Let me start by saying this book was NOT what I expected. The cover made me think it'd be a fluffy, Hallmark-style romance, but boy was I wrong! Lucy Score delivers a story with real depth, humor, and sizzling chemistry that had me hooked from page one.
The dual POV is brilliantly executed - especially during the big conflict where we get to see both sides of the story. No cheap miscommunication tropes here! The characters actually feel like adults (they're in their 30s!) dealing with adult problems in mature ways.
Knox, our grumpy hero, had me alternating between wanting to shake him and swooning over him. His back-and-forth "I don't do commitment" act got slightly repetitive, but when he finally lets his guard down? *chef's kiss*
The small-town setting of Knockemout is its own character - quirky, charming, and full of memorable side characters. I especially loved the found family dynamic between Naomi and Waylay. Grab tissues for those scenes!
Is it unrealistic? Absolutely. But that's part of its charm. This is the literary equivalent of comfort food - warm, satisfying, and impossible to put down. Just don't start reading before bed unless you're prepared to lose sleep!
Pro tip: Clear your schedule before starting. I made the mistake of bringing this to work and spent the whole day sneaking chapters instead of working. Worth it.