I heard this book was big on Booktok, but I do not have TikTok and was solely influenced by the book placement at my local Barnes & Noble. I wasn't familiar with the author, but this first book in the series kept calling to me. I was not disappointed that I gave it a try. 

This story starts with Naomi having what could best be called an all-time, worst day ever. She's a runaway bride, her twin sister called her frantically for help, only to steal her car, money, and clothes, and then surprise her by caring for her 11-year-old niece, whom she didn't even know existed. And on top of that, everyone in town keeps telling her she's unwelcome. And then a brooding, Viking of a man keeps yelling at her. So it's a pretty rough day. 

That might sound like this story is over-the-top full of tropes, but it's not. This story follows a light enemies-to-lovers trope. Knox Morgan hates Naomi Witt almost as much as he's attracted to her. But yet he keeps finding himself helping her. Naomi won't deny she's attracted to Knox, but she doesn't get why he hates her. But she doesn't have time to worry about that. She's frantically trying to earn money and also attempting to care for an 11-year-old. 

I was unsure about this story because of the parenting aspect, but if you're on the fence like me, you should give this a try. Waylay is a precocious, intelligent, and clever young girl. It was heartwarming to see Naomi parent as best she can, and to see Waylay experience true kindness and consideration. 

The bulk of the action of this story is in the back half. It does get pretty steamy, but it never felt like it overtook the story. The characters are well-developed and there are two other books in the Knockemout series that follow other future couples. 

One of my favorite aspects of this story is that it follows middle-aged adults. Knox and Naomi are both grown adults who have experienced both the highs and lows of life. I think had I read this when I was younger, I'm not sure if I would have enjoyed it as much or related to Naomi so heavily. But now, as someone who is 40 years old, I really relate to her character and Knox. 

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a love story in a crazy (in a good way) small town with lots of heart, laughs, and maybe a few punches.