Lucy Score’s “Things We Never Got Over” has been making waves in the contemporary romance world, and after diving into this much-hyped novel, it’s easy to see why. As the first book in the Knockemout series, it sets the stage for a town brimming with quirky characters and tangled relationships, drawing readers into a world they won’t want to leave.
This isn’t just another small-town romance; it’s a story packed with humor, heart, and heat. Score masterfully crafts a narrative around Naomi, a runaway bride who finds herself in Knockemout, Virginia, not for a honeymoon, but to rescue her troubled twin sister. What she finds instead is chaos, an unexpected niece, and Knox, the town’s resident grumpy barber.
A Town Like No Other: Setting the Scene in Knockemout
Knockemout is more than just a backdrop; it’s a character in itself. This isn’t your typical quaint small town. Disputes are settled with a good old-fashioned brawl and a beer, and everyone knows everyone’s business – and isn’t afraid to get involved. This rough-around-the-edges charm is what makes Knockemout so compelling and provides a unique setting for Naomi’s life to unravel and rebuild.
Meet the Main Players: Naomi and Knox
At the heart of “Things We Never Got Over” are Naomi and Knox, a duo that embodies the grumpy-sunshine trope with exceptional chemistry.
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Naomi: She arrives in Knockemout as a fish out of water – a former runaway bride turned unexpected guardian. Suddenly responsible for an 11-year-old niece she never knew existed, Naomi is resourceful, kind-hearted, and determined to make the best of a terrible situation. She’s also working as a cocktail server at the local Honky Tonk bar, adding another layer to her fish-out-of-water experience in this small town. Her romantic spirit clashes delightfully with Knox’s gruff exterior.
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Knox: The bearded, brooding barber of Knockemout prefers solitude and order. He takes his coffee black and his life drama-free – until Naomi crashes into his world. Knox is the epitome of the strong, silent type, a man of few words but decisive action. Beneath his grumpy facade lies a heart of gold, reluctantly drawn to Naomi’s chaotic charm.
Their initial interactions are anything but smooth. Knox is abrasive, and Naomi is immediately put off by his gruffness. However, their contrasting personalities spark an undeniable tension that escalates from banter to something much deeper.
Knox Morgan Character from Things We Never Got Over
Naomi Witt Character from Things We Never Got Over
Tropes Done Right: Grumpy/Sunshine and More
“Things We Never Got Over” excels in its use of beloved romance tropes, executing them with freshness and depth:
- Grumpy/Sunshine: Knox and Naomi are a masterclass in this trope. Knox’s perpetual grumpiness is balanced perfectly by Naomi’s unwavering optimism and warmth. Their interactions are consistently entertaining, filled with witty banter and simmering attraction.
- Age Gap: While not a significant age gap, there’s a noticeable difference that adds a layer to their dynamic. Knox’s more established, settled life contrasts with Naomi’s sudden upheaval, creating interesting power dynamics and growth opportunities.
- Small Town Romance: The close-knit community of Knockemout plays a vital role in the story. The nosy neighbors, the local bar, and the sense of everyone being intertwined amplify the drama and the humor.
- Enemies-to-Lovers: Their initial animosity, born from misunderstandings and clashing personalities, gradually melts into attraction and then love. This slow burn is expertly handled, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying.
Romance Tropes in Things We Never Got Over
More Than Just Romance: Layers of Storytelling
While the romance between Naomi and Knox is central, “Things We Never Got Over” delves into deeper themes:
- Family and Responsibility: Naomi’s unexpected guardianship of her niece Waylay forces her to confront responsibilities she never anticipated. This journey of becoming a caregiver adds emotional weight to the story.
- Past Trauma: Both Naomi and Knox carry baggage from their pasts. Naomi is running from a failed engagement and family drama, while Knox is dealing with his own emotional walls. Their individual traumas and how they help each other heal are significant aspects of the narrative.
- Community and Found Family: Knockemout, despite its rough edges, is a place where people look out for each other. Naomi finds herself embraced by this community, creating a found family that supports her through her challenges.
Found Family Theme in Things We Never Got Over
Why You Should Read “Things We Never Got Over”
“Things We Never Got Over” is a captivating read for several reasons:
- Engaging Characters: Naomi and Knox are flawed, relatable, and utterly compelling. Their chemistry leaps off the page, making their romance feel both earned and passionate.
- Witty Dialogue and Banter: Score’s writing is sharp and humorous. The banter between Naomi and Knox, as well as the interactions with the quirky townspeople, are consistently entertaining.
- Emotional Depth: Beneath the humor and romance, the book explores themes of family, trauma, and healing with sensitivity and depth, creating a story that resonates on multiple levels.
- Addictive Storytelling: Once you start “Things We Never Got Over,” it’s hard to put down. The pacing is excellent, the plot is engaging, and the world of Knockemout is incredibly immersive.
Lucy Score's Engaging Writing Style
Final Verdict: A Must-Read Romance
“Things We Never Got Over” is more than just hype; it’s a genuinely fantastic contemporary romance. Lucy Score has crafted a world and characters that are both memorable and deeply satisfying. If you’re a fan of grumpy/sunshine, small-town romances with a healthy dose of humor and heart, this book is an absolute must-read. Prepare to be charmed by Knockemout and fall in love with Naomi and Knox. You’ll be reaching for the rest of the Knockemout series before you know it.
Highly Recommended Romance Novel
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town Romance
Tropes: Grumpy/Sunshine, Enemies-to-Lovers, Age Gap, Found Family
Triggers: Mentions of abusive relationship, child abandonment, neglect to a child, robbery, violence, kidnapping (not by main characters)
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