If there is one thing that Lucy Score nails with impeccable precision, it is her ability to create layered, complex characters that linger with you long after you turn the last page. Her latest novel, Things We Never Got Over, is a testament to this skill, weaving an intricate tapestry of love, forgiveness, and personal growth against the backdrop of a charming small-town setting.
An Emotional Journey through Small-Town Life
The story builds around Naomi Witt, who has escaped to the quaint town of Knockemout, Virginia, seeking solace from her disrupted life. Unfortunately, this quaint escape is marred by a troubled family situation that quickly escalates into chaos, as her estranged twin sister Tina abandons her daughter Waylay and vanishes, leaving Naomi responsible for the child.
Score masterfully crafts Naomi's character development, illustrating her journey from a woman overwhelmed by life’s challenges into a resilient figure who embraces unexpected motherhood with determination and courage. Naomi embodies a compelling contradiction of vulnerability and strength, making her a protagonist who readers can both empathize with and root for.
The Town with a Heart
The town of Knockemout plays an essential role in the narrative, almost as a character itself. Score skillfully paints its charm through colorful side characters who range from eccentric to genuinely heartwarming. Her exploration of small-town dynamics adds depth and humor to the story. It is in this setting that Naomi encounters Knox Morgan, a gruff yet compelling figure who introduces layers of complexity to the notions of love and trust.
Unexpected Allies and Romance
Knox, the rugged, standoffish local, is introduced as seemingly the opposite of Naomi. Yet, it is through their dynamic that Score examines the raw, authentic evolution of romance. Initially, Knox appears as an unwilling participant in Naomi's drama, but as the narrative unfolds, he becomes a pivotal anchor in her tumultuous life. Their relationship, bursting with fiery passion and tender moments, offers a realistic take on love's ability to transform and heal.
Score’s talent lies in her portrayal of the complexities within relationships, highlighting that love is often messy and filled with uncertainty, yet incredibly rewarding. The chemistry between Naomi and Knox radiates off the pages, making their journey a highlight of the book.
The Strength of Found Family
One of the novel's most beautiful aspects is the theme of "found family." Score expertly introduces characters that blend into Naomi and Waylay’s lives, creating a support system that reflects the novel's warm, enduring heart. The interactions among these characters provide comic relief, wisdom, and a sense of belonging that enhances the narrative's emotional depth.
Heartfelt Lessons
"Things We Never Got Over" carries profound insights on forgiveness, self-discovery, and healing from past wounds. The novel emphasizes the idea that while life may not always go as planned, the detours and mishaps can lead to unexpected, meaningful destinations. Naomi's evolution from the tied-up past into embracing a hopeful future serves as an inspirational backdrop that resonates deeply.
The themes of redemption and second chances drive the narrative forward, reminding us that it is never too late to rewrite our stories. Additionally, the exploration of unconditional love’s power to transform lives is woven through every interaction Naomi has, providing a much-needed upliftment in our often cynical world.
A Few Quibbles
While the bulk of the narrative is engrossing, the pacing at times can feel uneven. Some chapters delve deeply into Naomi's introspective journey, while others highlighted the more action-driven plot lines, momentarily detracting from the novel’s comprehensive flow. However, this does little to diminish the story's overall impact.
Overall, "Things We Never Got Over" is a compelling read that offers a heartwarming blend of romance, humor, and introspection. Lucy Score delivers a nuanced exploration of intimacy, underscoring the profound truth that sometimes, the family we choose can be just as healing as the one we're born into.
