Finally Mine by Lucy Score

*** My Review ***

“Finally Mine” by Lucy Score is a captivating and emotional romance novel that delves into the themes of healing, self-discovery, and second chances. The story follows Gloria, a woman who has recently escaped from a toxic and abusive relationship, as she navigates her journey towards reclaiming her life and finding love. Enter Aldo Moretta, a charismatic hometown hero who has always harbored feelings for Gloria. When Aldo’s deployment is cut short due to an injury, Gloria becomes the hero in their relationship, supporting both of them through their respective traumas.

The book beautifully explores Gloria’s transformation from a scarred and broken individual to a strong and independent woman. The author tackles the topic of domestic violence with sensitivity and authenticity, shedding light on the complexities of abusive relationships and the importance of personal agency in breaking free. While some reviewers criticize Aldo and the town for not intervening earlier, the book realistically portrays the reality that only Gloria could make the decision to leave her abusive partner. Gloria’s character development is commendable, and readers will root for her as she rediscovers herself and embarks on a journey of self-love and acceptance.

The romance between Gloria and Aldo is heartwarming and filled with tender moments. Aldo’s charm and unwavering support for Gloria make him a swoon-worthy hero. Their second chance at love is portrayed with depth and authenticity, and readers will be invested in their journey towards happiness. The book also explores the challenges faced by Aldo, who is adjusting to life with an amputated limb and dealing with the emotional aftermath of his injury. This adds another layer of depth to the story and highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in relationships.

One aspect that some readers may find detracts from their overall enjoyment of the book is the pacing. The story drags on at times, with some repetitive material from the previous book in the series. Additionally, the third-act breakup may disappoint readers who felt that the book was an improvement over its predecessor. However, despite these minor flaws, the book manages to deliver a satisfying romance that will tug at readers’ heartstrings.

While some readers found the book to be heavy with emotions, the author’s inclusion of therapy and the characters’ willingness to seek help is a commendable aspect. It reinforces the importance of mental health and demonstrates that healing is a process that requires support and professional guidance. By incorporating these elements into the story, Lucy Score portrays a realistic and responsible approach to addressing trauma and its aftermath.

Furthermore, the author’s ability to evoke a range of emotions from readers is commendable. The book is not afraid to delve into heavy emotional territory, addressing topics such as domestic violence, PTSD, and the challenges of recovery. Lucy Score handles these sensitive subjects with care, highlighting the importance of therapy and emotional support in the healing process. The raw emotions portrayed by the characters make their triumphs and moments of happiness all the more impactful. Readers will find themselves laughing, crying, and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions as they journey alongside Gloria and Aldo.

One aspect that may not resonate with all readers is the choice of third-person point of view. While it does not detract from the overall quality of the book, some readers may prefer a more intimate first-person perspective. However, this is a minor preference that does not overshadow the engaging storyline and well-crafted characters.

Despite the book being part of a series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. While some readers noted that they felt they missed some context by not reading the first book, “Finally Mine” offers enough backstory and references to previous events to allow new readers to fully immerse themselves in the story. However, for those who enjoyed this installment, going back to read the first book in the series may provide a deeper understanding of the interconnected stories and relationships.

The supporting cast of characters adds humor and warmth to the story. From the quirky and lovable Mrs. Moretta, who brings a touch of humor to the story, to the ensemble of townspeople, the supporting cast enhances the overall reading experience and adds depth to the narrative. Lucy Score’s ability to create well-rounded and relatable characters contributes to the immersive nature of the book. The small-town setting also contributes to the charm of the story, appealing to readers who enjoy the cozy atmosphere of such romances.

In conclusion, “Finally Mine” is a touching and emotionally charged romance novel that tackles important themes of healing, self-discovery, and love after trauma. Lucy Score’s skillful storytelling and well-developed characters make this book a delightful read. Despite some pacing issues and repetitive elements, the book shines in its portrayal of Gloria’s journey towards empowerment and Aldo’s unwavering support. Fans of small-town romance, military romance, and character-driven stories will find much to love in this heartfelt tale.