Some books leave you entertained, others make you think, and then there are stories that linger long after you’ve turned the last page. Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score falls into the latter category. As a romance novel with humor, heartbreak, and small-town charm, it’s one of those reads that sparks both comfort and conversation.
In this blog, I’ll share a Things We Never Got Over summary, explore its unforgettable characters, break down the themes, and even touch on the much-debated ending explained. I’ll also include a real-life case study on how readers connected with the book in book clubs and beyond.
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Things We Never Got Over Summary
At its core, Things We Never Got Over is about second chances and unexpected love. Naomi, a runaway bride who’s always been the responsible twin, suddenly finds herself stranded in a small town after her sister abandons her. What’s worse? She’s left with her niece to care for and no clear plan for what’s next.
Enter Knox, the broody barber who has no interest in drama or commitment. He’s the opposite of Naomi in every possible way—yet fate pushes them together.
This Things We Never Got Over summary only scratches the surface. What makes the book stand out is how Score layers humor, chemistry, and small-town dynamics into a heartfelt romance that keeps you flipping pages.
Things We Never Got Over Characters
One reason readers rave about this book is its vibrant cast. Here are the standouts:
Naomi – Compassionate, selfless, and relatable, she embodies the struggles of trying to do the right thing while juggling personal pain.
Knox – Moody and stubborn, but his protective side makes him unforgettable. He’s the archetypal grump with a heart of gold.
Waylay (Naomi’s niece) – A spark of mischief and honesty. Her dynamic with Naomi adds emotional weight to the novel.
The Things We Never Got Over characters feel like people you might meet in your own community. Their flaws, quirks, and evolving relationships give the story a pulse beyond romance alone.
Things We Never Got Over Themes
One of the reasons this book resonates so widely is its universal ideas. Some recurring Things We Never Got Over themes include:
Family obligations vs. personal freedom – Naomi’s constant pull between caring for others and living her own life.
Second chances – Both Naomi and Knox wrestle with whether they deserve love and happiness after past mistakes.
Community and belonging – The small-town setting highlights how neighbors can be both supportive and suffocating.
Resilience – From heartbreak to betrayal, each character proves that healing is possible.
For me, these themes made the story not just romantic, but relatable. Haven’t we all struggled between what we owe others and what we owe ourselves?
Without giving away major spoilers, let’s talk about the ending. Many readers search for a Things We Never Got Over ending explained because while it provides closure for Naomi and Knox, some threads remain open for sequels.
Score balances the romance payoff with realism. Life isn’t tied up neatly, and that’s part of the charm. For me, the ending worked because it left me hopeful, yet curious about what’s next. It’s a smart storytelling choice that mirrors how real relationships rarely follow a perfect script.
Book Analysis
From a literary perspective, here’s my Things We Never Got Over book analysis:
Strengths:
Engaging banter between characters.
Strong emotional arcs.
Blend of humor and tension keeps pacing lively.
Weaknesses:
Some side plots feel slightly stretched.
Knox’s grumpiness can overshadow softer moments at times.
Overall, this book shines because it delivers what romance readers crave—chemistry, heart, and a touch of chaos—while still being grounded in real struggles.
Real-Life Case Study: Book Club Reactions
When I first read this novel, I also followed along with a local romance book club online. Out of 15 members, nearly everyone admitted they related to Naomi’s struggle of putting others first. One woman shared that she was caring for her younger siblings after her parents’ divorce, and Naomi’s story felt like seeing her own life on the page.
Another member pointed out how Knox’s gruff personality mirrored someone she once dated, and it sparked a lively debate on whether “grumpy heroes” are charming or exhausting in real life.
This case study proves why the novel hits home—it doesn’t just entertain, it invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with love, family, and responsibility.
Lessons and Takeaways
So, what do we walk away with from Things We Never Got Over?
Love can surprise you when you least expect it.
Healing takes time, but support systems matter.
Sometimes, what feels like a burden (Naomi taking care of Waylay) can become a blessing.
It’s not just a romance—it’s a reminder of resilience, hope, and how we grow through relationships.
Final Thoughts
Lucy Score’s Things We Never Got Over is more than a romance—it’s a journey of growth, forgiveness, and second chances. With layered characters, relatable themes, and an ending that keeps readers talking, it’s easy to see why this book has sparked so much discussion.
If you’ve read it, I’d love to hear your thoughts—what part of the story stayed with you the most? Share in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation alive.
If you enjoy small-town romances, you might also love Romancing Mr Bridgerton, a timeless story full of charm and witty banter.
FAQs
What is the Things We Never Got Over about?
It’s about Naomi, a runaway bride, who finds love and challenges while raising her niece in a small town.
Is there spice in Things We Never Got Over?
Yes, the romance includes some spicy scenes, adding intensity to Naomi and Knox’s love story.
What is the order of Things We Never Got Over series?
The Knockemout series starts with Things We Never Got Over, followed by Things We Hide from the Light, then Things We Left Behind.
What is the spiciest book ever?
While subjective, many readers consider books like Fifty Shades of Grey among the spiciest romance novels.
Julius’s the resident literary connoisseur. He dissects classics and uncovers hidden gems. Expect his insights to enrich your reading journey, one page at a time.
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