Stealing The Preacher by Karen Witemeyer

Overview: A cowboy who wants to be a preacher. An outlaw's daughter who wants to change his mind.

On his way to interview for a position at a church in the Piney Woods of Texas, Crockett Archer can't believe it when he's forced off the train by an outlaw and presented to the man's daughter as the preacher she requested for her birthday. He's determined to escape—which would be much easier if he could stop thinking about Joanna Robbins and her unexpected request.

For months, Joanna had prayed for a minister. A man to breathe life back into the abandoned church at the heart of her community. A man to assist her in fulfilling a promise to her dying mother. But just when it seems her prayers have been answered, it turns out the parson is there against his will and has dreams of his own calling him elsewhere. Is there any way she can convince Crockett he ended up right where he was supposed to be?

With her signature blend of humor, history, and lively western romance, two-time RITA Award finalist and bestselling author Karen Witemeyer delivers a Texas love story sure to steal your heart.

ISBN-13: 9780764209666
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 6/1/2013
Pages: 352

Read the first chapter 

 Buy It: B&N | Amazon | CBD

My Review: As always, Karen Witemeyer delivers a fantastic story with witty dialogue, a fast-moving plot, and characters we can all relate to. The story line for Stealing The Preacher is a little different from her other stories; there is not a lot of action, but that I still enjoyed it immensely. The story was very well written and kept me interested, despite the lack of action. It allows the reader to focus more on the characters and their feelings and developement, than the story itself.

I loved the characters in this book. Crockett Archer is taking his first steps toward a new life outside of his ranch and immediate family. His character is written in a way that makes him strong and confident, yet vulnerable because he's branching out on his own for the first time in his life. I love that Karen didn't write him as a cocky, self-assured man, but gave him a real heart and compassion, as well as doubts. Joanna Robbins is a woman I would look up to in real life. She is confident, independent, and has a loving heart. Her faith is strong and she takes her calling seriously. She is the perfect match for the compassionate, kind-hearted preacher. Their romance was precious! I loved hearing about the other Archer brothers and the secondary characters (Jackson and Silas) made the story more enjoyable.

The message was deeply rooted in the story. Some might say it's "preachy," but I think it's written perfectly. Crockett is a preacher, after all. I would be concerned if there wasn't a lot of biblical truths written throughout the story! Trust and obedience are the main truths each character has to come to terms with. It is very well-written, and flows naturally throughout the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to find out Neill Archer's fate!

About the Author: Karen Witemeyer is a confirmed bookaholic who believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters. To that end, she combines her love of bygone eras with her passion for helping women mature in Christ to craft historical romance novels that lift the spirit and nurture the soul.

After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master's degrees in Psychology. It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid- to late1800s.

Karen is living her dream by writing Christian historical romance novels for Bethany House. Her books have consistently hit bestseller lists and have garnered awards such as the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the Christian Manifesto's Lime Award for Excellence in Fiction. In addition, she is a multiple RITA and National Reader's Choice finalist. Karen is also a sought-after speaker for national writing conferences and regional workshops.

Connect with Karen 

Water Your Faith Wednesday (July 30)

Hello everyone! Welcome to "Water Your Faith" Wednesday! How do you feel after spending your Sunday at church praising and worshiping our Lord? I know I feel great! I start my week fired up and ready to face what's in store. Oftentimes, however, by Wednesday, life begins to drag me down. My goal is provide a way to overcome the spiritual doldrums with encouraging words, scriptures, devotions, songs, etc. Let me know what you think!

 

This week, as I was riding in my car (I spend a LOT of time in my car, I have a long commute), the song All This Time by Britt Nicole came on. It is an amazing song. Have you ever heard it? It reminds me that God is walking with me, every day. He won't leave me. He won't forsake me. 

 

It brings to mind Joshua 1:9. God says, "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest." (KJV) and Deuteronomy 31:6, "Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he [it is] that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." (KJV) Isn't it comforting to know that the God who created the world is with you always? It is for me!

For more verses on the Lord's faithfulness to us, go here. (Note, these verses are all KJV version, but you can look them up in your own Bible or online at places like Biblehub.com or Biblegateway.com).

The lyrics and YouTube video for Britt Nicole's, All This Time, are below.

 

"All This Time"

I remember the moment, I remember the pain
I was only a girl, but I grew up that day
Tears were falling
I know You saw me

Hiding there in my bedroom, so alone
I was doing my best, trying to be strong
No one to turn to
That's when I met You

All this time, from the first tear cried
'Till today's sunrise
And every single moment between
You were there, You were always there
It was You and I
You've been walking with me all this time
Ooh, oh, oohh
Ooh, oh, oohh
You've been walking with me all this time

Ever since that day, it's been clear to me
That no matter what comes, You will never leave
I know You're for me
And You're restoring

Every heartache and failure, every broken dream
You're the God who sees, the God who rescued me
This is my story
This is my story

All this time, from the first tear cried
'Till today's sunrise
And every single moment between
You were there, You were always there
It was You and I
You've been walking with me all this time
Ooh, oh, oohh
Ooh, oh, oohh
You've been walking with me all this time

I hear these people asking me
How do I know what I believe
Well, I'm not the same me, and that's all the proof I need
I felt love, I felt Your grace
You stole my heart that day

(Ooh, oh, oohh)
Oh,woah
(Ooh, oh, oohh)
You've been walking with me all this time

All this time, from the first tear cried
'Till today's sunrise
And every single moment between
You were there, You were always there
It was You and I
You've been walking with me all this time

Ever since the first tear cried
It was You, You and I
You've been walking with me all this time

Ever since the first tear cried
It was You, You and I
You've been walking with me all this time

 (Lyrics from http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/brittnicole/allthistime.html)

I'd love to hear from you. What song have you heard recently that touched you?

Short-Straw Bride by Karen Witemeyer

Overview: Four brothers. Four straws. One bride.

No one steps on Archer land. Not if they value their life. But when Meredith Hayes overhears a plot to burn the Archer brothers off their ranch, a long-standing debt compels her to take the risk.

Years of constant vigilance hardens a man. Yet when Travis Archer comes across a female trespasser with the same vivid blue eyes as the courageous young girl he once aided, he can't bring himself to send her away. And when an act of sacrifice leaves her injured and her reputation in shreds, gratitude and guilt prompt him to attempt to rescue her once again.

Despite the fact that Travis is no longer the gallant youth Meredith once dreamed about, she vows to stand by his side. But will love ever be hers? Or will Travis always see her as merely a short-straw bride?

ISBN-13: 9780764209659
Publisher: Baker Publishing Group
Publication date: 6/1/2012
Pages: 368

Read Chapter One 

Buy It: B&N | Amazon | CBD

 
My Review: I have forgotten how enjoyable Karen Witemeyer's books can be! I've read several of her books (before I started my blog), so I had an idea of what to expect, but this was fantastic! The story was fast-paced and exciting. I had a hard time putting the book down.

Travis Archer and Meredith Hayes make a great hero/heroine pair. Both characters are well written and full of depth. Travis has been in charge of his three brothers for as long as he can remember. He is the take charge kind of guy that I can respect. His loyalty and love for his family runs deep. Meredith is sweet, caring, and gentle until you get her dander up. Then she's full of spirit and fire! Watching their romance grow in the midst of trouble was fun and sweet.

Karen Witemeyer artfully weaves in a deep truth throughout the story: trust. Both Meredith and Travis learn that putting your trust in God is the only way to really live a happy and content life. For Travis, that burden of protecting his family is not one he easily gets rid of. For Meredith, the patience that comes along with trusting the Lord knows what He's doing is harder than she thought. Both characters also have to learn that we, as Christians, are called to bear one another's burdens.

Overall, I highly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in the Archer Brothers series. After all, I have to know what happens to Crockett, Jim, and Neill!

About the Author: Karen Witemeyer is a confirmed bookaholic who believes the world needs more happily-ever-afters. To that end, she combines her love of bygone eras with her passion for helping women mature in Christ to craft historical romance novels that lift the spirit and nurture the soul.

After growing up in California, Karen moved to Texas to attend Abilene Christian University where she earned bachelor and master's degrees in Psychology. It was also there that she met and married her own Texas hero. He roped her in good, for she has lived in Texas ever since. In fact, she fell so in love with this rugged land of sweeping sunsets and enduring pioneer spirit, that she incorporates it into the pages of her novels, setting her stories in the small towns of a state that burgeoned into greatness in the mid- to late1800s.

Karen is living her dream by writing Christian historical romance novels for Bethany House. Her books have consistently hit bestseller lists and have garnered awards such as the ACFW Carol Award, the Holt Medallion, and the Christian Manifesto's Lime Award for Excellence in Fiction. In addition, she is a multiple RITA and National Reader's Choice finalist. Karen is also a sought-after speaker for national writing conferences and regional workshops.

Connect with Karen 

Birthday Bash - Winners!

First and foremost, I would like to thank all of the authors who participated in my Birthday Bash and made it successful. I appreciate each and every one of you!

Second, thank you to all my followers! You all made my birthday fantastic with your comments and support! I truly appreciate it!

So, without further ado- let's get to the winners!

The winners of The Sinner's Garden by Williams Sirls are....

AmyC**

Rita N.**

Jessica C.**

Elizabeth R.**

Laura C.*

The winner of A AMatch of Wits by Jen Turano is.....
Amy M.**

The winner of Mark of Distinction by Jessica Dotta is....
Jan H.**

The winners of Sushi for One? by Camy Tang are....
Zekkaina S.**
Linda R.**
Dana K.**
Robyn W.**
Ashley P.**
Jennifer T.**
James D.**
Laura P.**
Aizess*
Kai W.**

The winner of the $25 E-Book is....
Elizabeth N.**

The winner of A Broken Kind of Beautiful by Katie Ganshert is....
Rachael M.**

The winner of The Alaskan Courage Series by Dani Pettrey is....
Patty M.*

*winners have been notified. winners have one week from the date notified to claim their prize.*
**winners have claimed their prize**

 

The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejon by Lori Benton

Overview: Frontier dangers cannot hold a candle to the risks one woman takes by falling in love

In an act of brave defiance, Tamsen Littlejohn escapes the life her harsh stepfather has forced upon her. Forsaking security and an arranged marriage, she enlists frontiersman Jesse Bird to guide her to the Watauga settlement in western North Carolina. But shedding her old life doesn’t come without cost. As the two cross a vast mountain wilderness, Tamsen faces hardships that test the limits of her faith and endurance.

Convinced that Tamsen has been kidnapped, wealthy suitor Ambrose Kincaid follows after her, in company with her equally determined stepfather. With trouble in pursuit, Tamsen and Jesse find themselves thrust into the conflict of a divided community of Overmountain settlers. The State of Franklin has been declared, but many remain loyal to North Carolina. With one life left behind and chaos on the horizon, Tamsen struggles to adapt to a life for which she was never prepared. But could this challenging frontier life be what her soul has longed for, what God has been leading her toward? As pursuit draws ever nearer, will her faith see her through the greatest danger of all—loving a man who has risked everything for her?

ISBN-13: 9780307731494
Publisher: The Doubleday Religious Publishing Group
Publication date: 4/15/2014
Pages: 400

 Read Chapter One

The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn Extras 

 Buy It: B&N | Amazon | CBD 

My Review: From the first page of this book, I was captured by the story. Lori Benton is an amazing story-teller. Though there were parts in the middle that lagged a bit for me, I still enjoyed this book immensely. Tamsen's struggles and her pursuers, good and bad, made for an interesting plot line. As we move toward the end of the book, the story picks up with action, danger, and a love story that I found completely enjoyable.

Both Tamsen and Jesse face trials of their own, as well as trials together, which brought depth to each character. At the beginning of the story, we meet Tamsen, who is struggling to come to terms with who she is and what she's meant to become. Throughout the book, we see the choices she makes shaping the woman she will become. Jesse, whose story is unique, is an honorable man bent on protecting the woman he loved at first sight. Their romance was slow in coming, but sweet none the less.

There were many deep and exacting truths portrayed throughout the book. The main thought, in my opinion, is well summed up by this quote (don't worry, I took out the parts that give away the plot!): "But in time God will work even the worst things men do to us for our lasting good. Eternal good. Trust in the Almighty, in His love for you, and you'll have no need to dread anything He allows to befall you. For with a test, a trial, He gives an equal measure of grace to bear it  and the comfort of His fellowship as He strengthens us. He is acquainted with suffering."

Overall, I really enjoyed this fantastic story and I look forward to reading more by Lori Benton!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book through the Blogging for Books program in exchange for my honest review, which I have given.** 

Blogging for Books was kind enough to send me an e-book copy as well as a paperback copy of this book! I've decided to do an impromptu giveaway!  

If you'd like to win a copy of The Pursuit of Tamsen Littlejohn, simply comment below with your name and email address (in this format: email(at)email(dot)com). A winner will be chosen Monday, July 28!

About the Author: Lori Benton was raised east of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by early American and family history going back three hundred years. Her novels transport readers to the 18th century, where she brings to life the Colonial and early Federal periods of American history, creating a melting pot of characters drawn from both sides of a turbulent and shifting frontier, brought together in the bonds of God's transforming grace. When she isn’t writing, Lori enjoys exploring beautiful Oregon with her husband. 

Weekend Wrap Up (July 25)

 

This is the Weekend Wrap-Up, inspired by Melanie at Christian Bookshelf Review. This is where I will tell you what I've read in the past week, what I'm currently reading, and what I plan to read in the week ahead. I might also share some interesting events from the past week!

 

Current Giveaway: 

There's still time! Giveaway ends at Midnight! 

Enter to win The Alaskan Courage Series by Dani Pettrey - Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 7

What I've Read: 

 

Reviews Posted: 

:( Sadly, I didn't get any reviews posted...

What I'm Currently Reading: 

 

What I Hope to Read in July:

 

(I'll be lucky to finish the Karen Witemeyer books, I think! We shall see!!!)

Mad Libs with Books!

I'm in a little bit of a reading "funk," so when I came across this fun post on my blog roll this morning, I decided to join Amber at Seasons of Humility and Laura at Crafty Booksheeps in a Mad Libs game!

I only did books I read this year!Even though I've read 64 books this year, it was hard to find a fitting title for each. I managed to do it, and it was fun!

Let me know if you decide to participate! I would love to stop by and see your book choices! 

(My answers are based on titles alone and not the actual story! Also I attached my review to each title!)

In school I was: Whatever It Takes (I really didn't like school)

People might be surprised I'm: A Broken Kind of Beautiful (Read my "About Me" section)

I will never be: A Match of Wits

My fantasy job is: Cowgirl Trail

At the end of a long day: Love Redeemed

I hate it when: Forsaken Dreams

Wish I had: A Talent for Trouble

My family reunions are: Takedown Twenty

At a party you'd find me with : The Dancing Master

I've never been to: Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio

A happy day includes: A Most Peculiar Circumstance (I work on a phone desk, enough said!)

Motto I live by: Echoes of Mercy

On my bucket list: Tidewater Inn

In my next life, I want to be: Safe In His Arms (in Heaven with my Lord of course!)

Water Your Faith Wednesday (July 23)

Hello everyone! Welcome to "Water Your Faith" Wednesday! How do you feel after spending your Sunday at church praising and worshiping our Lord? I know I feel great! I start my week fired up and ready to face what's in store. Oftentimes, however, by Wednesday, life begins to drag me down. My goal is provide a way to overcome the spiritual doldrums with encouraging words, scriptures, devotions, songs, etc. Let me know what you think!

"When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom." (KJV)

"When pride comes, then comes shame: but with the humble is wisdom." (NKJV)

"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." (NIV)

Proverbs 11:2

I came across this verse yesterday in my Proverbs 31 daily devotion entitled The Moments We Don't Capture. Do you ever have those moments when you feel like the Lord just taps you on the shoulder and says "Pay attention to this, you need it!" Well, reading this devotion was one of those moments for me. 

Oftentimes in my life, when I've messed up, I don't really take the time to think or learn from my mistakes. I just apologize and move on. So, of course, I do it again and have to apologize all over again. After reading this devotion, I realize how foolish that is. How can I grow or change if I don't learn from my mistakes? The answer is simple: you can't.

As the devotion states, "Humility and humiliation, silver linings that can lead to wisdom even in the midst of the moments we don't capture in pictures." 

When was the last time you really took the time to look at your mistakes and learn from them? 

Birthday Bash! - Day 7 - Dani Pettrey Interview

Dani Pettrey is a wife, home-schooling mom, and the acclaimed author of the romantic suspense series Alaskan Courage, which includes her bestselling novels Submerged, Shattered, Stranded, and her latest release, Silenced. 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, where they enjoy time with their daughters, son-in-law, and super adorable grandson.

I love the McKenna family. I have enjoyed getting to know them and watch them grow. Which character do you relate to the most in the McKenna family?

Such a tough choice. I’d have to say of all the characters I’ve written I actually resonate the most with Bailey Craig from Submerged (she’s a McKenna now, so I think it counts :)). I really relate to her struggle in Submerged. Looking for wholeness outside of Christ is always going to let you down. Like Bailey, I too, found forgiveness of sins and became a new creation in Christ. His grace never ceases to amaze me.  

I’m so sad that we’re coming to the end of the McKenna family’s adventures. Are you working on anything now? If so, can you tell us about it?

I’m sad too. I’ve spent years with the McKennas so it is going to be hard not telling their stories. In my mind they’re still there, having adventures, I’m just not telling them…for now, at least. Never say never. I’m working on a new four book series next. I’m really excited about the stories and the characters, and particularly excited about the setting. The new series will take place along the Chesapeake Bay where I live. Can’t wait to share my neck of the woods with readers. 

Thanks for taking the time to answer those questions. Now, for a little bit of fun! 

If you could spend a week in any book, which would it be – one of yours or someone else’s?

I’m a huge Jane Austen fan so I’d pick one of her books. Pride and Prejudice is my favorite. How fun to get dressed up and attend balls. I’d love a dance with Mr. Darcy—if he found it amenable, of course :) 

 

What is a unique trait about yourself most people are not aware of?

Not sure it’s unique, but I’m very contemplative. I’m constantly thinking, imagining, daydreaming, pondering... I can’t just sit and watch a movie; I’m assessing the entire time. Usually have the ending figured out about five minutes in. Drives my poor hubby nuts. 

If you were making a movie out of one of your books, who would you cast as lead?

For Submerged Chris Hemsworth would play Cole McKenna and Katherine Heigl would play Bailey Craig. 

This or that?

Chocolate or vanilla?  

Definitely chocolate! The darker the better.

Coffee or tea?  

Definitely coffee. Even better if there’s chocolate mixed in.

Coke or Pepsi?  

Coke. 

Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. I really appreciate it!

Thanks so much for having me. Had a lot of fun with your questions.

Blessings,

Dani 

Dani has graciously provided one copy of Submerge, Shattered, Stranded, and Silenced in her "Alaskan Courage" series!

See my reviews of her books here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Weekend Wrap Up (July 18)

 

This is the Weekend Wrap-Up, inspired by Melanie at Christian Bookshelf Review. This is where I will tell you what I've read in the past week, what I'm currently reading, and what I plan to read in the week ahead. I might also share some interesting events from the past week!

 

Well, it has been an exciting week here at Book Reviews by Shannah! I've got a lot of great giveaway going on right now, so be sure to check them out!

Current Giveaways: 

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 1 - Enter to win William Sirls' The Sinner's Garden - Ends July 20

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 2 - Enter to win Jen Turano's A Match of Wits - Ends July 21

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 3 - Enter to win Jessica Dotta's Mark of Distinction - Ends July 22

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 4 - Enter to win Camy Tang's Sushi for One? - Ends July 23

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 5 - Enter to win a $25 E-book gift card - Ends July 24

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 6 - Enter to win Katie Ganshert's A Broken Kind of Beautiful - Ends July 25

Shannah's Birthday Bash - Day 7 - Look for the post TOMORROW!

What I've Read: 

Reviews Posted: 

A Match of Wits by Jen Turano

Courting Cate by Leslie Gould

Love Finds You in Sugarcreek, Ohio  by Serena Miller

What I'm Currently Reading: 

What I Hope to Read in July:

Birthday Bash! - Day 6 - Katie Ganshert Author Interview

Christy Award finalist and Carol Award winner, Katie Ganshert, graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison with a degree in education, and worked as a fifth grade teacher for several years before staying home to write full-time. She was born and raised in the Midwest, where she lives with her husband, their young son, and their goofy black lab, Bubba. When she’s not busy writing or playing or reading or snuggling, she is obsessing over the paperwork and the waiting that comes with adoption. You can learn more about Katie and her books by visiting her website or author Facebook page.

Welcome, Katie! I'm so glad you could join us.

Your book has a pretty strong theme/message about what is beautiful. How did you become involved with the subject or theme of your book?

I’ve done junior high ministry through my church for several years. I see what society is shoving into the faces of our young women regarding beauty and quite honestly, it breaks my heart. I wanted to tell a story that explored this theme, so A Broken Kind of Beautiful came about.  

As the story progresses, the reader can sense that you are trying to get a point across. What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?

I never go into a book with any specific agenda in mind, other than a prayer that the story would encourage people in their faith, draw hearts closer to God, and bring glory to His name. That’s my blanket prayer for all of the stories I write. For this one, I also prayed that Ivy’s story would minister to the broken—those women who felt unloved and beyond repair. God can take the most broken parts of ourselves and create something beautiful. He’s in the business of redemption. 

The theme of your book was very well developed. What are some of the references that you used while researching this book?

The theme verse of the novel comes from the second part of Isaiah 43:1, which is Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Even though God is talking to His people in the context of this verse, we know from the rest of the Bible that His nature is to redeem. He sent His son so that all of us could receive that same redemption. I think it’s such a beautiful picture, especially for a character as broken as Ivy. 

That is one of my favorite verses. It has meant so much to me in the past! Thank you for taking time to answer those questions. Now, for a little fun!

Do you have a favorite TV character? If so, who and why? 
You know, I don’t watch a lot of television. Usually I’m behind the game. I’ll watch a show on DVD or Netflix, after it’s been out for awhile. If I had to choose, I’d probably say Rick Castle and Kate Becket from the show Castle. I love their chemistry and the dialogue. It doesn’t hurt that Castle is a writer. 

What is the first book you felt like flinging across the room while reading and why?

Oh man! That’s a tough one. I’m sure there was one before this, but the one that jumps to mind is A Voice in the Wind by Francine Rivers. It’s the first book of her Mark of the Lion trilogy. They are my all-time favorite. So why did I feel like flinging it across the room, you might ask? Because the ending is a total cliff hanger of the panicked, distressed, no-this-can’t-be-happening variety. Thankfully, I was able to pick up the second book right away. 

How do you come up with the names for your characters?

If they don’t just come to me, I usually ask readers to vote on my author Facebook page! 

This or that?

Chocolate or vanilla?

Do some people really say vanilla!?! Chocolate, always.

Coffee or tea?

Coffee with cream, please.

Coke or Pepsi?

Diet Coke is my favorite!

Thanks again, Katie, for taking time out of your busy schedule to be here! I really appreciate it! 

Katie is graciously giving away a copy of A Broken Kind of Beautiful.

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