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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Tia Martel

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cate Silver has a secret. 20 years ago she killed a man, but no one knew the truth. No one except her best friend Patti Thomas. Now with the case reopened, Cate is feeling the pressure of her secret and afraid of losing everything, thinks she needs to tell the truth.

Patti left at the end of the summer that year and had barely looked back. Now with Cate struggling to keep it quiet, Patti has decided that she needs to go home and help Cate.

Back in Vermont, the truth of that night threaten the friendship between two girls, now women, as evidence surfaces. Can they make it out the other side of this case?

Depending on You was a quick, entertaining read. It was very well written and you can definitely see the connection between the two friends almost immediately. This book has friendship, twists, lies, secrets, and murder. It makes you think about the friendships you have and the distance you’d be willing to go to protect the ones you love.

I think the most terrifying part about this book is the ability that situations like this can, and do, happen. I definitely recommend this book and to think through what you would do in varying situations because you never know what could happen.

Besides, what do you do when someone is depending on you?

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Tori Werkheiser

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book starts off with the knowledge that one of the main characters murdered someone but we don’t know who, how, or why. I was immediately hooked by the synopsis but the first two chapters I honestly hated and thought I would end up hating this book but man was I wrong. This book is really about the friendship of two women Cate and Patti and it flips back from the present-day to the year of the murder as we learn about the girls friendship, their personal lives and the night that lead to the murder. The two best friends once attached at the hip separated as most friendships do with time and distance but the one thing bringing them together again could also be the thing that tears them apart. This book is full of twists and secrets and honestly really had me hooked after the first 20%. There was a lot of love, heartache, sacrifice, secrets, and true genuine once-in-lifetime relationships. This was absolutely worth the read and I’m so glad I stuck with it because the ending was crazy.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is not my first read by this author nor will it be my last but I believe this is my new favorite . I felt the connection from the start and I really loved these characters. The writing style of this author no matter what the subject matter is, just has a way to make you feel and see the story like you are in it with them. Highly recommend

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
I’m completely blown away by these wonderfully written stories, both prequels for my favorite series The Logan McKenna Mystery Series. Both of these stories pulled me in from the beginning and I literally blocked put the outside world. I was so drawn to the characters and the story that went along with them. This author is one of my favorites and every book is my favorite. The first story we read about Logan’s great grandmother and about a violin that gets passed down several generations. My emotions were all over the place with this one. Loved it. The second is a short story that places us right before Logan’s world is shattered and its fast paced and just hard to put down as the first story. I highly recommend reading this book it’s definitely worth the time I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Robin Rankin

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Depending On You

I loved this book and savored each page not wanting to say bye to these characters.

Patti and Cate reminded me of my best friend and me.  Amy and I have been friends since we were 13 and 14 and here we are almost 34 years later still together but not without issues in the past.   There isn’t a thing we wouldn’t do for one another even in the middle of the night.

I could relate way too much with Cate and her relationship with her Mom and I think was one reason I loved this book as much as I did.  Also how Cate mothered and took care of her little sister.   My sister is 16 years younger than me, I took care of her like she was my own much like Cate did with Sammy.

This was my first time reading this author but it will not be my last.  I have been thinking about this book since I finished it and when an author grabs and keeps a hold of me then I know I will be reading them again.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Tracy Manderson

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first read by this author and she has intrigued me. The characters are great and the plot with twists and turn made for a great read. I will definitely be reading more of this authors work.

Cate and Patti where friends until one tragic night when Cate killed a man. For the last 20years Cate thought she got away it. Now that the case has been re-open, she is frightened does she turn herself in or does she wait and see on the outcome?

Patti left 20years ago and left her friend to fend for herself. She started a whole new life to keep their secrets hidden. With a family of her own she needs to go back and help her friend.

With the two friend together again they need to decide if they will talk about that night or keep running from that night? Can this friendship overcome the new evidence that has come to light?

Tracy

@tracym

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Kylean Sprosty

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great book! As the story unfolds it’s more clear of what might happen but you can’t be for sure. Patti and Cate are great friends and their sisterhood is something to be admired. Love how Mr. Silver’s character and Sammy develop throughout the story line. Good read!

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Megan Pesek

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secrets everywhere! One night changed their lives and their friendship. It isn’t a shock that they drifted apart, Cate is a killer. So many twists and turns to keep up with as Cate and Patti’s friendship faces secrets unknown, even to each other, 20 years later. As the truth unfolds they can turn away from each other or lean on each other. The secrets keep you on the edge of your seat and needing more answers.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Veronica Lee

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author but will not be the last. She has a knack when it comes to writing characters that are very believable. The twist and turns in this book keep you on the edge of your seat waiting ti see what happens next.
Secrets never stay hidden, for Patti Thomas and Cate Silver who have been Best Friends since they were seven but one night something happens that alters their lives after high school. Both have this secret and now 10 years later they reconnect but will everything implode??

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Depending on You” written by Jessica Aiken-Hall is an emotional story about two best friends, Cate and Patti, who have kept a life altering secret for the last twenty years. As evidence begins to surface, they must make the decision to face the consequences of their actions. I admired the way the author describes the setting, allowing me to think back to my own high school years. The character development was amazing, I loved following these two women and admired their personal growths.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Angelina Frazzini

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is full of suspense and twists and turns. You can’t help but get sucked in.

Cate and Patti have to decide if it’s time to shed light on some secrets from their past. Secrets never stay hidden and the past is bound to catch up. This story follows Cate and Patti and the journey to the truth.

This book is very well written and there is so much suspense and intrigue you can’t help but being on the edge of your seat!

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Trish Ann

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed the story of Cate and Patti. The plot was engaging and full of twists and secrets that kept the reader’s attention. I had a hard time putting the book down because I needed to know what was going to happen and how the truth would be set free. There were so many layers folding into the story and it was a different crime book than the types I normally read. I would recommend this book and look forward to more from this author.

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Nina Maes

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful love story of two people that found each other. This one kept me wanting more and it was a fast read. Captivating in all areas, will not disappoint you one bit. The author does a great job of inviting you into this story. Looking forward to reading more and more.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Betsy Melano

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have read several books by this author and this story, like the others, doesn’t disappoint. I enjoyed reading about the lifelong friendship between Cate & Patti. Like many of us, the friendship changes as the two grow old but they have always been there for each other in the time of need. An event from their past is distressing Cate to a point she reaches out to Patti for strength and support. How will these friends cope through the murder case that is being reopened and will they still be friends when the secret is revealed?
Overall, I thought the characters were well written, I was able to connect with them and remember those life long friends in my own life.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Jess Engel

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Phenomenal. This author is consistently good; I love everything I read by her, and this is no exception. The characters always have such depth and the relationships are palpable. Nostalgia oozes through the pages on this book and a the friendship between Cate and Patti will give you all the feels. These two have been through a lot together, including a major trauma they have kept secret for decades—and has also kept them apart. Even with all of the time that has passed, their bond is just as strong, but with their secret coming back into the fold, can the best friends survive the revival of this trauma?

The shifting from past to present and building of the story was engaging and keeps you turning the pages until the end. Pick this one up!

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Jenny See

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last! This book has a little bit of everything. It has love, friendship, romance, and mystery. It’s a beautiful story of the friendship of Cate and Patti, and one night that changed the course of that friendship. Cate killed a man and they have been keeping it a secret for twenty years. Patti left town to go to college and never looked back. The case has been reopened, so Cate goes and brings Patti home, afraid of what will happen with the case being reopened. This book is awesome! It’s full of twists and turns, and is so well written. I will definitely be reading more from this author, she has a beautiful way of telling a story.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Rosanna Ingram

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cate and Patti were closer than best friends…they were sisters. But a tragic incident 10 years ago changed their friendship forever. They went from seeing each other monthly, to yearly, to not seeing each other in over 3 years.

What began as Cate pushing everyone away after that fateful night turned into years of loneliness. Cate has been living a life of solitude…weighed down by the guilt she carries. When Cate reaches out to Patti when she finds out someone is looking into a closed case from 10 years ago, they rekindle their friendship that has been neglected for years. However, it seems like everyone has been hiding secrets for the past ten years that, and once they come to light, throw everyone’s relationships into turmoil. As truths are revealed, it seems that nothings was as it seemed. Can Cate and Patti’s friendship withstand more secrets? Or is the damage irreparable?

I really enjoyed this story of the strength of family bonds…even when that family is the one we choose! Cate and Patti have both been living with the weight of guilt and secrets that could have been lessened if they had been open and honest with those around them. As this story unfolded, I found myself tearing up more than once. There was just so much to unpack…so many layers…and each was as devastating as the last. An emotional book that packed a punch while soothing the soul. Overall…a great book!

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Shai Flores

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So many stories about true soulmate love are romantic, but this beautiful story is about how a best friend can be your soulmate. This story reminded me of the relationship that I have with my best friend. This book is about two best friends that have to deal with life’s hardships, both together and separately, and how real friendship lasts through it all. Although I figured out most of the plot twist fairly early on, I was still slightly surprised at the very end. I loved the way it ended and I would definitely recommend this book as a feel-good story. This was the first book I have read by this author, but I would definitely read more from her.

Reviewed by @puffprincess
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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Kerry Carr

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have read several books by this author and have loved everyone of them. This book was just as good and captivating as the others. The author does an amazing job of of writing a story that twists and turns and keeps the reader guessing and her characters are so well written that you feel like they are your close friends.

Cate and Patti are best friends. They have been friends for years until an incident that happened twenty years ago changed it. Even though they are friends they aren’t as close as they once were as Patti moved away to escape her past.
However the past is now coming back to haunt the women and they now need each other to get through this.
Could a incident that happened 20 years ago change their lifes today? Can their relationship survive going through that trauma all over again or will this time be breaking point for their friendship

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson-Review by Elena Tobar

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These are two beautiful stories full of hope and heartfelt emotion that you won’t want to miss. I really enjoyed the world that the author creates as she is setting up the background for the series. These are two different stories that meld together seamlessly. The author has a way of creating such vivid pictures with her words that you become totally immersed in the story. I was swept away by the depth of connection between Norah and Giovanni and the beautiful family history woven throughout. Both of these stories have amazing characters in them that had me hooked from the very first page and very eager to delve into the series.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Jerricka Brown

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was amazing. This is not my first book by this author but I was blown away with this one. I was pulled into this book from the very beginning. I kept wanting more as I was reading. I related to this book while thinking about my past. I highly recommend it.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Felicia Bates

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Depending on You is most definitely a 5 star read. I grew up in a small town and my adulthood friends are the same women that I have known since elementary school. The bonds in this book meant a lot to me and while my best friends and I have not dealt with what Cate or Patti endured, I felt that their friendship was so relatable.
I can’t really say anything to do this book justice. There are so many elements but the biggest take away is in the meaning of friendship and family, blood or not.
The story really had depth and the storyline flowed seamlessly. I was really drawn to the writing from the very start and I was along for the ride through every bend in the road. I always enjoy when authors alternate between perspectives of the main characters so seeing the story through both women’s eyes was another element of the book I appreciated. Every character in this book was enjoyable and had the potential to tug at your heartstrings. I could literally go on forever. I loved this book. And it wouldn’t be a review of a Jessica Aiken Hall book if I didn’t mention how much I appreciated that she tied in her love for Tom Petty within the storyline as well!

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Angela Packard

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Two stories in one, both prequels to the Logan McKenna Mystery series. Bella: An Appalachian Love Story, I loved reading about the hardships of a time so long ago. Being raised by her grandfather, which I can relate to as my grandmother raised me, Norah, finds happiness in the things her Aunt Leila taught her medicinally and her grandfather taught her musically. To be given a gift of a $7.00 violin from the Sears catalog was an amazing for Norah. I loved the way the story went from past to present, giving so much background and history.
Jagged Dawn: Logan’s beginnings, we meet Logan McKenna, the great granddaughter of Norah. Can Logan fight through all the ups and downs and have some new beginnings? And what is in the mysterious package?
I love the strong characters in these two prequels and cling to the fact that we can prevail through anything.

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book has two beautiful stories full of hope and inspiration. Both characters face challenges yet they both overcome. The details are described in such a way that a clear picture just forms in your head. The stories are well written. The characters are so beautiful done (very relatable). You just can’t stop the stories once you start. I highly recommend.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Shannon Fowler

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really liked this story. While the writing was easy to read the subject matter was a little difficult. And sometimes difficult is what we need. We need to discuss the difficult things in life. We need to discuss and then find a way to move on and live. “The whole part of living is finding people worth risking it all for.” I believe Cate and Patti have found that connection.

The women have a secret. However, not all secrets are good. Secrets can cause hurt and suffering. They certainly cause more confusion and misunderstanding. Patti and Cate learn this but after 20 years. This story tells about their secret, how it gets discovered and the consequences of having kept it quiet for so long.

“Sometimes the greatest tragedies are followed by the greatest joy.” Patti and Cate’s greatest joy comes many years later in life. I believe their friendship and re-discovery is their greatest joy.

I can definitely recommend this author and this story.

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Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks

Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Nakyshia Leger

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book roped me in quick and I didn’t look back! Definitely a thrilling page turner. Cate and Patti share a secret that keeps them tied forever. One night changed everything for them when a man died. Even though they have been separated, when the case is reopened, they find their way back together in a time of need!

This story is so well developed! The author has an amazing attention to detail that really fits all the pieces together and builds the characters and story perfectly. It’s a beautiful story of friendship with just enough twists to keep you guessing. This fast paced, action filled book is a perfect read for everyone!

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Stephanie nicole

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I began these wonderful stories and it was so amazing, and perfect that I finished it in one sitting. Both stories were full of amazing characters, love, dreams, hope, and sacrifice. The writing was just purely amazing the author did such a wonderful job capturing their audience and taking us on an emotional ride through her story. While the two stories were connected, they were also both unique in their own way. But in the long run they both flowed together beautifully and naturally, so if your looking for a great new author to try or a new story to read then pick this one up today.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Katie Matthews

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve read quite a few books by this author now and I always enjoy her writing but I think this is probably my absolute favourite book by her. I was completely gripped by what I was reading, the story was engaging, the characters likeable – I honestly loved every single second of it. Cate and Patti’s relationship was the true meaning of friendship – they clearly meant so much to each other and it was really heart-warming how they were there for each other throughout the story. There were so really great twists and turns in the plot for this story which kept me engaged form beginning to end.
Overall a fantastic read and one that I would highly recommend!

@katiem
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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Amy Brennan

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can say without hesitation that I most certainly shed a couple tears during the love story of Norah, and Giovanni, and the connection that can only be shared by those with familial ties. I have experienced a couple of great losses within the last couple years and felt the emotions that this author wanted to convey on an even higher level. The artistry she includes within her writing style to allow the reader to fall deep into the Appalachian hills, the scenery described, and the lifestyle all hit the mark for me, and I couldn’t put it down.

Jagged Dawn brought to light this authors ability to really make you feel the main characters, their hopes, and wants, and dreams, and understand what a person will do and what they can withstand when they MUST. It ended a little abruptly, in turn, however, makes me want to read more! To me, both novella and the short story expressed hope, want, need, love, care, and understanding, as well as an independence of the characters that is both admired and envied. I have yet to read any of her other written works, but very much look forward to doing so soon. Looking for a quick, emotion-filled read? Pick this up, I’m sure you will enjoy it as much as I did.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Karyn Taylor

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reading this book made me realise that I don’t read enough crime books anymore and need to read more. This was a new author to me and I was unsure what to expect, but I really enjoyed her writing style. The story flowed well and had me engaged from the very beginning, right up to the end.
Reading about Cate and Patti made me wish that I had a friendship like theirs. These 2 women are totally devoted to one another and have the most amazing friendship ever.
If this book is anything to go by, then this author has an amazing knack of writing fantastic characters. I absolutely adored both Patti and Cate, Along with those two, Patti’s Mum and Cate’s Dad are both characters that I really enjoyed reading about. You could also add Jake and Andrew to this although they don’t play as large a role as the others.
This book is gripping and just when you think you know what’s going on, the author throws you a curveball and the story twists. There are quite a few twists and turns and I have to say that I definitely did not predict the ending.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to other readers.

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