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Fragments
A poetic love story about identity, healing, and falling in love with the parts of ourselves we were taught to hide.
Lena Hartley was a runway star in her youth. Now, she’s a doctor. Her beautiful mind has always made sense of the world by observing, feeling, and analyzing first, participating second. She never questioned the way she was—until now, at the age of forty-two.
As she sits in a psychiatrist’s office, the past she tried to bury splits open like an overstuffed valise of memories.
First there is Paris. The flashing cameras. The cramped apartment of fashion models. The toxic relationship. Crumbling under pressure, Lena chooses to leave this glamorous life behind and start again—from scratch.
Newly single and working in a bar to fund her studies, Lena is feeling adrift—when a chance follow on MySpace changes everything. Enter Phoenix: a gorgeous, talented artist, who sees the true Lena—but is also haunted by a traumatic past.
Their love story blossoms through poetic text messages and California landscapes into a connection that feels healing, passionate…and most of all, mystically fated.
Years later, when their young daughter, Ruby, is diagnosed with autism, Lena begins to see the world differently. In Ruby’s eyes, she recognizes something familiar, and starts to piece together the fragments of her own identity.
Told in lyrical flashbacks during one extraordinary psychiatric evaluation, Fragments is an emotionally raw story of love that nurtures, not destroys—and the messy, beautiful process of self-discovery.
For anyone who’s ever felt like too much—or not enough.
(Bring tissues.)
Lena Hartley was a runway star in her youth. Now, she’s a doctor. Her beautiful mind has always made sense of the world by observing, feeling, and analyzing first, participating second. She never questioned the way she was—until now, at the age of forty-two.
As she sits in a psychiatrist’s office, the past she tried to bury splits open like an overstuffed valise of memories.
First there is Paris. The flashing cameras. The cramped apartment of fashion models. The toxic relationship. Crumbling under pressure, Lena chooses to leave this glamorous life behind and start again—from scratch.
Newly single and working in a bar to fund her studies, Lena is feeling adrift—when a chance follow on MySpace changes everything. Enter Phoenix: a gorgeous, talented artist, who sees the true Lena—but is also haunted by a traumatic past.
Their love story blossoms through poetic text messages and California landscapes into a connection that feels healing, passionate…and most of all, mystically fated.
Years later, when their young daughter, Ruby, is diagnosed with autism, Lena begins to see the world differently. In Ruby’s eyes, she recognizes something familiar, and starts to piece together the fragments of her own identity.
Told in lyrical flashbacks during one extraordinary psychiatric evaluation, Fragments is an emotionally raw story of love that nurtures, not destroys—and the messy, beautiful process of self-discovery.
For anyone who’s ever felt like too much—or not enough.
(Bring tissues.)
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 20, 2025
3 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
About the author
Ashe Stevens
2 books25 followersMagdalena and Ashe Stevens, known collectively as “The Author Couple”, are carving a unique niche in contemporary literature with their raw, emotionally charged narratives. Their award-winning debut, "Lost in Beirut", draws from Ashe's harrowing experiences during the 2006 Lebanon war, garnering numerous accolades including the Indie Reader, Readers' Favorite, and Chanticleer Book Awards. This compelling narrative has also secured them representation for film adaptations.
Currently, they're crafting a women's fiction novel inspired by Magdalena's journey as a late-diagnosed autistic, blending personal discovery with broader societal insights. This project embodies their commitment to stories that challenge, move, and transform.
Magdalena, a doctor whose late autism diagnosis reshaped her worldview, and Ashe, a CalArts-trained BIPOC artist and writer, bring a unique fusion of perspectives to their work. Their diverse backgrounds fuel narratives that resonate deeply with readers seeking authentic, thought-provoking fiction.
Based in California with their daughter, two cats, and a dog, Magdalena and Ashe continue to weave heartfelt stories from the rich tapestry of their experiences.
Follow the authors' journey on their instagram: @TheAuthorCouple
For more information and press inquiries visit: www.theauthorcouple.com
Represented by: Mizzo@paradigmagency.com
Currently, they're crafting a women's fiction novel inspired by Magdalena's journey as a late-diagnosed autistic, blending personal discovery with broader societal insights. This project embodies their commitment to stories that challenge, move, and transform.
Magdalena, a doctor whose late autism diagnosis reshaped her worldview, and Ashe, a CalArts-trained BIPOC artist and writer, bring a unique fusion of perspectives to their work. Their diverse backgrounds fuel narratives that resonate deeply with readers seeking authentic, thought-provoking fiction.
Based in California with their daughter, two cats, and a dog, Magdalena and Ashe continue to weave heartfelt stories from the rich tapestry of their experiences.
Follow the authors' journey on their instagram: @TheAuthorCouple
For more information and press inquiries visit: www.theauthorcouple.com
Represented by: Mizzo@paradigmagency.com
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
October 16, 2025
Fragments is a moving, heartfelt story about a woman being true to herself to ultimately find herself.
Lena is an on-the-rise model in a toxic relationship. While her life appears glamorous, it isn’t as dazzling it seems. She gives it all up to pursue her dream of being a doctor. Now, a 42 year old wife, mother, and physician, Lena sits in a psychiatrist’s office, reflecting on how she got from then to now.
Fragments is brimming with emotion, you can feel Lena and Phoenix’s highs and lows. I loved that Lena’s biggest cheerleader was her grandfather. The writing is beautiful and I’m grateful to Magdalena and Ashe Stevens for sharing their story — 4.5 stars
Lena is an on-the-rise model in a toxic relationship. While her life appears glamorous, it isn’t as dazzling it seems. She gives it all up to pursue her dream of being a doctor. Now, a 42 year old wife, mother, and physician, Lena sits in a psychiatrist’s office, reflecting on how she got from then to now.
Fragments is brimming with emotion, you can feel Lena and Phoenix’s highs and lows. I loved that Lena’s biggest cheerleader was her grandfather. The writing is beautiful and I’m grateful to Magdalena and Ashe Stevens for sharing their story — 4.5 stars
October 21, 2025
Fragments is a powerful and captivating story written in a beautiful lyrical style. An unputdownable novel that made me cry multiple times, blush and smile big as I inhaled every word.
This is the second book I have read by indie authors, Ashe and Magdalena Stevens. I enjoyed reading about their journey from meeting for the first time, to now as a married couple and parents to their daughter who was diagnosed with autism and what that journey was like.
I highly recommend this love story filled with struggles, hope and healing.
I received an advanced physical copy from indie self published authors, Ashe and Magdalena Stevens. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book. All opinions are my own.
This is the second book I have read by indie authors, Ashe and Magdalena Stevens. I enjoyed reading about their journey from meeting for the first time, to now as a married couple and parents to their daughter who was diagnosed with autism and what that journey was like.
I highly recommend this love story filled with struggles, hope and healing.
I received an advanced physical copy from indie self published authors, Ashe and Magdalena Stevens. Thank you for the opportunity to preview this book. All opinions are my own.
October 31, 2025
FRAGMENTS by Magdalena and Ashe Stevens
A huge thank you to @theauthorcouple for my gifted copy (and the lovely box of goodies). I'll cherish it always. 🫶🏼
While Fragments is a novel, it’s inspired by real events from the authors’ own lives, which makes it all the more powerful. Their story, told mostly through flashbacks during a psychiatry session, follows Lena, a former model turned doctor, as she reflects on her past, and her journey of self-discovery, love, and healing.
This book is a whirlwind of emotion! It's layered, soulful, and deeply affecting. It’s one of those stories that worms its way into your heart and stays there -- I longed to spend more time with its characters. At its core, Fragments is a lyrical, passionate, spiritual love story, but it's also about learning to love yourself through every beautiful, fragmented piece. I loved it so much y'all! Highly recommend you add it to your TBR! 🌼
A huge thank you to @theauthorcouple for my gifted copy (and the lovely box of goodies). I'll cherish it always. 🫶🏼
While Fragments is a novel, it’s inspired by real events from the authors’ own lives, which makes it all the more powerful. Their story, told mostly through flashbacks during a psychiatry session, follows Lena, a former model turned doctor, as she reflects on her past, and her journey of self-discovery, love, and healing.
This book is a whirlwind of emotion! It's layered, soulful, and deeply affecting. It’s one of those stories that worms its way into your heart and stays there -- I longed to spend more time with its characters. At its core, Fragments is a lyrical, passionate, spiritual love story, but it's also about learning to love yourself through every beautiful, fragmented piece. I loved it so much y'all! Highly recommend you add it to your TBR! 🌼
October 22, 2025
“Love makes everything bloom.”
📖 this is a love letter - to oneself, to one’s partner, to one’s best friend, to one’s daughter, to (insert someone you feel soul connected to).
This was beautiful, the journey of self-discovery and growth, and it hurt. The pain of past hurts echoed throughout the pages but where those pains were planted only love and perseverance bloomed.
Our life is a series of lived moments, and as we grow, we take pieces of those moments. In those collected fragments, that is who we are.
There is something special about being seen by someone. There is something raw about seeing yourself.
Lena’s story captivated me and gave me all the feels. I was rooting for her from page one and was kicking my feet when she found Phoenix. Watching their flame go from a spark to a roar was poetic.
I still need tissues when I think about Lena’s grandfather, he was my favorite, his love and support were without limits. 😭🥹🥰
Highly recommend this book 📖
📖 this is a love letter - to oneself, to one’s partner, to one’s best friend, to one’s daughter, to (insert someone you feel soul connected to).
This was beautiful, the journey of self-discovery and growth, and it hurt. The pain of past hurts echoed throughout the pages but where those pains were planted only love and perseverance bloomed.
Our life is a series of lived moments, and as we grow, we take pieces of those moments. In those collected fragments, that is who we are.
There is something special about being seen by someone. There is something raw about seeing yourself.
Lena’s story captivated me and gave me all the feels. I was rooting for her from page one and was kicking my feet when she found Phoenix. Watching their flame go from a spark to a roar was poetic.
I still need tissues when I think about Lena’s grandfather, he was my favorite, his love and support were without limits. 😭🥹🥰
Highly recommend this book 📖
October 4, 2025
4.5 on CAWpile
Thank you Ashe & Magdalena for sharing this beautiful story with the world!
The way this story is told through recounting Lena’s life with a doctor drew me in immediately and I enjoyed how the story unfolded, but then we would get a flash of the present.
At times, I was rooting for Lena to go off and be independent… like I couldn’t imagine driving solo from Chicago to LA, especially having to go through Colorado mountains in the winter!
The found family throughout this book was so beyond heartwarming and really showed how the people you surround yourself with makes the biggest difference in your life.
Lena and Phoenix’s relationship is captivating from the moment they meet online. And I loved the to back to Lost in Beirut, the authors’ first book, which was also an amazing read. The way these two persevered and were able to communicate with each other through every step of the way in their relationship further showed how they’re truly soulmates. And “wanna have a magic day?” Is something I’m going to start doing because!!! How frickin adorable!!!
I could see myself in Lena quite a bit throughout this story and the way everything was written really gave insight into feeling like an outcast or that you’ve never really fit in.
Grandpa was my favorite character and he made me cry a few times and now I want to give my grandpa the biggest hug!!!
Thank you Ashe & Magdalena for sharing this beautiful story with the world!
The way this story is told through recounting Lena’s life with a doctor drew me in immediately and I enjoyed how the story unfolded, but then we would get a flash of the present.
At times, I was rooting for Lena to go off and be independent… like I couldn’t imagine driving solo from Chicago to LA, especially having to go through Colorado mountains in the winter!
The found family throughout this book was so beyond heartwarming and really showed how the people you surround yourself with makes the biggest difference in your life.
Lena and Phoenix’s relationship is captivating from the moment they meet online. And I loved the to back to Lost in Beirut, the authors’ first book, which was also an amazing read. The way these two persevered and were able to communicate with each other through every step of the way in their relationship further showed how they’re truly soulmates. And “wanna have a magic day?” Is something I’m going to start doing because!!! How frickin adorable!!!
I could see myself in Lena quite a bit throughout this story and the way everything was written really gave insight into feeling like an outcast or that you’ve never really fit in.
Grandpa was my favorite character and he made me cry a few times and now I want to give my grandpa the biggest hug!!!
September 14, 2025
I don’t usually pick up romances, but this story completely captivated me from the first page. The writing was so beautiful and poetic that I found myself slowing down just to savor every line, which is saying a lot because I’m usually a speed reader. The characters and emotions pulled me in so deeply that I didn’t want to rush through a single moment. Truly one of the most moving books I’ve read in a long time.
October 22, 2025
The long-awaited second book, Fragments, by “The Author Couple,” Magdalena and Ashe Stevens, has finally arrived—and I was captivated from the very first page.
While their debut, Lost in Beirut, was told through Ashe’s perspective, Fragments unfolds entirely through Magdalena’s—through Lena’s—voice. What emerges is a deeply personal story of emotional struggle and resilience: a woman navigating the crossroads of identity, hardship, love, and the quiet power of self-acceptance.
Without giving too much away, Fragments opens with Dr. Lena Hartley and her husband, Phoenix, in a psychiatrist’s office. Through a series of evocative flashbacks, we piece together the life she’s lived—the rise and fall of a modeling career, an abusive first marriage, the tender wisdom of her grandfather in Poland, the great love that reshaped her life, and the shared journey of discovering the beauty of a neurodivergent mind—both her own and her daughter Ruby’s.
It’s a beautifully written, emotionally charged novel—gripping, reflective, and profoundly human. Fragments reminds us that there is strength in difference and peace in self-understanding.
In the end, its message lingers long after the final page:
Love makes everything bloom—especially the parts of ourselves we once hid from the light.
While their debut, Lost in Beirut, was told through Ashe’s perspective, Fragments unfolds entirely through Magdalena’s—through Lena’s—voice. What emerges is a deeply personal story of emotional struggle and resilience: a woman navigating the crossroads of identity, hardship, love, and the quiet power of self-acceptance.
Without giving too much away, Fragments opens with Dr. Lena Hartley and her husband, Phoenix, in a psychiatrist’s office. Through a series of evocative flashbacks, we piece together the life she’s lived—the rise and fall of a modeling career, an abusive first marriage, the tender wisdom of her grandfather in Poland, the great love that reshaped her life, and the shared journey of discovering the beauty of a neurodivergent mind—both her own and her daughter Ruby’s.
It’s a beautifully written, emotionally charged novel—gripping, reflective, and profoundly human. Fragments reminds us that there is strength in difference and peace in self-understanding.
In the end, its message lingers long after the final page:
Love makes everything bloom—especially the parts of ourselves we once hid from the light.
October 20, 2025
This is such a beautiful book. Full review is here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQByqYYjT...
December 31, 2025
🌼 Fragments is a inspiring story about finding true love and pursuing your dreams, surrounded by the right people who support you and understand you, no matter how different you are … it’s about not letting a toxic relationship destroy your wings because 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺’𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘱 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘭𝘺!
We follow Lena, a former model, who suffered at a young age but pushed through, until she became a doctor, fell in love and became a wonderful mother.
𝘔𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦!
𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘱𝘢 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 🥹 He always made her feel special and loved unconditionally 💕
She met the love of her life in a “magical” way, like a dream come true ☺️ it happened quite fast (online ☺️) but Phoenix and Lena were simply made for each other! He was the missing piece to her puzzle 💕
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵 kept me hooked, and the 𝘱𝘰𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 along with the 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘲𝘶𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴 made the story quite emotional.
𝕎𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕟’𝕤 𝕗𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟
❥A woman finding her strength
❥Healing journey through love
❥Insta love / soulmates (𝘮𝘦𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘱𝘱)
❥Self-discovery
❥Autism rep
❥Family bonds (𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳/𝘥𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 ; 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘱𝘢)
✨Thank you so much to the lovely author couple for sending me an amazing PR Box 🫶🏻 All thoughts in this review are mine.
We follow Lena, a former model, who suffered at a young age but pushed through, until she became a doctor, fell in love and became a wonderful mother.
𝘔𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘐 𝘮𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘢𝘥𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦!
𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘱𝘢 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 🥹 He always made her feel special and loved unconditionally 💕
She met the love of her life in a “magical” way, like a dream come true ☺️ it happened quite fast (online ☺️) but Phoenix and Lena were simply made for each other! He was the missing piece to her puzzle 💕
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵 kept me hooked, and the 𝘱𝘰𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 along with the 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘲𝘶𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘴 made the story quite emotional.
𝕎𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕟’𝕤 𝕗𝕚𝕔𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟
❥A woman finding her strength
❥Healing journey through love
❥Insta love / soulmates (𝘮𝘦𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘱𝘱)
❥Self-discovery
❥Autism rep
❥Family bonds (𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳/𝘥𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘦𝘳 ; 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘱𝘢)
✨Thank you so much to the lovely author couple for sending me an amazing PR Box 🫶🏻 All thoughts in this review are mine.
September 6, 2025
Strongly recommending getting this book!
November 29, 2025
This is a novel crafted out of pure love. Every word intentional, every chapter thoughtfully written, and the overall essence is one of lyrical prose and profound emotion.
While I may seem biased because I absolutely adore these two in real life, I can promise you that this review is truly how I view this book. And friends, it’s a must read. It follows Lena as she navigates various stages of her life-from her early career as a model, to pursuing her dream as a doctor, we journey alongside her as she meets the love of her life, Phoenix, becomes a mother, advocates for a diagnosis she knows at her core is there, and learns to love and accept herself.
It’s beautifully written with so many memorable passages, that I found myself constantly writing them down. At times the love story seemed almost too perfect and too good to be true, and I had to remind myself it was fiction inspired by real life. But then again, I honestly could also see their relationship being exactly as described on page. And it’s a love story that will stick with you. It’s a story about loving yourself, even the parts you want to hide. It’s a passionate story about yearning for growth, healing from that which haunts us, and embracing our full selves. It’s powerful, relatable, spiritual, and lyrical and I can’t say enough good things about Fragments!
•𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 •
+ themes such as healing, navigating life choices, spirituality, self acceptance, embracing love
+ TW domestic abuse
+ autism representation
+ lyrical and poetic prose
+ fiction inspired by real life
+ the sweetest grandparent rep
+ motherhood and advocacy
+ family struggles
+ as you read listen to: All I Need by Radiohead, Bloodstream by Stateless, Miss You by Trentemøller, La Vie En Rose
+ heartfelt and profound storytelling
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: October 20, 2025
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Magical Realism • Practical Magic Series • Fantasy
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭: Physical 📖 (318 pgs)
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★ 𝟓
𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭: I loved it so much!
Thank you Magdalena & Ashe @author for this gorgeous #gifted finished copy and beautifully curated PR box!
•𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬•
“𝑀𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑖𝑛 𝑓𝑙𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛’𝑡 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑛𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑒. If 𝑤𝑒’𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦, 𝑚𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑜 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑘𝑠 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑎𝑚𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟, 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 ℎ𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚.”
“𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒. 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ 𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠. 𝐸𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑢𝑠, 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑎𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒.”
"𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠."
“𝐸𝑦𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑘𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑖𝑑𝑜𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠-𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑜𝑛𝑒’𝑠 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑙 𝑠𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑠 𝑖𝑛 𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑒. 𝑆𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑥 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠.”
“𝐿𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑠 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑚.”
“𝑃𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑢𝑠 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠, 𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑, 𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑠 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠. 𝐽𝑜𝑦. 𝐺𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑓. 𝐴 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦. 𝐴 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑚. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑒𝑏 𝑜𝑓 ℎ𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑒𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒. 𝑊𝑒 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑟𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑎𝑔𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛𝑟𝑎𝑦𝑠— 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑦 𝑝𝑢𝑟𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑠, 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑓𝑢𝑙.”
“𝐵𝑒𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑦 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑢𝑖𝑛. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒, 𝐼 𝑔𝑢𝑒𝑠𝑠.”
"…𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑛𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑑 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑠𝑚 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑚 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑟, 𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙 𝑜𝑛𝑒."…..”𝐼𝑡’𝑠 𝑎𝑠 𝑖𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑝𝑖𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑦 𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑦 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑒 𝑚𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑦. 𝐴 𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑎𝑖𝑐 𝑜𝑓 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑡𝑜𝑔𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟..𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒.”
“𝐿𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑥𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑒𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒; 𝑖𝑡 𝑒𝑛𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑠 𝑢𝑠, 𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑢𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑏 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑚𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑠.”
“𝐴 𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑦 𝑠𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒.”
“𝐴 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑢𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒, 𝑤𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑡𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑎 𝑡𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑣𝑜𝑖𝑐𝑒𝑠.”
“𝐸𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑓𝑙𝑒𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑦. 𝐺𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑖𝑡 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠.”
“𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔, 𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑑𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑠 𝑠𝑚𝑢𝑑𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑎𝑔𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑦 𝑑𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑚.”
“𝐴𝑏𝑜𝑣𝑒, 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛 𝑑𝑖𝑝𝑠. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑘𝑦 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑠. 𝑂𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒, 𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑘, 𝑝𝑢𝑟𝑝𝑙𝑒. 𝐶𝑙𝑜𝑢𝑑𝑠 𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑢𝑝 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑒𝑛 𝑙𝑎𝑣𝑎. "𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑠 𝐺𝑜𝑑" 𝐼 𝑤ℎ𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑟. "𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑟𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒."
“𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑢𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑒𝑙 𝑒𝑥𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑦. 𝐼 𝑔𝑢𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡’𝑠 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒.”
While I may seem biased because I absolutely adore these two in real life, I can promise you that this review is truly how I view this book. And friends, it’s a must read. It follows Lena as she navigates various stages of her life-from her early career as a model, to pursuing her dream as a doctor, we journey alongside her as she meets the love of her life, Phoenix, becomes a mother, advocates for a diagnosis she knows at her core is there, and learns to love and accept herself.
It’s beautifully written with so many memorable passages, that I found myself constantly writing them down. At times the love story seemed almost too perfect and too good to be true, and I had to remind myself it was fiction inspired by real life. But then again, I honestly could also see their relationship being exactly as described on page. And it’s a love story that will stick with you. It’s a story about loving yourself, even the parts you want to hide. It’s a passionate story about yearning for growth, healing from that which haunts us, and embracing our full selves. It’s powerful, relatable, spiritual, and lyrical and I can’t say enough good things about Fragments!
•𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 •
+ themes such as healing, navigating life choices, spirituality, self acceptance, embracing love
+ TW domestic abuse
+ autism representation
+ lyrical and poetic prose
+ fiction inspired by real life
+ the sweetest grandparent rep
+ motherhood and advocacy
+ family struggles
+ as you read listen to: All I Need by Radiohead, Bloodstream by Stateless, Miss You by Trentemøller, La Vie En Rose
+ heartfelt and profound storytelling
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: October 20, 2025
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: Magical Realism • Practical Magic Series • Fantasy
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭: Physical 📖 (318 pgs)
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ★★★★★ 𝟓
𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭: I loved it so much!
Thank you Magdalena & Ashe @author for this gorgeous #gifted finished copy and beautifully curated PR box!
•𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬•
“𝑀𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑖𝑛 𝑓𝑙𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑟𝑒𝑛’𝑡 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑐 𝑛𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑠𝑒. If 𝑤𝑒’𝑟𝑒 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦, 𝑚𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑡𝑤𝑜 𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑘𝑠 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑎𝑚𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟, 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 ℎ𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚.”
“𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑝𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒. 𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑏𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑟𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ 𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑠. 𝐸𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑢𝑠, 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑎𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒.”
"𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐 ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑡 𝑧𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠."
“𝐸𝑦𝑒𝑠 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑘𝑎𝑙𝑒𝑖𝑑𝑜𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑝𝑒𝑠-𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑜𝑛𝑒’𝑠 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑙 𝑠𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑠 𝑖𝑛 𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑠ℎ𝑎𝑝𝑒. 𝑆𝑜𝑚𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑥 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑠.”
“𝐿𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑠 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑦𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑏𝑙𝑜𝑜𝑚.”
“𝑃𝑒𝑜𝑝𝑙𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝑢𝑠 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑠, 𝑒𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑖𝑟 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑, 𝑐𝑟𝑜𝑠𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑝𝑎𝑡ℎ𝑠 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑘𝑛𝑜𝑤𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑠. 𝐽𝑜𝑦. 𝐺𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑓. 𝐴 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑦. 𝐴 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑚. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑤𝑒𝑏 𝑜𝑓 ℎ𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑒𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒. 𝑊𝑒 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑏𝑟𝑢𝑠ℎ 𝑎𝑔𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛𝑟𝑎𝑦𝑠— 𝑠𝑒𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑦 𝑝𝑢𝑟𝑝𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑠, 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝑠𝑜𝑚𝑒ℎ𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑓𝑢𝑙.”
“𝐵𝑒𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑦 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑚𝑒𝑑 𝑏𝑦 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑟𝑢𝑖𝑛. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒, 𝐼 𝑔𝑢𝑒𝑠𝑠.”
"…𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑜𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑔𝑛𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑑 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎𝑢𝑡𝑖𝑠𝑚 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑟𝑢𝑚 𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑒𝑟, 𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙 𝑜𝑛𝑒."…..”𝐼𝑡’𝑠 𝑎𝑠 𝑖𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑐𝑎𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑝𝑖𝑒𝑐𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑦 𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑡𝑦 ℎ𝑎𝑣𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑐𝑘𝑒𝑑 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑝𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑒. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑒 𝑚𝑦𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑐𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑦. 𝐴 𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑎𝑖𝑐 𝑜𝑓 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑡𝑜𝑔𝑒𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟..𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒.”
“𝐿𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑥𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑒𝑥𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒; 𝑖𝑡 𝑒𝑛𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑜𝑝𝑠 𝑢𝑠, 𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑢𝑠 𝑡𝑜 𝑐𝑙𝑖𝑚𝑏 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑚𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑠.”
“𝐴 𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤ℎ𝑜 𝑤𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑒𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑦 𝑠𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒.”
“𝐴 𝑐ℎ𝑜𝑟𝑢𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒, 𝑤𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑡𝑠𝑒𝑙𝑓 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑎 𝑡𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑣𝑜𝑖𝑐𝑒𝑠.”
“𝐸𝑎𝑐ℎ 𝑓𝑙𝑒𝑒𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑓𝑟𝑎𝑔𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑑𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑦. 𝐺𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑖𝑡 𝑝𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠.”
“𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑤𝑜𝑟𝑙𝑑 𝑜𝑢𝑡𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑐𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔, 𝑖𝑡𝑠 𝑑𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑙𝑠 𝑠𝑚𝑢𝑑𝑔𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑒𝑎𝑔𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑦 𝑑𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑚.”
“𝐴𝑏𝑜𝑣𝑒, 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛 𝑑𝑖𝑝𝑠. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑘𝑦 𝑒𝑥𝑝𝑙𝑜𝑑𝑒𝑠. 𝑂𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑒, 𝑝𝑖𝑛𝑘, 𝑝𝑢𝑟𝑝𝑙𝑒. 𝐶𝑙𝑜𝑢𝑑𝑠 𝑙𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑢𝑝 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑠𝑖𝑑𝑒 𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑙𝑡𝑒𝑛 𝑙𝑎𝑣𝑎. "𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑖𝑠 𝐺𝑜𝑑" 𝐼 𝑤ℎ𝑖𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑟. "𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑟𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑖𝑠 𝑎 𝑡𝑒𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒."
“𝑇ℎ𝑒𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑠𝑢𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑛𝑑 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑖𝑚𝑝𝑙𝑒𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠. 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑜𝑛𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑒𝑙 𝑒𝑥𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑜𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑟𝑦. 𝐼 𝑔𝑢𝑒𝑠𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡’𝑠 𝑗𝑢𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑖𝑐 𝑜𝑓 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒.”
December 1, 2025
How do you bloom without a place to root? It’s a question that underscores the gorgeous, lyrical prose throughout Fragments, a novel that feels less like reading than being ushered into a memory palace scented with love, loss, and slow healing.
Early on, Lena, mid-session with her psychiatrist, says, “Maybe it’s not fate. Maybe it’s just energy remembering itself.” That line feels like the book’s thesis.
In the social-media age, “fate” gets tossed about like glitter… a word sprinkled on coincidence. Its true etymology, fatum, is “that which has been spoken,” a prophetic declaration. Fragments reminds us that “fate” is a placeholder for alignments that lead to clarity: the way Lena’s future forms around painful debris she can no longer ignore.
A former model turned doctor, Lena reviews her life in cinematic, almost haunted vignettes. Phoenix, the artist who enters her orbit, is the hand that finds the exact bruise it’s meant to soothe. Later, after their daughter is diagnosed with autism, Lena begins to recognize familiar patterns in herself.
Through memory and confession, their lives assemble from broken pieces; each shard a choice, each jagged edge a universe that might have been.
If quantum theory is right—that every decision spawns infinite versions of ourselves—then there exist endless Lenas and Phoenixes who never collided. Versions who stayed. Versions who left. Versions still searching. My heart breaks for all of them. But in this universe, they find each other, and that feels like triumph against a cosmos indifferent to our longings.
“It has to be alchemy,” Lena says. “Because chemistry? That’s just science stripped of any magic.”
And yet Fragments, written by Magdalena & Ashe Stevens (the real-life Lena and Phoenix), insists on chemistry and alchemy. The prose is tender and exacting: scientific in observation, poetic in its depth.
If writing is the act of packaging wonder and delivering it to curious minds, Fragments is a fierce resistance to entropy: a love story born not of chapters but collisions. Gathering scattered pieces before the universe dissolves them.
Fragments is a 5-star read that affirms love isn’t an accident of particles; it’s the architecture we build from them.
★★★★★
Early on, Lena, mid-session with her psychiatrist, says, “Maybe it’s not fate. Maybe it’s just energy remembering itself.” That line feels like the book’s thesis.
In the social-media age, “fate” gets tossed about like glitter… a word sprinkled on coincidence. Its true etymology, fatum, is “that which has been spoken,” a prophetic declaration. Fragments reminds us that “fate” is a placeholder for alignments that lead to clarity: the way Lena’s future forms around painful debris she can no longer ignore.
A former model turned doctor, Lena reviews her life in cinematic, almost haunted vignettes. Phoenix, the artist who enters her orbit, is the hand that finds the exact bruise it’s meant to soothe. Later, after their daughter is diagnosed with autism, Lena begins to recognize familiar patterns in herself.
Through memory and confession, their lives assemble from broken pieces; each shard a choice, each jagged edge a universe that might have been.
If quantum theory is right—that every decision spawns infinite versions of ourselves—then there exist endless Lenas and Phoenixes who never collided. Versions who stayed. Versions who left. Versions still searching. My heart breaks for all of them. But in this universe, they find each other, and that feels like triumph against a cosmos indifferent to our longings.
“It has to be alchemy,” Lena says. “Because chemistry? That’s just science stripped of any magic.”
And yet Fragments, written by Magdalena & Ashe Stevens (the real-life Lena and Phoenix), insists on chemistry and alchemy. The prose is tender and exacting: scientific in observation, poetic in its depth.
If writing is the act of packaging wonder and delivering it to curious minds, Fragments is a fierce resistance to entropy: a love story born not of chapters but collisions. Gathering scattered pieces before the universe dissolves them.
Fragments is a 5-star read that affirms love isn’t an accident of particles; it’s the architecture we build from them.
★★★★★
November 6, 2025
What a beautiful story, like stepping back into memory lane. I really took my time with this one because I knew that the right mood and setting would matter, and I’m so glad I trusted that instinct. I savored every page. The writing is vivid and atmospheric; it made it so easy to picture every scene, every quiet corner of Paris, every emotional beat.
I’ve seen models in Paris before, but now—in both my fictional and real world-I know one. A brave one. A smart one. A beautiful one. Helena and Phoenix’s story starting on Myspace gave me all the giggles and butterflies. It brought back the memory of how connections used to feel online-more intimate, more genuine, before social media became something else entirely.
This book also doesn’t shy away from the heavy things. It explores toxic relationships, the courage it takes to leave, and the long journey back to your own peace. And the representation of autism here was so layered, vulnerable, and human. Not flattened or stereotyped—just real. The portrayal of a woman in medicine navigating identity and self-understanding added even more depth.
What touched me most was Helena’s relationship with her grandfather. Those scenes were warm and tender in a way that reached right into me. They made me think of my own grandmother, our friendship, and everything we shared. I actually had to stop and breathe because the emotion came so suddenly. But that’s what you want in a story—to feel something deeply, whether joy, sadness, nostalgia, relief, or love.
The writing is poetic, emotional, and quietly powerful. I highly recommend this book.
I’ve seen models in Paris before, but now—in both my fictional and real world-I know one. A brave one. A smart one. A beautiful one. Helena and Phoenix’s story starting on Myspace gave me all the giggles and butterflies. It brought back the memory of how connections used to feel online-more intimate, more genuine, before social media became something else entirely.
This book also doesn’t shy away from the heavy things. It explores toxic relationships, the courage it takes to leave, and the long journey back to your own peace. And the representation of autism here was so layered, vulnerable, and human. Not flattened or stereotyped—just real. The portrayal of a woman in medicine navigating identity and self-understanding added even more depth.
What touched me most was Helena’s relationship with her grandfather. Those scenes were warm and tender in a way that reached right into me. They made me think of my own grandmother, our friendship, and everything we shared. I actually had to stop and breathe because the emotion came so suddenly. But that’s what you want in a story—to feel something deeply, whether joy, sadness, nostalgia, relief, or love.
The writing is poetic, emotional, and quietly powerful. I highly recommend this book.
December 8, 2025
I remember when I received The Authors Couples first book, Lost in Beirut. I could feel their infectious excitement pouring through their messages. When Magdalena called me to discuss it, I was quickly caught up in needing to read their book immediately and became part of their journey. The same was true for this astonishingly emotional read that is based on Magdalena's life. My heart felt every part of her journey making her way from a young twenty-one-year-old model, who was tangled in an abusive marriage. To finding the courage to put a stop to it and to believe in herself. To believe that there was someone out there just for her. Someone who believes in her dreams of becoming a doctor.
As the story unfolds from the comfort of her therapist's couch. I was brought back in time with Magalena as she worked through and talked about her life. Who was there for her, who she needed to leave in the past, and who did not deserve all her love and attention. I wanted to be in her grandfather's kitchen eating a bowl of his homemade zurek. Listening to tales about his plants and the love of his life. When Myspace connects her to Phoenix, all bets are off. She has a feeling about his man of mystery. She needs to meet him, she must meet him, no matter what.
This book is about self-discovery, learning to love yourself no matter what, and to encourage those around you to feel that love. To be allowed to grow into whatever you want. My tears welled up on numerous occasions, and I had to bite my lip to get through. I highly recommend this book to one and all. Thank you to Magdalena and Ashe Stevens for my gifted copy. This book is gorgeous inside and out.
As the story unfolds from the comfort of her therapist's couch. I was brought back in time with Magalena as she worked through and talked about her life. Who was there for her, who she needed to leave in the past, and who did not deserve all her love and attention. I wanted to be in her grandfather's kitchen eating a bowl of his homemade zurek. Listening to tales about his plants and the love of his life. When Myspace connects her to Phoenix, all bets are off. She has a feeling about his man of mystery. She needs to meet him, she must meet him, no matter what.
This book is about self-discovery, learning to love yourself no matter what, and to encourage those around you to feel that love. To be allowed to grow into whatever you want. My tears welled up on numerous occasions, and I had to bite my lip to get through. I highly recommend this book to one and all. Thank you to Magdalena and Ashe Stevens for my gifted copy. This book is gorgeous inside and out.
October 17, 2025
While Fragments is a work of fiction, reading you can tell you are glimpsing through a window into the authors’ souls. Mystical, lyrical and heartbreakingly profound, they take you on a deeply emotional journey. Did I cry tears for a man I never met? Yes. Perhaps for the loss of never having someone so profound in my life. What an extraordinary gift that “Lena” now shares her Grandpa Stach’s wisdom with all of us. Their writing is so intensely personal and immersive. I felt every mile of the cross-country trip, sensed Phoenix’s hand as he put it on Lena’s, and saw the sparkles in Ruby’s eyes as if I were there myself.
Lena Hartley, a former Paris model turned successful doctor and mother embarks on a journey of healing when her daughter is diagnosed with autism. She begins to see somethings of herself reflected in her daughter and bravely takes the steps towards self-discovery.
“Told in lyrical flashback during one extraordinary psychiatric evaluation, Fragments is an emotionally raw story of love that nurtures, not destroys and the messy, beautiful process of self-discovery. For anyone who’s ever felt like too much – or not enough.”
Lena Hartley, a former Paris model turned successful doctor and mother embarks on a journey of healing when her daughter is diagnosed with autism. She begins to see somethings of herself reflected in her daughter and bravely takes the steps towards self-discovery.
“Told in lyrical flashback during one extraordinary psychiatric evaluation, Fragments is an emotionally raw story of love that nurtures, not destroys and the messy, beautiful process of self-discovery. For anyone who’s ever felt like too much – or not enough.”
September 16, 2025
Wow! Lost in Beirut was a fierce comet but Fragments is an emotional candle. I’ve read many hundreds of novels and even have a master degree in writing and I know that rarely do authors have the ability to pivot so dramatically from their intended genre and writing style. But after contemplating I realize it’s very evident , that there are two very talented authors so their range is limitless. Lost in Beirut was a vibrant story of what happens to the main character in extraordinary circumstances but Fragments is a visceral journey of what happens to Dr. Hartley internally. Through a poetic form of storytelling very unique to these authors , I found myself crying , questioning whether I too have autism , to again believing in myself and love for others. I wish I could read this fantastic novel again for the first time. I won’t forget this story.
September 14, 2025
I just finished this beautifully written book and I'm balling my eyes out!!! Lost in Beirut was fantastic but this next novel by my best friend Ashe just has me in tears! How a book can make me so emotional , I have no idea. Ive never cried reading book but I just couldnt stop. My heart is so full after reading this emotional story of their love! Love this book ! Love these authors ! My only advice is take your time and enjoy this poetic masterpiece!! My hats off to you two and my heart is full !!!
November 1, 2025
4.5/5 Stars: This was such a sweet yet raw and emotional story about understanding yourself through love, trials and tribulations. I like how it went back and forth from the past to the therapist in the present. Also as a mom it was so relatable!
Thank you again to Magdalena & Ashe for sending me a beautiful copy of this wonderful book!
Thank you again to Magdalena & Ashe for sending me a beautiful copy of this wonderful book!
December 1, 2025
I don’t normally rate memoirs, as I feel like it’s unfair to rate a persons experience.
However!!! Ashe and Magdalena’s writing is so lyrical and poetic, it deserves a 5 ⭐️ for that alone! Add in their story, well you won’t be able to put this book down.
However!!! Ashe and Magdalena’s writing is so lyrical and poetic, it deserves a 5 ⭐️ for that alone! Add in their story, well you won’t be able to put this book down.
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November 15, 2025REVIEW TO COME
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