Before choosing a long contemporary romance, you want something that truly feels worth your time—and Mistakes Were Made delivers a layered, emotionally satisfying experience.
This second installment in Lucy Score’s Story Lake series follows Zoey Moody, a literary agent rebuilding her life after setbacks, as she adjusts to a close-knit small-town environment. Opposite her is Gage Bishop, a steady, principled lawyer whose grounded nature contrasts with Zoey’s uncertainty.
What begins as an unexpected connection slowly deepens as vulnerabilities surface. With its extended length, the novel allows you to fully understand both characters, making the romance feel natural, immersive, and genuinely earned.
Available Formats & Reading Options
Before deciding how to read, it helps to understand your options so you can choose what fits your lifestyle and budget.
- Kindle Edition: A cost-effective and convenient option for everyday reading
- Kindle Unlimited: Ideal if you prefer unlimited access without extra cost
- Audiobook: Great for multitasking or long commutes
- Paperback: Perfect if you enjoy a traditional reading experience
- Library Binding: More suitable for collectors or long-term use
If you’re unsure, starting with a digital version is the easiest way to test if the story fits your taste.
What You’ll Appreciate Most
Here’s where the book truly stands out and what you’re most likely to enjoy as you read.
Character Growth That Feels Real
One of the strongest aspects of this book is how you experience both characters evolving.
- Zoey’s journey reflects real-life struggles with failure and reinvention
- Gage’s stability is balanced by emotional depth and hidden vulnerabilities
- Their connection develops gradually, not instantly
This creates a more believable and emotionally engaging romance.
Dialogue-Driven Chemistry
If you enjoy witty, meaningful conversations, this book stands out.
- Banter feels natural and often entertaining
- Emotional exchanges reveal deeper layers of each character
- The pacing of dialogue keeps the story engaging even in slower sections
You’re not just reading events—you’re experiencing how the characters connect.
Small-Town Setting With Impact
The setting plays an active role in shaping the story.
- Community expectations influence decisions and relationships
- Family involvement adds both warmth and tension
- The contrast between city life and small-town living feels grounded
This makes the environment feel like part of the narrative, not just a backdrop.
A Balanced Look: Potential Limitations
Before you commit, it’s important to consider a few limitations so you know what to expect.
Length and Pacing
At over 600 pages, the book requires time and patience.
- Some sections may feel slower than necessary
- Certain emotional beats are extended for depth
Perspective: If you enjoy immersive storytelling, this adds value. If you prefer fast pacing, it may feel drawn out.
Familiar Romance Elements
You’ll recognize several common tropes:
- Opposites attract
- Unexpected romantic complications
- Big-city versus small-town dynamics
Perspective: While not entirely original, the strength lies in execution and character depth rather than novelty.
Dialogue-Focused Narrative Style
- Heavy reliance on conversations and introspection
- Less emphasis on action-driven plot points
Perspective: This works well for character-focused readers but may not appeal if you want constant plot movement.
Themes That Add Meaning
Beyond the romance, this story explores deeper ideas that make the experience more impactful.
- Redemption: You see how rebuilding after failure takes time and effort
- Vulnerability vs. Independence: You’re challenged to consider when to open up
- Love vs. Ambition: The story asks whether you can pursue both without compromise
These themes give the book emotional weight and make it more relatable.
Is This the Right Book for You
If you’re still deciding, here’s a quick way to evaluate whether this book fits your preferences.
You’ll likely enjoy this if you:
- Prefer slow-burn, character-driven romance
- Appreciate emotional depth and realistic struggles
- Enjoy small-town settings with strong supporting characters
You may want to skip it if you:
- Prefer fast-paced or plot-heavy stories
- Don’t enjoy long books with gradual development
- Want a light, quick read without heavy emotional focus
Final Verdict
Overall, Mistakes Were Made offers a well-rounded romance that balances humor, emotional depth, and strong character development.
While the length and pacing may not suit every reader, the payoff is a more immersive and meaningful story. If you’re looking for a romance that allows you to fully invest in the characters and their journey, this book is a strong choice. It doesn’t just tell a love story—it shows you how people grow into one.
Where to Find It
You can find Mistakes Were Made on Amazon in multiple formats. While browsing, take the opportunity to explore more romance titles or even gift ideas—you might discover another story that fits your taste just as well.