"The Pieces of Us" is such a moving read! Even though after reading the description I expected to follow 3 distinctive point of views of 3 women, which would be interesting in itself, I still very much enjoyed how the story was structured and written.

I think Claire Alexander represents Cat's internal and external struggles well. Her character's actions and motivations are believable, and she's written with a certain agelessness, because she appears to be very quite life-experienced with her different burdens, and yet her metric age would suggest otherwise.

Beth's point of view, which takes the story back to the past nad is interwoven with Cat's present days, is so well-executed. She has her distinctive voice that is on par with the time and place she lives in, as well as her age.

The only thing that stopped me from rating "The Pieces of Us" 5 stars was the romance plot. It was cute, but so far-fetched, considering Cat's attitude and actions, that I was not able to suspend my disbelief. I'm aware it was maybe supposed to be uplifting and hope-promoting, but it was such a contrast to the realness of other storylines that it almost felt forced.

What a lovely read! This is not my usual type of book, but I definitely want to read more by this author.

I absolutely loved the whole feel of this book. Three generations of women, each with their own issues. Cat lives with her 16 year old daughter Ruby, who discovers she is pregnant. Cat’s mum Minnie has early onset Alzheimer’s and has to move in with Cat and Ruby. The story follows how the family adapt to these changes. Cat also makes a shocking discovery.

The characters in this books are well developed and likeable. I loved the main characters, along with their family and friends. The plot is rich. I really enjoyed the interweaving of time and characters and enjoyed the setting in Scotland and Ireland.

Both Alzheimer’s and teenage pregnancy are handled sensitively.

Thank you to the author., publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of this book.

Cat lives with her teenage daughter Ruby. Her mother Minnie has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimers and cannot live alone any longer. The story covers the three women learning how to be together and how to handle all that comes with an Alzheimers diagnosis, alongside teenage pregnancy.

I thought the characterisation in this book was wonderful - Cat in particular has a lot to deal with but copes well. Alzheimers was sensitively handled, and from personal experience, I could relate to, and understand, both Cat and Minnie.

A lovely story of familial relationships.

8.5/10 ! (4.5 ⭐)

I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Cat, Ruby and Minnie. I loved their story as well as the side plot points with Beth etc, it was so warm and lovely !! 🥹

I haven't read that depth of characterisation in a longgg time ! Aww such a beautiful read and definitely recommend this one !!

I found it ALMOST perfect, except for towards the last few chapters when the time jumps were quite heavy and didn't let us know how much time had passed, would of loved a bit of clarification. But other than that, what a stellar read. 👌🏻

There are some dark themes depicted in this book, so do take care if you're planning to read it and have triggers to these themes. 🩷

I just want to thank Claire Alexander and Met Galley for letting me read this ARC before the release date of 27th February 2025 ! 📚

This is a very emotive read primarily about Cat who is the primary carer for her mum Minnie who has early onset Alzheimer’s and as she now needs a high level of support Minnie has now moved in with Cat. As if caring for her mum isn’t enough she discovers some documents that raise a lot of questions that her mum could have answered if her health was not what it was leaving her very confused and then Cat’s 16 year old daughter Ruby reveals she’s pregnant. Cat is a wonderful character who is having to cope with such a lot and this is written with warmth and relatability whilst still reflecting brilliantly on how difficult her life is. She has some fantastic support in her best friend and employer as well as being fortunate enough for Minnie to have a good supportive carer but that doesn’t undermine the challenges in her life. This covers some difficult topics but is very engaging with characters you really care about and some very uplifting moments thrown in too.

This book is incredible- how do I rate higher than 5 stars?

The book tells the story of three generations of woman all trying to be strong in the midst of life changing circumstances. Cat lives it her teenager daughter, Ruby and now must care for her mother, Minnie who has early onset Alzheimer’s. As all three women try to navigate this new journey there is also a mystery woven throughout the story.

This is beautifully written and so engrossing, I couldn’t put it down. The relationships of the three main characters are truly remarkable and the side characters all lend an added layer. This book was incredibly moving at times, but ultimately hopeful. The writing is so good, the subject matter handled carefully and the dialogue sharp. It is a book I cannot stop thinking about but for all the right reasons.

I loved this authors first novel but this is even better, I cannot recommend this beautiful and interesting book enough. I can’t wait for her next novel.

What a gorgeous read abt three different woman who are going through different things in life and become interconnected. It’s a beautiful story of love, hope, and the bond of female friendship and I loved every moment.