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Blowing on Dandelions

21 Oct

Blowing on Dandelions

Blowing on Dandelions by Miralee Ferrell

Synopsis:

Do Dandelion Wishes Actually Come True?
 
Katherine Galloway knew this moment of calm wouldn’t last, blown away like the dandelion seeds she scattered as a girl. In 1880, three years after her husband’s death, she struggles to run an Oregon boardinghouse and raise two girls alone. Things don’t get easier when her critical, domineering mother moves in. Katherine must make the situation work, but standing up for herself and her family while honoring her mother isn’t easy. And with a daughter entering the teenage years, the pressure on Katherine becomes close to overwhelming. Then she crosses paths with Micah Jacobs, a widower who could reignite her heart, but she fears a relationship with him might send things over the edge. She must find the strength, wisdom, hope, and faith to remake her life, for everything is about to change.

Thoughts:

Blowing on Dandelions will capture your heart with the very first page and won’t let go until the last page has been turned. Even then, the story will linger and leave you eagerly anticipating the next book in the Love Blossoms in Oregon series.

The characters that come and go through the Oregon boardinghouse each have a unique story. Miralee Ferrell does a wonderful job creating rich characters and vivid descriptions. The emotions she so eloquently portrays will warm your heart and inspire you.

Blowing on Dandelions is a beautiful story of strength, determination, faith, hope, and love!

I highly recommend Blowing on Dandelions and can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in this series, Wishing on Buttercups, which releases in February 2014.

Please join me Wednesday for an Author Spotlight on Miralee Ferrell.  If her schedule permits, she will be dropping by during the day, so please feel free to leave comments.

* I was privileged to receive a copy of this book through a giveaway on the author’s website. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and no monetary compensation was received.

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Prairie Song

18 Oct

Prairie Song

Prairie Song by Mona Hodgson

Synopsis:

The first step in a challenging journey is often the one that means the most.

Though it means saying goodbye to the beloved friends and spiritual mentors of her St. Charles, Missouri quilting circle, Anna Goben is certain that she needs to enlist her family in the Boone’s Lick Company wagon train. The loss of her beloved brother in the Civil War has paralyzed her mother and grandfather in a malaise of grief and depression and Anna is convinced that only a fresh start in the Promised Land of California can bring her family back to her. Although the unknown perils of the trail west loom, Anna’s commitment to caring for her loved ones leaves no room for fear—or even loving someone new.

During the five-month journey, trail hand Caleb Reger plans to keep a low profile as he watches over the band of travelers. Guarding secrets about his past and avoiding God’s calling on his life, Caleb wants to steer as far from Anna as she does him, but she proves to be just as he assessed her from the beginning— independent, beautiful trouble.

Led by a pillar of hope, the group faces rough terrain that begins to take a toll on their spirits. Will the wilderness of suffering lead them astray, or will the gentle song of love that echoes across the prairie turn their hearts toward God’s grace and the promise of a new home?

Thoughts:

Prairie Song is the first book in Mona Hodgson’s Hearts Seeking Home series.  The novel, set in St. Charles, Missouri in 1866, begins a journey across the country with Boone’s Lick Company wagon train.  Before you head west, I encourage you to read The Quilted Heart novellas.  These prequel novellas introduce you to the diverse cast of characters. 

After the Civil War, some residents choose to remain in St. Charles.  Others bid farewell to their family and friends and head toward the Promised Land of California.  Their journey is full of trials and tribulation, but faith and hope keep them moving forward.

In Prairie Song, Mona Hodgson paints a vivid picture of life on the prairie.  Life on the wagon train is filled with dreams, but also fraught with despair.  When fears arise, faith overcomes.  The spiritual thread, woven so beautifully into this story, adds to its richness and depth.

Being introduced to the characters in the novellas, I felt like I was catching up with old friends as I read Prairie Song.  I loved this beautiful, heartfelt novel and look forward to continuing the journey through the Hearts Seeking Home series.  Prairie Song is a journey you don’t want to miss!

Biography:

Married forty-one years to her leading man, Mona from Arizona lives in the Southwest where trees have arms instead of branches and salsa is a staple. When Mona Hodgson isn’t writing or speaking, she’s playing Wii games with her Arizona grandson, spending time with her mom, picnicking, texting her sisters, or chatting on Skype with her grandchildren in Africa.

Mona Hodgson is the author of nearly 40 books, historical novels for adults and children’s books, including her popular Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series, The Quilted Heart novellas, and Hearts Seeking Home Series. Her children’s books include bestseller, Bedtime in the Southwest, six desert and princess Zonderkidz I Can Read books, Real Girls of the Bible: A 31-Day Devotional, and her six I Wonder books. Mona’s writing credits also include several hundred articles, poems and short stories, which have appeared in 50 different publications. Mona is a speaker for women’s groups, Christian women’s retreats, book clubs and reading groups, schools, and conferences for writers and librarians.

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Dandelions On The Wind

14 Oct

Dandelions On The Wind

Dandelions On The Wind by Mona Hodgson

Synopsis:

Tattered relationships and broken hearts, like a quilt, can be pieced together by God’s love.

When Maren Jensen took a job on Elsa Brantenberg’s St. Charles, Missouri farm, she never expected to call the place her home. As she grows to love Mrs. Brantenberg and her granddaughter, Gabi, Maren is transformed from a lonely mail-order bride-without-a-groom to a beloved member of the Brantenberg household.

But when Gabi’s father, Rutherford “Wooly” Wainwright, returns to the farm unexpectedly, everything changes for Maren. Despite the failing eyesight that caused her suitor to reject her, she can see that Wooly desperately needs to reconnect with the family he abandoned when his grief sent him running toward the army—and into the Civil War. She also senses there could be something more between the widower and herself, if either can move beyond their past hurts. 

Comforted and counseled by the wisdom of the women in her beloved quilting circle, Maren begins to discover the cost such decisions demand of her heart. Are her choices in obedience to God, or is she running from His plan? Is it too late for love to be stitched into the fabric of her life?

 
Thoughts:

Dandelions On The Wind is the first of three novellas in The Quilted Heart stories.  These prequel novellas introduce wonderful characters in Mona Hodgson’s Hearts Seeking Home series.
 
I immediately fell in love with the characters of this story:

Mrs. Brantenberg, an aging woman of faith
Gabi, a little girl full of charm
Maren, a young woman whose eyesight is diminishing
“Woolly”, the prodigal son-in-law

 
Dandelions On The Wind is a wonderful story of faith and love, told through vivid imagery.  Though the years of war have been trying, Mrs. Brantenberg and the members of her household are trying to live each day by faith rather than fear.  Find out where their journey leads in Mona’s Hearts Seeking Home series. 

The Quilted Heart Novella 1:  Dandelions On The Wind
The Quilted Heart Novella 2:  Bending Toward The Sun
The Quilted Heart Novella 3:  Ripples Along The Shore 

 
Biography:

Married forty-one years to her leading man, Mona from Arizona lives in the Southwest where trees have arms instead of branches and salsa is a staple. When Mona Hodgson isn’t writing or speaking, she’s playing Wii games with her Arizona grandson, spending time with her mom, picnicking, texting her sisters, or chatting on Skype with her grandchildren in Africa.
 
Mona Hodgson is the author of nearly 40 books, historical novels for adults and children’s books, including her popular Sinclair Sisters of Cripple Creek Series, The Quilted Heart novellas, and Hearts Seeking Home Series. Her children’s books include bestseller, Bedtime in the Southwest, six desert and princess Zonderkidz I Can Read books, Real Girls of the Bible: A 31-Day Devotional, and her six I Wonder books. Mona’s writing credits also include several hundred articles, poems and short stories, which have appeared in 50 different publications. Mona is a speaker for women’s groups, Christian women’s retreats, book clubs and reading groups, schools, and conferences for writers and librarians.

The-Quilted-Heart-Omnibus
From the author:
On January 21, WaterBrook Multnomah will release Dandelions on the Wind, Bending Toward the Sun, and Ripples Along the Shore as a print omnibus–three novellas in one book.

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Roping the Wrangler

26 Sep

Roping The Wrangler

Roping the Wrangler (Wyoming Legacy Series) by Lacy Williams

Synopsis:

Schoolmarm Sarah Hansen longs for a family of her own. But horse trainer Oscar White is the last man she’d consider. Still, she can’t help noticing the care he shows three motherless girls and the gentle way he helps Sarah overcome her fear of horses.

Too bossy by half—that’s the Sarah that Oscar remembers from their teenage years. Yet as a former orphan, he finds the little Caldwell sisters—and their pretty teacher—getting under his skin. Could the tender heart Sarah’s always hidden tame a once-reckless wrangler?

Thoughts:

Roping the Wrangler was my first Lacy Williams book but it certainly won’t be my last.  I loved Lacy’s attention to details, rich characters, and vivid descriptions.

If you love an Old West series full of heart-warming heroes, this is a series for you!

“Welcome to Bear Creek, Wyoming—where faith, love and family prevail!”

An introduction to this series can be found in the novella, Courted by a Cowboy.

Book 1: Roping the Wrangler

Book 2: Return of the Cowboy Doctor, releases in December 

Biography:

By day, Lacy Williams is a stay-at-home mom battling dirty diapers and dog-hair dust-bunnies. By night, she is an award-winning novelist.  Lacy combines a love of dogs with her passion for literacy by volunteering with her therapy dog, Mr. Bingley, in a local reading program. Her current projects include more books for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Historical line (cowboys!). Lacy loves to hear from her readers at lacyjwilliams@gmail.com or via her website http://www.lacywilliams.net
Courted by a Cowboy

 

On Amazon, you can currently find the Kindle edition of the novella, Courted by a Cowboy,  for $1.99.   

 
 

* I won a copy of this book through the Goodreads First Reads program.  All thoughts expressed are my own.

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Made to Last

16 Sep

Made to Last

Made to Last by Melissa Tagg

Synopsis:

Miranda Woodruff has it all. At least, that’s how it looks when she’s starring in her homebuilding television show, From the Ground Up. So when her network begins to talk about making cuts, she’ll do anything to boost ratings and save her show–even if it means pretending to be married to a man who’s definitely not the fiance who ran out on her three years ago.

When a handsome reporter starts shadowing Miranda’s every move, all his digging into her personal life brings him a little too close to the truth–and to her. Can the girl whose entire identity is wrapped up in her on-screen persona finally find the nerve to set the record straight? And if she does, will the life she’s built come crashing down just as she’s found a love to last?

Thoughts:

Made to Last is Melissa Tagg’s debut novel, which just released yesterday.  I enjoyed every minute of this delightful book!

Melissa Tagg has done a great job writing a wonderful cast of characters you feel like you have always known.  Her imagery is vivid and you feel yourself “watching” rather than reading Miranda Woodruff’s reality unfold. 

While this is a story of humor and romance, both real and contrived, it also addresses other meaningful issues.  Miranda, as well as the men in her life, struggle in their relationships with their families and with God.  The plot twists and turns as they question their faith and seek answers.   

Made to Last is an engaging story of finding faith and falling in love that will charm its way into your heart.  I look forward to reading more from Melissa Tagg! 

Biography:

Melissa Tagg is a former reporter turned author who loves all things funny and romancey. Her debut novel, a romantic comedy titled Made to Last, releases from Bethany House in September 2013, with a follow-up slated for summer 2014. In addition to her nonprofit day job, she is also the marketing/events coordinator for My Book Therapy, a craft and coaching community for writers founded by award-winning author Susan May Warren.

During her reporting days, Melissa interviewed presidential candidates and llama farmers, rode a hot air balloon and flew a plane, and once found herself face to face with a buffalo. But today she gets her kicks by letting her characters have their own fun. She’s passionate about humor, grace and happy endings.  

Visit Melissa’s fresh, new website at: www.MelissaTagg.com.  She currently has a giveaway going on that is open until tomorrow, September 17, at 5 pm, CST.  Hop on over and comment to win!

* I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers.  All thoughts expressed are my own. 

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Love in the Air Giveaway

13 Sep

Love in the Air

Love in the Air by Elizabeth Goddard

Review:

Nikki Alexander’s love of hot air balloons began in childhood.  Her father created a successful hot air balloon ride business before his death, a business Nikki is struggling to keep afloat.  Tragedy has left Nikki with overwhelming family responsibilities and important decisions to make.

Kyle Morgan left Albuquerque, New Mexico, three years ago believing he would never return.  However, guilt and unresolved feelings have brought him home asking for a second chance.   

As Nikki makes plans for her future, someone lurks in the shadows trying to sabotage her business.  Kyle works to regain Nikki’s trust while protecting her and her business.  As Nikki offers Kyle her forgiveness, she realizes that she has also given him her heart. 

LOVE IN THE AIR is a beautiful story of romance, peppered with suspense.  I enjoyed the relatable characters, who through faith, hope, and love, overcame the obstacles in their relationship.  Elizabeth Goddard does a wonderful job describing the sights and sounds from the basket of a hot air balloon.  I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful book and look forward to reading more from Elizabeth Goddard!

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review, which I have given. 

Biography:

Elizabeth Goddard is the Carol Award winning author of over a dozen romance novels.  Elizabeth is a member of ACFW, RWA and Faith Hope and Love, the inspirational chapter of RWA. She has served in various capacities for all three organizations, including as board member of her local RWA chapter. Elizabeth graduated with a B.S. degree in computer science and worked in high-level software sales for several years. You can visit her at www.ElizabethGoddard.com.

GIVEAWAY!

I am excited to be giving away one copy of LOVE IN THE AIR by Elizabeth Goddard.  The rules for this giveaway are as follows:

1) You must be a follower of this blog to win. 
2) You must leave a comment on this post.
3) You must live within the United States, for shipping purposes.

The contest will end Thursday, September 19 at midnight, Central Standard Time.  The winner will be announced next Friday, September 20.  Good luck!

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Stranded (Alaskan Courage Book #3)

6 Sep

StrandedSM

Stranded by Dani Pettrey

Stranded by Dani Pettrey released this week and it’s an adventure you don’t want to miss!  Read the exciting details below to find out how you can experience your own Alaskan adventure!

Synopsis:

Reporter Darcy St. James knows something is wrong when her friend vanishes from her job on a cruise ship. Everyone else believes Abby simply left of her own accord, but something isn’t lining up, and Darcy knows the only way to find the truth is to put herself in Abby’s position.

Gage McKenna has taken a summer-long stint leading adventure excursions for the passengers of various cruise lines that dock in Alaska for a few days of sightseeing. He’s surprised to find Darcy onboard one of the ships, working undercover as a reporter.

Something sinister is going on, and the deeper they dig, the more they realize they’ve only discovered the tip of the iceberg.

Thoughts:

Stranded is the third book in Dani Pettrey’s acclaimed Alaskan Courage series.   The McKennas are back and better than ever!

I love this family and their faith in God and in each other!  Gage and Darcy’s story has been begging to be told, and you certainly won’t be disappointed!  

Gage McKenna struggles with the heartache and loss he has experienced.  In letting go of his past, he is able to give himself to his future.  As a reporter, Darcy St. James won’t stop digging until the truth is revealed.  She and Gage work together to uncover something evil and sinister.  In doing so, they discover something beautiful!

Dani Pettrey and her Alaskan adventures keep getting better and better and Stranded is romantic suspense at its best! 

To celebrate the story, author Dani Pettrey and Bethany House Publishers are pleased to present the ALASKAN ADVENTURES Sweepstakes, and your chance to win one of three fabulous prizes connected with the story!

Topbanner

HOW TO ENTER:

Click the sweepstakes graphic above and complete the entry form or go to http://www.danipettrey.com/alaskan-adventures-sweepstakes/ and complete the entry box, anytime between September 2 and September 19.  This giveaway starts September 2, 2013 and ends September 19, 2013 @ 11:59 pm (PST).  Winners will be selected Friday, September 20, 2013, and announced at DaniPettrey.com.

GRAND PRIZE:

BUILD-YOUR-OWN-ADVENTURE PACKAGEgrandprize

In Stranded, Darcy, Gage, and the McKenna family launch into all kinds of adventures: from high-octane ocean kayaking, to rugged island camping beneath the vast Alaskan skies.

Our grand prize winner will have the chance to build their own adventure, with a $300 adventure gear gift card of their choice from either Eddie Bauer or L.L. Bean.

And what would our hero and heroine do if they won the prize? Gage use it towards one of L.L. Bean’s gorgeous ocean kayaks, while Darcy would go for “Glamping” gear:)

SECOND PRIZE:

CULINARY CONQUEROR PACKAGEsecondprize

Everyone knows Gage McKenna’s campfire cooking is second to none. But in Stranded, Darcy discovers that before Gage was a search and rescue hero, he secretly dreamed of attending culinary school.

Our second prize winner will have the chance to fulfill Gage’s dream with a $200 value, 1-year membership to Top Chef University.

Membership includes over 200 video lessons taught by Top Chef contestants, covering everything from soups to desserts.

THIRD PRIZE:

SHIMMER & SHINE PACKAGEthirdprize

Darcy once gave her missing friend, Abby, a beautiful shell necklace, engraved with a special message that made it one-of-a-kind.

Our third prize winner will receive their very own, one-of-a-kind “Earth & Sea” necklace valued at $100.

Handmade of New Zealand Paua shells, hammered copper, and Tahitian pearls, this necklace is the perfect complement for a soft sweater and jeans, or a unique finishing touch for a little black dress on a special date night.

Be sure and enter today for your chance to win!

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Shattered (Alaskan Courage Book #2)

4 Sep

Shattered

Shattered by Dani Pettrey

Synopsis:

When her prodigal brother Reef’s return to Yancey, Alaska, is shattered by his arrest for murder, Piper McKenna is determined to protect him.

Deputy Landon Grainger loves the McKennas like family, but he’s also sworn to find the truth. And he knows those closest to you have the power to deceive you the most.  With his sheriff pushing for a quick conviction, some unexpected leads complicate the investigation, and pursuing the truth puts Landon’s career in jeopardy.

When Piper launches her own investigation, Landon realizes he must protect her from herself–and whatever complications await as the two follow clues deep into Canada’s rugged backcountry. Not only does their long friendship seem to be turning into something more, but this dangerous case is becoming deadlier with each step.

Thoughts:

Shattered is the second book in Dani Pettrey’s Alaskan Courage series.  As much as I loved her first book, Submerged, I loved Shattered even more! 

One of my favorite things about a book series is the feeling of really knowing the characters and becoming invested in their stories.  I loved coming back to Yancey, Alaska, and catching up with Cole and Bailey and the rest of the McKenna family.

The relationship between Piper McKenna and Landon Grainger is one of friendship often fraught with conflict.  Though they continue to deny their feelings for each other, they soon realize that a deep friendship can lead to an even deeper love!

Shattered is a story of intrigue, romance, danger, and deadly consequences.  The well-written plot twists with every turn of the page!  Dani Pettrey does a wonderful job weaving spiritual elements into this story in a very real way! 

Don’t miss this Alaskan adventure!

Be sure to come back Friday for some exciting news concerning this series!

Alaskan Courage Series:

Book 1: Submerged

Book 2: Shattered

Book 3: Stranded…JUST RELEASED!!

Book 4: Silenced…Coming Summer 2014

Book 5: ….Coming Spring 2015


Biography:

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nail-biting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance.  She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two daughters.

Visit her website at: www.danipettrey.com

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Submerged (Alaskan Courage Book #1)

2 Sep

Submerged

Submerged by Dani Pettrey

Synopsis:

A sabotaged plane. Two dead deep-water divers.

One single clue.

Bailey Craig vowed never to set foot in Yancey, Alaska, again. She has a past, and a reputation–and Yancey’s a town that doesn’t forget. She’s returned only to bury a loved one killed in the plane crash, but then dark evidence emerges and Bailey’s own expertise becomes invaluable for the case.

Cole McKenna can face dangerous rescue dives. He can face the fear a murderer may be threatening his town. But facing the reality of Bailey’s reappearance is a tougher challenge. She broke his heart…but doesn’t seem to be the same girl who left Yancey ten years ago. And he’s not the same guy she left behind.

Racing against the clock and a rising body count, Bailey and Cole must move beyond the hurts of their pasts to work together until the truth of what is hidden in the depths finally surfaces.

Thoughts:

Submerged is the first book in Dani Pettrey’s Alaskan Courage series and a great beginning to a fantastic series!  The action begins on the very first page and continues throughout the book.  From murder and mystery to secrets and surprises, this book has it all!

In leaving Yancey, Alaska, ten years ago, Bailey Craig tried to move beyond the mistakes of her past.  However, they still linger in her mind and in the mind of others.  In searching for answers to mulitple murders and mysteries, Bailey finds the ultimate truth! 

Cole McKenna has remained in the small-town of Yancey and never forgotten Bailey Craig.  As they work together, feelings old and new begin to stir.  The endearing McKenna family quickly brings Bailey into their fold and she begins to realize the meaning of forgiveness.  Together, Bailey and Cole not only navigate the waters of Alaka, but also those of forgiveness, letting go, and beginning anew! 

While Submerged primarily focuses on the realationship between Bailey and Cole, its cast of characters is vast and rich.  Grab a copy of Submerged today and meet the wonderful people of Yancey, Alaska! 

Be sure to come back Friday for some exciting news concerning this series! 


Alaskan Courage Series:

Book 1: Submerged

Book 2: Shattered

Book 3: Stranded…JUST RELEASED!!

Book 4: Silenced…Coming Summer 2014

Book 5: ….Coming Spring 2015


Biography:

Dani Pettrey is a wife, homeschooling mom, and author. She feels blessed to write inspirational romantic suspense because it incorporates so many things she loves–the thrill of adventure, nailbiting suspense, the deepening of her characters’ faith, and plenty of romance. She and her husband reside in Maryland with their two daughters.

Visit her website at: www.danipettrey.com


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The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters

30 Aug

Whoopie Pie Sisters

The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters by Sarah Price and “Whoopie Pie” Pam Jarrell

Synopsis:

Follow the story of four Amish sisters who run Whoopie Pie Place, the best known bakery outside of Berlin, located in Holmes County, Ohio.  Each sister has a secret that influences their lives and, unknowingly, impacts each other.  Yet, little by little, the pressure of balancing their responsibilities of their daily lives with their individual secrets becomes harder to manage.  Leah, Susan, Lydia, and Sadie need to decide whether or not to confide in each other in order to gain the support of their family.

The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters is a different type of Amish Christian story. By blending the 25 years experience of living among the Amish from Sarah Price with Pamela Jarrell‘s extensive 15 years experience interacting and befriending the Amish in Berlin, Ohio, Price and Jarrell team up to give the readers a new type of story that focuses not so much on romance but on friendships and the reality of day-to-day life living among the Amish.

Thoughts:
 
The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters is eBook One of An Amish Christian trilogy.  With just over 100 pages, you will quickly consume this delicious treat!  Prior to this, I had not read Sarah Price or Pamela Jarrell.  I thought they did a wonderful job writing about the complexities of relationships within a family.  Siblings working together are sure to have their share of strife, and these four sisters are no exception!

In The Divine Secrets of the Whoopie Pie Sisters, you will come to know and care for each member of this close-knit family.  Even if you are not a fan of Amish fiction, I believe you will be able to relate to the struggles this family faces, whether it be business matters or matters of the heart!  Book One closes with such a cliffhanger, you will be anxious for the release of Book Two!  I can’t wait to read more!

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