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Pieces of Us

Some people rebuild their lives. Others are left picking up the pieces.

Katie Clark escaped to the Scottish Highlands to start over. No past. No hidden threats. No one left who could hurt her again. She wants quiet days, a rented cottage, a collection of animals, and the chance to finally breathe.

Then she meets Major Lance McDonald, a younger soldier trying to piece his own life back together after everything he has lost.

What begins as friendship grows into something neither of them expected. Something steady. Something hopeful. And for the first time in years, Katie lets herself believe in more, even though the age gap between them makes her doubt what they could be.

But the past she has been running from finally finds her. One violent night shatters everything and forces her to walk away from the only man who ever made her feel safe.

Months later, their worlds collide again. This time a child is caught in the middle, and the choices they make cannot be undone.

Old wounds reopen. Old feelings return.
And the second chance they never thought they would get demands the biggest risk of all.

Because some love stories are not built from scratch.
They are made from the pieces left behind

Author Note: This book is full rewrite and reedit of the previously published Surviving Heartbreak.

312 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 5, 2026

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About the author

V.R. Tennent

21 books363 followers
VR Tennent emigrated from Scotland to Spain in 2020. She lives in the Spanish campo with her husband, young daughter, and ever-growing animal family.
In January 2022, she decided to put pen to paper and write a book after joining the writer’s group of her favourite author. Five months later she was offered a publishing contract on that very book.
She writes contemporary fiction filled with love, heartbreak, and spice.

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5 stars
33 (43%)
4 stars
33 (43%)
3 stars
6 (7%)
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3 (3%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Tasha_loves_to_read .
822 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 21, 2026
And just like that, another book in this series is finished. This rewrite is literally perfect. I'd forgotten how much Katie & Lance gave me all the feels. They are so good together. I love their story and how they came to be. And as always a few little twists chucked in for good measure! Another great book by @vrtennentauthor
Profile Image for The Dragon Den Book Blog.
3,044 reviews68 followers
March 5, 2026
ARC Review of Pieces of Us by V.R. Tennent
* * * * *
When two souls facing heart break, fear, pain and loss keep coming back together against the opinions and actions of others. A reverse age gap romance with a romance author and a military single father.

Katie is on the run from her past. One that was filled with terror and violence. House sitting in Scotland was perfect, and it got even better when she met Lance.
Handsome. Mature. Fun. Younger.
He made her laugh and smile and fell sexy.
When there time starts to end, and life starts happening, it hurts that they need to go their separate ways and face the world outside of their relationship.
Only then do they face more tragedy and struggle, and start to feel that pull again.

This read is just filled with massive sifts for our characters.
I loved the relationship between Katie and Lance, it was like a safe haven in all the chaos. With what Lance has faced in his personal life and career, taking on a new task after a huge loss, the man is a powerhouse and needs a massive hug. His daughter Hannah is facing a lot also, dealing with massive shifts in her parents' marriage and other life althering moments. Katie is a woman who needs a break from all the other a-hole men that seem to be attracted to her. She deserves a happy ending, much like the rest of our beloved characters.
Profile Image for Nicole.
200 reviews5 followers
March 11, 2026
Katie has lived in survivor mode for a long time, she’s gone through a lot in her life. Almost fifty, but trying to start again, she takes a job as a house sitter in the Scottish Highlands.
There she becomes acquainted with Lance, he is a young soldier trying to get his life back together after going through some tough situations.
Starting as friends, their relationship turns into something more special. She thinks it’s temporary, but he sees a future.
The past comes in to disturb what they’ve formed, and Katie is caught up in old patterns she can’t seem to escape.

Katie and Lance story is heartbreaking at times, but it’s the way he doesn’t let go and always sees her as she is, that makes this book so moving. I will say it’s frustrating at times, because we as humans tend to be self deprecating and I believe this is what keeps them apart. In the end it’s a well thought story, very realistic and I’m sure a lot of people are going to relate to it.
Profile Image for Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer).
1,026 reviews88 followers
March 2, 2026
Pieces of Us is book 3 in Fractured Hearts series by V.R. Tennent.
This Reverse Age-Gap, Single Father, Contemporary Romance had us following the story of Katie Clark friend of Bex and Amy Corrigan from book one and two in the series. And the MMC Major Lance McDonald through their dual POVs.

After seeing appearances from Katie throughout the series and the peeks we were given in regards to her along the way, it definitely had me curious for her story.

Author V.R. Tennent did good job in writing the story of Katie and Lance.
Two complete opposites and not just in age but the life they lived.
Yet it made for a heartfelt and warming narrative that paved for quite the journey for the two.
Yes, it had the usual drama with some secrecy from what was alluded to, that led to some twists.
But there was much more to navigate through, particularly in the individual journeys of Katie and Lance considering all that we see and learn about them through their POV chapters that included their inner monologue, opening them up to us on a deeper level.
It’s ultimately what resulted in the storyline being a whirlwind emotionally charged rollercoaster.
Then again with all the ups, downs, highs and lows, going back and forth and pushing and pulling Katie and Lance endured and suffered through their journey’s venture, it was to be expected.
Particularly in Katie’s case, whose personal issues had her flipping constantly, especially when it came to her feelings in regards to Lance and their relationship.

My only issue came from the timeline having me a little lost, since without the few times of mentioning holidays and a few chapters where the date and year were stated.
It ultimately made it hard to know at what pace the timeline of the story was moving.

In the end, Pieces of Us ended up being quite the emotional rollercoaster, with some twists and turns that kept you holding on to see just where Katie and Lance’s journey would eventually take them.
Ultimately making for a pleasant and enjoyable read altogether.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca Hill.
946 reviews11 followers
March 6, 2026
Pieces Of Us is the third book in Tennent's Fractured Hearts series. This age gap, second chance romance features Katie Clark (49) and Major Lance McDonald (32).

After divorcing her controlling, narcissistic husband (Brad) who cheated on her repeatedly, Katie, an erotic novelist and cancer survivor, moves to Aviemore, Scotland. She agrees to take care of Eden House's animal menagerie while the owners are away. It is there she meets Major Lance McDonald.

After returning from 8 months of service, he catches his best friend Hamish in bed with his wife Ainsley. He ends up moving into a house with his army buddy, David Dog Jameson. His priority is now his 12-year old daughter Hannah as her world has been flipped upside down.

While walking his neighbour's dog, Lance sees Katie. She takes a tumble and ends up in the stream. Being the proper, upstanding man he is, he quickly comes to her aid. He recognizes that there is an age difference however he is not concerned with that. Conversation flows easily between the two and he is deeply attracted to her. Likewise she is attracted to him. What starts as a friendship quickly evolves into something more.

Katie recognizes that while they are physically compatible, the age difference can only mean one thing - their relationship has a deadline. While she is reluctant to let him go she is already attuned to the looks and comments they get when going out together. When her ex-husband shows up at her little cottage in the middle of the night, pushing her into an emotional spiral, she knows the time to let Lance go has come and makes the incredibly difficult decision to part ways. In doing so, she breaks Lance's heart.

As time goes by, Katie find success in her writing career and ends up coming back to Scotland on a book tour. She is shocked to find Lance there but he is not alone; there is a baby with him. She knew he would move on without her, and she has found someone suitable, but it still hurts.

These two characters, while divided in years, are so much alike. Their painful histories bring them together offering each what the other needs. I found it easy to connect with the characters as they come across as being relatable and engaging. I could picture myself as Katie, an older woman finding love in someone socially perceived as unsuitable. I could understand her struggles to decide between what her heart wanted and societal pressures. After surviving not only her emotionally abusive ex AND cancer, it was heartbreaking to see her continue to struggle.

I loved that Lance didn't lose his heart after having suffered a tremendous betrayal not only by his wife but his best friend after serving his country. It was beautiful to see him find love again and then painful to see it ripped away from him once more. He was a man with such a big, loving heart and I wanted him to find happiness however possible.

As a fan of Tennent's writing, it was no surprise that I enjoyed this emotional read. I believe there is one more book planned in this series of interconnected, standalone books. I look forward to reading it as soon as it is available.
Profile Image for Kim Janey.
262 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 4, 2026
Broken from her past, Katie has had her choices taken away from her for a long time. So when she takes a leap of faith and leaves, she meets Lance, a Major fresh out of the army with a complicated past and baggage of his own. Their connection feels both unexpected and inevitable but with a big age gap, their histories, and the timing never quite working in their favour, they both struggle to find a life where being together actually feels possible.



“I want to live in a world of vivid color alongside the woman I love.”

Whew, this was a deep one. My babies Lance and Katie both come from places of inner pain and betrayal and you can really feel how much those past experiences shaped them. What I loved most about their relationship was that it wasn’t just passion or attraction holding them together, it was genuine love, respect and laughter. Out of the three books in this series, this one was definitely my favourite because it was deep and heavy at times, but in a way that felt meaningful and emotional.

Katie was my WARRIOR QUEEN. Like seriously, she was so relatable, the way that she put herself out there and watching her slowly reclaim her voice to fight for the life she wanted was so powerful. I also loved how pure her love for Lance and his family was. She didn’t just love him, she wholeheartedly embraced the people in his life too. My girl deserves the best life!

“Anywhere you are is my home.”

Lance was such a breath of fresh air as an MC. One thing I really appreciate about VR Tennent is how she writes men who actually feel real. They’re not over-the-top billionaires or mafia bosses with unlimited swagger (while I do love those, yes I do!), they’re just like…real guys. Likable, flawed, and real. Poor Lance went through a lot, especially during and after his time serving but he never let those things define him. Oh and I also loved how the hurdle he faced from his service was handled with sensitivity, huge shoutout to Katie too for never once making him feel less because of it.

Honestly, I really really really liked this one. It perfectly captured that “right person, wrong time” feeling, which honestly feels like the core theme of this entire series. And the ending genuinely had me going aww cause it was just so darn sweet. Their story was emotional, messy, and raw but never over the top. VR Tennent really hit it home with this one!
240 reviews8 followers
March 10, 2026
Katie and Lance meet when she takes a job house sitting for a couple, in a small village. Lance just got back from serving overseas. When he gets home, he doesn’t expect the homecoming he gets from his wife. By walking in on her and his childhood friend. Not knowing what to do. His military friend, Dog. Rents a house for them and Lance’s daughter. When he comes across Katie tripping and falling into the river. He helps her out and they start to spend time with each other. Enjoying each other’s company in and out of the bedroom. Even though she is 17 years older than him.
Then a small misunderstanding occurs and with Katies insecurity of their future. They go their separate ways. But they both continuously think about each other. When they meet again over a year later. The spark is still there! But Katie still wishing fate made them closer in age and doesn’t think they can overcome the age problem. Decides to move to America. Will fate step in and have their paths cross again?
I love this book! VR Tennent has once again entranced me in her story. I literally could not put this down! Katie is a strong FMC. She manages to get herself out of the horrible situations, that she ends up in. Even if she doesn’t believe she is capable of leaving and starting over. She does! She is stronger than she thinks! Lance is a great MC. He treats Katie like a queen. She has never had any man treat her as if she actually matters. He himself has been in horrible life situations and just keeps trying to better himself and create the family he has always wanted! Never taking his life’s frustrations out on those around him. This has a little of everything. Their story is very emotional. I literally could feel what they are feeling! You won’t be disappointed! VR’s writing just keeps getting better and better! I can’t wait to see what is next!
Profile Image for SherrecePQReads_Alot Tanner.
452 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 25, 2026
This series may be heartbreaking but I absolutely cannot get enough of all of these books. They have each been heartbreaking, but this one felt alot more personal but I don't avoid triggers as I find healing within the words. **I do strongly suggest reading all the triggers and if it is not for you, then don't read. You have to protect your heart.**

This is a reverse age gap, and if you have read the previous two books you will have meet Katie, who i is a cancer thriver, and best friends of Bex and her sister Amy. Katie is trying her hand at writing erotic fiction, and also trying to survive walking away from her abusive ex husband. Taking her to Aviemore in Scotland, she literally falls for Major Lance. Lance has returned from a deployment to find his wife is having an affair with her boss. He moves in with is army brother, Dog.

The connection between Katie and Lance is spontaneous, and Lance is everything Katie deserves, and vice versa, but she is not comfortable with the age gap. And, she doesn't believe she deserves him, as she has always been treated as less than . This book has some truly outstanding absolute heartbreaking moments, not just for Katie, but for Lance. There is further trauma for them both, and heart stopping events brings things full circle. I have left Victoria voice notes AGAIN, as this book is everything. I am beyond excited for Book 4, this too I have told Victoria, but for now, READ THESE BOOKS. Romance is not always hearts, fluffy bunnies and roses, and life sometimes needs to throw alot of shit your way until you truly see and seek out what you truly deserve.
Profile Image for Holli Mahar.
134 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2026
This book definitely takes you on quite an emotional roller-coaster. However, it is well worth the journey it will take you on!

- Reverse Age Gap
- Love Later in Life
- FMC over 40
- Military Hero
- Golden Retriever Vibes

Some people rebuild their lives. Others are left picking up the pieces.

Katie Clark escaped to the Scottish Highlands to start over. No past. No hidden threats. No one left who could hurt her again. She wants quiet days, a rented cottage, a collection of animals, and the chance to finally breathe.
Then she meets Major Lance McDonald, a younger soldier trying to piece his own life back together after everything he has lost.

What begins as friendship grows into something neither of them expected. Something steady. Something hopeful. And for the first time in years, Katie lets herself believe in more, even though the age gap between them makes her doubt what they could be.
But the past she has been running from finally finds her. One violent night shatters everything and forces her to walk away from the only man who ever made her feel safe.
Months later, their worlds collide again. This time a child is caught in the middle, and the choices they make cannot be undone.
Old wounds reopen. Old feelings return.
And the second chance they never thought they would get demands the biggest risk of all.
Because some love stories are not built from scratch.
They are made from the pieces left behind
Profile Image for Brittany Hayley Fraser.
171 reviews3 followers
March 3, 2026
Just finished book 3 of the Fractured Hearts series Pieces of Us by VR Tennent. It follows a romance author Katie who escaped to the Scottish Highlands to escape her abusive ex husband. She takes on a job as a pet sitter for a couple who leave for a few months. While she is walking 2 dogs she falls into a creek and meets the very hot and 17 years her junior Lance. Lance is fresh of a divorce from a woman who had an affair with his best friend while Lance was out on deployment. Lance and Katie hit it off as friends but suddenly developed a relationship that was kinda kept hidden away from Lances daughter. There’s heartbreaking moments there’s happy moments and alittle of everything in between. Will the age difference become a problem for the couple? Or will it end in heartbreak? I did like this book the spice was good. I love how Lance never made Katie feel like her age was a problem to him. It flows good from start to finish. I do wish there was more details on a couple parts but it works.
Profile Image for Lakshmi Praveen.
594 reviews27 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 21, 2026
This book was absolutely wonderful achingly angsty in the best possible way. It was exactly what I needed for the mood I was in when I picked it up. From the very beginning, I was completely pulled into Lance and Katie’s story. They’re like two puzzle pieces that were always meant to fit together perfectly aligned, yet shaped by their own jagged edges.
Of course, their journey is anything but easy. This isn’t a bed-of-roses romance; it’s filled with emotional highs and heartbreaking lows. The twists and turns kept me on edge the entire time, making it impossible to put down. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story took another unexpected turn. I was pulled in from the first page. It was amazing.

Pieces of us is not for the faint hearted but a wonderful angsty read with a HEA.
Profile Image for Inge Mosch.
621 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 2, 2026
This book gave me all the feelings. It’s rare for a story to make me this emotionally invested, but this one truly did. At times, I was genuinely frustrated and wanted to shout at Katie for the choices she made. Her decisions weren’t always easy to understand. My heart absolutely broke for Lance. Everything he had to endure was heartbreaking, and I felt so deeply for him. The story was full of unexpected twists and turns that kept me hooked from beginning to end. There were so many emotional highs and lows, and that journey made the HEA even more satisfying and well-earned. This was an emotional, gripping read, and I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Profile Image for Winnie.
133 reviews
March 5, 2026
I received and ARC of copy of this book. This book took my heart and put it through a spin cycle. It was amazing. It starts with Katie needing a break and a new start away from her abusive ex. She meets LAnce and their friendship starts, he is younger than her so whenever they are together they get judgemental looks from people and slowly it starts being more than friendship. I was getting hopeful that they will have their happy ever after the first time around but as in true romance fashion there has to be some drama.... months down the line they get a second chance and it blooms gloriously and stronger than ever. They get their happy ever after and then some. I loved this book coudn't put it down it was amazing
2,083 reviews27 followers
March 6, 2026
So so good! What an emotional ride! Loved it! I have read the other novels in this series and loved them. This novel did not disappoint. I was excited to jump back into this series, and this novel did not let me down. From the first chapter this novel reached across the pages and grabbed my heart and held on tight. I loved Katie & Lance's story. My heart hurt for both of them because of all they had been thru in their pasts. Their chemistry was so good! Once I started reading I could not put this novel down. I loved watching both of their walls and defenses come down and watch them fall in love. So so good! Such a emotional ride, I didn't want this novel to end. I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next. Loved it
Profile Image for Michele.
1,010 reviews14 followers
March 5, 2026
A reverse age story about Lance and Katie and is the 3rd book in the Fractured Hearts Series.

I got pulled in by the gut punch in the first chapter. Lance comes home from deployment to the worst-case scenario of his wife and oldest friend. And to top it off, his wife is so unbothered about being caught. She just takes her AP's hand and leaves behind Lance and their daughter. Who does that?!?!

Then Lance meets Katie - not the best of meet cutes, but you have to start out somehow. They start out as friends and their relationship is anything but easy. But the relationships that last are able to weather all the obstacles.

❤️Single Dad
💕Reverse Age Gap
🔥True Lasting Love
125 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 25, 2026
Pieces Of Us is the third book of the fractured hearts series by VR Tennent. After careful deliberation with my self I have come to the conclusion that this is my new favorite book.

If you love reading about age gap romance with a military hero then this is the book for you.

Katie and Lance were literally made for each other this book gave me all the feels. This book gives you all the angst and emotional highs. Pieces of Us will have you on edge all through out the book but the ending is perfect

Pieces Of Us by VR Tennent is definitely ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for The Book Haven.
36 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. The characters felt real and easy to connect with, and I got so invested in their journeys. The plot moved at such a great pace that I didn’t want to put it down. It never felt slow or rushed—just perfectly balanced. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a really good read.


✨️ I received an ARC copy, and I'm giving my honest opinion in this review. ✨️
Profile Image for AMY FERNANDEZ.
41 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 25, 2026
I loved the continuation of these characters. Katie goes to Scotland to reset and ponder life. In walks Lance. Lance comes with his own past. To say a few roadblocks are in the way? Let’s say boulder after boulder. Their story is sweet and real and relatable. I won’t give spoilers but if you’ve loved Love Beyond Repair and Promises Left Behind then Pieces of Us should be your next read.

I received an ARC copy and this is my honest early review.
Profile Image for Rachel Stephens.
2,751 reviews43 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 1, 2026
Lance and Katie
I truly enjoyed Lance and Katie's story. I wont deny that it was quite emotional at times though. Their road to a happy ending wasn't smooth. With twists along the way. It was filled with challenges and heartbreak.

The best part of the story was still the relationship that developed between Lance and Katie. They fit together so well. The angst, the feels, and love. I'm so glad they got their happy ending! They both deserved it!!
4,667 reviews52 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 5, 2026
Lance comes home on military leave to his wife and best friend having an affair. I didn't like they just seem to have this nonchalant IDAF attitude. Lance tries to pick of the pieces of his life by shielding and making sure his daughter Hannah knows how much he loves her. He meets Katie an older woman and they hit it off their relationship has it's challenges. This also touches on the emotions of his daughter dealing with her parents divorce and their new partners.
Profile Image for Surrender2silk.
1,995 reviews13 followers
March 14, 2026
book three in the Fractured Hearts series. she’s trying to survive her ex husband. so she sets out to a new adventure. he walked in on his wife with his best friend. they started to share small moments together. almost like starting all over. then her past come calling and she leaves. breaking his heart along the way. now faith has other plans and they are back this time they know how much it hurt to walk away. this time around they will fight like no other .
Profile Image for Kayla Sargent.
280 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
The story was good & I loved Lance. Katie made me sooo mad. It was hard for me to get past the fact that she saw the red flags & knew it was like living with her ex-husband all over again, but she still chose to do everything she did. It made me so frustrated for Lance. The poor man is put through the ringer the entire book, from the ex-wife to the daughter to Katie.

With that being said, I feel that it is still the best book of the series.
304 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 4, 2026
This was another great read from this author. It was a real rollercoaster of emotions and at times I wanted to shout at Katie she made me so cross.
The writing was amazing as always and I just fell totally in love with Lance what a beautiful man he is.

I was lucky enough to receive an arc copy of the book and have left my honest opinion.
1,760 reviews8 followers
March 5, 2026
Pieces of Us: Fractured Hearts; Book 3 by VR Tennent. Katie and Lance’s story is emotionally charged and slow burn romance that comes with plenty of ups and downs. I thought the author’s writing style was spot on in creating fantastic characters, building a picturesque drama, and hitting the rough spots with finesse. I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to others.
Profile Image for Tisha Embry.
54 reviews1 follower
May 16, 2026
Two souls who were meant to be. Katie and Lance are not your “typical” couple. Katie is 20 years older. But age is just a number, right?
Broken hearts, surprise baby, injuries, and second chances are what’s in store! Definitely a must read!

Thank you for VR Tennent for the opportunity to read this love story!
Profile Image for Trelia Pearce.
147 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
The best book of the series so far. Second chances and starting over is never easy but everyone deserves a second chance. Love can happen when you least expect it, even if you're not looking for it. And maybe there will even be unexpected surprises by your best friend you didn't know you needed at the time but changed everything for you in the end.
Profile Image for Redcurlsangel.
189 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
March 2, 2026
ARC Review, thx V.R. Tennent

This is a second chance story in the Fractured Hearts series. And as the series title suggests, you'll need plenty of tissues while reading. This is definitely not a book to read if you're having a bad day. Nevertheless, the book is highly recommended.
Profile Image for Liana.
538 reviews8 followers
March 7, 2026
Another great read from the series, this book was great the first time around but now it’s even better with the re write. Katie did frustrate me throughout she just needed to accept lance but she had her reasons. Lance I just want to cuddle him.
117 reviews
April 10, 2026
Great Read!

Out of the three books this is my favourite! It has just enough angst to get the tears going, and then the happy jumps back in! I really like the way the three books have been woven together and you just learn more about the characters in each book. Enjoy!!!
Profile Image for Marianne Syme.
210 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 3, 2026
This series was one of my favourites!
Its full of emotions and all the feels!

lance and katie didnt disappoint!

these books are real and raw and make you feel everything the characters are going through!

absolutely loved it and highly recommend x
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews