Is 'Maybe Not' A Sequel To 'Maybe Someday'?

I've been knee-deep in Colleen Hoover's books for years, and the connection between 'Maybe Someday' and 'Maybe Not' is one of those things fans debate over coffee. Here's the scoop: 'Maybe Not' isn't a traditional sequel—it's more of a companion novella that zooms in on Warren and Bridgette's explosive dynamic. While 'Maybe Someday' focuses on Ridge and Sydney's emotional, music-driven love story, 'Maybe Not' gives us a front-row seat to the chaotic, hate-to-love tension between two side characters who steal the show. It's like getting a bonus track on your favorite album; it doesn't advance the main plot but adds layers to the universe.

What makes 'Maybe Not' stand out is its tone. Where 'Maybe Someday' has this aching, poetic vibe (thanks to Ridge's songwriter soul), 'Maybe Not' is all sharp banter and simmering resentment that somehow morphs into chemistry. Warren's crude humor clashes with Bridgette's icy exterior, and their bedroom-wall-sharing setup forces them to confront their attraction. It's shorter, steamier, and way more volatile—a perfect palate cleanser if you needed a break from the heavier themes of the first book. Some readers even prefer it for its raw, unfiltered energy.

Now, do you need to read 'Maybe Someday' first? Technically no, since the plots are separate, but you’d miss the context. Warren’s loyalty to Ridge and Bridgette’s role as Sydney’s roommate make their stand-alone story richer if you know the backstory. Plus, seeing Warren go from comic relief to a layered lead is rewarding. The novella also subtly ties back to the original with cameos and shared moments, like the infamous apartment dynamics. Hoover’s smart like that—she makes spin-offs feel essential without rehashing old material. If you’re into messy, passionate relationships with a side of emotional whiplash, this one’s a no-brainer.