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Pieces of Broken Time
July 24, 2014 Release
When wounded soldier Blake Connor returns from Afghanistan, he wants nothing more than to hide from the world. He’s plagued by the memory of his best friend’s death and the pain of his own injuries. On top of all that, he has another burden to carry.
Take care of our girl.
Blake’s vow to watch over the woman who was left behind is overshadowed by his self-contempt and bitterness, making it impossible for him to reach out to her like he’d promised.
Jennifer Owens had expected to get married the moment her fiancé returned home from the war, but the news of his death changed everything. Shattered by her loss, she is still struggling with feelings of guilt when she receives an unexpected letter that raises new questions and reopens old wounds.
Jennifer’s need for answers leads her to Blake’s doorstep, but she is met with hostility and rejection from a man who only vaguely resembles the head-turning charmer she remembers from so long ago. Blake is determined to keep her at arm’s length, and Jennifer soon discovers that she must decide whether to push back or let him go.
Caught up in circumstances beyond their control, Jennifer and Blake have to learn to accept the truths that lie below the surface. She comes to recognize the beauty underneath the scars, and Blake realizes that he’s broken in more ways than he cares to admit.
Nothing will ever be the same for this ex-Army Ranger once he faces the truth. If he can learn to accept the help he needs, he might be able to overcome his warped self-image and emotional scars. To be the man Jennifer deserves, he must heal his wounds before he loses the woman he loves forever.
When wounded soldier Blake Connor returns from Afghanistan, he wants nothing more than to hide from the world. He’s plagued by the memory of his best friend’s death and the pain of his own injuries. On top of all that, he has another burden to carry.
Take care of our girl.
Blake’s vow to watch over the woman who was left behind is overshadowed by his self-contempt and bitterness, making it impossible for him to reach out to her like he’d promised.
Jennifer Owens had expected to get married the moment her fiancé returned home from the war, but the news of his death changed everything. Shattered by her loss, she is still struggling with feelings of guilt when she receives an unexpected letter that raises new questions and reopens old wounds.
Jennifer’s need for answers leads her to Blake’s doorstep, but she is met with hostility and rejection from a man who only vaguely resembles the head-turning charmer she remembers from so long ago. Blake is determined to keep her at arm’s length, and Jennifer soon discovers that she must decide whether to push back or let him go.
Caught up in circumstances beyond their control, Jennifer and Blake have to learn to accept the truths that lie below the surface. She comes to recognize the beauty underneath the scars, and Blake realizes that he’s broken in more ways than he cares to admit.
Nothing will ever be the same for this ex-Army Ranger once he faces the truth. If he can learn to accept the help he needs, he might be able to overcome his warped self-image and emotional scars. To be the man Jennifer deserves, he must heal his wounds before he loses the woman he loves forever.
196 pages, Paperback
First published July 22, 2014
About the author
Lorenz Font
9 books126 followersA professional daydreamer, Lorenz Font discovered her love of writing after reading a celebrated novel that inspired one idea after another. Since being published in 2013, she has been conspiring, butting heads, and enjoying her spare time with vampires, angels, samurais, and other creatures she has created in her head.
Her perfect day consists of writing and lounging on her garage couch (a.k.a. the office) with a glass of her favorite cabernet while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She finds writing urban fantasy exhilarating and places an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.
Lorenz lives in Southern California with her supportive family and three demanding dogs.
Her perfect day consists of writing and lounging on her garage couch (a.k.a. the office) with a glass of her favorite cabernet while listening to her ever-growing music collection. She finds writing urban fantasy exhilarating and places an intense focus on angst and the redemption of flawed characters. Her fascination with romantic twists is a mainstay in all her stories.
Lorenz lives in Southern California with her supportive family and three demanding dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 23, 2014
3 - "I want to be perfect for you." Stars.
Pieces of Broken Time, is one of those books that has all of the components in it that would usually make it a hands-down winning read for me, it unfortunately fell a little short of the mark this time. A strong, quietly confident woman, and man who is broken, a bit of an asshole and is battling a boat load of personal demons, bought on by survivors guilt and PTSD, as well as the loss of one of his closest friends tick all my boxes. Add to that a slightly unusual twist to the normal romance, and I am in the main a happy reader.
Take care of our girl
The story rolls along quite nicely once Blake is back on US soil, and the progression for both Blake and Jennifer with regards to dealing with the loss of Trent, their grief and the development of their feelings towards each other flows pretty well. However I found the details a little sketchy with regards to the amount of time they spent with each other prior to the events of December 12th 2001, and Blake and Jennifer’s thoughts and feelings towards each other up to that point, bearing in mind she is engaged to Trent and he is his best friend.
”It sounds like the making of a tragic love story.”
I have read an awful lot of books recently that include an (ex) serviceman, who has suffered in the theatre of war, whether it be mentally, physically or a combination of the both, and although a lot of the guys I have read about are absolute assholes at points I have still deep down had a little soft spot for them... I really struggled with Blake, I understood that he was dealing with some pretty major issues, as well as struggling to get on with normal everyday life, while trying to uphold a promise to his friend and keep his personal feelings for Jenny in check, but at times he just came across as a rude, unlikeable ass.
”I’d never allow myself to love you.”
I think my dislike was compounded a little by Jenny, she did at points when dealing with Blake and his mood-swings sound like she was scolding a naughty child, or dealing with a stroppy teenager, and it made it difficult for me to find any credible emotional connection with them as adults attracted to each other.
As I said the story is sound, the thing that first attracted me too Lorenz’s writing is that she always makes her characters just a little different from the norm, and that is the case still with Pieces of Broken Time.... I think I would have liked more development with Blake’s reasoning behind his behaviour, and more conversation between the two of them, rather than the constant tantrum, reaction, strop, scold throughout the book. That-said, there were points where I absolutely just wanted to give him a big hug –
”I don't know how to act around people anymore. I feel alienated, and that is not just others’ doing but my own, too. It’s difficult to forget the faces; the lives I took, the ones taken from me. Nothing feels the same. I don't understand it when people tell me I’m lucky to be alive.”
Lorenz Font is always going to be an author whose work I will want to read. Although Pieces of Broken Time didn’t completely work for me, it was still an enjoyable read.
”I’m jus’ glad you’re home Jenny.”
ARC generously provided via the publisher, in exchange for the above honest review.
Pieces of Broken Time, is one of those books that has all of the components in it that would usually make it a hands-down winning read for me, it unfortunately fell a little short of the mark this time. A strong, quietly confident woman, and man who is broken, a bit of an asshole and is battling a boat load of personal demons, bought on by survivors guilt and PTSD, as well as the loss of one of his closest friends tick all my boxes. Add to that a slightly unusual twist to the normal romance, and I am in the main a happy reader.
Take care of our girl
The story rolls along quite nicely once Blake is back on US soil, and the progression for both Blake and Jennifer with regards to dealing with the loss of Trent, their grief and the development of their feelings towards each other flows pretty well. However I found the details a little sketchy with regards to the amount of time they spent with each other prior to the events of December 12th 2001, and Blake and Jennifer’s thoughts and feelings towards each other up to that point, bearing in mind she is engaged to Trent and he is his best friend.
”It sounds like the making of a tragic love story.”
I have read an awful lot of books recently that include an (ex) serviceman, who has suffered in the theatre of war, whether it be mentally, physically or a combination of the both, and although a lot of the guys I have read about are absolute assholes at points I have still deep down had a little soft spot for them... I really struggled with Blake, I understood that he was dealing with some pretty major issues, as well as struggling to get on with normal everyday life, while trying to uphold a promise to his friend and keep his personal feelings for Jenny in check, but at times he just came across as a rude, unlikeable ass.
”I’d never allow myself to love you.”
I think my dislike was compounded a little by Jenny, she did at points when dealing with Blake and his mood-swings sound like she was scolding a naughty child, or dealing with a stroppy teenager, and it made it difficult for me to find any credible emotional connection with them as adults attracted to each other.
As I said the story is sound, the thing that first attracted me too Lorenz’s writing is that she always makes her characters just a little different from the norm, and that is the case still with Pieces of Broken Time.... I think I would have liked more development with Blake’s reasoning behind his behaviour, and more conversation between the two of them, rather than the constant tantrum, reaction, strop, scold throughout the book. That-said, there were points where I absolutely just wanted to give him a big hug –
”I don't know how to act around people anymore. I feel alienated, and that is not just others’ doing but my own, too. It’s difficult to forget the faces; the lives I took, the ones taken from me. Nothing feels the same. I don't understand it when people tell me I’m lucky to be alive.”
Lorenz Font is always going to be an author whose work I will want to read. Although Pieces of Broken Time didn’t completely work for me, it was still an enjoyable read.
”I’m jus’ glad you’re home Jenny.”
ARC generously provided via the publisher, in exchange for the above honest review.
July 30, 2014
I’ve read a few of Font’s books before, and I always know to expect excellent writing, fantastic characters, and a heap load of angst. Pieces of Broken Time is no different!
Even before I opened the book, I knew it was going to be a tough read for me, due to the military aspect to the story. As someone with a long and varied military family, I kind of feel an affinity for these stories. Especially when, as in the case of this book, they are done with compassion, sympathy and obvious research done into procedures and, in this case, PTSD.
Blake is a character that you want to pity, but you find yourself wanted to shout at him and put him in his place. Understandably, he’s going through hell after surviving hell, and it’s very obvious that he suffers from guilt of returning home from the front line alive, regardless of how hurt he was. The nightmares, the flashbacks, the state he is in both mentally and physically is heartbreaking, yet he’s strong and a fighter, he just doesn’t quite know it yet.
Enter Jennifer. His best friend’s fiancee, and the woman he’s been in love with since the moment they met.
Jennifer is a complex character in that she’s a homebody and comes across as a bit meek (the proposal comes to mind), but as the story moves forward, she’s revealed as extremely strong and forthright, just what Blake (and she herself) needs.
But, as has become Font’s signature style (to me at least), nothing is ever that simple and easy. I won’t say any more than that, you know my thoughts on spoilers. All I can say is, go and buy this book. You will not be disappointed. Especially not if you love a bit of angst with a well thought out and executed plot with fabulous characters.
http://michbookreviews.wordpress.com/...
Even before I opened the book, I knew it was going to be a tough read for me, due to the military aspect to the story. As someone with a long and varied military family, I kind of feel an affinity for these stories. Especially when, as in the case of this book, they are done with compassion, sympathy and obvious research done into procedures and, in this case, PTSD.
Blake is a character that you want to pity, but you find yourself wanted to shout at him and put him in his place. Understandably, he’s going through hell after surviving hell, and it’s very obvious that he suffers from guilt of returning home from the front line alive, regardless of how hurt he was. The nightmares, the flashbacks, the state he is in both mentally and physically is heartbreaking, yet he’s strong and a fighter, he just doesn’t quite know it yet.
Enter Jennifer. His best friend’s fiancee, and the woman he’s been in love with since the moment they met.
Jennifer is a complex character in that she’s a homebody and comes across as a bit meek (the proposal comes to mind), but as the story moves forward, she’s revealed as extremely strong and forthright, just what Blake (and she herself) needs.
But, as has become Font’s signature style (to me at least), nothing is ever that simple and easy. I won’t say any more than that, you know my thoughts on spoilers. All I can say is, go and buy this book. You will not be disappointed. Especially not if you love a bit of angst with a well thought out and executed plot with fabulous characters.
http://michbookreviews.wordpress.com/...
July 20, 2014
As soon as I saw this available on Net Galley, I requested a copy because it sounded like a very intriguing story. I wasn't disappointed with the writing, or the storyline. My only complaint was the fact that Black just wasn't a very likable guy. He didn't want Jennifer to fall for him, and frankly, I was surprised she was able to. He was bitter and had a lot self-loathing which he projected to everyone around him.
Jennifer's a great girl and had the two of them not met before the loss of her fiance, I'm certain she wouldn't have fallen for his charming personality afterwards. :)
That being said, the book was well-written, it is a great story that was very realistic in its portrayal of what happened to Blake.
Jennifer's a great girl and had the two of them not met before the loss of her fiance, I'm certain she wouldn't have fallen for his charming personality afterwards. :)
That being said, the book was well-written, it is a great story that was very realistic in its portrayal of what happened to Blake.
July 20, 2014
A new book from this author that has the knack of taking readers on an unexpected journey. I previously discovered this authors paranormal work but was very keen to give something more contemporary a try and I am so pleased that I did . I am a huge romance fan but this story covers a whole gamut of emotions as the reader is truly turned inside out with these characters. A story of loss, pain and redemption that will stay with me a while .
Blake is home from fighting but he is not whole he is a man broken. Losing his friend and feeling totally inadequate he has internalised all his emotions and the pain is eating away at him. He knows he is not the only one hurting but knowing and understanding are not quite the same thing! Jennifer has lost the man she loved too and when she realises that Blake is home she needs to see him and find out what really happened but bitterness and guilt have changed Blake and although he always promised to be there for Jennifer he is not sure he can give her what she needs. What follows is not all hearts and flowers it's a battle to deal with reality and hopefully find closure . Two stubborn , angry, lonely people facing grief and finding something unexpected along the way. Sometimes what you want is not the same as what you need and admitting it is the hardest thing you do.
As usual Ms Font delivered a story that made me feel. I confess to being frustrated with the characters at times and wanted to shake them but at Ieast I wasn't bored! Oh no grief does strange things to people and it's hard to celebrate life when all you feel is loss. Jennifer is not the typical heroine but she deserves happiness and struggles so much with her own baggage. This is a story of love yes but it's so much more , it's a journey through the darkest reaches of pain and on the other side? Hope!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review
Blake is home from fighting but he is not whole he is a man broken. Losing his friend and feeling totally inadequate he has internalised all his emotions and the pain is eating away at him. He knows he is not the only one hurting but knowing and understanding are not quite the same thing! Jennifer has lost the man she loved too and when she realises that Blake is home she needs to see him and find out what really happened but bitterness and guilt have changed Blake and although he always promised to be there for Jennifer he is not sure he can give her what she needs. What follows is not all hearts and flowers it's a battle to deal with reality and hopefully find closure . Two stubborn , angry, lonely people facing grief and finding something unexpected along the way. Sometimes what you want is not the same as what you need and admitting it is the hardest thing you do.
As usual Ms Font delivered a story that made me feel. I confess to being frustrated with the characters at times and wanted to shake them but at Ieast I wasn't bored! Oh no grief does strange things to people and it's hard to celebrate life when all you feel is loss. Jennifer is not the typical heroine but she deserves happiness and struggles so much with her own baggage. This is a story of love yes but it's so much more , it's a journey through the darkest reaches of pain and on the other side? Hope!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review
July 16, 2014
Liz’s Review:
Blake Connor is lucky to be alive. Unfortunately, he doesn’t believe that. After watching his best friend die and then living with the pain of his own injuries and recovery, Blake has become an angry man. Mad at the world, he seems to have broken the one promise he made to his dying comrade....Take care of our girl.
All that Jennifer Owens has left of her dead fiance are pictures, memories, and his best friend. A man that she has had feelings for since she met him. Knowing that Trent had asked Blake to ‘watch over her’, she can’t help but wonder where he is. After finding out that he has been living down the block from her for almost a year, Jennifer decides to pay him a visit. What she finds is not the man that she once knew.
Together this pair will live through the pain, the anger, and the grief and come out on the otherside in love.
I had a bit of trouble connecting with the characters in the beginning, but once I got deeper into the book, I found myself rooting for them. First for Blake to overcome his fear of living again. Then for Jennifer, to have the courage to really love Blake. By the time that I read the last page, I had tears running down my face.
If you’re looking for a story about the trials of war and everlasting love, then Pieces of Broken Time is for you. Lorenz Font as weaved together the perfect love story. You find yourself so involved in the characters that you’ll want to hit Blake for his stubbornness and scream in frustration at both of their blindness. At the end though, you’ll cheer—for true love really does conquer all.
Grab your tissues and settle in for a beautiful love story.
Rating: 4 honey pots out of 5
http://beebookreviews.blogspot.co.uk/...
Blake Connor is lucky to be alive. Unfortunately, he doesn’t believe that. After watching his best friend die and then living with the pain of his own injuries and recovery, Blake has become an angry man. Mad at the world, he seems to have broken the one promise he made to his dying comrade....Take care of our girl.
All that Jennifer Owens has left of her dead fiance are pictures, memories, and his best friend. A man that she has had feelings for since she met him. Knowing that Trent had asked Blake to ‘watch over her’, she can’t help but wonder where he is. After finding out that he has been living down the block from her for almost a year, Jennifer decides to pay him a visit. What she finds is not the man that she once knew.
Together this pair will live through the pain, the anger, and the grief and come out on the otherside in love.
I had a bit of trouble connecting with the characters in the beginning, but once I got deeper into the book, I found myself rooting for them. First for Blake to overcome his fear of living again. Then for Jennifer, to have the courage to really love Blake. By the time that I read the last page, I had tears running down my face.
If you’re looking for a story about the trials of war and everlasting love, then Pieces of Broken Time is for you. Lorenz Font as weaved together the perfect love story. You find yourself so involved in the characters that you’ll want to hit Blake for his stubbornness and scream in frustration at both of their blindness. At the end though, you’ll cheer—for true love really does conquer all.
Grab your tissues and settle in for a beautiful love story.
Rating: 4 honey pots out of 5
http://beebookreviews.blogspot.co.uk/...
August 6, 2014
Lorenz Font has written another well-written novel.
Pieces of Broken Time is a highly emotional novel, full of intense and dark moments and characters trying to regain the light in their lives.
Blake is such a traumatized and sad soul, angry at himself and the world. War and death bring those to people and Blake knows it firsthand. Even promises he made cannot be kept. Breathing is difficult, living is unimaginable.
And then, Jennifer appears.
Jennifer lost her love in that war. She’s full of questions and sadness and guilt. Grief is hard to live with and so much harder to overcome. And through that, she has to deal with revelations that she needs answers to.
And then, they meet.
Blake is different. Jennifer is different. How they can make it work, how they can live and be happy after everything is the mystery..
Blake loves her..He really does..And in order to keep her and make her happy, things have to change. He has to change..He has to heal and get better..He has to find himself once more.. Because Jennifer is his woman..Simple as that..
Answers to questions, sadness and guilt and grief, happiness and love and hope are all in this book…
Pieces of Broken Time is a book you must read.. The characters are fantastic, the story is amazing and the writing is so beautiful and this combination makes your heart ache and your eyes fill with tears.
Pieces of Broken Time is a highly emotional novel, full of intense and dark moments and characters trying to regain the light in their lives.
Blake is such a traumatized and sad soul, angry at himself and the world. War and death bring those to people and Blake knows it firsthand. Even promises he made cannot be kept. Breathing is difficult, living is unimaginable.
And then, Jennifer appears.
Jennifer lost her love in that war. She’s full of questions and sadness and guilt. Grief is hard to live with and so much harder to overcome. And through that, she has to deal with revelations that she needs answers to.
And then, they meet.
Blake is different. Jennifer is different. How they can make it work, how they can live and be happy after everything is the mystery..
Blake loves her..He really does..And in order to keep her and make her happy, things have to change. He has to change..He has to heal and get better..He has to find himself once more.. Because Jennifer is his woman..Simple as that..
Answers to questions, sadness and guilt and grief, happiness and love and hope are all in this book…
Pieces of Broken Time is a book you must read.. The characters are fantastic, the story is amazing and the writing is so beautiful and this combination makes your heart ache and your eyes fill with tears.
July 17, 2014
‘Pieces of Broken Time’ by Lorenz Font, is a well written novel of love, tragedy, and recovery. The characters are strong and easy to identify with. Each of the three main characters have their own inner struggles and I found myself struggling right along with them.
The plot is strong with many ups and downs. I cried, laughed, and got mad along with Blake and Jennifer. Author, Lorenz Font has written a wonderful love story. The characters overcome anger, grief, loss, and pain.
I recommend ‘Pieces of Broken Time’ to all romance lovers.
I received a free PDF copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The plot is strong with many ups and downs. I cried, laughed, and got mad along with Blake and Jennifer. Author, Lorenz Font has written a wonderful love story. The characters overcome anger, grief, loss, and pain.
I recommend ‘Pieces of Broken Time’ to all romance lovers.
I received a free PDF copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2014
"Received and ARC for an honest review"
Lorenz Font has proved once again she is a good writer, the story line in this book and the characters where complex and deep.
Blake and Jennifer story is strong, he comes back from war struggling from his friend's death and the pain of his injuries. He vowed to take care of his friend's fiancée.
Jennifer tries to reach Blake to find answers but Blake is hostile and rejects her. But they both try to face the truth in order to overcome everything, he is falling for her but he needs to heal before he loses her forever.
This was a great story to read I would totally recommend it as all Lorenz Font's books.
Lorenz Font has proved once again she is a good writer, the story line in this book and the characters where complex and deep.
Blake and Jennifer story is strong, he comes back from war struggling from his friend's death and the pain of his injuries. He vowed to take care of his friend's fiancée.
Jennifer tries to reach Blake to find answers but Blake is hostile and rejects her. But they both try to face the truth in order to overcome everything, he is falling for her but he needs to heal before he loses her forever.
This was a great story to read I would totally recommend it as all Lorenz Font's books.
July 28, 2014
Lorenz Font is a new star on the rise! She never fails to tell compelling tale that evoked emotional reactions in readers. Her novel, Pieces of broken Time is an enjoyable tale of second chances in life. It's a deeply emotional and satisfying read. Her story lines are full of situations that captivated the readers , but it's the emotional pull you experience which brings the story to life. It is sensuous and straight up Awesome! I absolutely loved it.
August 15, 2014
I enjoyed reading this book. I could not put it down once I started reading the book. It took me half a day to read it. I enjoyed the two main characters, especially Blake. I truly enjoyed the friendship he had with Trent. Trent meant so much to him that he was willing to give up on the women he loved. I would recommend this book to all my friends.
July 29, 2014
I adore this book and have claimed Blake as my very own. The author took us on the journey, the path where our soldiers are often forgotten…. home. We expect them to fall back into their normal lives before they fought the war and forget what they left behind on the desert sands, but how do you forget watching your friends die? When do the nightmares stop of the last moment you are holding your best friend in your arms as his life is slipping away forever? When Blake comes home from the war he is empty, physically disfigured, emotionally shattered and suffering from PTSD. He is also carrying a promise that he made to Trent that he isn’t sure he can keep. He has to take care of Jennifer, the love of Trent’s life.
Blake got to know Jennifer through Trent. The loving words and feelings that he had when talking about marrying the woman of his dreams melted Blake’s heart. Wanting what Trent had, he lived through Trent’s heart and dreamed of this woman. Little did he know she didn’t really feel the same way about his best friend. When he made it back to the states, he did what he could to keep an eye on her, but there was no way he would face her with his face disfigured and his emotions all over the place. He won’t talk about what he saw or what he had to do over there. He won’t share that he can still feel the warmth of blood, the smell of death or the cries of those injured that appears in his nightmares, not because he doesn’t care, but because he doesn’t want those he loves to suffer like he does.
Jennifer wasn’t going to take that for an answer. Trent promised her Blake would take care of her if he didn’t return, so where is Blake now? She needs help, she needs to know what happen, and she needs Trent’s promise to be kept. The road isn’t easy for Blake and Jennifer, she is going to have to look past his anger and shame and believe that how he treats her isn’t because of anything she did. It is because he lived and Trent died. She loved Trent, maybe not as much as he loved her, but her heart is broken. She is scared to move forward, to let go of the memories. She has no one else but Blake and even he isn’t there.
I am not sure I have read another story about PTSD and returning warriors that capture the emotions and reality like this one does. The survival guilt that Blake has was very present in this story, letting us see his pain to the point I found I couldn’t be angry at him for what he did. He is truly guided by the pain of what he left behind and what he lost while fighting the war. I didn’t want to like Jennifer after finding out how she really felt about Trent, but watching her never give up on Blake till she had to for her own survival made me want her to be happy. She showed such acceptance and kindness to him for so long, even when he would deny it because of his own feelings.
Trent, what can I say about him? The author let us know who he was and how he felt about these two people who were so important to him and I found myself forgetting he was only a memory now. It became painfully clear to me what we all have lost during the war, wonderful young men such as Trent. Lorenz took on a very sensitive matter and wrote about a love that was created through pain, loss and heart break. The book isn’t very long and it was a very smooth read with her writing style. She has the talent of making her books become a movie in the readers mind as they read. For a reader to get the real message Lorenz is trying to send, you must go into this book with an open mind and place yourself in Blake’s shoes. See his memories and nightmares as he does, feel those emotions as he feels them. He isn’t an evil man; he is an empty vessel that Jennifer must fill with love and a reason to live.
Blake got to know Jennifer through Trent. The loving words and feelings that he had when talking about marrying the woman of his dreams melted Blake’s heart. Wanting what Trent had, he lived through Trent’s heart and dreamed of this woman. Little did he know she didn’t really feel the same way about his best friend. When he made it back to the states, he did what he could to keep an eye on her, but there was no way he would face her with his face disfigured and his emotions all over the place. He won’t talk about what he saw or what he had to do over there. He won’t share that he can still feel the warmth of blood, the smell of death or the cries of those injured that appears in his nightmares, not because he doesn’t care, but because he doesn’t want those he loves to suffer like he does.
Jennifer wasn’t going to take that for an answer. Trent promised her Blake would take care of her if he didn’t return, so where is Blake now? She needs help, she needs to know what happen, and she needs Trent’s promise to be kept. The road isn’t easy for Blake and Jennifer, she is going to have to look past his anger and shame and believe that how he treats her isn’t because of anything she did. It is because he lived and Trent died. She loved Trent, maybe not as much as he loved her, but her heart is broken. She is scared to move forward, to let go of the memories. She has no one else but Blake and even he isn’t there.
I am not sure I have read another story about PTSD and returning warriors that capture the emotions and reality like this one does. The survival guilt that Blake has was very present in this story, letting us see his pain to the point I found I couldn’t be angry at him for what he did. He is truly guided by the pain of what he left behind and what he lost while fighting the war. I didn’t want to like Jennifer after finding out how she really felt about Trent, but watching her never give up on Blake till she had to for her own survival made me want her to be happy. She showed such acceptance and kindness to him for so long, even when he would deny it because of his own feelings.
Trent, what can I say about him? The author let us know who he was and how he felt about these two people who were so important to him and I found myself forgetting he was only a memory now. It became painfully clear to me what we all have lost during the war, wonderful young men such as Trent. Lorenz took on a very sensitive matter and wrote about a love that was created through pain, loss and heart break. The book isn’t very long and it was a very smooth read with her writing style. She has the talent of making her books become a movie in the readers mind as they read. For a reader to get the real message Lorenz is trying to send, you must go into this book with an open mind and place yourself in Blake’s shoes. See his memories and nightmares as he does, feel those emotions as he feels them. He isn’t an evil man; he is an empty vessel that Jennifer must fill with love and a reason to live.
July 23, 2014
~Given to me in exchange for a honest review~
I was interested in this book when I read the excerpt for it so I went a head and signed up for the blog tour/review for an honest review. At first I though that the story would pick up right after Blake’s’ time in the army but I was a bit disappointed that it didn’t it.
For some background on the characters to understand why they are the way they are is important but me being a military wife didn’t want to read about what he went through when I could just pictured it in my head but I read it anyway.
It was well written and you could see and picture what was happening during the first few chapters. The relationship between Blake, his best friend and battle buddy Trent and the girl that they both love Jennifer, but only one of them had the privilege of knowing more than just a friend.
After the tragic accident during the deployment where Blake looses his best friend and most of his squad, we see a huge change in him, but who wouldn’t. PTSD and survivors guilt are huge among our soldiers.
One of the things I completely disliked about the story is Jennifer naivety. Knowing that Blake and Trent were always together during assignments why would she think that his injuries might not be related to Trent dying. That was hard to read I wanted to reach in there and smack her silly for not really paying attention.
Being a military wife I know that our soldiers always tells us more than they should so I would imagine that Trent would have let Jennifer know that he would be gone for a while before he could talk to her again. Which would translate to Blake being gone as well and most likely on the same assignment.
Other than that it was a really well written story with plenty of up and downs for Jennifer and Blake. They like each other but they feel guilty about it, do they get together or would they let the ghost of Trent and the grief be in the way of what could be something beautiful, something they both deserve after the tragedy on their life.
I give it a 4 out of 5 for a great read.
I was interested in this book when I read the excerpt for it so I went a head and signed up for the blog tour/review for an honest review. At first I though that the story would pick up right after Blake’s’ time in the army but I was a bit disappointed that it didn’t it.
For some background on the characters to understand why they are the way they are is important but me being a military wife didn’t want to read about what he went through when I could just pictured it in my head but I read it anyway.
It was well written and you could see and picture what was happening during the first few chapters. The relationship between Blake, his best friend and battle buddy Trent and the girl that they both love Jennifer, but only one of them had the privilege of knowing more than just a friend.
After the tragic accident during the deployment where Blake looses his best friend and most of his squad, we see a huge change in him, but who wouldn’t. PTSD and survivors guilt are huge among our soldiers.
One of the things I completely disliked about the story is Jennifer naivety. Knowing that Blake and Trent were always together during assignments why would she think that his injuries might not be related to Trent dying. That was hard to read I wanted to reach in there and smack her silly for not really paying attention.
Being a military wife I know that our soldiers always tells us more than they should so I would imagine that Trent would have let Jennifer know that he would be gone for a while before he could talk to her again. Which would translate to Blake being gone as well and most likely on the same assignment.
Other than that it was a really well written story with plenty of up and downs for Jennifer and Blake. They like each other but they feel guilty about it, do they get together or would they let the ghost of Trent and the grief be in the way of what could be something beautiful, something they both deserve after the tragedy on their life.
I give it a 4 out of 5 for a great read.
July 31, 2014
I have a soft spot for a story about a soldier. And no, it’s not about how hot they look in their uniform…it’s about how hot they look when taking it off.
After a tragic accident leaves his best friend dead, Blake Conner returns home grieving and physically, emotionally and mentally wounded. He shuts himself away from the world, hating what he now sees in the mirror and unable to make his best friend’s dying wish come true.
Jennifer Owens lost the same man Blake did. Her fiancé was supposed to come home to his waiting bride-to-be, however the only thing that came back to Jennifer was a letter from Trent telling her Blake would take care of her if something ever happened to him.
Look at that cover. I'm completely in love with it. It's the first thing that drew me in. The summary on this one held so much promise, it intrigued me immediately. However, I was just left feeling okay about it in the end.
There wasn’t anything wrong with the writing, or even the story, I think my problem had more to do with the characters. I couldn’t connect to them in any way. I really wanted to like Blake because the guy has been through some shit and of course he’s going to be messed up and angry. But I couldn’t like him, I couldn’t feel sorry for him, I honestly couldn’t feel anything for the guy, good or bad.
Jennifer… I feel as if she was a very weak character. I really don’t think she was right for Blake at all; there was no chemistry between them. It was as if she only wanted to be with him because it was what Trent wanted and being with his best friend was easier than opening up to other people and going out and finding something real with someone else.
Now there is one scene in the book that I had some issues with.
The shower.
Jennifer knew how Blake felt; he wanted her to leave him alone and made it clear that he wanted nothing more to do with her than he had to. It didn’t matter how he really felt, or that he was lying to her, the only thing that mattered is what he told her. I feel like she took advantage of him being drunk and vulnerable. If the roles had been reversed and it was a drunken Jennifer and sober Blake, I’m sure there would be an uproar of reviewers screaming that what he did was wrong. Maybe some would even take it a step farther and scream sexual assault. Sure, Blake was into it in the moment, but Jennifer should have had the decency, and not to mention the brains, to tell him no instead of taking it as her chance to be with him. The guy didn’t even remember what happened the next morning! It was just wrong all the way around.
I do like that it gives a reader hope that after such a great loss and all the damages that have been done a happily ever is possible. And I do like the idea of having two characters grieving over the same man come together. I just think there could have, and should have, been a lot more passion in the story.
After a tragic accident leaves his best friend dead, Blake Conner returns home grieving and physically, emotionally and mentally wounded. He shuts himself away from the world, hating what he now sees in the mirror and unable to make his best friend’s dying wish come true.
Jennifer Owens lost the same man Blake did. Her fiancé was supposed to come home to his waiting bride-to-be, however the only thing that came back to Jennifer was a letter from Trent telling her Blake would take care of her if something ever happened to him.
Look at that cover. I'm completely in love with it. It's the first thing that drew me in. The summary on this one held so much promise, it intrigued me immediately. However, I was just left feeling okay about it in the end.
There wasn’t anything wrong with the writing, or even the story, I think my problem had more to do with the characters. I couldn’t connect to them in any way. I really wanted to like Blake because the guy has been through some shit and of course he’s going to be messed up and angry. But I couldn’t like him, I couldn’t feel sorry for him, I honestly couldn’t feel anything for the guy, good or bad.
Jennifer… I feel as if she was a very weak character. I really don’t think she was right for Blake at all; there was no chemistry between them. It was as if she only wanted to be with him because it was what Trent wanted and being with his best friend was easier than opening up to other people and going out and finding something real with someone else.
Now there is one scene in the book that I had some issues with.
The shower.
Jennifer knew how Blake felt; he wanted her to leave him alone and made it clear that he wanted nothing more to do with her than he had to. It didn’t matter how he really felt, or that he was lying to her, the only thing that mattered is what he told her. I feel like she took advantage of him being drunk and vulnerable. If the roles had been reversed and it was a drunken Jennifer and sober Blake, I’m sure there would be an uproar of reviewers screaming that what he did was wrong. Maybe some would even take it a step farther and scream sexual assault. Sure, Blake was into it in the moment, but Jennifer should have had the decency, and not to mention the brains, to tell him no instead of taking it as her chance to be with him. The guy didn’t even remember what happened the next morning! It was just wrong all the way around.
I do like that it gives a reader hope that after such a great loss and all the damages that have been done a happily ever is possible. And I do like the idea of having two characters grieving over the same man come together. I just think there could have, and should have, been a lot more passion in the story.
November 10, 2014
This is hands down my favorite among Ms. Font's stories. I love her attention to details and the vividry of her writing. This is a tale of loss, love and the path to self-acceptance.
July 24, 2014
**Pieces of Broken Time generously provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Pieces of Broken Time takes the reader on an honest and raw journey of redemption with two main characters navigating the pieces of their lives after a tragic loss. A good military story seems like the hardest to get right. The pressure for the sensitivity and care in which the author needs to write of loss and disability from the military is immense. Lorenz Font handled this beautifully with these two characters.
Jennifer and Blake battle back from a loss, each affected in very different ways, with real honesty and perseverance. I admire this author for how she represented the struggles, especially Blake, went through and how they moved to overcome such obstacles.
Our female lead here, Jennifer, is naive when it comes to Black Connor. Having been engaged to his best friend she’s shy to the fact of his admiration to her and to the man he’s become since having last seen him before the loss of her fiance. There were times I thought this character was really clueless in the story and quite underdeveloped. The way she handled Blake’s issues redeemed her in a lot of whys because she obviously possesses a strength she doesn’t outwardly show.
The real testament to the story is Blake. He’s suffering. He tries battling the demons in his mind constantly with such intensity the feelings he provokes from the reader are equally intense. You will feel for this man, for what happened and how, for the emotions – guilt and the like – he works through on a daily basis to gain some semblance of his former self back. The writer authentically portrayed his loss, his suffering, and his redemption beautifully.
I rather enjoyed the story of the Jennifer and Blake. It’s a different and original plot basis. Separately, I liked these two characters a lot, felt their emotion. However I had an issue with when they were together or working towards each other. I felt no passion in their connection, they expressed the need they feel in each other’s presence however has a reader I hadn’t felt it at all. On the basis of romance, I wasn’t feeling the connection there was a lack of passion, a lack of need. I wished their relationship as a whole could have been developed more fully. As a story of redemption for two people Pieces of Broken Time is a good story especially for those interested in the fighting back of a military man and the woman he needs to help him find his way.
August 15, 2014
I think the first thing that comes to mind when I read books like these is how sad and tragic it is that there's still such a thing as warfare going on anywhere in the world. All the lives that are (negatively) affected by this whether in an instant or forever altering someone's life is senseless. Take Blake and Trent in this novel--Trent doesn't survive and Blake is injured only to survive but be forced to live a severely altered life. Then there's Jennifer--her life is changed forever when her fiance is ripped away from her. Right. So we've established that this book is indeed, really sad.
Besides the sadness factor, it was also twisted. Not in a bad way but it's funny how life works out. Jennifer and Blake, though they fight it, end up together and it seems like it was meant to be with their feelings for each other mirroring each other but neither of them wanted to face Trent with the truth. It was a bit farfetched at the same time. It was odd to read on and on about how much Blake is physically suffering but then he's more than a-ok to have sex with Jennifer in the shower (which, common, is physically exerting...)! I felt like most of the story was fairly cut and dry. The chapters jumped and it felt that it was disjointed at times. I'm generally a fan of military themed stories so PoBT served that just fine. My mind wasn't blown by this book but it wasn't too hard to get through, either.
Besides the sadness factor, it was also twisted. Not in a bad way but it's funny how life works out. Jennifer and Blake, though they fight it, end up together and it seems like it was meant to be with their feelings for each other mirroring each other but neither of them wanted to face Trent with the truth. It was a bit farfetched at the same time. It was odd to read on and on about how much Blake is physically suffering but then he's more than a-ok to have sex with Jennifer in the shower (which, common, is physically exerting...)! I felt like most of the story was fairly cut and dry. The chapters jumped and it felt that it was disjointed at times. I'm generally a fan of military themed stories so PoBT served that just fine. My mind wasn't blown by this book but it wasn't too hard to get through, either.
August 14, 2015
Lorenz has yet to fail me in her books. She nails the complex relationships and feelings we all have. In this book we follow the all too common complex and conflicting aftermath of war, the hero, Blake survivor of a battlefield of Afghanistan, injured and scared badly while trying to to save his best friend and his squad. Blake is trying to hide his scars and survivor's guilt while keeping his promise to watch over his best friend's fiancee without letting her see him and his injuries. Blake is also hiding his love for this woman. So many of our wounded warriors come home feeling that because of their injuries and surviving where those around them didnt they no longer belong in their own families or in the world they used to know. Font shows Blake's battle to once more find his way in his world and accept that despite his changed looks he has value and is deserving of love and acceptance. While not every returning vet will find their happy ending, they should and I hope a book like this as well as the real life stories we see of injured vets making the most of what life has handed them will have a positive affect on others returning home with visible and invisible scars. May the rest of us never turn away from those who came back from protecting us with these scars
April 17, 2014
Pieces of a Broken Time had a very intriguing synopsis which is what compelled me to read it.
In the end, the book was okay. Wasn't horrible but not great either. There was a bit of a disconnect between the reader and the characters, even the connection between Blake and Jennifer wasn't very strong.
It started off really well, but from the triangle with Trent to the aftermath, I felt like it really jumped.
You don't really understand why Blake becomes who he does, other than PTSD and Jennifer is sort of just there in the background.
Some books have too much filler and some need more - this one needed more. It was very abrupt and things were just needed to be accepted.
Also, maybe the fact that it is written in third person,creates more of a disconnect as well.
As I read an advanced reading copy, if there is room for improvement, I would take the time to rework the story more as the plot is very promising. I just didn't feel like it delivered to its full potential.
*A copy of this novel was provided via NET Galley in exchange for an honest review*
In the end, the book was okay. Wasn't horrible but not great either. There was a bit of a disconnect between the reader and the characters, even the connection between Blake and Jennifer wasn't very strong.
It started off really well, but from the triangle with Trent to the aftermath, I felt like it really jumped.
You don't really understand why Blake becomes who he does, other than PTSD and Jennifer is sort of just there in the background.
Some books have too much filler and some need more - this one needed more. It was very abrupt and things were just needed to be accepted.
Also, maybe the fact that it is written in third person,creates more of a disconnect as well.
As I read an advanced reading copy, if there is room for improvement, I would take the time to rework the story more as the plot is very promising. I just didn't feel like it delivered to its full potential.
*A copy of this novel was provided via NET Galley in exchange for an honest review*
May 12, 2015
I have never read stories like this and I found myself addicted to this from the first chapter to the last and I was shattered that it came to its end.
Both main character were scarred in their own way and I started to feel like I was inside this story as its main character Jennifer, which of course made me hope everything would turn out the best for her.
I had so many different feelings while reading this story, from utterly happiness to the moment where I was crying like a little child who had lost her favorite toy.
I can honestly say that I think this story is one of the stories everyone should read, because it is absolutely fantastic story, which will take you to emotional journey of your life!
Both main character were scarred in their own way and I started to feel like I was inside this story as its main character Jennifer, which of course made me hope everything would turn out the best for her.
I had so many different feelings while reading this story, from utterly happiness to the moment where I was crying like a little child who had lost her favorite toy.
I can honestly say that I think this story is one of the stories everyone should read, because it is absolutely fantastic story, which will take you to emotional journey of your life!
Want to read
April 15, 2014**ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
July 21, 2014
Review to come on July 29th on Lily Loves Indie - www.lilylovesindie.co.uk
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