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Rock Bottom Girl
“You may be faking the relationship, but you’re not faking the orgasms.”
Downsized, broke, and dumped, 38-year-old Marley sneaks home to her childhood bedroom in the town she couldn’t wait to escape twenty years ago. Not much has changed in Culpepper. The cool kids are still cool. Now they just own car dealerships and live in McMansions next door. Oh, and the whole town is still talking about that Homecoming she ruined her senior year.
Desperate for a new start, Marley accepts a temporary teaching position. Can the girl banned from all future Culpepper High Homecomings keep the losing-est girls soccer team in school history from killing each other and prevent carpal tunnel in a bunch of phone-clutching gym class students?
Maybe with the help of Jake Weston, high school bad boy turned sexy good guy. When the school rumor mill sends Marley to the principal’s office to sign an ethics contract, the tattooed track coach, dog dad, and teacher of the year becomes her new fake boyfriend and alibi—for a price. The Deal: He’ll teach her how to coach if she teaches him how to be in a relationship.
Who knew a fake boyfriend could deliver such real orgasms? But it’s all temporary. The guy. The job. The team. There’s too much history. Rock bottom can’t turn into a foundation for happily ever after. Can it?
Warning: Story also includes a meet-puke, a bouffanted nemesis, a yard swan and donkey basketball, a teenage-orchestrated makeover, and a fake relationship that gets a little too real between the sheets.
Downsized, broke, and dumped, 38-year-old Marley sneaks home to her childhood bedroom in the town she couldn’t wait to escape twenty years ago. Not much has changed in Culpepper. The cool kids are still cool. Now they just own car dealerships and live in McMansions next door. Oh, and the whole town is still talking about that Homecoming she ruined her senior year.
Desperate for a new start, Marley accepts a temporary teaching position. Can the girl banned from all future Culpepper High Homecomings keep the losing-est girls soccer team in school history from killing each other and prevent carpal tunnel in a bunch of phone-clutching gym class students?
Maybe with the help of Jake Weston, high school bad boy turned sexy good guy. When the school rumor mill sends Marley to the principal’s office to sign an ethics contract, the tattooed track coach, dog dad, and teacher of the year becomes her new fake boyfriend and alibi—for a price. The Deal: He’ll teach her how to coach if she teaches him how to be in a relationship.
Who knew a fake boyfriend could deliver such real orgasms? But it’s all temporary. The guy. The job. The team. There’s too much history. Rock bottom can’t turn into a foundation for happily ever after. Can it?
Warning: Story also includes a meet-puke, a bouffanted nemesis, a yard swan and donkey basketball, a teenage-orchestrated makeover, and a fake relationship that gets a little too real between the sheets.
532 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2019
About the author
Lucy Score
66 books49.4k followersLucy Score is an instant #1 New York Times bestselling author. She grew up in a literary family who insisted that the dinner table was for reading and earned a degree in journalism.
She writes full-time from the Pennsylvania home she and Mr. Lucy share with their obnoxious cat, Cleo. When not spending hours crafting heartbreaker heroes and kick-ass heroines, Lucy can be found on the couch, in the kitchen, or at the gym.
She hopes to someday write from a sailboat, oceanfront condo, or tropical island with reliable Wi-Fi.
Sign up for her never annoying newsletter at https://www.lucyscore.net/subscribe-l....
She writes full-time from the Pennsylvania home she and Mr. Lucy share with their obnoxious cat, Cleo. When not spending hours crafting heartbreaker heroes and kick-ass heroines, Lucy can be found on the couch, in the kitchen, or at the gym.
She hopes to someday write from a sailboat, oceanfront condo, or tropical island with reliable Wi-Fi.
Sign up for her never annoying newsletter at https://www.lucyscore.net/subscribe-l....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,559 reviews
April 2, 2022
the best thing about finding a new fav author is that you can binge read their whole backlist. 😌
May 21, 2020
I loved this book so much. I’m reading too many thrillers and dark romances so this is a fresh genre change. So far it’s real good romcom and I really had a wonderful time while I’m connecting with characters.
Marley seems like hard time and her old town folks may define her looser but it’s a big wrong definition. She has been bullied through her high school time but she has never been a simple doormat victim. She has stood for herself, she has used her wits, she hasn’t hesitated to fight dirty. She has been heartbroken because of our hero ( later we see our hero is innocent and our heroine was just manipulated by the villain of the story)and that was the reason of her insecurities.
By losing herself she’s turning back to her roots for finding herself and becoming whole.
Here are the definition with her psychological condition with her on words when she starts her journey:
“I reached for the stars so many times and being smacked back down by tennis racket of fate!”
On the other hand, our hero Jack is a little naive, small town boy, immature but sexy as hell and he knows what he wants. He wants Marley forever and he’s determined enough not to take no for an answer.( Sometimes I thought why he didn’t have any commitment in his life, he’s hot, he’s natural seducer and good lover, yeah he’s quite a catch so it was a little unrealistic for me)
Some parts of book made me laugh out so loud ! Especially after party part, when Marley and Jack woke up in Marley’s room as Jake wore her daddy’s shorts.
I also got emotional when I read Marley’s makeover part and her teams’ support and they’re bonding unconditionally.
This is so much heartwarming, entertaining and smartly written rom com and I really enjoyed every little word, every page of it.
I start to download the other books of Lucy Score and so excited to find a real good new romance writer 😊
PS. Don’t skip the bonus part! I also enjoyed it so much!
Marley seems like hard time and her old town folks may define her looser but it’s a big wrong definition. She has been bullied through her high school time but she has never been a simple doormat victim. She has stood for herself, she has used her wits, she hasn’t hesitated to fight dirty. She has been heartbroken because of our hero ( later we see our hero is innocent and our heroine was just manipulated by the villain of the story)and that was the reason of her insecurities.
By losing herself she’s turning back to her roots for finding herself and becoming whole.
Here are the definition with her psychological condition with her on words when she starts her journey:
“I reached for the stars so many times and being smacked back down by tennis racket of fate!”
On the other hand, our hero Jack is a little naive, small town boy, immature but sexy as hell and he knows what he wants. He wants Marley forever and he’s determined enough not to take no for an answer.( Sometimes I thought why he didn’t have any commitment in his life, he’s hot, he’s natural seducer and good lover, yeah he’s quite a catch so it was a little unrealistic for me)
Some parts of book made me laugh out so loud ! Especially after party part, when Marley and Jack woke up in Marley’s room as Jake wore her daddy’s shorts.
I also got emotional when I read Marley’s makeover part and her teams’ support and they’re bonding unconditionally.
This is so much heartwarming, entertaining and smartly written rom com and I really enjoyed every little word, every page of it.
I start to download the other books of Lucy Score and so excited to find a real good new romance writer 😊
PS. Don’t skip the bonus part! I also enjoyed it so much!
May 20, 2022
4 stars
Rock Bottom Girl was a funny, sweet, and steamy slow burn romance that I truly enjoyed listening to. I’ve read a few Lucy Score books and I think this one is my favorite of hers so far. It gave me some MZ vibes (I think it was the sports/slow burn aspects) and I adored it!
Marley is 38 years old and she’s back living with her parents. She’s had a bad run of luck lately, and is looking for a fresh start, a way to get back on her feet before she goes back out into the world. She takes a temporary job as a high school gym teacher and soccer coach and her alma mater. At first, it’s a bit of a mess, well… she’s a bit of a mess. With the help of a few good friends, and her old flame Jake, she might just be able to turn things around.
Jake Weston was Marley’s crush and they shared one passionate kiss in high school but that was it. Now that they’re adults and teaching at the same school, the sparks are flying. This book had one of my favorite troupes. The fake dating troupe. Marley and Jake pretend to date for both of their benefits… but of course, it turns into so much more.
The audiobook was narrated by Natalie Duke and Stephen Dexter and it was so much fun to listen to. I found myself laughing and smiling so big throughout it. It was such a feel good book. I’m looking forward to reading more from Lucy Score and I definitely recommend this one!
Rock Bottom Girl was a funny, sweet, and steamy slow burn romance that I truly enjoyed listening to. I’ve read a few Lucy Score books and I think this one is my favorite of hers so far. It gave me some MZ vibes (I think it was the sports/slow burn aspects) and I adored it!
Marley is 38 years old and she’s back living with her parents. She’s had a bad run of luck lately, and is looking for a fresh start, a way to get back on her feet before she goes back out into the world. She takes a temporary job as a high school gym teacher and soccer coach and her alma mater. At first, it’s a bit of a mess, well… she’s a bit of a mess. With the help of a few good friends, and her old flame Jake, she might just be able to turn things around.
Jake Weston was Marley’s crush and they shared one passionate kiss in high school but that was it. Now that they’re adults and teaching at the same school, the sparks are flying. This book had one of my favorite troupes. The fake dating troupe. Marley and Jake pretend to date for both of their benefits… but of course, it turns into so much more.
The audiobook was narrated by Natalie Duke and Stephen Dexter and it was so much fun to listen to. I found myself laughing and smiling so big throughout it. It was such a feel good book. I’m looking forward to reading more from Lucy Score and I definitely recommend this one!
I loved and was loved. And that was the most important thing in the world.
February 15, 2021
4 Stars!
... Just keep swimming, Marley.
A fish named Dory once said, "When life gets you down, do you wanna know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming."
I enjoyed this book so much! It reminded me of classic Dory and Marlin and their amazing journey. Jake is my Dory, optimistic and funny, and Marley is my Marlin, determined and a tad worrisome. Great storyline, great characters. Rock Bottom Girl kept me swimming and laughing at the same time until the end.
Note: This is a fake dating, romantic comedy.
A 38 year old Marley was back in Culpepper, Pennsylvania, her hometown. She's homeless, broke, jobless and was looking for a fresh start. She was hired as a temporary soccer coach and a gym teacher in her former school. There, she met her pasts. Amie Jo, her teenage bully and the wife of her ex-boyfriend, Travis. And the boy whom she once adored, Jake.
Jake was a history teacher at the same school Marley was coaching. An incident caused them to pretend that they were in a relationship. They agreed with conditions. Jake had to help her with teaching and coaching, and Marley had to help him navigate a monogamous relationship. But Jake later realized that he wanted more. Permanently. Marley had issues about her past relationship with him that she never trusted his feelings for her. And then she had to leave. Was Jake worthy enough to give up her dreams for a life with him?
I loved the main characters as well as the secondary characters. They made the story more interesting and lively. There were just things that I found unbelievable. Like how a 38 year old woman acts and thinks like a teenager at times. And also, the part where she blamed herself for losing a game. She's 38 and experienced, and just one loss she abandoned everything? But I loved that she kept swimming till she found herself and became a person I wanted her to be.
I recommend this to those who likes: Lucy Score, romantic comedy, fake dating, small town, slow burn, bully, sports, high school, friends to lovers, tattooed and bad boy heroes, and a happy ever after.
... Just keep swimming, Marley.
A fish named Dory once said, "When life gets you down, do you wanna know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming."
I enjoyed this book so much! It reminded me of classic Dory and Marlin and their amazing journey. Jake is my Dory, optimistic and funny, and Marley is my Marlin, determined and a tad worrisome. Great storyline, great characters. Rock Bottom Girl kept me swimming and laughing at the same time until the end.
Note: This is a fake dating, romantic comedy.
A 38 year old Marley was back in Culpepper, Pennsylvania, her hometown. She's homeless, broke, jobless and was looking for a fresh start. She was hired as a temporary soccer coach and a gym teacher in her former school. There, she met her pasts. Amie Jo, her teenage bully and the wife of her ex-boyfriend, Travis. And the boy whom she once adored, Jake.
Jake was a history teacher at the same school Marley was coaching. An incident caused them to pretend that they were in a relationship. They agreed with conditions. Jake had to help her with teaching and coaching, and Marley had to help him navigate a monogamous relationship. But Jake later realized that he wanted more. Permanently. Marley had issues about her past relationship with him that she never trusted his feelings for her. And then she had to leave. Was Jake worthy enough to give up her dreams for a life with him?
“I’m asking you to stay, Mars. Stay here. Be mine. Let me be yours. Live in this haunted house with me and Homer. Work with me. Run with me. Make me lunches. Let me hold you while you fall asleep on the porch.”
I loved the main characters as well as the secondary characters. They made the story more interesting and lively. There were just things that I found unbelievable. Like how a 38 year old woman acts and thinks like a teenager at times. And also, the part where she blamed herself for losing a game. She's 38 and experienced, and just one loss she abandoned everything? But I loved that she kept swimming till she found herself and became a person I wanted her to be.
I recommend this to those who likes: Lucy Score, romantic comedy, fake dating, small town, slow burn, bully, sports, high school, friends to lovers, tattooed and bad boy heroes, and a happy ever after.
"I loved and was loved. And that was the most important thing in the world."
April 26, 2023
This is by far my MOST FAVORITE Lucy Score book!!
2021 - back to re-reading my favourite rom-com
2019 - reread second time
___________________________________
If you love entertaining, heart-warming and funny books – this is the book for you.
I’m not usually into rom-coms but some author’s just work for me – and this author’s humor is right up my alley. Never too over the top, and without her characters being embarrassingly stupid, the humor was always just right, and the entire novel easily checked all my boxes – Rock Bottom Girl was a HIT!!
I laughed out loud – and got some strange looks from the people at the hair salon – grinned some more, and just was plain happy reading this little gem.
Rock Bottom Girl was all kinds of awesome things rolled into one.
Sports romance - Small town - Romantic Comedy - Fake Relationship.
A tattooed hero that was all kinds of yummy – but most of all as perfect as it gets. Supportive, incredibly well versed in hitting the right tone whenever needed, but still all kinds of edgy and ‘bad boy’. And one of those fictional teachers you wish were real.
A spunky and feisty heroine, down on her luck, but still retaining her humor. The perfect person to get in trouble with. She is nothing short of awesome and incredibly likable – a down to earth, humble but also a kinda real character.
And there were so many awesome supporting characters. I don’t really know where to start, Vicky, Libby, the Uncles, Amie-Jo – I could go on. Every single one brought something special to this book. And together it was one of these novels that just make you feel good. Low drama – but lot’s of fun.
2021 - back to re-reading my favourite rom-com
2019 - reread second time
___________________________________
If you love entertaining, heart-warming and funny books – this is the book for you.
I’m not usually into rom-coms but some author’s just work for me – and this author’s humor is right up my alley. Never too over the top, and without her characters being embarrassingly stupid, the humor was always just right, and the entire novel easily checked all my boxes – Rock Bottom Girl was a HIT!!
I laughed out loud – and got some strange looks from the people at the hair salon – grinned some more, and just was plain happy reading this little gem.
Rock Bottom Girl was all kinds of awesome things rolled into one.
Sports romance - Small town - Romantic Comedy - Fake Relationship.
A tattooed hero that was all kinds of yummy – but most of all as perfect as it gets. Supportive, incredibly well versed in hitting the right tone whenever needed, but still all kinds of edgy and ‘bad boy’. And one of those fictional teachers you wish were real.
A spunky and feisty heroine, down on her luck, but still retaining her humor. The perfect person to get in trouble with. She is nothing short of awesome and incredibly likable – a down to earth, humble but also a kinda real character.
And there were so many awesome supporting characters. I don’t really know where to start, Vicky, Libby, the Uncles, Amie-Jo – I could go on. Every single one brought something special to this book. And together it was one of these novels that just make you feel good. Low drama – but lot’s of fun.
April 8, 2019
3.5 Stars
Overall Opinion: I just want to put it out there that my book funk may very well have impacted my perspective and opinions on this book. It took me a long time to read this where I normally can get through a book a day easily. I was just not feeling reading and it might be due to my long string of 3-ish star reads lately. That being said....I also did struggle with some aspects of the book. I didn't like the pacing. It took me a while to get into the book, as it felt a little slow to get started. I also really struggled with the h and her woe-is-me attitude. The ending felt lackluster especially with all the time devoted to other things that I felt could have been edited down. Overall this did provide me with quite a few laugh out loud moments and I loved the H -- so I'm going with a little better than "just okay" and 3.5 stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Marley and Jake's story. Marley is down on her luck and has to move back in with her parents at 38. She is starting a new job at her old high school as the PE teacher and girls soccer coach. Jake is an old crush from high school that Marley shared a heated kiss with under the bleachers, so she is shocked to find that he is a teacher and coach at the school as well. Sparks fly and Jake helps her with the new big changes that are happening in her life. They get forced into a fake relationship that turns into a hot fling and stronger feelings start to develop. There are some laugh out loud moments and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Marley and Jake's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not my favorite. This was kind of long overall and it felt slow at times. I think there might've been some moments that could've been edited down to make it flow better.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 5 stars. Jake. I loved him! He was an awesome mix of sweet and hot.
h rating: 3 stars. Marley. I actually struggled with her constantly negative self image. I also struggled with how she pushed away the H and was in denial about her own feelings and their relationship.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Not really
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Not really
Closure: This had an extended epilogue if you sign up for the author's newsletter. This is definitely not my favorite marketing technique, but I understand that it's probably very effective. Especially when the ending in the book felt...lacking. I would call this a HEA ending with the extended epilogue, but I still wanted more tbh.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: I just want to put it out there that my book funk may very well have impacted my perspective and opinions on this book. It took me a long time to read this where I normally can get through a book a day easily. I was just not feeling reading and it might be due to my long string of 3-ish star reads lately. That being said....I also did struggle with some aspects of the book. I didn't like the pacing. It took me a while to get into the book, as it felt a little slow to get started. I also really struggled with the h and her woe-is-me attitude. The ending felt lackluster especially with all the time devoted to other things that I felt could have been edited down. Overall this did provide me with quite a few laugh out loud moments and I loved the H -- so I'm going with a little better than "just okay" and 3.5 stars.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Marley and Jake's story. Marley is down on her luck and has to move back in with her parents at 38. She is starting a new job at her old high school as the PE teacher and girls soccer coach. Jake is an old crush from high school that Marley shared a heated kiss with under the bleachers, so she is shocked to find that he is a teacher and coach at the school as well. Sparks fly and Jake helps her with the new big changes that are happening in her life. They get forced into a fake relationship that turns into a hot fling and stronger feelings start to develop. There are some laugh out loud moments and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between Marley and Jake's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Not my favorite. This was kind of long overall and it felt slow at times. I think there might've been some moments that could've been edited down to make it flow better.
Instalove: No, they take a while to develop stronger feelings.
H rating: 5 stars. Jake. I loved him! He was an awesome mix of sweet and hot.
h rating: 3 stars. Marley. I actually struggled with her constantly negative self image. I also struggled with how she pushed away the H and was in denial about her own feelings and their relationship.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Not really
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Not really
Closure: This had an extended epilogue if you sign up for the author's newsletter. This is definitely not my favorite marketing technique, but I understand that it's probably very effective. Especially when the ending in the book felt...lacking. I would call this a HEA ending with the extended epilogue, but I still wanted more tbh.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
March 17, 2019
5 Stars
Well color me surprised!
I went into Rock Bottom Girl hoping for a little fun and a little steam. What I got was a story i found myself relating to on so many levels with an awesome dose of humor and fun thrown in for good measure.
Marley's a heroine I can get behind. Thirty eight and still searching for her place in the world, she served as a gentle and fun reminder that we don't have to have it all figured out by an arbitrary date or age. Jake, in all his cross country coaching, history teaching glory, is almost too perfect but I can't tell you how refreshing it was to read about a man who's not a billionaire, super alpha asshole. Jake gets a pass on his unrealistic perfection and I'm good with it.
I loved the high school rivalries awakened by Marley's return, I loved her snarky, not subtle yet not over the top humor, I loved how the side characters didn't fit in tidy, definable boxes. Most importantly, I had a fabulous time reading this and at the end of the day, I can't ask for more than that.
Well color me surprised!
I went into Rock Bottom Girl hoping for a little fun and a little steam. What I got was a story i found myself relating to on so many levels with an awesome dose of humor and fun thrown in for good measure.
Marley's a heroine I can get behind. Thirty eight and still searching for her place in the world, she served as a gentle and fun reminder that we don't have to have it all figured out by an arbitrary date or age. Jake, in all his cross country coaching, history teaching glory, is almost too perfect but I can't tell you how refreshing it was to read about a man who's not a billionaire, super alpha asshole. Jake gets a pass on his unrealistic perfection and I'm good with it.
I loved the high school rivalries awakened by Marley's return, I loved her snarky, not subtle yet not over the top humor, I loved how the side characters didn't fit in tidy, definable boxes. Most importantly, I had a fabulous time reading this and at the end of the day, I can't ask for more than that.
April 15, 2022
the plot: 🤪🤩✨🥰🥺☺️❤️🥳
the romance: 😕🥲😬🤧😴😑🥱
this could have been 200 pages shorter and the story would still be exactly the same. seriously, 81 chapters was severely unnecessary. mainly bcos this wasn’t a fake dating romance to me... this was a very-real-dating romance.
there’s no tension, no build up, no what-ifs, no intense pining. they both make it extremely clear from the get-go that they’re into each other so it took all of the excitement out of their dynamic. nothing was left to the imagination and instead it was smooth-sailing, and dare i say, predictable? so it didn’t need to be this damn long if there was going to be very minimal angst or little evolution within their relationship. they just felt very stagnant to me as a couple.
but i did think the whole donkey scene was cute af where Jake realised he was gonna marry the shit out of Marley. other than that? this was cool. just not very exciting.
i was way more invested in the girls’ football team (i can never call it soccer, im not even sorry) plot line and watching Marley grow into herself. everything else was mediocre to me.
the romance: 😕🥲😬🤧😴😑🥱
this could have been 200 pages shorter and the story would still be exactly the same. seriously, 81 chapters was severely unnecessary. mainly bcos this wasn’t a fake dating romance to me... this was a very-real-dating romance.
there’s no tension, no build up, no what-ifs, no intense pining. they both make it extremely clear from the get-go that they’re into each other so it took all of the excitement out of their dynamic. nothing was left to the imagination and instead it was smooth-sailing, and dare i say, predictable? so it didn’t need to be this damn long if there was going to be very minimal angst or little evolution within their relationship. they just felt very stagnant to me as a couple.
but i did think the whole donkey scene was cute af where Jake realised he was gonna marry the shit out of Marley. other than that? this was cool. just not very exciting.
i was way more invested in the girls’ football team (i can never call it soccer, im not even sorry) plot line and watching Marley grow into herself. everything else was mediocre to me.
August 10, 2023
not her best.
March 17, 2019
I wish I'd had a teacher like Jake...
I had the most amazing reading day today. I managed to get the washing, cleaning and shopping done AND start and finish a fabulous book. Actually, I'd have to say it was an amazing weekend of reading. Two 5-star books in one weekend are what every reader dreams of. Rock Bottom Girl took me on an emotional journey of highs and lows and left me with a big goofy smile.
Marley has hit rock bottom and returned to her childhood home with her tail between her legs. Broke, homeless and single, at 38 she's desperate to finally be on the right path to success. Being home is not her path to happiness it's just a fork in the road. When her mum manages to score her a job as a soccer coach and PE teacher at her old school, she accepts it on the proviso that it's short term. Marley wants more than her small town, and she definitely doesn't want to get stuck being constantly reminded of her biggest mistakes. One of those mistakes...is still in town and still as sexy as he was at 17.
Jakes Weston is a history teacher and cross-country coach. Besides teaching, his main priorities are his family, dog and fellow teachers. Now that he's nearly 40, he's started to realise that the short hook-ups and dating isn't enough. Jake's lonely and wondering if he's meant for more. When Marley comes back to town he can't help but remember that one steamy kiss under the bleachers. She's still extremely sexy and manages to make him laugh each time they're together. Maybe, Marley is the right person to test the waters to see if he could do more.
Honestly, I loved this story. Yes, Marley could be a pain in the butt with her negativity and *woe-is-me* mentality but in some ways I kind of got her. Like Marley, high school was not my best years. Luckily, unlike Marley, I managed to move on and still lead a pretty great life. Poor Marley, never really found her happy place. Meeting Jake, falling for Jake, it seems like more but it's just a matter of time before it all goes wrong.
Jake is my favourite type of hero. He's far from perfect, a little gruff, a wee bit egotistical and a bit of a slob. But, the swagger has its charm, his sexiness and good looks make me swoon, and his thoughtfulness and kindness made me sigh. It's so nice to have the heroine stuff up instead of the hero. Marley spends too much time thinking that the grass is greener on the other side instead of appreciating what's right under her feet...or standing beside her.
Rock Bottom Girl was funny, sexy and very thought-provoking. Lucy Score has thoroughly entertained me from start to finish. Her characters came to life for me and I enjoy her look into a small town. Most of this story revolves around the local high school and I loved seeing a positive side to what kids get out of modern media.
If you're looking for a story to make you laugh, sigh and swoon, you can't go wrong with Rock Bottom Girl.
I had the most amazing reading day today. I managed to get the washing, cleaning and shopping done AND start and finish a fabulous book. Actually, I'd have to say it was an amazing weekend of reading. Two 5-star books in one weekend are what every reader dreams of. Rock Bottom Girl took me on an emotional journey of highs and lows and left me with a big goofy smile.
Marley has hit rock bottom and returned to her childhood home with her tail between her legs. Broke, homeless and single, at 38 she's desperate to finally be on the right path to success. Being home is not her path to happiness it's just a fork in the road. When her mum manages to score her a job as a soccer coach and PE teacher at her old school, she accepts it on the proviso that it's short term. Marley wants more than her small town, and she definitely doesn't want to get stuck being constantly reminded of her biggest mistakes. One of those mistakes...is still in town and still as sexy as he was at 17.
Jakes Weston is a history teacher and cross-country coach. Besides teaching, his main priorities are his family, dog and fellow teachers. Now that he's nearly 40, he's started to realise that the short hook-ups and dating isn't enough. Jake's lonely and wondering if he's meant for more. When Marley comes back to town he can't help but remember that one steamy kiss under the bleachers. She's still extremely sexy and manages to make him laugh each time they're together. Maybe, Marley is the right person to test the waters to see if he could do more.
Honestly, I loved this story. Yes, Marley could be a pain in the butt with her negativity and *woe-is-me* mentality but in some ways I kind of got her. Like Marley, high school was not my best years. Luckily, unlike Marley, I managed to move on and still lead a pretty great life. Poor Marley, never really found her happy place. Meeting Jake, falling for Jake, it seems like more but it's just a matter of time before it all goes wrong.
Jake is my favourite type of hero. He's far from perfect, a little gruff, a wee bit egotistical and a bit of a slob. But, the swagger has its charm, his sexiness and good looks make me swoon, and his thoughtfulness and kindness made me sigh. It's so nice to have the heroine stuff up instead of the hero. Marley spends too much time thinking that the grass is greener on the other side instead of appreciating what's right under her feet...or standing beside her.
Rock Bottom Girl was funny, sexy and very thought-provoking. Lucy Score has thoroughly entertained me from start to finish. Her characters came to life for me and I enjoy her look into a small town. Most of this story revolves around the local high school and I loved seeing a positive side to what kids get out of modern media.
If you're looking for a story to make you laugh, sigh and swoon, you can't go wrong with Rock Bottom Girl.
July 4, 2023
At 38, Marley has returned to her hometown. Jobless, boyfriendless, living with her parents, and she’s just been hired as the temporary soccer coach for the high school girls team.
Wondering how the hell I’d ended up back in the place that I’d felt the most self-loathing and disappointment.
I loved everything about this story:
The teenagers
Her parents
The uncles
The school faculty
Airbnb guests
The humor
The text messages
Her bff
Donkey basketball
The smokin hot sex
Scorching chemistry
The character arcs
Duo POV
HEA
“It’s like I missed the day in school when they told us how to be an adult.”
Oh Marley, we all did. We are all just out here, fumbling along pretending like we know what adulting is all about.
The ending was completely unrealistic, filled with over the top cheese, but I didn’t care. I loved it.
Wondering how the hell I’d ended up back in the place that I’d felt the most self-loathing and disappointment.
I loved everything about this story:
The teenagers
Her parents
The uncles
The school faculty
Airbnb guests
The humor
The text messages
Her bff
Donkey basketball
The smokin hot sex
Scorching chemistry
The character arcs
Duo POV
HEA
“It’s like I missed the day in school when they told us how to be an adult.”
Oh Marley, we all did. We are all just out here, fumbling along pretending like we know what adulting is all about.
The ending was completely unrealistic, filled with over the top cheese, but I didn’t care. I loved it.
July 20, 2020
“It’s like I missed the day in school when they told us how to be an adult.”
Rock Bottom Girl is a standalone laugh out loud rom-com featuring a young woman who has returned home for a reset of her life. Marley is a quirky young woman who lands herself back in her parents' house to try to turn her life around. Smacked with a hard dose of real life, she finds peace and solace being back in her hometown. Needing to "adult" she agrees to teach and coach soccer at her old high school. Imagine her surprise when she discovers her old flame Jake Weston is not only still in town but now one of her coworkers. Now that Jake and Marley are all grown up, will they have a second chance to get things right this time around?

“Come on, Mars. Don’t send me home alone.”Told in Marley’s POV, Rock Bottom Girl is a hilarious romantic comedy with plenty of passion and witty dialogue. The banter between the two main characters is hilarious throughout the entire read. What makes this story most endearing is the quirkiness of Marley and the way in which she proudly lives out her journey unashamed and with such bravery. In addition to the main characters, the supporting characters enhanced the story greatly. The family adds more love and double the fun!
"Newsflash, you want to act like a jerk, do it at home to your parents who made you this way."Overall, Rock Bottom Girl will appeal to readers who enjoy a sweet and short romantic comedy with high school drama and loads of fun. In this current climate, we find ourselves in, you will not be sorry you escaped into a world of fun and good old fashioned swoon-worthy passion! Lucy Score is a relatively new author to me and I certainly look forward to reading more of her work!
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 31, 2020
4 STARS!
Plot in a nutshell:
Her mom gets her a job as a temporary high school gym teacher and girls soccer team coach. Among the faculty are her old high school arch-nemesis/bully, Amie Jo, and her biggest crush, Jake Weston.
The above set up was like a barrel full of monkeys, aka, a really good time. There were so many hilarious moments . . .
"You're the 'more' I've been looking for my entire life."It's OFFICIAL: I can count on Ms. Lucy Score to make me laugh and brighten my day!
Plot in a nutshell:
I was single, jobless, and hopeless.At the ripe old age of 38, Marley is forced to move back to her small hometown to live with her parents after a series of unfortunate events.
Her mom gets her a job as a temporary high school gym teacher and girls soccer team coach. Among the faculty are her old high school arch-nemesis/bully, Amie Jo, and her biggest crush, Jake Weston.
The above set up was like a barrel full of monkeys, aka, a really good time. There were so many hilarious moments . . .
He looked like he was going to tell me something I'd treasure for the rest of my life. Something about my under-the-radar beauty or my womanly charms. How I'd hypnotized him with my wit.. . . but also swoon-worthy ones . . .
"Lose the sweater," he said gruffly.
Together we were two lovers lost and found.. . . and some life lessons along the way.
"No amount of 'atta girls' from other people is going to give you that swagger you're looking for. You're a hell of a girl, Mars. Start acting like it."I loved Jake and Marley together and I loved the supporting cast, all of whom had me in stitches at different times throughout the book. Ms. Score's sense of humor is at turns overt, then subtle.
"Come on," he said, nodding toward the backdoor. "I'll how you the porch."The only thing that kept Rock Bottom Girl from being a 5 star home run for me was Marley's self doubt. It got to be a bit overdone.
It sounded like a euphemism.
It was an open wound I dealt with secretly, never being good enough.If it had been dialed back a bit, I'd have put this on my all-time favorites list. As it is though, the laughs more than make up for any shortcoming I could ever go on about. I definitely recommend!
March 19, 2022
It's utterly sweet, feel good, hopeful kinda story. Nice change or palette cleanser I should say, between more meaty stories that are my preference.
Dragged a lot though. Every tiny detail was put on paper.
not that there's anything wrong with that!!
I just like more slapstick, slick paced story which is heavy on emotions and events.
But Lucy is popular for a reason.
The heroine, Marley has downsized, is broke and then dumped. The Trifecta of travails brings her back to her parents house, and a job as Physical Ed teacher in her old local school - Culpepper High school.
She has quite a reputation from her own HS days with the mean girls posse and her crush, the then jock and now a teacher - Jake Weston. The dejection that has been stewing and smarting Marley prevents her from accepting Jake's nearness and affections but when school policy throws them in to gather a fake relationships, things and perspectives begin to change.
It's very predictable. Lucy puts in adorable situations but is too detail oriented for my obsessive reading.
4 stars for Goody Twosome couple
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Dragged a lot though. Every tiny detail was put on paper.
not that there's anything wrong with that!!
I just like more slapstick, slick paced story which is heavy on emotions and events.
But Lucy is popular for a reason.
The heroine, Marley has downsized, is broke and then dumped. The Trifecta of travails brings her back to her parents house, and a job as Physical Ed teacher in her old local school - Culpepper High school.
She has quite a reputation from her own HS days with the mean girls posse and her crush, the then jock and now a teacher - Jake Weston. The dejection that has been stewing and smarting Marley prevents her from accepting Jake's nearness and affections but when school policy throws them in to gather a fake relationships, things and perspectives begin to change.
It's very predictable. Lucy puts in adorable situations but is too detail oriented for my obsessive reading.
4 stars for Goody Twosome couple
Follow me on:
Email🌻 Bookbub 🌻 Twitter🌻 Instagram🌻 Blog🌻 Facebook🌻 Amazon 🌻
August 26, 2020
A little whisper of 'potential' in the back of my head kept me reading. Until 32%, when I decided this isn't working for me.
In one of the first encounters between the (unlicensed) soccer coach and teacher and teacher/XC coach, he was slapping her and calling her a dumbass in front of students. While he was slapping her for her to stay conscious and avoid heat stroke, I really get that it's all dramatic (and probably not medically worthwhile) but "dumbass?" to another teacher in front of students? No. He then proceeded to take her into the girls locker room-with girls in it (and the warning of testosterone) so yeah. I hate him (though med emergency blah blah). And then the mansplaining began.
But what's worse, is this hot mess heroine needed it. Because her decisions were shit. She was living in the past, and I just didn't understand her. Again, taking your students to prank a fellow coach along with some light B&E? No.
The bright spot was Marley's friend, Vicky, who had great one liners on middle age, marriage, and sex in marriage. But she just wasn't enough.
The voices in the chapter were indistinct. Both characters use "knocking on 40" to describe their age. Marley doesn't act 40, and is frankly carrying all kinds of baggage about her hometown that just feels pathetic at this point. (I KNOW it can be jarring to run into old high school people and turn corners and be weirdly assaulted by memories, but I don't BUY that you become a complete ass because of it)
Basically, I feel like score wanted to write a high school novel but for 40 year olds. There's still the mean girl, gloating about her marriage to Marley's ex. Jake claims (also from her high school, and he was the 'bad boy') her publicly-in front of staff, students when Marley is accused of the prank (that she did do) saying he was with her all night without giving her a choice. Not my kind of thing there.
Worse, however, maybe, I don't know, is the constant reference to how beautiful, hot, sexy Jake is. Let's take this apart a bit. I love an attractive hero-a runner no less-yum. What I don't love is having his level of attractiveness validated by the 60 year old desk staff at school, and WORSE, the various students who fall just short of throwing themselves at him.
Let me tell you a story. In my senior year, when I was 18, we had a student teacher. This is awkward. He would've been 21 to 22. And he was indeed, hot. But you know what happened? He took control of the classroom, and the majority of the students that thought he was attractive(yeah, I'm sure *some* didn't) dropped the conversation about his looks, treated him like an authority and never swooned again. It becomes an academic assignment. Yes, this person is good looking, but that's no longer his prominent identity.
By all accounts, Jake was a cool teacher apparently . I'm pretty sure at about 40, most students would see him in that academic kind of way-meaning a distanced evaluation of looks, not 'hot for teacher' way. When I was 16-18, I really didn't consider how good looking most 40 year olds were (is my aversion to age gaps showing) and so NONE of this rings true. It's just evidence to me of shortcomings of the author. You can't give us anything other than attractiveness and so it's substituted for motivation, intimacy, etc. All the students want him, rather than respecting him as a teacher cause that's easier to write?
Also, after 20 years if an old boyfriend said to me "Jesus woman where'd you learn to kiss like that?" I'd knee him in the nuts, because what a douche. (I mean, maybe I was meant to think so because his music choice was highly questionable.)
Anyway, there are things in contemporary that I can't do. And inappropriate teachers are among them. Look elsewhere for teacher romance.
May 4, 2020
SO CUTE!!!
ME ENCANTÓ!!
Este libro es como las típicas películas que verías un domingo por la tarde un RomCom en toda la extensión de la palabra y es FAKE ROMANCE.
Al principio me costó un poco pero ya que los protagonistas tienes interacción uuf no pude dejarlo, tiene más de 500 páginas y no las sentí en ningún momento. Es un libro ligero, con un toque de humor y algunas escenas sexys.
Al principio Marley tenía una actitud derrotista, y regresar después de 20 años a la casa de sus padres era un fracaso y más cuando su hermana tiene una vida de éxito y su némesis de la preparatoria tiene una vida modelo perfecta con un hombre rico que por cierto era su exnovio.
Pero al avanzar el libro ella se va superando a sí misma, el empleo que ella considera temporal le está dando más satisfacción que otros que ella consideraba adecuados no.
Logró unir a un equipo de futbol femenil que era un desastre y en el proceso esas chicas la ayudaron a ella.
Y la cereza del pastel, Jake LO AMEEÉ, es que era adorable, amor puro, era el chico malo rebelde de la preparatoria que se convirtió en un profesor reformado y uno de los solteros más codiciados.
Era coqueto sexy y un gran corazón, me encantaban sus escenas con su perro.
Hace mucho tiempo que un protagonista en contemporánea no me enamoraba así.
No es un libro perfecto tuvo sus fallas como el principio y la actitud de Marley al final pero me gustó mucho.
ME ENCANTÓ!!
Este libro es como las típicas películas que verías un domingo por la tarde un RomCom en toda la extensión de la palabra y es FAKE ROMANCE.
Al principio me costó un poco pero ya que los protagonistas tienes interacción uuf no pude dejarlo, tiene más de 500 páginas y no las sentí en ningún momento. Es un libro ligero, con un toque de humor y algunas escenas sexys.
Al principio Marley tenía una actitud derrotista, y regresar después de 20 años a la casa de sus padres era un fracaso y más cuando su hermana tiene una vida de éxito y su némesis de la preparatoria tiene una vida modelo perfecta con un hombre rico que por cierto era su exnovio.
Pero al avanzar el libro ella se va superando a sí misma, el empleo que ella considera temporal le está dando más satisfacción que otros que ella consideraba adecuados no.
Logró unir a un equipo de futbol femenil que era un desastre y en el proceso esas chicas la ayudaron a ella.
Y la cereza del pastel, Jake LO AMEEÉ, es que era adorable, amor puro, era el chico malo rebelde de la preparatoria que se convirtió en un profesor reformado y uno de los solteros más codiciados.
Era coqueto sexy y un gran corazón, me encantaban sus escenas con su perro.
Hace mucho tiempo que un protagonista en contemporánea no me enamoraba así.
No es un libro perfecto tuvo sus fallas como el principio y la actitud de Marley al final pero me gustó mucho.
April 5, 2023
idk what it was about this but i was bored most of the time :) it was cute but i’ll forget it by next week.
May 10, 2019
“Sweet baby cheeses”, I freaking loveeeeeed this book! ⭐️
My dear friend Isabella made me read this book. Actually, we started a mini book club and this book was on the list for us to read together, at her suggestion. I started it first, downloading it from Kindle Unlimited library.
Average reading time 8+ hours.
The first quarter was super slow paced and I admit I got bored. I even told Isabella I might not finish the book, since it’s too long, nothing happens and the Girl is too rock bottom-ed for me.
But then, just liked magic, POOF! I started to like it and with every turn of the page I liked it more and more. 50% in, i couldn’t put it down.
I found something interesting on Lucy Score’s blog: 5 reasons to read this book.
I’m going to “borrow” them for you:
3. “I’m not going to call this an ugly duckling to swan story (there is an actual swan in Rock Bottom Girl), but there is a pretty great makeover. In fact, Marley’s entire character arc is an inside out makeover.” Yes, Marley will complain a lot and will make you feel sorry for her and you might get bored with all that high school drama and her wallowing in that self pity she definitely rocks, but watching her come to life, become a better version of herself, it’s a remarkable thing.
4. “Jake and Marley are almost 40. Which means they’re good at sex and things like paying bills and navigating professional relationships. Sure, they’ve still got problems. Jake has never been in a committed relationship that lasted longer than a few orgasms. And Marley is still looking for her place in the world. But together, they make 38 look pretty damn good. Especially since they’re high school teachers and deal with teenagers all day.”
5. This one is all mine. I loved their relationship. I loved Jake, his dog and their families. I loved how he teaches History to those brats. I loved how she figured out how to be a better Coach for all those girls. I got butterflies just imagining how Jake looked at her. I got really turned on when they started having sex.
So, my dear friend Isabella, you definitely missed out, but thank you so much for making me read it. 😜
It would be an absolute honor to have you as my guest on my blog too. Stop by anytime you want :)
My dear friend Isabella made me read this book. Actually, we started a mini book club and this book was on the list for us to read together, at her suggestion. I started it first, downloading it from Kindle Unlimited library.
Average reading time 8+ hours.
The first quarter was super slow paced and I admit I got bored. I even told Isabella I might not finish the book, since it’s too long, nothing happens and the Girl is too rock bottom-ed for me.
But then, just liked magic, POOF! I started to like it and with every turn of the page I liked it more and more. 50% in, i couldn’t put it down.
I found something interesting on Lucy Score’s blog: 5 reasons to read this book.
I’m going to “borrow” them for you:
1. “This is a fake relationship that starts with a meet-puke, a girls soccer team, a rescue dog, a perfect sister, and the bad boy from high school. Oh and a high school nemesis who only got meaner with age.”
2. “It’s funny”. Here are the parts that made me laugh the hardest:
“Vicky: Don’t even try to go radio silent on me. The last time Rich and I had sex, he kept his socks on. Vicky: I need to live vicariously through your swinging singlehood. Me: Fine. There was a kiss. It was nice. Vicky: *Hulk smash meme* Vicky: NICE?? JAKE WESTON LAYS ONE ON YOU AND IT WAS JUST NICE??? Me: Go tell Rich to take his socks off.”
“Me: Don’t wait up tonight! Mom: Wait up for what? Me: Me to come home. Mom: Why would I do that? You’re almost 40. Me: I’m just saying I won’t be home tonight, and you shouldn’t worry. Mom: Why won’t you be home tonight??? Did something happen??? Are you okay? Me: Mom, I just said don’t worry. Mom: TELL ME WHAT NOT TO WORRY ABOUT! Me: I’m having sex with Jake. Okay? There. You made me say it. It’s your own fault, and now we can never make eye contact again. Don’t tell Dad. Mom: Have fun at Bible study, sweetie. Me: ??? Mom: Just kidding! I’m a cool mom. Condoms are fun. Make good choices!”
3. “I’m not going to call this an ugly duckling to swan story (there is an actual swan in Rock Bottom Girl), but there is a pretty great makeover. In fact, Marley’s entire character arc is an inside out makeover.” Yes, Marley will complain a lot and will make you feel sorry for her and you might get bored with all that high school drama and her wallowing in that self pity she definitely rocks, but watching her come to life, become a better version of herself, it’s a remarkable thing.
4. “Jake and Marley are almost 40. Which means they’re good at sex and things like paying bills and navigating professional relationships. Sure, they’ve still got problems. Jake has never been in a committed relationship that lasted longer than a few orgasms. And Marley is still looking for her place in the world. But together, they make 38 look pretty damn good. Especially since they’re high school teachers and deal with teenagers all day.”
5. This one is all mine. I loved their relationship. I loved Jake, his dog and their families. I loved how he teaches History to those brats. I loved how she figured out how to be a better Coach for all those girls. I got butterflies just imagining how Jake looked at her. I got really turned on when they started having sex.
“Baby, don’t take this the wrong way. But if you say another word or move a muscle, this is going to be really embarrassing for me and really disappointing for you.” She gave the tiniest laugh, and it almost put me over the edge. Homer. Grandma. Broccoli. Gas. Did the Steelers have a shot at the Super Bowl this year? John Quincy Adams.”
“Wow,” she said again. My lips curved. “Am I crushing you?” “You’re holding me on the surface of the planet because what we just did destroyed gravity,” she said.
So, my dear friend Isabella, you definitely missed out, but thank you so much for making me read it. 😜
It would be an absolute honor to have you as my guest on my blog too. Stop by anytime you want :)
May 18, 2024
Oh my gosh, this was so cute!
This was my first Lucy Score book and I’m absolutely glad I had a great first experience with it. The plot was extremely fast-paced regardless of the 500 pages that trust me, don’t feel like 500 at all.
The characters? They were incredible too. The 2 main protagonists were the shit, I loved them a lot, their humor and connection was beautiful and very cute, and I usually don’t really find myself enjoying the main couple.
But I’m really glad I read this, I honestly had zero expectations but Lucy definitely changed my mind. I’m absolutely looking to read some more of her. And I’d definitely recommend this so anyone who’s looking for a romance book to spend some time laughing and vibing around.
The end was a bit rushed tho and felt kinda weird? The antagonist, well… you just have to read it to understand what I mean by the ending.
Anyway, once again, happy I read this.
This was my first Lucy Score book and I’m absolutely glad I had a great first experience with it. The plot was extremely fast-paced regardless of the 500 pages that trust me, don’t feel like 500 at all.
The characters? They were incredible too. The 2 main protagonists were the shit, I loved them a lot, their humor and connection was beautiful and very cute, and I usually don’t really find myself enjoying the main couple.
But I’m really glad I read this, I honestly had zero expectations but Lucy definitely changed my mind. I’m absolutely looking to read some more of her. And I’d definitely recommend this so anyone who’s looking for a romance book to spend some time laughing and vibing around.
The end was a bit rushed tho and felt kinda weird? The antagonist, well… you just have to read it to understand what I mean by the ending.
Anyway, once again, happy I read this.
April 27, 2019
Loved the first half of the book, it was so much fun, and so heart warming, I was grinning so much! Unfortunately the second half dragged, as the book was too long, and Marley was annoying towards the end.
So firstly this book was funny, there were lots of pranks, and I liked Marley's character for most of the book. Then the secondary characters were fantastic! I loved the girls football team (soccer) and the relationships between themselves and with Marley. I loved Marley's parents, her best friend Vicky, Jake's uncles, other members of staff and of course the dog! The romance was sweet, and Jake was book boyfriend Jack pot! I liked the way both Marley and Jake grew as people. This wasn't just about romance, but about being your best self, family, friends, teamwork and overcoming failure.
What went wrong then??
Urgh Marley was so hung up on events which happened at homecoming when she was 17/18, that she let them effect her life for the next 20 years! It was pretty dramatic but it was 20 years ago! Everyone makes mistakes as a teenager/young person, but don't let it ruin your life?!
The plot which unfolded was so predictable, and I called everything which unfolded with her sister and with Amie-Jo's notes. Then her beloved team lost one match and she reverted into being a sulky teenager again (she was 38 btw). Instead of lifting them up for all they had achieved, she let them think it was their fault! There were some really vulnerable girls there! Then she tried to use that loss as a sign that she was a loser and should give up her job, hot boyfriend and just leave town?! Even though so many people clearly loved and valued her there?! I known the point was for her to realise this and stay but she was just so immature and stupid about it?!
The ending was just too repetitive and drawn out for me. I'm glad it all worked out in the end, and it was great to see some diversity in a small town romance (gay uncles, one of whom was black, a lesbian student, and I loved that English teacher!) but I so wished that the whole book was as hilarious and uplifting as the start.
Read on KU.
So firstly this book was funny, there were lots of pranks, and I liked Marley's character for most of the book. Then the secondary characters were fantastic! I loved the girls football team (soccer) and the relationships between themselves and with Marley. I loved Marley's parents, her best friend Vicky, Jake's uncles, other members of staff and of course the dog! The romance was sweet, and Jake was book boyfriend Jack pot! I liked the way both Marley and Jake grew as people. This wasn't just about romance, but about being your best self, family, friends, teamwork and overcoming failure.
What went wrong then??
Urgh Marley was so hung up on events which happened at homecoming when she was 17/18, that she let them effect her life for the next 20 years! It was pretty dramatic but it was 20 years ago! Everyone makes mistakes as a teenager/young person, but don't let it ruin your life?!
The plot which unfolded was so predictable, and I called everything which unfolded with her sister and with Amie-Jo's notes. Then her beloved team lost one match and she reverted into being a sulky teenager again (she was 38 btw). Instead of lifting them up for all they had achieved, she let them think it was their fault! There were some really vulnerable girls there! Then she tried to use that loss as a sign that she was a loser and should give up her job, hot boyfriend and just leave town?! Even though so many people clearly loved and valued her there?! I known the point was for her to realise this and stay but she was just so immature and stupid about it?!
The ending was just too repetitive and drawn out for me. I'm glad it all worked out in the end, and it was great to see some diversity in a small town romance (gay uncles, one of whom was black, a lesbian student, and I loved that English teacher!) but I so wished that the whole book was as hilarious and uplifting as the start.
Read on KU.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2019
4.75 stars
This was so freaking cute omfg.
No joke, I was literally smiling the whole time I was reading this book and it's cuz the inner monologue's of both MCs are hilarious af.
And the whole girl soccer team storyline? LOVED IT.
What won this book for me is Jake though. Oh man. He is one of the best heroes I've ever read, hands down. Not only is he the best history teacher/cross-country coach, but he's also the best human being ever?? Like, how is that even possible? How can someone be so perfect? Ugh, its disgusting (jk, love this dude). I really like Marsley too but her constant belief of wanting something "more" at the end was super annoying. I get it. Character arc and all that shit and gotta respect a girl who strives for something big, but damn was she blind.
Only reason why I didn't 5 star this is cuz I thought it lacked the development/progression that I wanted from the romance department. Idk, I just felt like there was no build up. Like, one second Marsley likes Jake as a friend, then the next they're kissing. Where's the build up on that? I don't like that at all but gotta admit, once they do get "together", it's steamy as hell.
This was so freaking cute omfg.
No joke, I was literally smiling the whole time I was reading this book and it's cuz the inner monologue's of both MCs are hilarious af.
And the whole girl soccer team storyline? LOVED IT.
What won this book for me is Jake though. Oh man. He is one of the best heroes I've ever read, hands down. Not only is he the best history teacher/cross-country coach, but he's also the best human being ever?? Like, how is that even possible? How can someone be so perfect? Ugh, its disgusting (jk, love this dude). I really like Marsley too but her constant belief of wanting something "more" at the end was super annoying. I get it. Character arc and all that shit and gotta respect a girl who strives for something big, but damn was she blind.
Only reason why I didn't 5 star this is cuz I thought it lacked the development/progression that I wanted from the romance department. Idk, I just felt like there was no build up. Like, one second Marsley likes Jake as a friend, then the next they're kissing. Where's the build up on that? I don't like that at all but gotta admit, once they do get "together", it's steamy as hell.
August 14, 2020
I think this is OK read. The story is bit dragging. The story is about the come back story for a Mallory, who had been 'rejected' during her homecoming, to be accepted in her town.
Along tne way with help of fake boyfriend, Jake and her soccer students. Like Miss Score's book before, the signature of romantic comedy is there. I just feel Miss Score focusing more on the comedy banter way too much.
I want more focus on the romance story.
Anyway, this is OK read to start my long weekend.
3 stars
Along tne way with help of fake boyfriend, Jake and her soccer students. Like Miss Score's book before, the signature of romantic comedy is there. I just feel Miss Score focusing more on the comedy banter way too much.
I want more focus on the romance story.
Anyway, this is OK read to start my long weekend.
3 stars
April 10, 2022
4.5⭐️
ah well look at that another lucy score book i love. i don't think this woman can do no wrong (i hope i didn't just jinx this).
i have abandoned all the new releases that came out today and i just read this book. fuck it, LC books are making my heart pump at the moment.
what i loved about this book?
1. she grovelled
2. he communicated
3. he asked if she was sure;
if y'all know me i'm big on the dubcon shit and this was like a good slap to my face. i was so pleasantly surprised that consent is actually sexy? like wow i'm still swooning <3
4. he has dimples
5. he has a dog
6. she's the cool aunt (they both are ok with not having kids)
7. he winks and flirts in such a good way
8. homey feels and just lots of fluff
9. he fell first
10. bad boy x bad girl
11. teachers being sexy af.
anyway i ate this book up and left no crumbs. even amie jo redeemed herself. i kinda love that woman. she spent 20 years keeping them apart <3.
“I love you,” she said. “So much. So big and wide and more. You’re the ‘more’ I’ve been looking for my entire life.”
ah well look at that another lucy score book i love. i don't think this woman can do no wrong (i hope i didn't just jinx this).
i have abandoned all the new releases that came out today and i just read this book. fuck it, LC books are making my heart pump at the moment.
what i loved about this book?
1. she grovelled
2. he communicated
3. he asked if she was sure;
if y'all know me i'm big on the dubcon shit and this was like a good slap to my face. i was so pleasantly surprised that consent is actually sexy? like wow i'm still swooning <3
4. he has dimples
5. he has a dog
6. she's the cool aunt (they both are ok with not having kids)
7. he winks and flirts in such a good way
8. homey feels and just lots of fluff
9. he fell first
10. bad boy x bad girl
11. teachers being sexy af.
anyway i ate this book up and left no crumbs. even amie jo redeemed herself. i kinda love that woman. she spent 20 years keeping them apart <3.
June 7, 2019
I got to 68% before dropping this. Jake is awesome. Love that guy. But Marley is a stone-cold idiot. Score has managed quite a feat in making an active goal into a negative motivation* that keeps cropping up to stop forward progress dead. Marley is so intent on clinging to an idiot plan based in jealousy and adolescent fantasy that she's ignoring everything good in her life. Add a stupidly coy drip-drip-drip with what happened in the past and I have come to hate every time a chapter head starts with "Marley". Jake is great. Marley needs to grow the freak up. They're 38 for heaven's sake. How on Earth has she managed to remain an emotionally stunted goblin for 20 years? Ugh.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
May 10, 2019
Rock Bottom Girl is a funny rom-com about 38-year-old Marley who goes back to her small Pennsylvania hometown after losing her job and latest boyfriend. She has desperately been avoiding going home for the past 20 years because of her awful high school experience and the people who made it that way.
I love books about high school, but so often I’m disappointed because the characters are over the top mature and unbelievable. This book was perfect because the main characters were teachers instead of students, and the students that were described in the story were authentic and diverse.
The story itself reminded me a little of Susan Elizabeth Phillips, who I love. But unlike SEP, Rock Bottom Girl is written in 1st person dual narrative, and the writing was good.
This story put a smile on my face. I loved the cast of characters and small town setting. I always wonder if small towns like this really exist. If so, I’d love to move to one some day.
I love books about high school, but so often I’m disappointed because the characters are over the top mature and unbelievable. This book was perfect because the main characters were teachers instead of students, and the students that were described in the story were authentic and diverse.
The story itself reminded me a little of Susan Elizabeth Phillips, who I love. But unlike SEP, Rock Bottom Girl is written in 1st person dual narrative, and the writing was good.
This story put a smile on my face. I loved the cast of characters and small town setting. I always wonder if small towns like this really exist. If so, I’d love to move to one some day.
December 29, 2019
4 Stars ⭐️
March 30, 2019
So very disappointed in this book. It had huge potential and laugh out loud moments but the second an author shoves her ideology down your throat I'm out.
April 6, 2019
I have to give this story a 1. First, Marley tried to hard to be funny, and I just felt sorry for her. Second, at about 16% Jake seemed a little to political. I HATE when authors project their political views on the characters they write. DNF will NOT read this author again.
July 5, 2019
Sweet, funny and very enjoyable.
A "feel good" book.
A "feel good" book.
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