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The Pieces of Us
Marina and Hugh were once madly in love. But after the loss of their beautiful little daughter, grief has created a distance between them that feels impossible to bridge. Marina knows leaving Italy is the only way they will be able to move on, but Thorncliffe Hall, Hugh's family home in England, is so grey and unwelcoming.
Just when life feels like it may never regain colour, Marina and Hugh come across a striking china coffee pot in a London shop window, adorned with a fox flying through the night sky. The coffee pot comes attached with a mystery, one that is connected with Hugh's own family many years ago.
By digging into the past, Marina is about to discover a story far beyond her wildest dreams. But will the past help her heal the present?
A heartwrenching, utterly unforgettable story for fans of Sally Page and Amanda Prowse.
Just when life feels like it may never regain colour, Marina and Hugh come across a striking china coffee pot in a London shop window, adorned with a fox flying through the night sky. The coffee pot comes attached with a mystery, one that is connected with Hugh's own family many years ago.
By digging into the past, Marina is about to discover a story far beyond her wildest dreams. But will the past help her heal the present?
A heartwrenching, utterly unforgettable story for fans of Sally Page and Amanda Prowse.
448 pages, Paperback
Published May 14, 2024
44 people are currently reading
730 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Montague
5 books107 followersFrom early childhood a poem, executed by my own hand was a compulsory requirement for my father’s birthday. To the reluctant five year old this was considered a trial, but by the age of seven writing poetry had become my passion. At ten I won my first national poetry competition and from that moment I dreamt of being a writer.
This particular dream took rather longer than I had hoped because reading law, marriage at nineteen, children, a career as an interior designer – something always got in the way. When I moved with my second husband, three children and four step children to Burnt Norton twenty years ago, and I happened upon the empty pools made famous by TS Eliot in the first of his Four Quartets, I knew that one day the dream would become a reality.
In 2018 after first writing a historical novel set at Burnt Norton I changed agents to William Morris Endeavour and it was here that I felt truly at home. Within a fairly short time, Matilda Forbes Watson had procured a two book deal with Orion for ‘An Italian Affair’ and ‘A Paris Secret’. She recently procured a further two book deal for a novel set in Spain during the Spanish Civil War and a novel set in Greece.
Caroline Montague lives with her husband at Burnt Norton House in the Cotswolds made famous by TS Eliot in the first of his four quartets. She is also a designer and mother to seven children and step-children. She divides her time between England and Italy.
This particular dream took rather longer than I had hoped because reading law, marriage at nineteen, children, a career as an interior designer – something always got in the way. When I moved with my second husband, three children and four step children to Burnt Norton twenty years ago, and I happened upon the empty pools made famous by TS Eliot in the first of his Four Quartets, I knew that one day the dream would become a reality.
In 2018 after first writing a historical novel set at Burnt Norton I changed agents to William Morris Endeavour and it was here that I felt truly at home. Within a fairly short time, Matilda Forbes Watson had procured a two book deal with Orion for ‘An Italian Affair’ and ‘A Paris Secret’. She recently procured a further two book deal for a novel set in Spain during the Spanish Civil War and a novel set in Greece.
Caroline Montague lives with her husband at Burnt Norton House in the Cotswolds made famous by TS Eliot in the first of his four quartets. She is also a designer and mother to seven children and step-children. She divides her time between England and Italy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
January 14, 2024
Marina and Hugh once thought they were the luckiest couple, they met and fell in love in Italy and had a baby girl Francesca. When she passes away in her sleep, grief creates a barrier between them and they decide to move to England. Hugh inherited Thorncliffe Hall three years ago, he feels it's time for him to try and salvage the rundown and overgrown estate.
Marina finds England bleak, cold and if it wasn’t for the kindly caretakers of the property she doesn’t know how she would have coped. Hugh decides to show Marina the sights of London, it doesn’t help their relationship and they do find a china coffee pot, decorated by a flying fox through the night sky and Marina wants to find out who made it. Marina uncovers the link the pot has to the Derrington family and they originally owned both Thorncliffe Manor and Diligence Works. Marina discovers a memoir written by Elody Cole a ward of Lord Derrington and she stayed at Thorncliffe Hall in the 1920’s.
The story has a dual timeline set in 2017 and in 1925 and it’s told from Marina’s and mainly Elody’s points of view.
Elody's mother wanted her to get away from the pot banks and before she developed Plumbism and it’s caused by the lead paint and it’s dust and it was used to paint pottery. Elody doesn’t feel welcome at Thorncliffe Hall, Lord Derrington was her mother's childhood friend, Lady Derrington and her daughter both look down their noses at her and the son Archie is the spare and the rightful heir died in The Great War. Elody promised her mother she would continue the fight for better working conditions, equal pay for women and she discovers the family have been keeping a secret and it’s been hushed up and not everyone knows the truth.
I received a copy of The Pieces of Us by Caroline Montague from Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A well written and emotional narrative that looks at topics such as the loss of a child, how people grieve differently and especially women compared to men.
I didn’t know a lot about the making of china and ornaments in England other than the famous Wedgwood Company and of course pottery would have been thrown, painted and glazed by hand. The story explains the demand for expensive plates and dishes ended after The Great War, people simply couldn’t afford it and the market changed.
Five stars from me, the novel has a strong emphasises on the achievements of women, the fight for equality and perseverance. My favourite two characters were Elody and she's an incredible role model and sweet and talented Lucian.
Marina finds England bleak, cold and if it wasn’t for the kindly caretakers of the property she doesn’t know how she would have coped. Hugh decides to show Marina the sights of London, it doesn’t help their relationship and they do find a china coffee pot, decorated by a flying fox through the night sky and Marina wants to find out who made it. Marina uncovers the link the pot has to the Derrington family and they originally owned both Thorncliffe Manor and Diligence Works. Marina discovers a memoir written by Elody Cole a ward of Lord Derrington and she stayed at Thorncliffe Hall in the 1920’s.
The story has a dual timeline set in 2017 and in 1925 and it’s told from Marina’s and mainly Elody’s points of view.
Elody's mother wanted her to get away from the pot banks and before she developed Plumbism and it’s caused by the lead paint and it’s dust and it was used to paint pottery. Elody doesn’t feel welcome at Thorncliffe Hall, Lord Derrington was her mother's childhood friend, Lady Derrington and her daughter both look down their noses at her and the son Archie is the spare and the rightful heir died in The Great War. Elody promised her mother she would continue the fight for better working conditions, equal pay for women and she discovers the family have been keeping a secret and it’s been hushed up and not everyone knows the truth.
I received a copy of The Pieces of Us by Caroline Montague from Orion Publishing Group and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A well written and emotional narrative that looks at topics such as the loss of a child, how people grieve differently and especially women compared to men.
I didn’t know a lot about the making of china and ornaments in England other than the famous Wedgwood Company and of course pottery would have been thrown, painted and glazed by hand. The story explains the demand for expensive plates and dishes ended after The Great War, people simply couldn’t afford it and the market changed.
Five stars from me, the novel has a strong emphasises on the achievements of women, the fight for equality and perseverance. My favourite two characters were Elody and she's an incredible role model and sweet and talented Lucian.
February 27, 2024
This has been a very special read for me.
I first saw it advertised in the window of my local Waterstones in Staffordshire as a book launch event and seeing the subject matter was the potteries in the 1920’s it excited me greatly. My own Grandma was a pottery girl, the second youngest of 13 she began work at Spode as a lithographer at 14 years old. My own son is named Josiah James for the potteries link! I also worked at the Wedgwood Visitor Centre for a few seasons between University years so the idea of a novel celebrating this understated county was amazing!
It isn’t very often one is able to read a book which depicts one’s local area quite as well as this and being familiar with the locations, turns of phrase (such as calling folk ‘duck’,) the discussion of the Trent and Mersey canal from James Brindley and Josiah Wedgwood (my family tree includes Brindleys so my Aunt believes us to be related!!) even our local delicacy Staffordshire Oatcakes get a mention!!! I found all these inclusions delightful!
The story itself is set over a dual timeline with a current couple grieving over the heartbreak of losing their baby daughter whilst living in Italy who then inherit a big hall in North Staffordshire (think Wuthering Heights-esque) on the edge of the Staffordshire moorlands) and the story of a girl called Elody Cole in the 1920’s who is unexpectedly taken to live in a big house (presumably set north west of Leek having scoured maps and looked up the reference points of Hen Cloud, Luds Church and the bike ride distances mentioned in the story).
Marina and Hugh in the present are struggling to come to terms with their loss whilst taking on new roles in their big hall and come across the memoirs of Elody Cole and her range of bespoke pottery having found a unique piece of earthenware in a London antique shop.
In the 1920’s the women are paid less than the men, despite covering the hard work jobs whilst the men were fighting in WWI and workers rights are not met such as clean water, there is a lot of discontent and women’s suffrage all alongside Elody being taken from her pottery home upon the death of her mother to live in the grand big house of pottery owners.
It’s a different style of writing than I’m used to (you’ll see from my profile I read a lot of fantasy and romance!!) but I was incredibly moved as to how the grief of Marina and Hugh was portrayed and how they took time to move past it whilst fighting for their marriage. I loved Elody’s character and thought she was feisty and kind in the face of resentment and bitterness from the women in the family she joins. The incredible attention to detail shows the depth of research which has gone into this story and the processes of a pottery in the era.
There are a lot of threads entwined within this story, weaving a complex tapestry of women from both eras, health and working conditions for potters in the 1920’s, current government acts for women’s rights and protection today, family life, potteries life, the big house with servants and family in Italy not to mention marriage and time spent in London but they are all successfully finished off in a very satisfying manner which I don’t want to spoil for the reader.
A very good 4 stars from me for this story and well recommended. (I bought a second copy for my Mum who has also loved it and is passing round all my Aunts who are all from the Stoke area too!!)
I first saw it advertised in the window of my local Waterstones in Staffordshire as a book launch event and seeing the subject matter was the potteries in the 1920’s it excited me greatly. My own Grandma was a pottery girl, the second youngest of 13 she began work at Spode as a lithographer at 14 years old. My own son is named Josiah James for the potteries link! I also worked at the Wedgwood Visitor Centre for a few seasons between University years so the idea of a novel celebrating this understated county was amazing!
It isn’t very often one is able to read a book which depicts one’s local area quite as well as this and being familiar with the locations, turns of phrase (such as calling folk ‘duck’,) the discussion of the Trent and Mersey canal from James Brindley and Josiah Wedgwood (my family tree includes Brindleys so my Aunt believes us to be related!!) even our local delicacy Staffordshire Oatcakes get a mention!!! I found all these inclusions delightful!
The story itself is set over a dual timeline with a current couple grieving over the heartbreak of losing their baby daughter whilst living in Italy who then inherit a big hall in North Staffordshire (think Wuthering Heights-esque) on the edge of the Staffordshire moorlands) and the story of a girl called Elody Cole in the 1920’s who is unexpectedly taken to live in a big house (presumably set north west of Leek having scoured maps and looked up the reference points of Hen Cloud, Luds Church and the bike ride distances mentioned in the story).
Marina and Hugh in the present are struggling to come to terms with their loss whilst taking on new roles in their big hall and come across the memoirs of Elody Cole and her range of bespoke pottery having found a unique piece of earthenware in a London antique shop.
In the 1920’s the women are paid less than the men, despite covering the hard work jobs whilst the men were fighting in WWI and workers rights are not met such as clean water, there is a lot of discontent and women’s suffrage all alongside Elody being taken from her pottery home upon the death of her mother to live in the grand big house of pottery owners.
It’s a different style of writing than I’m used to (you’ll see from my profile I read a lot of fantasy and romance!!) but I was incredibly moved as to how the grief of Marina and Hugh was portrayed and how they took time to move past it whilst fighting for their marriage. I loved Elody’s character and thought she was feisty and kind in the face of resentment and bitterness from the women in the family she joins. The incredible attention to detail shows the depth of research which has gone into this story and the processes of a pottery in the era.
There are a lot of threads entwined within this story, weaving a complex tapestry of women from both eras, health and working conditions for potters in the 1920’s, current government acts for women’s rights and protection today, family life, potteries life, the big house with servants and family in Italy not to mention marriage and time spent in London but they are all successfully finished off in a very satisfying manner which I don’t want to spoil for the reader.
A very good 4 stars from me for this story and well recommended. (I bought a second copy for my Mum who has also loved it and is passing round all my Aunts who are all from the Stoke area too!!)
December 27, 2024
kezia pls don’t be mad at me because you bought me it but i CANNOT READ THIS BOOK, i have tried so hard to get into it but i CANT. literal hate x
February 20, 2024
‘Marina leant forward, her gaze moving between tall pillars, capped with carved stone dragons, the lodges either side. Weeds pushed their way through the gravel, and dust covered the windows in a grimy film’
Being from Ireland I knew absolutely nothing about the British Pottery industry and how it transformed itself over the years. The Pottery Industry was originally very much a man’s world where women were second-class citizens. In 1918, women over the age of 30 were given the vote, but the challenge remained to achieve recognition in the workplace. The Pieces of Us takes the reader on a fascinating journey, interweaving the present day with those tumultuous years of the 1920s. In the acknowledgments, Caroline Montague describes this novel as one ‘that celebrates the achievements of women, their fight for equality and their perseverance.’
Marina and Hugh are trying to come to terms with a terrible loss. Having crossed paths and falling in love, their passion for each other was evident to all. When they married they were blissfully happy living a dream existence on Marina’s family estate in Italy. Hugh was an artist but his heritage was linked to the pottery industry back home in the UK. In their grief, the decision is made to return to England, as Hugh has inherited an estate that needs to be tended to. Marina is torn leaving her beautiful Italy behind her but she is also very much aware that change might be the catalyst to help them struggle through.
When Marina arrives to Thorncliffe Hall she is staggered by its enormity and with the work that needs doing. Hugh jumps right in, glad of the distraction but Marina is unable to accept that this is her future. Hugh is battling his own demons but is very private with his feelings, maintaining the stiff upper lip that Marina, as an expressive Italian, is struggling to cope with. With tempers frayed, Hugh suggests a break in London thinking it might help them rediscover each other. What they do discover, by a random coincidence, is a beautiful piece of pottery in an antique shop that has a mystery attached. On investigation, they discover that this piece is connected to Hugh’s family, who were potters in the past.
As the distance between Marina and Hugh widens, Marina attempts to unravel the mystery of the pottery piece. In her research she stumbles upon the name Elody Cole. The discovery of an old memoir hidden away in a locked cupboard in Thorncliffe takes the reader back to 1925, to a country in shock, still mourning the losses of a nation from the devastation and brutality of the First World War.
Elody Cole has had a tough childhood. Her father never returned from the war, leaving her with her mother and her young cousin. But Elody’s troubles continued, following the death of mother from plumbism and with the return of her cousin to his family, leaving her alone. Plumbism was caused by lead poisoning which many folk succumbed to in the pottery industry from their work environment and from licking their brushes to get a finer point. Women’s rights were non-existent in those early days of the 20th century and Elody made a promise to her mother that she would continue the fight for women in the workplace to have fair pay and conditions.
Through a twist of faith Elody was taken in by the Derringtons, a local pottery family but she felt an outsider, not having been born into wealth. Stuck between wanting to help her potter friends fight for their rights and wanting to fit in with the Derringtons, Elody is frustrated and confused. How can she live with herself if she ignores her potter friends? Yet how can she betray the Derringtons who have taken her under their roof?
As Marina and Hugh struggle with the conflict in their relationship, so too is Elody struggling with the conflict in her life. Both tales are seamlessly woven together creating a fascinating dual-time narrative that highlights the struggles faced by women in the past and today. Marina and Elody both have had very different experiences in their lives yet both are strong and complex individuals with a grit and a determination to see justice done.
The historical element of the story particularly interested me, with descriptions that were very vivid and, at times, heart-breaking. There are tough issues highlighted in certain sections of the tale, but Caroline Montague has handled them sensitively and with respect. Strangely, at times, I did feel that I was reading a book that had been written years ago and I mean that as a compliment. There is a gentleness to Caroline Montague’s writing. As a reader, you know that she really cares for her characters.
The Pieces of Us is quite a stirring read, an engaging and educational novel, one that will certainly appeal to all lovers of the saga genre and historical fiction in general.
Being from Ireland I knew absolutely nothing about the British Pottery industry and how it transformed itself over the years. The Pottery Industry was originally very much a man’s world where women were second-class citizens. In 1918, women over the age of 30 were given the vote, but the challenge remained to achieve recognition in the workplace. The Pieces of Us takes the reader on a fascinating journey, interweaving the present day with those tumultuous years of the 1920s. In the acknowledgments, Caroline Montague describes this novel as one ‘that celebrates the achievements of women, their fight for equality and their perseverance.’
Marina and Hugh are trying to come to terms with a terrible loss. Having crossed paths and falling in love, their passion for each other was evident to all. When they married they were blissfully happy living a dream existence on Marina’s family estate in Italy. Hugh was an artist but his heritage was linked to the pottery industry back home in the UK. In their grief, the decision is made to return to England, as Hugh has inherited an estate that needs to be tended to. Marina is torn leaving her beautiful Italy behind her but she is also very much aware that change might be the catalyst to help them struggle through.
When Marina arrives to Thorncliffe Hall she is staggered by its enormity and with the work that needs doing. Hugh jumps right in, glad of the distraction but Marina is unable to accept that this is her future. Hugh is battling his own demons but is very private with his feelings, maintaining the stiff upper lip that Marina, as an expressive Italian, is struggling to cope with. With tempers frayed, Hugh suggests a break in London thinking it might help them rediscover each other. What they do discover, by a random coincidence, is a beautiful piece of pottery in an antique shop that has a mystery attached. On investigation, they discover that this piece is connected to Hugh’s family, who were potters in the past.
As the distance between Marina and Hugh widens, Marina attempts to unravel the mystery of the pottery piece. In her research she stumbles upon the name Elody Cole. The discovery of an old memoir hidden away in a locked cupboard in Thorncliffe takes the reader back to 1925, to a country in shock, still mourning the losses of a nation from the devastation and brutality of the First World War.
Elody Cole has had a tough childhood. Her father never returned from the war, leaving her with her mother and her young cousin. But Elody’s troubles continued, following the death of mother from plumbism and with the return of her cousin to his family, leaving her alone. Plumbism was caused by lead poisoning which many folk succumbed to in the pottery industry from their work environment and from licking their brushes to get a finer point. Women’s rights were non-existent in those early days of the 20th century and Elody made a promise to her mother that she would continue the fight for women in the workplace to have fair pay and conditions.
Through a twist of faith Elody was taken in by the Derringtons, a local pottery family but she felt an outsider, not having been born into wealth. Stuck between wanting to help her potter friends fight for their rights and wanting to fit in with the Derringtons, Elody is frustrated and confused. How can she live with herself if she ignores her potter friends? Yet how can she betray the Derringtons who have taken her under their roof?
As Marina and Hugh struggle with the conflict in their relationship, so too is Elody struggling with the conflict in her life. Both tales are seamlessly woven together creating a fascinating dual-time narrative that highlights the struggles faced by women in the past and today. Marina and Elody both have had very different experiences in their lives yet both are strong and complex individuals with a grit and a determination to see justice done.
The historical element of the story particularly interested me, with descriptions that were very vivid and, at times, heart-breaking. There are tough issues highlighted in certain sections of the tale, but Caroline Montague has handled them sensitively and with respect. Strangely, at times, I did feel that I was reading a book that had been written years ago and I mean that as a compliment. There is a gentleness to Caroline Montague’s writing. As a reader, you know that she really cares for her characters.
The Pieces of Us is quite a stirring read, an engaging and educational novel, one that will certainly appeal to all lovers of the saga genre and historical fiction in general.
November 13, 2023
The opening chapters of this book are heartbreaking – with the loss of their young daughter, Marina and Hugh’s exceptional and intense love affair is placed under unbearable pressure, and they only grow further apart when they return to England from their idyllic life in Italy. Hugh abandons his art and immerses himself in managing his family’s Thorncliffe Hall estate, behind the closed door of his office – while Marina struggles alone in a wholly alien environment.
Until, that is, she begins to uncover a story from the past – inspired first by the discovery of a unique and strikingly beautiful coffee pot, followed by finding a memoir that uncovers an emotionally compelling story linked to the family’s industrial history. A dual time story unfolds, quite beautifully told – as Marina slowly begins to heal, finding a new sense of purpose, and we follow the story of the coffee pot’s designer and maker against the vividly drawn backdrop of the struggle for equal pay and improved conditions in the Potteries in the post war 1920s.
The historical content in this book is quite wonderfully done, clearly meticulously researched but transformed into a story that entirely engaged me at an emotional level – with a feisty heroine whose own story was particularly moving. I learned an immense amount about the lives of women working in the production of pottery, licking the brushes they used to etch their designs and accepting the threat of lead poisoning amid unsanitary conditions ignored by the factory owners – their poverty, their hard lives, but also the strength of their support for each other. The characterisation throughout is superb – people you grow to feel deeply about, complex individuals with such well told personal stories. And we see both sides of the divide – the lives of privilege too, the social conventions that need to be challenged, all with a moral ambiguity that was entirely fascinating.
The story-telling is just superb – perfectly paced, with well handled links between the historical and present day stories, and a real smoothness about the transitions between them. Although sometimes difficult to read at an emotional level, this was a book that had me entirely immersed from beginning to end – beautifully constructed, both worlds entirely real, with moments of considerable drama, and even a touch of romance that only enhanced the story.
This might be the first book I’ve read from the author, but it most certainly won’t be the last – totally unforgettable, intensely moving, and very highly recommended.
Until, that is, she begins to uncover a story from the past – inspired first by the discovery of a unique and strikingly beautiful coffee pot, followed by finding a memoir that uncovers an emotionally compelling story linked to the family’s industrial history. A dual time story unfolds, quite beautifully told – as Marina slowly begins to heal, finding a new sense of purpose, and we follow the story of the coffee pot’s designer and maker against the vividly drawn backdrop of the struggle for equal pay and improved conditions in the Potteries in the post war 1920s.
The historical content in this book is quite wonderfully done, clearly meticulously researched but transformed into a story that entirely engaged me at an emotional level – with a feisty heroine whose own story was particularly moving. I learned an immense amount about the lives of women working in the production of pottery, licking the brushes they used to etch their designs and accepting the threat of lead poisoning amid unsanitary conditions ignored by the factory owners – their poverty, their hard lives, but also the strength of their support for each other. The characterisation throughout is superb – people you grow to feel deeply about, complex individuals with such well told personal stories. And we see both sides of the divide – the lives of privilege too, the social conventions that need to be challenged, all with a moral ambiguity that was entirely fascinating.
The story-telling is just superb – perfectly paced, with well handled links between the historical and present day stories, and a real smoothness about the transitions between them. Although sometimes difficult to read at an emotional level, this was a book that had me entirely immersed from beginning to end – beautifully constructed, both worlds entirely real, with moments of considerable drama, and even a touch of romance that only enhanced the story.
This might be the first book I’ve read from the author, but it most certainly won’t be the last – totally unforgettable, intensely moving, and very highly recommended.
June 20, 2025
5/5 ✨
I stumbled across Caroline Montague’s instagram reel of an evening and fell in love with her lifestyle and energy across her social. Soon after I ordered her book: The Pieces Of Us
I honestly didn’t want this beautiful book to end! I was hooked and fully encompassed on every chapter and word. The book is so cleverly written - providing a dual timeline story about two incredibly strong women who both fight hard for what they believe in fuelled by their loss and grief, both with Elody in The potteries and Women's Rights in 1925 and then with Marina in the present day supporting abused women.
And I particularly liked how the character of the past was able to start healing a character in the present.
If you’re looking for a story about grief and loss, but entertained by female empowerment and love this is the one for you!
It’s a bit different from what I’ve been reading more recently - which I love & definitely needed! I can’t recommend this book enough!!
I stumbled across Caroline Montague’s instagram reel of an evening and fell in love with her lifestyle and energy across her social. Soon after I ordered her book: The Pieces Of Us
I honestly didn’t want this beautiful book to end! I was hooked and fully encompassed on every chapter and word. The book is so cleverly written - providing a dual timeline story about two incredibly strong women who both fight hard for what they believe in fuelled by their loss and grief, both with Elody in The potteries and Women's Rights in 1925 and then with Marina in the present day supporting abused women.
And I particularly liked how the character of the past was able to start healing a character in the present.
If you’re looking for a story about grief and loss, but entertained by female empowerment and love this is the one for you!
It’s a bit different from what I’ve been reading more recently - which I love & definitely needed! I can’t recommend this book enough!!
November 23, 2023
The Pieces of Us was my most anticipated read of 2023 and I absolutely loved it!
The fact that it is set in the Potteries makes it even more special to me.
When we meet Marina and Hugh they are drowning in grief after losing their infant daughter. I can’t even begin to imagine the pain they must be suffering. At a time they need each other the most they are no longer communicating, and Marina feels that moving back to Hugh’s family home, Thorncliffe Hall, might be the only way their marriage will survive such a devastating loss. She seems to be both overwhelmed and underwhelmed with Thorncliffe Hall though.
However, finding a beautiful coffee pot on a trip to London gives Marina a new distraction. She soon finds herself determined to find those who designed and created it.
This is a dual-timeline story and I found myself completely swept up in Marina’s investigations as she discovers the links between the potters of the past and her husband’s family.
It is an emotional and captivating tale featuring places very familiar to me. I love it when I can picture exactly where the characters are! Characters who have been carefully thought out. It is clear how much the author cares about them. There are clever connections between the past and present, and a respectful insight into the history of the potteries.
It very much reminded me (in part) of the film, The Colour Room, which tells the story of Clarice Cliff.
It is the most beautifully written novel. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2023/11/2...
The fact that it is set in the Potteries makes it even more special to me.
When we meet Marina and Hugh they are drowning in grief after losing their infant daughter. I can’t even begin to imagine the pain they must be suffering. At a time they need each other the most they are no longer communicating, and Marina feels that moving back to Hugh’s family home, Thorncliffe Hall, might be the only way their marriage will survive such a devastating loss. She seems to be both overwhelmed and underwhelmed with Thorncliffe Hall though.
However, finding a beautiful coffee pot on a trip to London gives Marina a new distraction. She soon finds herself determined to find those who designed and created it.
This is a dual-timeline story and I found myself completely swept up in Marina’s investigations as she discovers the links between the potters of the past and her husband’s family.
It is an emotional and captivating tale featuring places very familiar to me. I love it when I can picture exactly where the characters are! Characters who have been carefully thought out. It is clear how much the author cares about them. There are clever connections between the past and present, and a respectful insight into the history of the potteries.
It very much reminded me (in part) of the film, The Colour Room, which tells the story of Clarice Cliff.
It is the most beautifully written novel. I cannot recommend it highly enough!
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2023/11/2...
November 7, 2023
The Pieces Of Us by Caroline Montague is a very powerful dual timeline novel that I just could not put down.
It is set in present day and a hundred years earlier, mainly in the Potteries at Stoke. Although the novel opens in present day Italy.
Both time periods have similar themes. In present day and previously, there is loss. A century ago, Britain was recovering from World War I where many young men were used as cannon fodder. No community was left unscathed. Some, never recovered from their loss. They needed someone to blame. They even blamed God, believing that He was deaf to their pleas. “I used to pray a lot, but when everyone I loved was taken away, I realized God wasn’t listening to the likes of me.” God listens to all His children, whether we think He does or not.
There was also much poverty and poor living and working conditions. There were those who saw and either stood up for change, or those philanthropic hearts who worked quietly behind the scenes providing better facilities.
The reader follows the fortunes of women a hundred years ago. Despite stepping into the men’s shoes during World War I, women were subjected to terrible conditions and poorer pay than men. Trade Unions needed to step up to change this. Women rallied together to fight for better conditions and pay. A certain amount of militancy was required.
In both time periods there are women who were abused by men. Other women step up to help them.
The love for a child is strong – whether it is a mother’s love or one that recognizes the need in a child, it matters not. The bond is strong. We witness a beautiful bond develop with a young boy who fears losing love as everyone leaves him. He needs love, care and encouragement in order to step up and thrive.
Death is beautifully described by the young. You will need tissues.
Both time periods are linked by an ancestral home. We see that “all the money in the world… doesn’t buy happiness.” It can actually be a millstone to be in the public eye.
I found The Pieces Of Us very powerful. It was beautifully written and flowed seamlessly between the two time periods.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
It is set in present day and a hundred years earlier, mainly in the Potteries at Stoke. Although the novel opens in present day Italy.
Both time periods have similar themes. In present day and previously, there is loss. A century ago, Britain was recovering from World War I where many young men were used as cannon fodder. No community was left unscathed. Some, never recovered from their loss. They needed someone to blame. They even blamed God, believing that He was deaf to their pleas. “I used to pray a lot, but when everyone I loved was taken away, I realized God wasn’t listening to the likes of me.” God listens to all His children, whether we think He does or not.
There was also much poverty and poor living and working conditions. There were those who saw and either stood up for change, or those philanthropic hearts who worked quietly behind the scenes providing better facilities.
The reader follows the fortunes of women a hundred years ago. Despite stepping into the men’s shoes during World War I, women were subjected to terrible conditions and poorer pay than men. Trade Unions needed to step up to change this. Women rallied together to fight for better conditions and pay. A certain amount of militancy was required.
In both time periods there are women who were abused by men. Other women step up to help them.
The love for a child is strong – whether it is a mother’s love or one that recognizes the need in a child, it matters not. The bond is strong. We witness a beautiful bond develop with a young boy who fears losing love as everyone leaves him. He needs love, care and encouragement in order to step up and thrive.
Death is beautifully described by the young. You will need tissues.
Both time periods are linked by an ancestral home. We see that “all the money in the world… doesn’t buy happiness.” It can actually be a millstone to be in the public eye.
I found The Pieces Of Us very powerful. It was beautifully written and flowed seamlessly between the two time periods.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
April 29, 2024
This book begins with the death of a baby. I almost stopped reading on at this point because of the timing. I am glad I did not, however, since the story moves forward, and it is easier (at least for the reader) to put the incident behind them. The couple in the book took their own time getting to a point where they could feel like they were on the same page and a team.
Marina is Italian, and Hugh is English. When we meet them, they are already married and mourning the loss of their child. In this moment of emotional chaos, Hugh has to go home to deal with a title and land that is now his. On one of the days that they are at peace with each other and on an outing, they chance upon a piece of crockery that starts an investigation.
Although this is a dual timeline narration, there are three plots for a while. One is the current from which the others emerge. The immediate past is about how Hugh and Marina met, and the historical one is about which Marina is reading about in a diary. There is logic to how much and how the content got into the book, which is explained by the author at the very end.
The plot was interesting and had people who were believable and could be championed. The writing was the highlight and the reason I kept going. I may have veered off of dual timelines after reading one too many, but this felt different, and I would definitely read another by the author.
I received an ARC I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is based on my own reading experience.
Marina is Italian, and Hugh is English. When we meet them, they are already married and mourning the loss of their child. In this moment of emotional chaos, Hugh has to go home to deal with a title and land that is now his. On one of the days that they are at peace with each other and on an outing, they chance upon a piece of crockery that starts an investigation.
Although this is a dual timeline narration, there are three plots for a while. One is the current from which the others emerge. The immediate past is about how Hugh and Marina met, and the historical one is about which Marina is reading about in a diary. There is logic to how much and how the content got into the book, which is explained by the author at the very end.
The plot was interesting and had people who were believable and could be championed. The writing was the highlight and the reason I kept going. I may have veered off of dual timelines after reading one too many, but this felt different, and I would definitely read another by the author.
I received an ARC I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is based on my own reading experience.
January 15, 2024
The Pieces of Us is a dual timeline story with a focus on an industry that I found really interesting to read about. The modern day storyline focuses on Marina and Hugh. Having suffered a terrible tragedy they leave Marina's native Italy to live at Thorncliffe Hall, Hugh's family seat in Staffordshire. Struggling to deal with her loss, Marina wants to find out more about a coffee pot which features a fox soaring through the air and which seems to have a link to Thorncliffe and Hugh's ancestors.
It was the idea of a family mystery and the history of the coffee pot that really intrigued me about this book and made me want to read it but it ended up being the historical storyline, set in 1925, which I found more absorbing, and which made up the greater part of the book. Without giving too much away, it follows a plucky young woman and delves into life in the potteries, the skills required, and the dangers of such work. I found myself really drawn into this strand and I very much liked and admired the protagonist with her interest in women's rights and her work as a potter.
The Pieces of Us is an engaging read which I became thoroughly engrossed in. The author has clearly researched the potteries and has weaved together a story that transported me to the working conditions of the 1920s alongside the opulence those of privilege enjoyed, all against the backdrop of those difficult post-First World War years. I enjoyed it very much.
It was the idea of a family mystery and the history of the coffee pot that really intrigued me about this book and made me want to read it but it ended up being the historical storyline, set in 1925, which I found more absorbing, and which made up the greater part of the book. Without giving too much away, it follows a plucky young woman and delves into life in the potteries, the skills required, and the dangers of such work. I found myself really drawn into this strand and I very much liked and admired the protagonist with her interest in women's rights and her work as a potter.
The Pieces of Us is an engaging read which I became thoroughly engrossed in. The author has clearly researched the potteries and has weaved together a story that transported me to the working conditions of the 1920s alongside the opulence those of privilege enjoyed, all against the backdrop of those difficult post-First World War years. I enjoyed it very much.
November 15, 2023
This has to have been one of the most engrossing and all encompassing books I have read this year. I was drawn into this incredibly well written story from the first page. As a dual timeline story about two incredibly strong women who both fight hard for what they believe in, both with Elody in The potteries and Women's Rights in 1925 and then with Marina in the present day supporting abused women.
The stories of both of their lives, the links that bind them together and the way they deal with tragedy and their beliefs, all come together to create a story of strength and determination.
As well as the power behind these two incredible women there is the uncertainty of their relationships and what will be the outcome in both cases, especially as both are affected by the death of a child in different circumstances.
I have been impressed with Caroline's books ever since I read " An Italian Affair". however, for me , "The pieces of Us" is the best yet. It will pull at your heartstrings whilst making you realise how women in different eras have been treated, and are still treated today.
This is a book about strong women who have been determined to make a difference for other women despite what is going on in their own lives.
A brilliant 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟piece of fiction from start to finish and with a lovely addition of Samuel Pepys poems at the end to complete the book.
The stories of both of their lives, the links that bind them together and the way they deal with tragedy and their beliefs, all come together to create a story of strength and determination.
As well as the power behind these two incredible women there is the uncertainty of their relationships and what will be the outcome in both cases, especially as both are affected by the death of a child in different circumstances.
I have been impressed with Caroline's books ever since I read " An Italian Affair". however, for me , "The pieces of Us" is the best yet. It will pull at your heartstrings whilst making you realise how women in different eras have been treated, and are still treated today.
This is a book about strong women who have been determined to make a difference for other women despite what is going on in their own lives.
A brilliant 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟piece of fiction from start to finish and with a lovely addition of Samuel Pepys poems at the end to complete the book.
February 16, 2024
The Pieces of You was a lovely dual time novel.
Marina and Hugh have barely survived the worst tragedy a couple can endure, the death of their baby daughter Francesca. They have left Marina’s home in Italy to return to Hugh’s home, Thorncliffe Hall in England. Marina an attorney and Hugh an artist, who has inherited his uncle’s house and title are trying to start anew, but can one really start anew after such an awful tragedy? While on a getaway to London they stumble across a coffee pot in an antique store that was created in the pottery factory owned by Hugh’s ancestors, by a mysterious artist named Elody Cole. Elody was a porcelain artist for the Derrington pottery factory after WWI. Elody mysteriously disappeared and her creations are limited and sought after. Marina decides to investigate what happened to Elody and since Elody once lived at Thorncliffe Hall, she had the perfect place to start. After finding a diary by Elody, Marina starts tp piece together her life. Will finding out what happned to Elody bring solace to Marina and Hugh?
This was a touching story of grief, perseverance and love. I recommend for anyone who wants to read a dual time mystery with redemptive arcs,
Thanks to Netgalley, Orion publishing group and the author for the chance to read and review this book.
Marina and Hugh have barely survived the worst tragedy a couple can endure, the death of their baby daughter Francesca. They have left Marina’s home in Italy to return to Hugh’s home, Thorncliffe Hall in England. Marina an attorney and Hugh an artist, who has inherited his uncle’s house and title are trying to start anew, but can one really start anew after such an awful tragedy? While on a getaway to London they stumble across a coffee pot in an antique store that was created in the pottery factory owned by Hugh’s ancestors, by a mysterious artist named Elody Cole. Elody was a porcelain artist for the Derrington pottery factory after WWI. Elody mysteriously disappeared and her creations are limited and sought after. Marina decides to investigate what happened to Elody and since Elody once lived at Thorncliffe Hall, she had the perfect place to start. After finding a diary by Elody, Marina starts tp piece together her life. Will finding out what happned to Elody bring solace to Marina and Hugh?
This was a touching story of grief, perseverance and love. I recommend for anyone who wants to read a dual time mystery with redemptive arcs,
Thanks to Netgalley, Orion publishing group and the author for the chance to read and review this book.
March 14, 2024
I have purchased all of Caroline Montague's novels and once again I was enticed, engrossed and captivated by Caroline's writing. The Pieces of Us contains so many elements for the reader- love, heartache, grief, history, society and, importantly, the position, struggle and 'role' of women in the world through the years. I was so excited when Caroline's latest novel arrived and it totally absorbed me from the moment I started reading -so much so that I dreaded finishing it and was so disappointed when I actually DID! There is something about Caroline Montague's writing that is utterly absorbing. She really understands true emotion and pain and her ability with words is outstanding. I felt I could really 'associate' with both Elody and Marina on many levels. I admire Caroline's talent in being able to capture the varied and complicated elements of society, different cultures and classes. The Pieces of Us cannot be too highly recommended - and really should be nominated as a best seller. I really do hope that Caroline Montague comes out with another of her exquisite novels very soon indeed.
November 22, 2023
I was captivated by Caroline's book, set in two completely different times but linked with similar themes. It follows the stories and struggles of two characters, Marian and Elody. I loved how the author portrayed the differences between these two women in their respective timelines and their similarities. Both characters are so relatable that you can't help but feel connected to them and root for them from the beginning. Overall, it was a great read.
The plot of the book flowed seamlessly. Even though it jumped between the present day and the 1920s, I was always clear about where I was and what was happening. The book offered a unique and exciting take on women's history, and I would describe it as a family saga mixed with historical fiction. The author, Montague, did a fantastic job of explaining the scenery in both the past and present, and I could vividly imagine where the characters were at every point in the book. This was my first read by this author, but I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
#thepiecesofus #bookreview #booktour #bookfriends
The plot of the book flowed seamlessly. Even though it jumped between the present day and the 1920s, I was always clear about where I was and what was happening. The book offered a unique and exciting take on women's history, and I would describe it as a family saga mixed with historical fiction. The author, Montague, did a fantastic job of explaining the scenery in both the past and present, and I could vividly imagine where the characters were at every point in the book. This was my first read by this author, but I'm looking forward to reading more of her work in the future.
#thepiecesofus #bookreview #booktour #bookfriends
November 8, 2023
This needs to be on your TBR!
A book set in two completely times but linked with similar themes, Caroline really captivated me with this read. Following Marian and Elody as they tell their stories and struggles. I enjoyed how the author not only portrayed the differences between these two characters in their separate time lines but also their similarities. You can't help but feel connected to both of these women and root for them from the start.
The plot flowed seamlessly and even though we were jumping between present day and the 1920s I was never confused on where I was or what was happening. This was a unique and exciting take on women's history and I would describe this read as a family saga mixed with historical fiction. Montague did an amazing job of describing the scenery in the past and present and I could vividly imagine where these characters were at every point in the book. This is my first read by this author but I hope to read more by her in the future.
A book set in two completely times but linked with similar themes, Caroline really captivated me with this read. Following Marian and Elody as they tell their stories and struggles. I enjoyed how the author not only portrayed the differences between these two characters in their separate time lines but also their similarities. You can't help but feel connected to both of these women and root for them from the start.
The plot flowed seamlessly and even though we were jumping between present day and the 1920s I was never confused on where I was or what was happening. This was a unique and exciting take on women's history and I would describe this read as a family saga mixed with historical fiction. Montague did an amazing job of describing the scenery in the past and present and I could vividly imagine where these characters were at every point in the book. This is my first read by this author but I hope to read more by her in the future.
February 29, 2024
Caroline Montague is a wizard with words. The Pieces Of Us begins with a poignant and impactful start, setting a tone that truly resonated with me. The intense descriptions made me feel as If I was actually there as a bystander.
The book moves back and forth in time making both timelines come to life.
The characters are well developed with flaws and secrets. I particularly liked where the character of the past was able to start healing a character in the present.
The book moved like a flower opening from bud one petal at a time. Just giving enough but leaving you knowing there is much more to come until everything is revealed.
The pieces of us truly had it all emotion in spades, secrets untold, a mystery unfolding. I was invested in the past and the present right until the very end where the book still had the ability to make me cry. A 5-star book for lovers of history, romance and for books with dual points of view and one I highly recommend.
The book moves back and forth in time making both timelines come to life.
The characters are well developed with flaws and secrets. I particularly liked where the character of the past was able to start healing a character in the present.
The book moved like a flower opening from bud one petal at a time. Just giving enough but leaving you knowing there is much more to come until everything is revealed.
The pieces of us truly had it all emotion in spades, secrets untold, a mystery unfolding. I was invested in the past and the present right until the very end where the book still had the ability to make me cry. A 5-star book for lovers of history, romance and for books with dual points of view and one I highly recommend.
July 3, 2024
I loved this book by the end but it took a while to get going and I thought some of the early dialogue was a bit unpolished. However, it was such a sweet story set across dual time periods. It centres around a young potter called Elody who loses her family members as a teenager, her Mum to lead poisoning from the paints at the pottery where she worked. Elody vows to fight for better conditions and pay for women in a post-WW1 world in which the women have kept the businesses going whilst the men were at war. There is a touching love story between herself and a child she deeply cares for as well as a beautiful romance. Definitely recommend and would have given the full 5 stars were it not for a slow start.
July 17, 2024
I loved the historical content of this book a d thought that deserved 5 stars but I can't really understand why the author set this in two different time zones. The Elody story would have been enough to hold this together and it's a pity the modern day couple were included. I found Hugh and his wife boring characters and I nearly gave up on this book at the beginning, thank goodness Elody and Lucien appeared when they did. I was disappointed that the author chose to end the book with these two awful characters instead of letting us read what happened in the 1920s, it was left to Hugh and co to tell the story of what happened in the past. I would definitely read another book from this author as the historical content is what really sells this book.
March 22, 2024
From ‘Brideshead Revisited’ to ‘Saltburn’ - we all love a good story set in a stately home. ‘The Pieces of Us’ sits comfortably with the likes of ‘Downton Abbey’ in mood and tone, with the added dimension of a story within story. And it does so with an old-fashioned gentleness that makes for a very engaging read.
This is the first book I’ve read that explores the working conditions of women in the potteries, during and after World War I. It celebrates the women’s tireless campaign for equal pay. Montague shines a light on their fight for equality and for this alone she should be congratulated - and supported by being added to everyone’s bookshelves.
This is the first book I’ve read that explores the working conditions of women in the potteries, during and after World War I. It celebrates the women’s tireless campaign for equal pay. Montague shines a light on their fight for equality and for this alone she should be congratulated - and supported by being added to everyone’s bookshelves.
November 12, 2023
I was immediately hooked on this just from the synopsis and the story was heart wrenching because of the loss of their daughter.
The settings of both England and Italy are very well detailed.
The mystery of the teapot and all the family secrets and the move from Italy make The Pieces of Us an incredibly well put together novel that pulled at my heartstrings, and I know it’ll stay with me a long time.
Thanks to Caroline Montague, Rachel’s Random Resources and Orion Books for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars
The settings of both England and Italy are very well detailed.
The mystery of the teapot and all the family secrets and the move from Italy make The Pieces of Us an incredibly well put together novel that pulled at my heartstrings, and I know it’ll stay with me a long time.
Thanks to Caroline Montague, Rachel’s Random Resources and Orion Books for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars
September 11, 2025
*audio book. This story starts off with an infant death. And also includes a child death. So trigger warning there. This is a dual timeline after a coffee pot is found in present day and the new owners wanted to know the history behind it. I actually didn’t mind the historical story attached to it. It shows the importance of women’s rights and how lead paint impacted the women who worked in pottery. I didn’t care about the present day story attached all but understand why it was part of the story. The whole thing was just meh.
October 25, 2023
I would describe this book as a family saga, dual timeline with Marina’s story set in the present day and Elody’s story set in the 1920’s. As a fan of historical fiction, I much preferred Elody’s story.
Unfortunately, I didn’t really engage with this book. Although well written, I found the plot very slow paced, with many pages having too many mundane descriptions, which did detract from an interesting idea and I struggled to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance review copy.
Unfortunately, I didn’t really engage with this book. Although well written, I found the plot very slow paced, with many pages having too many mundane descriptions, which did detract from an interesting idea and I struggled to finish.
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance review copy.
November 11, 2023
The Pieces of Us is utterly moving and it will bring you to tears! I could feel Marina and Hugh pain seeping through the pages and at times it was hard to keep reading as there grief made me feel so sorrow filled. Despite this I carried on and it was such a beautiful story with a mystery that may help them heal. The story feels so realistic that is why I think I felt the emotions so deeply. The character development is well written and makes it a absorbing and heartfelt read.
May 19, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book especially the story of Elody and her fight for equal rights for women and improved conditions in the potteries. The dual timeline enabled us to meet Marina and Hugh and their heartbreak at the loss of their baby. I was not quite as absorbed in their story as I was in Elody’s and didn’t feel the reader got to know their characters quite so well.
August 3, 2024
The ending felt rushed personally. I believe there could of been at least 2 more chapters.
Unless this book had a sequel, it had left a lot of unanswered questions.
Good book though, kept me gripped. I preferred the ‘past’ chapters more
Unless this book had a sequel, it had left a lot of unanswered questions.
Good book though, kept me gripped. I preferred the ‘past’ chapters more
September 21, 2024
What a great book. This was one of our book club features of the month. It was a very moving book which had me in tears near the end I was so invested. This book has it all love, romance, sorrow and loss and makes you appreciate everything you have.
February 20, 2025
A beautifully written book, once again Caroline Montague captures you in a dual narrative, multi-character storyline. I could just picture myself sitting on a window seat on a rainy day surrounded by Burleigh pottery. Couldn’t recommend enough and can’t wait for her next novel! Soon please!!
February 19, 2024
A enchanting and tenderly moving story that will stay with you long after the last page. Emotional and grief filled read that is sad and inspiring.
June 11, 2024
Really enjoyed his book especially Elody’s story .
August 1, 2024
I feel like this is a book i’ll remember for the rest of my life. Beautifully written, completely original and entirely insightful.
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