Just when you think Kennedy Ryan can't outdo herself she invades your psyche with her pen. This Could Be Us was Soledad's story of finding herself and leaning on her community. Experiencing the growing pains of independence alongside such an endearing main character was a treat. I was just as invested in her personal growth as in her budding relationship with Judah. Their relationship did not come without drama but the care they had for their loved ones emphasized that there was no one more deserving of a love story than those two. Judah was a love interest like no other who was kind, focused, and dedicated. He like Soledad had a personal strength that I will chase for the rest of my life.

Something is healing about Kennedy Ryan's writing. I finish each novel wanting to be a better person and challenge myself. TCBU was no different. So far the Skyland series emphasizes how to find contentment in existing relationships while creating boundaries for new romantic ones. While I thought I was reading a fictional story about SOledad this may be the closest I get to reading self-help. I can tell that Kennedy put time and intentionality into researching all about love, the culture of Soledad, and the experience of autistic children and their families. I am grateful for her vulnerability in using her own experience to speak to this as well. Kennedy Ryan's dedication to accurate representation adds to the fullness and relatability of her characters. 

TCBU is an instant classic. I didn't think anything could measure up to BILG and it didn't. Soledad and Judah stood on their own, confident in their individuality and the message they had to share.