Someday, Maybe

DEBUT Nwabineli’s first novel opens with Eve, who has recently lost her husband to suicide. With no note or obvious warning signs leading up to Quentin’s death, Eve’s grief is compounded by an unsuccessful search for the meaning behind her husband’s motives. Complicating the situation is her mother-in-law, who unequivocally blames her for Quentin’s suicide. Yet throughout this difficult journey Eve has the unwavering support of her family, who accept her actions with patience and understanding. This novel explores many challenging topics, from suicide to mental health to interracial marriage. The author spends much of the narrative describing the all-consuming grief after losing a loved one. While the descriptions of emotions ring true, most of the characters aside from Eve feel flat. Flashbacks of the couple’s courtship and marriage provide background on their relationship, but the author doesn’t offer deeper insight into Quentin’s reasons for killing himself.