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Skyland #2
This Could Be Us
Soledad Barnes has her life all planned out. Because, of course, she does. She plans everything. She designs everything. She fixes everything. She’s a domestic goddess who's never met a party she couldn't host or a charge she couldn't lead. The one with all the answers and the perfect vinaigrette for that summer salad. But none of her varied talents can save her when catastrophe strikes, and the life she built with the man who was supposed to be her forever, goes poof in a cloud of betrayal and disillusion.
But there is no time to pout or sulk, or even grieve the life she lost. She's too busy keeping a roof over her daughters' heads and food on the table. And in the process of saving them all, Soledad rediscovers herself. From the ashes of a life burned to the ground, something bold and new can rise.
But then an unlikely man enters the picture—the forbidden one, the one she shouldn't want but can't seem to resist. She's lost it all before and refuses to repeat her mistakes. Can she trust him? Can she trust herself?
After all she's lost . . .and found . . .can she be brave enough to make room for what could be?
But there is no time to pout or sulk, or even grieve the life she lost. She's too busy keeping a roof over her daughters' heads and food on the table. And in the process of saving them all, Soledad rediscovers herself. From the ashes of a life burned to the ground, something bold and new can rise.
But then an unlikely man enters the picture—the forbidden one, the one she shouldn't want but can't seem to resist. She's lost it all before and refuses to repeat her mistakes. Can she trust him? Can she trust herself?
After all she's lost . . .and found . . .can she be brave enough to make room for what could be?
416 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2024
About the author
Kennedy Ryan
62 books28k followersNEWSLETTER:
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KENNEDY RYAN BOOKS - https://www.facebook.com/groups/68160...
I write contemporary romance and women's fiction. I always give my characters their happily ever after, but I love to make them work for it! It's a long road to love, so sit back and enjoy the ride.
I am wife to the love of my life, mom to a special, beautiful son, and a friend to those living with autism through my charitable foundation.
bit.ly/KRList
BOOKBUB: bookbub.com/authors/kennedy-ryan
AMAZON:
http://amzn.to/2EX7pgg
FACEBOOK:
www.facebook.com/KennedyRyanAuthor/
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/kennedyryan1/
KENNEDY RYAN BOOKS - https://www.facebook.com/groups/68160...
I write contemporary romance and women's fiction. I always give my characters their happily ever after, but I love to make them work for it! It's a long road to love, so sit back and enjoy the ride.
I am wife to the love of my life, mom to a special, beautiful son, and a friend to those living with autism through my charitable foundation.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,640 reviews
March 28, 2024
more romance like this please!
which sounds weird coming from me, considering this had a women's fic tint to it. but honestly i'm just so over the cramming-every-hole smutty romance that's popular right now. i like sex. i want it in my romances.
but the RELATIONSHIP is what is most important to me. and the relationship between sol & judah was center stage here. it was beautiful, complex, and full of understanding. sol went thru a lot in this book and to see her find a partner that really understood all that she needed and never overstepped her boundaries was so delightful.
this series is fucking incredible and i know kennedy is a popular author but she deserves even more popularity. this should win romance of the year over what i'm sure will be Funny Story lol
which sounds weird coming from me, considering this had a women's fic tint to it. but honestly i'm just so over the cramming-every-hole smutty romance that's popular right now. i like sex. i want it in my romances.
but the RELATIONSHIP is what is most important to me. and the relationship between sol & judah was center stage here. it was beautiful, complex, and full of understanding. sol went thru a lot in this book and to see her find a partner that really understood all that she needed and never overstepped her boundaries was so delightful.
this series is fucking incredible and i know kennedy is a popular author but she deserves even more popularity. this should win romance of the year over what i'm sure will be Funny Story lol
March 5, 2024
♾ (HAPPY RELEASE DAY 🥳)
JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS.
this paragraph accurately reflects how this thought has consumed every parcelle of my brain from the very moment I finished this poignant chef-d'oeuvre. I pondered whether this would adequately describe the book in a review. yes, it does.
———
many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
——-
*breathe in breathe out* here we go..
JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS. JUDAH CROSS.
this paragraph accurately reflects how this thought has consumed every parcelle of my brain from the very moment I finished this poignant chef-d'oeuvre. I pondered whether this would adequately describe the book in a review. yes, it does.
”the sense that after being on your own—sometimes lonely and sometimes contentedly alone—you look down to find a dangling thread in your hands. one end of infinity, and across years and circumstances, he stands there holding the other. the ends of forever reunited and tied together.”
———
many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
——-
*breathe in breathe out* here we go..
Currently reading
May 19, 2024❥05/17/24
kennedy ryan is one of my all time favorite authors so i just know i’m going to love this🥹her writing is immaculate! let’s get rid of this slump🫡 and let’s manifest 5 stars eee🤭
kennedy ryan is one of my all time favorite authors so i just know i’m going to love this🥹her writing is immaculate! let’s get rid of this slump🫡 and let’s manifest 5 stars eee🤭
July 15, 2024
Happy pub day!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Kennedy Ryan.. you did it again. I’m completely blown away by this woman’s powerhouse of words that emit warmth and understanding with such wisdom. Other than creating connections through relatable themes which felt like such a reassuring warm hug. This book highly emphasized why I love connecting to books than just to its characters but the essence of it, the meaningful words fused together that feels thought-provoking, the message it’s sending, the autism rep and culture in this case, the various emotions pouring from it and the love felt from it all.
While part of me definitely would’ve preferred more romance — my rating is more so because this was much more than that. Similarly to Before I let go, this also reads more like women’s fiction with romance acting as a subplot of sorts as it was very present with alot of depth but everything else had its moment. This was a story about rediscovery, redefining your self worth, self love and sisterhood besides a second chance at love intertwined throughout it out all. This wasn’t exactly as angsty as the previous book but for sure still felt so and filled with so many emotions—especially humor.
Kennedys capacity to create resilient and powerful women shines through in her writing and Soledad was no exception. Sol was dealt with her own tribulations as a result of years of belittlement and shame directed towards her. Men like Edward deserve a life sentence and the scum of the earth. But I loved how she always stood her ground and forged ahead even when she didn’t know what awaited her and her girls. The aspect of influencer/content creator in this would’ve been annoying in any other book but i honestly didn’t mind it here. i guess because of how it was subtly interwoven and wasn’t immaturely unbearable given that sol is a mom of 3 and finding a job as a stay at home mom feels almost impossible. So her being able to have this to help rebuild herself feel like a win to all moms that need to make a living to support her kids. Her journey in loving herself and self reflection in the woman she was versus the one she pushed herself to be felt so realistic as so many women will/have found themselves in sol’s position. So while the title is “this could be us” i also thought ”this could be me” as her journey in realizing what she deserved felt utterly commanding and I was here for it. Sol coming to terms in allowing herself to be happy with Judah by not denying her own happiness in doing so while healing was incredible to see—they were so deserving of one another.
Judah is such an incredible father and man that I’ve had the privilege to read about in a book. The way he was with sol was entirely sweet. My man was so down bad for her lol and he never gave up on giving her space to grow and love on herself on her own while reassuring her that he’ll be there all the while. He was extremely perceptive of her and everything about her and we all love a man who pays attention. The subtle chin touches, the glaring heated stares, the patience & understanding, the sizzling tension, his words, the sentiments, the support, the slow burn and this fine ass man—consider me absolutely enamored because where can i find myself a Judah??
And the healthy co parenting in this? Phenomenal. I loved the maturity from him and his ex and in general in this book as they were all such mature adults (except for one). Judah has two twin boys with autism and is such an attentive and present father. My heart melted during those scenes with them. I wholeheartedly loved the autism rep in this as I have a sibling with autism and have never read about it in a book—therefore it was highly validating and resonated profoundly to me. so thank you Kennedy for the accurate portrayal as being on the spectrum looks so differently for everyone and your description of both brothers reminded me of my own. For those unaware, her son is on the spectrum, so again this book highlighted one of her own experiences and it goes to show the care & attention she pours into what she writes.
The found family here was exceptionally beautiful that I loved every interaction between them. The women here were so supportive and showed such immeasurable love to one another that it’s apparent how these are the type of women you want in your life and corner. So I’m glad that Soledad has yasmen and Hendrix—the true embodiment of friends turned family. Also love the inclusion of scenes we got between sol and her sisters as well. All throughout the book you begin to notice how each of them played a role in sol’s journey in self love and rediscovery. Brief mention but the nostalgia she felt with her mother and all the references mentioned truly touched me beyond measure.
Lastly, I couldn’t end this without mentioning how kennedy is one of those authors that properly does her research because Soledad is Afro-Latina and the Puerto Rican representation in this?! I’m impressed and wanted to cry lol I’ve never seen this representation in a book and every reference felt entirely familiar and brought a genuine smile to my face. Idk if this book was perfect but I do know it was beautiful and will forever hold a special place in my heart for different reasons.
Extremely thankful I was able to read soledads book early on and as expected I loved and will forever cherish it 🥹 I can’t wait for Kennedy to bless us with Hendrix’s book as her humor never failed to entertain me lol Kennedy had jokes. **I doubt she’ll see this but as this is going to be a film someday—someone please tell her to think about casting Tasha smith as Hendrix as I just know she’ll kill it**
I highlighted so much on my kindle but these are just a few quotes I loved:
“When conversing with the heart, expect it to talk back, to revisit the pains and disappointments that left the deepest dents and scratches.”
“I could tell her everything that interests her interests me because it’s a clue to how I can reach her, how I can love her the way she deserves”
“Do you have to deny yourself happiness with someone else in order to be happy with yourself?”
“When are we ever done working on ourselves? I believe wholeness is not a destination, but a lifetime process. Something that instead of waiting for, you could be living for.”
“Like always, just the touch of our hands sends a thrill through me, as if our hearts meet and beat between our palms.”
—-
Whoever has read Before I let go, NetGalley currently has the arc as *read now until tomorrow* 🙌🙌 can’t wait to start soledad’s book 🥹
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Kennedy Ryan.. you did it again. I’m completely blown away by this woman’s powerhouse of words that emit warmth and understanding with such wisdom. Other than creating connections through relatable themes which felt like such a reassuring warm hug. This book highly emphasized why I love connecting to books than just to its characters but the essence of it, the meaningful words fused together that feels thought-provoking, the message it’s sending, the autism rep and culture in this case, the various emotions pouring from it and the love felt from it all.
”focus on your girls. focus on yourself, but when you do think about this relationship, don't compare it to anything else, to anyone else. Draw a picture in your mind of what a future could look like and really believe this could be us. And whenever you're ready, I'm right here.”
While part of me definitely would’ve preferred more romance — my rating is more so because this was much more than that. Similarly to Before I let go, this also reads more like women’s fiction with romance acting as a subplot of sorts as it was very present with alot of depth but everything else had its moment. This was a story about rediscovery, redefining your self worth, self love and sisterhood besides a second chance at love intertwined throughout it out all. This wasn’t exactly as angsty as the previous book but for sure still felt so and filled with so many emotions—especially humor.
“No one is on the way to rescue you. No one is on the way to save you and your girls. At the end of the day, it's up to you. And so it is.
Kennedys capacity to create resilient and powerful women shines through in her writing and Soledad was no exception. Sol was dealt with her own tribulations as a result of years of belittlement and shame directed towards her. Men like Edward deserve a life sentence and the scum of the earth. But I loved how she always stood her ground and forged ahead even when she didn’t know what awaited her and her girls. The aspect of influencer/content creator in this would’ve been annoying in any other book but i honestly didn’t mind it here. i guess because of how it was subtly interwoven and wasn’t immaturely unbearable given that sol is a mom of 3 and finding a job as a stay at home mom feels almost impossible. So her being able to have this to help rebuild herself feel like a win to all moms that need to make a living to support her kids. Her journey in loving herself and self reflection in the woman she was versus the one she pushed herself to be felt so realistic as so many women will/have found themselves in sol’s position. So while the title is “this could be us” i also thought ”this could be me” as her journey in realizing what she deserved felt utterly commanding and I was here for it. Sol coming to terms in allowing herself to be happy with Judah by not denying her own happiness in doing so while healing was incredible to see—they were so deserving of one another.
”When I first saw her, it felt like someone hit me in the solar plexus. Kicked me in the throat. I didn't even realize I was staring until she turned away.”
Judah is such an incredible father and man that I’ve had the privilege to read about in a book. The way he was with sol was entirely sweet. My man was so down bad for her lol and he never gave up on giving her space to grow and love on herself on her own while reassuring her that he’ll be there all the while. He was extremely perceptive of her and everything about her and we all love a man who pays attention. The subtle chin touches, the glaring heated stares, the patience & understanding, the sizzling tension, his words, the sentiments, the support, the slow burn and this fine ass man—consider me absolutely enamored because where can i find myself a Judah??
“You did not only what was best for them, you did what was good for me. So many moms lose their careers until their kids are almost grown. You didn't let that happen to me."
And the healthy co parenting in this? Phenomenal. I loved the maturity from him and his ex and in general in this book as they were all such mature adults (except for one). Judah has two twin boys with autism and is such an attentive and present father. My heart melted during those scenes with them. I wholeheartedly loved the autism rep in this as I have a sibling with autism and have never read about it in a book—therefore it was highly validating and resonated profoundly to me. so thank you Kennedy for the accurate portrayal as being on the spectrum looks so differently for everyone and your description of both brothers reminded me of my own. For those unaware, her son is on the spectrum, so again this book highlighted one of her own experiences and it goes to show the care & attention she pours into what she writes.
“There aren't enough sonnets for friendship. Not enough songs for the kind of love not born of blood or body but of time and care”
The found family here was exceptionally beautiful that I loved every interaction between them. The women here were so supportive and showed such immeasurable love to one another that it’s apparent how these are the type of women you want in your life and corner. So I’m glad that Soledad has yasmen and Hendrix—the true embodiment of friends turned family. Also love the inclusion of scenes we got between sol and her sisters as well. All throughout the book you begin to notice how each of them played a role in sol’s journey in self love and rediscovery. Brief mention but the nostalgia she felt with her mother and all the references mentioned truly touched me beyond measure.
Lastly, I couldn’t end this without mentioning how kennedy is one of those authors that properly does her research because Soledad is Afro-Latina and the Puerto Rican representation in this?! I’m impressed and wanted to cry lol I’ve never seen this representation in a book and every reference felt entirely familiar and brought a genuine smile to my face. Idk if this book was perfect but I do know it was beautiful and will forever hold a special place in my heart for different reasons.
Extremely thankful I was able to read soledads book early on and as expected I loved and will forever cherish it 🥹 I can’t wait for Kennedy to bless us with Hendrix’s book as her humor never failed to entertain me lol Kennedy had jokes. **I doubt she’ll see this but as this is going to be a film someday—someone please tell her to think about casting Tasha smith as Hendrix as I just know she’ll kill it**
I highlighted so much on my kindle but these are just a few quotes I loved:
“When conversing with the heart, expect it to talk back, to revisit the pains and disappointments that left the deepest dents and scratches.”
“I could tell her everything that interests her interests me because it’s a clue to how I can reach her, how I can love her the way she deserves”
“Do you have to deny yourself happiness with someone else in order to be happy with yourself?”
“When are we ever done working on ourselves? I believe wholeness is not a destination, but a lifetime process. Something that instead of waiting for, you could be living for.”
“Like always, just the touch of our hands sends a thrill through me, as if our hearts meet and beat between our palms.”
—-
Whoever has read Before I let go, NetGalley currently has the arc as *read now until tomorrow* 🙌🙌 can’t wait to start soledad’s book 🥹
March 16, 2024
4.5⭐️ I need to read more books like this!! ❤️
In my head, contemporary romance is a genre that's like the complete opposite of fantasy haha
I don't know if I'm right on that or not, but let's assume I'm right in the context of this review
. There is contemporary romance and contemporary romance written by Kennedy Ryan 💖💖
Because her fmcs are from all walks of life and empowering while being real and experiencing real issues. For the most part, we read to live in worlds that we wish were real because they are pretty amazing but contemporary romance tells me real life is hard but can also be amazing.
It is great to see how personal this story was to Kennedy, a mother and woman taking charge of her own life and firmly at the center of her own story as well as her experience with a child on the autism spectrum. I thought this was a solid plot and beautiful story. I love that her stories always, always, always have emotional depth to them. Probably the only thing I miss was that I wanted to see how Edward would fit into the story after everything happened and that part felt a bit rushed but I'm happy about how everything worked out for Soledad. 💞💞💞
In my head, contemporary romance is a genre that's like the complete opposite of fantasy haha
Because her fmcs are from all walks of life and empowering while being real and experiencing real issues. For the most part, we read to live in worlds that we wish were real because they are pretty amazing but contemporary romance tells me real life is hard but can also be amazing.
It is great to see how personal this story was to Kennedy, a mother and woman taking charge of her own life and firmly at the center of her own story as well as her experience with a child on the autism spectrum. I thought this was a solid plot and beautiful story. I love that her stories always, always, always have emotional depth to them. Probably the only thing I miss was that I wanted to see how Edward would fit into the story after everything happened and that part felt a bit rushed but I'm happy about how everything worked out for Soledad. 💞💞💞
March 7, 2024
4 stars
I love starting the year with a winner. Kennedy Ryan is that author for me. The one who makes me feel too much. I’d read any book by her knowing I’d be fully emotionally invested. This one was no exception.
I love how freakin strong her women are. Soledad strength and how she was learning how to love and put herself first was so inspiring. Judah was just as sweet and caring as all of Kennedy’s heroes. I loved seeing him with Soledad and how he’d always put her priorities first. I loved seeing him with his kids and how he was such an amazing caring father. The book was just so beautiful and informational.
I love that Kennedy always includes important topics in her romances, but I guess in this one it kinda overshadowed the romance? Don’t get me wrong I love when she does that. It always makes me more invested and makes the story feel more emotional. It’s just that with this one it kinda started to feel more like a women fiction? And this is not exactly a bad thing. I still loved the book and was totally invested in the story. I just wanted more romantic moments between them? Also, I wanted to see more of how the thing with her daughter was resolved. Overall, This felt like a great, sensible, teaching me lessons read for the start of the year. I loved before I let go more (even when it left me emotionally drained), but this was still a good read.
Huge Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing this copy.
I love starting the year with a winner. Kennedy Ryan is that author for me. The one who makes me feel too much. I’d read any book by her knowing I’d be fully emotionally invested. This one was no exception.
I love how freakin strong her women are. Soledad strength and how she was learning how to love and put herself first was so inspiring. Judah was just as sweet and caring as all of Kennedy’s heroes. I loved seeing him with Soledad and how he’d always put her priorities first. I loved seeing him with his kids and how he was such an amazing caring father. The book was just so beautiful and informational.
I love that Kennedy always includes important topics in her romances, but I guess in this one it kinda overshadowed the romance? Don’t get me wrong I love when she does that. It always makes me more invested and makes the story feel more emotional. It’s just that with this one it kinda started to feel more like a women fiction? And this is not exactly a bad thing. I still loved the book and was totally invested in the story. I just wanted more romantic moments between them? Also, I wanted to see more of how the thing with her daughter was resolved. Overall, This felt like a great, sensible, teaching me lessons read for the start of the year. I loved before I let go more (even when it left me emotionally drained), but this was still a good read.
Huge Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing this copy.
February 26, 2024
5/5 ⭐️
- Wow!! This book was everything!! The themes of self love and learning to stand on your own were such a large part of the book which I loved!! We need more books like this about independent women learning to love life on their own terms. Such an empowering story that I absolutely devoured.
- There are so many great quotes in this book and it would be the best pick for a book club!! The plot was so unique and I loved the autism representation that you don’t see often in books. I love that their story spanned over a year and that it was dual pov because the reader really gets to see them build a friendship that turns into something more.
- I love a man that can be soft when he needs to be and take charge when he needs to do that too. Judah was perfect!! The garage scene.. whew!!
- This book felt like the romance was almost more of a subplot which I normally wouldn’t enjoy, but I LOVED the way it was written in this story. You could really see that Soledad was putting herself first! It’s so easy for us to put anything and everything above our own healing journey, but this book really focused so much on solo dating and finding who you are while falling in love. I already can’t wait to read it again!
- Wow!! This book was everything!! The themes of self love and learning to stand on your own were such a large part of the book which I loved!! We need more books like this about independent women learning to love life on their own terms. Such an empowering story that I absolutely devoured.
- There are so many great quotes in this book and it would be the best pick for a book club!! The plot was so unique and I loved the autism representation that you don’t see often in books. I love that their story spanned over a year and that it was dual pov because the reader really gets to see them build a friendship that turns into something more.
- I love a man that can be soft when he needs to be and take charge when he needs to do that too. Judah was perfect!! The garage scene.. whew!!
- This book felt like the romance was almost more of a subplot which I normally wouldn’t enjoy, but I LOVED the way it was written in this story. You could really see that Soledad was putting herself first! It’s so easy for us to put anything and everything above our own healing journey, but this book really focused so much on solo dating and finding who you are while falling in love. I already can’t wait to read it again!
February 11, 2024
2.75/5 stars
Thank you so much for the ARC!!! <3
(I always do long reviews for ARCs, so here we go :))
Aww man i really wanted to like this 😭. So far most of the Kennedy Ryan books I have read I have loved, so I was really shocked when i got to the end of this and kinda sat there like :/. The beginning started off so strong too, and I was really looking forward to reading about an older couple (also the plot twist with Edward had my mouth dropping open because it was so left field and I was EATING it upppp) I also really liked Before I let go, so the hopes with this one were HIGH.
I also lovedddd the autism representation, as that is super rare in books and I feel like Kennedy really showcased how to do research on something and showcased it well in her book!
However.....
For me, Soledad and Judah had zero chemistry. Like completely nonexistent. I'm not sure if its because Soledad was pushing this whole self love journey so hard, (which is perfectly fine, but the romance plot line to me felt secondary and came up short) or there was just too much about her being an influencer and other random plot points, but I just could not dive into the romance like at all. I also really disliked Soledad (I'm sorry 😭) but to me her 'self love' quickly turned...selfish (I know this is a hot take but it was her actions toward Judah for me)– and the way she almost just like...played in Judahs face??? Hello?? Why would you lead him on if you wanna dive into your 'self love' journey only to turn around and be like "You don't want me no more??" THE ICKKKKKKK IMMEDIATELY. The spice also made me cringe im not going to lie.
Like this book very much read like this:
1. We learn who Soledad is and about her marriage
2. We learn what happens with her and her ex-husband + how it affects her daughters
2.5. Random plot points about her mom + Bell Hooks that leads no where
3. Her influencer career for random spurts and how she wants to focus on herself
4. Oh yeah and poor Judah is just existing and trying to love her?? 😭
Also we get like...nothing about Judah imo. Or maybe not enough? I just felt like i had no clue who this man was, and his entire personality was being in an FBI accountant with glasses he only used to read. We get like a few ins to him and Tremaine and that was VERYYYY refreshing to read about and how well they got along which i loved..but that was basically it?
Like I really tried yall, because in a way i understood where Soledad was coming from, and that they are a bit in the older range (40s) so they don't really have time to be take 10 years on a self love journey. Self love isn't always the basic self care things we think it is, and it looks different as more things enter your life like kids, marriages, friendships, etc.– So i can understand and I get that Soledad was really trying to stay a float and find herself, but to me thats not an excuse to play in others feelings 😭 . Tbh it gave very much fake influencer energy, where they preach that they are doing this that and the third (#datingmyself in this book) ...only to be basically lying LMAOOOO (aka shes in Judahs face??). I gotta keep it a stack– I reallllllly disliked the influencer plot line, it just all seemed very random and coincidental. She was a good cook??? But an influencer??? Got 2 million followers? But also liked cleaning??? But also hosted events??? It was all just a jumbled random mess to me.
All in all, I really liked the representation, the plot twist in the beginning, and I LOVE how Kennedy Ryan writes, but this just wasn't the story for me. 💔
Thank you so much for the ARC!!! <3
(I always do long reviews for ARCs, so here we go :))
Aww man i really wanted to like this 😭. So far most of the Kennedy Ryan books I have read I have loved, so I was really shocked when i got to the end of this and kinda sat there like :/. The beginning started off so strong too, and I was really looking forward to reading about an older couple (also the plot twist with Edward had my mouth dropping open because it was so left field and I was EATING it upppp) I also really liked Before I let go, so the hopes with this one were HIGH.
I also lovedddd the autism representation, as that is super rare in books and I feel like Kennedy really showcased how to do research on something and showcased it well in her book!
However.....
For me, Soledad and Judah had zero chemistry. Like completely nonexistent. I'm not sure if its because Soledad was pushing this whole self love journey so hard, (which is perfectly fine, but the romance plot line to me felt secondary and came up short) or there was just too much about her being an influencer and other random plot points, but I just could not dive into the romance like at all. I also really disliked Soledad (I'm sorry 😭) but to me her 'self love' quickly turned...selfish (I know this is a hot take but it was her actions toward Judah for me)– and the way she almost just like...played in Judahs face??? Hello?? Why would you lead him on if you wanna dive into your 'self love' journey only to turn around and be like "You don't want me no more??" THE ICKKKKKKK IMMEDIATELY. The spice also made me cringe im not going to lie.
Like this book very much read like this:
1. We learn who Soledad is and about her marriage
2. We learn what happens with her and her ex-husband + how it affects her daughters
2.5. Random plot points about her mom + Bell Hooks that leads no where
3. Her influencer career for random spurts and how she wants to focus on herself
4. Oh yeah and poor Judah is just existing and trying to love her?? 😭
Also we get like...nothing about Judah imo. Or maybe not enough? I just felt like i had no clue who this man was, and his entire personality was being in an FBI accountant with glasses he only used to read. We get like a few ins to him and Tremaine and that was VERYYYY refreshing to read about and how well they got along which i loved..but that was basically it?
Like I really tried yall, because in a way i understood where Soledad was coming from, and that they are a bit in the older range (40s) so they don't really have time to be take 10 years on a self love journey. Self love isn't always the basic self care things we think it is, and it looks different as more things enter your life like kids, marriages, friendships, etc.– So i can understand and I get that Soledad was really trying to stay a float and find herself, but to me thats not an excuse to play in others feelings 😭 . Tbh it gave very much fake influencer energy, where they preach that they are doing this that and the third (#datingmyself in this book) ...only to be basically lying LMAOOOO (aka shes in Judahs face??). I gotta keep it a stack– I reallllllly disliked the influencer plot line, it just all seemed very random and coincidental. She was a good cook??? But an influencer??? Got 2 million followers? But also liked cleaning??? But also hosted events??? It was all just a jumbled random mess to me.
All in all, I really liked the representation, the plot twist in the beginning, and I LOVE how Kennedy Ryan writes, but this just wasn't the story for me. 💔
March 15, 2024
4.5 stars★
“When are we ever done working on ourselves? I believe wholeness is not a destination, but a lifetime process. Something that instead of waiting for, you could be living for.”
So, in "This Could Be Us," we meet Soledad, a mother of three daughters. Her life takes a wild turn when her husband Edward gets caught up in some serious trouble. But no worries, I won't spoil the details for you! Let's just say it's a crazy ride of emotions for Soledad as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Soledad's journey in the book was truly awe-inspiring! It's absolutely incredible how she managed to piece her life back together and take care of her children after her family fell apart. I really look up to her for her strength and determination in finding self-love, navigating motherhood, and eventually finding love once again. It's so heartwarming to see how she always put her children first while rebuilding her own life.
Kennedy Ryan's talent for capturing the authenticity of life. It's truly impressive how she explores topics like therapy, blended families, parenting struggles, and loss in her book. She doesn't shy away from the complexities of real-life experiences. And the way she weaves romance into the story, with all its drama, heartbreak, and healing, is absolutely fantastic.
Oh, let's dive into Judah, shall we? 😮💨😮💨 It's absolutely wonderful how he's such an incredible father to his teenage twin sons with autism. Witnessing how he and his ex-wife navigate co-parenting children with disabilities was incredibly touching. I really admire the author's sensitive approach to such a complex topic. And props to Judah for knowing what he wants and not being afraid to express it
While the romance in this was indeed beautiful, there were moments where it felt like it took a backseat to the other aspects of the story. It leaned more towards Women's Fiction, which is totally cool, but I was hoping for a stronger romantic focus.
But seriously, this book was absolutely amazing ! The writing was on point, and the characters were so beautifully crafted. I legit feel like I'm besties with all of them in this series!
I'm already itching with anticipation for Hendrix’s book! It's going to be absolutely amazing! 🙌
────────
pre-review:
the dedication 🥺
“When are we ever done working on ourselves? I believe wholeness is not a destination, but a lifetime process. Something that instead of waiting for, you could be living for.”
So, in "This Could Be Us," we meet Soledad, a mother of three daughters. Her life takes a wild turn when her husband Edward gets caught up in some serious trouble. But no worries, I won't spoil the details for you! Let's just say it's a crazy ride of emotions for Soledad as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Soledad's journey in the book was truly awe-inspiring! It's absolutely incredible how she managed to piece her life back together and take care of her children after her family fell apart. I really look up to her for her strength and determination in finding self-love, navigating motherhood, and eventually finding love once again. It's so heartwarming to see how she always put her children first while rebuilding her own life.
Kennedy Ryan's talent for capturing the authenticity of life. It's truly impressive how she explores topics like therapy, blended families, parenting struggles, and loss in her book. She doesn't shy away from the complexities of real-life experiences. And the way she weaves romance into the story, with all its drama, heartbreak, and healing, is absolutely fantastic.
Oh, let's dive into Judah, shall we? 😮💨😮💨 It's absolutely wonderful how he's such an incredible father to his teenage twin sons with autism. Witnessing how he and his ex-wife navigate co-parenting children with disabilities was incredibly touching. I really admire the author's sensitive approach to such a complex topic. And props to Judah for knowing what he wants and not being afraid to express it
While the romance in this was indeed beautiful, there were moments where it felt like it took a backseat to the other aspects of the story. It leaned more towards Women's Fiction, which is totally cool, but I was hoping for a stronger romantic focus.
But seriously, this book was absolutely amazing ! The writing was on point, and the characters were so beautifully crafted. I legit feel like I'm besties with all of them in this series!
I'm already itching with anticipation for Hendrix’s book! It's going to be absolutely amazing! 🙌
────────
pre-review:
To those of us who never quite fit into the spaces they made for us. May we find our people. May we make our way. May we find our home.
the dedication 🥺
March 5, 2024
5 stars
Emotional, poignant, and beautifully written... Kennedy Ryan never misses. This Could Be Us is such a special read and Soledad and Judah are such an amazing couple.
Soledad's life isn't going the way she imagined. She's picking up the pieces of her life and she's doing it on her own, with her daughters. She never thought her marriage would end the way it did and she would be the sole provider for her family, but she's doing it.
Judah has two sons and is a great dad. He's been through an amicable divorce and has been single for some time. He and Soledad seem perfect for one another. There's only one problem... Judah is the reason Soledad is in the situation she's in. Actually, it's her scumbag ex, but Judah's work and revelations got them to this point.
This one had so many feels. The family dynamics, the friendship and sisterhood, the parenteral moments. All of it was so wonderful. I was so proud of Soledad and all she had been through and honestly I couldn't have loved Judah Cross more. This will be a top read for me and I highly recommend picking it up!
Emotional, poignant, and beautifully written... Kennedy Ryan never misses. This Could Be Us is such a special read and Soledad and Judah are such an amazing couple.
Soledad's life isn't going the way she imagined. She's picking up the pieces of her life and she's doing it on her own, with her daughters. She never thought her marriage would end the way it did and she would be the sole provider for her family, but she's doing it.
Judah has two sons and is a great dad. He's been through an amicable divorce and has been single for some time. He and Soledad seem perfect for one another. There's only one problem... Judah is the reason Soledad is in the situation she's in. Actually, it's her scumbag ex, but Judah's work and revelations got them to this point.
This one had so many feels. The family dynamics, the friendship and sisterhood, the parenteral moments. All of it was so wonderful. I was so proud of Soledad and all she had been through and honestly I couldn't have loved Judah Cross more. This will be a top read for me and I highly recommend picking it up!
November 21, 2023
4.5/5 ⭐️ I was so happy when I found out that this ARC was available on NetGalley. I started reading it right away!! Lol (Thank you Sabrina for letting me know ☺️❤️)
I was so excited for this book and it did not disappoint! Soledad has had my heart since I first met her in Before I Let Go. She is hardworking, strong, caring, and such an amazing mother.
I also fell in love with the hero, Judah. His relationship with his kids was everything to me. Some of the moments with him and his sons had me with tears in my eyes 🥺. His sons both have autism and I just love how amazing he was with them.
I also really love how mature everyone in this book was. Even Judah’s ex was likable lol. She wasn’t the cliche bitter ex wife. She was actually rooting for Judah and Sol ❤️
One of my favorite scenes in this book is when Judah sees Soledad for the first time. He did a double take and wouldn’t stop staring at her 🥹. Ever since that moment, he wasn’t with anyone else. He only wanted her and I LOVE that. A man who knows what he wants and doesn’t settle for a replacement of the woman he craves 🙌🏻❤️. He was lowkey obsessed with her 🤭. He was hot, sweet, caring, and swoony!
I also adore the friend group!!!! It was nice being back with Yasmen and Hendrix again. They are the best friends that anyone could ever ask for. I loved how they both were there for Sol during one of the hardest times of her life. It was truly beautiful.
The romance in this book was really beautiful and I loved it but I feel like it wasn’t the main focus at times. This read more like Women’s Fiction which is fine but I think I was just expecting something more romantic.
It mainly focused on Soledad’s journey to healing and finding herself after her divorce.
I will say that for me personally, this book was not as emotional as Before I Let Go. I cried more reading that one than I did with this one. BILG was definitely more angsty and the romance in that one appealed to me more.
Nonetheless, this book was still amazing!!!! Great writing and beautiful characters. I feel so connected to all of the characters in this series!!
I already can’t wait for Hendrix to get her own book!! 😭❤️
I was so excited for this book and it did not disappoint! Soledad has had my heart since I first met her in Before I Let Go. She is hardworking, strong, caring, and such an amazing mother.
I also fell in love with the hero, Judah. His relationship with his kids was everything to me. Some of the moments with him and his sons had me with tears in my eyes 🥺. His sons both have autism and I just love how amazing he was with them.
I also really love how mature everyone in this book was. Even Judah’s ex was likable lol. She wasn’t the cliche bitter ex wife. She was actually rooting for Judah and Sol ❤️
One of my favorite scenes in this book is when Judah sees Soledad for the first time. He did a double take and wouldn’t stop staring at her 🥹. Ever since that moment, he wasn’t with anyone else. He only wanted her and I LOVE that. A man who knows what he wants and doesn’t settle for a replacement of the woman he craves 🙌🏻❤️. He was lowkey obsessed with her 🤭. He was hot, sweet, caring, and swoony!
I also adore the friend group!!!! It was nice being back with Yasmen and Hendrix again. They are the best friends that anyone could ever ask for. I loved how they both were there for Sol during one of the hardest times of her life. It was truly beautiful.
The romance in this book was really beautiful and I loved it but I feel like it wasn’t the main focus at times. This read more like Women’s Fiction which is fine but I think I was just expecting something more romantic.
It mainly focused on Soledad’s journey to healing and finding herself after her divorce.
I will say that for me personally, this book was not as emotional as Before I Let Go. I cried more reading that one than I did with this one. BILG was definitely more angsty and the romance in that one appealed to me more.
Nonetheless, this book was still amazing!!!! Great writing and beautiful characters. I feel so connected to all of the characters in this series!!
I already can’t wait for Hendrix to get her own book!! 😭❤️
January 20, 2024
4.5/5 stars
this book was better than the first book in my opinion. first of all the book started off messy as hell which i loved, i had so much fun in the beginning. i just really enjoyed the plot. these books read more like women fiction but once i realized that i was able to really enjoy the book. i also thought the chemistry in this book was a bit better, it was a lot less sexual and more focused on soledad finding herself which i really appreciated.
this book was better than the first book in my opinion. first of all the book started off messy as hell which i loved, i had so much fun in the beginning. i just really enjoyed the plot. these books read more like women fiction but once i realized that i was able to really enjoy the book. i also thought the chemistry in this book was a bit better, it was a lot less sexual and more focused on soledad finding herself which i really appreciated.
April 25, 2024
4 stars :,) it was beautiful and just *chefs kiss*
March 5, 2024
Kennedy’s writing is like being wrapped in a warm blanket on a cold, snowy day. This Could Be Us was moving, romantic, and hilarious. I swooned over the love story between Judah and Sol, but what I loved even more was the love story of SOL — on her own. I loved the motherhood experience, the friends who were more like family, the self-discovery after divorce… it was such an incredible ride. An easy five stars and a book that will stay with me long after the last page.
November 27, 2023
I love me some Kennedy Ryan but this scraped a 3⭐️ from me. It paled in comparison to its predecessor.
Thank-you so much to Netgalley for the ARC. I have a lot to say about this.
The start was so promising, the first 30% gripping, the drama was popping OFF, I couldn’t put my kindle down, you had to pry the god damn thing out of my hands.
I applaud Kennedy Ryan on her ability and dedication to write about the non-conventional, this book is well researched and I loved that about it.
But from 40% onwards boredom slowly trickles in, and I skim read the last 30% 🙃
The drama well and truly backdoor shuffled 💀 along with the climax because there wasn’t one. if you’d have told me this at the start I’d have laughed at you. I hate to say it but Part 1 and part 2 feel like completely different books 😩
The conflict between 40% and 60%, the main thing keeping Soledad and Judah apart is her decision to ‘self-partner’. She doesn’t want to date following her divorce, it’s too soon, she wants to stand on her own two feet, readjust to this new life she’s building for herself. Firstly, her divorce was 9 MONTHS AGO at the beginning of part 2 🙃 so therefore secondly, it’s not a good enough reason for them to not be together. Especially given by her own admittance, Soledad had clocked out of her marriage a long time ago but stayed for her daughters and fear of change.
The situation with Edward was RIGHT THERE, her daughters feelings about Judah was RIGHT THERE, that should have been the main source of conflict but it wasn’t, it was cast aside to make way for the theme around loving yourself as a woman, standing on your own two feet, finding your passion and ambition without a man at your side. But it made for a boring read 🫤
Soledad should have been fighting her feelings toward Judah because of what happened with her husband, Judahs involvement with it and what it could do to her family, not because she’s listening to Pussycat Dolls, I Don’t Need a Man all day long.
There were so many redundant scenes that contributed little to the plot. If Soledad wasn’t FaceTiming her sisters, she was FaceTiming her friends. Or Judah was FaceTiming his mum 😴
I also felt like there was zero development to their relationship. They meet once, 9 months on they meet again. They don’t date, just have two fleeting encounters, have sex twice and then exchange I love you’s 🙃🙃🙃 they’d known each other for a while but they don’t KNOW each other. How’s he saying he loves her 😂��😂 behave.
And Judah was beige for me. Apart from being physically attracted to him, I don’t get it 🙃 he wasn’t brimming with personality, in fact his personality was as apparent as the climax. Because where was that? There wasn’t one!!
The most interesting character was Edward, gotta say it 🤣🤣🤣 and Inez!!!
Thank-you so much to Netgalley for the ARC. I have a lot to say about this.
The start was so promising, the first 30% gripping, the drama was popping OFF, I couldn’t put my kindle down, you had to pry the god damn thing out of my hands.
I applaud Kennedy Ryan on her ability and dedication to write about the non-conventional, this book is well researched and I loved that about it.
But from 40% onwards boredom slowly trickles in, and I skim read the last 30% 🙃
The drama well and truly backdoor shuffled 💀 along with the climax because there wasn’t one. if you’d have told me this at the start I’d have laughed at you. I hate to say it but Part 1 and part 2 feel like completely different books 😩
The conflict between 40% and 60%, the main thing keeping Soledad and Judah apart is her decision to ‘self-partner’. She doesn’t want to date following her divorce, it’s too soon, she wants to stand on her own two feet, readjust to this new life she’s building for herself. Firstly, her divorce was 9 MONTHS AGO at the beginning of part 2 🙃 so therefore secondly, it’s not a good enough reason for them to not be together. Especially given by her own admittance, Soledad had clocked out of her marriage a long time ago but stayed for her daughters and fear of change.
The situation with Edward was RIGHT THERE, her daughters feelings about Judah was RIGHT THERE, that should have been the main source of conflict but it wasn’t, it was cast aside to make way for the theme around loving yourself as a woman, standing on your own two feet, finding your passion and ambition without a man at your side. But it made for a boring read 🫤
Soledad should have been fighting her feelings toward Judah because of what happened with her husband, Judahs involvement with it and what it could do to her family, not because she’s listening to Pussycat Dolls, I Don’t Need a Man all day long.
There were so many redundant scenes that contributed little to the plot. If Soledad wasn’t FaceTiming her sisters, she was FaceTiming her friends. Or Judah was FaceTiming his mum 😴
I also felt like there was zero development to their relationship. They meet once, 9 months on they meet again. They don’t date, just have two fleeting encounters, have sex twice and then exchange I love you’s 🙃🙃🙃 they’d known each other for a while but they don’t KNOW each other. How’s he saying he loves her 😂��😂 behave.
And Judah was beige for me. Apart from being physically attracted to him, I don’t get it 🙃 he wasn’t brimming with personality, in fact his personality was as apparent as the climax. Because where was that? There wasn’t one!!
The most interesting character was Edward, gotta say it 🤣🤣🤣 and Inez!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2024
Kennedy Ryan is my favorite author. Her ability to get you so deeply invested in her characters so quickly is beyond compare. Her writing is so skilled and deft that every emotion the characters are going through you also experience as the reader.
From the first page to the last, this book had me hooked. I was so compelled to finish it to find out what was happening to Soledad that I never wanted to put it down.
But... I do feel the romance in here is weak when I compare it to past Kennedy books. This feels like women's fiction, and I don't mean that in a negative way, as I do enjoy women's fiction. But I was expecting a romance. Which kind of breaks my heart because no one on the planet, past or present, can write romance like this woman.
This book is overwhelmingly about Soledad's journey, and it is a beautiful and compelling story, no doubt about it. But if you are expecting epic romance, adjust your expectations for this one.
From the first page to the last, this book had me hooked. I was so compelled to finish it to find out what was happening to Soledad that I never wanted to put it down.
But... I do feel the romance in here is weak when I compare it to past Kennedy books. This feels like women's fiction, and I don't mean that in a negative way, as I do enjoy women's fiction. But I was expecting a romance. Which kind of breaks my heart because no one on the planet, past or present, can write romance like this woman.
This book is overwhelmingly about Soledad's journey, and it is a beautiful and compelling story, no doubt about it. But if you are expecting epic romance, adjust your expectations for this one.
January 24, 2024
4.75⭐️
Absolutely anything Kennedy Ryan writes I will be immediately sat for because I know every single time she is going to deliver an emotional love story like no other. This could be us was no exception to that! Starting right off the bat the plot + story had me hooked, and the characters had me so invested!! You have Soledad who’s life is what feels like to be on the right track when all of a sudden her world falls apart and that track is gone, you see so much of her resiliency watching her come into her own and I admired her immensely! Then there’s Judah who is an adoring father and a man who loves hard and isn’t afraid to express how he feels and watching him be there for Soledad had me in my feels. As someone who works as an EA The autism representation in this was everything I needed it to be and it was so clear to me that Kennedy took such care and time making sure it was done right.
Anything by Kennedy I forever will recommend!!!
Absolutely anything Kennedy Ryan writes I will be immediately sat for because I know every single time she is going to deliver an emotional love story like no other. This could be us was no exception to that! Starting right off the bat the plot + story had me hooked, and the characters had me so invested!! You have Soledad who’s life is what feels like to be on the right track when all of a sudden her world falls apart and that track is gone, you see so much of her resiliency watching her come into her own and I admired her immensely! Then there’s Judah who is an adoring father and a man who loves hard and isn’t afraid to express how he feels and watching him be there for Soledad had me in my feels. As someone who works as an EA The autism representation in this was everything I needed it to be and it was so clear to me that Kennedy took such care and time making sure it was done right.
Anything by Kennedy I forever will recommend!!!
November 27, 2023
This was even more beautiful than book 1. Soledad was the ultimate FMC, and was the epitome of a strong woman. I loved her journey and self-exploration.
I also really love the autism rep and how well the author blended ethnicities/cultures into her characters. This was a beautiful story and I will absolutely read anything Kennedy writes.
6 stars if I could.
I also really love the autism rep and how well the author blended ethnicities/cultures into her characters. This was a beautiful story and I will absolutely read anything Kennedy writes.
6 stars if I could.
March 5, 2024
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.
There are so many layers to this story, and you could tell Kennedy wrote from a personal place when it came to this story. It was more than just a romance, it was an ode to unconditional love of the familial and romantic nature.
As usual, the author’s writing style was thought provoking and pulled me into feeling all the things. Soledad and Judah’s love jumped off the page, and I won’t forget their journey!
There are so many layers to this story, and you could tell Kennedy wrote from a personal place when it came to this story. It was more than just a romance, it was an ode to unconditional love of the familial and romantic nature.
As usual, the author’s writing style was thought provoking and pulled me into feeling all the things. Soledad and Judah’s love jumped off the page, and I won’t forget their journey!
March 8, 2024
Still collecting my thoughts but what an amazing journey this book was! My favorite in this series easily!
March 8, 2024
Before I let Go Was my favorite romance published in 2022, it was also the first book I read by Kennedy Ryan. To say I was impressed with her it would be an understatement, she wrote everything I was missing in the genre: a story about about real life, family, healing, forgiveness and second chances. A story of adults that think about their life, the decisions they make, and the consequences that those decisions have for them and others.
In summary, I became a fan of Kennedy Ryan, and when I saw This Could be Us was being published, I couldn't pass on the opportunity to read it. Particularly, being Soledad's story, a character that I already admired from the first book.
What a wonderful story this was! It's again very raw, feels very real, and it's filled with important messages we tend to forget: how we can always start again, how we should value ourselves and be confident, and most importantly, how we need to learn and be comfortable alone, finding our own balance, prior to sharing a life with others.
I loved both characters, admired their strength and how they valued and prioritized their families. I'm also more than half in love with Judah!
I would like to thank Little, Brown Book Group UK, Piatkus and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review
In summary, I became a fan of Kennedy Ryan, and when I saw This Could be Us was being published, I couldn't pass on the opportunity to read it. Particularly, being Soledad's story, a character that I already admired from the first book.
What a wonderful story this was! It's again very raw, feels very real, and it's filled with important messages we tend to forget: how we can always start again, how we should value ourselves and be confident, and most importantly, how we need to learn and be comfortable alone, finding our own balance, prior to sharing a life with others.
I loved both characters, admired their strength and how they valued and prioritized their families. I'm also more than half in love with Judah!
I would like to thank Little, Brown Book Group UK, Piatkus and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review
April 13, 2024
4.5 stars
i devoured this book in a day. it was incredible. powerful. poignant. breathtakingly beautiful. i love soledad and judah with everything in me. the perfect romance novel doesn’t exis– oh wait it does.
i devoured this book in a day. it was incredible. powerful. poignant. breathtakingly beautiful. i love soledad and judah with everything in me. the perfect romance novel doesn’t exis– oh wait it does.
January 30, 2024
4.5
Judah is the MF blueprint, that’s all.
Thank you.
Judah is the MF blueprint, that’s all.
Thank you.
March 6, 2024
Can’t believe this is getting an even lower rating than BEFORE I LET GO (only half a star but still). I think maybe.. I think maybe I might have to uncouple with this author because the love I have for the Grip series and LONG SHOT has just never been found again. No matter how much I tried to manifest it into being.
Having said that, there's always one thing that Ryan does really well in each of her books. And in this one it's the autism rep. I can't speak to it from personal standpoint but everything she touched on, combined with the author's note and her own experiences, just felt so.. real. Genuine. Beautiful. And, IYKYK, the scene in the game store made me cry.
But everything else? I felt zero chemistry from this romance that was painfully insta and forced from the word go. I was eyerolling over the stupidity of Soledad's occasionally over the top villain of an ex. And I was bored by all the influencer content which took up way too much space in this story. Which was already crammed full of therapy TED talks, dialogue around grief and loss, finding one's bliss through self-love, and more; plus, like, you know, the romance. The fact that we also rehash a lot of the same information, in the same ways, over and over also didn't help matters.
I've said it before and I'll be saying it forever, I guess : contemporary romances are doing too many things these days. It's overwhelming and distracting and unsatisfying.
So, yes, this might be the end of the line -- as much as I wish it weren't. But as always.. your mileage may vary and if you loved what came before in this series, you might very well feel the same about this one.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
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This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
Having said that, there's always one thing that Ryan does really well in each of her books. And in this one it's the autism rep. I can't speak to it from personal standpoint but everything she touched on, combined with the author's note and her own experiences, just felt so.. real. Genuine. Beautiful. And, IYKYK, the scene in the game store made me cry.
But everything else? I felt zero chemistry from this romance that was painfully insta and forced from the word go. I was eyerolling over the stupidity of Soledad's occasionally over the top villain of an ex. And I was bored by all the influencer content which took up way too much space in this story. Which was already crammed full of therapy TED talks, dialogue around grief and loss, finding one's bliss through self-love, and more; plus, like, you know, the romance. The fact that we also rehash a lot of the same information, in the same ways, over and over also didn't help matters.
I've said it before and I'll be saying it forever, I guess : contemporary romances are doing too many things these days. It's overwhelming and distracting and unsatisfying.
So, yes, this might be the end of the line -- as much as I wish it weren't. But as always.. your mileage may vary and if you loved what came before in this series, you might very well feel the same about this one.
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
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This review can also be found at A Take From Two Cities.
March 7, 2024
HOW THE FUCK DID IT ACTUALLY GET BETTER THE SECOND TIME AROUND WHAT?/&;)/9/)/& ANYWAYS GIVE ME A SEC TO PROCESS THIS AMAZING FUCKING BOOK AND THEN ILL WRITE A SUPER LONG REVIEW FOR YOU GUYS🙏🙏Mwah!!!
3/5/24: HAPPIEST OF PUB DAYS TO THIS AMAZING MASTERPIECE!!?//):9);&.)9:!:’s
full review coming later today🤭
infinity stars ♾️
full rtc closer to pub date!! 🫶🫶
Kennedy Ryan, the woman that you fucking are.
3/5/24: HAPPIEST OF PUB DAYS TO THIS AMAZING MASTERPIECE!!?//):9);&.)9:!:’s
full review coming later today🤭
infinity stars ♾️
full rtc closer to pub date!! 🫶🫶
Kennedy Ryan, the woman that you fucking are.
March 27, 2024
This is a story of love in all its forms, but above all, self love. We follow Soledad as she works to nourish and grow her own love, trust, and acceptance of herself, and it is BEAUTIFUL. All of Kennedy’s books are remarkable, but this one?? This one is special. Seeing a woman in her 40’s fully accept and love herself, cultivate and lean on the essential female friendships in her life, raise her daughters to be strong women, and find her soulmate in Judah Cross, made this one of the most empowering books I’ve ever read.
You’ll finish this book with a renewed sense of hope, strength, and appreciation for yourself.
You’ll finish this book with a renewed sense of hope, strength, and appreciation for yourself.
November 18, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
This has Puerto Rico representation which I loved but it was hard to connect with the story when you're cringing the entire time 🫠 I felt like I was a reading a dark romance and that was completely different from the vibes that I get from the first book
However, the premise of the book is good. Is about finding yourself again, that spark that you lost in a relationship / marriage when that person didn't value you. It's about moving on and being the best version of yourself and I am glad Soledad find that part of herself again.
This has Puerto Rico representation which I loved but it was hard to connect with the story when you're cringing the entire time 🫠 I felt like I was a reading a dark romance and that was completely different from the vibes that I get from the first book
However, the premise of the book is good. Is about finding yourself again, that spark that you lost in a relationship / marriage when that person didn't value you. It's about moving on and being the best version of yourself and I am glad Soledad find that part of herself again.
March 7, 2024
Another stunning and powerful novel.
Watching Soledad go to one of her lowest places and then find the strength to drag herself back above the waves for her girls and herself, was painful yet beautiful. I loved seeing how the Skyland crew pull together and help lift her up.. it was so heartwarming.
Judah is a single dad of twin teenage boys, both of whom are on the Autism Spectrum, and he's a Forensic Accountant who may partially be responsible for the turn that Soledad's life takes at the beginning this book. It's not his fault but not everyone sees it that way.
I was an absolute goner for how patience, faithful, and swoony Judah was with Soledad.. He embodies so many great qualities and seeing his devotion to his kids, his co-parenting with his ex-wife and his protective side that comes out for Soledad, make him a Book Boyfriend for sure.
My one note is that this book felt very focused on Soledad's journey and her arc to finding herself. I feel like Judah was the same man at the beginning as at the end. That man is a freaking superstar, as previously mentioned but it made the novel feel less like a Romance and leaned more into Women's Fiction with a romantic element. A VERY good one, but I had to put that out there. Judah was already ready for commitment and Soledad had to work through her issues. Maybe we could have come back to them a few more years down the line where she has ALREADY self dated.
I was gripped by this story right from the jump and I barely put it down to eat yesterday. I can't wait to see what comes next for the Skyland Community.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
Watching Soledad go to one of her lowest places and then find the strength to drag herself back above the waves for her girls and herself, was painful yet beautiful. I loved seeing how the Skyland crew pull together and help lift her up.. it was so heartwarming.
Judah is a single dad of twin teenage boys, both of whom are on the Autism Spectrum, and he's a Forensic Accountant who may partially be responsible for the turn that Soledad's life takes at the beginning this book. It's not his fault but not everyone sees it that way.
I was an absolute goner for how patience, faithful, and swoony Judah was with Soledad.. He embodies so many great qualities and seeing his devotion to his kids, his co-parenting with his ex-wife and his protective side that comes out for Soledad, make him a Book Boyfriend for sure.
My one note is that this book felt very focused on Soledad's journey and her arc to finding herself. I feel like Judah was the same man at the beginning as at the end. That man is a freaking superstar, as previously mentioned but it made the novel feel less like a Romance and leaned more into Women's Fiction with a romantic element. A VERY good one, but I had to put that out there. Judah was already ready for commitment and Soledad had to work through her issues. Maybe we could have come back to them a few more years down the line where she has ALREADY self dated.
I was gripped by this story right from the jump and I barely put it down to eat yesterday. I can't wait to see what comes next for the Skyland Community.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
March 10, 2024
2.5 stars. Before I Let Go was perfect and I had high expectations for This Could Be Us. This started off so well and just… lost all momentum at part 2. Soledad’s inner monologues were repetitive and boring; literally a continuous loop of ‘Edward never appreciated me so I need to focus on myself and take care of my girls.’ We get it already. 😭 Honestly, it was unbearable towards the end. Soledad could’ve easily worked on herself while dating Judah… it didn’t have to be one or the other. Plus, right after Soledad would emphasize how she was on a self-partnering journey and didn’t want to date anyone, she would be all over Judah.
It would’ve been amazing if this romance book actually had some romance. And the 29,000 times Bell Hooks’s book was mentioned? Please, enough. Soledad was irritating. Judah not having a personality was irritating. I’m sorry, but Soledad’s sisters were irritating too. However, I loved the inclusion of autism in the story with Aaron and Adam. I also loved the cover art. I’ll always be excited for a new Kennedy Ryan book release, but this was not my favorite.
It would’ve been amazing if this romance book actually had some romance. And the 29,000 times Bell Hooks’s book was mentioned? Please, enough. Soledad was irritating. Judah not having a personality was irritating. I’m sorry, but Soledad’s sisters were irritating too. However, I loved the inclusion of autism in the story with Aaron and Adam. I also loved the cover art. I’ll always be excited for a new Kennedy Ryan book release, but this was not my favorite.
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