If Tomorrow Comes (Tracy Whitney Series, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Sidney Sheldon's "If Tomorrow Comes" follows the compelling journey of Tracy Whitney, a young woman wrongly accused of a crime she didn't commit – the theft of $20 million from a New York bank. Framed by her seemingly benevolent employer, she is thrust into a terrifying world of prison, betrayal, and relentless pursuit. The narrative unfolds in two distinct parts, reflecting Tracy's evolution from a naive, trusting individual to a resourceful, cunning survivor.

Initially, Tracy, portrayed as intelligent and ambitious, finds herself utterly helpless. Her life is shattered as she's convicted and subjected to the harsh realities of prison life. While incarcerated, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, both helpful and harmful. She forms an unlikely friendship with a hardened inmate, who teaches her the brutal realities of prison and instills in her a sense of resilience. This experience fundamentally alters Tracy, forcing her to adapt and develop survival skills that extend beyond the prison walls.

Upon escaping prison, aided by a clandestine contact, Tracy embarks on a daring quest for revenge and exoneration. She uses her intelligence and newfound skills to infiltrate the criminal underworld, carefully piecing together the conspiracy that led to her wrongful conviction. This second part of the novel is a thrilling chase, showcasing Tracy's ingenuity and resourcefulness as she maneuvers through dangerous situations, constantly evading capture by the authorities and those who orchestrated her downfall.

A key figure is Charles Rutledge, the seemingly respectable and powerful banker who framed Tracy. He represents the insidious corruption lurking beneath the surface of high society, demonstrating how wealth and power can be used to manipulate and destroy others. Other important characters include her prison friends and allies who, despite their own flaws and backgrounds, help her survive and fight back. They represent the unexpected kindness and solidarity found in the most unlikely of places.

The overarching theme revolves around the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. Tracy's journey highlights the transformative power of trauma, showcasing how a seemingly ordinary individual can overcome extraordinary challenges and emerge stronger. The novel also explores the themes of justice, betrayal, and the complexities of the criminal justice system. It questions the presumption of guilt and examines the ease with which lives can be irrevocably damaged by powerful individuals operating outside the bounds of the law. Finally, the story subtly examines the morally gray areas of revenge, highlighting the potential for self-destruction that can accompany the pursuit of retribution. Despite her suffering, Tracy ultimately seeks justice rather than simply revenge, showcasing a complex character who retains her moral compass amidst chaos.