Sometimes Never (Sometimes Never, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Cheryl McIntyre's "Sometimes Never" introduces us to the complex world of Sarah and Finn, two individuals bound by a shared past and haunted by a tragic accident that irrevocably altered their lives. The novel unfolds primarily through Sarah's perspective, allowing the reader intimate access to her emotional turmoil and internal struggles.

Sixteen years prior, a devastating car crash claimed the lives of Sarah's parents and left her and Finn, then young children, deeply scarred. Sarah, the only survivor besides Finn, has built a life marked by quiet solitude and unspoken grief. Finn, meanwhile, has become a successful but emotionally distant architect, burdened by survivor's guilt and a fractured relationship with Sarah. Their connection, once deeply rooted in childhood intimacy, now exists primarily as an unspoken tension and lingering resentment.

The catalyst for the novel's central conflict is Sarah's decision to return to their hometown, a place she left behind to escape the painful memories. Her return forces a confrontation with Finn, a reunion that stirs up long-buried emotions and unspoken accusations. Sarah seeks closure and understanding regarding the accident, something she's perpetually lacked. Finn, on the other hand, desperately tries to maintain the distance he's meticulously constructed around himself, fearing that confronting the past will shatter the fragile peace he's managed to create.

Their interactions are fraught with emotional volatility. Their conversations, often laced with subtext and years of unspoken words, reveal the deep-seated wounds caused by the accident and its aftermath. They grapple with guilt, grief, and the lingering question of responsibility, often blaming themselves for what happened. The novel delves into the complex dynamics of trauma, showing how it manifests differently in individuals and how it can fracture relationships.

As Sarah and Finn begin to confront their past, they unearth suppressed memories and painful truths. The novel gradually reveals the events leading up to the accident, subtly exposing details that challenge their existing perceptions and assumptions. Their journey isn't merely about reconciling their past, but also about accepting their present realities and finding a way to move forward. This process involves forgiveness, both of themselves and of each other, as they work towards healing and acceptance.

The overarching theme of "Sometimes Never" centers on the enduring power of trauma and the complexities of grief and healing. It explores the ways in which a single event can shape an individual's life and the challenges of rebuilding relationships fractured by loss and unspoken pain. The novel ultimately suggests that true healing necessitates confronting the past, embracing vulnerability, and finding the courage to forgive oneself and others. The rekindled connection between Sarah and Finn symbolizes the potential for reconciliation and the enduring strength of human connection even in the face of profound loss.