Kennedy Ryan’s 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘉𝘦 𝘜𝘴 is a story not only about romantic love, but also about familial, platonic, and self-love as well. In the novel, Soledad Barnes is a gorgeous, intelligent, and skillful woman who lives an outwardly perfect life and who makes parenting three young girls, running a beautiful household, and being an active community member look easy. Behind closed doors, however, her relationship with her husband Edward is distant and struggling and there are times when she feels unappreciated and underestimated by her family. But when Edward gets arrested for embezzlement charges and other upsetting news surfaces, Soledad separates from him, embarks on a new career, and shows everyone—including herself—her strengths and talents. She catches the eye of neighbor Judah Cross in particular… and he is actually the company accountant who helped put her ex-husband away…

𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘉𝘦 𝘜𝘴 is well-written and has an interesting plot, sizzling chemistry between the two lead characters, good representation of BIPOC and neurodivergent communities, and an important lesson about loving yourself before loving other people. I did feel, however, that the plot dragged at times and certain messaging and plot points got repetitive. This is definitely not a book for people who dislike slow-burn romances. But overall, this is a solid novel and I would recommend it to those who enjoy romances with depth, diverse characters, and gradual builds. 3.75 starts rounded up.

Thank you to Forever and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

4/5

First off, can we praise this cover!? I loved the first cover of the series, but this is even better! I was really excited that this was on NetGalley as a read now, since I loved book 1 so much. This swayed heavily on the women’s fiction side rather than romance being at the forefront, but the romance that was there was beautiful. For me, this was really heavy and a lot of the subjects in the story mirrored reality, which made it a difficult read for me. That being said, Soledad is one of my favorite FMCs. She was strong, really didn’t let life beat her down, and did what she needed to for herself and her family. I loved that she wanted to heal herself first before she gave into the tension between her and Judah, the MMC. The tension was top-notch between the two, and I loved Judah so much - kind, patient, and gentle - both as a partner and a parent. The autistic twins and Judah exploring his possible autistic tendencies was written realistically and with care. And I loved how Soledad and Judah took the needs of their families into their consideration of the relationship. Soledad’s friendships were a huge part of this one as well and gave me Sweet Magnolias vibes. I think Hendrix’s book will be a ton of fun and I can’t wait for it!

An absolute top read of the year for me! I saw so much of myself in Soledad and her journey to self-love and rediscovery as a woman and mother after a marriage gone so deeply wrong. And Judah?! No words to describe the perfection that was him as a husband, father, friend and lover. These two together found something in each other that they’d been missing, and turned it into a love that felt like passion and home rolled into one!

Where do I even begin with this review? Kennedy Ryan has a way of leaving me speechless at the end of her stories. I have to take several days to compose my thoughts because it is always so much more than a romance. This book had so many themes and just ultimately made me feel seen in a way very few stories have the capability of doing. You can just tell that Ms. Ryan takes care with understanding the topics and experiences she writes about.

Soledad goes on a journey of self- love and self-discovery. Who she is outside of her roles as a mother and a wife. She is such a strong character and I loved her relationships with her daughters. She set boundaries and expectations while still allowing them the space to have their own feelings and thoughts. Cause lord knows Inez and me would have had problems. Soledad through the wringer and got her self all the way together by the end.

And our lovely Judah *swoons very hard* Talk about a complicated relationship! I know even given the circumstance I would not have shown as much restraint as Soledad did. His character as a partner and co-parent to 2 children on the spectrum deserve it's own book just on that. I wish I could have gotten more of him and his children outside of his relationship with Soledad because it was just amazing.

As always, this story will stay with me and I can't wait to continue on in the friend group with Hendrix <3

This was my first Kennedy Ryan book. I didn't have any expectations, except that I've seen her name popping up as a recommended author for me to read.
I didn't read book #1. Without knowing anything from the first book, I thought this was a good stand alone.
Things I enjoyed about the book: the friend group, Soledad's character growth & relationship with her daughters, the autism representation, the mention of real music and books she read or was reading and going back in her memories thinking about her Mom etc...
I think the premise of the book was great, about finding yourself again and finding that spark in yourself that you lost in a relationship. I loved the #Datingyourself & Soledad’s journey to healing and finding herself.

What I didn't enjoy: It felt like there were a lot of redundant scenes that didn't contribute much to the plot. It read more like Women's Fiction, which was fine, but I was thinking it would be more romantic. (spice comes much later in the book)

Overall, I thought the book was great. Great writing and beautiful characters. I give it a 3.5 rounded up to a 4 Goodreads stars. Now I'd like to go back and read book #1.

I grabbed this book on NetGalley as soon as I heard it was a 'read now' via Abby Jimenez.
This was my first Kennedy Ryan book.
Thank You NetGalley, Forever Publishing, @ReadForeverPub & Kennedy Ryan for the ARC.

Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC of ‘This Could Be Us’! If I had the time to read this in one sitting, I would have – that’s how this book gripped me each time I picked it back up from where I left off. The characters are so well written and the story itself was fast paced and hard to put down. I’m always pleasantly surprised when I find a book where I feel like I really connect with the characters. Soledad and her friends are so likeable, and I found myself wishing I had a friendship like theirs throughout the book. The romance plot also kept me on my toes, as it wasn’t as predictable as I would have thought. The relationships that Soledad had not only with herself but with her romantic partner felt very mature while also lighthearted. I wasn’t sure what to expect after ‘Before I Let Go’, but I really enjoyed the second novel in the Skyland series. Four and half stars rounded up from me. I can’t wait to hear the story of Hendrix!

As someone who has always been intrigued by Kennedy Ryan's work I was beyond excited when this book came available. It was as good as I expected and I loved the story of a woman already in a rocky marriage learning that things are in fact worse than they seem. An affair is the least of her worries and having to navigate all this with kids, without much personal income, and while people apart of the organization her husband messed with wanting to make her life harder than it is is a lot to go through. The way all of this is written just works so well and really shows how as a parent you have to push through not just for your kids, but for yourself. Because you do deserve better and you shouldn't deny yourself what you deserve and what can make your life one you don't regret living.

My sole issue is that I would have loved for more time to have passed. A year or two before the man who is the catalyst to the reveal of her husband's major mess ups becomes more of love interest would have built the tension for them a little more. It also would have made her daddy's girl middle daughter's anger over him being the man who put her father in jail a little ridiculous. For me it read as very valid since only nine months had gone by and so I couldn't be bothered that she was still clinging to that and saw it as a bit valid seeing as all of that is a lot to process.

Kenny Ryan can do no wrong, it's just a fact. In her latest emotional, brilliant, sexy novel, This Could Be Us, Kennedy treats readers to a story and characters none of us will forget anytime soon. Soledad Barnes is such a fully drawn character, it's hard to believe she isn't real. And Kennedy's prose... can we talk about her way with words??? It was hard to balance my absolute need to devour every page with the desire to linger over every gorgeous sentence. Highly recommend!!!

Kennedy Ryan never disappoints. Her romances always have a great deal of depth and heart to them. I loved this one slightly less than Before I Go, simply because it felt like it veered a little bit away from romance and more toward a contemporary fiction novel. I don't necessarily view that as a bad thing. It was very much about how we need to be whole before we're ready to start a new relationship, and I think the characters were excellent. I wished for just a tad more romance between the two characters though.

I really enjoyed Before I Let Go, and I was so excited to read about Soledad’s journey. The story is told in a dual POV and takes place in Atlanta. I enjoyed learning more about both Judah and Soledad’s back stories. The characters are well developed, very real and relatable, and I loved the strong female friendships, Kennedy is such a wonderful storyteller and she does a fantastic job of discussing hard topics with care. There are themes of self-discovery, finding healing, self-love, and doing what makes you happy. This is not your typical romance book, but it worked so well and let me tell you, there are some spicy scenes. I am so thankful Kennedy shared this story that she has a personal connection to. It’s obviously she put so much emotion into this book. I can’t wait to read about Hendrix next!

Read if you like:
🌸 Diverse characters
🌸 Slow burn romance
🌸 Witty banter and humor
🌸 Strong female friendships

Where to start? I have been anticipating this book ever since I finished Before I Let Go last year, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. In fact, it exceeded all of my expectations. I honestly have nothing negative to say about it!

Let's talk about the writing - it was absolutely incredible. Kennedy Ryan's talent for storytelling shines through on every page, and I was completely captivated by her writing, I have so much favorite quotes I could highlight the whole book! characters development was simply spectacular. I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys. And the plot? It was masterfully crafted, with just the right amount of twists to keep me hooked from beginning to end.

I was so captivated by this book that I couldn't put it down. I devoured 20% of it in one day, and the next day, I read a whopping 80% of it in one sitting. That's how good it is! Soledad, the main character, is such a relatable and inspiring woman. Her story of self-discovery is beautifully portrayed, and I believe many women can find guidance in this book. Her friendship with Yasmen and Hendrix is so pure! They are the best friends ever!

And let's not forget about Judah. He is THE perfect man, and I must admit, I believe I've finally found my first book boyfriend! The chemistry between him and Soledad is electric, and their relationship warmed my heart.

I want to express my gratitude to the author for creating such an amazing story. I am awaiting the arrival of my physical special edition preorder in March. I am so lucky to have had the opportunity to read an ARC of this remarkable book.

PS: Edward is a monster.

I was so excited to snag this ARC when it was “read now” on NetGalley because I absolutely loved Before I Let Go, and as always, Kennedy killed it!

Soledad is defeated when it comes out that her husband is not the family man she thought he was. It’s up to her to uplift herself and her daughters, and that’s exactly what she does. Using social media, she gives insight to the public on how she does life. Whether it’s cleaning, cooking, self-care, or being a mom, Soledad’s style and grace charms the people of Skyland including Judah, the sexy and stable single dad who checks all the boxes aside from the fact that his work led to the exposure of her husband. But her journey to independence and success doesn’t allow room for the nerdy accountant who pops up at every turn looking damn good in his glasses.

I loved Soledad and Judah! He was so respectful toward her journey of self-discovery and such a good dad and coparent. Seeing him so stable and as a good family man was my favorite thing about him. My heart went out to Soledad, she was mom goals even though she often felt like she was falling short - she was kicking ass! Kennedy’s stories are more so much more than romance and I appreciate all the different aspects she brings into her books. I’m always learning something new!

This book was so good! I really enjoyed Before I Let Go, but Soledad's story was so beautiful from top to bottom. I really enjoyed the Autism representation, and not just for it being included, but for how Kennedy Ryan portrayed parenting and supporting Autistic Black boys. I loved how she displayed both Soledad's strength but also her vulnerability and willingness to allow herself to be loved and supported outside of romantic partnership. I HIGHLY recommend this book. It's a story about life & family, about friendship, about woman's journey of loving and saving her damn self. All the feels!

The way this broke me in two and put me back together and broke me again. The damn prologue had me in tears. Kennedy just knows what she be doing with her words. I can’t wait to get the physical and annotate.

Kennedy Ryan is quickly becoming a favorite. Her ability to make her characters so relatable is both admirable and infuriating. Never have I felt let characters shared my innermost thoughts and fears while simultaneously presenting a level of normalcy and hope for the future. Felt like I highlighted so much. I can only imagine what story she’s cultivating for Ms. Hendrick….

A beautiful story about LOVE. Familial love, friendship love, community love, romantic love, and self love. Kennedy Ryan's writing is always incredible, and she showcases her wonderful way with words once again in this story. Thank you for the arc! I enjoyed this story so much.

I finished this book in under a day. The writing is vivid and compelling, and the story is immersive and realistic.

I am a Kennedy Ryan fan, and this book is among her best. I love reading about full grown adults, and Soledad and Judah are indeed grownups with grownup problems. They handle their issues with maturity and grace, and I love this.

It's great to see a woman rebuilding her life from the ashes and rediscovering her own power. I highly recommend this story.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. Another excellent novel by Kennedy Ryan. I loved the characters so much and there were a lot of fun and important plot lines.

Thank you to Kennedy Ryan, Forever Publishing and Netgalley for an advanced e-copy of this book. My thoughts are my own.

The anticipation for this book was met with sheer delight! Soledad captured my heart from the pages of 'Before I Let Go,' and in this sequel, her resilience, strength, and unwavering maternal love shine brilliantly.
Enter Judah, a hero whose devotion to his kids struck a chord in my heart. His interactions with his sons, both navigating autism, moved me to tears. His exemplary parenting was a testament to his character.
What impressed me most was the maturity portrayed by every character. Even Judah's ex-wife was portrayed in a refreshingly positive light, cheering for the budding romance between Judah and Sol, which was a welcome departure from the typical bitter ex trope.

A standout moment was when Judah laid eyes on Soledad for the first time, captivated and unwavering in his attraction to her. His unwavering pursuit of her, refusing to settle for anything less, was endearing. His character was a blend of charm, tenderness, and an unwavering determination that swept me off my feet.
The dynamic friend group, Yasmen and Hendrix, added an extra layer of depth to the story. Their unwavering support during Sol's challenging times showcased the beauty of true friendship.

While the romance was undeniably beautiful, I found the narrative occasionally leaning more towards Women's Fiction than a purely romantic focus. The central theme revolved around Soledad's journey of self-discovery and healing post-divorce, which, though poignant, took precedence over the romance.

Nevertheless, the book's stellar writing, rich character development, and the sense of connection fostered with each character throughout the series made it an enthralling read.

Was so excited to grab this when it was read now!

Kennedy has done it again! Her words and her storytelling just makes me feel some type of way and This Could Be Us had me in a tizzzzzzy! I devoured this story. The characters here were just so good! I was completely smitten with Judah and everything about him! Soledad’s perseverance after everything and coming out on top had me over here cheering her on. I loved her and her strength. And Judah and Soledad together was just perfection. This is so much more than just a love story (even tho the love story here was GOOOOD 🫠🔥👀) it’s so much deeper than that, and I loved everything about it!

Thank you so much to Netgalley & Kennedy for the ARC!