Plot Summary
Marriage's Quiet Collapse
Judah and Tremaine sit in mediation, finalizing their divorce. Their once passionate love has faded into a respectful partnership focused on their autistic twin sons, Adam and Aaron. Judah feels relief rather than sorrow, prioritizing the boys' stability. Adam, perceptive and bright, understands the situation, while Aaron, less verbal, relies on a communication device. Despite their separation, Judah and Tremaine remain committed to co-parenting, ensuring their sons' lives remain as undisturbed as possible. This chapter sets the stage for the themes of family resilience and the complexities of modern relationships.
Custody and Consequences
Soledad prepares for a Christmas party with her husband, Edward, whose work stress strains their marriage. Their conversation reveals a growing distance, with Edward dismissing Soledad's concerns about their intimacy. At the party, Soledad meets Cross, a charming colleague of Edward's, sparking an unexpected connection. Edward's jealousy surfaces, but Soledad dismisses it, unaware of the deeper issues brewing. The evening ends with unresolved tension, leaving Soledad questioning the future of her marriage and setting the stage for the unraveling of hidden truths.
Unraveling Secrets and Lies
The FBI arrests Edward for embezzlement, turning Soledad's world upside down. As agents search their home, Soledad and her daughters are left in shock. Edward claims he's been framed by Cross, but Soledad must face the reality of his betrayal, including infidelity. The community buzzes with gossip, and Soledad struggles to maintain normalcy for her daughters. This chapter marks the beginning of Soledad's journey to uncover the truth and protect her family, highlighting themes of betrayal and resilience.
A Mother's Resolve
Determined to shield her daughters from the fallout, Soledad navigates the legal and financial challenges left by Edward's actions. She discovers a flash drive with evidence of his crimes and meets with Cross, who offers support. Despite initial distrust, Soledad realizes Cross is an ally in her fight for justice. Her resolve strengthens as she balances her roles as a mother and a woman seeking independence. This chapter emphasizes Soledad's resilience and the importance of self-discovery and empowerment in the face of adversity.
Unexpected Allies and Discoveries
Cross becomes a crucial ally, helping Soledad navigate the legal complexities of Edward's case. He provides insight into the embezzlement scheme and supports her efforts to secure her family's future. As they work together, a mutual respect and attraction develop, complicating Soledad's journey of self-reliance. This partnership offers hope amid turmoil, highlighting the power of unexpected alliances and the potential for new beginnings.
Rebuilding and Rediscovering
With Cross's help, Soledad secures her family's financial stability and begins to rebuild her life. She embraces her role as a single mother, finding strength in her daughters and community. Soledad explores new opportunities, including a potential career in content creation, sharing her journey of resilience and growth. Her relationship with Cross evolves, offering the possibility of love and companionship. This chapter underscores the themes of empowerment and the transformative power of self-discovery.
Unexpected Reunion and Confessions
After a period of separation, Judah and Soledad are drawn back together, leading to a heartfelt confession of love from Judah. Soledad, still grappling with her past and need for independence, is hesitant but moved by Judah's sincerity. Their connection is undeniable, and they both acknowledge the potential for a future together, despite past complications. This chapter explores the themes of love and independence, forgiveness, and the possibility of new beginnings.
A New Beginning Unfolds
Soledad is offered a partnership with a prestigious lifestyle brand, marking a significant step in her career. This opportunity symbolizes her growth and independence, showcasing her ability to thrive despite past challenges. As she navigates this new chapter, Soledad reflects on her journey of self-discovery and the importance of balancing personal and professional aspirations. This chapter highlights the theme of empowerment and the pursuit of personal fulfillment.
Family Dynamics and Challenges
Soledad and Judah face the complexities of blending their families. Soledad's daughters struggle with their father's actions and Judah's introduction into their lives. Meanwhile, Judah's sons, who have unique needs, require careful attention and understanding. Both Soledad and Judah are committed to creating a harmonious family environment, emphasizing communication and empathy. This chapter explores the challenges and rewards of modern family dynamics.
Love and Self-Discovery
Soledad continues her journey of self-discovery, learning to love herself unconditionally. This process is crucial as she navigates her relationship with Judah, ensuring she maintains her independence while embracing their love. Soledad's growth is a testament to her resilience and the power of self-acceptance. This chapter underscores the importance of self-love and the balance between personal and relational needs.
Facing the Past, Embracing Future
Soledad confronts lingering issues from her past, including her ex-husband's betrayal and its impact on her daughters. By addressing these challenges head-on, she finds closure and peace, allowing her to fully embrace her future with Judah. This chapter highlights the importance of facing one's past to move forward with clarity and strength, emphasizing themes of healing and renewal.
A Journey to Contentment
Soledad and Judah embark on a journey together, both literally and metaphorically, as they travel and explore new experiences. Their relationship flourishes as they support each other's dreams and aspirations. Soledad finds contentment in her personal and professional life, realizing that true happiness comes from within and is enhanced by the love she shares with Judah. This chapter concludes the narrative with themes of fulfillment and the enduring power of love.
Characters
Soledad
Soledad is a devoted mother whose life is upended by her husband's betrayal. She navigates the challenges of Edward's arrest with determination, focusing on her daughters' well-being. Soledad's journey of self-discovery leads her to embrace independence and explore new opportunities. Her resilience and strength shine as she rebuilds her life, finding unexpected allies and potential love along the way.
Judah
Judah is a devoted father and partner, deeply in love with Soledad. His patience and understanding are pivotal in helping Soledad navigate her personal journey. Judah's commitment to his family and his willingness to embrace Soledad's independence make him an ideal partner, embodying the balance of love and independence.
Edward
Edward is Soledad's husband, whose arrest for embezzlement shatters their family. His charm masks a web of lies and betrayal, including infidelity and financial crimes. Edward's actions force Soledad to confront painful truths and fight for her family's future. His downfall serves as a catalyst for Soledad's journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Tremaine
Tremaine is Judah's ex-wife and the mother of their twin sons. Despite their failed marriage, she and Judah remain united in their commitment to their children. Tremaine's strength and resilience mirror Soledad's, offering a parallel journey of navigating life after divorce. Her presence highlights the complexities of co-parenting and the enduring bonds of family.
Adam and Aaron
Adam and Aaron are Judah and Tremaine's twin sons, each with unique challenges and strengths. Their autism shapes their experiences and the dynamics of their family. Adam is bright and inquisitive, while Aaron communicates through a device. Their journey highlights the importance of stability and support, as their parents work to minimize the impact of their divorce.
Cross
Cross is a forensic accountant who uncovers Edward's embezzlement. His role as an ally to Soledad is pivotal, offering insight and support as she navigates the fallout of Edward's actions. Cross's presence challenges Soledad to confront her feelings and embrace new possibilities, while his integrity and strength provide a foundation for their evolving relationship.
Inez
Inez, Soledad's daughter, grapples with the changes in her family dynamics following her father's betrayal. Her journey reflects the challenges of accepting new relationships and finding her place within a blended family. Inez's growth is marked by her ability to reconcile her feelings and embrace the love and support around her.
Plot Devices
Embezzlement Scheme
The embezzlement scheme orchestrated by Edward serves as the catalyst for the story's events. It exposes the cracks in Soledad's marriage and forces her to confront painful truths. The scheme's unraveling, aided by Judah's expertise, propels Soledad's journey of self-discovery and empowerment. It highlights themes of betrayal, justice, and resilience, driving the narrative forward.
Custody and Co-Parenting
The custody arrangement between Judah and Tremaine, and Soledad's role as a single mother, explore the complexities of co-parenting after divorce. These dynamics underscore the importance of stability and support for their children, while also highlighting the challenges and growth that come with navigating life after a marriage ends. The theme of family resilience is woven throughout the narrative.
Self-Discovery and Empowerment
The theme of self-discovery and empowerment is woven throughout the narrative, driving Soledad's journey and influencing her decisions. This plot device highlights the importance of self-love and acceptance, emphasizing that true happiness comes from within and is enhanced by meaningful relationships.
Blended Family Dynamics
The narrative explores the complexities of blended family dynamics, focusing on the challenges and rewards of integrating families with diverse needs and backgrounds. This plot device underscores the importance of communication, empathy, and collaboration in creating a harmonious family environment.
Love and Independence
The balance between love and independence is a key plot device, reflecting Soledad's journey to find happiness in her relationship with Judah while maintaining her sense of self. This theme emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and understanding in a healthy partnership.
Analysis
"This Could Be Us" by Kennedy Ryan delves into the complexities of modern relationships, family dynamics, and personal growth. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, resilience, and empowerment, highlighting the importance of self-discovery and empowerment. Soledad's journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, as she navigates the challenges of her husband's betrayal and the subsequent upheaval in her life. The story emphasizes the power of love, both romantic and familial, as a source of healing and strength. Through Soledad's experiences, the book conveys the message that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, and that embracing one's independence and self-worth is essential to building meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life.
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FAQ
Synopsis & Basic Details
What is This Could Be Us about?
- A woman's journey to self-discovery: The story follows Soledad, a woman whose life is upended by her husband's betrayal and imprisonment, forcing her to navigate single motherhood, financial instability, and a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
- Unexpected alliances and love: Soledad finds an unexpected ally in Judah, the man who exposed her husband's crimes, leading to a complex relationship that challenges her notions of love and independence.
- Family resilience and growth: The narrative explores the dynamics of a blended family, highlighting the challenges and rewards of co-parenting, and the importance of communication and empathy in navigating life's complexities.
Why should I read This Could Be Us?
- Emotional depth and complexity: The novel delves into the raw emotions of betrayal, loss, and resilience, offering a deeply moving and relatable exploration of the human experience.
- Strong female lead: Soledad's journey of self-discovery and empowerment is inspiring, showcasing her strength and determination as she rebuilds her life and redefines her identity.
- Complex relationships and dynamics: The story explores the nuances of modern relationships, including the challenges of co-parenting, blended families, and the complexities of love and independence.
What is the background of This Could Be Us?
- Contemporary setting in Atlanta: The story is set in the affluent community of Skyland, Atlanta, providing a backdrop of modern life and the challenges of balancing career, family, and personal growth.
- Focus on autism and neurodiversity: The novel features autistic characters, Adam and Aaron, highlighting the spectrum of autism and the importance of understanding and acceptance.
- Exploration of cultural identity: Soledad's Puerto Rican heritage and her family's history add depth to her character and provide a cultural context for her experiences and values.
What are the most memorable quotes in This Could Be Us?
- "The longer I live, the more deeply I learn that love—whether we call it friendship or family or romance—is the work of mirroring and magnifying each other's light.": This quote, from James Baldwin, encapsulates the novel's theme of love as a force for growth and mutual support.
- "There are years that ask questions and years that answer.": This quote, from Zora Neale Hurston, foreshadows Soledad's journey of self-discovery and the answers she finds after a period of turmoil.
- "I'm not saying this won't be hard. I don't know what's happening either, but there's one thing I do know. I will take care of you.": This quote highlights Soledad's fierce love for her daughters and her determination to protect them, even in the face of adversity.
What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Kennedy Ryan use?
- Dual POV with alternating chapters: The story is told from both Soledad's and Judah's perspectives, providing insight into their thoughts and feelings, and creating a more complete picture of their evolving relationship.
- Emotional and introspective prose: Ryan's writing style is characterized by its emotional depth and introspective nature, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a profound level.
- Use of symbolism and motifs: The novel employs recurring objects and themes, such as the color red, the concept of home, and the act of cooking, to enhance the story's meaning and emotional impact.
Hidden Details & Subtle Connections
What are some minor details that add significant meaning?
- The red tie: Edward's red polka-dot tie, described as resembling drops of blood, foreshadows the violence and betrayal that will soon disrupt Soledad's life.
- The gold dress: Soledad's choice to wear the gold dress instead of the red one Edward prefers symbolizes her rebellion against his control and her embrace of her own desires.
- The Rubik's Cubes: Aaron's skill with Rubik's Cubes represents his unique way of processing the world and his ability to find order in chaos, a trait he shares with his father.
What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?
- Edward's assistant's name: Edward saying his assistant's name in his sleep foreshadows his infidelity and the deeper betrayal that is to come.
- Soledad's comment about chicken breasts: Soledad's comment about the size of the CalPot pan foreshadows her later connection with Delores Callahan and her growing influence within the company.
- The photo of Judah and Aaron: The photo of Judah sleeping with Aaron, which Aaron shows to Kimberly, foreshadows the deep bond between them and the eventual shift in custody arrangements.
What are some unexpected character connections?
- Soledad and Delores Callahan: Their initial adversarial interaction at the Christmas party evolves into a surprising alliance, as Delores recognizes Soledad's honesty and talent.
- Soledad and Aaron: Soledad's ability to connect with Aaron, despite his communication challenges, reveals her empathy and understanding of neurodiversity.
- Judah and Tremaine: Their continued friendship and co-parenting relationship, despite their divorce, highlights their maturity and commitment to their children's well-being.
Who are the most significant supporting characters?
- Hendrix and Yasmen: Soledad's best friends provide unwavering support, humor, and practical advice, serving as a crucial source of strength and encouragement throughout her journey.
- Ms. Coleman: The respite worker who becomes a part of Judah's family, providing stability and care for Adam and Aaron, and highlighting the importance of community support.
- Dr. Morgan: The headmistress of Harrington, who shows compassion and understanding for Soledad's situation, and provides a sense of stability for her daughters.
Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis
What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?
- Edward's need for control: Edward's actions are driven by a need for control and validation, leading him to seek power through financial schemes and infidelity.
- Soledad's fear of vulnerability: Soledad's initial reluctance to embrace her feelings for Judah stems from a fear of vulnerability and a desire to protect herself from further heartbreak.
- Judah's desire for connection: Judah's actions are motivated by a deep desire for connection and a need to protect those he cares about, particularly Soledad and her daughters.
What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?
- Soledad's struggle with self-worth: Soledad grapples with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, stemming from her husband's betrayal and her own perceived failures.
- Judah's emotional guardedness: Judah's emotional guardedness is a result of his past experiences and his need to protect himself and his sons from further pain.
- Edward's narcissistic tendencies: Edward's narcissistic tendencies are evident in his lack of empathy, his need for control, and his inability to take responsibility for his actions.
What are the major emotional turning points?
- Soledad's discovery of Edward's infidelity: This revelation shatters her trust and forces her to confront the reality of her marriage, setting her on a path of self-discovery.
- Soledad's decision to turn over the flash drive: This act signifies her commitment to justice and her willingness to prioritize her family's well-being over her own comfort.
- Judah and Soledad's first kiss: This moment marks a turning point in their relationship, revealing the depth of their attraction and the potential for a deeper connection.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
- Soledad and Edward's marriage: Their relationship deteriorates from a seemingly stable partnership to a toxic dynamic marked by betrayal and deceit.
- Soledad and Judah's relationship: Their relationship evolves from an unexpected alliance to a deep connection built on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared desire for a meaningful partnership.
- Soledad and her daughters' relationship: Their relationship evolves from a traditional mother-daughter dynamic to a more collaborative and supportive partnership, as they navigate the challenges of their new reality.
Interpretation & Debate
Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?
- The full extent of Edward's crimes: While the novel reveals the core of Edward's embezzlement scheme, the full scope of his financial misdeeds and the location of all the stolen money remain somewhat ambiguous.
- The future of Soledad and Judah's relationship: While they express their love for each other, the long-term trajectory of their relationship and the challenges they may face remain open-ended.
- The impact on the girls: The long-term emotional and psychological impact of Edward's actions on his daughters is left somewhat open-ended, allowing readers to consider the complexities of their healing process.
What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in This Could Be Us?
- Soledad's initial attraction to Judah: Some readers may find Soledad's attraction to Judah while still married to Edward to be controversial, raising questions about the boundaries of desire and loyalty.
- Soledad's decision to turn over the flash drive: Some readers may debate whether Soledad should have prioritized her family's financial security over her husband's freedom, raising questions about the ethics of her actions.
- Judah's role in Edward's downfall: Some readers may question whether Judah's actions were motivated by a genuine desire for justice or by his personal feelings for Soledad, raising questions about his objectivity.
This Could Be Us Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means
- Soledad and Judah's commitment to each other: The ending emphasizes their commitment to building a life together on their own terms, prioritizing their individual needs and desires while embracing their love.
- Soledad's self-discovery and empowerment: The ending highlights Soledad's journey of self-discovery and empowerment and her ability to create a fulfilling life for herself and her daughters, independent of her past.
- The enduring power of love and family: The ending underscores the importance of love and family as sources of strength and resilience, emphasizing that true happiness comes from within and is enhanced by meaningful relationships.
Review Summary
This Could Be Us received mostly positive reviews, praised for its emotional depth, representation of autism, and exploration of self-love and healing. Readers appreciated the strong characters, particularly Soledad's journey of rediscovery. Some felt the romance took a backseat to women's fiction elements. Critics noted a lack of chemistry between the leads and repetitive inner monologues. Overall, Kennedy Ryan's writing was lauded for its ability to captivate readers, though some longtime fans felt it didn't meet the high bar set by her previous works.
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