Let me start by saying this book wrecked me in the best possible way. From the moment Naomi Witt crashes into Knockemout with nothing but a stolen car and an unexpected niece, I was hooked. Lucy Score creates a world so vivid, you'll swear you can smell the coffee from Grumpy's diner.

The slow-burn romance between Naomi and Knox is everything. I found myself yelling at my Kindle during their heated arguments, then swooning when Knox would do something unexpectedly sweet. Their chemistry isn't just sparks - it's a full-blown wildfire that takes its time to properly ignite.

What surprised me most was how real the parenting storyline felt. Watching Naomi stumble through caring for 11-year-old Waylay reminded me of my own awkward attempts at adulting. The way their relationship develops is one of the most heartwarming parts of the book.

The small-town setting deserves its own shoutout. Knockemout's quirky residents (looking at you, Stef and Wraith) made me wish I could move there. Score does an incredible job making the town feel like another character rather than just a backdrop.

Fair warning - keep tissues handy. This book swings from laugh-out-loud funny to gut-wrenchingly emotional in a single chapter. That scene with the dogs? I'm not crying, you're crying.

If you're tired of insta-love stories and want a romance that feels earned, with characters who actually grow, this is your next read. Just clear your schedule first - you won't want to put it down.