Things We Never Got Over (Knockemout, #1) – A Heartfelt Reflection
As a devoted fan of Lucy Score’s previous works—especially the Benevolence series and the Bootleg Springs series—I eagerly anticipated diving into Things We Never Got Over. Her knack for crafting unforgettable characters and engaging narratives usually leaves me delighted. However, I must admit that this time, my heart feels heavier than usual after turning the last page.
Set in the quaint town of Knockemout, Virginia, the story unfolds with our heroine, Naomi, who finds herself in a whirlwind after abandoning her fiancé at the altar. Enter Knox Morgan, our not-so-charming “hero,” whose demeanor initially struck me as anything but heroic. I typically swoon for an emotionally complex alpha male, but Knox’s condescension and arrogance left me rattled. His interactions with Naomi felt jarring and often crossed the line into emotional disarray, leaving me grappling with the discomfort of his borderline narcissism.
The sibling dynamic between Knox and his brother Nash added another layer of complexity to the narrative. Knox’s behavior towards Nash, particularly following their lottery win, was both troubling and, in many moments, downright cruel. It pained me to see a character I admired—Nash, the honorable and steadfast chief of police—be subjected to Knox’s toxic bravado. It is through these relational tensions that Score showcases a resonant theme of the emotional burdens we carry, but at times, it felt more like an emotional slog.
I was captivated by Naomi’s resilience and her unwavering determination to provide a safe haven for her niece, Waylay. Watching their bond develop was perhaps the most endearing part of the story. Naomi’s character is painted with warmth, despite the onslaught of chaotic circumstances thrust upon her. I felt an emotional connection to her journey, especially as she selflessly sold her wedding dress to support Waylay’s needs. Her charming spunk and ability to stand up to Knox provided some delightful moments that burst with authenticity.
Despite these heartwarming elements, the pacing felt uneven, particularly in the early chapters. There were moments of genuine tension and creativity—like when Naomi bravely confronts her sister’s malevolence or when she gathers the courage to ignore Knox’s belittlement. But these highs were often followed by Knox’s erratic behavior that left me feeling whiplashed. His redeeming moments seemed too little, too late for my taste, quite frankly.
While the story concludes with a promise of a happily ever after, I couldn’t help but feel uneasy about their journey to that point. It left me wishing that Naomi had clung a bit more tightly to her self-worth. The emotional abuse and constant gaslighting were concerns that overshadowed any romantic tension.
Things We Never Got Over may resonate well with readers who enjoy exploring flawed relationships and love stories marked by personal struggle. For those who appreciate character growth—even from dubious starting points—there is a sense of satisfaction in seeing Knox attempt to change, albeit belatedly. As for me, while Knox may not have won me over, I found pockets of love and warmth in the community dynamics Score builds, promising that I will still turn the pages of the next Knockemout tale.
In the end, I find myself hopeful about future installments and curious about the journeys that await beyond Knox and Naomi. For now, I’ll just carry a bit of this narrative weight with me—a true testament to Score’s talent in crafting engaging stories that stir emotions, even when the path feels rocky.
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