“Things We Never Got Over” by Lucy Score has readers everywhere buzzing—and for good reason. Imagine this: a runaway bride, a grumpy bad boy, a small town with more secrets than stoplights, and an unexpected niece thrown into the mix. The setup feels tailor-made for chaos, laughs, and maybe even a few tears. But at over 500 pages, does this beloved romance truly deliver, or does it drag its heels like a bad wedding toast?
This isn’t just another fluffy rom-com; Things We Never Got Over dives deep into themes of found family, healing from childhood wounds, and learning to prioritize yourself when everyone else wants a piece of you. It’s as heartfelt as hilarious, but that doesn’t mean it’s perfect. Some readers rave about the addictive writing and Knox Morgan’s undeniable charm, while others struggle with the pacing and the classic “third-act breakup” trope.
In this review, we’ll break it all down—what works, what doesn’t, and whether this book earns a spot on your must-read list. From Naomi’s journey of self-discovery to the small-town shenanigans that’ll make you wish Knockemout were real, we’ll cover everything you need to know. So, are Things We Never Got Over worth the hype? Let’s dig in and find out.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary of Things We Never Got Over
Small-town Virginia just got a whole lot messier. Naomi Witt didn’t just flee a wedding; she ran straight into chaos. Arriving in Knockemout to help her unreliable twin sister, Tina, she discovers she’s been royally duped. Tina’s already skipped town, stealing Naomi’s car, wallet, and dignity. Oh, and she left behind an 11-year-old surprise: her daughter, Waylay. Now Naomi, broke and blindsided, is stuck in a town full of nosy neighbors and has no idea what to do next.
Enter Knox Morgan: The Grumpy Rescuer
Knox Morgan isn’t your typical knight in shining armor. He’s more like the town’s grumpy, tattooed fixer-upper. When he first meets Naomi, he mistakes her for her chaotic twin and lets her know exactly what he thinks. Not a great start. But guilt—and maybe something else—pulls him back to help the stranded runaway bride. From snarky banter to reluctant partnership, Knox and Naomi quickly become entangled in each other’s messy lives.
Enemies-to-Lovers Meets Family Drama
What starts as fake dating to pacify Naomi’s parents spirals into a whirlwind of unexpected feelings. Their relationship is a cocktail of tropes: enemies-to-lovers, grumpy x sunshine, and fake dating. But it’s not just romance that drives the story. Naomi and Knox take on the challenge of raising Waylay, who’s toughened up by a rough childhood but begins to thaw under their care. Their dynamic with Waylay is just as touching as their slow-burn romance, adding layers of heart to the story.
Mystery, Mayhem, and Motherly Abandonment
There’s also the lingering question: why did Tina ditch her kid? As Naomi and Knox navigate their budding relationship, the story teases out the mystery of Tina’s motives. Is she gone for good, or is trouble brewing just around the corner? The suspense adds an extra layer of intrigue, keeping readers hooked beyond the romance.
Things We Never Got Over packs a punch with its blend of romance, drama, and small-town shenanigans. Whether it’s the fiery chemistry between Naomi and Knox or the heartwarming moments with Waylay, there’s never a dull moment in Knockout.
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Character Analysis of Things We Never Got Over
The characters in Things We Never Got Over breathe life into this small-town drama, each bringing their unique quirks, flaws, and growth arcs to the table. From reluctant heroes to sassy kids, this story gives you a full spectrum of personalities to root for—or roll your eyes at.
Naomi: The Reluctant Heroine
Naomi Witt starts as your textbook “good girl.” She’s organized, self-sacrificing, and the type to have a color-coded planner for her color-coded planners. But Knockemout has no time for perfect plans. Caring for Waylay forces Naomi to loosen up, go with the flow, and—shocker—start prioritizing her own happiness. By the end, she’s not just a caretaker or a list-maker; she’s a woman who knows what she deserves and isn’t afraid to claim it.
Knox: The Grumpy Protector
Knox Morgan? He’s the guy who grumbles about helping you but will still show up at 2 AM with a tire iron if you’re in trouble. Rough around the edges and armed with a snarky comment for every situation, Knox avoids emotional entanglements like the plague. But as the layers peel back, we see a man shaped by past wounds, trying to protect himself from future ones. His growth is subtle but satisfying—especially as he becomes a stable, loving presence for both Naomi and Waylay.
Waylay: The Sassy Scene-Stealer
Waylay, Naomi’s surprise niece, doesn’t trust easily—and can you blame her? With a mom like Tina, she’s had to grow up too fast. But under Naomi’s care (and Knox’s gruff affection), Waylay starts to blossom. Her sass is as sharp as her survival instincts, but her journey is about more than just adapting to stability; it’s about learning to trust and feel safe. Watching her transformation is one of the most heartwarming parts of the book.
Supporting Cast: The Knockemout Crew
The small-town charm of Knockemout isn’t just about quirky storefronts and meddlesome neighbors. The community here feels like a character in itself. From Knox’s meddling family to Naomi’s hilarious mom, these side characters create a “found family” dynamic that’s both comforting and chaotic. They’re not perfect, but they’re exactly what Naomi and Waylay need.
Relationships That Shine
Naomi and Knox: Sparks and Snark
Enemies-to-lovers. Grumpy x sunshine. Call it what you want, but Naomi and Knox’s dynamic is electric. Their banter alone is worth the read, but it’s their gradual vulnerability that makes this relationship so compelling.
Naomi and Waylay: Learning Together
Naomi didn’t sign up to be a guardian, but she steps up in a way that feels authentic. Her relationship with Waylay is full of trial and error, but the bond they build is unshakable.
Knox and Waylay: The Surprise Softie
Knox’s gruff exterior cracks wide open when it comes to Waylay. Their interactions are pure gold—funny, touching, and unexpectedly sweet. Watching Knox become the father figure Waylay never had is a highlight of the story.
With its unforgettable cast and nuanced character arcs, Things We Never Got Over offers more than just romance. It’s a story about growth, resilience, and the messy beauty of human connections.
Strengths of Things We Never Got Over
Lucy Score’s Things We Never Got Over isn’t just another small-town romance—it’s a masterclass in balancing charm, humor, and depth. The book hooks readers with its fast-paced writing, keeps them laughing with witty dialogue, and surprises them with emotional depth. Let’s break down what makes this book so addictive.
Captivating Writing That Pulls You In
Lucy Score knows how to craft a page-turner. Her writing is sharp, engaging, and utterly immersive. The pacing? Perfect. The humor? Spot on. Reviewers rave about how easy it is to lose hours in this book, thanks to its snappy dialogue and fluid storytelling. If you pick it up expecting to read “just one chapter,” good luck—you’ll be halfway through before you realize it.
Characters You’ll Either Love or Love to Hate
Complex and Relatable Leads
Naomi and Knox aren’t your cookie-cutter romance protagonists. Naomi’s journey from a self-sacrificing “good girl” to someone who learns to prioritize herself is genuinely inspiring. And Knox? Sure, he’s gruff and a little rough around the edges, but his soft side sneaks up on you. Their chemistry is undeniable, and watching them clash, banter, and grow together is a delight.
Supporting Cast Steals the Show
From Waylay, the sassy and surprisingly wise niece, to the quirky residents of Knockemout, the supporting characters are just as engaging as the leads. They add layers of humor, warmth, and chaos that make the town feel alive. You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, and you’ll want to pack your bags for Knockemout.
The Ideal Mix of Humor, Heart, and Passion
Laugh-Out-Loud Moments
Lucy Score doesn’t hold back on the humor. Whether it’s Naomi’s awkward encounters, Knox’s deadpan remarks, or the town’s over-the-top shenanigans, there’s plenty to chuckle over.
Emotional Depth That Hits Hard
But this book isn’t all laughs. It dives into heavier topics like childhood trauma, abandonment, and the fear of attachment. These themes add weight and substance, elevating the story beyond a simple romance.
Slow-Burn Romance That Sizzles
And let’s not forget the steam. The slow build between Naomi and Knox is as frustrating as it is delicious. By the time things heat up, you’re more than ready for it. The payoff? Worth the wait.
A Small Town You’ll Wish You Could Visit
Knockabout, Virginia, feels like more than just a setting—it’s a character in itself. The cozy, close-knit vibe of the town enhances every aspect of the story, from the community’s meddling antics to its heartwarming support for Naomi and Waylay.
Why It All Works
Things We Never Got Over nails the balance between humor, heart, and heat, offering readers a deeply satisfying experience. It’s not just about the romance (though that’s fantastic); it’s about the messy, beautiful ways people grow, heal, and connect. Whether you’re here for the laughs, the love, or the life lessons, this book delivers.
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Critiques of Things We Never Got Over
Even the most beloved books have their rough edges, and Things We Never Got Over isn’t exempt. While Lucy Score’s novel has charmed many readers, there are a few stumbling blocks that might give some people pause.
It’s a Chunky Read
Too Many Pages, Not Enough Punch
Several readers agree on one thing: this book is long. Like, “could’ve-lost-150-pages-and-been-fine” long. For some, the length makes the pacing feel sluggish, especially in the first half. If you’re someone who needs instant engagement, be warned—it takes over 200 pages for the story to hit its stride.
Drama Overload
The second half of the book cranks up the drama to soap opera levels, and not everyone’s here for it. One reviewer called the conflicts “outrageous” and unnecessary, which might leave you rolling your eyes instead of clutching your heart.
Character and Trope Missteps
Immature Vibes
Knox and Naomi are supposed to be adults, but some readers found their behavior closer to that of squabbling teens. The banter, while entertaining to many, occasionally veers into cringe territory, especially for those expecting a more grounded dynamic.
Trope Trouble
The “enemies to lovers” trope is a big draw here, but not everyone loves how it’s handled. Some felt it was too much, with Knox’s grumpiness and Naomi’s sunshiney optimism clashing in a way that felt overplayed.
The “Love It or Loathe It” Third Act Breakup
The dreaded third-act breakup strikes again. While Knox’s baggage makes his actions understandable, the resolution felt dragged out to some. If you’re a romance reader who rolls your eyes at this well-worn trope, brace yourself—it’s here in full force.
Is It for Everyone?
Not quite. Readers wary of single-parent tropes or slow-starting stories might find Things We Never Got Over a challenge. That said, its popularity suggests it still wins over even the skeptics.
Upcoming Books in the Knockout Series
Lucy Score fans, rejoice! Things We Never Got Over was just the beginning. The Knockemout series is expanding, and there’s plenty to look forward to. Here’s what we know about the next installments, based on the latest info.
Book 2: Things We Hide from the Light
Nash and Lena Take Center Stage
Knox’s brother Nash steps into the spotlight for the sequel, and this time, he’s paired with Lena—introduced in Things We Never Got Over as a potential neighbor of Nash. The romance? Guaranteed to bring a mix of sparks and swoons. Fun fact: the cover’s a vibrant pink, so we’re already feeling those softer, romantic vibes.
Book 3: A Grumpy Billionaire? Yes, Please
Meet “Lucy” (Or So We Think)
The third book is still a bit of a mystery, but here’s the tea: it revolves around a character nicknamed Lucy, who’s a “grumpy billionaire.” Intriguing, right? While details are scarce, this purple-covered installment already has fans buzzing with anticipation. If grumpy billionaires are your thing (and honestly, who can resist?), this one’s a must-watch.
Beyond Book 3: More Knockemout
The Series Isn’t Stopping Anytime Soon
Lucy Score isn’t done with Knockemout yet. She’s confirmed that more books are in the works beyond these two upcoming titles. While we don’t have release dates or plot specifics, it’s safe to say this small-town universe is growing—and we’re here for it.
Final thoughts
Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score is a heartfelt yet humorous tale of love, resilience, and the complexities of family. With its dynamic characters, engaging small-town setting, and a blend of laugh-out-loud moments and emotional depth, it’s easy to see why readers are captivated. However, its chunky length and reliance on some well-worn tropes might not appeal to everyone. If you’re in the mood for a slow-burn romance that combines chaos, charm, and growth, this book is worth a spot on your reading list.
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