Review ~ The Highland Heist (A Freddie and Grace Mystery #4) by Pepper Basham

 

About the Book

Lord Astley surprises his wife with a trip to America to see her family before they end their honeymoon adventures. But just as they arrive, they find Grace's sister, Lillias, is the prime suspect in her husband's murder. To add to the confusion a solicitor arrives to tell the sister's they are needed in Scotland immediately to claim their mother's inheritance.

The clock is ticking to clear Lillias of suspicion, but someone is determined to keep the sisters from reaching the Scottish Highlands. When Lillias disappears, Freddie and Grace race to Scotland, sure the answers will be found in a long-forgotten castle.

With a ghost from Frederick's past leaving threatening clues along the way, the mysterious Mr. Kane waiting in the wings to grab the inheritance for himself, and an apparition haunting the infamous castle, Lord and Lady Astley must capture the castle, save Lillias, and not die in the process.

The Highland Heist is a Freddie and Grace Mystery, sequel to The Mistletoe Countess, The Cairo Curse, and The Juliet Code.

320 pages, Paperback

Published July 1, 2025 by Barbour Fiction

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My Review 4.5 STARS!!!

Freddie and Grace are one of the MOST fun couples in CF as far as I’m concerned. The exploits, especially Grace’s, made me laugh out loud and I might have caught myself giving an occasional eye roll (all in a good way, of course).

The pacing in this story was enough to make me feel like I had a workout! Gallivanting around takes on new meaning in The Highland Heist. Along with a good, strong faith theme (which I always appreciate) the mystery kept me wondering whodunit, and of course the dialogue was one of the delightful aspects of reading this story.

I highly recommend this series. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Have you read this book, or this series yet? If so, what did you think?

Basham writes across genres and is one of the MOST talented and gifted writers I've read that can actually pull it off! Check out her books on her website here: Pepper D Basham  

Review ~ Hope Like Wildflowers by Pepper Basham

 

Barbour Books ~ Oct 1, 2024 ~ 320 Pages ~ Paperback

Book 2 of 2: My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge

About the Book

Kizzie McAdams spent her childhood longing to see beyond the mountains of home, but when her job as a servant in a landowner’s house results in an unplanned pregnancy, her world tips into uncertainty and heartbreak. Disowned by her father, she seeks comfort in the arms of the man who promises to take care of her, but his support is conditional and inconsistent. She finds acceptance in the home of a nearby family who not only offer Kizzie friendship but point her to a deeper understanding of God’s love.

Despite her change of heart, her status as a social outcast brings with it continued threats and alienation so she flees her past in hopes of starting over in a nearby town. But her new world carries many of the same prejudices as the old. It also brings the unexpected friendship of businessman Noah Lewis, a man who lives with the same desire as Kizzie for helping the marginalized.

Unfortunately, Kizzie and Noah’s attempts to help those in need pit them against Noah’s elder brother, a powerful mill owner who holds control of the family finances. Is Kizzie and Noah’s growing romance strong enough to battle family power, social expectations, and Kizzie’s past to capture their happy ending? And when Kizzie’s first love returns to claim her, which future will she choose?  

Purchase: Barbour Books

     Amazon

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My Review 4.5 STARS

Basham once again shows the strength, determination, and resilience that mountain folk are made of. Kizzie is a young woman dreaming of love and romance, and her journey to discovering just who the greatest Love of her life will be is one fraught with poor choices. Anyone who has been redeemed from such a life will surely feel a deep kinship with Kizzie, and her heartaches and triumphs will resonate deeply. Based on her own family history going back generations, Basham captures the sheer will Kizzie needed to continue on, and how when we surrender to God, he brings beauty from the ashes. 

Hope Like Wildflowers is such a rewarding read, filled with characters who draw out every emotion. I highly recommend it to anyone who is a fan of historical fiction, or just good writing! 

I appreciate Barbour Publishing providing me a copy for review purposes. This opinion is my own. No compensation received. 

~Happy Reading~

Review ~ The Girl from the Hidden Forest by Hannah Linder

 

The nightmares may free her…but destroy the man she loves.  Enjoy another Gothic Style Regency from Hannah Linder.   Eliza Ellis has stayed hidden in Balfour Forest for as long as she can remember. Perhaps her only friends are the trees, or her little dog, or her story-telling father called Captain. But at least she is safe from the cruel world outside, a world Captain has warned her against and protected her from.   That is, until a handsome stranger named Felton Northwood invades her quiet forest and steals her away. Why does he tell such lies? Why does he insist that her name is Miss Eliza Gillingham, daughter of a viscount, who disappeared fourteen years ago after the murder of her own mother? A murder Eliza is said to have witnessed.   When Felton returns Eliza to Monbury Manor and reunites her with a man who is told to be her father, all she remembers are the strange nightmares that have plagued her since childhood. Why have they suddenly grown worse? Are the answers hidden inside her own mind?   As danger mounts and lethal attempts are made on her life, Eliza and Felton must work together to uncover the identity of a killer who has stayed silent for fourteen years. When she finally uncovers the horrendous memories trapped in her mind, will divulging the truth cost her the man she loves—and both of their lives?

Purchase: Barbour Books

I am not an affiliate with Barbour Books and make no money if you use the link provided to purchase a copy. It is a courtesy only.

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My Review 3.5 STARS

The Girl from the Hidden Forest is labeled on the front cover, ‘A Regency Novel’. I didn’t get that vibe at all. I found it to be an extremely dark gothic novel with a few sick and twisted characters, supposedly set in the Regency period in England. The author is obviously talented in weaving a compelling story for many readers as evidenced in other reviews.

I’m seeing a trend in Christian fiction as far as faith goes. I’m not saying I want to be preached to in a story; I don’t. But I do like a little more substance than the occasional three or four word ‘prayer’. And Eliza should have had lasting mental issues after what she endured. I’d have liked to have seen more about that. I thought it was glossed over at the end and Felton’s love for her fixed it all.

I’ll recommend it to readers because I know there are a lot of people who will like it, and probably won’t be able to put it down because the whodunit is quite intriguing. That is what kept me reading. I really wanted to know who killed Eliza’s mother! And that was a humdinger.

I appreciate Barbour Publishing providing me a copy for review purposes. This opinion is my own. No compensation received.

Let me know what you think of it if you've read it.  :-)

Or if you have a favorite gothic novel to recommend!

~Anne~

Review ~ The Juliet Code (A Freddie & Grace Mystery #3) by Pepper Basham

 

Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley Finally Reach Their Honeymoon Destination Only to Encounter a New Mystery in Need of Solving
 
Frederick and Grace Percy finally make it to Italy to enjoy a delayed honeymoon and explore the beauties of the historic city of Venice. To their surprise, their friend, Detective Jack Miracle, is also in the city, investigating a series of art heists starting at the house of eccentric millionaire, Laraby Covington. Drawn into a world of boat races, mysterious houses, and parties of the rich and unusual in Venice, Frederick and Grace learn of the existence of the Juliet paintings, (Renaissance paintings feature Shakespeare’s tragic heroine) rumored to hold a secret code to an underground vault of similarly treasured artwork assumed lost over the centuries. As Freddie and Grace are pulled deeper into the mystery and their beloved Detective Jack disappears, can they use their wits and work as a team to find the thieves and Jack before it’s too late. 
 
The Juliet Code is a Freddie and Grace Mystery, sequel to The Mistletoe Countess and The Cairo Curse.

 

My Review 4 STARS

“If Frederick wanted to shower his wife with the types of presents she loved best on this honeymoon, the answer came clear and evident. No expensive jewelry or extravagant gifts for her.      

But near-death experiences and daring adventures? His shoulders dropped for a moment. Well, at least he didn’t have to try and wrap them.”                                                                                                                           

What a way to spend your honeymoon!

Freddie and Grace show their enthusiasm for sleuthing in slightly different ways, which made a riveting read. Grace is eager to help solve this mystery of the missing paintings and the thought of hidden treasure...well, what fiction aficionado wouldn’t want to be in on that? Freddie, on the other hand, is a bit more tempered outwardly but inwardly he really does enjoy their mystery solving exploits. The Juliet Code is an artful concoction of adventure with a delightful cast of characters.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ Man of Shadow & Mist (Of Monsters and Men, 2) by Michelle Griep

 

Barbour Fiction, 320 Pages (Paperback)

“The world seems full of good men—even if there are monsters in it.”

–Bram Stoker, Dracula

England, 1890

Vampires are alive and well in North Yorkshire, leastwise in the minds of the uneducated. Librarian Rosa Edwards intends to drive a stake through the heart of such superstitions. But gossip flies when the mysterious Sir James Morgan returns to his shadowy manor. The townsfolk say he is cursed.

James hates everything about England. The weather. The rumours. The scorn. Yet he must stay. His mother is dying of a disease for which he’s desperately trying to find a cure—an illness that will eventually take his own life.

When Rosa sets out to prove the dark gossip about James is wrong, she discovers more questions than answers. How can she accept what she can’t explain—especially the strong allure of the enigmatic man? James must battle a town steeped in fear as well as the unsettling attraction he feels for the no-nonsense librarian.

Can love prevail in a town filled with fear and doubt?

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My Review ~ 5 STARS

Griep has written another absolutely riviting page turner! Man of Shadow & Mist is one of the highlights of my reading this year. I could not put this book down and devoured it as if it was a chocolate candy bar in front of me.

With a fascinating plot and deep spiritual truths, any fan of Grieps will enjoy spending a few hours immersed in this book. I may have been a little more entranced by the story because when I was in high school I had a small speaking part in the play (Dracula) that our drama dept put on. It was such fun! Reading this semi re-telling brought back many good memories of one of my favorite electives.

James was trying so hard to find a cure for his mother and subsequently himself. My heart hurt for him for all the cruelty he’d been subjected to by the town people. His moment of surrender to the Lord and recognizing God’s sovereignty over even this brought tears to my eyes.

Rosa is such a lovely young woman who sees beyond the gossip. She has a bit of trepidation toward James early on however, she doesn’t believe the myths and folklore about vampires so she stands strong and befriends him.

Griep found a way to bring a shining light in deep darkness and has once again solidified her place in gothic fiction. I highly recommend this book!

I received an early copy from the author and publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. No compensation has been received. This is my opinion of the book.

Review ~ The Heart of the Mountains by Pepper Basham

 

JULY 1st 2022

BARBOUR PUBLISHING

About the Book: To escape a forced marriage, Cora Taylor travels from England to the *Blue Ridge Mountains in search of her brother, who is working as a teacher in a mission school. She hopes to find a place where her nursing skills and independent ideas will be accepted and appreciated, but nothing prepares her for the wild mixture of isolation, community, brokenness, and hope within these mountains…or in the person of Jeb McAdams.

Returning from the devastation of World War 1 emotionally damaged, Jeb McAdams struggles against the rampant mountain alcoholism to soothe his nightmares. It’s easy to hide within the mountains, or it was, before Cora Taylor arrives. Now, she seems to show up at every turn, bringing her ideas, curiosity, and beautiful eyes with her. Their mutual understanding of the costs of war leads to an unspoken bond that develops into a hesitant friendship. As Cora turns her nursing experience and determination on establishing hygiene and education for women in the Appalachian community while also attempting to rescue Jeb from his own ghosts, Cora and Jeb’s partnership turns into a project of celebrating the gifts within Appalachia. But when the past sweeps back into their lives and an outbreak of scarlet fever threatens the future, will Cora and Jeb find a way to work together – even if it means unplanned matrimony – or will their different lives and brokenness tear them apart.

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My Review 5 STARS

‘As she stepped from the house, her bag in hand, she looked back over her shoulder. Their gazes held for a few seconds as the door closed, and Jeb knew, sure as shootin’, he was ready to take all this lip itchin’ and put it into action.’

If you know anything about pivotal moments in romance novels, the heroine looking back at the hero is important. Cora definitely looks back. J She and Jeb are one of the best “on paper” couples. I did so love the interaction between them, their obvious differences and yet some striking similarities.

Basham is queen when it comes to writing Christian historical romance, in my opinion. Ticking all the boxes for me—witty dialogue, satisfying character growth, uncertainty and bravery, laugh-out-loud humor and lots of strong emotion—this novel made for a riveting story, along with lovable and not-so-lovable secondary characters.

I will journey time and again to my beloved Appalachian Mountains and immerse myself in whatever story this author writes. She brings the essence of the mountain folk to life with entertaining vernacular while painting lovely word pictures of the sights and sounds of life in Appalachia!

Historical fiction with deep faith encircles these mountain folks. Fans of this genre will be deeply satisfied and left longing for more stories set in The Heart of the Mountains.

I received an early copy of the book in electronic form from the author. I was under no obligation to write a review.

*Y'all might want to read My Heart Belongs in the Blue Ridge: Laurel's Dream as it has characters that overlap in this novel. It's FREE to read on Kindle Unlimited. 

Review ~ Amish Friends 4 Seasons Cookbook by Wanda Brunstetter

 

About the Book

Fresh Recipes for Each Season of the Year
Do you strive to eat what local, fresh, and in season? Then this is the cookbook for you. Organized by the winter, spring, summer, and fall seasons, there are a bounty of recipes for various ways to use up seasonal fruits and vegetables. Sprinkled with tips for growing and harvesting, too, the well-organized book boasts contributions from Amish and Mennonites from across the United States who are fans of author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, it is a must-have cookbook for anyone who gardens, participates in a CSA, or enjoys farmers’ markets.

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My Review 4.5 STARS

It being close to summer, I decided to try making the recipe that most closely resembles my favorite summertime dessert, Peach Cobbler. The recipe in Amish Friends 4 Seasons Cookbook I chose to make is entitled Peach Cream Pie (pg. 78) and let me tell you it is sooooo good! I used fresh peaches, following the recipe exactly as written which for me is unusual. I admit I am a canned peach person but the pie was sweet and tasty and had a custard-like filling that made my mouth water! I served it to our family after dinner and I must be honest and say that only two out of five of us liked it but we also are the only two that also like custard. I’m sure that’s a texture thing. ;)

I also made Baked Oatmeal (pg. 179), using the suggestion to add canned Blueberries to the bottom of the dish before putting in the oatmeal mixture. Oh. My. I will be making this again. Both recipes were easy to prepare and quite tasty. The cookbook has a spiral binding which makes it easy to fold back and not have to worry about it falling over or anything like that. Lots of pretty color photos of food dishes for all seasons of the year too!

If you’re looking for simple recipes and some down home comfort food, look no further! I’m planning on trying more of these scrumptious looking recipes as the year goes on. I also think this would be a fairly easy cookbook for a beginner cook.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ The Little Women Devotional by Rachel Dodge

Devotional Inspiration from the Lives of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy
 
The Little Women Devotional offers lovely inspiration that explores the themes of faith, family, contentment, wisdom, and joy in the classic Louisa May Alcott novel, cherished by generations of readers.
Each reading corresponds with a chapter from the book and invites you to embrace God’s guiding hand in your life as His cherished daughter. This beautiful chapter-by-chapter devotional includes original artwork throughout, and each reading includes examples from the novel, scripture, life application, and prayers perfect for groups, book clubs, or personal reflection.

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My Review 4 STARS
Dodge has written a darling companion devotional based on one of my most favorite classic novels, Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. One of the sweetest things about this devotional is the lovely art work! Faith and family are integral in this devotional, making it one I recommend whether you are a fan of the classic novel or not.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Review ~ Amish Friends Baking Cookbook by Wanda E. Brunstetter

Barbour Books, August 31st 2021

224 Pages

Delightful Baked Goods from Dozens of Amish Kitchens 

 

Fresh-baked buns or cookies waiting for a child’s after-school snack is a delight many of us remember from our own mothers’ and grandmothers’ kitchens. You can now share the joy of baking for and with your own family through dozens of recipes provided by Amish bakers. Ideas for breads, rolls, cakes, cookies, and more will keep you busy taste testing and sharing all the goodies. Also included are step-by-step instructions, baking tips, and anecdotes from Amish bakers. Encased in a lay-flat binding and presented in full color, home bakers of all ages will be delighted to add this cookbook to their collections.

 

This is a must-have cookbook for anyone with a soft spot for baked goods, from New York Times bestselling author of Amish fiction, Wanda E. Brunstetter.

Purchase:

Amazon

*I am NOT affiliated with any vendors. Purchase links are for your convenience only. 

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My Review 5 STARS

If you’ve never bought one of Brunstetter’s Amish cookbooks, you are missing out on some delicious recipes!! Grab a good sturdy wooden spoon and get ready to make some of the tastiest baked goods you can imagine.

One of my favorite recipes is Baked Oatmeal. It can be as simple as the printed recipe in the book or you can jazz it up with fresh fruit. Our favorite way to enjoy it is with fresh Blueberries either placed into the bottom of the pan before pouring the oatmeal mixture over top, or tossing a few plump ones on top of the finished product! MmmMmm!!!

I plan on trying my hand at several more recipes, especially the White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake since that is my all-time favorite flavor of Cheesecake! It actually looks fairly easy to make. I was surprised that the baker recommends using a handheld mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth but hey, I’m all for electricity! LOL

I received a copy of this beautifully presented cookbook from the publisher with no expectation of a review.

❤️ It's Release Day!!! ❤️

Happy Book Release Day to Pepper Basham!!!

Y'all do NOT want to miss reading The Mistletoe Countess!!! It exceeded every expectation I had!

Come over and read my review on Amazon here and then grab a copy today.

I am not affiliated with Amazon and make no money if you order from them. The link is provided as a courtesy only.

Review ~ A Bible Study Journal for Women compiled by Barbour Staff

 BARBOUR BOOKS / 2021 / PAPERBACK

Description

You want more from your time alone with scripture. . .
A Bible Study Journal for Women provides helpful instruction
and ample space for you to jot down your reflections.
 
Based on the million-copy bestseller How to Study the Bible, this journal describes the types, tools, and techniques of exploring God’s Word. And it allows you to share your thoughts and feelings along the way, creating a treasured record of your own walk with God.
 
A Bible Study Journal for Women is presented in a beautiful package featuring

• a flexible textured binding
• two-color interior printing
• stained page edges
• a ribbon marker

Here are everyday Bible helps for everyday spiritual growth.

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My Review 5 STARS!!!

I don't know about you but I love journals! This one is beautifully bound and has plenty of space for writing down questions and/or reflections while studying the Bible. It gives a helpful over view on how to prepare to study your Bible, discovering what the Bible means, particular study methods and useful study helps.  

I especially liked the emphasis in the beginning on preparing our hearts; being dependent on God and purposeful in our approach. It is all too often easy for me to rush to study and rush through study. This journal is a good stepping stone in my preparation and approach to study time. I'm using it to also journal my prayer beforehand. Visually, this journal is also aesthetically pleasing with its floral design and pink edged pages. I highly recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

Do you use a journal during Bible study time? If so, what kind do you have? 

Review ~ Hope Between the Pages by Pepper Basham

 

Uncover the Story Behind a One-Hundred-Year-Old Love Letter

Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure.

Clara Blackwell can’t lose her family’s one-hundred-year-old bookshop, but with the deed missing, there’s a chance her father’s legacy could fall into the hands of her greedy uncle. In an attempt to locate the missing deed, Clara uncovers an unusual love note which leads to the discovery of a long-lost romance. Forced to step outside her predictable bookish world, Clara embarks on an adventure with only the name Oliver as a hint of the man’s identity in her great grandmother’s unknown history. From the beautiful North Carolina Vanderbilt estate to a hamlet in The Lake District, England, can Clara put the pieces of an ill-fated romance together in order to save her bookshop…and maybe even find her own bookish happily-ever-after in the process?

Visit Pepper @ https://pepperdbasham.com/hope-between-the-pages/

My Review ~ 5 STARS

"God allows us the gift of memories to tide us over to eternity."

Oliver and Sadie just became two of my newest literary favorites! Their story is grand and beautifully sad at the same time. My heart wept from the poignancy of a love that lived on beyond the physical.

"Keep to your Bible and to your fairy tales, sweet girl. One is for your soul and the other is for your daydreams. Both will help you through this, and in both you'll find your story."

Max and Clara are brought together as Clara seeks answers about her bookshop, and in the seeking discovers love. Upon first encounter with Max, his damaged soul burrowed deep and I knew I loved him. Together, they bring hope–and healing–between the pages.

"I've given up enough of my life to fear. I don't want to lose anymore."
Almost exactly what her mom had said to her. She and Max were more alike that she'd realized. Perhaps that was why they understood each other so well.
"And...when you're with someone who sees beyond the scars, then the scars don't seem as large anymore."
Neither does the fear.

Basham has dipped her proverbial ink pen into dual-time fiction and I must say, not a drop is wasted. Anyone who has read her individual historical and contemporary works knows that passion flows liberally and not just the romantic kind. There is so much I could say about this book but I’ll just say this —Hope Between the Pages is a truly beautiful dual love story that fans will want to put on their keeper shelf!

I received an electronic copy of the book for review purposes but I also purchased a paperback for my keeper shelf. No review was required. No compensation received.

Review ~ Know Your Bible Journal for Women from Barbour Publishing

 

About the Book:

You want the most from your time alone with scripture. . .
this Know Your Bible Journal for Women provides both simple guidance and ample space for you to jot down your reflections.

Based on the three-million-copy bestseller Know Your Bible, this journal describes the who, what, when, where, and why of each biblical book. And it allows you to share your thoughts and feelings, creating a treasured record of your own walk with God.
 
The Know Your Bible Journal for Women is presented in a beautiful package featuring

·  a flexible textured binding

·  two-color interior printing

·  stained page edges

·  a ribbon marker

Here are everyday Bible helps for everyday spiritual growth.

My Review ~ 5 STARS

Know Your Bible Journal for Women is fabulous! I have enjoyed the relaxed manner of this journal. Each book of the Bible can be explored as much or as little as you desire with six prompts—In Ten Words or Less; Details, Please; Author and Date; Quotable; Unique and Unusual; So What?—and plenty of writing space. The decorative pages are encased in a lovely and very durable softcover that is equally attractive.

One of my favorite ‘prompts’ is the Details, Please. I’ve recently begun to look a little closer at the details of each book and this gives me a concise, pointed view. But I have to say that each prompt encourages thought and exploration, and you can even write (or draw if that is your thing) your questions down to ponder on. I’m a journaler and love it!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review.

First Line Friday ~ Hope Between the Pages

Award-winning author Pepper Basham is dipping her pen into dual-time with Hope Between the Pages.

About the Book 

Uncover the Story Behind a One-Hundred-Year-Old Love Letter

Walk through Doors to the Past via a new series of historical stories of romance and adventure.

Clara Blackwell helps her mother manage a struggling one-hundred-year old family bookshop in Asheville, North Carolina, but the discovery of a forgotten letter opens a mystery of a long-lost romance and undiscovered inheritance which could save its future. Forced to step outside of her predictable world, Clara embarks on an adventure with only the name Oliver as a hint of the man’s identity in her great-great-grandmother’s letter. From the nearby grand estate of the Vanderbilts, to a hamlet in Derbyshire, England, Clara seeks to uncover truth about family and love that may lead to her own unexpected romance.

Expected publication date is April 1.

Preorder @ Christian Book 

Follow Stuff & Nonsense to see our reviews of this highly anticipated read!

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