Unveiling Resilience and Romance: A Book Review of ‘This Could Be Us’ by Kennedy Ryan @kennedyrwrites @readforeverpub #bookreview

In This Could Be Us resilience meets romance in a heartfelt tale of rebuilding, rediscovery, and the power of love.

Acknowledgements:

Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for the DRC of this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

From The Publisher:

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?

My Thoughts:

Kennedy Ryan’s “This Could Be Us” takes readers on a captivating journey of resilience, love, and self-discovery. Soledad Barnes, a woman accustomed to planning and fixing everything in her life, finds herself facing betrayal and disillusionment when her seemingly perfect world crumbles. Forced to rebuild from the ashes, Soledad embarks on a journey of rediscovery, strength, and unexpected attraction. This is the second book in the author’s Skyland series but can be read as a standalone.

Ryan’s prose effortlessly draws readers into Soledad’s world, showcasing her strength and vulnerability with remarkable depth. Despite the odds stacked against them, the undeniable chemistry between Soledad and Judah leaps off the pages, immersing readers in their tumultuous yet magnetic relationship.

While the steamy moments may not be for everyone, Ryan’s skillful storytelling ensures that the emotional core of the narrative remains compelling throughout. Additionally, the author’s personal connection to the subject matter, particularly through her portrayal of Judah’s sons on the spectrum, adds authenticity and depth to the story, shedding light on important issues with sensitivity and respect.

One of the book’s standout features is its portrayal of strong, resilient women navigating contemporary challenges. Soledad’s determination to provide for her daughters while embracing new opportunities resonates powerfully, offering readers a refreshing and empowering perspective.

Furthermore, Ryan skillfully addresses themes of forgiveness, family dynamics, and the complexities of modern relationships, ensuring that “This Could Be Us” is not merely a romance but a multifaceted exploration of the human experience.

In conclusion, “This Could Be Us” is a poignant and thought-provoking read that will leave readers captivated from beginning to end. With its well-developed characters, engaging plot, and heartfelt themes, it is sure to appeal to fans of romance and women’s fiction alike. Kennedy Ryan once again proves herself as a master storyteller, delivering a compelling narrative that lingers long after the final page.

Another Book in this Series:

Before I Let Go