Pieces of Me

The Wilder Brothers #9

by Carrie Ann Ryan

Gabriel Wilder.
Rock God.
Voice of an angel.
And in love with his best friend’s sister.
Resisting Briar Ashford has been one of the hardest things he’s ever done.
Until the one night he breaks his promise.
Only when tragedy strikes, forgiveness slips through his fingers.

Briar Ashford never let herself fall for her brother’s best friend.
Until the night she did.
She wanted to live in the shadows, writing the songs for the stars who shined the brightest—not finding a way to co-parent with the man who refuses to pick up his guitar again.

The world is waiting for Gabriel Wilder to rise from the ashes. Only, first, he’ll have to figure out if he’s ready to finally let himself love the one woman who never knew had a claim to his heart all along.


**Pieces of Me is a rockstar, best friend’s little sister, accidental pregnancy romance in the Wilder Brothers series featuring Gabriel and Briar. Each one can be read as a complete standalone. A HEA is guaranteed!**

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Family, Surprise Pregnancy, Contemporary Romance

396 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 24, 2025

About the author

Carrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.

The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:

The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series

Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.

Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.

The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.

Reviews

[BookSiren Baddie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gabriel and Briar's story is one for the records. Their chemistry is sizzling hot, the best friend's little sister/forbidden trope aspects were interesting.
I enjoyed their incredible love story so much, and it was even funny. I highly recommend it.

[Nadene (Totally Addicted to Reading) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Pieces of Me by Carrie Ryan is an emotional and captivating tale that will tug at your heartstrings. This book is perfect for readers who adore the best friend's sister romance trope. A beautifully written story, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps you hooked from start to finish. 

Pieces of Me is the ninth book in the Wilder Brothers series. Each book works well as a standalone. I am fairly new to the series. This is the second book I am reading, the first being Forever for Us.

What's the worst that could happen if you chose to give into your feelings and sleep with your best friend's sister? Well in Gabriel Wilder and Bria Ashford's world tragedy struck changing their lives unexpectedly. Not able to handle the change, Gabriel shut himself off from the world and attempted to find solace in alcohol. However, with every action there is always consequences. A fact Gabriel will discover when Briar came back into his life eight months after the terrible tragedy. This just might be the catalyst to end the destructive journey of guilt and self-pity

Briar and Gabriel had a lot to work through and they had a long road to travel. It took a while, but Gabriel finally recognizes that the guilt he bore was misplaced. While he can't change what occurred in the past, he chose to embrace the changes thus paving the way for a happier future.

The story that is Pieces of Me is so riddled with emotions it leaves the reader breathless and eager for more. Well-paced, authentic and filled with love, hope, forgiveness and healing Pieces of Me is a beautiful story about finding happiness and love after experiencing loss. Prepare for a journey riddled with heartbreak, grief, healing and love.  A story that will have you shedding tears and leave you with a smile in the end.

This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading

[Vfields Don't touch my happy! · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’ve been following the series, we’ve all been waiting for Gabriel to have his story. A tough event ends up in a sad, painful situation that crushed his life. He’s always been in love with a specific songwriter and things happen and a baby is born. It is a sweet story, it’s fun. It was nice watching them come together, but one of the things that irritated me was she suddenly had this irrational feeling about the public and had great fear of raising her child which I thought was strange since she’s has been in that world her entire adult life. That was a little weird for me, but I enjoyed the conclusion.

[Lynn_G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional, messy, wonderful, all the hallmarks of a Carrie Ann Ryan joint. Normally I like to review as soon as I possibly can to get it all out so I’m accurate in my experience of a book. With Briar and Gabriel however, I had to let it marinate for a hot minute before putting it into words.

Imagine you hook up with your forever crush, your brother’s band mate and best friend, his ride or die, and you’ve kept it secret for weeks and weeks, but in an unexpected run in with that hookup where you address the elephant on the tour bus, your brother overhears and loses it on you both. Angry and betrayed, he storms off to leave you and an abashed bestie to navigate what comes next. It becomes painfully evident the rock god before you wishes it’d never happened, ain’t that a b!t€h. But hold up a second because what comes next is a gut-wrenching, life-changing, almost unspeakable loss.

As if that entire fever dream of horrors weren’t enough, there’s a permanent living reminder of the shame fest that was your one wild night.

In lesser hands this entire set of circumstances would be a sh!z show, but Carrie Ann Ryan writes pathos and angst with just the right touch of realism, empathy, and real growth. The reader is treated to a beautiful, well paced, authentic feeling ride from abject despair to redemption and hope. It’s just lovely, and I’m so grateful to have received an opportunity to receive an advance reader copy from the author, and I’m very happy to share my honest - and hopefully spoiler-free - review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carrie Ann Ryan writes messy angst vulnerable stubborn characters so well.

Gabriel and Briar were no exception. From the beginning you know this book is gonna tug at your heartstrings.

I love how she writes imperfect couples takes them down to the studs and builds them back up. These two are meant for each other. I’ve been waiting for this book and it did not disappoint.

[Tamara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally we get Gabriel (rock star)'s HEA

And what a HEA it is - starts with bang or is it a crash & a ton of guilt but Briar and Gabe make it through to their HEA.

Great read!

Can't want for Brooks and Rory's book - oooo there's the history there.

[Jaimie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book, and the characters. Carrie Ann can write just about anything and I would read it.
These characters are wonderful and the story will keep you entertained.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Digital
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When Gabriel finally lets himself talk with Briar, his best friend's sister, about them crossing the forbidden line, something so awful happens, that it makes their world fall apart. Now he's wallowing in the dark following the tragedy, but he and Briar have unfinished business. Business that will have a permanent effect on all of their lives.



Briar never wanted to be in the public eye, with adoring (and not so adoring) eyes on her all the time, the way they are on her brother and his bandmates. She prefers to write her songs in private, and live her life away from the limelight of rockstar fame. But when she and her brother's best friend and bandmate, Gabriel Wilder, become more than friends, even just once, the aftereffects shock both their worlds in such a tragic way that she's not sure they'll ever move on. Now she and Gabriel have to deal with not just the tragedy, but also something upcoming that might be the key to bring Gabriel out of the darkness he's wallowing in.



I normally read brother's best friend romances for the forbidden deliciousness of it all, which this story definitely has, but there's also so, so much more. There's a level of emotional intensity and push and pull that I wasn't expecting. There's so much pain here, but also as much, or even more, love between so many people, not just Briar and Gabriel, that I just knew everyone would come out of the darkness and find the happiness they deserved. I wanted to cry along with Gabriel and Briar as they grieved their loss, I cheered when they found their joy, and I swooned as the two fell in love, even with the bittersweet pain they'd always experience in the back of their minds.



ARC provided by the author for an honest review.

Review: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting patiently for Gabriel’s story for some time, hoping he would find his happy, and this quickly jumped to the top of my favorites in the series because of the journey he took to find his HEA!

Gabriel Wilder is world famous, traveling with his band on tour more often than he is home with his family. He has watched his brothers and cousins find love from afar, and isn’t in a hurry to join their ranks The road leaves little time for a relationship.

Briar Ashford has been in the background, writing the hits that her brother’s band and others make famous. She doesn’t like the limelight and is perfectly content to stay in the wings writing her songs for others to perform. She has avoided her brother’s best friend and bandmate for years but gives in to her desire one night. Knowing her brother would never understand, they agree to keep it a secret, except secrets never last and the aftermath of the revelation leaves them all with broken hearts and a minefield of grief to navigate.

There was so much emotional trauma on these pages. From the beginning it was clear that these two had a long hard road if they were going to find a happily-ever-after together. But life doesn’t always take a clear path and Gabriel and Briar have some twists thrown in their way. My heart broke repeatedly reading this and I could not put it down, finishing in a single day.

Gabriel spent more time around his family (or circling the edge of his family group) in this book than we’ve seen him in the rest of the series and it was so good to see the rest of the family as they navigated what it was that Gabe needed from them in the moment. He wasn’t keen on opening up to them, so even though they knew something happened, it wasn’t until Briar tracked him down that the family learned what was fully happening in his life. I loved the way they rallied around him, both before and after it became clear what was happening.

There is one more book in the Wilder series, and I can’t wait to see what Brooks has in store for us.

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[ZETTER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect Harmony!!!

Gabriel Wilder aka God of Rock/Voice of an Angel is the Rockstar in the Wilder family. He and his brothers didn't had an easy childhood, they're all dealing with their own demons. He has always been in love with his best-friend and fellow band member, Malcom "Mal" Ashford's sister, Briar Ashford. but he never thought of settling down with her nor anyone else for that matters.

He saw his cousins and his brothers find their happily ever afters yet he still swore to himself that he would never make a move on her until one fateful night when he broke that said promise. And his life changed forever.

Briar Ashford, song writer for the stars, she always lived in the shadows never intended to leave it nor fall in love with her brother's best-friend, Gabriel Wilder. Yet fate had other plans for her when one night she decided to give in, she took a chance with the man she had always loved and admired. Now both of their lives were changing after a heart-wrenching tragedy. They were both grieving in their own way.

Gabriel wasn't doing well and his family wasn't about to let him fall into the abyss no matter how hard he tried keeping them at arm's lengths. Fast forward a few months later and once again he gets an unexpected life changing surprise. One that he never knew he wanted but needed.

Loved how the Wilder women took the Ashford sisters in as honorary Wilders, their friendship was one for the books. The two families and their friends coming together for Gabe and Briar was beautiful. Especially when their whole world was rocked to its core.

It was great to get mentions and appearances from previous characters, it always feel like coming home. Gabe finally found what he was looking for, his safe haven.

PIECES OF ME is the ninth book in Carrie Ann Ryan's the WILDER BROTHERS  series. It was a wonderful, emotional roller-coaster and a fantastic read. Carrie Ann Ryan had me in tears, laughing and kept me on my toes from start to finish. She did such an outstanding job. Two thumbs up and a recommendation for you guys to grab yourselves this book! 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

****I received this book, without any obligation to review.****

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This poignant book touched my heart, sometimes induced tears, and captured my attention from the first page to the last. It is a story of forbidden love, loss, grief and regrets. Gabriel and Briar have been fiercely attracted to each other for years and hiding a secret crush not only from each other, but especially from her brother, Mal, who happens to be his best friend and bandmate. Mal warned Gabriel to stay away from his sister because of his womanizing ways, but Gabriel and Briar gave into their desire for each other for one passion-filled interlude. Mal overhears a conversation between them and his anger and hurt leaves them all feeling devastated. Unfortunately, an unimaginable tragedy makes it impossible to heal the fractures in the relationships between friends and siblings.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, so many are left grieving, but none more so than Gabriel and Briar. Their grief is compounded by feelings of guilt and regret. Fortunately, they both have family to support them and help them elude the unrelenting paparazzi. Gabriel is ignoring everything and everyone outside of his family, including Briar, while he secludes himself at the resort and winery his family owns. He can’t stop thinking about her or how hurt and angry Mal was the last time he saw him. The music, the band and his rockstar career are all overshadowed by his grief and unresolved guilt. Then Briar shows up to berate him for not answering her texts, emails, and letters. She demands his attention and seeing her finally shoves him out of the hole he had dug for himself. She gives him a reason to move forward, to find the light rather than to linger in the darkness of his grief and regrets.

I loved the sizzle and connection between Briar and Gabriel, their shared love of music, and how they are both very successful professionally. They don’t need the other to advance professionally, but their talents mesh seamlessly. I also enjoyed their big supportive and protective families. It was great to see familiar characters from the other Wilder books and catch up with their lives too. I won’t hesitate to recommend this exceptional book.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Take my heart, why don't you, Carrie Ann Ryan?! Goodness, but how she put it through the wringer with the ninth novel in the Wilder Brothers series. Pieces of Me is falling-for-your-best-friend's-sibling, friends-to-lovers, accidental pregnancy romance, and it's the penultimate book in the series. And did I mention that the male main character is a rock star? Yep, Gabriel Wilder is finally getting his story told, and the lead singer of Wilder experiences devastation before he gets to that happily-ever-after that most of his brothers and cousins have already claimed for themselves. (Side note: this book is also a crossover between two series--The Wilder Brothers and the upcoming Ashford Creek series, but more on that later.)

Rock star Gabriel Wilder always knew his best friend's younger sister was off-limits, but once he'd crossed the line with songwriter Briar Ashford, he knew it might cost him Mal's friendship. Unfortunately, it cost Gabriel and Briar more than they could have ever imagined. Months after tragedy hit, Gabriel finds himself face to face with Briar--and the realization that their one night together have led to an unexpected result. Now, he's going to have to answer certain questions he can no longer avoid. Is there a future for the band without Mal as part of it? How does he deal with the guilt of what happened the night he and Briar were discovered to have slept together? And is there any chance for he and Briar to have something more than being co-parents? It's time for Gabriel to pick up the pieces of his fragmented life.

I'm a firm believer in the idea and knowledge that hope can be found after despair, and that is more than evident in Gabriel and Briar's story. Carrying guilt alongside our grief isn't all that foreign, sadly enough, and I empathized with the main characters. I know how it feels to lose your brother unexpectedly, and I admired Briar's strength and conviction. Gabriel's journey was stuck in neutral for quite a bit, but Briar showing up was like a light in the darkness for him, whether he realized it or not. I loved having the Wilders around, and I'm curious to learn more about the Ashfords, which is why I'm looking forward to checking out their series once book one is released. For now, it's all about the five-starred Pieces of Me.

[Jessica Matts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Texas & the Wilder brothers. I’m starting to get sad…this series is almost done…there are two Wilders stories left: Gabe & Brooks.

Pieces of Me is Gabe Wilder & Briar Ashford’s story. Tissues are going to be needed for this book…like from the start.

What happens when you fall for your best friend’s sister? What happens when both give in to their feelings for a night?

Then before ‘cooler’ heads can prevail…tragedy strikes.

Gabe ‘retreats’ to the Wilder Resort…trying to bury not only the past…but almost all emotions.

Then he gets an ‘oh, f*ck’ wakeup moment.

Can Gabe & Briar find forgiveness…or should I say…can a stubborn Wilder male grovel enough…plus forgive himself…for something that wasn’t his fault (but that’s a Wilder male…blaming himself).

Can they figure out their future…potentially both in and out of the spotlight?

The answers…plus a few surprises…can be found within the pages of Pieces of Me. Go pre-order the book (it’s out on Monday, Feb 24), then make sure you have a box (or two) of tissues on hand, a warm blanket, a cup of tea (or hot chocolate, or coffee) & a comfortable reading spot…then curl up & spend some time with the Wilders.

I fell in love with Eliza’s brothers (and then cousins) throughout this series, and while I’m sad to know that there is only one book left…I know that we’ll at least be seeing a few Wilders popping up in Colorado (not just because of Eliza)…but because Briar has siblings…siblings that will soon be getting their own happily-ever-afters.

Five out of five stars for Pieces of Me…and I can’t wait to read Brooks’ story later this year & then try to figure out who ends up being my top favorite Wilder male.

[Linda Ketter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pieces of Me is book 9 of The Wilder Brothers and follows rockstar Gabriel Wilder on his journey with songwriter Briar Ashford. Note, this is a crossover book with The Ashford Creek series coming in 2026.

Gabriel Wilder is the lead singer of his world famous band, Wilder. His best friend, Mal is the drummer. They know each other’s secrets, except for the explosive one Gabriel is keeping from everyone.

Briar Ashford is Mal’s younger sister. She has a messy family history and has moved away from her hometown because of it.

When Briar visits Mal while he is on tour with Wilder, chaos will ensue. Words will be spoken that can never be taken back. Bro code will be broken and can never be repaired. And a tragedy prevents any possibility of making amends.

Gabriel goes home to the Wilder Resort and Winery to heal and hide. He has harboring guilt over his actions and words and is not able to forgive himself. He ignores his phone and lives a quiet life helping his brothers and cousins repair and build out the resort.

When he receives surprise visitors he can’t believe his eyes. His reaction is surprisingly unexpected. Man he did not expect what he saw or his reaction.

Briar tracks Gabriel down at the resort and shows up bearing news. And she wants to talk. But he is not able to talk about what happened or his feelings. But he does step up to help her out with her surprise.

All he can think about is “what would Mal think of me now?” And “Mal must be so mad at me for what I did.” He does not see any positive yet.

But when another tragedy strikes him and Briar, how will they cope?

I loved seeing Gabriel’s brothers being loving uncles. And although they’re not in a relationship, the brothers worry about Briar and constantly check in on her , even if they use their spouses to do it.

I have to admit I am looking forward to The Ashford Creek series. After being introduced to Teagan and hearing Briar’s history with her father I need more of them and their stories.

And I’m really hoping Mal gets some kind of book in The Ashford Creek series. His story deserves to be told.

Aiden Snow is my favorite male narrator and he does not disappoint as Gabriel. Samantha Cook plays Briar so perfectly. These two play well together and I look forward to listening to them together again.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Voice of an Angel Stars

The heartbreaking sorrow and the joy of a new life battle for supremacy within Gabriel Wilder in Pieces of Me, the ninth book in the Wilder Brothers Series.

Briar and Gabriel have been secretly pining for one another, but there has always been one thing, or shall I say, person, standing in their way: Briar's brother Mal, who is also Gabriel's best friend, but one night with a little too much alcohol, changes things.

This story will have you all over the place with your emotions, so be prepared. I wasn't, and let me tell you, it's not a good look driving with big tears running down your face, but that is exactly what happened to me. It's a good thing I always have tissues close, although I did have to wait until I came to a red light to reach the back seat and grab the box. I suggest you keep yours a bit closer.

Aiden Snow and Samantha Cook did the narration for Pieces of Me. If you can listen to the book, I highly recommend it; the narration was excellent. You could feel every emotion as if the events were happening to the narrators themselves.

Rҽαԃ ɱყ ϝυʅʅ ɾҽʋιҽɯ ԋҽɾҽ ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewPoM



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Audiobook Review**

Oh my heart, I loved all the emotions that were in this story! “Pieces of Me” is an emotional, heartfelt and healing best friend’s romance that was a beautiful addition to the series.

Gabriel Wilder is a rock star and has been in love with his best friend’s sister, Briar Ashford. He tried his hardest to stay away but one night, he couldn’t. And her brother was not happy and before they could work through it, a tour bus accident took his life. Gabriel and Briar are both devastated and fast forward several months later, Briar is at the Wilder Ranch, to tell Gabriel that she’s pregnant.

This story had so many emotions and I loved it so much. The grief of losing a friend and brother were handled in different ways that are so relatable. Gabriel had felt so much guilt for breaking the “bro code” and had to come to terms with it. His love for Briar was pure and he truly put her first and their daughter first. Briar was incredibly strong and made an amazing mother. I could feel the connection they had and how much stronger it became as they became parents. They had a tricky road to navigate but did it beautifully. In true Wilder fashion, they rallied around them and helped them through the tough times. Carrie Ann Ryan wrote a beautiful story of forgiveness and healing. The ending was so romantic and I loved their story so much.

Samantha Cook and Aiden Snow were fabulous as Briar and Gabriel. Samantha’s narration was caring and passionate. Aiden blew me away with his vulnerable and protective narration as Gabriel. These two were so great together and complemented each other perfectly.

[Thindbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story follows a rock star who sleeps with his best friend’s sister. Their world crashes and she ends up pregant. I haven’t read the other books in the series but after reading this one, I really want to start from the beginning. I really love the Wilder brothers and want to know more about them now. I liked the storyline and the pacing was very fast. I do wish there were more conficts or scenes that lasted longer to make more of a connection with the characters. I really enjoyed the setting of the storyline and getting dual povs.

Gabriel is the MMC of the story and after Mal’s death, he loses himself. Compared to other rock star boys, he’s not a jerk at all and very mature. I loved how he was ready to become a dad and would do anything for his girls. Then we have Briar who is such a strong person from losing someone to having a unplanned pregancy. I loved seeing her journey and finding love. There are many side characters and it was a bit hard to pinpoint who was who in the book. I wish there was more explantations of each sibling or a character chart. However, I know if I read the entire series, I would love how involved they are as a side character. The romance is accidental pregnancy, best friend’s sister and forced proximity. I really liked the chemistry between the couple and their epilogue was so cute.

The ending was well done and overall I really enjoyed the book. We also get a sneak peek of the next book which I am super excited for. Carrie broke poor Brooks’ heart but I am ready for him to heal. I am excited to see where this series goes next.

*this book was sent to me by the author to give an honest review in return*

[Mindy Diegel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally, Gabriel and Briar’s story and it sure was a doozy. We’ve seen Gabriel throughout the series as this rockstar, but he seems haunted like there’s some thing in his life that’s missing and this is a beautiful story with lots of tragedy woven through it. It begins with tragedy. They both are bound by tragedy. Briar is his best friend sister. So this story is one where we see them try to heal from this enormous tragedy, both physically mentally and emotionally together and apart it is an emotional roller coaster. Gabriel is the headliner of a band rockstar God, but something was missing in his life, and then after the accident, his life officially fell apart. And Briar has always been this touchstone of his life since they were teenagers and has gotten under his skin, they’ve had such a good friendship. They’ve always had this will they won’t they energy that they’ve denied for years because of her brother a.k.a. his best friend but after one night together things changed. Watching them try to really integrate into each other’s lives and deal with the trauma and heartbreak is so beautiful in its own way. They’re both stubborn and they’re both just wandering blindly through this part of their lives because of the trauma. It just goes to show you that there’s no right or wrong way for a person to go through trauma. I am so glad that they finally found a way to be together because they were meant to be together. I’m glad they got there happily ever after.

[SweetReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an emotional ride. These two hook up in secret. A best friend’s sister that gets outed unexpectedly on a tour bus that crashes hours later. Angry words that can’t be taken back or corrected as Gabriel’s best friend and his crushes brother dies. Gabriel is struggling with his grief and his sense of betrayal to his best friend, he is hiding away, angry and closing himself off from everyone. He no longer knows how to be a rock star without his friend by his side. He’s not talking to his band mates, not answering his phone or mail or email and see’s Mal’s ghost watching on in disappointment. But it’s pretty hard staying hidden away when his crush Briar, shows up very pregnant with your child. One night of giving in to their feelings resulting in a new life. Navigating through the remaining pregnancy, getting the band back together and finding a replacement for his best friend, learning to be a father is more than Gabriel had bargained on. Briar is trying to find her footing, learning to be a mom, unsure of her status in Gabriels life and adjusting to the reality of being a rock stars baby mommy puts a lot of pressure on them.

Carrie Ann Ryan has a way of bringing all of these circumstances to life and you feel every emotion, shame, grief, love, anger and hope. Be prepared to laugh and cry. This is a lovely story of growth and rebirth. The Wilder family are all amazing but his one will definitely stir up your feels. Can’t wait for the next installment

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pieces of Me is an emotional rollercoaster that grips you from the first page and doesn’t let go. As the ninth book in the Wilder Brothers series, it works well as a standalone, making it perfect for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Gabriel Wilder and Briar Ashford’s story is packed with angst, heartbreak, and healing. What starts as a best friend’s sister romance quickly turns into an emotional journey of loss, guilt, and redemption. After tragedy strikes, Gabriel drowns himself in self-blame and alcohol, pushing everyone away—including Briar. But when she reenters his life months later, it forces him to confront his past and fight for a future he never thought he deserved.

The chemistry between Gabriel and Briar is undeniable, but what makes this story truly compelling is their growth. Watching Gabriel come to terms with his guilt and Briar standing strong through it all made for a deeply moving read. Their road to love wasn’t easy, but it was worth every moment.

Carrie Ann Ryan masterfully weaves together love, loss, and second chances in Pieces of Me. It’s a raw, beautifully written story filled with grief, hope, and healing. If you love emotional, character-driven romances, this one is a must-read.

#PiecesOfMe #CarrieAnnRyan #WilderBrothers #BestFriendsSister #EmotionalRomance #MustRead #SecondChances #BookLovers #SlowBurn #HeartfeltRomance #HealingAndLove #Tearjerker #RomanceReaders

[Lexee Toste · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention the entire time. This one is definitely on the emotional side with Briar and Gabriel having to deal with the aftermath of the bus accident and the people that were lost, including Briar's brother and Gabriel's best friend. Gabriel has been in love with Briar but has never let himself go there or really acknowledge it due to the fact that was his best friend's sister. Until one night, they end up crossing the line and then a few weeks later, her brother ends up finding out after overhearing a bit of conversation between Briar and Gabriel and things do not go well and he gets on a different bus. They never get the chance to fix it and talk it out. Gabriel feels all kinds of guilt over the death of his best friend and has been numb and trying to numb himself since the accident and is hiding out at the Wilder retreat and working with family since they won't let him completely disappear. Briar then shows up and she has a major surprise for Gabriel. It brings him back a little bit though he still has a lot of work to do to deal with what is going on with him and to work through with Briar as well. I enjoyed watching these two navigate what they had going on and finding a way to work through everything and move forward. The story was really well written and I thought handled things well. The characters were very engaging and I really loved it.
The narrators did a really great job with the characters and bringing them and the story to life, adding that extra depth to it.

[Michelle the Romance Witch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pieces of Me is truly a story of two people that are meant to be together but have fought is so long they aren’t sure how to live any other way and then when real catastrophe tears their lives apart they have to find a way to rebuild, this time together for the good of their future. Briar is a bright light that is determined to show the man she loves that while she doesn’t need anything from him, she won’t give up on him and let him drown in his own pain, even if he wants the world to leave him alone. Gabriel has truly allowed the trauma to bury him and he doesn’t care, until he is forced to come to terms with his past and future all at once and he will never again let Briar down, even if it forced him to deal with the pain and heal from the breaks. Together Briar and Gabriel will change their future and let their past become softer and less painful, though they will never forget those they’ve lost and that meant the most to them, showing that love truly can conquer all, even if the way to conquer is just to show us that love never dies. Their passion when they finally allow themselves to feel it through the pain is hot enough to burn through the pain and to continue to burn all through their live together. I am looking forward to seeing more of them together and the healing I know they will continue to strive for, in the finale of the Wilder series (Endlessly Yours) as well as in the new series all about Briar’s many siblings (Ashford Creek). Carrie Ann Ryan is one of those authors that tears out your heart just to make it grow three sizes bigger before she forces it back into your chest, so be prepared for the pain as you lose yourself to Pieces of Me.


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[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know how Carrie Ann Ryan does it, but Pieces of Me has left me absolutely shattered—in the best, most heart-wrenching way possible. This book is not just a love story; it’s an emotional wrecking ball that grips your soul from the very first page. From the gut-wrenching start that had me sobbing into my pillow to the deeply moving journey of love, loss, and redemption, this is a story that will stay with you long after the final page.

Gabriel Wilder is a rock god, larger than life on stage, but behind the fame, he’s been harboring feelings for Briar-his best friend’s sister—for years. One stolen night changes everything, igniting a passion that’s been simmering beneath the surface for far too long. But just as quickly as they come together, tragedy strikes, ripping them apart. The pain is raw, the emotions razor-sharp, and the devastation utterly soul-crushing.

Now, eight months later, Briar is back, carrying a secret that will change both of their lives forever. But is Gabriel ready to face the past, embrace the future, and step back into the spotlight—not just as a rockstar, but as a man willing to fight for love?

Carrie Ann Ryan has a rare talent—she gives us all the swoon, all the heat, and all the breathtaking romance, but she never holds back the pain. Even when you’re screaming at the pages, wanting to throw the book across the room, you know you’re in for a journey that will break you apart before slowly piecing you back together.

And just when you think the happy ending is finally within reach, Ms Ryan throws in another emotional twist—one last gut punch to remind you why she’s a master of her craft. But oh, what a beautiful, soul-stirring ending it is. As I close this book, my heart is full, my eyes are misty, and I’m left in awe once again. Gabriel and Briar story is unforgettable, and this book cements Carrie Ann Ryan as an author ahead of her time.

[Kara Quade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabriel Wilder is the front man with an angel's voice for the rock band, Wilder. Gabriel's best friend, Mal Ashford, is the drummer for Wilder. Briar has made a name for herself in the music industry by writing award winning songs for others to perform. Briar and Gabriel have circled around each other while fighting their attraction to each other until they give in one night. How will Mal react when he learns Gabriel broke his trust and slept with Briar? How will Briar and Gabriel react when tragedy strikes? How does Gabriel react when he sees Briar for the first time in months since the tragic accident? Can Briar and Gabriel be more to each other than just co-parents? Can Gabriel work through his guilt regarding his betrayal of friendship to Mal? I absolutely loved Pieces of Me by Carrie Ann Ryan! Briar and Gabriel are a great couple who have amazing chemistry but have a serious issue when it comes to communication about their feelings for each other. I love how the Wilder women pull Briar into the family fold. Pieces of Me will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride. I would highly recommend getting Pieces of Me and the other books in the Wilder Brothers series by Carrie Ann Ryan. I received an ARC of the book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart-wrenching, awe-inspiring, brilliantly written, and one you will remember for a long time. Ms.Ryan always has a way of grabbing a hold of my heart with her characters and storylines. Pieces of Me had me teary-eyed and my emotions all over the place right from the start.
We are told the story of Gabriel and Briar, two souls who lost so much yet at the same time had so much to live for. From the loss of a loved one and the heartbreak to the joy of life and love, the two of them were on a journey of redemption and healing. Thinking that your world has ended to come face to face with the beginning of a new chapter that you never saw coming.
Gabriel was a rock star that everyone loved and wanted a piece of. Briar was a talented songwriter and the sister of Gabriel's best friend. She was off limits but that didn't stop the two of them. Under all the banter that went between the two of them that looked like they did not like each other, the truth was there were feelings below the surface that finally came out. The chemistry that they shared was fantastic. These two souls were made for one another.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐞 is the 9th book in the Wilder Brothers series by Carrie Ann Ryan, featuring Gabriel and Briar’s emotional story that you don’t want to miss. When the famous frontman of Wilder and his best friend’s songwriting sister finally gave into their connection for a night of passion, they never dreamed that their lives were about to change in the most heart-wrenching and profound ways! Grab your tissues, book friends, because this one had me crying more than once!! The raw and gritty emotions were written so well, and these wonderful characters have truly stolen pieces of my heart! This book had it all… the family that had to come together in tough times, angst, longing, heat, forbidden love, loss, hope, and mind-blowing twists! I always love Carrie Ann Ryan’s books, buy I think this one is my favorite so far of those that I’ve read!! Yes, it’s an emotional roller coaster, but it is worth every loop!! With all the feels and heat it delivered, I wish I could give it all the stars! I’m beyond excited for Brooks and Rory’s story!

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
😭😭😭

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A highly emotional, heart-wrenching delight! When we got to the end of the original cast that made up the Wilder Brothers, I thought it couldn't get any better ... but the cousins that are joining the family just keep bringing more depth to the series and I'm loving every second of it. Gabriel's story is powerful and carries a heavy weight into the family circle that brings a turmoil we haven't dealt with on scene before. Seeing the transformation in him when he reconnects with Briar and the circumstances that life dealt them brings for a really poignant and heartfelt story. The characters and their relationship setup is quick to catch the reader's attention, the pain and drama that follows is heartbreaking, but the healing and making their way through the fog is really heartwarming. I loved every minute of their story and can't wait to see the family again.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who enjoys a wounded heart that rallies through life's downtrodden times to heal and prosper when true love steps into it's path. Great characters and a strong family support system along the way.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook review:

Pieces of Me by Carrie Ann Ryan is the next book in The Wilder Brothers series and I loved it. This can be read as a standalone, however, I have loved every single book in the series and highly recommend them. Narrated by Aiden Snow and Samantha Cook, they truly brought Gabriel and Briar to life for me. This was a brother’s best friends, rockstar romance and I devoured it. The chemistry and connection between Gabriel and Briar was undeniable and steamy.

This story broke my heart. It was full of angst and emotional. Gabriel and Briar never crossed the line, until one-night changes everything. It was supposed to be only the one night, then everything blows up and tragedy strikes. Now they need to maneuver a future neither saw coming. Gabriel is a beloved rock god who is strong and determined and charmed by his friends little sister. Briar likes the quiet life. She writes songs for a living and has loved Gabriel for a long time. She is caring and likable. I loved the Wilders coming together for Gabriel and Briar and though I teared up reading this story, I was left feeling happy and content.

Happy listening!

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Briar has been fighting the feelings she has for Gabriel, her brother’s best friend and fellow bandmate, for a while until they finally give in to the chemistry between them. The aftereffects of that choice have left them both devastated and unable to seek solace in each other and that is only compounded when she has news that she knows he won’t be prepared for.

Gabriel feels guilty for what happened with Briar, and he has been unable to make peace with the situation. Instead, he has closed himself off from everyone he cares about and returned to be with family. He had no plans of changing the way he was living his life until Briar tracks him down and gives him news that will force him to re-evaluate his choices.

The emotion in this story as heart wrenching as you can feel the guilt and pain that they continued to deal with. This is a story of a love that was always meant to be but first there is a lot of healing to be done. Aiden Snow and Samantha Cook managed to portray all the emotions that the characters are feelings as they deal with the challenges from the past and in the present.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Carrie Ann Ryan has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and Pieces of Me reminded me why. Gabriel and Briar’s story had me hooked from the very beginning. The opening broke my heart, but I loved watching them heal and find their way back to each other.

I could tell right away just how much Gabriel loved Briar, and I honestly think he may have fallen first. Their chemistry, their struggles, and their growth made this such a rewarding read. There were definitely a few moments where I wanted to yell at the characters, but those ups and downs made the journey feel even more real. At the same time, this book gave me so many smiles, and the ending left me absolutely happy and satisfied.

With dual POV, the best friend’s sister trope, accidental pregnancy, and a rockstar romance twist, this book checked so many of my favorite boxes. Add in the layers of shared trauma, forgiveness, and love, and you’ve got a story that’s both emotional and swoony.

If you love romances that break your heart a little before putting it back together, Gabriel and Briar’s story is one you don’t want to miss.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice Level: Chapters 14, 16, 20 🔥