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What Tomorrow Will Be: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 3 Feb 26From
USA Today
bestselling author Julianne MacLean comes a captivating tale of a life caught between the past and the present…and a true love unbound by space and time.
Some loves never die. But only one will shape her future…
At nineteen, Sienna MacKay believed she had it all—a promising career ahead of her and a young love destined to last forever. But a tragic accident shatters that idyllic existence, leaving her with a heartbreaking loss.
Years later, Sienna has rebuilt her life. She’s a successful designer, a devoted mother, and a woman who has dared to love again—with Nate, a passionate, rising-star chef. But as Nate drifts further into ambition, cracks surface in their once-bright marriage. A stormy confrontation ends in disaster, and Sienna becomes caught between two worlds—her near-perfect past and her more complicated present—where she must ask What is the price of true love…and is she willing to pay?
Set on the majestic, rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, What Tomorrow Will Be is a magical, emotional novel about first love, second chances, and finding the courage to stay…or the will to go.
Some loves never die. But only one will shape her future…
At nineteen, Sienna MacKay believed she had it all—a promising career ahead of her and a young love destined to last forever. But a tragic accident shatters that idyllic existence, leaving her with a heartbreaking loss.
Years later, Sienna has rebuilt her life. She’s a successful designer, a devoted mother, and a woman who has dared to love again—with Nate, a passionate, rising-star chef. But as Nate drifts further into ambition, cracks surface in their once-bright marriage. A stormy confrontation ends in disaster, and Sienna becomes caught between two worlds—her near-perfect past and her more complicated present—where she must ask What is the price of true love…and is she willing to pay?
Set on the majestic, rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, What Tomorrow Will Be is a magical, emotional novel about first love, second chances, and finding the courage to stay…or the will to go.
316 pages, Paperback
Expected publication February 3, 2026
1 person is currently reading
228 people want to read
About the author
Julianne MacLean
79 books4,298 followersJulianne MacLean is a USA Today bestselling author of more than thirty novels, including the contemporary women’s fiction Color of Heaven Series. Readers have described her books as “breathtaking,” “soulful” and “uplifting.” MacLean is a four-time RITA finalist and has won numerous awards, including the Booksellers’ Best Award and a Reviewers’ Choice Award from Romantic Times. Her novels have sold millions of copies worldwide and have been published in over a dozen languages.
MacLean has a degree in English literature from the University of King’s College in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and a degree in business administration from Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. She loves to travel and has lived in New Zealand, Canada, and England. MacLean currently resides on the east coast of Canada in a lakeside home with her husband and daughter.
For more information about Julianne and her writing life, please visit her website at www.juliannemaclean.com. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub to be notified whenever her ebooks are offered for FREE or 99 cents. (www.bookbub.com/authors/julianne-maclean) and chat with her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JulianneMacLeanRoman...), Twitter (@JulianneMacLean), and Instagram (@JulianneMaclean).
MacLean has a degree in English literature from the University of King’s College in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and a degree in business administration from Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. She loves to travel and has lived in New Zealand, Canada, and England. MacLean currently resides on the east coast of Canada in a lakeside home with her husband and daughter.
For more information about Julianne and her writing life, please visit her website at www.juliannemaclean.com. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub to be notified whenever her ebooks are offered for FREE or 99 cents. (www.bookbub.com/authors/julianne-maclean) and chat with her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JulianneMacLeanRoman...), Twitter (@JulianneMacLean), and Instagram (@JulianneMaclean).
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️ 4.25 ⭐️ Grief is a natural way love honors what it misses. This is a story about complexities of life, loss, forgiveness and growth that happens during healing. MacLean wrote a tale that can resonate with many women, mothers especially. There is beauty in tragedy but that is not to say it comes to us pain-free. There are lessons to be learned, perhaps even hope after forgiveness.
In 1990s Nova Scotia, a 19 year old Sienna loses her soulmate to a freak accident while hiking. Years later, she meets Nate, a law student who has completely given up because it’s not his calling. Together, they pursue their dreams, build a house, have two children and are very happy. Like all marriages, they run into a period of uncertainty and find the distance growing between themselves. They try to reconnect but an unforeseen moment leads to a tragedy that will change the course of their relationship. Can they finally overcome their differences? What would it take to find themselves back to each other?
What makes this novel so compelling is the words of forgiveness that MacLean uses throughout her grieving and healing journey. She added “turbulence” to the novel to help us feel a range of emotions for all the characters. Nate, the man that he was back then and the man he is now—showed us all the changes that we go through as individuals and as couples. Sometimes these changes can have a lasting impact not just on self but others as well.
While it did feel a bit soapy at one point, I think the point MacLean was trying to make was of the “lessons that are learned” throughout life, especially during traumatic events. I would highly recommend this contemporary fiction/women’s fiction for anyone who enjoys emotional reads that focus on the dilemmas of life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author, Julianne Maclean for sending me this eARC!
Publication date: February 3, 2026
In 1990s Nova Scotia, a 19 year old Sienna loses her soulmate to a freak accident while hiking. Years later, she meets Nate, a law student who has completely given up because it’s not his calling. Together, they pursue their dreams, build a house, have two children and are very happy. Like all marriages, they run into a period of uncertainty and find the distance growing between themselves. They try to reconnect but an unforeseen moment leads to a tragedy that will change the course of their relationship. Can they finally overcome their differences? What would it take to find themselves back to each other?
What makes this novel so compelling is the words of forgiveness that MacLean uses throughout her grieving and healing journey. She added “turbulence” to the novel to help us feel a range of emotions for all the characters. Nate, the man that he was back then and the man he is now—showed us all the changes that we go through as individuals and as couples. Sometimes these changes can have a lasting impact not just on self but others as well.
While it did feel a bit soapy at one point, I think the point MacLean was trying to make was of the “lessons that are learned” throughout life, especially during traumatic events. I would highly recommend this contemporary fiction/women’s fiction for anyone who enjoys emotional reads that focus on the dilemmas of life.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing and the author, Julianne Maclean for sending me this eARC!
Publication date: February 3, 2026
October 12, 2025
I was drawn into this novel immediately by the compelling prologue. This is a story that is brutally honest about the complexities of love, loss, and family relationships…yet these topics are addressed with sensitivity and compassion.
Over a twenty-plus year period, Sienna McKay experiences horrific physical and emotional trauma with strength and grace. After losing her first “perfect” love, she moves on to marry and have a family with Nate, who becomes obsessed with his restaurant at the expense of everything he holds dear. The dynamics of their marriage lay the groundwork for a tragedy as well as an opportunity for redemption.
Overall, this is a well-crafted novel that ended a little too abruptly. The descriptions of the Nova Scotia coast provide an added dimension to the drama. This is my first exposure to this popular author and I intend to read more of her work.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
Over a twenty-plus year period, Sienna McKay experiences horrific physical and emotional trauma with strength and grace. After losing her first “perfect” love, she moves on to marry and have a family with Nate, who becomes obsessed with his restaurant at the expense of everything he holds dear. The dynamics of their marriage lay the groundwork for a tragedy as well as an opportunity for redemption.
Overall, this is a well-crafted novel that ended a little too abruptly. The descriptions of the Nova Scotia coast provide an added dimension to the drama. This is my first exposure to this popular author and I intend to read more of her work.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review will be posted on Amazon upon publication.
October 11, 2025
Wow! I finished this book in 24 hours as I could not put it down. To me, this was such a good book about life and what it will throw at you and how we handle our trauma. Sometimes we idolize others when we shouldn’t and sometimes we don’t value people we should.
I also loved how their marriage was portrayed because marriage is not always easy and this really dug into the many nuances of that whole exploring forgiveness in light of a spouses selfishness. Loved the ending! A definite must read!
I also loved how their marriage was portrayed because marriage is not always easy and this really dug into the many nuances of that whole exploring forgiveness in light of a spouses selfishness. Loved the ending! A definite must read!
October 7, 2025
This book tugged at my heart. I loved the setting and loved Sienna as a main character. She’s so relatable! This a love story for the current times. Packed with emotion, drama, and tough decisions, I was so emotional as I read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 20, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be by Julianne MacLean is the most beautiful contemporary novel that will lodge deep in your heart and soul. Every once in a while, a book comes along that profoundly impacts me – and this is that book. I know it will stay with me forever.
The action is in three main time periods – 1998, 2006 and 2025. These are pivotal moments in the lives of characters. They are the defining years. A life is bookmarked by two freak accidents – both have huge emotional impact for all those involved. We often wonder – why do bad things happen to good people? Sometimes there are just no answers but I was reminded of the Bible passage in Genesis 49 where God uses bad circumstances and flips it round to good.
You never forget your first love – especially if it has been ripped away. A character has had the big love of her life, and of her present love she says: “It doesn’t feel earth shattering. It’s a quieter kind of love.” It is a love on which lives and a family have been built – but are the foundations strong enough to weather the storms?
Personal dreams are good to have, to give you something to strive for, but not at the expense of today. “I spend too much time mapping out my future. As a result, I forget to enjoy the present.” Do not miss the present because the future is not guaranteed.
Parents should give their children wings to fly, and not tether them to their dreams, and therefore clipping their children’s wings. “I don’t want to disappoint my father. And therein lies the conflict.
We see that the mother is the lynchpin of her family. “She’s the centre of our family, the sturdy post we all cling to.” Without her, is there even a family unit? Or are they just individuals occupying the same space?
Marriages need to be worked at in order to bloom and grow. A work-life balance is important – or you may reach the end of your life, so poor that all you have is money. Our true riches are in the people with whom we build relationships.
A character is struggling with survivor’s guilt and PTSD. We see the role that dogs play in our lives to offer support. “He’s [Scooter the dog] never been trained as a service dog but that’s what he is to me… He’s the guardian of my soul, the protector of my heart… and I don’t know what I would do without him.” A good dog never dies but lives on in hearts.
Heaven is the setting for a beautiful scene that feels like a coming home as love lives there. There is the temptation to stay, but there are the voices of raw love and raw grief competing.
We witness the power of social media to build up or tear down. Trial by social media is wicked and cruel. We need to be careful what we post and what we listen to.
All the characters were wonderfully drawn, realistic and believable. I found it easy to empathise with all the lead characters.
What Tomorrow Will Be is a work of great beauty. The story is a powerful one. There is definitely an emotional pull on your heart as you read – tissues will be needed. You do not want to miss this book.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is in three main time periods – 1998, 2006 and 2025. These are pivotal moments in the lives of characters. They are the defining years. A life is bookmarked by two freak accidents – both have huge emotional impact for all those involved. We often wonder – why do bad things happen to good people? Sometimes there are just no answers but I was reminded of the Bible passage in Genesis 49 where God uses bad circumstances and flips it round to good.
You never forget your first love – especially if it has been ripped away. A character has had the big love of her life, and of her present love she says: “It doesn’t feel earth shattering. It’s a quieter kind of love.” It is a love on which lives and a family have been built – but are the foundations strong enough to weather the storms?
Personal dreams are good to have, to give you something to strive for, but not at the expense of today. “I spend too much time mapping out my future. As a result, I forget to enjoy the present.” Do not miss the present because the future is not guaranteed.
Parents should give their children wings to fly, and not tether them to their dreams, and therefore clipping their children’s wings. “I don’t want to disappoint my father. And therein lies the conflict.
We see that the mother is the lynchpin of her family. “She’s the centre of our family, the sturdy post we all cling to.” Without her, is there even a family unit? Or are they just individuals occupying the same space?
Marriages need to be worked at in order to bloom and grow. A work-life balance is important – or you may reach the end of your life, so poor that all you have is money. Our true riches are in the people with whom we build relationships.
A character is struggling with survivor’s guilt and PTSD. We see the role that dogs play in our lives to offer support. “He’s [Scooter the dog] never been trained as a service dog but that’s what he is to me… He’s the guardian of my soul, the protector of my heart… and I don’t know what I would do without him.” A good dog never dies but lives on in hearts.
Heaven is the setting for a beautiful scene that feels like a coming home as love lives there. There is the temptation to stay, but there are the voices of raw love and raw grief competing.
We witness the power of social media to build up or tear down. Trial by social media is wicked and cruel. We need to be careful what we post and what we listen to.
All the characters were wonderfully drawn, realistic and believable. I found it easy to empathise with all the lead characters.
What Tomorrow Will Be is a work of great beauty. The story is a powerful one. There is definitely an emotional pull on your heart as you read – tissues will be needed. You do not want to miss this book.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
October 17, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be: A Novel by Julianne MacLean. Lake Union Publishing, 2026.
I was hunting around for a book to hold my attention on a flight from Dublin to Halifax last week so was delighted to find one that I had not yet read by Julianne MacLean.
The book begins in 1998 when undergraduate student Sienna and her boyfriend Jacob acquire Scooter, a yellow lab puppy. This momentous day (for more than one reason) is one of a series of similar glimpses of Sienna’s life that give us the background information we need to understand her life with her husband, daughter and son in 2025.
Next we move ahead to a mild January day some eight months later as Sienna, Jacob and Scooter head out for a moderately challenging hike along an oceanside peninsula. Then we move ahead again, this time to Sienna’s interior design office about eight years later where she is joined by Scooter most workdays. This approach continues, and not at all choppy as it may seem from my description here- flow from one to the next is smooth
Throughout these, Sienna’s best friend is Jason’s sister Becky, always positive and supportive, even when Becky observes that Sienna works too hard.
There is quite a lot going on in this book, with its twists and turns, ups and downs and complex themes. Despite this, it was an incredibly easy read. I can be easily distracted by character inconsistencies (these will divert me down a rabbit hole of flipping back and forth) or any hints of inaccuracy in an historical detail or setting (which will send me to google for resolution). Although this book is set where I live, there were no such distractions.
I was especially struck near the end of the story by what I have come to think of as “collective hate”, or trial by social media, the phenomenon that moves people with no demonstrated knowledge, expertise or direct relationship with a situation to contribute vitriol and criticism to posts, essentially kicking a person (or organization) when they are down. The was a simple account of what developed, not at all preachy, nicely done.
This story was constantly engaging and beautifully written, with well developed, credible and consistent characters. I was captivated, started and finished it in just over five hours. Warmly recommended.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of What Tomorrow Will Be free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #WhatTomorrowWillBe #NetGalley.
I was hunting around for a book to hold my attention on a flight from Dublin to Halifax last week so was delighted to find one that I had not yet read by Julianne MacLean.
The book begins in 1998 when undergraduate student Sienna and her boyfriend Jacob acquire Scooter, a yellow lab puppy. This momentous day (for more than one reason) is one of a series of similar glimpses of Sienna’s life that give us the background information we need to understand her life with her husband, daughter and son in 2025.
Next we move ahead to a mild January day some eight months later as Sienna, Jacob and Scooter head out for a moderately challenging hike along an oceanside peninsula. Then we move ahead again, this time to Sienna’s interior design office about eight years later where she is joined by Scooter most workdays. This approach continues, and not at all choppy as it may seem from my description here- flow from one to the next is smooth
Throughout these, Sienna’s best friend is Jason’s sister Becky, always positive and supportive, even when Becky observes that Sienna works too hard.
There is quite a lot going on in this book, with its twists and turns, ups and downs and complex themes. Despite this, it was an incredibly easy read. I can be easily distracted by character inconsistencies (these will divert me down a rabbit hole of flipping back and forth) or any hints of inaccuracy in an historical detail or setting (which will send me to google for resolution). Although this book is set where I live, there were no such distractions.
I was especially struck near the end of the story by what I have come to think of as “collective hate”, or trial by social media, the phenomenon that moves people with no demonstrated knowledge, expertise or direct relationship with a situation to contribute vitriol and criticism to posts, essentially kicking a person (or organization) when they are down. The was a simple account of what developed, not at all preachy, nicely done.
This story was constantly engaging and beautifully written, with well developed, credible and consistent characters. I was captivated, started and finished it in just over five hours. Warmly recommended.
Disclosure: I received a review copy of What Tomorrow Will Be free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. #WhatTomorrowWillBe #NetGalley.
November 8, 2025
The novel begins in 1998, when Sienna MacKay, 19, has been in a relationship with Jacob, the love of her life and the older brother of her best friend Becky, for the past 2 years. Sienna and Jacob are both college students at the Manning School of Business in Nova Scotia, pursuing their dreams and looking ahead to all the future might hold for them as a couple. Until that day, Sienna accepted Jacob's invitation for a hike and picnic on Cape Split. The day that changed everything.
The book is divided into 4 parts: Part One – The Mountain; Part Two – Cape Split; Part Three – On the Edge Within; Part Four – The Power of Love; and concludes with an Epilogue. I appreciated how the story occasionally moved forward in time, with the current year clearly indicated, and that the POV was identified at the beginning of a chapter when changes occurred.
This was my 1st introduction to the author's writing, and I was captivated by the storyline. The way she crafted the characters and built tension kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't stop turning the pages, even as my eyes begged for sleep. The blend of emotion and intrigue made it impossible for me to put the book down. And now? I'm eager to explore more of her writing.
Questions for Discussion are available at the end of the novel.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to Julianne MacLean, NetGalley, and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.
The book is divided into 4 parts: Part One – The Mountain; Part Two – Cape Split; Part Three – On the Edge Within; Part Four – The Power of Love; and concludes with an Epilogue. I appreciated how the story occasionally moved forward in time, with the current year clearly indicated, and that the POV was identified at the beginning of a chapter when changes occurred.
This was my 1st introduction to the author's writing, and I was captivated by the storyline. The way she crafted the characters and built tension kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn't stop turning the pages, even as my eyes begged for sleep. The blend of emotion and intrigue made it impossible for me to put the book down. And now? I'm eager to explore more of her writing.
Questions for Discussion are available at the end of the novel.
Highly recommended.
Thank you to Julianne MacLean, NetGalley, and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.
October 14, 2025
Another great book from Julianne MacLean!
Sienna MacKay was a teenager who knew what she wanted - a career and to spend her life with Jacob, her true love. Unfortunately, life does not always give us what we want; Sienna finds that out the hard way. Years later, Sienna meets Nate who helps her love again. Married, with two kids, Sienna and Nate have drifted apart. A tragic accident forces them to take a long look at what they want from life and each other.
I really enjoyed this novel. At times a heartbreaking thriller, at other times a poignant love story, the book had a lot going for it. Sienna really resonated with me - middle aged, in the thick of motherhood, questioning her life choices. Nate, the quintessential workaholic, was a bit too overdone in my opinion, but still well developed. And Betsy was the perfect best friend, always there when needed and willing to jump in to help.
I think what made this book so good to me was that Sienna was not a perfect protagonist. Her feelings were messy, she was torn between comparing Nate with her first love, Jacob, she dreamed of what her life would be had she made different decisions. I think we all do that to some extent - the "what ifs" that creep into our minds. This book was a good reminder that our lives are not a straight line from birth to death, but a wandering path based on our decisions. It was affirming in many ways.
4 ⭐s from me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced copy of this novel. It's scheduled to be published on February 3, 2026.
Sienna MacKay was a teenager who knew what she wanted - a career and to spend her life with Jacob, her true love. Unfortunately, life does not always give us what we want; Sienna finds that out the hard way. Years later, Sienna meets Nate who helps her love again. Married, with two kids, Sienna and Nate have drifted apart. A tragic accident forces them to take a long look at what they want from life and each other.
I really enjoyed this novel. At times a heartbreaking thriller, at other times a poignant love story, the book had a lot going for it. Sienna really resonated with me - middle aged, in the thick of motherhood, questioning her life choices. Nate, the quintessential workaholic, was a bit too overdone in my opinion, but still well developed. And Betsy was the perfect best friend, always there when needed and willing to jump in to help.
I think what made this book so good to me was that Sienna was not a perfect protagonist. Her feelings were messy, she was torn between comparing Nate with her first love, Jacob, she dreamed of what her life would be had she made different decisions. I think we all do that to some extent - the "what ifs" that creep into our minds. This book was a good reminder that our lives are not a straight line from birth to death, but a wandering path based on our decisions. It was affirming in many ways.
4 ⭐s from me.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced copy of this novel. It's scheduled to be published on February 3, 2026.
November 8, 2025
Review – What Tomorrow Will Be by Julianne MacLean
Review by Shirley W. 11-6-25
The location is Nova Scotia. The protagonist, 19 year old, Sienna is hiking with her boyfriend Jacob. Life is great and she is crazy in love with him and he with her. He gave her a new puppy and they hike along with Scooter. There is an accident from a cliff and life suddenly changes. As the name reveals, life has a way of giving you challenges and wisdom that a young person has not yet achieved. After the accident Sienna has great success as a decorator and even owns her own company with it’s trials and successes. She marries a wonderful man and has two children, but the youthful, true love still has a presence in her life.
I could not put this book down! I read it in two days with enthusiasm. The story kept me on my toes and was truly a sensitive and refined love story that made me cry and find joy! There were moments of regret, hope and profound gratitude for Sienna as she worked her way through the many trials before her.
As author, Julianne MacLean continues the story with amazing clarity, kindness and the beautiful soul of a romance writer. Her style is most enjoyable!
I was grateful to be able to read this ARC and this is my honest review.
Review by Shirley W. 11-6-25
The location is Nova Scotia. The protagonist, 19 year old, Sienna is hiking with her boyfriend Jacob. Life is great and she is crazy in love with him and he with her. He gave her a new puppy and they hike along with Scooter. There is an accident from a cliff and life suddenly changes. As the name reveals, life has a way of giving you challenges and wisdom that a young person has not yet achieved. After the accident Sienna has great success as a decorator and even owns her own company with it’s trials and successes. She marries a wonderful man and has two children, but the youthful, true love still has a presence in her life.
I could not put this book down! I read it in two days with enthusiasm. The story kept me on my toes and was truly a sensitive and refined love story that made me cry and find joy! There were moments of regret, hope and profound gratitude for Sienna as she worked her way through the many trials before her.
As author, Julianne MacLean continues the story with amazing clarity, kindness and the beautiful soul of a romance writer. Her style is most enjoyable!
I was grateful to be able to read this ARC and this is my honest review.
November 2, 2025
Julianne MacLean’s What Tomorrow Will Be is a beautifully written, emotionally charged story that explores love, loss, and the quiet resilience of a woman rediscovering herself.
At just 19, Sienna MacKay believes she’s found her forever in Jacob. Their bond is unshakable—until a tragic accident during a hike changes everything. Sienna survives a devastating fall, but her life is forever altered.
Years later, Sienna has built a new life: a thriving interior design business, a loving husband named Nate, and two wonderful children. Nate is a celebrated chef and owner of one of the city’s most sought-after fine dining restaurants. But as his obsession with earning a Michelin star grows, his presence at home fades. Sienna, having sold her business to care for their family, begins to feel the weight of holding everything together alone. Her sacrifices go unnoticed, and she’s left questioning whether the marriage is worth saving.
This novel is filled with unexpected twists, emotional depth, and moments that tug at the heart. I was completely immersed in Sienna’s journey—her pain, her strength, and her search for meaning. It’s a story that stays with you long after the final page.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
At just 19, Sienna MacKay believes she’s found her forever in Jacob. Their bond is unshakable—until a tragic accident during a hike changes everything. Sienna survives a devastating fall, but her life is forever altered.
Years later, Sienna has built a new life: a thriving interior design business, a loving husband named Nate, and two wonderful children. Nate is a celebrated chef and owner of one of the city’s most sought-after fine dining restaurants. But as his obsession with earning a Michelin star grows, his presence at home fades. Sienna, having sold her business to care for their family, begins to feel the weight of holding everything together alone. Her sacrifices go unnoticed, and she’s left questioning whether the marriage is worth saving.
This novel is filled with unexpected twists, emotional depth, and moments that tug at the heart. I was completely immersed in Sienna’s journey—her pain, her strength, and her search for meaning. It’s a story that stays with you long after the final page.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
October 17, 2025
Sienna, after a life changing trauma, works hard to rebuild her life into something she can be comfortable with. Together with husband Nate, and children Amanda and Connor, life’s perfect right? Wrong.
As cracks begin to form in the marriage, Sienna has to work out what is more important to her and takes steps towards securing her future. And then, tragedy strikes again.
Is Nate as pure and innocent as he seems or is there something sinister hiding behind his façade?
This is a story about resilience. It shows us that like Sienna, we can overcome trauma. The author successfully shows this through Sienna and friend Becky, both well written and rounded characters. And Nate who suffers from a different type of trauma from his father.
I would have liked to have seen the unravelling of the truth behind the 2nd incident told with a little more suspense and mystery to heighten the reader’s anticipation. But overall, it was a good solid, entertaining read that I would recommend.
As cracks begin to form in the marriage, Sienna has to work out what is more important to her and takes steps towards securing her future. And then, tragedy strikes again.
Is Nate as pure and innocent as he seems or is there something sinister hiding behind his façade?
This is a story about resilience. It shows us that like Sienna, we can overcome trauma. The author successfully shows this through Sienna and friend Becky, both well written and rounded characters. And Nate who suffers from a different type of trauma from his father.
I would have liked to have seen the unravelling of the truth behind the 2nd incident told with a little more suspense and mystery to heighten the reader’s anticipation. But overall, it was a good solid, entertaining read that I would recommend.
December 1, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be
By: Juliann MacLean
Pub Date: Feb 3, 2026
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Tour: Suzy Approved Book Tours
I loved her last book All Our Beautiful Goodbyes, so I was thrilled to get an early copy of MacLean’s new one.
Her writing had me immersed in Sienna MacKay’s life. Sienna is nineteen and her life is full of love and she is working on a career, but after a tragic accident her life as she knew it changed instantly.
Later in life she is doing well with a designer job, wife and mother. Her husband Nate is a chef and wants to prove something and Sienna has been basically a single parent as they drift apart.
This novel will tug at your heartstrings and the belief in second chances. This novel will stay with me a long time. The tension, real life and some tragedy which can make you stronger and learning how to deal with grief. I highly recommend both the books I have read and I look forward to more.
By: Juliann MacLean
Pub Date: Feb 3, 2026
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Tour: Suzy Approved Book Tours
I loved her last book All Our Beautiful Goodbyes, so I was thrilled to get an early copy of MacLean’s new one.
Her writing had me immersed in Sienna MacKay’s life. Sienna is nineteen and her life is full of love and she is working on a career, but after a tragic accident her life as she knew it changed instantly.
Later in life she is doing well with a designer job, wife and mother. Her husband Nate is a chef and wants to prove something and Sienna has been basically a single parent as they drift apart.
This novel will tug at your heartstrings and the belief in second chances. This novel will stay with me a long time. The tension, real life and some tragedy which can make you stronger and learning how to deal with grief. I highly recommend both the books I have read and I look forward to more.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lovely story with great life lessons. 3.5 stars
Sienna lost her first boyfriend in a tragic accident when they were teenagers. She never thought she could find another love like it, but eventually ran into Nate. They built a great life together, mutual respect, two great kids and a business. But as often happens, life gets in the way and priorities get shuffled, leaving Sienna feeling less than. Shortly thereafter another tragedy hits, but this one comes with clarity and insight.
I liked this story and would encourage readers to go in with an open mind. There is one part that might be beyond for some, but it is integral to the story, so just go with it.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Sienna lost her first boyfriend in a tragic accident when they were teenagers. She never thought she could find another love like it, but eventually ran into Nate. They built a great life together, mutual respect, two great kids and a business. But as often happens, life gets in the way and priorities get shuffled, leaving Sienna feeling less than. Shortly thereafter another tragedy hits, but this one comes with clarity and insight.
I liked this story and would encourage readers to go in with an open mind. There is one part that might be beyond for some, but it is integral to the story, so just go with it.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
November 16, 2025
" No one is perfect. Some of us get banged up pretty badly in life, and It's not easy to recover."
"Life is messy. There's no such thing as perfect."
Julianne MacLean is a master of writing about complicated love and loss. What Tomorrow Will Be brings together two flawed characters, Sienna and Nate with difficult pasts. They must deal with and ocercome their separate histories. The characters who steal the scenes are the dogs - Scooter, Dolly and Oscar. As is most of Ms MacLean's novels Nova Scotia is the setting which the author describes so vividly that reader can place themselves there. Nova Scotia has become a place that I would love to visit. Highly recommend this multi-faceted novel. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC!
"Life is messy. There's no such thing as perfect."
Julianne MacLean is a master of writing about complicated love and loss. What Tomorrow Will Be brings together two flawed characters, Sienna and Nate with difficult pasts. They must deal with and ocercome their separate histories. The characters who steal the scenes are the dogs - Scooter, Dolly and Oscar. As is most of Ms MacLean's novels Nova Scotia is the setting which the author describes so vividly that reader can place themselves there. Nova Scotia has become a place that I would love to visit. Highly recommend this multi-faceted novel. Thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the ARC!
November 27, 2025
This is the third book of Ms. MacLean’s I have read, and I obviously expected a little bit of historical fiction in the story, and it was not that. It was a past and present contemporary romance/women’s fiction, and I was here for it!
Sienna met her true love young and was on her way to the life of her dreams when tragedy strikes. We watch her come up from utter heartbreak and fear to finally fall for Nate and they have a beautiful life together.
But once ambitions cloud what is truly important, yet another tragedy hits leaving the characters in a state of finding forgiveness and redemption. This story is such an incredibly relatable one. It’s so easy to trudge through life and forget what is truly important and assuming those you love will always be here. Juliane MacLean gave us a beautiful story with relatable characters. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for her readers next!
Sienna met her true love young and was on her way to the life of her dreams when tragedy strikes. We watch her come up from utter heartbreak and fear to finally fall for Nate and they have a beautiful life together.
But once ambitions cloud what is truly important, yet another tragedy hits leaving the characters in a state of finding forgiveness and redemption. This story is such an incredibly relatable one. It’s so easy to trudge through life and forget what is truly important and assuming those you love will always be here. Juliane MacLean gave us a beautiful story with relatable characters. I can’t wait to see what she has in store for her readers next!
October 16, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be by new to me author Julianne MacLean, published by Lake Union Publishing is hands down my favorite read in 2025.
An heartwrenchingly beautiful story about love, loss, healing, family and all its relationships and not least about second chances. A warm story with thriller elements that gives all the feels and made me binge read the book cover to cover in one single sitting.
Sienna and Nate are flawed characters, they're honest and I could so easily connect with them. I loved their struggles, their love, their heas.
I recommend this gem of a story, 5 stars.
An heartwrenchingly beautiful story about love, loss, healing, family and all its relationships and not least about second chances. A warm story with thriller elements that gives all the feels and made me binge read the book cover to cover in one single sitting.
Sienna and Nate are flawed characters, they're honest and I could so easily connect with them. I loved their struggles, their love, their heas.
I recommend this gem of a story, 5 stars.
November 8, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be is my second Julianne MacLean novel. I loved A Fire Sparkling so I was super excited to dive in. This is a heavy story of grief, rebuilding life after tragedy, hardships of marriage, and overcoming unthinkable challenges. While I wasn’t as captivated by the story this time around, I did enjoy many elements. I just found it to be too slow moving at times.
As a dog lover, I do have to say that I adored the way Julianne shined a light on how healing and special the love of a dog is. ♥️
3.5 rounded up to 4⭐️
As a dog lover, I do have to say that I adored the way Julianne shined a light on how healing and special the love of a dog is. ♥️
3.5 rounded up to 4⭐️
November 11, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be by Julianne MacLean is a wonderful novel I really enjoyed.
Sienna lost everything at nineteen after a devastating accident.
Many years later, she has a wonderful life as a mother and wife with a great career as a designer. When things might not be so perfect, things start to fall apart and her past comes back.
The story is set on the Coast of Nova Scotia.
The characters are well written and fleshed out.
The story is emotional and perfectly paced. A story about past, present, and choices that we make.
Sienna lost everything at nineteen after a devastating accident.
Many years later, she has a wonderful life as a mother and wife with a great career as a designer. When things might not be so perfect, things start to fall apart and her past comes back.
The story is set on the Coast of Nova Scotia.
The characters are well written and fleshed out.
The story is emotional and perfectly paced. A story about past, present, and choices that we make.
November 16, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book.
Nineteen-year-old Sienna is very happy and comfortable in her life - with studies, a boyfriend, and a promising future. A tragedy changes all of that in the blink of an eye. It takes years for Sienna to start moving past her loss and finding herself comfortable with someone else. She meets Nate who is ready to take a big jump with his own future and she finds herself right beside him encouraging him. Their relationship grows and the story expands on deep love, passions, and what sacrifices they are willing to take to be truly happy.
Nineteen-year-old Sienna is very happy and comfortable in her life - with studies, a boyfriend, and a promising future. A tragedy changes all of that in the blink of an eye. It takes years for Sienna to start moving past her loss and finding herself comfortable with someone else. She meets Nate who is ready to take a big jump with his own future and she finds herself right beside him encouraging him. Their relationship grows and the story expands on deep love, passions, and what sacrifices they are willing to take to be truly happy.
December 5, 2025
“No one is perfect. Some of us get banged up pretty badly in life, and it’s not easy to recover….It’s how we learn and grow.”
Sienna tragically loses her boyfriend Jacob who is the love of her life in an horrible accident at Cape Split. The day that changed everything for Sienna.
Years later she meets Nate and starts rebuilding her life.
I was completely invested in this beautiful, emotional story of Sienna’s journey. Her search for meaning through pain, strength, challenges and wisdom as we age.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
Sienna tragically loses her boyfriend Jacob who is the love of her life in an horrible accident at Cape Split. The day that changed everything for Sienna.
Years later she meets Nate and starts rebuilding her life.
I was completely invested in this beautiful, emotional story of Sienna’s journey. Her search for meaning through pain, strength, challenges and wisdom as we age.
Thank you NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
October 17, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be is a wonderfully revealing and sensitive story of a marriage. Julianne MacLean’s story reveals how the many facets of her character’s strengths, fears, past relationships and desires influence the choices, challenges and compromises couples must make as they navigate their together lives. It’s as tender as it is raw…and absolutely begs to be read in one sitting. I voluntarily reviewed it copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.
November 19, 2025
This is the BEST LOVE story I have read in a very long time. It will take you back in time to your first love and the excitement of your future together and how two hearts beat as one. Fate however throws a curve ball into their dreams. This beautiful story is about love that embraces many twists and turns. Families are left to stand strong for one an other and let their hearts and love guide them.
This book was fantastic!🫶
This book was fantastic!🫶
October 23, 2025
What Tomorrow Will Be is a well told story that keeps you invested the entire time. Just when you think the story is about to start dragging you get another twist in the story. It was a great book with likable characters.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story hooked me right away. The characters, the very lovable dogs, the love, and the loss. Overall the book is a reminder that loss does not have to be the end, but it does take a lot of strength to get through it. That being said, it also shows the beautiful friendship Sienna has with Becky and how much love and respect Sienna’s children have for her. She was definitely a rock for them. I truly loved hearing all their stories.
Thank you to the Lake Union Publishing and Net Galley for the ARC of this book on exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to the Lake Union Publishing and Net Galley for the ARC of this book on exchange for my honest review.
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