Things We Never Got Over: A Refreshing Small-Town Escape
From the moment I stumbled upon Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score, I felt an undeniable pull—a curiosity to explore its vibrant characters and their messy lives. It promised a blend of small-town charm, romance, and a good dose of humor, and boy, did it deliver! In a world where we often get lost in the chaos of daily life, this book felt like an inviting hug.
At its heart, the story revolves around Knox, a solitary barber with a penchant for maintaining his peace, and Naomi, a runaway bride thrown into a whirlwind of unexpected responsibilities. It starts with Naomi’s ill-fated adventure—fleeing her wedding to rescue her estranged twin, only to find herself stranded in Knockemout, Virginia, with an eleven-year-old niece she never knew existed. Talk about a rough first day!
What struck me most was the way Lucy Score crafts her characters. Naomi is relatable yet flawed, embodying a spirit of resilience that tugged at my heartstrings. Knox, with his brooding demeanor and unfathomable depths, challenged Naomi in both practical and emotional ways. Their chemistry is electric, and the witty banter shared between them injected a delightful tension that kept me flipping pages late into the night. I found myself rooting for them through their hilarious misadventures, cringing at their mistakes, and ultimately celebrating their growth.
Score’s writing style is engaging and evocative. She seamlessly weaves humor with serious undertones, making it easy to connect with both the levity and gravity of the story. The pacing does start off a bit slow, but it builds beautifully, drawing you deeper into the lives of its characters. The emotional stakes rise steadily, keeping me invested in Naomi’s journey as she navigates her new life in a town that is as vibrant and quirky as the people who inhabit it.
One moment that resonated with me came when Naomi reflects on the things we never quite overcome in life—the heartaches, the regrets, the myriad of choices that shape us. It’s a thought-provoking theme cleverly interwoven throughout the book. As one of the reviewers beautifully put it, “Love can heal, if you let it.” This encapsulates the essence of Naomi and Knox’s relationship as they teach each other about vulnerability, trust, and the challenging yet rewarding nature of love.
Things We Never Got Over is a tale filled with relatable characters, thoughtful exploration of family and self-discovery, and enough laughter to brighten even your gloomiest days. It’s a perfect book for anyone who enjoys a little romance, a bit of drama, and a whole lot of heart.
If you’re looking for a story set in a turbulent yet charming small town, where the characters grow as much as the suspense surrounding them, I wholeheartedly recommend this delightful read. It left me feeling hopeful, reflective, and eager to dive into more of Lucy Score’s works. So grab a cup of coffee (or maybe a glass of wine), find a cozy spot, and let yourself get swept away in the chaos and warmth of Knockemout. You won’t regret it!