Maybe Someday (Maybe, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Colleen Hoover's "Maybe Someday" centers around Sydney, a young aspiring singer-songwriter struggling to balance her passion with her demanding life. She's deeply unhappy in her relationship with Ridge, a controlling and emotionally unavailable boyfriend who, despite his outward charm, stunts her personal and artistic growth. Their codependent dynamic forms a significant part of the early narrative, showcasing Sydney’s struggle to prioritize her own happiness and identify her self-worth outside of the relationship.

Living next door is Warren, a talented musician and Ridge's best friend. Initially, Sydney and Warren only interact through shared walls, their musical collaborations happening entirely through shared headphones passed between their apartments. Their connection blossoms amidst shared songs and late-night conversations, revealing a powerful emotional intimacy that contrasts starkly with Sydney's superficial bond with Ridge. Their musical collaboration, itself a metaphor for their growing connection, serves as the central plot device, weaving their individual journeys together.

The story unfolds through a series of escalating emotional events. As Sydney and Warren’s music takes shape, so does their unspoken attraction. The songs they create become a chronicle of their evolving feelings, reflecting their hopes, doubts, and anxieties. The music serves not only as a creative outlet but as a crucial form of communication, bypassing the constraints of their complex situations.

However, their connection is complicated by Sydney’s existing relationship and the established friendship between Ridge and Warren. The triangular dynamic generates considerable tension and internal conflict for all involved. Sydney grapples with guilt, loyalty, and the fear of jeopardizing her friendship with Warren, whilst Ridge struggles with his own insecurities and possessive nature. The novel explores the challenging terrain of breaking free from unhealthy relationships and the subsequent uncertainty that follows.

As Sydney navigates this emotional rollercoaster, she confronts her self-doubt and begins to assert her independence. She challenges Ridge’s control, eventually breaking off the relationship, a process depicted as both liberating and frightening. The novel culminates in Sydney choosing herself, choosing her happiness and pursuing her dreams with renewed courage and clarity. The resolution, while hopeful, acknowledges the complexities of life, hinting that the path to self-discovery isn't always easy or linear.

Ultimately, "Maybe Someday" explores themes of self-discovery, the importance of healthy relationships, and the power of pursuing one's dreams. It emphasizes the necessity of escaping toxic relationships and embracing one's true self, even if it means facing difficult decisions and uncertain futures. The novel’s success lies in its relatable characters, emotional depth, and the potent metaphor of music as a vehicle for self-expression and connection.