Book Review: Things We Never Got Over

I first saw Things We Never Got Over on BookTok (a category within TikTok where people share book-related content). Actually, it flooded my feed. I added it to my to-be-read pile, but then I saw it was also nominated for Goodreads Best Romance in 2022!

I had to see what the fuss was about. Clearly, this is a book that many readers enjoyed. Blending romance with small-town charm, this slow-burn, opposites-attract story could be the perfect read for those who want a heartwarming book. Especially if you are a fan of Luke from Gilmore Girls. So, let’s explore further in this Things We Never Got Over review.

Synopsis of Things We Never Got Over

Naomi Witt, a stranded runaway bride, recently fled her wedding after realizing her mistake in getting engaged to her now ex-fiancé. She then travels to Knockemout, Virginia to help her estranged twin sister, Tina. Upon arrival, however, Tina steals Naomi’s car and money, leaving her with a surprise: an 11-year-old niece named Waylay that she never knew existed. Now stranded in town with no car, job, plan, or home, Naomi must navigate her new life while caring for her young niece.

As Naomi tries to avoid new trouble and adapt to her new life with Waylay, she encounters Knox Morgan, the bearded bad-boy barber who prefers to live a peaceful, solitary life and doesn’t tolerate drama. Their bond evolves throughout the novel as they learn to open up to each other and face their personal challenges head-on.

As Naomi adjusts to her new life in the small town, she embraces her role as Waylay’s guardian and forms connections with the close-knit community. The town’s warmth and support play a crucial part in helping Naomi rebuild her life and find the courage to follow her heart.

Engaging Characters and Small-Town Charm

Narrated from the alternating perspectives of Naomi and Knox, the writing is engaging and heartfelt, with Lucy Score skillfully crafting dialogue and witty banter between characters. The small-town atmosphere adds delightful charm to the story, enveloping readers in a warm, close-knit community setting. Knox and Naomi’s grumpy-sunshine dynamic brings an endearing quality to the narrative, making their interactions all the more enjoyable.

One of the key elements in this novel is the focus on personal growth and the importance of overcoming past challenges. Naomi and Knox must confront their own issues and learn to trust one another. Their journey of self-discovery and healing adds depth to the story, making it a more immersive and relatable experience for readers.

With various themes and subplots, Things We Never Got Over also touches on the importance of family, friendship, and community support. The cast of secondary characters contributes to the richness of the story, providing a foundation for potential future novels in the series.

Pacing

Some readers may feel the book is longer than necessary, with a page count exceeding 500. While the extended length allows for gradual development of the characters and their relationships, it may be daunting for those who prefer shorter reads. Nonetheless, the pacing is generally well-balanced, and the story unfolds in a way that keeps readers engaged and invested in the outcome.

Final Thoughts

Things We Never Got Over offers a heartwarming and engaging journey of love, personal growth, and small-town enchantment. While it may not be a groundbreaking entry in the genre, it is a worthwhile read for fans of contemporary romance and those who appreciate slow-burn, opposites-attract dynamics. If you’re searching for a captivating story that will tug at your heartstrings and immerse you in a cozy, charming world, Lucy Score’s latest novel is definitely worth exploring.

If you found this review helpful, you can check out the book at Bookshop.org here and support local bookstores along the way!