If I could give this book 10 stars, I would. I'm afraid I'll have to settle for 5 stars. Kennedy Ryan has given us another masterpiece of her writing with characters that are richly crafted, deep and full of emotion, intelligent and mature and completely captivating.

For any woman who's ever doubted herself, her abilities, her decisions, please grab this book, read it and discover what you can do when you're backed against a wall. In the middle of Soledad Barnes' perfectly planned life, everything blows up and she's forced to pivot and create a new reality for herself and her three young daughters. She needs to find herself and the person she needs to be in order to move on. Through struggles, emotional devastation, and personal pain, she slowly finds not only her way, but also a love of a lifetime.

The story was intense at times, funny, sweet, steamy, joyous and had so many life lessons to offer. I never fail to learn something about life, love, human nature, and our frailty as humans when reading a Kennedy Ryan book. There is a beautiful love story woven into this multi-layered story that will have you swooning. I LOVED this book and devoured it from start to finish. Writing this good should be celebrated! Grab this one and enjoy!

Huge thanks to Forever and Netgalley for granting access to this incredible book! I was beyond eager to dive into it.

Kennedy Ryan's work never fails to captivate me. Her ability to stir emotions while weaving a passionate romance is unparalleled. "This Could Be Us," the second installment of the Skyland series, delves into Soledad's journey of self-discovery after a life-altering event. Ryan handles this with such finesse. Her portrayal of healthy romance shines once more. Judah Cross sets an entirely new standard with his unwavering care and support for his loved ones. The palpable longing between Judah and Sol leaps off the pages.

The narrative beautifully shows Soledad's resilience amid shattered pieces of her life, especially her dedication to guiding her daughters through the difficult changes and all the while learning to love herself. Ryan's thoughtful portrayal of autism representation is admirable. Her novels consistently excel in depicting strong support systems among the characters, offering comfort similar to a warm embrace.

"This Could Be Us" is a must-read for everyone!

Soledad is one strong woman. I love that she wanted to fall in love with herself, before getting into another relationship. Judah is perfection in every sense. Being a parent to not one, but two special needs children is far from easy! (I know! I'm a parent to one.) He and his ex-wife are the perfect example of how to coparent. I loved the friendship they have. Now I can't wait for Hendrix's story!!

In a profoundly moving narrative, the author delicately unravels the intricate layers of a unique mind in "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time." As someone intimately familiar with the nuances of autism, the book struck a chord, vividly portraying the challenges and beauty of being different.

The story authentically captures the struggles and triumphs of navigating a world that often misunderstands those on the autism spectrum. The protagonist's journey becomes a mirror reflecting the complexities of a mind that perceives reality in its own extraordinary way.

The narrative doesn't shy away from the difficulties, offering a raw and honest portrayal of isolation and vulnerability. Yet, amidst the struggles, there's an undeniable warmth that emerges from the character's resilience and genuine connections formed along the way.

Humor and heartache are expertly woven together, creating a tapestry of emotions that goes beyond the confines of typical storytelling. This isn't just a book; it's an invitation to empathize, understand, and appreciate the unique perspectives that exist in the mosaic of human experience.

For those seeking profound insights into the autistic experience or simply yearning for a narrative that transcends boundaries, this book is a poignant exploration of difference, connection, and the indomitable spirit within us all.

This book shows that when something happens, you have to manage to get your life back. That was something Soledad had to go through. Luckily for her, she tried her best to do that. Even with the help of someone. This book contains a love story as well.

I want to thank the publishers at Forever and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in order to write a review.

Wow! Ryan Kennedy has done it again. I was drawn to the beautiful cover & authenticity of the autistic children's diagnosis and role in this story. Being a mom of an autistic son, there were so many relatable moments of meltdown, anxiety, and progress I am proud to feel and know I'm not the only one. Soledad's bravery and determination to be a distinguished woman, who once was dependent and had to recreate her identity for the betterment of herself and her children, is resilient. What's not to love about this story?

I'm not crying, you're crying!! Ok, maybe we both are. That was such a rollercoaster of emotion. Soledad is so strong and resilient and such a good mom and person, she shows up for her people in a million different ways. It was beautiful watching her figure out how to make her life into what she wanted for herself and her daughters. Who I loved, btw!! And then there's Judah...be still my heart. I can't even begin to count the ways I love this man. These two have so much going on in their lives, but with a little faith and a lot of hard work, they may be able to find their way to each other. Ok I'm about to start crying again! Happy tears, I promise!!

This book was so gratifying and deeply sexy. I love a story about two people in their forties falling in love, with a real depiction of the baggage that that can come with. The familial relationships were so specific and full. Just a really fun and satisfying read. Did I mention it was sexy as hell? My first Kennedy Ryan (I'm embarrassed to admit), but I will be fixing that!!! She's got the goods. Thank you to Forever - Grand Central Publishing for my advanced copy of this book!

Thank you, NetGalley and Read Forever Pub for this eARC.

This book healed something in me.

Ryan has a way of ripping readers apart and putting them back together again in one sitting. I loved reading Soledad's story and saw myself in her in many ways.

I enjoyed many things in this book, including the friendship/family dynamics, character banter, and various forms of representation. The friendship dynamic between Soledad, Yasmin, and Hendrix was genuine and refreshing. The family dynamic between Soledad and her sisters felt warm. The character banter was hilarious. This story also contained great forms of representation, including Afro-Latina and autism.

One thing I appreciated about this story was that the topics discussed were handled with significant care and were realistically depicted and illustrated. I also loved the inclusion of cultural elements. Whether it was language or recipes, these inclusions made Soledad's story feel more authentic.

Although this was a slow burn, it wasn't agonizingly slow, and the pacing was just right. Nothing felt rushed or forced, and Soledad and Judah's chemistry was perfect. I loved Judah's character, as there was something so restoring about him. His gentleness, patience, and respect for Soledad's healing process were reviving to read. Finally, Edward and Amber, I hope you get everything you deserve, which is nothing good.

This Could Be Us does an exceptional job illustrating healing and self-redemption, showing what it looks like when you take your power back unapologetically.

Soledad's ground seems pretty rocky on page one, but before the reader knows it, landmines go off and Soledad's world is rocked. While rebuilding, Soledad balances raising her three girls with growing into the strong, confident woman better than she used to be.

The story is a masterclass in evoking the quote "Strong women: may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them." Soledad's friends and sisters are there, not to pick her up, but to usher Soledad along-because they know she's strong enough to do it on her own, with just some occasional help. A village is helping to raise her three diverse daughters, and the unique relationships that Soledad has with each one adds depth to the story.

The romance angle is hot and heavy as soon as the wait is over. Its not for the tame readers, but is still written in a way to empower communication, respect, and passion.

*In full disclosure, this is a great stand alone story. Some items from "Before I Let Go" where hinted at, but I have never read it and didn't feel like I missed out on anything.*

Overall: 4 stars

I'll tell my students about: language, sex, alcohol

**Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the free ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.**

I was lucky enough to see the post about Netgalley download and OMG. What an awesome book. This book makes you want to fight, cry, laugh, self-love, and fall in love all rolled up in a peace pie! Not only can every woman find a little of themselves in Sol's story, but you find yourself rooting for everyone but Edward. I'm still mad at Edward and still want to kick his tail. But oh Kennedy, what smart writing!!! You never fail. From the beautiful "watch me" to recipes and how to continue to show others love even when you yourself is going through. This is one of the best rise from the ashes stories I have read in a minute. Sol is a true Phoenix. A must-read!!!

The expectations were high, and Ms. Ryan did not disappoint! I loved Soledad and the way she loved her family. This book was incredibly relatable in the sense of self discovery, and figuring out who you are and what you want after years of putting everyone else first. Also, learning to trust again after someone lets you down in a big way. The writing was beautiful, and the friendship between Yasmen, Soledad, and Hendrix ... *chefs kiss* I loved the representation in this book in reference to Adam and Aaron, and the family dynamic between Judah, Tremaine, Kent, and the children. Blended family goals. Judah as an individual, I love him. The romance between Soledad and Judah, I was sweating! The anticipation!! This book was beautiful, healing, and the patience and understanding this man shows Soledad, gaaah!! I have no notes.

Kennedy Ryan has a way of grabbing your attention from the very first paragraph. This Could Be Us so well written. At sometime in every woman’s life, we’ve found ourselves in Soledad’s shoes. The raw emotion captured had you feeling as if you were living it out with Soledad. To call this book fantastic would be an understatement. I had high expectations after Before I Let Go, and This Could Be Us is equally as good. Soledad lays the blueprint on the journey to self love and it definitely will live readers feeling inspired to #datethemselves. Well done Kennedy, I’m hooked for life!

“Life is always gonna be complicated, but the good stuff is worth fighting for.” I was really excited to see “This Could Be Us” on Netgalley. I’ve been waiting for Soledad’s story after meeting Kennedy Ryan at Steamy Lit Con and having my heart broken reading “Before I Let Go.” She has done it again.

When Soledad Barnes sees the life she’s known burned to the ground by her lying, cheating, scheming husband, how does she move forward? Her accounts frozen, no money to pay for groceries or school for her daughters, selling her clothes and car to pay for bills. With the help of her friends and the man who put her husband in prison, she slowly moves forward and regains her self-worth.

Judah Cross is a divorced father of 2 autistic sons who he changed his whole life for. When he meets Soledad at a company Christmas party there is an instant connection. He’s sees (and feels) something for her that he hasn’t felt in a long time, but she is married to the man he is investigating. He uncovers that her husband has been embezzling money, and helps put him in prison. This is where the story really begins.

Was their love story complicated? Yes. Was it worth it? Absolutely.

Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book.

Thank you Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

I am left speechless, if there's ever a story that has taken me on an emotional Rollercoaster so intense and raw that made me feel like my soul left my body and returned to let me know that I would never be the same girl again? Then, this is that story.

FULL REVIEW COMING CLOSER TO RELEASE DAY.

PS: F$*K EDWARD.

This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan was an outstanding story.
Anything this author writes is pure magic.
Beautiful writing and story. I was pulled into the story right away and I experienced so many different feelings while reading this one.
This story was so riveting and unique, that I'm still thinking about it.
It was realistic and relatable. I absolutely loved everything about it.

Thank You NetGalley and Forever for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

I was pleased to be able to get a preview edition of this book from NetGalley.

This Could Be Us is the second of Ryan's Skyland series, focusing on Soledad. I loved Soledad's journey from dissatisfied wife, to betrayed wife, to bitter single woman, to content single woman, to allowing love back into her life. Soledad went the gamut of feelings and all of them were represented beautifully. I loved her relationships with her sisters and with her friends.

The only small quibble I have is that the men in the book weren't as fleshed out as Josiah was in book one. They were clearly cast as "angel" and :"devil" with no extra shading, and the book suffered slightly for it. But this did allow me to focus more fully on Soledad's journey, so it's a small quibble.

Can be read as a stand-alone (I barely remembered Soledad from book 1) but of course is fuller if you've read Before I Let Go. Sad I have to wait over a year for Hendrix's book!

This book held a lot of promise for me, but it fell flat. I got really annoyed when the main character became "influencer" - everything became all about content making, posts, views. And I got really angry when she made a presentation about it for 6 graders, telling how wonderful the world of internet fame is, when we all know how dangerous internet really is, especially for children.

This Could Be Us is one of the best books I've read this year. Kennedy Ryan is a beautiful writer. Her stories are raw and real! Can't wait for more!

This book is a great read. It's mainly about finding yourself after losing yourself in a relationship. It's definitely a slow burn but I think it fits with the story. I appreciated the drama in it as well because I am not a big romance reader. They always feel flat and mushy but not this book. Ms Kennedy did her thing!!!