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Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail Order Bride by Debra Parmley – Review by Betsy Melano

Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail-Order Brides SeriesIsabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail-Order Brides Series by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked up this book because I was a bit curious about mail order brides of the 1800’s and what that might have experienced. Isabella has recently moved from Sweden to America with her parents. What was supposed to be new experiences for the three of them, takes a tragic turn when Isabella’s parents get sick on the voyage over and end up passing away. It must be hard for Isabella to be in this land where she has no family.
After a fire destroys her current job, Isabella decides to become a mail order bride. She is excited for the new journey and a bit worried about meeting her husband to be. Along the way, she almost gets kidnapped. Thank goodness a kind gentleman helps her out and she makes it to the train station where she finally meets Mr. Jenks, her husband to be. Will Isabella’s life be as picturesque as it’s described by Mr. Jenks?

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Mandy Ott

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novel by Amy Argent exceeded expectations! I had read previous books by this author, but the genre for The Lie That Binds was a little different. While still a romance, this book was more of a Young Adult read. The story took me back to high school; where what your friends and others thought of you was truly one of the most important things. The secrets and lies that the two main characters navigate throughout the book, together and separately, was truly amazing. How many secrets and lies are told in the world of a single high school on a daily basis? The Lie That Binds makes you truly think about what is important. Holly and Nathan not only traverse the secrets and lies, but they must come to terms with the feelings that first love evokes in them. This story has a wide array of realistic, relatable characters; some that I liked, others I did not, but all were necessary in the overall telling of the story. I can’t wait to read more books from Amy Argent!

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Robin Rankin

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Lie That Binds

This was a little harder for me to read than I expected once I found out the details of Nathan’s lie, especially since I have two family members who have dealt with this exact situation.   I had several memories come back to me that I hadn’t thought about for years and not many were pleasant.

Holly grabbed me from the beginning.   She is from Amarillo, Texas which is where my father in law is from and she even went to the same high school as he did.  It was a nice little connection which I appreciated and stuck with me throughout the book.

Nathan gave me a lot of anxiety, but it didn’t detract from his personality for me.  I wish he would have expected been honest from the beginning and saved me a lot of stress.

This is not my first book by this author and won’t be the last, though I will need to remember how anxious she can make me at times.

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by April McCoy

The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bernadette Marie gives us a feel good book with not one but three sweet romances! A new author for me, Bernadette wrote us the perfect book to curl up and lose ourselves to imagination. Well written with great characters and the main character Leona was so well written! I enjoyed the idea of a book store where matchmaking is paired with a good book! Would definitely read more like this!

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Betsy Melano

Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The first time I’m reading a book from this series. I really appreciated the prolog which helped me figure out a bit about the main character and how her vampire family was bound together for a purpose. Julia shares her troubles and learns to ask for help which is new to her. I felt a connection to Julia and her family as they work together. Overall I enjoyed the book even though I may have missed the earlier books.

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The Prospect of Death (An Alyssa Chalmers Cozy Mystery) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

The Prospect of Death (Alyssa Chalmers mysteries, #2)The Prospect of Death by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Prospect of Death pleasantly surprised me. I don’t normally enjoy historical books that take place centuries ago, but the description really drew me in. It took me a while for me to get into the book as it started a little slow. However, once they were in Run’s End, it really picked up. As the events started to unfold, I didn’t want to stop reading. There are a lot of characters, and they are referred to by first name and last name, so I had a hard time keeping them straight. However, they are really well written and each serve an important role in the story. I like how the women made their presence important, and so much more than the mail order brides they started out to be. Alyssa’s relationship with the doctor and Mr. Kendrick was interesting to say the least. I enjoyed the ending and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

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Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel) by India Kells – Review by Candida Hopper

Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel)Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This box set is a must read. I loved each of the brothers and the women they fell for. These women came into their lives at a time they needed them the most; they just didn’t know it. Each of them have a dark side but they are good men who love fiercely. The author did an exceptional job pulling me into each story and tying them all together. Each book has danger, action, romance, and so much more. As soon as you finish a book you will want to dive right into the next one. I needed to know if they were going to be able to stop their evil father. I highly recommend these books, you don’t want to miss out on this series.

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The Prospect of Death (An Alyssa Chalmers Cozy Mystery) by Carmen Radtke – Review by stephanie nicole

The Prospect of Death (Alyssa Chalmers mysteries, #2)The Prospect of Death by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was definitely an interesting read, I normally don’t read books like this but this one had such an integrating cover and synopsis that I couldn’t resist. This is my first time reading this author, but it won’t be my last. The plot was intriguing, the word development was great, and the characters were unique and well developed. So if your looking for a great new book to read, make sure to pick this one up today.

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan Series Book 1) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Stephanie Nordling

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think that I actually liked this sequel even more than the debut installment. It really feels like the footing was found. Which is strange, because it already felt like that with the first novel! Haha! It gave me strong Ghosts (both CBS & BBC versions) vibes. I love how interactive Morgan and others are with their otherworldly counterparts. And that the spirits are so active in their own investigations. Morgan’s roommates are amazing to read. I don’t want to give too much away in terms of spoilers, so I will just say that I cannot wait for the next novel in the series.

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The Prospect of Death (An Alyssa Chalmers Cozy Mystery) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Rayne East

The Prospect of Death (Alyssa Chalmers mysteries, #2)The Prospect of Death by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Marriage, Mystery and Murder.
This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. The author is very easy to read and the world building of the mining town and the era was spot on. It felt as though I was there in amongst the characters. I connected instantly with Alyssa and her strength of character. The historical aspect is well researched and it was woven well within the storyline. The emotions of the girls comes through as they embarked on their journey to discover a new life as a miner’s wife. A brilliant cozy mystery for an afternoon escape.

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by Skylar Daniels

The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book that I have read from this author, and I was not disappointed. This book immediately drew me in by the setting taking place inside a bookstore. (Truth be told, I’m a little jealous of the character. It’s always been my dream.) I had to read the book from the beginning to end in one sitting. Her writing is amazing, and I could feel and imagine everything the characters were. I’m excited to read more of her books in the future.

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Power Play (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 1) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Skylar Daniels

Power Play (Astoria Bay Thunder #1)Power Play by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This first book that I have read from the author, and I was not disappointed. This also the first book in the Astoria Bay Thunder series. I read this entire book in one sitting; I could not put this book down. I just had to finish the entire thing to see what happens. The author’s writing is amazing, I could see and feel everything the characters were at the exact moment in time. I can’t wait to see what the author has instore for this series. I’m excited to read future books from the author also.

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Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Skylar Daniels

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book that I have read from the author, and it is also the second book in the Astoria Bay Thunder series. I was not disappointed either. This author is amazing, and her writing style is very unique. Her writing brings the characters too life where you can see and feel everything they are at that moment. I look forward to reading more of the authors books in the future and I am excited to see what she has instore for this series.

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The Second Alpha Heir by C.L. Ledford – Review by Skylar Daniels

The Second Alpha HeirThe Second Alpha Heir by C.L. Ledford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book that I have read from this author, and this book quickly became of my favorites. I literally was not able to put this book down long enough to eat, I had to read this entire thing in one go. This is a nerd turned alpha situation of a story. If you are into books where the underdog bullied nerd becomes the hero, this is the story for you. The way the author had written this story is like you are feeling everything the character is feeling and seeing. The heartbreaks, challenges, and how the character overcomes everything that is thrown his way. I really recommend this story for everyone. I can’t wait to see what else this author has instore for future books.

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Caring for Kingsley, Believing in a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your World by Alli Eldridge – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Caring for Kingsley, Believing in a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your WorldCaring for Kingsley, Believing in a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your World by Alli Eldridge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No one wants to receive a cancer diagnosis, even if it’s not something you yourself have gone through, the news is heartbreaking to receive, especially for a loved one. In this book, we’re taken into the tragic rollercoaster that is cancer for a pet and are shown just how difficult this situation can be for both owner and pet. Pets are more than just ‘man’s best friend’, they’re our own family – beings we care for and love, which just makes the situation more heart-wrenching. I was drawn into this book because of the true light shown on this situation by the author. It takes a lot for someone to be so open about their experiences with something like this, and I really appreciate the strength it must have taken for this story to not only be written but shared.

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The Vardoger Boy (The Forerunner Saga Book 2) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Tori Mitton

The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series)The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another gripping book! This is the second in the series and amazing as the first.
In this book you will follow Kara, Cub, and of course our favorite Finn as their stories come along. This has more of the historical aspects, where as the first has more magic in it. But still soo good!! I’m going in for all the books in this series!!

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Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Emily Heisler

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bridger McKelty is in career crisis, his bad boy ways have caught up to him and the Astoria Thunder Hockey team are wondering if a trade is in the horizon. Wanting to clean up his act, his agent makes a few suggestions on how to transform Bridger into a reformed playboy. His first big task is organizing a calendar with his team for charity. The he meets Tia Ferris, she is the assistant to the photographer and peaks his interest. He should stay away but the sassy Tia makes it difficult to do so. As friends become something more Tia knows it is all going to crash around her, but could it be that this time she could be wrong?

There is a lot to this book especially when it comes to Tia’s past. I thought the chemistry between Bridger and Tia was sizzling. They pull you in and you just keep turning the page of the book because you want to see what happens next. Terrific story.

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Distant Memories (Nurse Morgan Series Book 2) by Kate MacInnis- Review by Heather Knalls

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Morgan is at it again. This time there is a dark apparition, Esmeralda that has set her sights on Caleb and that could not be good. She has now begun seeing more ghosts at the hospital and there are ghosts starting to cause issues. She has begun to see the nurses from the past that worked during the war at the hospital and she is not sure what to make of this new occurrence yet. Could everything go wrong or will Morgan be able to get everything under control.

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Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book 2 by Kate MacInnis-Review by Amanda Kimble

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 Stars

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book 2 by Kate MacInnis

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by the author. Distant Memories follows Distant Heart Sounds. This is the second book in the Nurse Morgan Series. You will absolutely love this book if you love Paranormal Romance.

Morgan is back again and this time there’s a new ghost in her life. Esmeralda or Esmey drapes herself over men whether or not there’s a female companion. Her relationship with Caleb is moving forward and it scares the living heck out of her. The quote I chose for Morgan is: “Why is that wrong? There are only two choices, so it’s not like you haven’t been down this road. Just enjoy the time. Despite the vomiting, you really are glowing.”

Caleb has never felt so right staying with Morgan. He loves working with her and at Good Sam. Savvy has been a good friend to him and he might soon be taking over. He helps Morgan with getting rid of the ghost. The quote I chose for Caleb is: “I’d be willing to bet that I’m more surprised than you are. There isn’t one woman in my past who would ever claim I was a romantic. I’m known for being dark and brooding. A stud in bed, certainly, but a romantic? Never. I actually felt a little silly doing this, but it seemed right.”

Highly recommended for Paranormal Romance lovers.

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Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Amelia Stansell

Devil's BreathDevil’s Breath by Lang Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Both lead characters are very strong and determined in their journey. They have a kind of love that is real and is hard to navigate, just like any real relationship. This story has some twist and turns and makes you keep reading until you are finished.

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Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13 Book 4) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Heidi Schoolman

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13, #4)Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is 129 pages in length and follows Sol, a recently retired fire fighter, and Ember, a new fire fighter. Ember has always had a crush on Sol but never explored it due to him being her mentor. Sol was injured and was forced to retire and is dealing with that in a bad way. Now that he is retired, she decides it is about time to explore those feelings. But will her career get in the way?

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Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Rosanna Ingram

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We met Bridger and Tia in the first book of the series…but this story is all about them. Bridger is a playboy Enforcer for the team. He is knows for his antics both on and off the ice. He is on thin ice with the team due to his poor playing and needs to clean up his act. He has an idea that may get him some more positive press.
When Tia joins her best friend as she photographs a hockey team for a charity calendar, she is not expecting the immediate attraction she feels for one of the players. She has sworn off bad boys due to a past relationship that still haunts and affects her to this day. Bridger and Tia decide they need just one weekend to work through their attraction so they can both move on. What they don’t expect is the friendship they form.
However, as they usually do, feelings start to creep their way into their friendship. Keeping their “friends only” relationship gets harder and harder to maintain. When they both find themselves in trouble…will they turn to each other? Or will their rules keep them from seeing what they truly need could be each other?
This was another good book in an enjoyable series. I love a good hockey romance and this one kept my attention the whole time. Tia and Bridger are both great characters. I enjoyed seeing the characters from the first book make appearances. I look forward to seeing where this series goes in the future.

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The Colors of Friendship (The Colors Trilogy Book 1) by K.R. Raye – Review by Kerry Carr

The Colors of Friendship (Colors Trilogy, #1)The Colors of Friendship by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this story. The author does an amazing job with the characters making them all unique and relatable. Each character has their own downfalls as well as their strengths.
The main focus of this story seems to be the relationship between Melody and Kevin. Their relationship seems perfect and to hopless romantic Melody is everything she wants. But things aren’t what they seem and Kevin isn’t really Prince Charming. Their story struck a nerve with me as I have been in a relationship similar but I got out very fast. The story is hard to read in the way that Kevin manipulates her and tries to distance her from her friends so she has no one.
I’m glad that her friends Imani and Lance are strong characters and that they are behind her even when she thinks they are interfering.
This book covers all things students do, parties, studying for their futures, relationships both good and bad, and shows that the bonds of friendship can overcome anything even when at times it seems like it can’t.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Vanessa Watts

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I cannot say enough good things about this book. The strong female lead who in a way is a vigilante protecting females from their lying, cheating, abusive men. We have all been there at one point in our lives and dealt with these types of men. This book offers the type of revenge we only wish we could have achieved.

Mimi, our female lead, has had her heart destroyed more times than any woman should. So after being taken in at the gentleman’s club, which just so happens to be a cover to protect women. She alters her identity and thus becomes the Queen of Hearts inviting men who beat her in hearts to her room, she loses on purpose. Once in her room she offers the men a drink that will forever alter their lives and protect future women from them. That is until she meets Jac, a blackmailer, who takes over as her supplier of her wares. However, upon winning and being taken to her room he refuses all she has to offer instead offering a deal she can’t refuse or can she? Things go awry from her as Mimi gets more than she bargained for with Jac. Can she learn to open her heart again to someone new? Or will she let love slip through her fingers because of past heartbreak?

This book gave me serious black widow vibes. It is a quick read and draws you in from the start, hooking you in Mimi’s web of vengeance on terribles males. If you like strong female characters and evil nefarious plots then this book is for you!

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No Pistol Tastes the Same (PTSD Disaster Book 1) by Jacob Paul Patchen – Review by Rayne East

No Pistol Tastes the SameNo Pistol Tastes the Same by Jacob Paul Patchen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Edge of your seat thriller
Emotional, confronting and brutal at times, this book is not for the light hearted. The author holds nothing back and has produced a brilliant story that holds the reader captive from start to finish. I didn’t even realise I was holding my breath for most of the book. The plot is well developed and deals with confronting issues with sensitivity. The emotional vulnerability of PTSD bleeds through the pages. A must read.

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Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13 Book 4) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Lauren West

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13, #4)Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed Sol and Ember’s story. Finding love when you least expect and taking that chance on the unknown.
Sol lost a piece of himself when he lost his job, and the demons he battled because of it took away his sense of purpose. Ember was a bright light and new to being a firefighter, and still trying to find her place. Sol was her mentor, but also so much more. Together they give each the strength needed.

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No Pistol Tastes the Same (PTSD Disaster Book 1) by Jacob Paul Patchen – Review by Lauren West

No Pistol Tastes the SameNo Pistol Tastes the Same by Jacob Paul Patchen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was deeply intense and emotional. It told a story that was very real and realistic. PTSD is all to common and not spoken about enough, and this story sheds light and facts associated with it.
Sgt. JP Grimm pulled at my heart strings watching his struggle and the ones he loved try to help him through. A man living each day with guilt and remorse until he decides he and his pistol might get a taste of each other. Emotionally I was not prepared for this story, but its a book I would 100% pick up again.

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The Colors of Friendship (The Colors Trilogy Book 1) by K.R. Raye – Review by Lauren West

The Colors of Friendship (Colors Trilogy, #1)The Colors of Friendship by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was an interesting yet enjoyable read. It explores friendship in all forms and the bonds that tie people together. Imani, Melody, and Lance were all great characters. The connection between them all and the support for each other and the situations they encounter are all very relatable. Melody was the romantic trying to find love and herself. Imani was career oriented but still trying to find things she wanted in her life. Lance was the football star who liked women, but still understood the importance of friendship.
Together their story is somewhat intense, but all around relatable in some way shape or form. Book 1 for this series was a great start

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One in A Billion (Pierce Brothers Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by Trisha Cargile

One In A Billion (Pierce Brothers, #3)One In A Billion by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What do you get when you combine a wholesome, sweet, personable female lead with a charming, Australian, hot male lead? A dang good book! One In A Billion hit every nail on the head: which romance, character building, banter, and light weight reading. It was airy, enjoyable, hard to put down, and an overall idea read for someone looking for easy to love characters and storylines. I can’t recommend this book enough!

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One in A Billion (Pierce Brothers Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by Rachel Moss

One In A Billion (Pierce Brothers, #3)One In A Billion by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute read! A typical, contemporary romance novel, it had witty venter between characters, sexual tension, and well written words throughout. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and the characters in it. It was a quick read and fast paced, which I really enjoyed. I easily got lost in this novel and didn’t want to leave. This is a standalone book, and the whole series is a standalone so you don’t have to have read the first two books to read this one. I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future!

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