finding oneself and new beginnings after losing your sense of 'security' and your ability to trust. An engaging read.

Note: ARC

This book was absolutely amazing. Soledad, whose situation I was familiar with from the previous book in the series, world was rocked upside down when her husband, Edward, was caught committing a white collar crime. The person responsible for catching him, Judah, was labeled as cold and heartless. However, as Judah became so fascinated with Soledad, he showed a completely different side. He was warm, understanding, and attentive. I love how Soledad was able to build herself and her family back up with the assistanceof her loved ones. This book shows how resilient a woman can be when it comes to making sure her family has everything they need. I really wish that there would have been a harsher sentence for Edward, however I believe the damage he did towards his family, especially his daughters will be enough punishment for him. I also love how Soledad focus on herself and her family before she ventured into a relationship with Judah. Also the co-parenting relationship between Tremaine, Judah, and tremaine's new husband Kent was a beautiful situation to experience reading. The love that everyone demonstrated toward their sons was enlightening to see in this wonderful love story.

Kennedy Ryan is swiftly becoming an author that I NEED to read her backlisted titles.
I read Before I Let Go earlier this year and absolutely fell in love and This Could Be Us was no different.
The characters were written so well and I felt all of their emotions almost as if they were my own. Judah and Soledad’s relationship was so loving and wonderful to read, if a bit fast paced but still lovely all the same.

Firstly, thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Kennedy Ryan’s ability to write whole characters is what will make any book she writes an automatic read for me. These characters are flawed but worthy of all the good things. She makes it so easy to root for these perfectly imperfect people. There’s an authenticity to every character she writes. I also love that the supporting characters have their own identities. They aren’t just there to drive the story. You become invested in them, too.

“This Could Be Us” is another beautifully written story about love, loss, and all the great things that come when you have the strength to put pieces back together.

Soledad has been married to Edward for almost 20 years. Strong in her AfroLatina culture Soledad enjoys being a stay at home, and taking care of her family. Known for some of the best cooking and cleaning hacks in the neighborhood, Soledad is always being called into her daughters school to help with an event. Raising her 3 daughters is everything to Soledad. Edward has been distant for a while and it has affected their relationship, Soledad is hoping things will change. At Edwards Christmas party, as Edwards makes a beeline for his secretary Amber, Soledad sees the most beautiful Black man across the room. As they lock eyes Soledad cannot believe the feeling creeping through her body. As the evening progresses Soledad comes across the gorgeous man again and finds out he is Judah Cross the man Edwards feels is out to get him. Edward hates Judah and swears he is trying to cause him trouble at work. Suddenly everything in Soledads life falls apart in an instant. Lies, betrayal, and deceit change Soledads life forever. Devastation, shock and sadness can’t last forever though, especially with 3 daughters to take care of. With the support of her best friends Soledad will find herself and learn to love herself FIRST. Crossing paths with Judah Cross again Soledad feels the intense chemistry, but putting herself first is her main priority for now, but she can’t seem to get Judah out of her head.

I absolutely loved this book. I love me some Kennedy Ryan and was waiting for this one after Before I Let Go. When I say this one was even better than Before I Let Go, I cannot wait for the next one in the series.

Thank you @Netgalley and Forever books for this ARC.

Having received a complimentary copy of Ryan Kennedy's 'This Could Be Us' from NetGalley, I delved into the book with curiosity and emerged thoroughly impressed. Kennedy has crafted a story that is not just a narrative, but an empowering journey of self-discovery and independence.

The book centers around a protagonist whose growth and development is both relatable and inspiring. Kennedy's portrayal of a woman coming into her own, asserting her independence, and refusing to lean on others for her sense of self-worth, is both refreshing and necessary in today's literary landscape. The character's evolution is handled with a deft touch, making her journey feel authentic and deeply human.

Kennedy's writing style is engaging and fluid, making 'This Could Be Us' a pleasure to read. His ability to weave a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking is commendable. The narrative flows seamlessly, capturing the nuances of the protagonist's journey with empathy and insight.

One of the strengths of the book is its realistic portrayal of life's challenges and the resilience needed to overcome them. The protagonist's journey is not just about her triumphs, but also her struggles, which are depicted with honesty and sensitivity. Kennedy does not shy away from the complexities of life, instead, he embraces them, giving the story a depth that is both meaningful and impactful.

The themes of self-reliance and personal growth are prevalent throughout the book, making it an inspiring read for anyone on their own journey of self-discovery. Kennedy's ability to inspire and motivate through his storytelling is a testament to his skill as an author.

In conclusion, 'This Could Be Us' by Ryan Kennedy is a compelling and uplifting read. It’s a story that resonates deeply, reminding us of the power of self-reliance and the beauty of becoming who we are meant to be. For anyone looking for a book that is both a delightful read and a source of inspiration, I highly recommend this one.

One of my most anticipated releases of 2024 and it did NOT disappoint.

Kennedy Ryan can do no wrong in my eyes, but with This Could Be Us, I especially loved how she showed how much both men and women are changed when they become parents and how hard it is to start growing back into ourselves. It's rare that you see that from dad's perspective and I think Kennedy did such a phenomenal job.

It was so rewarding to watch Soledad navigate everything single thing thrown at her. She never gives us, she always stays real and true to herself, and she works SO hard. I can tell that I am getting older and that I am also a parent because there are times I wanted to shake her kids and scream at them for how they treated her. Haha.

And of course, this book is SEXY AS HELL. Soledad and Judah's chemistry sizzles right off the page and Mrs. Ryan definitely brought the spice with their story!

I LOVED this book!
I received an ARC for an honest review and man, did I love this book. This book though part of a series can be read as a stand alone. This book is a romance, that deals with the break up of a marriage, rediscovering yourself and finding love.

Soledad is married, but not happily, the marriage has fizzled out and unbeknown to her, her weasel of a husband has been cheating on her. Things quickly happen, and well the marriage soon come to an end. Thought this process, Soledad has to find strength in herself in order to rediscover herself, fend for her daughters and well, learn to trust again, and find love.

Enter the hero, Judah, divorced, father of two autistic boys. I LOVED HIM. He was so caring, nurturing and swoon worthy. Above all, so patient with Soledad, knowing that she was going through a growing process.

The story is about a woman that finds her way back into who she is while finding love in the process.

And yes, it has some sexy scenes too!
This is a beautifully moving story, it grips you from the start and I had to read it in once sitting.

Is there anything Kennedy Ryan can't do?! Take all my money and keep writing these Impossible to put down books! After two wins, She's a automatic buy for me.

this is my first kennedy ryan book -- i should definitely go back to read the first book in this.
this was nice, and i was warned ryan's books are a little on the heavier side content wise, which was honestly nice. it provided more depth to the characters and made the story mean more.

Kennedy Ryan did the thing with this one. I'm going to have to rearrange my KR boyfriend ranking because Judah Cross just kicked somebody off.
This book had me in my feelings; I laughed, giggled, cursed 🤬.
Soledad's journey of rediscovery of self, her strength, vulnerabilities all resonated with me, and I'm sure it will be to many other women when they read this.
Judah's patience, his honesty, and openness with his feelings, both with Soledad and his family, was a balm for the heart.
This story has my whole entire heart 🥰

I'm going to be honest with you all. After reading Before I Let Go, I didn't think Kennedy Ryan was going to be able to top it. The story was emotional, the characters were relatable, the romance was fire, and Josiah was everything!! is But Ryan knew exactly what her readers needed and crafted the perfect follow up with This Could Be Us!! It was so good!!

This Could Be Us is the second book in the Skyland series. This time we hear a story about Yasmen's friend, Soledad. Soledad is working through a rough patch in her marriage and family when suddenly her marriage and life come to a halting crash due to her husband's shadiness. As Soledad works to regain control and structure she must also find a way to provide for her family and also be true to herself and what she loves. As all starts to fall into place she wasn't expecting to fall for Judah, her husband's nemesis. Soledad must learn to balance her own happiness and worth and make room for Judah in her new life.

| absolutely love the message of putting yourself first and truly loving yourself before you can make room to love another. Their eventual relationship was a slow burn from the start. Judah took such care and patience in allowing Soledad the space to heal and move forward. There was such emotional maturity modeled by both and it was truly beautiful to watch unfold.

To top it off, Judah's attentive parenting made me fall for him and hard! Kennedy Ryan knows exactly how to write romance novels for all readers but particularly women in their thirties and forties! Seeing a man care for and make his children his world is just as attractive and a turn on as what he ends up doing to Soledad in the back of his old truck bed!

Kennedy Ryan is top notch romance writing at its finest. She writes for women looking for healthy, mature relationships with sensuality and familiarity that is guaranteed to make you swoon. The Skyland series are my favorite romance novels! Put them on your radar TODAY!!

OH MY GOODNESS!!!! I loved this book, like absolutely loved. Soledad’s story is so beautiful, aching, and empowering. TBH I was actually more invested in the plot than the eventual romance because it was that good. The incorporation of the representation of neurodivergent individuals was so good. Knowing this is close to Kennedy Ryan’s heart, it was written so gracefully and filled with compassion. Also as a mom I appreciated the representation of the complexity of being all things to all people and not letting “mom” be your only identity!

The 🌶️ was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 😅

It was also a love letter to our friends who don’t get enough credit for also being our soulmates and made me feel grateful to have people like Yasmen & Hendrix in my life 🥹

So damn good!