Things We Never Got Over

From its very first pages, "Things We Never Got Over" immerses the reader in the small, tight-knit community of Knockemout, Virginia, a place brimming with quirky characters and an undercurrent of both humor and hardship. The narrative centers on Naomi Witt, who arrives in town after her estranged twin sister, Tina, steals her car, her savings, and leaves Naomi's eleven-year-old niece, Waylay, in her care. This abrupt upheaval forces Naomi, a meticulously organized wedding planner, to confront a life entirely at odds with her carefully constructed plans. Score excels at painting a vivid picture of this setting, making Knockemout feel less like a backdrop and more like an active participant in the story, its rhythms and eccentricities shaping the lives of its inhabitants.

The novel's central relationship blossoms between Naomi and Knox Morgan, a gruff, heavily tattooed bar owner who initially wants nothing to do with her or her sudden arrival. Their dynamic is a classic enemies-to-lovers trope, but it is executed with a refreshing wit and genuine emotional depth that transcends mere cliché. Knox, despite his formidable exterior, carries a hidden tenderness that Score skillfully reveals through his actions and internal monologues. Naomi, in turn, proves to be more resilient and capable than her initial impression suggests, navigating the challenges of sudden motherhood and small-town skepticism with a burgeoning strength. Their banter is sharp, and their emotional connection, though slow-burn, feels earned.

Score's prose is accessible and propulsive, driving the story forward with a confident hand. She manages to balance moments of laugh-out-loud humor with scenes of genuine pathos, creating a reading experience that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The supporting cast, from Knox's colorful friends to the various townspeople, are well-drawn and contribute significantly to the novel's charm, preventing the narrative from feeling solely centered on the two protagonists. Their individual quirks and loyalties underscore the novel’s overarching theme of found family and the unexpected bonds that form in the crucible of adversity.

While the novel largely succeeds in its aims, it occasionally leans too heavily on established romance tropes, particularly in the later stages of the narrative. The resolution of certain conflicts, while satisfying, can feel a touch too convenient, undermining some of the hard-won emotional authenticity established earlier. There are moments where the plot contrivances, especially those surrounding Tina's ongoing machinations, stretch credulity, serving more as catalysts for drama than organic developments. A slightly more nuanced approach to these external pressures might have elevated the narrative further, allowing the characters' internal struggles to take even greater precedence.

Ultimately, "Things We Never Got Over" is a testament to the power of human connection and the unexpected places we find solace and love. It is a book that celebrates the messiness of life, the beauty of second chances, and the profound impact of community. Despite its occasional reliance on familiar narrative beats, Lucy Score has crafted an engaging and heartfelt story that will resonate with readers who enjoy character-driven romance with a strong sense of place. It is a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming challenges, the right people can help us build a life more vibrant and fulfilling than we ever dared to imagine.