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?

These book club questions were prepared by Bookclubs staff

Book club questions for This Could Be Us by Kennedy Ryan

Use these discussion questions to guide your next book club meeting.

Soledad goes through a major transformation over the course of the novel, rebuilding her life and sense of self. What did you think of her character arc and growth? Were there any particular moments that stood out to you?

Family is a central theme, as both Soledad and Judah prioritize their roles as parents. Compare and contrast their family dynamics.

Found family is also an important component of the novel. Discuss the female friendships portrayed, especially between Soledad, Yasmen and Hendrix. What role did these bonds play in the overall narrative?

Judah's role as a father and his co-parenting relationship with his ex-wife are complicated by their sons' autism. What did you take away from the depiction of parenting children on the spectrum? Did it increase your understanding?

The book handles some heavy topics like betrayal, emotional abuse, and the challenges of single motherhood. Did you find the portrayal authentic and relatable?

The theme of self-love and putting yourself first is emphasized, especially for Soledad. Why is this an important message? Did any quotes or scenes around this topic particularly resonate with you?

This Could Be Us is a romance, but the romance isn't always central, as the novel follows Soledad's friendships and journey of self-discovery. Did you prefer the romantic sections or the more dramatic sections, or did you enjoy the balance?

If you've read Before I Let Go, how did reading that book first enhance your experience with This Could Be Us? For those new to the Skyland series, did it make you want to go back and read the previous book?

This Could Be Us Book Club Questions PDF

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