Review of Story of My Life (Deluxe Edition) (Story Lake, 1)
By Lucy Score
As a devoted fan of small-town romances, the moment I heard about Lucy Score’s latest novel, Story of My Life, I knew I had to dive in. The whimsical allure of a romcom that melds elements of Gilmore Girls with Schitt’s Creek was irresistible. Plus, the premise of a struggling romance novelist buying a decrepit home and finding inspiration—and love—in a grouchy contractor? It was practically begging for my attention!
From the very first pages, we meet Hazel Hart, a once-successful romance author grappling with writer’s block after a painful breakup. The humor Score injects into Hazel’s struggles is both relatable and refreshing, particularly when she makes the impulsive decision to buy a historic (and utterly wrecked) home in the quaint town of Story Lake, Pennsylvania. It’s a bold move fueled by desperation and the hope of finding her creative spark again. I found myself laughing and cringing alongside her as she navigates the absurdities of her new life—like an incident involving a bald eagle that left more than just feathers in her cap!
But it’s not just the chaos of Hazel’s past that captures the heart; it’s the town itself and her evolving relationship with the grumpy contractor, Campbell "Cam" Bishop. As Hazel attempts to renovate her "spider museum" of a house, their banter sizzles with tension. Their chemistry ignites through witty repartee and poignant moments of vulnerability. I adored how their dynamic grew from humor-laden bickering to deeper emotional engagement, culminating in a relationship that felt authentic and beautifully messy.
Lucy Score’s writing style hits the sweet spot between comedic and heartfelt. The pacing is just right, allowing us to fully savor Hazel’s quirky escapades while also investing in the backstories of secondary characters. Each chapter is peppered with laugh-out-loud moments that kept me turning pages faster than I anticipated.
One quote that resonated with me was when Hazel muses about her struggles: “Sometimes, you have to tear down the walls to rebuild something beautiful.” This line perfectly encapsulates the core theme of resilience that runs throughout the novel. The story shines as Hazel discovers not only her passion for writing but also a supportive community and a love that challenges her to confront her fears.
The side characters are equally fabulous and quirky, from the colorful townsfolk to Cam’s supportive (and sometimes hilarious) brothers. Their antics add richness and humor to the narrative, making Story Lake feel like a place I wanted to settle into and call home myself.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Story of My Life to anyone looking for a light-hearted, engaging read that combines humor, romance, and a touch of emotional depth. Whether you’re an avid romance reader, a fan of small-town quirks, or simply in need of a delightful escape, this book will charm your socks off. It left me with a warm glow and a hint of nostalgia for those classic romance novels that remind us of life’s beautiful messiness. I’m already looking forward to diving into the next installment in this enchanting series!
You can find Story of My Life (Deluxe Edition) (Story Lake, 1) here >>