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Maybe One Day
A best friend could be her best chance at love.
For as long as she can remember, Hayley Donovan has had a crush on Jace Hammond, and she always hoped that maybe one day, he’d feel the same. She never said anything until one night when she confessed her feelings. Now she’s afraid she’s ruined their friendship forever. After all, Jace has never given her any indication that he feels the same way.
Two years later, Hayley decides to leave her small town and her family's tragic past behind to attend the University of Delaware - the very same university as Jace. As the two reconnect for the first time in over a year, they can't ignore the growing feelings between them, however, things are never simple when it comes to love.
After an unwanted encounter with a guy at an off-campus party, Hayley turns to Jace for support, and it brings out all the emotions he's tried so hard to keep buried. As they're pulled together, it’s clear that their feelings haven't changed, only deepened, and keeping things platonic becomes impossible. Jace wants to build a future with Hayley, no matter the cost. It won't be easy for them to overcome years of ignoring the truth, but they're determined to try - together.
But as the threats against Hayley begin to escalate, being together means confronting both the present and the past, putting their hearts, and possibly her life, on the line.
For as long as she can remember, Hayley Donovan has had a crush on Jace Hammond, and she always hoped that maybe one day, he’d feel the same. She never said anything until one night when she confessed her feelings. Now she’s afraid she’s ruined their friendship forever. After all, Jace has never given her any indication that he feels the same way.
Two years later, Hayley decides to leave her small town and her family's tragic past behind to attend the University of Delaware - the very same university as Jace. As the two reconnect for the first time in over a year, they can't ignore the growing feelings between them, however, things are never simple when it comes to love.
After an unwanted encounter with a guy at an off-campus party, Hayley turns to Jace for support, and it brings out all the emotions he's tried so hard to keep buried. As they're pulled together, it’s clear that their feelings haven't changed, only deepened, and keeping things platonic becomes impossible. Jace wants to build a future with Hayley, no matter the cost. It won't be easy for them to overcome years of ignoring the truth, but they're determined to try - together.
But as the threats against Hayley begin to escalate, being together means confronting both the present and the past, putting their hearts, and possibly her life, on the line.
368 pages, Paperback
Published April 11, 2023
25 people are currently reading
5880 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Douglas
1 book38 followersSarah Douglas is an Australian author who began writing and sharing her books online as a teenager. Now twenty-something, not much has changed. She lives by the sea, has to start her day with caffeine (her emotional support drink as a perpetually tired parent), and loves the outdoors. When she isn't coming up with story ideas, you can find her chasing after her toddler, meal prepping, playing video games, or daydreaming about where she'd like to camp off-grid next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 23, 2024
***ARC REVIEW***
Thank you to NetGallery, the publisher and author for allowing me to have an ARC copy!
Ahh, I don't know where to begin. I felt like I went on a roller coaster of emotions. This story was amazing! Hayley's character growth was *chef's kiss* The love that Jace and Hayley had for each other from beginning to end was captivating! Jace is definitely another one of my book boyfriends. This book showed the true ups and downs that a relationship can have. Also, it showed that no matter what happens, when you truly love someone you will fight for them, protect them and love them whole heartedly.
Also, I wasn't expecting the twists that happened in the book. I really loved the plot! I've never read a book with this kind of plot. I couldn't put this book down to say the least. Another side note is I loved Amelia's character, who is Hayley's best friend. She was so supportive towards everything. She was definitely the bestest of best friends!
"Maybe One Day" has become one of my favorites! Once this book is officially released, I will definitely be getting my hands on a physical copy!
Thank you to NetGallery, the publisher and author for allowing me to have an ARC copy!
Ahh, I don't know where to begin. I felt like I went on a roller coaster of emotions. This story was amazing! Hayley's character growth was *chef's kiss* The love that Jace and Hayley had for each other from beginning to end was captivating! Jace is definitely another one of my book boyfriends. This book showed the true ups and downs that a relationship can have. Also, it showed that no matter what happens, when you truly love someone you will fight for them, protect them and love them whole heartedly.
Also, I wasn't expecting the twists that happened in the book. I really loved the plot! I've never read a book with this kind of plot. I couldn't put this book down to say the least. Another side note is I loved Amelia's character, who is Hayley's best friend. She was so supportive towards everything. She was definitely the bestest of best friends!
"Maybe One Day" has become one of my favorites! Once this book is officially released, I will definitely be getting my hands on a physical copy!
January 5, 2023
~ARC Review~ (slightest of spoilers)
Gosh where do I even start?! I was immediately hooked since Jace and Hayley were going to the University of Delaware, where I went to school. I pictured everything so clearly since I spent 4 years of my life there and the author used the real names of dorms, streets, Greek life, etc. so I felt so close to home reading this. The ups and downs of Jace and Hayles’ relationship was REAL, not every relationship is smooth from the beginning or just growing together but sometimes full of complications like their story. The reality of life on campus (especially as a girl) was portrayed so accurately as well as crazy ex boyfriends, it was just a crazy plot line that had me hooked every step of the way. I can’t wait until Maybe One Day is out so I can add the physical version to my library 🥰
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Gosh where do I even start?! I was immediately hooked since Jace and Hayley were going to the University of Delaware, where I went to school. I pictured everything so clearly since I spent 4 years of my life there and the author used the real names of dorms, streets, Greek life, etc. so I felt so close to home reading this. The ups and downs of Jace and Hayles’ relationship was REAL, not every relationship is smooth from the beginning or just growing together but sometimes full of complications like their story. The reality of life on campus (especially as a girl) was portrayed so accurately as well as crazy ex boyfriends, it was just a crazy plot line that had me hooked every step of the way. I can’t wait until Maybe One Day is out so I can add the physical version to my library 🥰
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
November 6, 2023
this book is for the lana del rey obsessed girls like me.
coming back to hayley & jace's story after a long time was such a nostalgic experience. i remember crying and loving these characters so much and this reread brought me back to those feelings again. it was really sad and painful to watch hayley navigate through life after such a traumatic experience but i'm glad she had jace and amelia by her side. i really care a lot about them:') i only want them to be happy! and i even ended up wanting spin-offs for everyone else. amelia? eden? owen? KASEY DALLAS (iykyk let's manifest) everyone had such interesting personalities that i'd love to read about, too! (this is not because i want hayley & jace cameos, of course not. unless?)
"It means this whole time, it's only been you," he said, voice rough at the edges. "Because even when it hasn't, it's still been me, trying not to want you."
"I know I can always find him by my side in my darkest hours or in times of despair. He safeguards my heart, and I treasure his."
coming back to hayley & jace's story after a long time was such a nostalgic experience. i remember crying and loving these characters so much and this reread brought me back to those feelings again. it was really sad and painful to watch hayley navigate through life after such a traumatic experience but i'm glad she had jace and amelia by her side. i really care a lot about them:') i only want them to be happy! and i even ended up wanting spin-offs for everyone else. amelia? eden? owen? KASEY DALLAS (iykyk let's manifest) everyone had such interesting personalities that i'd love to read about, too! (this is not because i want hayley & jace cameos, of course not. unless?)
"It means this whole time, it's only been you," he said, voice rough at the edges. "Because even when it hasn't, it's still been me, trying not to want you."
"I know I can always find him by my side in my darkest hours or in times of despair. He safeguards my heart, and I treasure his."
September 4, 2025
4 friends Hayley & Tom brother and sister.
Jace & Millie also brother & sister, each are the best of friends.
1 set fall in love. 1 of the boys dies in a tragic accident just before his high school graduation.
Just over 2 years later Hayley begins college.
We meet Pippa, Owen and Eden.
It’s full of suspense, mystery and truly romantic thoughts, dreams and loss.
So sizzling hot and romantic.
I got the chills reading it and thinking that someone was unbelievably too romantic, I guess it’s because it’s what we all wish for, this kind of love.
Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and Author for allowing me to read this incredible book in exchange for a review. I absolutely loved every minute of it.
Jace & Millie also brother & sister, each are the best of friends.
1 set fall in love. 1 of the boys dies in a tragic accident just before his high school graduation.
Just over 2 years later Hayley begins college.
We meet Pippa, Owen and Eden.
It’s full of suspense, mystery and truly romantic thoughts, dreams and loss.
So sizzling hot and romantic.
I got the chills reading it and thinking that someone was unbelievably too romantic, I guess it’s because it’s what we all wish for, this kind of love.
Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and Author for allowing me to read this incredible book in exchange for a review. I absolutely loved every minute of it.
July 7, 2023
2.75
maybe one day someone will enjoy this book
maybe one day someone will enjoy this book
December 23, 2022
Wow! The journey between Hayles and Jace is amazing. I love their friendship.
Slight spoilers ahead:
1 thing I loved about this book is there are no secrets between Hayley and Amelia. Hayley has always told her bestie about her feelings towards Jace and when Jace and Hayles finally get together, they are upfront about it.
I also LOVED that Jace was not portrayed as a manwhore. In most best friends brother trope books the relationship is secretive and the man is usually slutting it up around campus before he gets with the FMC. It was such a nice change of pace that Jace isn't that guy.
I won't spoil the big plots and twists but I enjoyed my read and could see reading it again!
Slight spoilers ahead:
1 thing I loved about this book is there are no secrets between Hayley and Amelia. Hayley has always told her bestie about her feelings towards Jace and when Jace and Hayles finally get together, they are upfront about it.
I also LOVED that Jace was not portrayed as a manwhore. In most best friends brother trope books the relationship is secretive and the man is usually slutting it up around campus before he gets with the FMC. It was such a nice change of pace that Jace isn't that guy.
I won't spoil the big plots and twists but I enjoyed my read and could see reading it again!
April 17, 2023
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I had no idea what to expect, but wow it was pretty good. The beginning of this book, I felt quite slow to me, and at first, it was a little hard to get into. However, I’d say about 20% of the way in things started to ramped up a bit. The romance aspect of this book definitely fell a little short for me however, I loved the incorporation of grief into this book. I thought the author did a really great job at expressing it throughout the entire book. The constant break ups in this book did give me whiplash, but other than that, I really enjoyed the story and the authors writing style. I would definitely read another book from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5)
I had no idea what to expect, but wow it was pretty good. The beginning of this book, I felt quite slow to me, and at first, it was a little hard to get into. However, I’d say about 20% of the way in things started to ramped up a bit. The romance aspect of this book definitely fell a little short for me however, I loved the incorporation of grief into this book. I thought the author did a really great job at expressing it throughout the entire book. The constant break ups in this book did give me whiplash, but other than that, I really enjoyed the story and the authors writing style. I would definitely read another book from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5)
May 1, 2024
This was a great read and was pretty well executed. I really liked the character development of the main characters and I thought their stories came through pretty well. I kept reading for the plot, but unfortunately, the editor of this novel didn't help the author do it justice when it came to the passage of time and various transitions. Levi's involvement was also very confusing which made it hard to keep up with what was happening at times, but made sense later on (sorry, don't want to give away the plot here). This book has a TON of potential though. I wasn't a huge fan of the cliché third act breakup (though it also made sense later)
Overall, this author has a TON of potential and I can't wait to see what they come up with next. The plotline of this novel was original (and refreshing after reading so many books I didn't enjoy this year). Their ideas are *chef's kiss*, but their execution needs some polishing and editing before the next book is published. I see this author/teacher going places in the future with the right team behind them!
Overall, this author has a TON of potential and I can't wait to see what they come up with next. The plotline of this novel was original (and refreshing after reading so many books I didn't enjoy this year). Their ideas are *chef's kiss*, but their execution needs some polishing and editing before the next book is published. I see this author/teacher going places in the future with the right team behind them!
March 30, 2023
The plot of this book was fantastic and really well executed. I thought the story and the experiences really came through and the emotions of the characters were very well done. I liked Haley and Jace a lot and I liked seeing their connection over time. This plot kept me reading because of how well it was done however, some of the writing could use work. I found the transitions to be a little tough, especially between time jumps. I would often have to go back and reread paragraph to realize the time changed. I wasn’t a fan of the third act break up, but it was kind of explained towards the end. A tiny bit of it felt contrived as well. Overall, I think this is well done for a review story, but it could’ve used more refinement before being published. I do look forward to see what ideas this author has next, because the book felt original, which was refreshing. As a trigger warning, there is a scene depicting death with some visuals explained, and there is attempted sexual assault. Additionally, there is stalking and mental health concerns for various characters. 3⭐️, 2🌶
April 10, 2023
Poignant novel.
Hayley and Jace are like two magnets, irrevocably attracted to each other but apart.
Their combined history makes being together complicated and only when Hayley is threatened do they decide love is with the risk.
I thought Hayley was immature for most of the book. I understand Jace’s hesitancy but he almost waited too long.
It’s a decent read about complicated romance.
Thanks to Wattpad and Edelweiss and Netgalley for the early read.
Hayley and Jace are like two magnets, irrevocably attracted to each other but apart.
Their combined history makes being together complicated and only when Hayley is threatened do they decide love is with the risk.
I thought Hayley was immature for most of the book. I understand Jace’s hesitancy but he almost waited too long.
It’s a decent read about complicated romance.
Thanks to Wattpad and Edelweiss and Netgalley for the early read.
March 15, 2024
speechless.. this was amazing
December 22, 2022
Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC. I’m leaving my honest feedback. Spoilers ahead
The back and forth between Jace and Hayley was a lot. I love tension, and I understand why it was done this way, but it was still a bit too much for me. I wasn’t completely shocked by Levi’s identity either. But it was interesting to see how grief affected these two people that lost loved ones. Overall, I liked this book. Solid 3.5 stars
The back and forth between Jace and Hayley was a lot. I love tension, and I understand why it was done this way, but it was still a bit too much for me. I wasn’t completely shocked by Levi’s identity either. But it was interesting to see how grief affected these two people that lost loved ones. Overall, I liked this book. Solid 3.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2023
Amennyire szeretem a best friend’s brother trope-ot, és amennyire jól kezdődött ez a könyv, a végére rettenetesen eluntam, és a nagy titokra is elég könnyen rá lehetett jönni. Kár érte, ennél sokkal jobb lehetett volna!
March 16, 2023
What I Did Like:
+Good descriptions. Between character descriptions and descriptions of scenes and action, this one is easy to picture.
+Friends to lovers. Always a trope I like. The friendship between these two is never really in question. You believe that right from the start. That makes the romance cute and believable.
+I appreciate the changes in expectation. This one is really more about people dealing with grief in different ways than I expected and I like that.
Who Should Read This One:
-New adult readers who want a spicier romance than they can get on the young adult shelves but like the friends to lovers trope (beware the content warnings, friends).
My Rating: 3 stars
For Full Review: https://tabathashipleybooks.com/2023/...
+Good descriptions. Between character descriptions and descriptions of scenes and action, this one is easy to picture.
+Friends to lovers. Always a trope I like. The friendship between these two is never really in question. You believe that right from the start. That makes the romance cute and believable.
+I appreciate the changes in expectation. This one is really more about people dealing with grief in different ways than I expected and I like that.
Who Should Read This One:
-New adult readers who want a spicier romance than they can get on the young adult shelves but like the friends to lovers trope (beware the content warnings, friends).
My Rating: 3 stars
For Full Review: https://tabathashipleybooks.com/2023/...
February 20, 2023
***ARC REVIEW***
From the moment I came across Sarah Douglas and read about this book, I HAD to read it. So much so that it was number 1 on my "Most Anticipated Books of 2023" and every post the author made had me obsessing—I needed to meet these characters and go on their journey with them—and what a journey it was!
Maybe One Day did not disappoint! The story was amazing, the characters and the growth they experienced was everything I love and appreciate in a great book. But it was also suspenseful and heartbreaking, too. A rollercoaster of emotions actually—that 2nd chapter had me bawling, so you've been warned.
The relationship between Jace and Hayley was... *swoons* so special and captivating! These two are true soulmates meant for each other, I loved them so much! Jace is a new book boyfriend who can definitely give overs a run for their money in the way he loves and cares about Hayley. I also LOVED how protective of her he was. But these two did not have it easy. After the tragic passing of Hayley's brother, they both had their share of trauma and scars to deal with, but the fact they faced them together, leaning on each other really solidified their relationship. And even though one may have pushed the other away more, I really appreciated that it wasn't a constant battle and that there was more leaning and opening up then pushing and running away. Sarah did a beautiful job showing the up's and downs of a relationship, especially two young people transitioning from being friends to lovers.
Maybe One Day wasn't just a romantic and emotional read, it was suspenseful! It started out small and had me wondering if it meant anything, but then the mystery grew throughout the story and kept me guessing. I wasn't expecting to be on the edge of my seat so much or for all the twisty turns that happened, but the twist(!!) was brilliantly planned and executed! I loved every heartracing second of it—my heartrate, not so much!
Lastly, if I *had* to give a complaint, it was that it ended too soon. I wanted more—I needed it, but that's probably just me being selfish. Also, I don't know if the author has any plans for a sequel, but I'm gonna put it out there: Ameila and Owen. Was it just me or was there something there between them at her birthday party?? Just a thought ;)
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and author for allowing me to have an ARC.
From the moment I came across Sarah Douglas and read about this book, I HAD to read it. So much so that it was number 1 on my "Most Anticipated Books of 2023" and every post the author made had me obsessing—I needed to meet these characters and go on their journey with them—and what a journey it was!
Maybe One Day did not disappoint! The story was amazing, the characters and the growth they experienced was everything I love and appreciate in a great book. But it was also suspenseful and heartbreaking, too. A rollercoaster of emotions actually—that 2nd chapter had me bawling, so you've been warned.
The relationship between Jace and Hayley was... *swoons* so special and captivating! These two are true soulmates meant for each other, I loved them so much! Jace is a new book boyfriend who can definitely give overs a run for their money in the way he loves and cares about Hayley. I also LOVED how protective of her he was. But these two did not have it easy. After the tragic passing of Hayley's brother, they both had their share of trauma and scars to deal with, but the fact they faced them together, leaning on each other really solidified their relationship. And even though one may have pushed the other away more, I really appreciated that it wasn't a constant battle and that there was more leaning and opening up then pushing and running away. Sarah did a beautiful job showing the up's and downs of a relationship, especially two young people transitioning from being friends to lovers.
Maybe One Day wasn't just a romantic and emotional read, it was suspenseful! It started out small and had me wondering if it meant anything, but then the mystery grew throughout the story and kept me guessing. I wasn't expecting to be on the edge of my seat so much or for all the twisty turns that happened, but the twist(!!) was brilliantly planned and executed! I loved every heartracing second of it—my heartrate, not so much!
Lastly, if I *had* to give a complaint, it was that it ended too soon. I wanted more—I needed it, but that's probably just me being selfish. Also, I don't know if the author has any plans for a sequel, but I'm gonna put it out there: Ameila and Owen. Was it just me or was there something there between them at her birthday party?? Just a thought ;)
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and author for allowing me to have an ARC.
June 1, 2023
I have continually set this book aside in place of other books because duh. What kind of reader would I be if I wasn’t a procrastinator.
It started slow and it didn’t hook me. Until today. I’ve sat here for three hours reading Jace and Hayley’s story because once it gets good, it gets good.
Of course, the pacing felt off and it’s definitely written as a Wattpad book. As someone who’s been active on the platform since 2015 or so, I’m very familiar with the episodic style of Wattpad written books, where each chapter feels like a new “episode” but I think that sometimes works in the favor of this book.
Maybe One Day feels a lot like the WB/CW shows I’ve enjoyed over the years, namely shows like Gilmore Girls and One Tree Hill. The plot with Levi, especially the climax of the book, felt very similar to Peyton Sawyer of One Tree Hill, and the situation she has with a stalker in the early seasons of that show.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it definitely isn’t the greatest piece of fiction I’ve read.
I think, if this book was completely overhauled and written from the ground up, and pacing was fixed, it would feel less like a Wattpad book.
It started slow and it didn’t hook me. Until today. I’ve sat here for three hours reading Jace and Hayley’s story because once it gets good, it gets good.
Of course, the pacing felt off and it’s definitely written as a Wattpad book. As someone who’s been active on the platform since 2015 or so, I’m very familiar with the episodic style of Wattpad written books, where each chapter feels like a new “episode” but I think that sometimes works in the favor of this book.
Maybe One Day feels a lot like the WB/CW shows I’ve enjoyed over the years, namely shows like Gilmore Girls and One Tree Hill. The plot with Levi, especially the climax of the book, felt very similar to Peyton Sawyer of One Tree Hill, and the situation she has with a stalker in the early seasons of that show.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, but it definitely isn’t the greatest piece of fiction I’ve read.
I think, if this book was completely overhauled and written from the ground up, and pacing was fixed, it would feel less like a Wattpad book.
March 7, 2023
Firstly, I want to thank Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book sounded so good on the surface....and started off really well. Then unfortunately it took a nosedive and floundered in the deep end for quite a bit. I struggled to read this as parts of it were really hard to understand.
This is not a book I'd read again, unfortunately
This book sounded so good on the surface....and started off really well. Then unfortunately it took a nosedive and floundered in the deep end for quite a bit. I struggled to read this as parts of it were really hard to understand.
This is not a book I'd read again, unfortunately
January 30, 2023
This was all my favorite tropes in one romance novel. I loved both the female and male lead characters. I was really rooting for them both to end up together. I loved when they finally got together. The twists and turns until they finally got together was so engaging. I read this book in one sitting only. I loved the book and want to read more from this author.
February 8, 2023
This book was a roller coaster read! Lol...I was instantly hooked from page one until the end. The character were so amazing. The twist and turns in the book will keep you wanting more. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a real page turner.
Thanks NetGalley and Wattpad Webtoon Book Group for allowing me to read this ARC in advance.
Thanks NetGalley and Wattpad Webtoon Book Group for allowing me to read this ARC in advance.
June 12, 2023
This book gets straight into the love story and trauma! Instantly connected to the characters and really enjoyed the development. The book explored way more than a love story - it’s about grief, friendship and growth. Really enjoyable. Recommend. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
March 6, 2023
GENERAL INFO
Year Pub/Re Pub: 4/11/23
Format: e-book
Source: e-ARC- Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher. I voluntarily give an honest review. All opinions are purely my own and not affiliated with any brand.
Page Count: 416
Setting: Port Worth, MD and University of Delaware
Genre: YA romantic suspense
Tropes: best friend's brother/brother's best friend, virgin heroine
Standalone/Cliffhanger/Part of a Series: standalone
HEA/HFN ending: HEA
Epilogue Included: yes, the Dear Tom letter
Character(s)POV Spoken: H/h Hayley and Jace
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Synopsis/Plot Summary: Hayley admits to a childhood crush on Jace-her big brother's best friend. A terrible car accident changes many lives. Hayley and Jace try to move on with a complicated love story.
M/F-M/M-M/M/F-etc: M/F
Contains Cheating: no
Contains Children: no
Flashbacks: yes, the accident haunts Hayley and Jace. Family issues w/ grief, dealing with blame in a small town.
Jealy/Possy/OTT H/h : yes, Jace is extremely protective of Hayley and his sister Amelia. Willing to do anything for them, even break Hayley's heart.
Amount of Sex In The Book: a few make outs, H/h have their 1st time
Overall Smex Rating: 3
CHARACTER DESCRIPTION
Hero: Jace Hammond
Hero Description: 19, freshman in college. Fights his attraction to Hayley because he sees her as little sister's bff. He is Hayley's self-appointed protector, therapist, and reluctant boyfriend.
Hero Likability Rating: 4
Hero loves: photography
Heroine: Hayley Donovan
Heroine Description: 16, sophomore in high school. Had crush on Jace since childhood, confesses it to Jace. 2 years later in college, Hayley and Jace reconnect and try for a relationship, even when outside forces try to keep them apart.
Heroine Likability Rating: 4
Heroine loves: interior design
Secondary characters:
Tom-Hayley's older brother, Jace's bff
Amelia-Jace's sister and Hayley's bff
Derek-Tom's bff, a bad influence
Piper and Owen-Jace's college friends
Eden-Hayley's new college friend
H /h RELATIONSHIP INFO
Endearments: Hayles-Jace nick name for Hayley
OW/OM/Exes: Zoe-Jace's ex-girlfriend
Cheating Before/During/Outside H/h Relationship: no
CONTENT WARNINGS/TRIGGERS: deadly drunk driving car accident, grief/therapy, stalking, sexual assault
AUTHOR OVERVIEW: Sarah Douglas-Debut novel
PERSONAL OVERVIEW
Overall Rating: 3/3.5
Do You Recommend This Book: yes
Will You Re-read This Book: no
Would You Read More Books by this Author: yes
COMMENTS/NOTES: It's slow in parts with Hayley and Jace's inner monologues. Hate to say it, but I wished Levi did more to Hayley and Jace to keep the action going. I wanted to know more about Amelia and why she didn't go to college. I hope Amelia, Piper, and Owen get their stories told.
Year Pub/Re Pub: 4/11/23
Format: e-book
Source: e-ARC- Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher. I voluntarily give an honest review. All opinions are purely my own and not affiliated with any brand.
Page Count: 416
Setting: Port Worth, MD and University of Delaware
Genre: YA romantic suspense
Tropes: best friend's brother/brother's best friend, virgin heroine
Standalone/Cliffhanger/Part of a Series: standalone
HEA/HFN ending: HEA
Epilogue Included: yes, the Dear Tom letter
Character(s)POV Spoken: H/h Hayley and Jace
BOOK DESCRIPTION
Synopsis/Plot Summary: Hayley admits to a childhood crush on Jace-her big brother's best friend. A terrible car accident changes many lives. Hayley and Jace try to move on with a complicated love story.
M/F-M/M-M/M/F-etc: M/F
Contains Cheating: no
Contains Children: no
Flashbacks: yes, the accident haunts Hayley and Jace. Family issues w/ grief, dealing with blame in a small town.
Jealy/Possy/OTT H/h : yes, Jace is extremely protective of Hayley and his sister Amelia. Willing to do anything for them, even break Hayley's heart.
Amount of Sex In The Book: a few make outs, H/h have their 1st time
Overall Smex Rating: 3
CHARACTER DESCRIPTION
Hero: Jace Hammond
Hero Description: 19, freshman in college. Fights his attraction to Hayley because he sees her as little sister's bff. He is Hayley's self-appointed protector, therapist, and reluctant boyfriend.
Hero Likability Rating: 4
Hero loves: photography
Heroine: Hayley Donovan
Heroine Description: 16, sophomore in high school. Had crush on Jace since childhood, confesses it to Jace. 2 years later in college, Hayley and Jace reconnect and try for a relationship, even when outside forces try to keep them apart.
Heroine Likability Rating: 4
Heroine loves: interior design
Secondary characters:
Tom-Hayley's older brother, Jace's bff
Amelia-Jace's sister and Hayley's bff
Derek-Tom's bff, a bad influence
Piper and Owen-Jace's college friends
Eden-Hayley's new college friend
H /h RELATIONSHIP INFO
Endearments: Hayles-Jace nick name for Hayley
OW/OM/Exes: Zoe-Jace's ex-girlfriend
Cheating Before/During/Outside H/h Relationship: no
CONTENT WARNINGS/TRIGGERS: deadly drunk driving car accident, grief/therapy, stalking, sexual assault
AUTHOR OVERVIEW: Sarah Douglas-Debut novel
PERSONAL OVERVIEW
Overall Rating: 3/3.5
Do You Recommend This Book: yes
Will You Re-read This Book: no
Would You Read More Books by this Author: yes
COMMENTS/NOTES: It's slow in parts with Hayley and Jace's inner monologues. Hate to say it, but I wished Levi did more to Hayley and Jace to keep the action going. I wanted to know more about Amelia and why she didn't go to college. I hope Amelia, Piper, and Owen get their stories told.
May 13, 2023
2 ⭐️ — For a debut published novel, it wasn’t that bad but everything still seem out of place. This book reminded me of
Meet Me in the Middle
which I read last year, I suppose. The storyline is quite similar and if it was inspired by that book, no wonder why it was written like that. The difference is it is a story about two best friends not three like the other book was. Even though this was a romance book, I just do not get the attachment on where the romance or feeling of attachment on any of the characters
The main story started with those two best friends who have feelings towards each other but keep it silent throughout the years of their friendship. Too many time skip in this part and even if you guys skimmed it, it doesn’t make any difference as well.
The Characters in this book are totally out of place especially Jace, the Male MC. It feels like he cannot hold his own ground and has no idea what he wants in his life but confused the other participant in his life. If the author intend or aimed that his character is like that, she did a great job at it. But, I don’t think that was the case tho. Because, one moment, the author makes Jace as a loving guy but then a few pages later, she makes Jace as annoying as fuck as a male lead. Then, the toxic trait between Hayley and Jace has a way out of my league. I understood that this is Wattpad book publication and debut book-ish but I don’t think this is going to be this rubbish tbh.
The Storyline is also quite rubbish, if this main focus on griefing, it doesn’t deliver it own style well. Then, there was a point when the author would like to add some critical thinking to the plot because of the mystery on it. Well, it was total nonsense, especially about Aaron and Jace, they were fighting and strangling each other but hell, Jace doesn’t even recognize Aaron? what kind of world they are living? Then, there is the police in here is a laughing matter, it was like they couldn’t even do their job well. I know some police couldn’t be that good but some of them are! Meanwhile, in here they are a laughing stock instead. However, in some part, they did a shocking part about the assigned officer for Hayley.
The Characteristic, nope not even any significant development on each part.
Laughing question: Is the creepy monster that prof or it was Aaron???
Tbh, I do not find any specific issues for this book but maybe it was supposed to be focusing on the grieving but I do not get those at all. I just get a glimpse of it but the main thing is get the several toxic traits between our dearest main character which goes round and round. Overall, I dislike this book and was disappointed because in the first place, I was happy because this book is focusing on the best-friend-to-lover but it was more like toxic-friendship-with-benefit-to-something-more-but-not-quite-can-be-called-as-lovers thing. LMAO.
Some Improvement are needed:
➊Please focused only on one main story which can be written well, is it romance? grievances? Young Adult? or some Mystery-thriller?
➋Jace forgot to lock his car but Hayley can get into his car easily and it can be locked inside while she is there without the keys? OK, I was dumb with automotive and not a ner-tech but I don’t think it was possible somehow. I am lost.
➌The characteristics of the main character need to be more specific and written in more detail but not too much which makes the reader bored.
➍The font on the message r typing conversation needs to be different from the other font of the storyline. If you read the e-book version, it would make the reader more confused!
➎Please do make a mind map for the main suspect and the dots so the story is connected!
➏The Foundatiom on the losing part is nonsense. It might be wanted to deliver this is how the grieving families look like but Hayley’s family’s griefing is out of place and seems odd as well as the storyline did not match up to one another from the previous chapter
➐Aaron doesn’t have any strong argument in these last few chapters. He needs a strong background of why he did what he did in the first place. Is this how grieving and losing someone took a toll and waking the demon on certain someone would be? — where’s the strong argument on this part?????
Thank you Netgalley for providing me e-arc of this book and giving me the privilege to read it before the publication date. Also, I would like to apologize to give the full review one month after the publication.
The main story started with those two best friends who have feelings towards each other but keep it silent throughout the years of their friendship. Too many time skip in this part and even if you guys skimmed it, it doesn’t make any difference as well.
The Characters in this book are totally out of place especially Jace, the Male MC. It feels like he cannot hold his own ground and has no idea what he wants in his life but confused the other participant in his life. If the author intend or aimed that his character is like that, she did a great job at it. But, I don’t think that was the case tho. Because, one moment, the author makes Jace as a loving guy but then a few pages later, she makes Jace as annoying as fuck as a male lead. Then, the toxic trait between Hayley and Jace has a way out of my league. I understood that this is Wattpad book publication and debut book-ish but I don’t think this is going to be this rubbish tbh.
The Storyline is also quite rubbish, if this main focus on griefing, it doesn’t deliver it own style well. Then, there was a point when the author would like to add some critical thinking to the plot because of the mystery on it. Well, it was total nonsense, especially about Aaron and Jace, they were fighting and strangling each other but hell, Jace doesn’t even recognize Aaron? what kind of world they are living? Then, there is the police in here is a laughing matter, it was like they couldn’t even do their job well. I know some police couldn’t be that good but some of them are! Meanwhile, in here they are a laughing stock instead. However, in some part, they did a shocking part about the assigned officer for Hayley.
The Characteristic, nope not even any significant development on each part.
Laughing question: Is the creepy monster that prof or it was Aaron???
Tbh, I do not find any specific issues for this book but maybe it was supposed to be focusing on the grieving but I do not get those at all. I just get a glimpse of it but the main thing is get the several toxic traits between our dearest main character which goes round and round. Overall, I dislike this book and was disappointed because in the first place, I was happy because this book is focusing on the best-friend-to-lover but it was more like toxic-friendship-with-benefit-to-something-more-but-not-quite-can-be-called-as-lovers thing. LMAO.
Some Improvement are needed:
➊Please focused only on one main story which can be written well, is it romance? grievances? Young Adult? or some Mystery-thriller?
➋Jace forgot to lock his car but Hayley can get into his car easily and it can be locked inside while she is there without the keys? OK, I was dumb with automotive and not a ner-tech but I don’t think it was possible somehow. I am lost.
➌The characteristics of the main character need to be more specific and written in more detail but not too much which makes the reader bored.
➍The font on the message r typing conversation needs to be different from the other font of the storyline. If you read the e-book version, it would make the reader more confused!
➎Please do make a mind map for the main suspect and the dots so the story is connected!
➏The Foundatiom on the losing part is nonsense. It might be wanted to deliver this is how the grieving families look like but Hayley’s family’s griefing is out of place and seems odd as well as the storyline did not match up to one another from the previous chapter
➐Aaron doesn’t have any strong argument in these last few chapters. He needs a strong background of why he did what he did in the first place. Is this how grieving and losing someone took a toll and waking the demon on certain someone would be? — where’s the strong argument on this part?????
Thank you Netgalley for providing me e-arc of this book and giving me the privilege to read it before the publication date. Also, I would like to apologize to give the full review one month after the publication.
July 1, 2025
I tend to stay very far away from the good ole Wattpad, but when I saw this book wedged in the shelf at my local Books-A-Million, I thought “you know what, why not?” And of course, in typical Wattpad fashion, this book had as many twists and turns as any backroad in the state of Tennessee.
For starters, I would like to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the characters in this story. I really felt them come alive through the pages as if I knew them myself. I love how the author made Hayley and Amelia’s friendship so genuine. I think a lot of authors miss the mark on this. I see many times the best friend fling themselves at the main character to be there whenever something goes wrong, but I loved seeing Hayley be there for Amelia too!
I also enjoyed the pacing of the novel. I really flew through it. (The chapters were definitely a little long though)
As for Jace and Hayley, to that I say “meh”. I didn’t necessarily feel that *intense chemistry* they claimed to have, but they weren’t bad for each other. I did appreciate that the third act break up had a valid reason but man, I seriously got whiplash during that chapters. (No spoilers here folks)
To me, the romance took the back burner in this story. I did not go into this expecting as much suspense as I was given. I’m actually kind of mad at myself for not putting the pieces together on the whole Levi situation. (Again, no spoilers here folks!) I feel like I would’ve absolutely FLEW through this book if it were a thriller. So, if you are reading this and your name is Sarah Douglas and you have a novel called “Maybe One Day”, I ask you kindly to turn your attention to a mystery novel. I would love you.
Overall, not terrible. Definitely an easy read and good attention grabber!
For starters, I would like to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the characters in this story. I really felt them come alive through the pages as if I knew them myself. I love how the author made Hayley and Amelia’s friendship so genuine. I think a lot of authors miss the mark on this. I see many times the best friend fling themselves at the main character to be there whenever something goes wrong, but I loved seeing Hayley be there for Amelia too!
I also enjoyed the pacing of the novel. I really flew through it. (The chapters were definitely a little long though)
As for Jace and Hayley, to that I say “meh”. I didn’t necessarily feel that *intense chemistry* they claimed to have, but they weren’t bad for each other. I did appreciate that the third act break up had a valid reason but man, I seriously got whiplash during that chapters. (No spoilers here folks)
To me, the romance took the back burner in this story. I did not go into this expecting as much suspense as I was given. I’m actually kind of mad at myself for not putting the pieces together on the whole Levi situation. (Again, no spoilers here folks!) I feel like I would’ve absolutely FLEW through this book if it were a thriller. So, if you are reading this and your name is Sarah Douglas and you have a novel called “Maybe One Day”, I ask you kindly to turn your attention to a mystery novel. I would love you.
Overall, not terrible. Definitely an easy read and good attention grabber!
February 9, 2023
ARC Review from NetGalley
This was such a fun and emotional read. Definitely recommend if you want a romance/suspenseful read.
A group of four friends are hit with a traumatic event, and now they’re trying to navigate it 2 years later.
Hayley, the main FC, ends up going to the same college where her childhood crush is and she wonders if they’ll ever fall in love or become anything.
But Jace can be so guarded towards her and she wonders why, but he also wants to protect Hayley. Their relationship is strained at times but looks like it’s going towards something good.
Then someone starts stalking/following Hayley on campus and she starts to live in fear of her life. Always looking over her shoulder. Will Jace and her ever end up together or will all the trauma they’ve endured be too much to be together and be honest with each other?
Love these tropes included in the book:
Slow burn, childhood crush, brothers best friend
This was such a fun and emotional read. Definitely recommend if you want a romance/suspenseful read.
A group of four friends are hit with a traumatic event, and now they’re trying to navigate it 2 years later.
Hayley, the main FC, ends up going to the same college where her childhood crush is and she wonders if they’ll ever fall in love or become anything.
But Jace can be so guarded towards her and she wonders why, but he also wants to protect Hayley. Their relationship is strained at times but looks like it’s going towards something good.
Then someone starts stalking/following Hayley on campus and she starts to live in fear of her life. Always looking over her shoulder. Will Jace and her ever end up together or will all the trauma they’ve endured be too much to be together and be honest with each other?
Love these tropes included in the book:
Slow burn, childhood crush, brothers best friend
September 24, 2023
I started reading the preview of this and I was hooked. I needed to buy the book right away and finish what I thought would be a quick read. But after reading more, I found myself not as interested. I wish the book was in dual POV because reading Jace's thoughts in the prologue is one of the reasons I got interested. But over time, I started seeing things I didn't like about the book.
Usually I stay away from wattpad books because of the cliches and the way their written. This book proved my point. I was just over the way Jace had something going on and then Hayley wouldn't want to address it until later. I liked the concept but it wasn't a strong enough story for me to like it. I also didn't like the fact that he liked her when she was only 16! Like you couldn't have made the age gap a little more comfortable or made her 18 or him 17??? like idk I hated that. Sorry to say that I skimmed the last quarter of the book. ALSO CLICHE THIRD ACT BREAK UP LIKE UGH
Usually I stay away from wattpad books because of the cliches and the way their written. This book proved my point. I was just over the way Jace had something going on and then Hayley wouldn't want to address it until later. I liked the concept but it wasn't a strong enough story for me to like it. I also didn't like the fact that he liked her when she was only 16! Like you couldn't have made the age gap a little more comfortable or made her 18 or him 17??? like idk I hated that. Sorry to say that I skimmed the last quarter of the book. ALSO CLICHE THIRD ACT BREAK UP LIKE UGH
September 18, 2023
This was a fine read! I was a little annoyed by the back and forth of the main male character, the stalker plot could have come with a trigger warning, but I’m all about OG love stories so it was an easy and quick read for me.
There is grief mixed in here, and you can feel, here and there, some “wattpad” vibes, but overall it was a mindless read that was a good distraction and didn’t drag on.
I felt like I got to know pieces of the characters, but when I thought I was learning more about them, I never learned anything else. I could see some very clear writing strategies play out, that I could appreciate, but some of it felt a little forced at times.
A solid 3/5 for me! I don’t have any really negative things to say! I would read another from her :)
There is grief mixed in here, and you can feel, here and there, some “wattpad” vibes, but overall it was a mindless read that was a good distraction and didn’t drag on.
I felt like I got to know pieces of the characters, but when I thought I was learning more about them, I never learned anything else. I could see some very clear writing strategies play out, that I could appreciate, but some of it felt a little forced at times.
A solid 3/5 for me! I don’t have any really negative things to say! I would read another from her :)
February 15, 2023
“I’m not saying it won’t be hard, us being together. I’ll probably piss you off sometimes, struggle to talk about the shit that matters, but you’re it for me. You’re my person.”
-brother’s best friend/best friend’s brother, friends to lovers, college setting
-there was just so much back and forth that it got somewhat frustrating
-deals with death and grief
-although the story dealt mostly about the Levi issue, I felt there could’ve been more between moments between Jace and Hayley
-the ending was sweet and I’m glad they got their happy ending
-thank you NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for this read ❤️
-brother’s best friend/best friend’s brother, friends to lovers, college setting
-there was just so much back and forth that it got somewhat frustrating
-deals with death and grief
-although the story dealt mostly about the Levi issue, I felt there could’ve been more between moments between Jace and Hayley
-the ending was sweet and I’m glad they got their happy ending
-thank you NetGalley and Wattpad WEBTOON Book Group for this read ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 18, 2023
For this being the authors first book (to my knowledge at least!), I thought it was great. I loved the characters and their growth/development both as individuals and a couple.
I ADORE Jace and love how strong and resilient Hayley is— I feel like I personally learned a lot of them through the book. I think the author did a good job at showing how people deal with trauma differently, and how important it is to communicate and not just push people away.
At times, I do feel like the story dragged on and the characters’ internal dialogue was extremely repetitive, but I still really enjoyed the book.
I ADORE Jace and love how strong and resilient Hayley is— I feel like I personally learned a lot of them through the book. I think the author did a good job at showing how people deal with trauma differently, and how important it is to communicate and not just push people away.
At times, I do feel like the story dragged on and the characters’ internal dialogue was extremely repetitive, but I still really enjoyed the book.
May 21, 2023
I looked forward to this before it came out. I assumed it would be an emotional journey, two people bonded through time and grief, coming out the other end to find love.
It was a huge miss. I found myself editing it in time with reading it. There was no building of the relationship until the end. We needed to read their moments of connection throughout the years, not just repeatedly read “they saved each other.” There’s one anecdote in the last chapter about sitting on a bedroom floor- that’s the kind of moment the author needed to provide in the start.
Had the bones for something special but didn’t deliver.
It was a huge miss. I found myself editing it in time with reading it. There was no building of the relationship until the end. We needed to read their moments of connection throughout the years, not just repeatedly read “they saved each other.” There’s one anecdote in the last chapter about sitting on a bedroom floor- that’s the kind of moment the author needed to provide in the start.
Had the bones for something special but didn’t deliver.
May 29, 2023
I'm a firm believer in buying Wattpad authors books and giving them a chance.
Thus, here is the review...
3/5 stars. The big foreshadow event of the book was too easy to guess. While I could connect with Hayley and what emotions she went through, a lot of the plot was a bit of a constant repeat.
The only thing I hadn't figured out until it was mentioned toward the end of the book was who the undercover cops were.
While the story was partly good, I could've done without the sexual scenes and skipped those entirely, but had to read them over when they mentioned a few things in relation to the subplots of the storyline.
Thus, here is the review...
3/5 stars. The big foreshadow event of the book was too easy to guess. While I could connect with Hayley and what emotions she went through, a lot of the plot was a bit of a constant repeat.
The only thing I hadn't figured out until it was mentioned toward the end of the book was who the undercover cops were.
While the story was partly good, I could've done without the sexual scenes and skipped those entirely, but had to read them over when they mentioned a few things in relation to the subplots of the storyline.
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