This Could Be Us (Skyland, 2)

An instant New York Times and USA Today bestseller, featured on The Today Show and CBS Mornings.

From the bestselling author of Before I Let Go, an empowering and sizzling novel about two single parents navigating the balance between sacrifice and their own happiness--perfect for readers of Tia Williams and Colleen Hoover.

"Heart-searing, sensual, and life affirming." ―Emily Henry, #1 New York Times bestselling author

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?

"One of the finest romance writers of our age." ―Entertainment Weekly

"A gorgeously grown-up romance and a story about self-love and reinvention ... a great novel for readers who appreciate multilayered romantic fiction with elements of domestic drama, scandal, and inspiration." ―NPR

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Published Mar 5, 2024

416 pages

Average rating: 8.81

598 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

What Bookclubbers are saying about this book

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Readers say Kennedy Ryan’s *This Could Be Us* is an emotionally rich, authentic story about resilience, healing, and redefining love. Reviewers agree ...

Takayenna
Aug 13, 2024
10/10 stars
I think I loved Soledad’s story even more than Yasmeen’s. This was a great read. I loved the journey of Soledad rebuilding herself and learning to love herself, recognizing her strength, her capabilities, her worth, what she deserved and going for it all!!!! Great read.
Shat
May 07, 2024
9/10 stars
Soledad was an inspiration to women who have been married for a long time and start to lose sight of who they were and are. I really enjoyed this book and the fact that being 40 doesn't mean you still cant rekindle your marriage or love life.
KeeksLikes
Feb 17, 2026
8/10 stars
Review: This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan Synopsis (no spoilers): This Could Be Us follows Soledad as she navigates life after betrayal turns her carefully built world upside down. Determined to protect her daughters and rebuild her independence, she begins redefining what love, trust, and partnership truly mean. Along the way, unexpected connections challenge her fears and push her toward healing in ways she never imagined. This was an extremely well-written novel that feels authentic and culturally rich. Kennedy Ryan’s use of Black language and dialogue makes the story feel relatable and natural, adding depth and warmth to the characters. It was especially refreshing to see Black characters portrayed in such a positive light—successful, emotionally aware, and devoted parents. One of the standout elements for me was the portrayal of the Black father figure. He goes above and beyond for his children, is patient, kind, protective—and yes, very sexy from the way he’s described! It’s powerful to see that kind of representation: a strong, loving man who shows up fully for his family. While I didn’t find this instalment quite as gripping as the first book in the series, it was still a thoroughly enjoyable read. It builds beautifully on what we already knew about Soledad from the first book, where she appeared as the best friend of the main character. Here, we get to see her fully fleshed out, layered, and given the space to tell her own story. The book touches on topics that can often feel heavy in fiction, but they’re handled with care and balance. The writing keeps you turning the pages because you become genuinely invested in the characters’ growth and happiness. Overall, it’s heartfelt, empowering, and deeply engaging—a story about healing, family, and finding love in a way that feels both realistic and hopeful.
cbell9626
Feb 06, 2026
10/10 stars
What a great and entertaining love story!
KatHobbs
Jan 19, 2026
8/10 stars
Love this strong female representation; while also providing a very realistic viewpoint of a father successfully handling the challenge of two autistic kiddos and all the ups and downs that can come with it. Love to see healthy relationships of all stages 🩷🩷

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