Review: Things We Left Behind by Lucy Score

Things We Left Behind by Lucy Score
Series: Knockemout #3
Published by That's What She Said Publishing on September 5, 2023
Pages: 592
Genres: Romance


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There was only one woman who could set me free. But I would rather set myself on fire than ask Sloane Walton for anything.

Lucian Rollins is a lean, mean vengeance-seeking mogul. On a quest to erase his father’s mark on the family name, he spends every waking minute pulling strings and building an indestructible empire. The more money and power he amasses, the safer he is from threats.

Except when it comes to the feisty small-town librarian that keeps him up at night…

Sloane Walton is a spitfire determined to carry on her father’s quest for justice. She’ll do that just as soon as she figures out exactly what the man she hates did to—or for—her family. Bonded by an old, dark secret from the past and the dislike they now share for each other, Sloane trusts Lucian about as far as she can throw his designer-suited body.

When bickering accidentally turns to foreplay, these two find themselves not quite regretting their steamy one-night stand. Once those flames are fanned, it seems impossible to put them out again. But with Sloane ready to start a family and Lucian refusing to even consider the idea of marriage and kids, these enemies-to-lovers are stuck at an impasse.

Broken men break women. It’s what Lucian believes, what he’s witnessed, and he’s not going to take that chance with Sloane. He’d rather live a life of solitude than put her in danger. But he learns the hard way that leaving her means leaving her unprotected from other threats.

It’s the second time he’s ruthlessly cut her out of his life. There’s no way she’s going to give him a third chance. He’s just going to have to make one for himself.

Things We Left Behind is the third and final book in the Knockemout series, and I’ve been looking forward to the story behind Sloane and Lucian’s acrimonious relationship.

A small town librarian, Sloane is a spitfire who just wants to have a family, and she feels time is running out to find the man of her dreams. Lucian is more like the man of her nightmares. He is a powerful, wealthy businessman with questionable morals. Lucian and Sloane have a complicated history, but nobody knows why these former childhood friends are now diehard enemies.

Now, I love me some Lucy Score, but I did have some issues with the writing. Sloane’s obsession with Lucian’s large *ahem* took me aback. Why is an intelligent, beautiful, independent woman so d*ckmatized?? It’s demeaning. Good banter is my catnip, and there certainly is a lot of back and forth between Sloane and Lucian. However, their banter isn’t of the clever variety. It’s mean and redundant. Still, their fiery chemistry is undeniable. I couldn’t wait for them to admit their feelings for each other.

Lucian gives off an air of danger and mystery that is both intimidating and attractive. It’s great fun watching his tough guy persona get worn down. This story is a special treat for anyone who appreciates alpha males who are reduced to groveling for the women they love.

The camaraderie with their best friends Knox, Naomi, Nash, and Lina is highly enjoyable. I was happy to see those characters make a return and be so prominently featured.

Fun and sexy times aside, the story addresses the serious issue of domestic violence. I appreciated the thoughtful and realistic way it is portrayed. There is also an ominous death threat, which provides engaging suspense.

Goodbye, Knockemout. It’s been a wonderful trip.

Recommended for fans of:
Librarians
Alpha males
Small towns
Romantic suspense

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