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All the Lost Pieces
Perfect for fans of Katherine Center and Kristan Higgins, All the Lost Pieces is a funny, warmhearted novel that explores the dynamics of family, friendship and falling in love, and all the ways we try to save ourselves.
Twenty-nine-year-old Nina Abrahams is not in a good place. She’s been fired from her restaurant manager job after she stands up to her bully of a boss, her motivational speaker mother is helping other people get their lives on track and ignoring the derailing of her daughter’s, and her best friend, Lucas Wilson, the guy she’s loved since she was eighteen, can’t seem to look beyond the girl in braces to the woman she is now.
When a new opportunity comes up, Nina decides it’s the perfect time to start over. The restaurant needs a reinvention and so does she. Unfortunately for Nina, the restaurant comes with hostile servers, a belligerent chef, and an owner averse to change.
But if Nina’s brave enough to take on the restaurant and tackle the people out to sabotage her, perhaps she can find the courage to tell Lucas how she really feels, even if it means risking the most important relationship in her life.
If you liked The Cheat Sheet and The Bodyguard, then you’ll love this feel-good romantic novel.
Twenty-nine-year-old Nina Abrahams is not in a good place. She’s been fired from her restaurant manager job after she stands up to her bully of a boss, her motivational speaker mother is helping other people get their lives on track and ignoring the derailing of her daughter’s, and her best friend, Lucas Wilson, the guy she’s loved since she was eighteen, can’t seem to look beyond the girl in braces to the woman she is now.
When a new opportunity comes up, Nina decides it’s the perfect time to start over. The restaurant needs a reinvention and so does she. Unfortunately for Nina, the restaurant comes with hostile servers, a belligerent chef, and an owner averse to change.
But if Nina’s brave enough to take on the restaurant and tackle the people out to sabotage her, perhaps she can find the courage to tell Lucas how she really feels, even if it means risking the most important relationship in her life.
If you liked The Cheat Sheet and The Bodyguard, then you’ll love this feel-good romantic novel.
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 1, 2023
267 people are currently reading
846 people want to read
About the author
Lara Martin
5 books64 followersLara Martin writes books about imperfect people living messy lives, falling in love, and fighting for their happily-ever-after. She’s lived in South Africa and Australia, and now calls a cozy village in England her home. She's a mom to two kids, an animal lover, and her champion of a husband is always the first reader of her novels.
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
She likes her book heroes with humor, muscles, stubble, and a wild side. When she’s not writing, she can be found haunting local coffee shops in search of the next story to make your heart race.
https://www.instagram.com/laramartina...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
February 2, 2025
4⭐
Genre ~ women's fiction
Setting ~ not sure, but I think in the UK
Publication date ~ February 1, 2023
Est page Count ~ 353 (33 chapters)
POV ~ single 3rd
Featuring ~ debut, characters in their late 20's/early 30's, secret crush, brother's best friend, best friend's sister, best friends to lovers, slow burn, no communication, no steamage, attempted r@pe
This is very much more of a personal growth women's fiction story and a slow burn on the romance front as it's not until the end.
Nina has just lost her job and is having difficulty finding a new one, until one day she sees the perfect job posting. The only problem is that it's in the suburbs an hour and a half away from the life she has in the city. I love that she took a leap and accepted it in an effort to start over. The qualms that come along with trying to get in a groove in a managerial position when the current employees are set in their ways was realistically written. There were many times she wanted to give up, but she persevered and came up with some great ideas to motivate the team and make them feel appreciated.
Nina has a wonderful, positive relationship with her brother, Ryan and his wife, Olivia. Not so much with her mother, but the growth throughout the story on their relationship was nice to see.
Nina's secret crush on Lucas began many years ago. While they're very close he is oblivious to her feelings. He needed to see what was right in front of him all on his own without any pushes. I am usually not a fan of lack of communication, but I can always see the reasoning when they're friends first because they don't want to rock the friendship boat, however I do feel like it's time wasted, too. I do wish he would have opened his gorgeous eyes a lot sooner though. I wouldn't mind a sequel of their budding relationship since we didn't get much of it at all. I could have went without the Tammy shenanigans, but I did appreciate Nina's effort to help her even if I, and everyone else, didn't agree with her.
Overall, a nice debut about family dynamics and friendships, and how personal growth can lead you to where you were always meant to be.
*Thanks to Lara Martin for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ women's fiction
Setting ~ not sure, but I think in the UK
Publication date ~ February 1, 2023
Est page Count ~ 353 (33 chapters)
POV ~ single 3rd
Featuring ~ debut, characters in their late 20's/early 30's, secret crush, brother's best friend, best friend's sister, best friends to lovers, slow burn, no communication, no steamage, attempted r@pe
This is very much more of a personal growth women's fiction story and a slow burn on the romance front as it's not until the end.
Nina has just lost her job and is having difficulty finding a new one, until one day she sees the perfect job posting. The only problem is that it's in the suburbs an hour and a half away from the life she has in the city. I love that she took a leap and accepted it in an effort to start over. The qualms that come along with trying to get in a groove in a managerial position when the current employees are set in their ways was realistically written. There were many times she wanted to give up, but she persevered and came up with some great ideas to motivate the team and make them feel appreciated.
Nina has a wonderful, positive relationship with her brother, Ryan and his wife, Olivia. Not so much with her mother, but the growth throughout the story on their relationship was nice to see.
Nina's secret crush on Lucas began many years ago. While they're very close he is oblivious to her feelings. He needed to see what was right in front of him all on his own without any pushes. I am usually not a fan of lack of communication, but I can always see the reasoning when they're friends first because they don't want to rock the friendship boat, however I do feel like it's time wasted, too. I do wish he would have opened his gorgeous eyes a lot sooner though. I wouldn't mind a sequel of their budding relationship since we didn't get much of it at all. I could have went without the Tammy shenanigans, but I did appreciate Nina's effort to help her even if I, and everyone else, didn't agree with her.
Overall, a nice debut about family dynamics and friendships, and how personal growth can lead you to where you were always meant to be.
*Thanks to Lara Martin for sending me a copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
April 28, 2023
I was given a copy of this book by the author for an honest review.
I'm sorry, I really tried to like it but I don't like false advertising... This book is NOT a love story. Please! This is a women's fiction or just general fiction.
Throughout the story, we follow Nina who is a restaurant manager. And she's great at what she does but 90% of the book is just about her life... Her relationship with her brother and sister in law, her mother, her friend, her career and then her ever present crush on her brother's best friend Lucas.
For a huge part of the book, we didn't even get Lucas on the page! And then, he started a relationship with another girl who he got pretty serious with. I didn't like where the story went at all. He made it very clear time and again that he was not interested in her.
Later, he said that he realised he loved her when they went to the charity gala but that same night had ended when he told Nina specifically that I won't go to a particular restaurant with you for dinner because I'm going to propose my to-be wife there, and you're not it! 😑
And then, after all the wait, they got together out of nowhere at 86% mark of the book, and broke up at 93% 😕
This book just wasn't for me and I really did not enjoy it, other than her time trying to bring up the restaurant she was working at.
I'm sorry, I really tried to like it but I don't like false advertising... This book is NOT a love story. Please! This is a women's fiction or just general fiction.
Throughout the story, we follow Nina who is a restaurant manager. And she's great at what she does but 90% of the book is just about her life... Her relationship with her brother and sister in law, her mother, her friend, her career and then her ever present crush on her brother's best friend Lucas.
For a huge part of the book, we didn't even get Lucas on the page! And then, he started a relationship with another girl who he got pretty serious with. I didn't like where the story went at all. He made it very clear time and again that he was not interested in her.
Later, he said that he realised he loved her when they went to the charity gala but that same night had ended when he told Nina specifically that I won't go to a particular restaurant with you for dinner because I'm going to propose my to-be wife there, and you're not it! 😑
And then, after all the wait, they got together out of nowhere at 86% mark of the book, and broke up at 93% 😕
This book just wasn't for me and I really did not enjoy it, other than her time trying to bring up the restaurant she was working at.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2023
Thank you so much to the author, who kindly reached out to me on Instagram and sent me a physical copy of her book! Forever grateful to receive these opportunities and so thankful for such kind souls! 💕
I loved this! Our MC works in the hospitality industry (I’m also a hospitality girlie so I very much relate!) and we follow her journey as she discovers who she is, who she wants to be with and what she wants her life to look like. There’s some really touching relationship development between the MC and her family during this book and it’s honestly beautiful to see them mending their relationships with each other.
I read this in one evening and I stayed up LAAAATE to finish it because I couldn’t put it down!! I would definitely recommend if you love a good Bridget Jones type chick lit! Defo an author I’ll be watching closely! 💕
I loved this! Our MC works in the hospitality industry (I’m also a hospitality girlie so I very much relate!) and we follow her journey as she discovers who she is, who she wants to be with and what she wants her life to look like. There’s some really touching relationship development between the MC and her family during this book and it’s honestly beautiful to see them mending their relationships with each other.
I read this in one evening and I stayed up LAAAATE to finish it because I couldn’t put it down!! I would definitely recommend if you love a good Bridget Jones type chick lit! Defo an author I’ll be watching closely! 💕
July 25, 2023
What a breath of fresh air this book was!
I absolutely adore Nina! Hands up for strong female characters!! I found myself cheering her on throughout the story. I loved that she knew what she wanted and went for it. Well, in most aspects of the story... hehe. Moreso in her career path.
The female relationships in this book are SO WELL WRITTEN! No two were alike and I really got a sense of each characters feelings. My favourite was Nina's relationship with her sister in law. So, so special!
My only complaint is that I would have liked more of Nina & Lucas's relationship. I was craving more of them together. Perhaps a second book? There was other relationships and storylines I would love to see more from as well.
My thanks to the author for this gifted copy. I look forward to reading what you write next!
I absolutely adore Nina! Hands up for strong female characters!! I found myself cheering her on throughout the story. I loved that she knew what she wanted and went for it. Well, in most aspects of the story... hehe. Moreso in her career path.
The female relationships in this book are SO WELL WRITTEN! No two were alike and I really got a sense of each characters feelings. My favourite was Nina's relationship with her sister in law. So, so special!
My only complaint is that I would have liked more of Nina & Lucas's relationship. I was craving more of them together. Perhaps a second book? There was other relationships and storylines I would love to see more from as well.
My thanks to the author for this gifted copy. I look forward to reading what you write next!
January 21, 2023
A deliciously decadent love story.
I loved this book. I could not put it down. I had to force myself to put it aside to get some sleep. I am obsessed with the whole story.
We meet Nina, she's adorable and chaotic and determined. She's having some bad luck in the job and romance department, but she has a gorgeous best friend who rescues her in a few different ways.
This book has a lot of family dynamics that feel so real and relatable. Mother/daughter issues, sibling connections, found family, all of it. I loved every single one of these characters and found them so realistic and relatable.
Tropes: clean romance, brothers best friend, slow burn, side character drug use, loss of parent (past event referred to)
Do yourself a favour and pick this gem up, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you to Lara Martin for providing me an ebook ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. I am thrilled with it and can't wait to read more of your books.
I loved this book. I could not put it down. I had to force myself to put it aside to get some sleep. I am obsessed with the whole story.
We meet Nina, she's adorable and chaotic and determined. She's having some bad luck in the job and romance department, but she has a gorgeous best friend who rescues her in a few different ways.
This book has a lot of family dynamics that feel so real and relatable. Mother/daughter issues, sibling connections, found family, all of it. I loved every single one of these characters and found them so realistic and relatable.
Tropes: clean romance, brothers best friend, slow burn, side character drug use, loss of parent (past event referred to)
Do yourself a favour and pick this gem up, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you to Lara Martin for providing me an ebook ARC copy in exchange for my honest review. I am thrilled with it and can't wait to read more of your books.
May 7, 2023
This story was a surprise. It is well crafted. I felt like the characters had depth, there were issues to resolve, and love to find.
Nina has a lot going for her - a supportive brother, good friends, and a love for the hospitality industry. Her mother is supportive but in her own way. I suppose that comes from being a motivational or inspirational speaker. But even they resolve their issues that have kept them apart and do not truly know one another. There is even her good friend Lucas whom she loves but doesn't say anything for fear of messing up the friendship. But we all know how that goes...unrequited love is hard to dismiss.
I liked that Nina has some issues to work through, from her job to friends and family. It is a time for her to grow and stretch herself, become the best person she can be, and follow her dreams.
There is romance in the story too, but it is very clean, and I appreciated that aspect. The crux of the story doesn't get lost in scenes between the characters. It is very much a G-rated book.
This was a fun book to read, and I will look for more books by this author. We give it 5 paws up.
Nina has a lot going for her - a supportive brother, good friends, and a love for the hospitality industry. Her mother is supportive but in her own way. I suppose that comes from being a motivational or inspirational speaker. But even they resolve their issues that have kept them apart and do not truly know one another. There is even her good friend Lucas whom she loves but doesn't say anything for fear of messing up the friendship. But we all know how that goes...unrequited love is hard to dismiss.
I liked that Nina has some issues to work through, from her job to friends and family. It is a time for her to grow and stretch herself, become the best person she can be, and follow her dreams.
There is romance in the story too, but it is very clean, and I appreciated that aspect. The crux of the story doesn't get lost in scenes between the characters. It is very much a G-rated book.
This was a fun book to read, and I will look for more books by this author. We give it 5 paws up.
September 23, 2023
Unapologetically outspoken, Nina Abrahams has just been fired from her job as restaurant manager. With her career now on the back burner, she should conceivably have more time for romance. But at the ripe old age of 29, Nina’s love life has been on a low boil for a lifetime. The reason? Her long simmering feelings for her best friend, Lucas.
Although they’ve known each other since they were kids, Lucas and Nina’s relationship never progressed past the platonic and Nina’s never been sure why. Maybe it’s the fact she’s also the sister of Lucas’s best buddy. Or maybe he’s just never thought of Nina in THAT way. Regardless of the reason, Nina has never been able to move past the what if scenario, carrying a torch for Lucas for over a decade.
Then Lucas starts seriously dating someone and his new relationship status gives Nina food for thought. As she moves out of her comfort zone professionally, she finds herself finally making some distance from Lucas, too. Will he finally take note of an attraction that’s been off the menu for so long, or at these two destined to be in a pickle forever?
All the Lost Pieces is a story about friendship as much as it is a story about romance. In fact, one might argue this book serves up the best recipe of the two. But there are other “secrets in the sauce”, including complicated family dynamics and fair weather friends. There’s also special care given to Nina’s career as a restaurant manager- @laramartinauthor taking time to whip up some side characters that give the story a little kick.
If you’re looking for a sweet romantic read that may otherwise not be on your radar, consider this tasty title, sure to whet your appetite for more. Thank you to author for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
Although they’ve known each other since they were kids, Lucas and Nina’s relationship never progressed past the platonic and Nina’s never been sure why. Maybe it’s the fact she’s also the sister of Lucas’s best buddy. Or maybe he’s just never thought of Nina in THAT way. Regardless of the reason, Nina has never been able to move past the what if scenario, carrying a torch for Lucas for over a decade.
Then Lucas starts seriously dating someone and his new relationship status gives Nina food for thought. As she moves out of her comfort zone professionally, she finds herself finally making some distance from Lucas, too. Will he finally take note of an attraction that’s been off the menu for so long, or at these two destined to be in a pickle forever?
All the Lost Pieces is a story about friendship as much as it is a story about romance. In fact, one might argue this book serves up the best recipe of the two. But there are other “secrets in the sauce”, including complicated family dynamics and fair weather friends. There’s also special care given to Nina’s career as a restaurant manager- @laramartinauthor taking time to whip up some side characters that give the story a little kick.
If you’re looking for a sweet romantic read that may otherwise not be on your radar, consider this tasty title, sure to whet your appetite for more. Thank you to author for a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review.
May 11, 2025
Writing is fantastic
But this is not a romance book
Doesn't even deserve the 1 star 🙄 but the overall rating is too high & misleading
The ARCs reviews are fake
SPOILER ALERT -- spoilers start here.....don't continue if you don't want spoilers
Focused more on her life......how she managed to turn it around as well as a flagging restaurant.
A few interactions here & there with the and reminiscing about the past
Hero 'notices' her for the FIRST TIME when she dresses up for a charity event while she loved him for 11 years.....then he meets a girl & is all ga-ga over her.....even says it's serious & she may be the one
He breaks up after a while
Then BOOM at 85% into the book.....he comes at the h's place and confesses & they are together.....we get a few paragraphs on what they do & where they go during their relationship (1-2 pages -- I'm being very generous here)
Together for a few weeks only before her friend puts a spoke & she chooses the friend over him
Few weeks later all is resolved & they are back together with a hint he will propose to her
I was waiting & waiting & waiting for the romance......but it went on & on about her shitty life, her mother & then the restaurant & so few snippets about the H & h interactions it doesn't even rate as a romance
We get more details on her relationship with her mother & how they clear all issues than with the H
I am so mad I wasted time reading this shit.....on a SUNDAY when there are lots of awesome books out there that I could have chosen.......arrrgghhh!!!!!
But this is not a romance book
Doesn't even deserve the 1 star 🙄 but the overall rating is too high & misleading
The ARCs reviews are fake
SPOILER ALERT -- spoilers start here.....don't continue if you don't want spoilers
Focused more on her life......how she managed to turn it around as well as a flagging restaurant.
A few interactions here & there with the and reminiscing about the past
Hero 'notices' her for the FIRST TIME when she dresses up for a charity event while she loved him for 11 years.....then he meets a girl & is all ga-ga over her.....even says it's serious & she may be the one
He breaks up after a while
Then BOOM at 85% into the book.....he comes at the h's place and confesses & they are together.....we get a few paragraphs on what they do & where they go during their relationship (1-2 pages -- I'm being very generous here)
Together for a few weeks only before her friend puts a spoke & she chooses the friend over him
Few weeks later all is resolved & they are back together with a hint he will propose to her
I was waiting & waiting & waiting for the romance......but it went on & on about her shitty life, her mother & then the restaurant & so few snippets about the H & h interactions it doesn't even rate as a romance
We get more details on her relationship with her mother & how they clear all issues than with the H
I am so mad I wasted time reading this shit.....on a SUNDAY when there are lots of awesome books out there that I could have chosen.......arrrgghhh!!!!!
September 4, 2023
When I started reading this, I was expecting a lighthearted romcom, but All the Lost Pieces reminded me more of a Paige Toon novel. Yes, there was a love story, but this read more like women’s fiction, with MC Nina navigating tough choices about jobs and friendships.
My only critique is that the last section seemed to drag, but then the ending was pretty abrupt. Otherwise, I found this to be a thoughtfully written novel, and I’m honored that author Lara Martin reached out and asked me to read it!
My only critique is that the last section seemed to drag, but then the ending was pretty abrupt. Otherwise, I found this to be a thoughtfully written novel, and I’m honored that author Lara Martin reached out and asked me to read it!
January 24, 2023
Never have I read a book so sweet, wholesome, and innocent as All the Lost Pieces. The definition of a clean romance, this is probably the most G-rated book I have ever encountered that wasn’t YA. She even uses replacement words for profanity or cuts off the known sentiment just in time. I mention this because it goes to show that you can still create an intriguing, engaging, and highly enticing romance without that the “bang and sizzle” (although one comment in the book does come rather close!)
On the surface, Nina Abrahams’s life seems simple: work as a Restaurant Manager, appease the customers, and help the restaurant reach its full potential. While the dream of owning her own restaurant one day is never far from her mind, Nina is happy with the job she always longed to possess. The problem is, Nina has a tendency to fight (and lose) battles at work when trying to keep fairness and justice for those she manages. After receiving a “time to grow up” reprimand from her best friend Lucas after being fired (again), Nina is determined to prove herself in more ways than one. Avoiding criticism from her mother and overprotection from her brother, Nina sets out to land the perfect job that will finally earn the respect of her family. While solving the career problem seems attainable, Nina is still left with a dilemma that has been plaguing her for 11 years, her feelings for Lucas. Using an upcoming event to make him see her as the woman she is once and for all, Nina finds herself confirming her greatest fear, Lucas has never seen here as anything more than a friend and never will. With that final hope of light snuffed out, Nina decides it’s time to finally move on. As fate would have it, an opportunity presents itself that would allow Nina to do just that – putting distance between her bad decisions, crushed dreams, and broken heart.
What I liked about it: Nina is my kind of people and her relationship with her brother Ryan is one to be admired. I also loved the friendships she built with Lucas and Olivia. Their drink challenges and ribbing on each other were some of the best moments. Her inner monologue though was the icing on the cake, especially when she interacted with her mother.
What it took for Nina to finally take off the blinders hurt my heart. Once she saw the repercussions of her decisions, it was inspiring to witness her transformation. She stepped into her own and started becoming the woman she aspired to be, moving forward from where she was always stuck in her past, beyond the limitations she had set for herself, breaking away from toxic relationships, and buckling down instead of trying to escape.
As always, I try to do my due diligence when I come across content that may be triggering. While Lara does not go into depth on most of these topics, she does touch upon sexual harassment, child molestation, attempted date rape, loss of a parent, grief, Alzheimer’s, and drug use/abuse.
If you are looking for a clean, sweet, wholesome romantic comedy that makes to believe in love, friendship, and family, All the Lost Pieces is a must read. Lara has definitely found a fan in me and I can’t wait to read her next book!
On the surface, Nina Abrahams’s life seems simple: work as a Restaurant Manager, appease the customers, and help the restaurant reach its full potential. While the dream of owning her own restaurant one day is never far from her mind, Nina is happy with the job she always longed to possess. The problem is, Nina has a tendency to fight (and lose) battles at work when trying to keep fairness and justice for those she manages. After receiving a “time to grow up” reprimand from her best friend Lucas after being fired (again), Nina is determined to prove herself in more ways than one. Avoiding criticism from her mother and overprotection from her brother, Nina sets out to land the perfect job that will finally earn the respect of her family. While solving the career problem seems attainable, Nina is still left with a dilemma that has been plaguing her for 11 years, her feelings for Lucas. Using an upcoming event to make him see her as the woman she is once and for all, Nina finds herself confirming her greatest fear, Lucas has never seen here as anything more than a friend and never will. With that final hope of light snuffed out, Nina decides it’s time to finally move on. As fate would have it, an opportunity presents itself that would allow Nina to do just that – putting distance between her bad decisions, crushed dreams, and broken heart.
What I liked about it: Nina is my kind of people and her relationship with her brother Ryan is one to be admired. I also loved the friendships she built with Lucas and Olivia. Their drink challenges and ribbing on each other were some of the best moments. Her inner monologue though was the icing on the cake, especially when she interacted with her mother.
What it took for Nina to finally take off the blinders hurt my heart. Once she saw the repercussions of her decisions, it was inspiring to witness her transformation. She stepped into her own and started becoming the woman she aspired to be, moving forward from where she was always stuck in her past, beyond the limitations she had set for herself, breaking away from toxic relationships, and buckling down instead of trying to escape.
As always, I try to do my due diligence when I come across content that may be triggering. While Lara does not go into depth on most of these topics, she does touch upon sexual harassment, child molestation, attempted date rape, loss of a parent, grief, Alzheimer’s, and drug use/abuse.
If you are looking for a clean, sweet, wholesome romantic comedy that makes to believe in love, friendship, and family, All the Lost Pieces is a must read. Lara has definitely found a fan in me and I can’t wait to read her next book!
October 8, 2023
Nina Abrahams has just been fired from her restaurant manager job after standing up to her bully of a boss, her mother is a motivational speaker and seems to be helping everyone else other than Nina, and her best friend, Lucas Wilson, the guy she’s loved since she was eighteen, has placed her firmly in the friend-zone..
When a new opportunity comes up, Nina decides it’s exactly what she needs. Both she and the restaurant need a fresh start. Unfortunately, starting fresh isn’t as easy as it sounds..
But if Nina’s able to take on the challenges of the restaurant, maybe she can find the courage to tell Lucas how she really feels, even if it means risking losing her best friend.
My thoughts:
This was a really sweet contemporary romance that really focused on personal growth and it perfect for those new to the genre as the romance part is minimal.
I loved watching Nina start to thrive once she realized her self-worth and enjoyed watching her progress at the restaurant.
There was a lot of relationship building in the book and I really enjoyed that aspect.
Thank you to the author for the digital copy. My review is honest and voluntary.
When a new opportunity comes up, Nina decides it’s exactly what she needs. Both she and the restaurant need a fresh start. Unfortunately, starting fresh isn’t as easy as it sounds..
But if Nina’s able to take on the challenges of the restaurant, maybe she can find the courage to tell Lucas how she really feels, even if it means risking losing her best friend.
My thoughts:
This was a really sweet contemporary romance that really focused on personal growth and it perfect for those new to the genre as the romance part is minimal.
I loved watching Nina start to thrive once she realized her self-worth and enjoyed watching her progress at the restaurant.
There was a lot of relationship building in the book and I really enjoyed that aspect.
Thank you to the author for the digital copy. My review is honest and voluntary.
January 4, 2024
I was so tardy reading this book, but I'm so glad I finally dove in.
This is a wonderful love story of unrequited love.
What happens if you are in love with your best friend but he only thinks of you as a sister? Well that's what Nina has endured for 11, yes ELEVEN, years. She's been in love with her brother's BFF, Lucas, who became her BFF by extension.
The characters are fantastic, including Nina's brother Ryan, his wife Olivia and so many others. I also loved the backdrop of the restaurant industry.
I loved the pacing of the first 80% of the book (or more), but the ending seemed a bit rushed, and I would have liked a more consistent pace to fully develop the characters and show their growth and development.
This is a wonderful love story of unrequited love.
What happens if you are in love with your best friend but he only thinks of you as a sister? Well that's what Nina has endured for 11, yes ELEVEN, years. She's been in love with her brother's BFF, Lucas, who became her BFF by extension.
The characters are fantastic, including Nina's brother Ryan, his wife Olivia and so many others. I also loved the backdrop of the restaurant industry.
I loved the pacing of the first 80% of the book (or more), but the ending seemed a bit rushed, and I would have liked a more consistent pace to fully develop the characters and show their growth and development.
September 27, 2023
This cover is just 😍
And with the cover comes a wonderful story with a wondering MC. What happens when you find yourself without a job and a scary new experience?
Well you better read this book! It’s sweet, its deep, it’s all you want in a contemporary romance.
And with the cover comes a wonderful story with a wondering MC. What happens when you find yourself without a job and a scary new experience?
Well you better read this book! It’s sweet, its deep, it’s all you want in a contemporary romance.
November 7, 2023
RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received an email from this author (Lara Martin) in exchange for my honest review.
This was a sweet, friends to lovers romance that I really enjoyed, especially after reading so many thrillers and dark academia last month. There's no spicy content; just a sweet story of Nina and Lucas that have been friends for a long time.
Thank you, Lara, for gifting me a copy of this book!
Happy Reading!
I received an email from this author (Lara Martin) in exchange for my honest review.
This was a sweet, friends to lovers romance that I really enjoyed, especially after reading so many thrillers and dark academia last month. There's no spicy content; just a sweet story of Nina and Lucas that have been friends for a long time.
Thank you, Lara, for gifting me a copy of this book!
Happy Reading!
April 3, 2023
Romantic comedies are not known for the depth in their storylines, but Lara Martin is changing that stereotype, starting with 'All the Lost Pieces.' The plot is generous with relatable dilemmas that go beyond the lovable protagonist Nina Abraham's aching heart. Martin delves into the arenas of career, family and friendship in a way that encourages the reader's investment and empathy. She does this artfully, so that when the romantic storyline returns it's exactly at the right time you need your fix and you're hungry for an update. Lara Martin's debut novel is perfect for the teenager waddling through the waters of identity and matters of the heart for the first time, and for the adult reader who enjoys the warm embrace of nostalgia. I highly recommend All the Lost Pieces!
November 3, 2023
I received a copy of All The Lost Pieces awhile back. Wow! I cannot believe that it took me so long to read this lovely book!
Nina is in Restaurant Management and is recently fired for standing up for her beliefs when the boss is shady/breaking the law. Lucas owns his own company providing security to the rich and famous. He also happens to be one of Nina's closest friends…one that she has been in love with for over 10 years. They spend a lot of time together and know everything about each other…except their feelings for each other.
I loved Lucas and Nina together! Their banter had me laughing. It was so obvious that the feelings were there…Lucas was so blind to not see them! My favorite part of this book was seeing Nina's growth as a character. Putting herself first, making the changes she needed to for a successful professional/personal life. It was refreshing!
I read this book in less than a day and felt as though I was on an emotional roller coaster! I was cheering for them from the start but I also was so frustrated (mostly with Lucas) for not seeing what was right in front of their faces. The lack of communication was annoying. Don't even get me started about Nina's choices when it came to Tammy!
I really wish that we saw more of the relationship between Lucas and Nina. And while I loved the ending, I really would have liked to see an epilogue going into a little more detail. The side characters at the restaurant were great (except Camille). I would be interested in hearing more of their stories…maybe get a little continuation of the Nina & Lucas story.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞…
Childhood Friends
Brothers Best Friend
Slow Burn
Lack of communication
Clean Romance
Happily Ever After
CW: Family Drama, Loss of a Parent (past), Toxic Friendship with drug abuse.
Thank you to @laramartinauthor for the gifted copy of this book for my honest review!
Nina is in Restaurant Management and is recently fired for standing up for her beliefs when the boss is shady/breaking the law. Lucas owns his own company providing security to the rich and famous. He also happens to be one of Nina's closest friends…one that she has been in love with for over 10 years. They spend a lot of time together and know everything about each other…except their feelings for each other.
I loved Lucas and Nina together! Their banter had me laughing. It was so obvious that the feelings were there…Lucas was so blind to not see them! My favorite part of this book was seeing Nina's growth as a character. Putting herself first, making the changes she needed to for a successful professional/personal life. It was refreshing!
I read this book in less than a day and felt as though I was on an emotional roller coaster! I was cheering for them from the start but I also was so frustrated (mostly with Lucas) for not seeing what was right in front of their faces. The lack of communication was annoying. Don't even get me started about Nina's choices when it came to Tammy!
I really wish that we saw more of the relationship between Lucas and Nina. And while I loved the ending, I really would have liked to see an epilogue going into a little more detail. The side characters at the restaurant were great (except Camille). I would be interested in hearing more of their stories…maybe get a little continuation of the Nina & Lucas story.
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞…
Childhood Friends
Brothers Best Friend
Slow Burn
Lack of communication
Clean Romance
Happily Ever After
CW: Family Drama, Loss of a Parent (past), Toxic Friendship with drug abuse.
Thank you to @laramartinauthor for the gifted copy of this book for my honest review!
August 4, 2023
ALL THE LOST PIECES synopsis on Goodreads indicates that this book is perfect for those who love the writing of Katherine Center and Kristan Higgins; and while I have read only one book by Higgins, I can attest that this is perfect for those who love Center's writing!
Nina Abrahams is not in a good place; she's been fired from her restaurant manager job after standing up to the owner who bullies his staff. When a new opportunity arises where Nina can reinvent a restaurant, she decides it's the perfect way to start over. The downside is that the staff are hostile and the owner is averse to change.
ALL THE LOST PIECES reads like a breath of fresh air. I was so quickly pulled into the story and the characters with Lara's crisp and clear writing style. I fell in love with Nina's character off the cuff. She's a big helper of the underdog and I loved that about her, even when it puts her own journey in jeopardy. I truly enjoyed following along with her character and seeing her growth occur, for herself and within her relationships, personal and professional.
Lara writes relationships between characters so well, each feeling authentic and unique. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Nina and her sister in law!
I have become a huge fan of the friends to lovers trope so this coupling was right up my alley. I loved Lucas' character, he's so protective but not overbearing. He's also really kind, supportive, and funny. I enjoyed the chemistry that sparks up between the two friends and enjoyed that the spice was kept to a minimum and off page.
I loved the overall plot of reinventing a restaurant to both empower the current staff as well as curate more clientele. It was an interesting experience and I loved how thoughtfully and tactfully Nina went about it, navigating the ideas and changes so neatly.
I will absolutely be keeping my eye out for more of Lara's work in the future!
Many thanks to the author, Lara Martin, for reaching out to me and offering me a copy of her book to read in exchange for an honest review!
Nina Abrahams is not in a good place; she's been fired from her restaurant manager job after standing up to the owner who bullies his staff. When a new opportunity arises where Nina can reinvent a restaurant, she decides it's the perfect way to start over. The downside is that the staff are hostile and the owner is averse to change.
ALL THE LOST PIECES reads like a breath of fresh air. I was so quickly pulled into the story and the characters with Lara's crisp and clear writing style. I fell in love with Nina's character off the cuff. She's a big helper of the underdog and I loved that about her, even when it puts her own journey in jeopardy. I truly enjoyed following along with her character and seeing her growth occur, for herself and within her relationships, personal and professional.
Lara writes relationships between characters so well, each feeling authentic and unique. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Nina and her sister in law!
I have become a huge fan of the friends to lovers trope so this coupling was right up my alley. I loved Lucas' character, he's so protective but not overbearing. He's also really kind, supportive, and funny. I enjoyed the chemistry that sparks up between the two friends and enjoyed that the spice was kept to a minimum and off page.
I loved the overall plot of reinventing a restaurant to both empower the current staff as well as curate more clientele. It was an interesting experience and I loved how thoughtfully and tactfully Nina went about it, navigating the ideas and changes so neatly.
I will absolutely be keeping my eye out for more of Lara's work in the future!
Many thanks to the author, Lara Martin, for reaching out to me and offering me a copy of her book to read in exchange for an honest review!
September 25, 2023
First off, thank you so much to the author for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review! This has become my favorite part of bookstagram- getting early copies of books and helping authors gain exposure!
I really enjoyed this book. I always love a main character that is relatable and lovable, and this one was. I really enjoyed the family aspect of this book. All the of the relationships between them were so raw and real. I would venture to say for me this book was more of fiction than a romance. I really enjoy a good story about family connections!
I loved that this story was light hearted and made you laugh at times, while also going really deep. The author contrasted this really well in my opinion! I truly enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read more from this author.
I really enjoyed this book. I always love a main character that is relatable and lovable, and this one was. I really enjoyed the family aspect of this book. All the of the relationships between them were so raw and real. I would venture to say for me this book was more of fiction than a romance. I really enjoy a good story about family connections!
I loved that this story was light hearted and made you laugh at times, while also going really deep. The author contrasted this really well in my opinion! I truly enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read more from this author.
October 8, 2023
3.5 stars
Nina Abrahams needs to start over. She’s been fired from her restaurant manager job, she’s been in love with her best friend, Lucas, since she was 18 but can’t seem to get past the friend zone, and her mother is too busy with her motivational speaking to be there for her daughter. A job opportunity at a restaurant out in a small suburb pops up and Nina decides to take it for a fresh start.
I really enjoyed the restaurant aspect of this book and Nina’s job in hospitality. It was interesting. I’m always down for a book about restaurants/cooking and this one brought something fresh with Nina’s manager position and seeing how it works to run a restaurant.
I went into this book thinking it would be more of a romance and it wasn’t much of one. And once it turned into one it ended so abruptly right afterwards. 😵💫 So it was hard for me to take the relationship seriously at all and I wasn’t drawn to Lucas.
Overall, though, this was a fun read seeing Nina find herself and I found her job so interesting!
Thank you to the author for the gifted digital copy of this book!
Nina Abrahams needs to start over. She’s been fired from her restaurant manager job, she’s been in love with her best friend, Lucas, since she was 18 but can’t seem to get past the friend zone, and her mother is too busy with her motivational speaking to be there for her daughter. A job opportunity at a restaurant out in a small suburb pops up and Nina decides to take it for a fresh start.
I really enjoyed the restaurant aspect of this book and Nina’s job in hospitality. It was interesting. I’m always down for a book about restaurants/cooking and this one brought something fresh with Nina’s manager position and seeing how it works to run a restaurant.
I went into this book thinking it would be more of a romance and it wasn’t much of one. And once it turned into one it ended so abruptly right afterwards. 😵💫 So it was hard for me to take the relationship seriously at all and I wasn’t drawn to Lucas.
Overall, though, this was a fun read seeing Nina find herself and I found her job so interesting!
Thank you to the author for the gifted digital copy of this book!
October 4, 2023
Nothing like a good friends to lovers trope! I really enjoyed how cute this was. It was such a good slow burn. I loved that it revolves around a restaurant setting as well, so fun! I really enjoyed this one.
January 22, 2023
I loved seeing that no matter how many times her mom belittles her she stays strong and goes after what she wants. Not only is she strong, funny but Nina never gives up on what she believes in, herself. This is a first I have read from Lara Martin and have to say loved her direction in this book. We have a family, by all means dysfunctional yet in many ways they are there for Nina. Then Lara has Lucas in this book, who yes may seem blind when it comes to love but in the end he is there when it counts. All in all my heart went to Nina for being tough in this book and proving to her mother she has what it takes a fighter all the way. We see a woman who wants to finally get her mother's approval in her life and a man who makes her crazy. Nina's life definitely not boring but actually exciting to see how she will overcome from her world turning upside down at every turn. One thing for sure this is not your typical romance. This is not the romance story where boy meets girl and bam love is there but instead it is more of a woman's self discovery in her life and what she is capable of doing. Loved it.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
November 1, 2023
I really enjoyed this debut book from Lara Martin! All the Lost Pieces is a women’s fiction with a strong female lead discovering what she wants and putting the pieces of her life back together. It was very well written and easy to read. It gave me Bridget Jones’s Diary vibes and I just loved it!
The book starts with Nina Abrahams being fired from her restaurant manager job. She has been dealing with a lot; a boss who was a bully, a mom who doesn’t seem to understand her and on top of that she has been in love with her best friend Lucas for forever,but he can’t seem to see her as more than a friend. She knows she needs a change but is not sure what, until she stumbles across a new opportunity; one that requires her to make a move and essentially start over.
Nina is such a great MC and her story held my attention from beginning to end. I love how the book followed her journey from being fired from her job and having some toxic relationships in her life to discovering what she really wants and truly flourishing. She found the things she thought would define success in her life were not what would make her happy after all and throughout the story she is discovering what that is. I love how as she is reinventing the restaurant, she is reinventing herself at the same time. The employees are hostile to her in the beginning but as she learns what makes them feel alive and helps them take ownership in the restaurant with her they start to accept and love her. It was so beautiful!
While the main focus of this story is Nina's growth, the slow burn romance with Lucas added to the enjoyment of this book for me. They had such fun, witty banter together as friends and some great chemistry as a couple. I would have loved more on page time with them once they got together but again that wasn’t the main focus of the story. I also really enjoyed the bond Nina has with her brother and her sister in law and the three of them plus Lucas had some very funny scenes together that made me laugh out loud.
Favorite Moments:
Lucas sending Nina pizza
Lucas and Nina going to the gala
Drink dares
Nina and Ryan's brother/sister relationship
Lucas taking care of sick Nina
Ano making Nina soup
The staff of Soul Fare accepting Nina
Content Awareness - drug use of a side character, attempted date assault, loss of a parent. None of this happens on page, it is just talked about in the story as things that are happening or have happened in the past.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 27, 2023
Heartwarming and Funny - Characters that stay with you after the last page
I read this book back in the spring/early summer & still to this day think about Nina and Lucas - characters that stay with you long after the last page really are my favourite! I know without a doubt that Phishing for Love is going to be another hit!
This heart warming romance took me by surprise by how hooked I became. From page one I was invested in Nina's life, rooting for her to find happiness. I loved the growth we see her go through & found her so easy to relate to.
We join Nina as she loses her restaurant job, whilst losing a job is a wrench, especially when she's already in a bad place...it's soon clear that this might actually be a lucky escape to leave behind her bully of a boss. An opportunity arises that might just help to clear up more than one aspect of her life & fearing that she might be otherwise stuck Nina takes the leap to not only start a new job, but also to move home.
But the new restaurant, whilst posing the opportunity for reinvention & refresh (for her and the restaurant) comes with it's own challenges including an owner resistant to change, servers who are anything but welcoming & even a good dose of sabotage!
Add to this her family dynamics including a motivational speaker mother who can't seem to understand her daughter's life, a best friend who Nina has been in love with since high school...& a toxic friendship with a whole heap of baggage.
No spoilers here, but let's just say Nina has what it takes to turn not just her life around, there's plenty of rip your heart out moments, plenty of angst & plenty of laughs!
The romance aspect of the story is a real slow burn friends to lovers, the perfect combination I find. It felt real, it felt genuine & you find yourself just seeking that happy ending.
Lara has created the perfect characters, a delightful story line of hope, family and what friendship really means. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a feel good romance with characters who become your friends.
I read this book back in the spring/early summer & still to this day think about Nina and Lucas - characters that stay with you long after the last page really are my favourite! I know without a doubt that Phishing for Love is going to be another hit!
This heart warming romance took me by surprise by how hooked I became. From page one I was invested in Nina's life, rooting for her to find happiness. I loved the growth we see her go through & found her so easy to relate to.
We join Nina as she loses her restaurant job, whilst losing a job is a wrench, especially when she's already in a bad place...it's soon clear that this might actually be a lucky escape to leave behind her bully of a boss. An opportunity arises that might just help to clear up more than one aspect of her life & fearing that she might be otherwise stuck Nina takes the leap to not only start a new job, but also to move home.
But the new restaurant, whilst posing the opportunity for reinvention & refresh (for her and the restaurant) comes with it's own challenges including an owner resistant to change, servers who are anything but welcoming & even a good dose of sabotage!
Add to this her family dynamics including a motivational speaker mother who can't seem to understand her daughter's life, a best friend who Nina has been in love with since high school...& a toxic friendship with a whole heap of baggage.
No spoilers here, but let's just say Nina has what it takes to turn not just her life around, there's plenty of rip your heart out moments, plenty of angst & plenty of laughs!
The romance aspect of the story is a real slow burn friends to lovers, the perfect combination I find. It felt real, it felt genuine & you find yourself just seeking that happy ending.
Lara has created the perfect characters, a delightful story line of hope, family and what friendship really means. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a feel good romance with characters who become your friends.
August 17, 2023
First off, I’d like to thank author Lara Martin for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! I’m having so much fun connecting with authors on this platform. What an amazing way to find new favorite reads!
All the Lost Pieces tells the story of Nina. She’s hit a bit of a rough patch after being fired from her job for standing up to her terrible boss. She’s rethinking what she wants from her career, dealing with a critical (and kind of famous) mother, and trying her best to fall out of love with her brother’s best friend. She’s loved Lucas since she was 18, but he’s never given her any indication that her feelings are reciprocated.
There are just so many layers to this story! I loved Nina’s journey in self-discovery. As a 30-ish year old woman myself, her character really resonated with me. We’re all just out here trying to figure out what we need and want from life! I loved all the familial relationships in this book, but especially Nina’s relationship with her brother and his wife. I think I expected more of a romance story based on the synopsis, but I did appreciate the VERY slow burn with Lucas as a plot line throughout. I NEEEEED an epilogue though from the way it all left off! 😂
Overall, I really enjoyed this one! I think comparing it to Katherine Center’s writing style is pretty spot on (as stated in the blurb). It was sweet, funny, and heartwarming. I was definitely left with a smile on my face!
I also adore the cover of this book. How pretty! 😍
All the Lost Pieces tells the story of Nina. She’s hit a bit of a rough patch after being fired from her job for standing up to her terrible boss. She’s rethinking what she wants from her career, dealing with a critical (and kind of famous) mother, and trying her best to fall out of love with her brother’s best friend. She’s loved Lucas since she was 18, but he’s never given her any indication that her feelings are reciprocated.
There are just so many layers to this story! I loved Nina’s journey in self-discovery. As a 30-ish year old woman myself, her character really resonated with me. We’re all just out here trying to figure out what we need and want from life! I loved all the familial relationships in this book, but especially Nina’s relationship with her brother and his wife. I think I expected more of a romance story based on the synopsis, but I did appreciate the VERY slow burn with Lucas as a plot line throughout. I NEEEEED an epilogue though from the way it all left off! 😂
Overall, I really enjoyed this one! I think comparing it to Katherine Center’s writing style is pretty spot on (as stated in the blurb). It was sweet, funny, and heartwarming. I was definitely left with a smile on my face!
I also adore the cover of this book. How pretty! 😍
May 26, 2023
"You’re fearless when you’re someone else’s champion, my friend, but too mouse quiet when it comes to advocating for yourself"
Even though this quote was from a not so favourite person from the book, this quote fits perfectly for our heroine, Nina.
'All the lost pieces' is not your usual rom-com revolving around the romance. It's more about friends and family and Nina trying to see where she actually fits and doing something she loves.
She has a crush on her brother's best friend but she's friendzoned!
I liked how she sorted the issues and waited for a good job and when she finally got, she did her best!
I loved how everyone turned out in her restaurant even though they didn't like her at all in the beginning. The relationship arc with the coworkers was nice to read. I'd love to go there and see the makeover she did and also would love to have Frankie's coffee!!!
Lucas was amazing! He was always there for Nina.
My hopeless romantic heart wanted more scenes between them after their relationship bloomed or before that!
Loved the gang( Ryan & Olivia) and their meet-ups! Also the dares the siblings had!
I didn't like her mom and friend but I'm glad the relationship with her mom is sorted out and how she handled Nina in the end.
Nina is your next door lady and her life is something you can relate to easily. She's a crush, job issues, friends and family, coworkers turned friends who would support her! Such a sweet and feel good story.
Even though this quote was from a not so favourite person from the book, this quote fits perfectly for our heroine, Nina.
'All the lost pieces' is not your usual rom-com revolving around the romance. It's more about friends and family and Nina trying to see where she actually fits and doing something she loves.
She has a crush on her brother's best friend but she's friendzoned!
I liked how she sorted the issues and waited for a good job and when she finally got, she did her best!
I loved how everyone turned out in her restaurant even though they didn't like her at all in the beginning. The relationship arc with the coworkers was nice to read. I'd love to go there and see the makeover she did and also would love to have Frankie's coffee!!!
Lucas was amazing! He was always there for Nina.
My hopeless romantic heart wanted more scenes between them after their relationship bloomed or before that!
Loved the gang( Ryan & Olivia) and their meet-ups! Also the dares the siblings had!
I didn't like her mom and friend but I'm glad the relationship with her mom is sorted out and how she handled Nina in the end.
Nina is your next door lady and her life is something you can relate to easily. She's a crush, job issues, friends and family, coworkers turned friends who would support her! Such a sweet and feel good story.
July 1, 2023
All The Lost Pieces is an adorable romantic comedy that I enjoyed on so many levels! The tension between the main characters, the meddling between side characters, the laugh out loud moments, and the deeper topics addressed - all of these pieces worked together so well to create a great story!
Nina is a restaurant manager who is looking at a potential career shift. Lucas is a bodyguard (don’t let him hear you call him that, though!) and is the main person tying Nina to the city. They’ve known each other for years, the last decade of which Nina has spent concealing her feelings for Lucas.
Both of the main characters really hooked me. I found Nina to be relatable, someone who is going through a phase of transition in her life, and you can’t help but actively root for her. Lucas, well, he’s just a dream boat, plain and simple!
Okay, he’s got more depth than that (handsome, caring, protective, and a slew of all the other best qualities!).
And those meddling side characters! Whether their intentions were good or bad, I loved the extra drama and deep dynamic they added.
This is a slow burn, and experiencing the tension grow between Nina and Lucas grow throughout the story worked SO WELL. I’m a sucker for a good first kiss, and this book DELIVERED!
Also, the ending (last paragraph of the book) I thought was pure PERFECTION!
Make sure to check the author’s content warnings for a fully comprehensive list.
Nina is a restaurant manager who is looking at a potential career shift. Lucas is a bodyguard (don’t let him hear you call him that, though!) and is the main person tying Nina to the city. They’ve known each other for years, the last decade of which Nina has spent concealing her feelings for Lucas.
Both of the main characters really hooked me. I found Nina to be relatable, someone who is going through a phase of transition in her life, and you can’t help but actively root for her. Lucas, well, he’s just a dream boat, plain and simple!
Okay, he’s got more depth than that (handsome, caring, protective, and a slew of all the other best qualities!).
And those meddling side characters! Whether their intentions were good or bad, I loved the extra drama and deep dynamic they added.
This is a slow burn, and experiencing the tension grow between Nina and Lucas grow throughout the story worked SO WELL. I’m a sucker for a good first kiss, and this book DELIVERED!
Also, the ending (last paragraph of the book) I thought was pure PERFECTION!
Make sure to check the author’s content warnings for a fully comprehensive list.
October 3, 2023
All The Lost Pieces
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚 Fiction (with a small side of romance)
🎶 Christmas Lights - Zach Seabaugh
One sentence synopsis:
Tired of her life not going the way she wants in her career and love life, Nina decides to take an opportunity out of her comfort zone.
My review:
This was so stinking cute. It’s a very good light hearted, with a few sprinkles of heavy stuff that’s extremely easy to read. A great example of a wholesome friends to lovers trope and also one where the main character finds herself along the way too.
It’s described as a rom-com similar to Sarah Adams and Katherine Center. And while I agree with that on some parts (mainly it’s easy readability, clean romance, and lighthearted story), I do think this book leans more contemporary fiction than straight romance.
Don’t get me wrong. There is some cute romantic elements in here, but that’s definitely not the focus. And to be honest, I think my one big complaint is that I wanted more of the romance! Give me more romance (less food service nitty gritty) and for the love of god, give me an epilogue!!
Honestly though, if the worst thing I can say about a book is that I wanted more then that’s a solid book in my opinion.
I’d definitely recommend this one to anyone who likes a good story that’s not going to drag you down at all.
✨ebook was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much @laramartinauthor! This was just what I needed!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚 Fiction (with a small side of romance)
🎶 Christmas Lights - Zach Seabaugh
One sentence synopsis:
Tired of her life not going the way she wants in her career and love life, Nina decides to take an opportunity out of her comfort zone.
My review:
This was so stinking cute. It’s a very good light hearted, with a few sprinkles of heavy stuff that’s extremely easy to read. A great example of a wholesome friends to lovers trope and also one where the main character finds herself along the way too.
It’s described as a rom-com similar to Sarah Adams and Katherine Center. And while I agree with that on some parts (mainly it’s easy readability, clean romance, and lighthearted story), I do think this book leans more contemporary fiction than straight romance.
Don’t get me wrong. There is some cute romantic elements in here, but that’s definitely not the focus. And to be honest, I think my one big complaint is that I wanted more of the romance! Give me more romance (less food service nitty gritty) and for the love of god, give me an epilogue!!
Honestly though, if the worst thing I can say about a book is that I wanted more then that’s a solid book in my opinion.
I’d definitely recommend this one to anyone who likes a good story that’s not going to drag you down at all.
✨ebook was gifted by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you so much @laramartinauthor! This was just what I needed!
October 24, 2023
It would be remiss of me to start this review without mentioning that the sweet author, Lara Martin reached out to me in February. She graciously offered me a copy of her book in exchange for a review. Sadly, it has taken me until now to get to this book. I am so grateful for her kindness and understanding!!!
Book Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nina Abrahams had done it again. She has gone and gotten herself fired from another restaurant. However, her termination had less to do with her skills and more to do with fighting for her employees rights. Afraid to tell her family and friends she has landed on the unemployed list, Nina finds herself wrist deep in Doritos. But a pity party for one can only last so long. After receiving some encouragement from her best friend (man she has been secretly in love with for years), she takes a leap of faith and lands a job outside her comfort zone. While her new restaurant has tons of potential, it is in desperate need of some tender love and care. Can Nina help turn both her life and the restaurant around, or has she bitten off more than she can chew?
This was such a good read! I loved witnessing Nina’s journey. In a lot of ways the restaurant was a metaphor for her own life. She was in desperate need of renovating both her personal and professional life. It wasn’t an easy fix. She dealt with some big roadblocks along the way, but with some hard work she ended up right where she belonged.
This book featured a great cast of minor characters. I can see Martin turning this into a series if she so chooses. In fact, she could easily write a handful of books to tie up their stories and I would gladly read each and every one!
Again, I cannot thank Lara Martin enough for reaching out to me back in February and being so patient with me. I hope this review encourages you to pick up a copy of her four star debut.
* Readers should be advised that this book tackles subject matter such as drug abuse, sexual abuse, and death.
Book Review:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nina Abrahams had done it again. She has gone and gotten herself fired from another restaurant. However, her termination had less to do with her skills and more to do with fighting for her employees rights. Afraid to tell her family and friends she has landed on the unemployed list, Nina finds herself wrist deep in Doritos. But a pity party for one can only last so long. After receiving some encouragement from her best friend (man she has been secretly in love with for years), she takes a leap of faith and lands a job outside her comfort zone. While her new restaurant has tons of potential, it is in desperate need of some tender love and care. Can Nina help turn both her life and the restaurant around, or has she bitten off more than she can chew?
This was such a good read! I loved witnessing Nina’s journey. In a lot of ways the restaurant was a metaphor for her own life. She was in desperate need of renovating both her personal and professional life. It wasn’t an easy fix. She dealt with some big roadblocks along the way, but with some hard work she ended up right where she belonged.
This book featured a great cast of minor characters. I can see Martin turning this into a series if she so chooses. In fact, she could easily write a handful of books to tie up their stories and I would gladly read each and every one!
Again, I cannot thank Lara Martin enough for reaching out to me back in February and being so patient with me. I hope this review encourages you to pick up a copy of her four star debut.
* Readers should be advised that this book tackles subject matter such as drug abuse, sexual abuse, and death.
November 5, 2023
All the Lost Pieces by Lara Martin
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I had the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a review from the author Lara Martin @laramartinauthor . I’m so thankful for this chance and I loved this book!!
The book was a bit of a slow start for me, but I was also in a bit of a reading slump and this book took me right out of it! I had a couple moments of uninterrupted reading time and I just cruised through the rest of this book! For those who don’t like romance, this is more than a love story! Give this book a try, you won’t regret it!
🍴: Rom Com
🍴: Slow Burn
🍴: Clean Romance
🍴: Friends to Lovers
🍴: Family Drama
🍴: Found Family
🍴: FMC restaurant manager with foodie scenes
TW: side character drug use, attempted date rape, sexual harassment, mention of loss of a parent, strained parent relationship.
Follow Nina through a rough patch in life when nothing seems to be going her way. She gets fired from her job, is hopelessly in love with her best friend Lucas who has no idea, strained relationship with her mom, a best friend who is making questionable choices, the list goes on. Just when she feels ready to give up, an opportunity arises and she decides to go for it.
It provides the perfect chance to start over which helps Nina step out of her comfort zone and gives her the courage to embrace much needed change, not only in her professional life but her personal life as well.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I had the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a review from the author Lara Martin @laramartinauthor . I’m so thankful for this chance and I loved this book!!
The book was a bit of a slow start for me, but I was also in a bit of a reading slump and this book took me right out of it! I had a couple moments of uninterrupted reading time and I just cruised through the rest of this book! For those who don’t like romance, this is more than a love story! Give this book a try, you won’t regret it!
🍴: Rom Com
🍴: Slow Burn
🍴: Clean Romance
🍴: Friends to Lovers
🍴: Family Drama
🍴: Found Family
🍴: FMC restaurant manager with foodie scenes
TW: side character drug use, attempted date rape, sexual harassment, mention of loss of a parent, strained parent relationship.
Follow Nina through a rough patch in life when nothing seems to be going her way. She gets fired from her job, is hopelessly in love with her best friend Lucas who has no idea, strained relationship with her mom, a best friend who is making questionable choices, the list goes on. Just when she feels ready to give up, an opportunity arises and she decides to go for it.
It provides the perfect chance to start over which helps Nina step out of her comfort zone and gives her the courage to embrace much needed change, not only in her professional life but her personal life as well.
June 4, 2023
If you’re in the mood for a joyful, emotional read, let us introduce you to All The Lost Pieces!
We cannot say enough good things about this book. It’s a warm-hearted, funny and entertaining read full of emotions, pining, laughs and found family tenderness. Nina is not in a great place. She’s just lost her job, her mother is too busy helping others and her image to really help her and her unrequited crush on her childhood best friend Lucas, is just that unrequited.
The writing is so engaging that once you pick it up you won’t want to put it down. The friendship between Nina, her brother Ryan and Lucas grounds the book and provides the history needed for a childhood best friends to lovers trope. The foundation of the book is Nina and her journey of self discovery with a bit of slow burn love that comes when you need it.
She was at a point in her life where everything fell apart and she has to pick up the pieces and start over. It wasn’t easy but she did it and came out a happier person on the other side! We loved the journey she went through and the friends she met along the way.
Thank you to @laramartinauthor for reaching out and providing us with a copy of her debut novel! We are looking forward to reading more from Lara!
Read if you like:
▪️A free spirited heroine
▪️Crush worthy best friend
▪️Quirky coworkers
▪️Lovable brother & sister in law
▪️Stories about finding yourself
▪️Food/restaurant scene
▪️All the feels
We cannot say enough good things about this book. It’s a warm-hearted, funny and entertaining read full of emotions, pining, laughs and found family tenderness. Nina is not in a great place. She’s just lost her job, her mother is too busy helping others and her image to really help her and her unrequited crush on her childhood best friend Lucas, is just that unrequited.
The writing is so engaging that once you pick it up you won’t want to put it down. The friendship between Nina, her brother Ryan and Lucas grounds the book and provides the history needed for a childhood best friends to lovers trope. The foundation of the book is Nina and her journey of self discovery with a bit of slow burn love that comes when you need it.
She was at a point in her life where everything fell apart and she has to pick up the pieces and start over. It wasn’t easy but she did it and came out a happier person on the other side! We loved the journey she went through and the friends she met along the way.
Thank you to @laramartinauthor for reaching out and providing us with a copy of her debut novel! We are looking forward to reading more from Lara!
Read if you like:
▪️A free spirited heroine
▪️Crush worthy best friend
▪️Quirky coworkers
▪️Lovable brother & sister in law
▪️Stories about finding yourself
▪️Food/restaurant scene
▪️All the feels
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