Can't Get Enough: Review

I wanted to be deep and philosphical, but then I just thought I would speak from the heart. Kennedy Ryan is in her bag. And I do mean, DEEP. I just finished the last installment of the Skyland Series and what a way to finish the arc of a group of friends that have grown near and dear to my heart. The stories of Yasmen, Soledad, and now the incomparable Hendrix Barry have changed me in so many ways. I am not sure if Kennedy has any idea how important her work is to Black womanhood, friendship, the romance genre, and book lovers.

Hendrix’s presence in the first two stories, “Before I Let Go” and “This Could Be Us” is minor but heartfelt. She is the seemingly carefree rich auntie with the spiciest and most unpredictable life and I knew her story would not disappoint. Hendrix is a go-getter, a great friend, a good time, free, and a force. I know a lot of reviewers will put themselves in Hendrix’s shoes but trust me, she is the most relatable and most inspirational at the same time. Not only do I identify with her persona, but I also identify with her life. The parallels almost made this book a hard read and not all for sad reasons.

Hendrix is a hard worker who is a natural nurturer and cares for everybody, asking for little in return, because when she loves she does not give any second thought to showing up and being present. That is me to a T. I know how it feels to genuinely root for everyone, but not allow yourself to aim for love along with success. I know how it feels to convince oneself there is no point in looking for a partner who can give love, support, refuge, and compassion. It is just not possible. I hope all my people get their desires of love fulfilled but me? I will just not even want that. Putting my energy in my work and education is what I am used to and can count on when everything else is uncertain. It is terrifying to put yourself on the front line and dare to breathe life into your own person. Hendrix was a master of this until the unexpected happened.

Photo via The Charlotte Post

People love to harp on opposites attracting but I love how Maverick and Hendrix were alike in more ways than they were different. In my opinion that’s what made this work. It is imperative when you have the responsibilities that Hendrix has and face the trials that unfolded in this story that you have someone by your side who understands. Maverick was just that. Their beginnings (not unusual for Kennedy’s characters) was organic and it came at a time when Hendrix needed it the most. She was undergoing so many different changes and Maverick just wanted to be there and their love grew from there. A billionaire who is present, open, full of strength and a rock without Hendrix even having to ask.

Watching parents grow older is one thing but being a caretaker is a new layer that is the reality for many people, especially my generation, the Millennials. That’s what I love about Kennedy. She pulls from her own experience and her noting her mom being a caretaker for her mom with Alzheimer's was sobering. Every detail in this story pulled at my heartstrings in ways I was not expecting from. Kennedy is grounded in truth and love and I thought Hendrix would be a feat, but the story unfolded beautifully. A happy ending looks different for everyone but as with all her stories, having people by  your side who are firmly planted makes the storm more bearable. So thankful for clinging to my friends harder in this stage of life and opening my heart to new possibilities at the same time. And I am so proud of myself for putting my whole heart on the line. Regardless of the outcome I know who I am and who has my back. Thank you, Kennedy, for allowing Hendrix and all your characters to be as vulnerable as they are strong. Currently, it is more imperative than ever that we find balance on our hunt for perfection!