Fragments of the Heart

Ally McGuire has written a romance novel that has you wondering from the beginning if the MC’s will ever get together! The characters are very well developed, and I got the feeling I was sitting with them listening to their conversations. The plot is beautifully written and exciting. You really get a chance to know the characters before they were placed in the “action” portion of the novel. There are many highs and lows, and the scenery description brings a vivid picture to mind as it’s described. There is Kelly, the archeologist, who is fiercely independent, confident, and knows her worth. Shawn who is interested only in statistics and categorizing the artifacts found on the “digs.” and Bree who works with Shawn and really deserves to be mentioned with the two MC’s. Bree’s specialty is her photographic memory! Just when you think you have the dynamics of the characters figured out, Ally McGuire writes a major plot twist when Kelly is called to Alaska to quickly dig and replace artifacts that are uncovered by a large crevasse in a glacier. Having spent time with Shawn and Bree, Kelly convinces her boss that they need to go with her so that everything can be catalogued on the site, and replaced where they were found. The novel shifts into high gear and I found myself riveted and turning pages to see how it turned out. At that point, I couldn’t put the book down!

I found Fragments of the Heart to be a thoroughly enjoyable read. I love the way the author skillfully weaves multiple personalities and preferences throughout the story, showing how different people can find common ground. I was in awe of the amount of research that must have gone into plotting a believable story of modern archeology and the extreme issues of working on and in a glacier. The romance (since that's what we're here for) takes a little while to get off the ground, but once it does, it becomes satisfyingly all-encompassing. I can't recommend Fragments of the Heart enough if you're looking for both excitement and sweet sensuousness in a top-notch lesbian romance.

This is a sweet book. All the characters are well developed and believable. The background for the story is very unusual and adds to the depth of the book. Only mild angst so it doesn’t distract from the overall kindness in the book.

I love how you wrote your neurodivergent character, she was authentic and developed well. The story was well researched and a fun journey as well. An overall great read.

Holy heckfire! Normally I would use the word hellfire but Shawn Scott does not use swear words! Oh my God! I wish I was a better reviewer so I could explain why I love this book so much. Ally McGuire has a huge hit with this one! Archaeologist Kelly Pierce and Director of Descriptive Statistics (desk jockey) Shawn Scott couldn’t be more different. But their attraction is undeniable. Shawn is odd and different but she’s perfect. And Kelly sees how special she is. Kelly teases Shawn mercilessly but in a kind, caring way. Kelly helps Shawn come out of her shell. And Shawn makes Kelly see things in a new, delightful way. On top of first rate characters, supporting characters included, a kick ass, action packed romantic story completes the package. This book was perfect to me. Ally McGuire gave me two more fictional characters to love. Thank you Ally McGuire! Sincerely, Bonnie A. Welch