This book is an absolute delight. Story of My Life by Lucy Score delivers a laugh-out-loud, heartwarming romance with all the elements that make for an unputdownable rom-com—grumpy/sunshine tension, witty banter, small-town charm, and a swoon-worthy slow burn.

When Hazel Hart, a romance writer on the verge of professional ruin, panic-buys a house in Story Lake, Pennsylvania, she expects inspiration. What she doesn’t expect is a crumbling fixer-upper or Cameron Bishop, the hot, broody contractor who seems allergic to fun but is impossible to ignore. Their dynamic is electric—Hazel’s chaotic energy meets Cam’s gruff reluctance, creating chemistry that crackles on every page.

Score nails the grumpy/sunshine trope. Cam is the textbook definition of a grump—gruff, reserved, and deeply loyal. His slow descent into completely smitten is ridiculously satisfying. Meanwhile, Hazel’s blend of resilience, humor, and sass makes her a standout heroine. Watching her reclaim her confidence—both personally and professionally—is just as rewarding as watching her melt Cam’s defenses.

Beyond the romance, the book is packed with unforgettable side characters, from Cam’s nosy but lovable family to Hazel’s fierce best friend, Zoey. The town of Story Lake itself is practically a character, bringing in all the charm of Gilmore Girls and Schitt’s Creek with its quirky townspeople, hilarious council meetings, and small-town antics.

Score also takes a fun, meta approach with Hazel’s writing journey, blending elements of her fictional romance with her real-life love story. The self-aware nods to rom-com tropes (including an outright rejection of the miscommunication trope) add an extra layer of cleverness to the narrative.

If you love slow-burn romance, banter that snaps, and a hero who falls hard (while being in total denial about it), this book is for you. Story of My Life is equal parts funny, steamy, and heartfelt—a perfect comfort read with characters that will stay with you long after the last page.