Hailey Shore's Win Some Love Some is a contemporary romance that delves into the complexities of love, friendship, and the inevitable passage of time. The novel is set against the backdrop of Calico Cove, a small town that serves as both a comforting home and a place of unresolved emotions for the protagonist, whose journey from youthful infatuation to mature love is both compelling and relatable.

The story begins with a poignant moment from the protagonist's past—her 18th birthday, when she decides to confess her love to her best friend, Nick. This scene is a powerful opening that sets the tone for the rest of the novel. The protagonist's vulnerability and courage are palpable, and Shore does an excellent job of capturing the intensity of first love. However, the revelation that Nick is involved with someone else, Sheila, is a crushing blow that propels the protagonist into a new phase of her life.

Fast forward six years, and the protagonist returns to Calico Cove, a place she once fled to escape her heartache. This return is not just a physical journey but an emotional one as well. The protagonist is now older, perhaps wiser, but still grappling with the remnants of her past feelings for Nick. Shore skillfully portrays the protagonist's internal conflict as she navigates her renewed interactions with Nick, who is now dealing with his own life upheavals, including the discovery of two half-brothers who are hockey legends.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the theme of second chances. Both the protagonist and Nick are given opportunities to reassess their past decisions and consider what truly matters to them. The narrative delves into the idea that love is not always straightforward and that sometimes, the timing has to be right for it to flourish. Shore's portrayal of this theme is nuanced, avoiding the cliché of love conquering all and instead presenting a more realistic depiction of how love can evolve over time.

Character development is another highlight of the book. The protagonist is a well-rounded character whose growth is evident throughout the story. Her initial naivety and idealism give way to a more grounded understanding of love and relationships. Nick, too, is a complex character. His initial dismissal of the protagonist's feelings as a "kid with a crush" is a point of tension, but as the story progresses, readers see a man who is also learning to reconcile his past with his present. The dynamic between the protagonist and Nick is rich and layered, making their eventual reconciliation feel earned and satisfying.

Shore's writing style is engaging and accessible, with a knack for capturing the emotional nuances of her characters. The dialogue is natural and often infused with humor, providing a nice balance to the more serious themes of the novel. The setting of Calico Cove adds an additional layer of charm to the story, with its small-town quirks and close-knit community providing a backdrop that feels both familiar and inviting.

In terms of its impact, Win Some Love Some is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the bittersweet nature of unrequited love or the hope of rekindling a lost connection. It speaks to the universal desire for love and belonging, while also acknowledging the challenges and complexities that come with it. The novel's exploration of familial relationships, particularly Nick's newfound connection with his half-brothers, adds depth to the story and highlights the importance of family in shaping one's identity.

Comparatively, Win Some Love Some shares thematic similarities with novels like Me Before You by Jojo Moyes and The Hating Game by Sally Thorne, both of which explore the intricacies of love and personal growth. However, Shore's novel stands out for its focus on the passage of time and the idea that love can be both a source of pain and healing. The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery, and her eventual acceptance of her feelings for Nick is portrayed with authenticity and grace.

Overall, Win Some Love Some is a heartfelt and engaging read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance. Hailey Shore has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. It is a testament to the enduring power of love and the courage it takes to embrace it, even when it means confronting the ghosts of the past.