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Picking up the Pieces
In this heart-warming story from million copy bestselling author Amanda Prowse, Nora has given up on finding happiness. But has it been waiting for her all along?
As Nora and her British Army officer husband, Gordy, pack up yet another home and leave the sun of Cyprus for the drizzle of England, she can’t shake a feeling of regret—at her failure to follow her own dreams, but also, if she’s honest, at having ended up an officer’s wife at all, drifting through a life of temporary homes and temporary relationships.
Since losing her parents at a young age, Nora’s life has been lacking an anchor: someone or something to make her feel secure. Her marriage has been her only permanent relationship, and just as even that appears to be fizzling out, a tragedy forces Nora into the role of legal guardian to her seven-year-old nephew, Ted. Faced suddenly with a responsibility she never dreamed of, how can Nora possibly offer the boy the kind of unconditional love he deserves, when she’s never experienced it for herself?
But as she navigates the precarious and unfamiliar world of parenthood, Nora begins to see herself through Ted’s eyes, as someone worthy of love and even joy. When she’s welcomed into the previously intimidating huddle of mums at the school gate, she has to wonder: is it too late to smash down the other barriers she’s built—and to have a second chance at a happy marriage with Gordy?
As Nora and her British Army officer husband, Gordy, pack up yet another home and leave the sun of Cyprus for the drizzle of England, she can’t shake a feeling of regret—at her failure to follow her own dreams, but also, if she’s honest, at having ended up an officer’s wife at all, drifting through a life of temporary homes and temporary relationships.
Since losing her parents at a young age, Nora’s life has been lacking an anchor: someone or something to make her feel secure. Her marriage has been her only permanent relationship, and just as even that appears to be fizzling out, a tragedy forces Nora into the role of legal guardian to her seven-year-old nephew, Ted. Faced suddenly with a responsibility she never dreamed of, how can Nora possibly offer the boy the kind of unconditional love he deserves, when she’s never experienced it for herself?
But as she navigates the precarious and unfamiliar world of parenthood, Nora begins to see herself through Ted’s eyes, as someone worthy of love and even joy. When she’s welcomed into the previously intimidating huddle of mums at the school gate, she has to wonder: is it too late to smash down the other barriers she’s built—and to have a second chance at a happy marriage with Gordy?
343 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2023
2610 people are currently reading
5318 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Prowse
83 books1,944 followersPrevious Book: 'Swimming to Lundy', published th August 2024'.
Latest Book: 'This One Life', published 7th January 2025.
Next Book: 'Ever After' published 7th August 2025.
Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose thirty-two novels, two non-fiction titles and ten novellas have been published in dozens of languages around the world. Published by Lake Union, Amanda is the most prolific writer of bestselling contemporary fiction in the UK today; her titles also consistently score the highest online review approval ratings across several genres. Her books, including the chart topping No.1 titles 'What Have I Done?', 'Perfect Daughter', 'My Husband's Wife', 'The Girl in the Corner' and ‘The Things I Know’ have sold millions of copies across the globe.
A popular TV and radio personality, Amanda has appeared on numerous shows where her views on family and social issues strike a chord with viewers. She also makes countless guest appearances on BBC national and independent Radio stations including LBC, Times Radio and Talk FM, where she is well known for her insightful observations and her infectious humour. Described by the Daily Mail as ‘The queen of family drama’ Amanda’s novel, 'A Mother's Story' won the coveted Sainsbury's eBook of the year Award and she has had two books selected as World Book Night titles, 'Perfect Daughter' in 2016 and 'The Boy Between' in 2022.
Amanda is a huge supporter of libraries and having become a proud ambassador for The Reading Agency, works tirelessly to promote reading, especially in disadvantaged areas. Amanda's ambition is to create stories that keep people from turning the bedside lamp off at night, great characters that ensure you take every step with them and tales that fill your head so you can't possibly read another book until the memory fades...
Praise for Amanda Prowse:
'A powerful and emotional work of fiction' - Piers Morgan
'Deeply moving and emotional, Amanda Prowse handles her explosive subjects with delicate skill' - Daily Mail
'Uplifting and positive, but you will still need a box of tissues' - Hello!
'A gut-wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' - The Irish Sun
'You'll fall in love with this...' - Cosmopolitan
'Deeply moving and eye opening. Powerful and emotional drama that packs a real punch.' - Heat
'Magical' - Now magazine
Latest Book: 'This One Life', published 7th January 2025.
Next Book: 'Ever After' published 7th August 2025.
Amanda Prowse is an International Bestselling author whose thirty-two novels, two non-fiction titles and ten novellas have been published in dozens of languages around the world. Published by Lake Union, Amanda is the most prolific writer of bestselling contemporary fiction in the UK today; her titles also consistently score the highest online review approval ratings across several genres. Her books, including the chart topping No.1 titles 'What Have I Done?', 'Perfect Daughter', 'My Husband's Wife', 'The Girl in the Corner' and ‘The Things I Know’ have sold millions of copies across the globe.
A popular TV and radio personality, Amanda has appeared on numerous shows where her views on family and social issues strike a chord with viewers. She also makes countless guest appearances on BBC national and independent Radio stations including LBC, Times Radio and Talk FM, where she is well known for her insightful observations and her infectious humour. Described by the Daily Mail as ‘The queen of family drama’ Amanda’s novel, 'A Mother's Story' won the coveted Sainsbury's eBook of the year Award and she has had two books selected as World Book Night titles, 'Perfect Daughter' in 2016 and 'The Boy Between' in 2022.
Amanda is a huge supporter of libraries and having become a proud ambassador for The Reading Agency, works tirelessly to promote reading, especially in disadvantaged areas. Amanda's ambition is to create stories that keep people from turning the bedside lamp off at night, great characters that ensure you take every step with them and tales that fill your head so you can't possibly read another book until the memory fades...
Praise for Amanda Prowse:
'A powerful and emotional work of fiction' - Piers Morgan
'Deeply moving and emotional, Amanda Prowse handles her explosive subjects with delicate skill' - Daily Mail
'Uplifting and positive, but you will still need a box of tissues' - Hello!
'A gut-wrenching and absolutely brilliant read' - The Irish Sun
'You'll fall in love with this...' - Cosmopolitan
'Deeply moving and eye opening. Powerful and emotional drama that packs a real punch.' - Heat
'Magical' - Now magazine
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
February 10, 2023
EXCERPT: .....she did what she always did in this situation: drank more coffee, stared at the Grecian-blue horizon, and wished she wasn't so damn lonely. Maybe Sophie Cosworth was right: it was easier to make friends if you could join a mummy-club, but if everyone in that club was as fixated with their kids as Jasmine and her crew were, Nora knew she wouldn't fit in anyway. Besides, how did that work? Choosing friends based on the fact that you'd all managed to reproduce? It really was as ludicrous as it sounded. She had friends from university whom she rarely saw but knew that if ever she were in Colorado or Milton Keynes, she could look up her old roommates and be assured of a friendly welcome and a bed for the night. But the kind of mate she could call up for a chat, meet for coffee, turn to for advice? They were a bit thin on the ground. She saw the fact that she was not quite one of the gang as further proof of her oddness, and it hurt.
ABOUT 'PICKING UP THE PIECES': As Nora and her British Army officer husband, Gordy, pack up yet another home and leave the sun of Cyprus for the drizzle of England, she can’t shake a feeling of regret—at her failure to follow her own dreams, but also, if she’s honest, at having ended up an officer’s wife at all, drifting through a life of temporary homes and temporary relationships.
Since losing her parents at a young age, Nora’s life has been lacking an anchor: someone or something to make her feel secure. Her marriage has been her only permanent relationship, and just as even that appears to be fizzling out, a tragedy forces Nora into the role of legal guardian to her seven-year-old nephew, Ted. Faced suddenly with a responsibility she never dreamed of, how can Nora possibly offer the boy the kind of unconditional love he deserves, when she’s never experienced it for herself?
But as she navigates the precarious and unfamiliar world of parenthood, Nora begins to see herself through Ted’s eyes, as someone worthy of love and even joy. When she’s welcomed into the previously intimidating huddle of mums at the school gate, she has to wonder: is it too late to smash down the other barriers she’s built—and to have a second chance at a happy marriage with Gordy?
MY THOUGHTS: I can always rely on finishing an Amanda Prowse book with a big smile on my face and my tear ducts in overdrive. Picking Up The Pieces was no exception. I felt all the emotions as I was reading - more than once.
I loved Nora's character; she is initially prickly and standoffish, unsure of both her place in the world and her future. She is not close to and is resentful of her only and much younger sister, Kiki.
But when Kiki is rushed to hospital, Nora finds herself suddenly responsible for her beguiling young nephew Ted. Never having been, nor ever having wanted to be a parent, Nora is out of her depth. How does she relate to this child who has only an occasional and tenuous relationship with his father, who is not to be relied on, and who is now also without his mother? And what does she say to the question, 'When's mummy coming home?', a question she cannot begin to answer.
Gordy, Nora's almost estranged husband is a wonderful character, as are all Kiki's friends, who surround Nora with support and friendship despite her best efforts to push them away.
This unplanned parenting experience, with all that it brings, will either make or break Nora. Which will it be?
Amanda Prowse has written a beautiful and touching book that has something in it for all of us. It deals with mental health problems, the isolating effects of depression, and the value of friendship.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#PickingupthePieces #NetGalley
I: @mrsamandaprowse @amazonpublishing
T: @MrsAmandaProwse @AmazonPub
#contemporaryfiction #familydrama #romance
THE AUTHOR: Amanda Prowse was a management consultant for ten years before realising that she was born to write. Amanda lives in the West Country with her husband and their two teenage sons.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing, via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Picking up the Pieces by Amanda Prowse for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'PICKING UP THE PIECES': As Nora and her British Army officer husband, Gordy, pack up yet another home and leave the sun of Cyprus for the drizzle of England, she can’t shake a feeling of regret—at her failure to follow her own dreams, but also, if she’s honest, at having ended up an officer’s wife at all, drifting through a life of temporary homes and temporary relationships.
Since losing her parents at a young age, Nora’s life has been lacking an anchor: someone or something to make her feel secure. Her marriage has been her only permanent relationship, and just as even that appears to be fizzling out, a tragedy forces Nora into the role of legal guardian to her seven-year-old nephew, Ted. Faced suddenly with a responsibility she never dreamed of, how can Nora possibly offer the boy the kind of unconditional love he deserves, when she’s never experienced it for herself?
But as she navigates the precarious and unfamiliar world of parenthood, Nora begins to see herself through Ted’s eyes, as someone worthy of love and even joy. When she’s welcomed into the previously intimidating huddle of mums at the school gate, she has to wonder: is it too late to smash down the other barriers she’s built—and to have a second chance at a happy marriage with Gordy?
MY THOUGHTS: I can always rely on finishing an Amanda Prowse book with a big smile on my face and my tear ducts in overdrive. Picking Up The Pieces was no exception. I felt all the emotions as I was reading - more than once.
I loved Nora's character; she is initially prickly and standoffish, unsure of both her place in the world and her future. She is not close to and is resentful of her only and much younger sister, Kiki.
But when Kiki is rushed to hospital, Nora finds herself suddenly responsible for her beguiling young nephew Ted. Never having been, nor ever having wanted to be a parent, Nora is out of her depth. How does she relate to this child who has only an occasional and tenuous relationship with his father, who is not to be relied on, and who is now also without his mother? And what does she say to the question, 'When's mummy coming home?', a question she cannot begin to answer.
Gordy, Nora's almost estranged husband is a wonderful character, as are all Kiki's friends, who surround Nora with support and friendship despite her best efforts to push them away.
This unplanned parenting experience, with all that it brings, will either make or break Nora. Which will it be?
Amanda Prowse has written a beautiful and touching book that has something in it for all of us. It deals with mental health problems, the isolating effects of depression, and the value of friendship.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#PickingupthePieces #NetGalley
I: @mrsamandaprowse @amazonpublishing
T: @MrsAmandaProwse @AmazonPub
#contemporaryfiction #familydrama #romance
THE AUTHOR: Amanda Prowse was a management consultant for ten years before realising that she was born to write. Amanda lives in the West Country with her husband and their two teenage sons.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing, via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of Picking up the Pieces by Amanda Prowse for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
November 6, 2022
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4.5 Stars
Amanda Prowse is the UK Queen of women's heartfelt fiction. This is my sixth book by the author and every single one of them has been a four or five-star read and Picking Up the Pieces is no different.
In this tale, Nora goes to help look after her nephew while her sister is recovering in the hospital. Nora is not close to her sister and she barely knows her young nephew, Ted, at all. At the same time, she has taken all this on her marriage is in crisis. We also get a look at Nora's childhood and how she lost her distant parents at such a young age. I know it seems like a lot is going on but it all makes sense and weaves together beautifully in the end.
I liked how the book touched on the mental health aspect, it was portrayed in such a realistic manner and with such sensitivity. I also felt I learned something from it, never be ashamed of needing or asking for help. It can be such a touchy subject matter but the author writes about it in an educational and sensitive manner.
With her life falling apart at the seams, can Nora handle what life's thrown at her? You'll have to read the book to find out! This was such a heartwarming and uplifting read and I enjoyed every page of it, Ms. Prowse is such a magnificent teller of tales. I hugged this when I was done.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
#PickingupthePieces #NetGalley
4.5 Stars
Amanda Prowse is the UK Queen of women's heartfelt fiction. This is my sixth book by the author and every single one of them has been a four or five-star read and Picking Up the Pieces is no different.
In this tale, Nora goes to help look after her nephew while her sister is recovering in the hospital. Nora is not close to her sister and she barely knows her young nephew, Ted, at all. At the same time, she has taken all this on her marriage is in crisis. We also get a look at Nora's childhood and how she lost her distant parents at such a young age. I know it seems like a lot is going on but it all makes sense and weaves together beautifully in the end.
I liked how the book touched on the mental health aspect, it was portrayed in such a realistic manner and with such sensitivity. I also felt I learned something from it, never be ashamed of needing or asking for help. It can be such a touchy subject matter but the author writes about it in an educational and sensitive manner.
With her life falling apart at the seams, can Nora handle what life's thrown at her? You'll have to read the book to find out! This was such a heartwarming and uplifting read and I enjoyed every page of it, Ms. Prowse is such a magnificent teller of tales. I hugged this when I was done.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
#PickingupthePieces #NetGalley
September 12, 2025
Amanda Prowse has always been my go-to author for that multi-generational family drama where the sins of the past haunt the present. I'm always done catching up on most of the author's releases, and this weekend, Picking Up the Pieces was next in queue. A marriage is failing, but there's hope for it to be saved. When the wife's sister has an accident, she must leave her husband and take care of her nephew. During their absence, things change and provide direction for a different future. Toss in the impact of parenthood when it's unexpected and readers have a delightful experience getting to know a different way of life. Enjoyed it a lot... a few slightly lengthy scenes that kept the story from moving forward, as well as disconnected from the past and present, but overall, truly enjoyable and impactful.
January 10, 2023
‘the beautiful thing about life, [is] it begins when we let it.’ ‘Picking up the Pieces’ is about learning to rebuild yourself when life shatters you.
Nora is a lonely child, born to Bohemian parents who seem to have little care for her existence. She seeks stability by marrying a military man. However, ultimately, because Nora felt unloved as a child, she feels unlovable; keeping everyone at a distance. ‘It’s hard to love when you have grown up without being loved.’ When her sister Kiki reaches a crisis point, Nora is forced to step in, step up, and question her own misconceptions. She realises that it’s human connection, shared memories and vulnerability that makes life meaningful.
Amanda Prowse has written a poignant book which gracefully deals with mental health, love and connection. I did find the first half of the book slow to build, but the second half unfurled to reveal real warmth and honesty. Overall a good piece of contemporary fiction.
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Nora is a lonely child, born to Bohemian parents who seem to have little care for her existence. She seeks stability by marrying a military man. However, ultimately, because Nora felt unloved as a child, she feels unlovable; keeping everyone at a distance. ‘It’s hard to love when you have grown up without being loved.’ When her sister Kiki reaches a crisis point, Nora is forced to step in, step up, and question her own misconceptions. She realises that it’s human connection, shared memories and vulnerability that makes life meaningful.
Amanda Prowse has written a poignant book which gracefully deals with mental health, love and connection. I did find the first half of the book slow to build, but the second half unfurled to reveal real warmth and honesty. Overall a good piece of contemporary fiction.
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 27, 2023
This book wasn’t for me!! I couldn’t stay interested in the book whatsoever. I kept putting the book down and drifting off
January 19, 2023
Another gloriously well-written novel by Amanda Prowse. What does life have in store for Nora and Gordy who love each other? This heart-warming story explores relationships, loneliness, the value of friendship, mental health issues and support. Books like this one make my reading days quite perfect and I strongly recommend grabbing yourself a copy of Picking up the Pieces.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Lake Union Publishing via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
January 9, 2023
Second chances!
Ever fall in love with a story? Well it’s rare for me to be totally smitten by a story. But with this I was. A story that draws you in, reveals and holds your hand as you stand in the shoes of an abandoned child, a broken marriage, and the rediscovery of family and friends and joy.
Leonora’s parents had been wildly in love, ultra bohemian, and her father a talented artist. They’d died in a car accident, an accident their six year old daughter Nora was sure would happen. Not the accident per se, but that something bad would happen.
Years later their father’s old patron, Santiago Agosti, is trying to trace Leonora and Kiki. He wants to give a painting of their father’s to them before he dies. This continues to play out through the story.
Meanwhile, now an adult, Nora, is completely blindsided when she receives a phone call saying her sister Kiki was in hospital and her seven year old nephew Ted needed help. Kiki had named Norah as Ted’s guardian.
Nora ‘s husband Gordy is with the army. They’re stationed in Cyprus and about to ship back to Wiltshire, England to take a promotion. Not only that, their marriage has hit a down turn and they’re drifting apart. Nora doesn’t fit into the role of army wife that well. Oh, she follows the drum but can’t relate to the other wives. Gordy’s mentioned divorce. All that is sidelined as Nora rushes to England for her sister and nephew’s sake.
A story of facing the realities of life, of second chances and emphasisng the need for a community to help and hold you. A timely book of hope that shows we are all wounded. I loved it.
An Amazon, UK ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Ever fall in love with a story? Well it’s rare for me to be totally smitten by a story. But with this I was. A story that draws you in, reveals and holds your hand as you stand in the shoes of an abandoned child, a broken marriage, and the rediscovery of family and friends and joy.
Leonora’s parents had been wildly in love, ultra bohemian, and her father a talented artist. They’d died in a car accident, an accident their six year old daughter Nora was sure would happen. Not the accident per se, but that something bad would happen.
Years later their father’s old patron, Santiago Agosti, is trying to trace Leonora and Kiki. He wants to give a painting of their father’s to them before he dies. This continues to play out through the story.
Meanwhile, now an adult, Nora, is completely blindsided when she receives a phone call saying her sister Kiki was in hospital and her seven year old nephew Ted needed help. Kiki had named Norah as Ted’s guardian.
Nora ‘s husband Gordy is with the army. They’re stationed in Cyprus and about to ship back to Wiltshire, England to take a promotion. Not only that, their marriage has hit a down turn and they’re drifting apart. Nora doesn’t fit into the role of army wife that well. Oh, she follows the drum but can’t relate to the other wives. Gordy’s mentioned divorce. All that is sidelined as Nora rushes to England for her sister and nephew’s sake.
A story of facing the realities of life, of second chances and emphasisng the need for a community to help and hold you. A timely book of hope that shows we are all wounded. I loved it.
An Amazon, UK ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
October 14, 2022
Amanda Prowse has done it again in producing another super story. This time I’m sure she drew on her experiences she witnessed as an Army wife which enriched this tale.
Nora and her British Army Officer husband Gordy have moved home so many times, as expected with his job, but when he is stationed back to England after Cyprus Nora starts to have doubts if this is the life she wants to continue with. Nora dreams of settling in a permanent house where she can follow her passion and garden to hearts content.
Just as they begin to pack up Nora receives a phone call that turns her life upside down, as she suddenly finds herself responsible for her seven-year-old Nephew Ted. Nora decided very early on that mother hood was not for her but faced with new experiences she begins to realise that this decision affected both hers and Gordy’s life.
This heart-warming story explores loneliness, relationships and mental health showing that support can come from surprising sources. I loved this story and its characters.
My thanks to Net Galley and Amazon Publishing UK for the advanced copy.
Nora and her British Army Officer husband Gordy have moved home so many times, as expected with his job, but when he is stationed back to England after Cyprus Nora starts to have doubts if this is the life she wants to continue with. Nora dreams of settling in a permanent house where she can follow her passion and garden to hearts content.
Just as they begin to pack up Nora receives a phone call that turns her life upside down, as she suddenly finds herself responsible for her seven-year-old Nephew Ted. Nora decided very early on that mother hood was not for her but faced with new experiences she begins to realise that this decision affected both hers and Gordy’s life.
This heart-warming story explores loneliness, relationships and mental health showing that support can come from surprising sources. I loved this story and its characters.
My thanks to Net Galley and Amazon Publishing UK for the advanced copy.
December 5, 2022
I love Amanda Prowse's books, and this is up there with the best of them. She has taken two topics which she knows about first hand, and woven then into a novel which is contemporary, heart warming, at times unsettling, and I just couldn't put down - and read the whole book in just over a day!
Nora is married to an army man through and through. In fact Gordy has risen so high he has recently become a Colonel. This has involved several moves of home, and country, and somewhere along the line they have lost themselves as a couple. She had a somewhat unusual childhood, with bohemian parents who died in a car accident, which has left her not wanting children, and wary of making friends. Gordy was her world until he became a workaholic and they drifted slowly apart. During the latest move, from Cyprus back to the UK, Gordy voices what they are both feeling and suggests a divorce, which rocks Nora's world. At the same time her world gets totally spun of it's axis when she gets a call that her sister in the UK has tried to commit suicide and she needs to come home quickly and look after her young nephew.
She is the only family her sister has, but she has hardly seen her for years, and wouldn't really recognise her nephew, and has no experience of children. Nora is thrown into a world completely alien to her, all with the spectre of divorce looming over her.
This book deals with some very difficult subjects sensitively and with great insight due to the Author's own experiences. It is beautifully written with very real characters who I will miss. A great book to curl up with on a cold winter's day, in front of a roaring fire, and escape into another world. I loved it.
Nora is married to an army man through and through. In fact Gordy has risen so high he has recently become a Colonel. This has involved several moves of home, and country, and somewhere along the line they have lost themselves as a couple. She had a somewhat unusual childhood, with bohemian parents who died in a car accident, which has left her not wanting children, and wary of making friends. Gordy was her world until he became a workaholic and they drifted slowly apart. During the latest move, from Cyprus back to the UK, Gordy voices what they are both feeling and suggests a divorce, which rocks Nora's world. At the same time her world gets totally spun of it's axis when she gets a call that her sister in the UK has tried to commit suicide and she needs to come home quickly and look after her young nephew.
She is the only family her sister has, but she has hardly seen her for years, and wouldn't really recognise her nephew, and has no experience of children. Nora is thrown into a world completely alien to her, all with the spectre of divorce looming over her.
This book deals with some very difficult subjects sensitively and with great insight due to the Author's own experiences. It is beautifully written with very real characters who I will miss. A great book to curl up with on a cold winter's day, in front of a roaring fire, and escape into another world. I loved it.
December 30, 2022
Another heartwarming book from Amanda Prowse.
I normally read crime books but I can never resist books by this author.
Nora is struggling in her marriage to Gordy and just as he mentions the possibility of a divorce, she receives a phone call.
Her sister, Kiki has tried to kill herself and Nora is asked to look after her nephew, Ted.
Due to her childhood, Nora never wanted children and is scared of the prospect of looking after Ted. She goes to him and is surprised how much she cares for him in his time of need.
Nora takes him to spend time with Gordy while his mum recovers and the child starts to reignite the spark between them.
This is a brilliant book that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
I normally read crime books but I can never resist books by this author.
Nora is struggling in her marriage to Gordy and just as he mentions the possibility of a divorce, she receives a phone call.
Her sister, Kiki has tried to kill herself and Nora is asked to look after her nephew, Ted.
Due to her childhood, Nora never wanted children and is scared of the prospect of looking after Ted. She goes to him and is surprised how much she cares for him in his time of need.
Nora takes him to spend time with Gordy while his mum recovers and the child starts to reignite the spark between them.
This is a brilliant book that I really enjoyed.
Thanks to Amazon Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 13, 2022
Fantastic, as only an Amanda Prowse can be ❤️
January 11, 2023
AMANDA PROWSE: PICKING UP THE PIECES.
Nora grew up as a somewhat lonely child, with distant parents who showed her little care.
As an adult, Nora married, but found herself just as unhappy and feeling unloved as she had as a child.
When Nora’s sister finds herself in hospital, she needs Nora’s help. Despite the pair not being particularly close, Nora steps up to help her sister by taking care of her young nephew.
As Nora is thrown into a world that is totally unfamiliar, can she find, and build bonds with those closest to her? And is it too late to save her marriage?
This is another outstandingly gorgeous book from Amanda Prowse. There are few authors who write with such fluid beauty in their words.
This book is an emotional read. It’s all about second chances and learning to love yourself.
I was so touched by some of the themes in this book. Not for the first time, Amanda Prowse spoke to me with her writing and stirred some deep rooted feelings within me.
Overall, this is a story that will take your heart, and squeeze it with a range of emotions.
Picking Up The Pieces will envelope you and consume you. It will uplift you and charm you.
An utterly exquisite read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing Uk for a digital arc of this title.
Nora grew up as a somewhat lonely child, with distant parents who showed her little care.
As an adult, Nora married, but found herself just as unhappy and feeling unloved as she had as a child.
When Nora’s sister finds herself in hospital, she needs Nora’s help. Despite the pair not being particularly close, Nora steps up to help her sister by taking care of her young nephew.
As Nora is thrown into a world that is totally unfamiliar, can she find, and build bonds with those closest to her? And is it too late to save her marriage?
This is another outstandingly gorgeous book from Amanda Prowse. There are few authors who write with such fluid beauty in their words.
This book is an emotional read. It’s all about second chances and learning to love yourself.
I was so touched by some of the themes in this book. Not for the first time, Amanda Prowse spoke to me with her writing and stirred some deep rooted feelings within me.
Overall, this is a story that will take your heart, and squeeze it with a range of emotions.
Picking Up The Pieces will envelope you and consume you. It will uplift you and charm you.
An utterly exquisite read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Netgalley and Amazon Publishing Uk for a digital arc of this title.
January 10, 2023
Another Amanda Prowse book to dive into? Don't mind if I do! I am a huge fan of her magnificent writing, and I was not disappointed at all by the beautiful story that is Picking Up the Pieces. Nora is a military wife, used to accompanying her well-decorated husband Gordy wherever he is stationed, but life is beginning to feel tiresome. She's lost all sense of roots. They are on the brink of collapse when a phone call shatters what was her life, as she rushes to be a support for her sister, Kiki, and little nephew, Ted. I don't want to reiterate the story to you. What kind of review would that be? But what I will say is that Amanda Prowse has sensitively dealt with the fragility of mental health here as well as delving into how childhood experiences can shape your thinking and way of life more than you know. Nora and Gordy are two people you could be friends with. Kiki and her masquerade as a happy single mum remind you that you should never judge a book by its cover. And I have to mention the little diversion to the story that comes in several snippets from Spain, that weaves another layer of magic into the inevitable ending. Beautiful story. I read it in a day, and I have to admit to being a little sad when it ended, too! Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for an ARC.
October 8, 2022
Another brilliant book. Some of the topics covered in this story are close to Amanda's heart: military life and mental health issues. Strong, lovable and realistic characters are cemented in this story. Hidden family issues surface in the lives of sisters Nora and Kiki. Both have struggled to accept the past but with different aspects. Gordy and Ted need to feel needed but they have plenty of love to give. Can the four of them overcome the past and look to a solid future?
September 21, 2022
Heartbreaking, bittersweet and funny in places. Amanda certainly writes the type of book that tugs at the heartstrings without being emotionally draining. I love the relationship between all the female characters and you don’t need to be biologically related to have that sister bond which is how it should be.
January 5, 2023
What a magical book. My heart is heavy, yet happy! I cant even put into words how this book touched my heart. Dealing with mental health issues in such a touchful way..beautiful. I cant tell you
How much you have to ready this book...once you do... you will feel the magic.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book.
How much you have to ready this book...once you do... you will feel the magic.
Thanks to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for an early release of this book.
February 17, 2023
Trigger warning - It should be mentioned in the blurb this story deals with a suicide attempt and goes in to some detail.
January 30, 2023
Nora is at a crossroads. Military wife facing another move, no self worth but much self doubt, marriage becoming stale. Though not close with her sister, she runs to her side when she’s needed and finds a whole new understanding of herself. The importance of family and communication is highlighted.
No one writes heart warming, human emotion like Amanda Prowse. Her books are just so easy to curl up with. Prowse deals with heavy issues in this book; parenting, mental health, marital issues, family dysfunction in a clear, precise manner. Strong relatable characters that suck you in their lives and you become part of.
Thanks to Ms. Prowse, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC. Opinion is mine alone
No one writes heart warming, human emotion like Amanda Prowse. Her books are just so easy to curl up with. Prowse deals with heavy issues in this book; parenting, mental health, marital issues, family dysfunction in a clear, precise manner. Strong relatable characters that suck you in their lives and you become part of.
Thanks to Ms. Prowse, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC. Opinion is mine alone
December 23, 2022
Nora is married to Gordy, who has just been promoted to Colonel of the British Army, they are currently stationed in Cyprus and will shortly be relocating back to the UK, but she feels like her life has no meaning and doesn't know where her marriage is heading, then Gordy announces it may be best to call it a day, she is still reeling from this revelation when she receives a call from the UK about her sister Kiki being rushed to hospital and Nora is needed to take responsibility for her seven year old nephew Ted. Having no children of her own and not having the best relationship with her own parents when she was a child, or a close bond with Kiki due to their age gap, Nora is unsure whether she's capable of being the right person for the job, and she also needs to figure out what to do to save her marriage...
In Picking up the Pieces Amanda writes about two subjects, of which she has first hand experience, and deals with them sensitively and compassionately. As with all her other books she puts pen to paper and creates characters that are so authentic they come to life on these very pages and become real to her readers. This story follows two sisters who are struggling with life in different ways and much of it stems back to their childhood before they lost their parents and the effect that has had on them since, even though on the face of it they appear to be happy, this just proves that you never know what's going on behind the smile. I took an instant liking to Nora and the way she stepped up for her sister and nephew, even though she was floundering, I absolutely adored Ted and the love that Kiki's friends had for her and Ted, and even enveloping Nora into that love too. This beautiful book played on all my emotions, smiling one minute and crying the next, because this is what Amanda's books do to you and I absolutely loved it, another top notch read from this amazing author.
I'd like to thank Amazon Publishing and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
In Picking up the Pieces Amanda writes about two subjects, of which she has first hand experience, and deals with them sensitively and compassionately. As with all her other books she puts pen to paper and creates characters that are so authentic they come to life on these very pages and become real to her readers. This story follows two sisters who are struggling with life in different ways and much of it stems back to their childhood before they lost their parents and the effect that has had on them since, even though on the face of it they appear to be happy, this just proves that you never know what's going on behind the smile. I took an instant liking to Nora and the way she stepped up for her sister and nephew, even though she was floundering, I absolutely adored Ted and the love that Kiki's friends had for her and Ted, and even enveloping Nora into that love too. This beautiful book played on all my emotions, smiling one minute and crying the next, because this is what Amanda's books do to you and I absolutely loved it, another top notch read from this amazing author.
I'd like to thank Amazon Publishing and Netgalley for the approval, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
March 3, 2024
Beautifully written book with a sombre undertone for the most part. Amanda Prowse does not sugar coat life, which makes her books raw and real.
October 16, 2022
I’ve just finished this beautiful book well past my bedtime. Amanda has done it again, I was left with a warm feeling and an admiration of how great a storyteller she is.
Nora is married to Gordy a British Army Officer. It has been her job to support her husband and follow him from post to post. She has reached a point in her life when she begins to question her life and happiness. Past childhood experiences have left an imprint on her life and Gordy provided a safe haven for her to escape those experiences but she now wonders has she lost her way along the way.
Nora’s younger sister Kiki has been a distant part of her life. She has always seemed happy and carefree to Nora but a phone call reveals Kiki is far from happy and in fact she in hospital following a suicide attempt.
Nora travels kiki’s home to help look after Ted her seven year old nephew. Navigating the unfamiliar parenthood role gives Nora a purpose and joy she never expected. It leads her to open up more and allow others to come into her life, making unexpected friends and reconnecting with her sister and her husband in turn.
I loved the second story based in Spain which was a large part of Nora’s story and one which ran throughout the book . It really made me understand Nora more. I was willing the beautiful letter to wing its way to its rightful owner and what a story it created itself as well.
This book covered so many topics all which most people will experience in their own lives. One in particular, mental health was portrayed in an enlightening and informative way. It touched my heart and made me feel like I knew the characters personally. A truly beautiful book and one which I didn’t want to end.
Nora is married to Gordy a British Army Officer. It has been her job to support her husband and follow him from post to post. She has reached a point in her life when she begins to question her life and happiness. Past childhood experiences have left an imprint on her life and Gordy provided a safe haven for her to escape those experiences but she now wonders has she lost her way along the way.
Nora’s younger sister Kiki has been a distant part of her life. She has always seemed happy and carefree to Nora but a phone call reveals Kiki is far from happy and in fact she in hospital following a suicide attempt.
Nora travels kiki’s home to help look after Ted her seven year old nephew. Navigating the unfamiliar parenthood role gives Nora a purpose and joy she never expected. It leads her to open up more and allow others to come into her life, making unexpected friends and reconnecting with her sister and her husband in turn.
I loved the second story based in Spain which was a large part of Nora’s story and one which ran throughout the book . It really made me understand Nora more. I was willing the beautiful letter to wing its way to its rightful owner and what a story it created itself as well.
This book covered so many topics all which most people will experience in their own lives. One in particular, mental health was portrayed in an enlightening and informative way. It touched my heart and made me feel like I knew the characters personally. A truly beautiful book and one which I didn’t want to end.
October 3, 2022
This is the fourth time I have read a book by Amanda Prowse and again I am really impressed with a story that celebrates the strength of women in a variety of circumstances. I really love the way the author tends to write about older, middle-age women, because I think it adds so much depth to the story and their experiences.
Picking Up The Pieces is the story of Nora, married to military man Gordy, who feel as though their marriage is on the brink. When Nora returns to England to care for her sister’s son whilst her sister is unwell, Nora realises just how much she’s missed out on in her life by not having children. The book also looks at Nora and Kiki’s early life and the experiences they had by having very distracted, neglectful parents.
The storyline of Kiki’s mental illness was approached with great sensitivity and I liked the way things were resolved in the storyline which reflected both how hard it can be to have a mental illness and see a path forward but didn’t feel as if it was too quick to be resolved in the story.
I thought the most genuine and heartfelt scene of the whole book was when Nora and Gordy talked and argued as they were on the brink of divorce. The dialogue seemed so real and I didn’t know which way they would go with their relationship. I did really feel that things worked out in a way that made a lot of sense for the book and for the characters and I admit to being in floods of tears by the end of the book. It’s a beautiful story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Picking Up The Pieces is the story of Nora, married to military man Gordy, who feel as though their marriage is on the brink. When Nora returns to England to care for her sister’s son whilst her sister is unwell, Nora realises just how much she’s missed out on in her life by not having children. The book also looks at Nora and Kiki’s early life and the experiences they had by having very distracted, neglectful parents.
The storyline of Kiki’s mental illness was approached with great sensitivity and I liked the way things were resolved in the storyline which reflected both how hard it can be to have a mental illness and see a path forward but didn’t feel as if it was too quick to be resolved in the story.
I thought the most genuine and heartfelt scene of the whole book was when Nora and Gordy talked and argued as they were on the brink of divorce. The dialogue seemed so real and I didn’t know which way they would go with their relationship. I did really feel that things worked out in a way that made a lot of sense for the book and for the characters and I admit to being in floods of tears by the end of the book. It’s a beautiful story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2022
Amanda Prowse is one of the authors I know when I pick up the book I’m going to have a good read. Her writing is eminently readable, very descriptive and has a way of conveying real emotion. This book is no exception. It’s a wonderful heartwarming story but with some very emotive drama based on rejection, lack of love, grief and the effect this can have on mental health. An enthralling read that I finished in two days despite being on holiday with a very packed schedule!
Briefly, sisters Nora and Kiki have never been close but when Nora gets a call asking her to return to the UK to look after her nephew Ted, as Kiki is in hospital, she is straight there. Army wife Nora has just been told by her husband they should consider a divorce and she has no experience with children so she is all at sixes and sevens! However, despite a few disasters she soon finds that, with the support of Kiki’s friends, she is able to provide Ted with the love and support he needs. But can she repair her marriage and her relationship with Kiki.
Despite all the sadness in the story it’s the resolution of the sadness and the ensuing happiness that is the overriding emotion I got from the book. As always the writer has a wonderful way of conveying emotion in words and you really feel for the characters all of whom are so well described I could see them as I read. A wonderful read and it was a perfect holiday read, I genuinely loved it.
Briefly, sisters Nora and Kiki have never been close but when Nora gets a call asking her to return to the UK to look after her nephew Ted, as Kiki is in hospital, she is straight there. Army wife Nora has just been told by her husband they should consider a divorce and she has no experience with children so she is all at sixes and sevens! However, despite a few disasters she soon finds that, with the support of Kiki’s friends, she is able to provide Ted with the love and support he needs. But can she repair her marriage and her relationship with Kiki.
Despite all the sadness in the story it’s the resolution of the sadness and the ensuing happiness that is the overriding emotion I got from the book. As always the writer has a wonderful way of conveying emotion in words and you really feel for the characters all of whom are so well described I could see them as I read. A wonderful read and it was a perfect holiday read, I genuinely loved it.
September 27, 2022
Another great read by Amanda, beautiful, sensitive and totally pulls at your heartstrings!
Childhood experiences past and present, mental health issues, marriage and relationship problems and the wonderful gift of friendship, community and family!
Nora and her sister Kiki are not particularly close due to having had very different childhood upbringings and memories, their adult lives couldn’t possibly be any different, Nora married to Gordy a military man is well travelled, comfortably off but not happy in her relationship and feels lonely! Kiki is a single mum to Ted surrounded by friends living paycheque to paycheque.
When Nora is unexpectedly called upon to look after her nephew Ted, realisation hits as she softens, embraces friends, reconnects with her sister, experiences the love of a child and ultimately rekindles her love for her husband as barriers are lowered and a new feeling of acceptance and happiness takes over!
Although sensitive mental health issues are involved overall you are left with a heartwarming uplifting read that I would highly recommend.
Thank you net galley for this early read.
Childhood experiences past and present, mental health issues, marriage and relationship problems and the wonderful gift of friendship, community and family!
Nora and her sister Kiki are not particularly close due to having had very different childhood upbringings and memories, their adult lives couldn’t possibly be any different, Nora married to Gordy a military man is well travelled, comfortably off but not happy in her relationship and feels lonely! Kiki is a single mum to Ted surrounded by friends living paycheque to paycheque.
When Nora is unexpectedly called upon to look after her nephew Ted, realisation hits as she softens, embraces friends, reconnects with her sister, experiences the love of a child and ultimately rekindles her love for her husband as barriers are lowered and a new feeling of acceptance and happiness takes over!
Although sensitive mental health issues are involved overall you are left with a heartwarming uplifting read that I would highly recommend.
Thank you net galley for this early read.
September 18, 2022
I couldn’t wait to get stuck into the latest Amanda prowse book and read this in one sitting as usual this author gets right to the heart of human emotion and also brings the topic of mental health out into the open with sensitivity and feeling. and reiterates the message that it’s ok to not be ok and no shame in asking for or needing help
This author has a way of writing about everyday experiences and real people in such a beautiful and heartfelt way and addresses topics and situations that lots of people are able to relate to and this book was no exception. It was also a story of rebuilding relationships and finding happiness and a way to find peace with the past and move forwards.
I read this in a day a couldn’t put it down and was like being on an emotional rollercoaster. I cried a lot and laughed at other times as there was also the odd bit of humour thrown in to break up the sadness.
Am already eagerly awaiting this authors next read.
This author has a way of writing about everyday experiences and real people in such a beautiful and heartfelt way and addresses topics and situations that lots of people are able to relate to and this book was no exception. It was also a story of rebuilding relationships and finding happiness and a way to find peace with the past and move forwards.
I read this in a day a couldn’t put it down and was like being on an emotional rollercoaster. I cried a lot and laughed at other times as there was also the odd bit of humour thrown in to break up the sadness.
Am already eagerly awaiting this authors next read.
September 21, 2022
Picking up the Pieces by Amanda Prowse
Another wonderful book by the author. She always manages to get to the very heart of what makes the human tick . All aspects of relationships are covered including the ones we experience with ourself.in this case mental health .
As Nora and her British Army officer husband, Gordy, pack up yet another home and leave the sun of Cyprus for the drizzle of England, she can’t shake a feeling of regret—at her failure to follow her own dreams, but also, if she’s honest, at having ended up an officer’s wife at all, drifting through a life of temporary homes and temporary relationships.
A great storyline which really pulls you in and is totally believable . I wanted life to turn out well for Nora.
Another wonderful book by the author. She always manages to get to the very heart of what makes the human tick . All aspects of relationships are covered including the ones we experience with ourself.in this case mental health .
As Nora and her British Army officer husband, Gordy, pack up yet another home and leave the sun of Cyprus for the drizzle of England, she can’t shake a feeling of regret—at her failure to follow her own dreams, but also, if she’s honest, at having ended up an officer’s wife at all, drifting through a life of temporary homes and temporary relationships.
A great storyline which really pulls you in and is totally believable . I wanted life to turn out well for Nora.
January 2, 2023
A delightful story. Nora Brightwell and her husband Lieutenant colonel officer Brightwell Gordy are heading back to Westbury Wiltshire from Cyprus. She get the call to say her sister Kiki is in hospital and she becomes legal guardian to her nephew Ted and starts to see herself in Teds eyes. Not wanting children of her own, she makes a bond with Ted who is his own character, and she makes friends that are always on hand for her she was never living in one place long enough to make friends. This book reflects on family situations and brings her and Kiki closer and also to her husband Gordy too.
This book was such a joy to read, that will pull at your heart strings more than once. loved it 5 stars.
This book was such a joy to read, that will pull at your heart strings more than once. loved it 5 stars.
September 21, 2022
Picking up the Pieces is a beautifully written book. Amanda Prowse takes a tragedy and turns it into the coming together of a family. I love how she also potrays how people can have an affect on other's lives even if they don't know it. I enjoyed seeing Nora and Kiki's perspectives of their childhood and how the same events can look very different to different people. I will be looking up more of Amanda Prowse's books.
September 25, 2022
Another 5 star book from Amanda, which I was privileged to read as an arc. A lesson to be learned about family ties and mental health. Highly recommend
November 10, 2023
I read this wonderful book quite a while ago but I fell behind on writing reviews, and am trying to get caught up now. Luckily this one stuck with me so I am able to remember it and be able to write about it. This author tends to write books that I do remember even long after I finish reading them. Her characters are always so REAL, are ones that you can either connect with, or at least are curious about enough that you want to get to know them more or want to read more about them. I felt like that with Nora. I am drawn to books about family relationships and Nora had her share of dysfunctional and difficult issues and circumstances since she was a child. Nora, not having much self confidence, and at a crossroads in her marriage and life, is a character who truly developed in many ways and became a stronger, more anchored person once she made the decision to leave one life behind and go to her sister. She was forced to make many decisions along the way, and it was hard not to feel emotional for her. The strong bonds of friendship were prevalent throughout this book, which made me feel so happy about because Nora truly needed that. It was great to see positivity in Nora’s life once again and see her change her life around. Very moving and heartwarming, though with triggers.
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