

Can't Get Enough
Author: Kennedy Ryan
Genre: Romance
Romance Subgenre: Contemporary African American Romance
Topics: Ambition, Black Excellence, Caregiving, Emotional Depth, Forbidden Romance, Professional Life, Self-Discovery
Release Date: May 13, 2025
Summary
Can’t Get Enough follows Hendrix Barry, a powerhouse entertainment agent and VC mentor, as she navigates a life of ambition, caregiving, and unexpected love. Hendrix has meticulously crafted her world—successful career, devoted friends, and a clear purpose—until she meets tech titan Maverick Bell. Their first encounter sends shockwaves through her carefully ordered life, challenging everything she thought she wanted. This story pulses with emotional depth, sizzling tension, and the profound realization that the richest rewards often lie in opening your heart.
No spoiler, but prepare for a journey that balances self-reliance and vulnerability, ambition and intimacy. Hendrix’s path to truly embracing love—on her terms—hooks you from the first chapter.
Characters
Hendrix Barry

Hendrix, in her early 40s, is a high‑achieving Black entertainment agent and mentor to Black female entrepreneurs. She’s focused, driven, caring—juggling her thriving career with the needs of her aging mother. Her journey reveals the heart of a woman who has to learn that opening up her heart doesn’t mean losing control.
Maverick Bell

Maverick, a tech industry superstar in his early 40s, is calm, intelligent, and empathetic. As a successful Black tech founder, he’s sophisticated yet grounded—his emotional intelligence and shared experiences with caregiving form a deep connection with Hendrix.
Special Editions
Barnes & Noble Exclusive Edition
This edition features a unique color‑foil cover and bonus content exclusive to Barnes & Noble.
Autographed Paperback Edition
A limited autographed paperback edition with author signature and certificate of authenticity, offered through select indie bookstores and online preorder.
Indie Bookstore Special Pre‑Order Package
Preorder from Black‑owned bookstores includes a signed bookplate, character art postcard, and a commemorative sticker to support indie retailers.
Age Rating
This book is rated 18+. It features mature themes, sensual scenes, and adult relationships. Best suited for readers seeking an emotionally rich, grown‑up romance experience.
Banned
There are no records of Can’t Get Enough being banned anywhere. It has received broad acceptance and acclaim across markets and educational contexts.
Who is this book for?
This book is for readers seeking a sophisticated, emotionally layered romance featuring professionally driven Black leads confronting real-life complexities.
Recommended for fans of:
- Strong, career-minded Black female protagonists
- Stories involving caregiving and family responsibility
- Contemporary, sensual romance with emotional depth
If you enjoyed these books, you’ll love “Can’t Get Enough” by Kennedy Ryan:
- “Get a Life, Chloe Brown” by Talia Hibbert (Black female lead, chronic health theme)
- “Ride with me” by Simone Soltani (Slow-burn, small-town romance)
- “The Partner Plot” by Kristina Forest (Charming rival fake a summer relationship)
Sweetest Surprise Bake and Book Giveaway
Indulge in a cozy surprise each month with a handpicked book, beautifully wrapped, and a homemade sweet treat inspired by the stories we love. Subscribe to our newsletter to enter for a chance to win every month!
Diverse Elements
The book and author highlight meaningful diversity:
- Black Protagonists: Both main characters, Hendrix and Maverick, are Black professionals navigating high‑pressure careers, caregiving, and love.
- Caregiving Theme: The story explicitly explores caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s—a narrative often underrepresented.
- Professional Success: Female Black leadership and economic empowerment are central, challenging stereotypical romantic tropes.
- Author Advocacy: Kennedy Ryan is a Black author and autism advocate (LIFT 4 Autism); her lived experience informs the emotional authenticity of her characters.
Together, these elements enrich the narrative with authentic representation and emotional resonance.
What do readers think?
- Emotionally Rich: Readers praise its balance of laughter, tears, and spice, calling it “heart‑searing” and “thrumming with life.”
- Relatable Protagonist: Fans highlight the authenticity of Hendrix’s challenges—career drive and caring for a loved one—making her journey deeply resonant.
- Satisfying Romance: The chemistry between Hendrix and Maverick is widely celebrated—readers describe it as “sizzling, genuine, and inspiring.”
Sweet Pairing

Molten Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Coulis
Why it fits:
This rich, warm dessert mirrors the book’s intensity, slow-burning passion, and emotional depth. The molten center represents hidden vulnerability, while the bright raspberry drizzle adds a pop of tart contrast—just like the moments of levity and sharp wit between the characters.
Serving idea:
Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh raspberries, maybe even a glass of red wine for full effect. Perfect for a book club night or a solo indulgent read.
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About the Author

Kennedy Ryan is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author dedicated to writing emotionally resonant romance that centers marginalized voices. A journalism graduate from UNC Chapel Hill, she is also the co‑founder of LIFT 4 Autism, a charitable initiative raising awareness through book auctions. She’s celebrated for her depth, candor, and representation in storytelling.
Ryan’s award‑winning work—she was the first Black author to win a RITA Award in 2019—often addresses themes of self‑love, social justice, and personal healing. Her Skyland series is currently in development for television, and she continues to engage audiences through speaking events, advocacy, and heartfelt narrative craft.
