What do you think?
Rate this book
Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 01:36:33
10 copies available
U.S. only
Maybe Tomorrow I'll Know: A Novel
Not yet published
Expected 7 Apr 26Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 01:36:33
10 copies available
U.S. only
A boy is trapped in a time loop—and in a girl’s body—in this heartfelt and wryly humorous love story.
Laurie wakes up in a girl’s body with no memories, driving down an unknown highway, and promptly crashes the car. Thankfully, a handsome stranger named Gideon comes to his rescue. It’s awkward for Laurie to pretend that he’s a girl, but at least this is the scariest thing he’ll ever have to deal with.
Except the next morning—and every morning after—Laurie wakes up barreling down that same highway. He re-meets Gideon every day, with no idea who this girl whose body he’s inhabiting even is. Only one thing is he’s on a countdown. Laurie has been given only one hundred days to get back in the right body, break the time loop, and not fall for Gideon while he does it.
Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know is a funny, deeply felt exploration of love, identity, and what it means to move through the world in a body that is truly yours.
Laurie wakes up in a girl’s body with no memories, driving down an unknown highway, and promptly crashes the car. Thankfully, a handsome stranger named Gideon comes to his rescue. It’s awkward for Laurie to pretend that he’s a girl, but at least this is the scariest thing he’ll ever have to deal with.
Except the next morning—and every morning after—Laurie wakes up barreling down that same highway. He re-meets Gideon every day, with no idea who this girl whose body he’s inhabiting even is. Only one thing is he’s on a countdown. Laurie has been given only one hundred days to get back in the right body, break the time loop, and not fall for Gideon while he does it.
Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know is a funny, deeply felt exploration of love, identity, and what it means to move through the world in a body that is truly yours.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 7, 2026
5 people are currently reading
6286 people want to read
About the author
Alex Ritany
4 books70 followersAlex is a Canadian artist, musician, and YA author of DEAD GIRLS DON’T SAY SORRY from Knopf BFYR and I WISH YOU WOULDN’T. When they’re not at the keyboard, you can find them hosting tabletop game night, working on illustrations, or at their other keyboard composing music.
Alex’s love of art, music, and the western Canadian landscape regularly spills into their writing, which tends to feature complex friendships, twisty romances, and explorations of queerness. They live in Calgary with their roommate, cat, and dice collection.
Alex’s love of art, music, and the western Canadian landscape regularly spills into their writing, which tends to feature complex friendships, twisty romances, and explorations of queerness. They live in Calgary with their roommate, cat, and dice collection.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
✰ 3 stars ✰
I thought this had a beautiful message, which just took very long to get there. While I also understand the necessity of it, to depict the realism of how such decisions and choices are not and cannot be spur of the moment, it does also affect one's reading. And to have numerous chapters dedicated to too many of the days of the countdown in the time loop did get taxing.
Laurie's struggles and growth was expressed in a sincere and cathartic light. A confused boy waking up every morning in a girl's body, unaware of how he'll get out of it. One where even the mystery behind their unknown identity was gripping as slight memories emerged as truths were pieced together from each time loop. ⏲️ A reckoning towards an eventual fallout that would either save them or destroy them. It's a nerve-wrecking journey. It's a gut-wrenching process. Waiting for a tomorrow that may never come.
“Even when I’m not looking for Gideon, I find him.”
As we get glimpses into the one whose body they inhabit, I could connect the dots, but it's sad to see that it still takes time for Laurie to solve a jigsaw puzzle, except I don’t know what the final picture is supposed to be. 😟 But, at least Laurie was not always alone. Gideon was a welcome reprieve, an honest friend, a helping hand that gave Laurie the strength to be brave.
The Author's Note is an important one, because even though I felt the last chapter was unfair, I also agree with it. It gives us hope not to lose hope; that even when one takes that fateful very scary plunge, it may not be the answer to escape, but it leaves you with a profound feeling of being released. I know that sounds like a double entendre, but when you read it, you do understand.
“It is mine, is the thing.
Mine, and still wrong.”
I know I cannot relate, but my heart goes out to everyone who does. That scene with Laurie's parents was heartbreaking. It was a pivotal buildup, highlighted even in the printing that really set the tone. Please don't ever forget to be a loving and caring parent. 🥺 Love should not come with a price or forced expectations. It is such an unsettling fear, and to live with that extra burden and shame of being true to yourself is unimaginable.
My niggles may be insignificant, but sadly it did dampen the overall experience. I read it one go, and the writing soothed my palette, and was fitting for its Young Adult target audience. However, a few inclusions of representation did not quite feel fitting; they were not impactful, but felt a forced inclusion. 😮💨 Too much emphasis on the side characters' drama. It was exhausting to the point that going around and around in circles could have easily been cut out - in both Laurie and Gideon's friend circles.
“I see you.” His grip tightens around me. “I’m sorry, I see you now.”
Gideon was special. He was not perfect, but he was perfect in how he cared deeply for Laurie. I do wish it could have toned down the various instances in which their days reoccurred, but I suppose it was the only way to show their relationship develop, as not an instant, nor a slow-burn, just a believable bond of love and trust. 🫂 That heartfelt honest intimacy Laurie so desperately yearned for with that pitch perfect understanding of what was never needed to be said.
And for that this is an important read; one that certainly reminds us the importance of empathy. It's a bittersweet but poignant look that I hope in this world that still shows so much hatred, people will still remember that it costs very little if nothing at all to be kind and accepting to those who truly deserve it. ❤️🩹
*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
“Beauty creeps in slowly, but you have to make space for it on purpose.”
I thought this had a beautiful message, which just took very long to get there. While I also understand the necessity of it, to depict the realism of how such decisions and choices are not and cannot be spur of the moment, it does also affect one's reading. And to have numerous chapters dedicated to too many of the days of the countdown in the time loop did get taxing.
Laurie's struggles and growth was expressed in a sincere and cathartic light. A confused boy waking up every morning in a girl's body, unaware of how he'll get out of it. One where even the mystery behind their unknown identity was gripping as slight memories emerged as truths were pieced together from each time loop. ⏲️ A reckoning towards an eventual fallout that would either save them or destroy them. It's a nerve-wrecking journey. It's a gut-wrenching process. Waiting for a tomorrow that may never come.
“Even when I’m not looking for Gideon, I find him.”
As we get glimpses into the one whose body they inhabit, I could connect the dots, but it's sad to see that it still takes time for Laurie to solve a jigsaw puzzle, except I don’t know what the final picture is supposed to be. 😟 But, at least Laurie was not always alone. Gideon was a welcome reprieve, an honest friend, a helping hand that gave Laurie the strength to be brave.
The Author's Note is an important one, because even though I felt the last chapter was unfair, I also agree with it. It gives us hope not to lose hope; that even when one takes that fateful very scary plunge, it may not be the answer to escape, but it leaves you with a profound feeling of being released. I know that sounds like a double entendre, but when you read it, you do understand.
“It is mine, is the thing.
Mine, and still wrong.”
I know I cannot relate, but my heart goes out to everyone who does. That scene with Laurie's parents was heartbreaking. It was a pivotal buildup, highlighted even in the printing that really set the tone. Please don't ever forget to be a loving and caring parent. 🥺 Love should not come with a price or forced expectations. It is such an unsettling fear, and to live with that extra burden and shame of being true to yourself is unimaginable.
My niggles may be insignificant, but sadly it did dampen the overall experience. I read it one go, and the writing soothed my palette, and was fitting for its Young Adult target audience. However, a few inclusions of representation did not quite feel fitting; they were not impactful, but felt a forced inclusion. 😮💨 Too much emphasis on the side characters' drama. It was exhausting to the point that going around and around in circles could have easily been cut out - in both Laurie and Gideon's friend circles.
“I see you.” His grip tightens around me. “I’m sorry, I see you now.”
Gideon was special. He was not perfect, but he was perfect in how he cared deeply for Laurie. I do wish it could have toned down the various instances in which their days reoccurred, but I suppose it was the only way to show their relationship develop, as not an instant, nor a slow-burn, just a believable bond of love and trust. 🫂 That heartfelt honest intimacy Laurie so desperately yearned for with that pitch perfect understanding of what was never needed to be said.
And for that this is an important read; one that certainly reminds us the importance of empathy. It's a bittersweet but poignant look that I hope in this world that still shows so much hatred, people will still remember that it costs very little if nothing at all to be kind and accepting to those who truly deserve it. ❤️🩹
*Thank you to Edelweiss for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
October 29, 2024
look okay i know this isn’t out yet so i haven’t even read the polished version yet but GENUINELY. book of my soul. all you transmascs out there are gonna lose your shit about this book (in a good way). i was inconsolable for about five days afterwards
March 22, 2026
{3.5 stars}
Thanks to WW Norton and Norton Young Readers for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions below are my own.
Laurie wakes up in the middle of a strange highway in a speeding car in a body that is not his own, quickly realizing he must live the same day over and over. He spends his days trying to figure out who the girl who owns his body is and quickly finds himself drawn to the townspeople of the small town he wakes up in each day. Not quite sure what puzzles he needs to solve to get out of the time loop.
I have, for the most part, stopped requesting YA fiction. Now that I'm in my 40's I struggle to relate to catty, immature teenagers. But once in a while, a concept grabs me and I make an exception. This was one of those, I love a good time travel story. I have to say I was impressed with the complexity of the teens. It also explores an angle that is relevant to youth today that was not necessarily a major issue in my day, gender identity. I thought it was handled well and definitely provided food for thought.
Thanks to WW Norton and Norton Young Readers for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions below are my own.
Laurie wakes up in the middle of a strange highway in a speeding car in a body that is not his own, quickly realizing he must live the same day over and over. He spends his days trying to figure out who the girl who owns his body is and quickly finds himself drawn to the townspeople of the small town he wakes up in each day. Not quite sure what puzzles he needs to solve to get out of the time loop.
I have, for the most part, stopped requesting YA fiction. Now that I'm in my 40's I struggle to relate to catty, immature teenagers. But once in a while, a concept grabs me and I make an exception. This was one of those, I love a good time travel story. I have to say I was impressed with the complexity of the teens. It also explores an angle that is relevant to youth today that was not necessarily a major issue in my day, gender identity. I thought it was handled well and definitely provided food for thought.
January 23, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley and Norton Young Readers for sending me this ARC!
“Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know” is a very surprising novel. This is the first novel I have read that has a unique representation of finding yourself: a time loop. Through Laurie’s repeated experiences with love, acceptance, and truth, I understand the depths of identity and change. I can understand the feeling of being in a body that is unfamiliar to you and how the truth can change your life in many ways. I wouldn’t characterize the change of events as plot twists, though. They were more of steps toward the truth and an unveiling of what lay beyond Laurie’s visions, which I loved. There were many details I adored: Gideon (love him so much) and his scenes with Laurie, the realistic dialogue between Laurie and his loved ones, the alluring hooks and mystery, and finally, the epilogue. The epilogue was quite vague, but it defined the meaning of “tomorrow.” Tomorrow is defined by Laurie’s fears, by Laurie’s love, and by Laurie’s inability to predict. The epilogue was a fresh start, a reminder to welcome tomorrow and the changes that come along with it. (Of course, the faint familiarity between Laurie and Gideon still almost made me cry). Overall, “Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know” is an amazing and raw novel—I would recommend it to anyone!
“Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know” is a very surprising novel. This is the first novel I have read that has a unique representation of finding yourself: a time loop. Through Laurie’s repeated experiences with love, acceptance, and truth, I understand the depths of identity and change. I can understand the feeling of being in a body that is unfamiliar to you and how the truth can change your life in many ways. I wouldn’t characterize the change of events as plot twists, though. They were more of steps toward the truth and an unveiling of what lay beyond Laurie’s visions, which I loved. There were many details I adored: Gideon (love him so much) and his scenes with Laurie, the realistic dialogue between Laurie and his loved ones, the alluring hooks and mystery, and finally, the epilogue. The epilogue was quite vague, but it defined the meaning of “tomorrow.” Tomorrow is defined by Laurie’s fears, by Laurie’s love, and by Laurie’s inability to predict. The epilogue was a fresh start, a reminder to welcome tomorrow and the changes that come along with it. (Of course, the faint familiarity between Laurie and Gideon still almost made me cry). Overall, “Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know” is an amazing and raw novel—I would recommend it to anyone!
Review of advance copy received from Author
HEAR YE HEAR YE! MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR APRIL! I feel like I’m the town crier for this book and I will continue to ring my silly little bell and hoot and holler about it because it really is that wonderful. Will be tucking my ARC copy of this book gently into my bookshelf with a kiss on the head goodnight.
The concept and hook of this book is so unbelievably clever and such an immensely tender, smart, and empathetic lens into what it’s like to be trans. I have no doubt this book will deeply touch any and all people, but particularly important for kids figuring out who they are in this crazy world, even (and especially) when it can be incredibly scary. PLUS you get a time loop and romance and GIDEON?! HELLO?! It had me down bad for Nanton. NANTON!!!
On top of it all, as usual, Alex is immensely talented at capturing the spirit of YA & making me giggle/blush/punch the wall when my beloved characters don’t kiss when I want them to. It’s a masterclass in split perspectives, pacing, dialogue, and humour.
The concept and hook of this book is so unbelievably clever and such an immensely tender, smart, and empathetic lens into what it’s like to be trans. I have no doubt this book will deeply touch any and all people, but particularly important for kids figuring out who they are in this crazy world, even (and especially) when it can be incredibly scary. PLUS you get a time loop and romance and GIDEON?! HELLO?! It had me down bad for Nanton. NANTON!!!
On top of it all, as usual, Alex is immensely talented at capturing the spirit of YA & making me giggle/blush/punch the wall when my beloved characters don’t kiss when I want them to. It’s a masterclass in split perspectives, pacing, dialogue, and humour.
December 18, 2025
Wow 🤯 just wow. This book is amazing. I don’t even know what to say, it’s left me speechless. I read this in one sitting because the story just pulled me in. I needed to know the ending. Also that ending was perfect. I felt for Laurie, and can understand the over religious parents who just wouldn’t understand. And for someone who had to leave to find herself, I can understand why Lawrence and Laurie needed to leave! Also Gideon is just everything!! 😍😍
* I was lucky enough to win this book through the Goodreads giveaways. *
* I was lucky enough to win this book through the Goodreads giveaways. *
January 13, 2026
This is the first book that I’ve read which takes place within a time loop, and I’m not sure if it’s this reason that took me a while to get into it. I did struggle at the beginning with the repetitiveness but once I got into it, about 20% through, I was hooked. I love the idea of this book, however I do believe the plot twist about the main character was blatantly obvious from the get go, I wonder if this was the intention? For this reason,I can only give this book 3 stars although that is not to say I did not enjoy parts of it greatly!
April 8, 2025
this is and most likely will remain my favorite book of all time. i finished reading it on a flight home from visiting my parents on 0 hours of sleep and something genuinely shifted in my universe. it is the perfect book to me. i can't believe i forgot to review it until now. when i have a physical copy of it in my hands i'm going to start sleeping with it like a teddy bear.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This book felt like a warm hug. As someone in the LGBTQ+ community, I really connected with its affirming message and how it shows the long, sometimes painful journey of figuring out who you are and learning to live that truth. There were moments that straight-up brought me to tears, just because books like this are so important. Seeing these experiences on the page felt validating in a way that still feels rare.
I was totally hooked at the start, but the middle lost me a little. The repetition, especially with the countdown element, got a bit tedious and my attention drifted. That said, the story pulled me back in by the end, and I finished feeling really emotionally attached.
I loved Laurie as a character. His frustration, confusion, quirks, and growing self-awareness felt so real. I loved how he could be so certain about some things, like hockey and his feelings for Gideon, while still quietly knowing who he really was. Gideon was great too. He was warm, accepting, and honest, but still dealing with his own stuff. I appreciated all the LGBTQ+ representation and the idea of a “village,” though at times it felt a bit forced. On the other hand, the less than affirming characters felt realistic and added real emotional weight.
The writing worked for a YA audience, though I got a little lost in some of the dialogue and small talk here and there. I really loved the Groundhog Day meets Freaky Friday element. It was such a clever way to show what it might feel like to be transgender, carrying all that weight, hiding out of fear, and still longing to be seen.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this as a YA read, especially for LGBTQ+ teens, but also for anyone who wants to better understand the trans experience. Books like this matter, and I really wish I had one like this growing up
* Thank to the publisher for the DRC via NetGalley for an honest review.
I was totally hooked at the start, but the middle lost me a little. The repetition, especially with the countdown element, got a bit tedious and my attention drifted. That said, the story pulled me back in by the end, and I finished feeling really emotionally attached.
I loved Laurie as a character. His frustration, confusion, quirks, and growing self-awareness felt so real. I loved how he could be so certain about some things, like hockey and his feelings for Gideon, while still quietly knowing who he really was. Gideon was great too. He was warm, accepting, and honest, but still dealing with his own stuff. I appreciated all the LGBTQ+ representation and the idea of a “village,” though at times it felt a bit forced. On the other hand, the less than affirming characters felt realistic and added real emotional weight.
The writing worked for a YA audience, though I got a little lost in some of the dialogue and small talk here and there. I really loved the Groundhog Day meets Freaky Friday element. It was such a clever way to show what it might feel like to be transgender, carrying all that weight, hiding out of fear, and still longing to be seen.
Overall, I would absolutely recommend this as a YA read, especially for LGBTQ+ teens, but also for anyone who wants to better understand the trans experience. Books like this matter, and I really wish I had one like this growing up
* Thank to the publisher for the DRC via NetGalley for an honest review.
Want to read
May 12, 2025"A YA romance with a body swap twist pitched as If I See You Again Tomorrow meets Every Day. Laurie wakes up in a girl's body with no memories, only to discover he's stuck in a time loop with 100 days to figure out whose body he's in and how to break the loop—all while inconveniently falling in love with a boy who forgets him at the end of each day."
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Maybe tomorrow I’ll know by Alex Ritany, someone is driving down the road and realizes their hands don’t look familiar nor does the face in the rearview mirror and before they know it they’re crashing their car into a ditch. This is the first time they need Gideon in a small town called Nanette. Unbeknownst to them this is just the first day of many we do learn she goes by Laurie because that is the first name that popped in her head she also learned she has 100 days to fix change or come up with the resolution so she can have her tomorrow but what it is and how to accomplish it baffles her. In the meanwhile she continues to see Gideon on every go round either by chance or by purpose and assume falling in love with him. She also gets to know the local gas station owner a person named Tinney There’s also another POV with Val the daughter of a preacher and his wife whose brother has ghosted their parents and although Val tries to be the perfect daughter dating the perfect guy being the best at her sport hockey but soon that disguise becomes claustrophobic and she feels as if she cannot do it anymore. Back in the net Lori is trying to help Gideon with his problems and even finds a way to be friend his sister Jade who she learns has problems of her own. The longer she’s there the more she gets to know herself and the town that to every day Sees her as a stranger . Can Lori find out who she really is and at the same time save Gideon and her friends? let me just say I really couldn’t wait to read this book that is why I have read this so early it says in the summary that aboy wakes up and the girls body and tries to learn to cope with that. Would my antique brain I thought it was going to be exactly that a girl is in a boy‘s body while the boy tries to figure out how to live like a girl but no this book is much more layer than that it’s no slapstick OMG I’m a masculine boy trying to figure out how to be a girl this book was brilliant especially the end the end was awesome I loved it so much. Towards the end of the book I kept thinking things that I won’t say cause it would ruin it but when the end came I was like OMG theres nothing more humbling than some good hard truths and the epilogue of this book made it that much more amazing. this is where the problem comes in. Not only is every friend they have in this book lesbians gay transgendered or whatever the heterosexual people in the book are up to no good planting drugs being horrible parents etc the other thing I didn’t like about this book as I know people have every right to be who they are because no one can be you better than you and no one knows what makes you feel loved and safe more than you do but I am talking about someone in this book comes out to their parents and all they care about is telling them their truth there’s no commentary on how this is going to make their parents feel it’s only about how their parents are gonna feel about them and not that you’re erasing every dream those parents had for that child every scenario the head of them in the future is now gone and even if parents support their child in a trans position or not they still are losing the child they thought they had. I know saying this people are going to say I do not support the LGBTQ community and you could say that go right ahead I think people have every right to be who they are absolutely I just think people are so defensive when it comes to this they’re not even charitable enough to acknowledge that regardless it is going to hurt the parents and or the people that love them even if they support them it just feels so selfish to me I mean if they love you they will come around or be there from the beginning but if you love them you would understand that some measurement it isn’t going to be a happy come to Jesus moment. this is still a really awesome book with a brilliant ending so kudos to the author I just wish he would perpetrate straight people as kind and generous as he does those from the LGBTQ plus community. #NetGalley, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview,
November 30, 2025
(Advance copy received at NCTE conference)
Alex Ritany’s YA novel, Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know, is rather unique - both in plot direction and what genre it belongs to. To best categorise this novel is to attach the label of a drama as its genre, one that includes the standard YA conventions within, the likes of coming of age themes, family drama, romance, and relationships central to the story and storytelling. Yet the story never affixes it to any of these like a romance or coming of age would, instead centralising the plot and said conventions around its overlying mystery, not quite structured enough to earn a thriller title, but still a story that revolves around solving a mystery, and getting to know the main character.
In post, it makes a lot of sense why the story takes this unconventional approach of writing what is best described as a drama/thriller, but whilst you’re reading it, it feels like a “good” YA novel. It reads like a slow burn, and the book blends subdued versions thriller reveals alongside overt romance and drama conventions of a YA novel. It's a page-turner, the obvious countdown and the slow reveal of information alongside the story developing overall a really fun story.
The main duo that we follow are interesting characters, both characters with evolving plots that eventually intertwine and who share enjoyable interactions with one another. I largely enjoyed their romance and their characters (especially our main character), who I felt were perfect for the novel, and perfect for readers. I would hesitate to praise the extended cast the same, as they feel as good as YA characters can be. Most of the extended cast I felt lacked any clear conclusion to their character arcs that the story prompted, despite each having intriguing characters and promising plot lines. However, despite the lack of conclusion, they still satisfy, intriguing and complex on screen (or I guess page, lol?), despite certain characters getting discarded as the story moves on.
A simplified description of the novel is that it is a book where the main character is given a chance to “right their wrongs” under unknown mystical circumstances. This framework, is applied to a YA novel, where the book overall satisfies in both plot and main characters, entertaining readers whilst incorporating a wonderfully diverse cast of characters.
Overall, a really enjoyable novel for YA readers!
Alex Ritany’s YA novel, Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know, is rather unique - both in plot direction and what genre it belongs to. To best categorise this novel is to attach the label of a drama as its genre, one that includes the standard YA conventions within, the likes of coming of age themes, family drama, romance, and relationships central to the story and storytelling. Yet the story never affixes it to any of these like a romance or coming of age would, instead centralising the plot and said conventions around its overlying mystery, not quite structured enough to earn a thriller title, but still a story that revolves around solving a mystery, and getting to know the main character.
In post, it makes a lot of sense why the story takes this unconventional approach of writing what is best described as a drama/thriller, but whilst you’re reading it, it feels like a “good” YA novel. It reads like a slow burn, and the book blends subdued versions thriller reveals alongside overt romance and drama conventions of a YA novel. It's a page-turner, the obvious countdown and the slow reveal of information alongside the story developing overall a really fun story.
The main duo that we follow are interesting characters, both characters with evolving plots that eventually intertwine and who share enjoyable interactions with one another. I largely enjoyed their romance and their characters (especially our main character), who I felt were perfect for the novel, and perfect for readers. I would hesitate to praise the extended cast the same, as they feel as good as YA characters can be. Most of the extended cast I felt lacked any clear conclusion to their character arcs that the story prompted, despite each having intriguing characters and promising plot lines. However, despite the lack of conclusion, they still satisfy, intriguing and complex on screen (or I guess page, lol?), despite certain characters getting discarded as the story moves on.
A simplified description of the novel is that it is a book where the main character is given a chance to “right their wrongs” under unknown mystical circumstances. This framework, is applied to a YA novel, where the book overall satisfies in both plot and main characters, entertaining readers whilst incorporating a wonderfully diverse cast of characters.
Overall, a really enjoyable novel for YA readers!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know” was not quite what I was expecting after reading the teaser. With Laurie waking up in a girl’s body (Valerie) and reliving the same calendar day over and over, I expected the story would focus more on the discomfort of being a boy in a girl’s body and the practical aspects of that dilemma— clothes, makeup, hormones, societal expectations, etc. However, that is not how the author incorporates the transgender aspect of the story. And I am glad the story was not what I expected because I think the book is better for the approach the author took.
The time loop concept was an interesting one, especially once some of the actions that Laurie took remained permanent instead of resetting each time the day was experienced again, and once Gideon became caught in the time loop and recognized that he was reliving the same day over again as well. I was glad that the story not only gave Laurie a second chance but also allowed Gideon’s future to be altered in a positive way. I enjoyed the evolution in their friendship/relationship. It was also interesting to see what the author had them do (where they traveled, how they spent their time, etc.) on days they were not actively trying to figure out how to get out of the time loop.
The story kept me guessing. Laurie believes he has somehow switched bodies with Valerie and is trying to figure out who he really is so he can find the real Valerie and somehow switch back. I thought I knew who Laurie was going to be, but I was wrong. The truth of Valerie/Laurie was even better.
I appreciated the overarching message about the importance of self-acceptance and living authentically, along with the recognition of how hard that can be, especially when significant people in your life are not accepting.
The time loop concept was an interesting one, especially once some of the actions that Laurie took remained permanent instead of resetting each time the day was experienced again, and once Gideon became caught in the time loop and recognized that he was reliving the same day over again as well. I was glad that the story not only gave Laurie a second chance but also allowed Gideon’s future to be altered in a positive way. I enjoyed the evolution in their friendship/relationship. It was also interesting to see what the author had them do (where they traveled, how they spent their time, etc.) on days they were not actively trying to figure out how to get out of the time loop.
The story kept me guessing. Laurie believes he has somehow switched bodies with Valerie and is trying to figure out who he really is so he can find the real Valerie and somehow switch back. I thought I knew who Laurie was going to be, but I was wrong. The truth of Valerie/Laurie was even better.
I appreciated the overarching message about the importance of self-acceptance and living authentically, along with the recognition of how hard that can be, especially when significant people in your life are not accepting.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The clock reads 1:00 when Laurie’s eyes open, and he quickly realizes that he is driving down an unfamiliar highway in someone else's body with no memories of how he got there. What follows is a series of Groundhog’s Days, the same day repeating over and over again as Laurie attempts to determine what happened and how to return to reality. Along the way, Laurie meets Gideon, a boy who somehow always seems to find his way into Laurie’s life, despite having to start over with each meeting. As Laurie learns more about the world and the person he’s inhabiting, truths become increasingly more evident, and as the clock counts backward, Laurie realizes there may be a limit to the number of second chances he’s able to have. This unique young adult novel introduces readers to Laurie, a character whose story is unfolding for both Laurie and the reader. Each cycle reveals more information, and readers will be curious to discover what happens next and what circumstances brought Laurie to this unprecedented experience. As Laurie begins to become comfortable sharing the fact that he is a boy inside a girl’s body, his feelings for Gideon become more obvious, and the two develop a sweet and slow burn romance. A poignant exploration of one trans youth’s journey to self acceptance, this book will resonate with readers regardless of their individual backgrounds. Strong language punctuates emotional moments within the story and dialogue propels the narrative alongside Laurie's introspective reflection, all of which work together to build a novel that feels real despite its imagined elements. Engaging and resonant, this book is a heartfelt addition to library collections for mature young adult readers and up.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is one of my favorite reads so far this year. It’s a simple premise and trope, but through a queer and trans lens - it’s incredible. I was enraptured from beginning to end, and I ended up reading Maybe Tomorrow I’ll Know in a single day.
Using amnesia and the time loop to let Laurie go on a slow, deliberate journey of self discovery, isolated from the pressures of the “real world” was incredible. It made the feeling of “I am stuck in someone else’s body” palpable and knowable (and achingly familiar to some) - and unquestionable through the tie in of the Freaky Friday element. I loved the moments of making decisions that “felt right” as well as the moments that “clicked” where Valerie and Laurie had common interests/passions.
The YEARNING in this book. This book has me reaffirming my belief that YA romance is unmatched for a good, slow burn, yearning romance. Paired with the time loop? Perfection! The time loop in this book amplifies the vulnerability, and the twist with Gideon in the middle was both relieving and heart-wrenching. The roof scene with Gideon and Laurie had me kicking my feet with yearning-induced butterflies!!
I loved that the supporting characters had deep, interesting plot lines and complexities. The time loop played with each of their own storylines, and I think it was exceptionally well done with how short this book was.
Ugh! The ending! I’ll take a sequel please. I’m ready for a part 2: college romance for these main characters.
Thank you to Alex Ritany and W. W. Norton & Company for the eARC! I’m off to read the rest of Alex’s works!
Using amnesia and the time loop to let Laurie go on a slow, deliberate journey of self discovery, isolated from the pressures of the “real world” was incredible. It made the feeling of “I am stuck in someone else’s body” palpable and knowable (and achingly familiar to some) - and unquestionable through the tie in of the Freaky Friday element. I loved the moments of making decisions that “felt right” as well as the moments that “clicked” where Valerie and Laurie had common interests/passions.
The YEARNING in this book. This book has me reaffirming my belief that YA romance is unmatched for a good, slow burn, yearning romance. Paired with the time loop? Perfection! The time loop in this book amplifies the vulnerability, and the twist with Gideon in the middle was both relieving and heart-wrenching. The roof scene with Gideon and Laurie had me kicking my feet with yearning-induced butterflies!!
I loved that the supporting characters had deep, interesting plot lines and complexities. The time loop played with each of their own storylines, and I think it was exceptionally well done with how short this book was.
Ugh! The ending! I’ll take a sequel please. I’m ready for a part 2: college romance for these main characters.
Thank you to Alex Ritany and W. W. Norton & Company for the eARC! I’m off to read the rest of Alex’s works!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley for letting me get a sneak peek of this book - I still have it on my wishlist - and waiting approval :) lol.
Okay this of this book like Footloose, mixed with Groundhogs day, and strict non supportive Christian parents, mistaken identity (at least in the FMC mind) - and you have a winner on your hands.
I am bad about giving away the whole book - but our main female lead, believes that she is not in her body, like Freaky Friday, her soul was swapped with a male - and she has 100 days to try to find the real her so that way they can change bodies.
Throughout the book, you see her trying to find herself, like talking to her parents, going to school, sending messages on the deep web trying to say "hey if your in the wrong body here I am" - and she winds up in a town meeting the main male lead character.
This is a book, about honoring what you know to be, standing up for yourself, love (at least unconditional from siblings and friends), I think also it should be a wake up call to parents - who might be so unsupportive and unloving to their child (just because they didn't live the life you wanted them to have- do you stop loving them and how can you do that (I had a talk with my husband about this).
A great book and thank you again for letting me read this Netgalley!
Okay this of this book like Footloose, mixed with Groundhogs day, and strict non supportive Christian parents, mistaken identity (at least in the FMC mind) - and you have a winner on your hands.
I am bad about giving away the whole book - but our main female lead, believes that she is not in her body, like Freaky Friday, her soul was swapped with a male - and she has 100 days to try to find the real her so that way they can change bodies.
Throughout the book, you see her trying to find herself, like talking to her parents, going to school, sending messages on the deep web trying to say "hey if your in the wrong body here I am" - and she winds up in a town meeting the main male lead character.
This is a book, about honoring what you know to be, standing up for yourself, love (at least unconditional from siblings and friends), I think also it should be a wake up call to parents - who might be so unsupportive and unloving to their child (just because they didn't live the life you wanted them to have- do you stop loving them and how can you do that (I had a talk with my husband about this).
A great book and thank you again for letting me read this Netgalley!
February 14, 2026
I generally dislike time loop stories and because of that, this isn't a book I would normally have chosen to pick up on my own. I won this in a book festival giveaway and didn't even know I'd won until the book showed up at my house. As for the book itself, there are a few reasons it stands out to me in the realm of time loop stories and only some of them I can actually say. The biggest thing to me is that it's not repetitive. My main gripe about stories like this is that details often get rehashed so many times over the course of the story. In this one, there are two different towns involved and each day's story alternates between those towns, then how the story is approached is always different, sometimes actually changing events of the day in the process. The other thing that stood out in this one is that the main character has none of his own memories, but is trapped in another person's body--a female's body to be exact, and has to find out who she is as well as finding out his own life in order to solve the puzzle. There were some reveals that I wasn't expecting in this book, but also added to the story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow. I'm so thankful I had the chance to read MAYBE TOMORROW I'LL KNOW. Alex Ritany's voice is so strong and accessible, and I was immediately pulled into the mystery: why is Laurie speeding down an unfamiliar highway? And what happens at the end of the time loop?
I loved getting to know the characters. They felt alive to me, and it was so easy to root for them. I also really appreciated the nuance Ritany brings into the interactions between different family members. Relationships are rarely one thing, and I liked seeing that complexity on the page.
By nature, time loops are repetitive (that's kind of the point, right?), but the story kept me invested in the characters and turning pages. Ritany left a few unanswered questions I'm still wondering about, but at the end of the day, those details weren't necessary to the story, and I don't mind letting my imagination fill in the gaps.
All around, I really enjoyed this captivating, hopeful story and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Norton Young Readers for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley!
I loved getting to know the characters. They felt alive to me, and it was so easy to root for them. I also really appreciated the nuance Ritany brings into the interactions between different family members. Relationships are rarely one thing, and I liked seeing that complexity on the page.
By nature, time loops are repetitive (that's kind of the point, right?), but the story kept me invested in the characters and turning pages. Ritany left a few unanswered questions I'm still wondering about, but at the end of the day, those details weren't necessary to the story, and I don't mind letting my imagination fill in the gaps.
All around, I really enjoyed this captivating, hopeful story and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Norton Young Readers for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
a little heartfelt story involving a time loop and a girl/boy that doesn't know how they got there as they try to figure out their own identity.
I haven't read many time loop stories, if any at all really, so I was really enjoying myself with this one. we get to pass many days while unraveling something new and that helps keep building the anticipation for what's going on.
I think this was a cute, easy read for anyone looking for something light-hearted. I think the author posed the overall theme and reason for writing this book really well within the time loop setting. there were obvious points where I wanted to be like, you could totally just do this instead, but you know, for the sake of the story, that doesn't work. we must suspend what we know.
did I guess the truth? a little. but I don't think that was the point. by the end I was like yeah, this feels like a story that the youth could use.
thank you to netgalley and Norton Young Readers for the eARC!
I haven't read many time loop stories, if any at all really, so I was really enjoying myself with this one. we get to pass many days while unraveling something new and that helps keep building the anticipation for what's going on.
I think this was a cute, easy read for anyone looking for something light-hearted. I think the author posed the overall theme and reason for writing this book really well within the time loop setting. there were obvious points where I wanted to be like, you could totally just do this instead, but you know, for the sake of the story, that doesn't work. we must suspend what we know.
did I guess the truth? a little. but I don't think that was the point. by the end I was like yeah, this feels like a story that the youth could use.
thank you to netgalley and Norton Young Readers for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A book full of characters you can’t help but root for every step of the way. While I don’t have much experience reading time-loop stories, this one was a genuinely fun ride with a deeply relatable message. What do we do when we feel lost? Who do we turn to in moments of anxiety? And who stands by us as we work through those feelings?
I especially enjoyed the romance between the main characters. The reader can truly feel the personal growth of each character, both individually and as their relationship slowly begins to bloom. The story explores important topics that deserve more open discussion, with the hope of encouraging meaningful conversations.
Overall, this is a great YA novel that made me reflect on empathy and acceptance, even when we may not fully understand someone else’s experience. A thoughtful slow burn with a beautiful, satisfying ending.
Thank you to Norton Young Readers for an early copy of this book via NetGalley. I’m excited to see what Alex Ritany creates next.
I especially enjoyed the romance between the main characters. The reader can truly feel the personal growth of each character, both individually and as their relationship slowly begins to bloom. The story explores important topics that deserve more open discussion, with the hope of encouraging meaningful conversations.
Overall, this is a great YA novel that made me reflect on empathy and acceptance, even when we may not fully understand someone else’s experience. A thoughtful slow burn with a beautiful, satisfying ending.
Thank you to Norton Young Readers for an early copy of this book via NetGalley. I’m excited to see what Alex Ritany creates next.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a sleepy five-star. It snuck right up on me out of nowhere. Laurie keeps reliving the same day over and over. Only problem is, it's not his life, and it's not his body. It's a girl's body in a town he knows nothing about. And there's a time clock on the dash of the car he keeps waking up in that is counting down to zero. As he tries to unravel who he is supposed to be, the secrets of the town, the secrets of this life he's borrowing, and what task he might need to complete to get out of this loop, he explores sexuality, friendship, family, and faces religious trauma. I did NOT see the ending coming. It was an incredible surprise, in the best way. It started slow, but didn't end that way!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book will become your new obsession.
I became so obsessed with this book, I started dreaming about it. Laurie wakes up on a time loop with no idea of what’s going on. All she knows is that she’s a boy trapped in a girl’s body and has 99 days to figure out what will break her out of the time loop. Along the way she meets people who either help her or frustrate her.
The characters were very well done and relatable, and the plot hung together. The writing was so easy and natural I felt like I was experiencing everything right along with the characters. MAYBE TOMORROW I’LL KNOW kept me reading long into the night. I truly wanted it to never end.
Great cover, too!
I became so obsessed with this book, I started dreaming about it. Laurie wakes up on a time loop with no idea of what’s going on. All she knows is that she’s a boy trapped in a girl’s body and has 99 days to figure out what will break her out of the time loop. Along the way she meets people who either help her or frustrate her.
The characters were very well done and relatable, and the plot hung together. The writing was so easy and natural I felt like I was experiencing everything right along with the characters. MAYBE TOMORROW I’LL KNOW kept me reading long into the night. I truly wanted it to never end.
Great cover, too!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is such a powerful exploration of repressed memories and how we build our own stories, both to form cages and to set ourselves free.
The writing is strong and engaging, and the protagonist, Laurie, immediately captured my heart. The story unfolds with elegant precision, avoiding the cliches so endemic in time-loop plots. The romance also avoids tropes, developing naturally and spontaneously into a truly moving and healing relationship.
The writing is strong and engaging, and the protagonist, Laurie, immediately captured my heart. The story unfolds with elegant precision, avoiding the cliches so endemic in time-loop plots. The romance also avoids tropes, developing naturally and spontaneously into a truly moving and healing relationship.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
The first thing Laurie knows, she’s driving a car in an unfamiliar place and she’s in a body that is other own. Caught in a time loop, Laurie repeats the same day over and over, and each time comes to a greater understanding of who she really is. Readers will be intrigued by Laurie’s struggle with her gender identity and with responding bravely and honestly to her family and friends. Earc from Edelweiss.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Grateful for an ARC of this extremely well written book. This was such a beautiful and compelling story that I couldn't put down the last few nights. Alex Ritany's writing style has such depth without feeling forced or overly done. It was easy to lose myself in the pages. I was a big fan of Laurie and an even bigger fan of Gideon. Well worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
What I liked:
- Fun take on a time loop/the countdown
- Lots of queer characters
- The final chapter
- The cover and scene break art are lovely
What I didn't like:
- The flashback chapters
- How long the book took to get to the point
What I hated:
- The epilogue, I wish I could unread it because it really spoiled the book for me
- Fun take on a time loop/the countdown
- Lots of queer characters
- The final chapter
- The cover and scene break art are lovely
What I didn't like:
- The flashback chapters
- How long the book took to get to the point
What I hated:
- The epilogue, I wish I could unread it because it really spoiled the book for me
October 30, 2024
I'm completely obsessed with this book. Both high concept and earnest, fun and profound, this book will burrow into your heart and take up permanent residence there. Time loops, flirting, and GIDEON omg please read it because GIDEON (you'll know when you know).
Read
February 12, 2026wtf
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
I enjoyed the story overall, but I was not a fan of the ending.
Review of advance copy received from Author
guys, listen. author here. this book was my last shot-in-the-dark passion project and it changed my life. that it exists in the world at all is already beating the odds i gave a time loop story about gender, and i am so grateful for the opportunity to share it with you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews