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Curses Dance with Bourbon : A Lost Souls Novel
There is a kind of friendship that is forged by nothing short of magic. But what happens when a friendship that beautiful breaks, a chasm created by distance and time?
Eloise Snowdrop Willow finds the life that she haphazardly built in humid Florida to not be what she hoped. But running away can do that. When the familiar scent of sea-salt vanilla catches her one hot morning, she knows it’s time for another change, but this one will require finding someone who once understood the language of her heart, and facing the grief she’d pushed aside for years.
Welcome back to Salem where at The Lost Souls House, peonies bloom unusually large, the perfect peach crisp can always be found in the kitchen, and the women who laugh and talk around the backyard firepit find healing.
Having left behind a successful coffee shop in a town hugging Orlando, Eloise is invited to help run The Black Cat Coffee where she finds a home with the townspeople, charming them with her skill of a carefully crafted mug of espresso and her easy camaraderie.
After an awkward meet-cute, Detective Taylor White, cursed to never fall in love, finds himself drawn to the newcomer as he tries to keep her at arms length. Which proves difficult as he is tasked to investigate odd hexes affecting people around town and drawing suspicion to her and The Lost Souls Coven.
But if they’re not the ones doing the hexing, then who is?
Curses Dance with Bourbon will take Eloise on a magical adventure of found family, facing loss, and the possibility of opening a wounded heart to someone who may not be able to love her back. Join The Lost Souls Coven for a magical season of blossoming flowers and friendships, new growth and healing, and unraveling the mystery of who is targeting the coven trying to run them out of town.
Eloise Snowdrop Willow finds the life that she haphazardly built in humid Florida to not be what she hoped. But running away can do that. When the familiar scent of sea-salt vanilla catches her one hot morning, she knows it’s time for another change, but this one will require finding someone who once understood the language of her heart, and facing the grief she’d pushed aside for years.
Welcome back to Salem where at The Lost Souls House, peonies bloom unusually large, the perfect peach crisp can always be found in the kitchen, and the women who laugh and talk around the backyard firepit find healing.
Having left behind a successful coffee shop in a town hugging Orlando, Eloise is invited to help run The Black Cat Coffee where she finds a home with the townspeople, charming them with her skill of a carefully crafted mug of espresso and her easy camaraderie.
After an awkward meet-cute, Detective Taylor White, cursed to never fall in love, finds himself drawn to the newcomer as he tries to keep her at arms length. Which proves difficult as he is tasked to investigate odd hexes affecting people around town and drawing suspicion to her and The Lost Souls Coven.
But if they’re not the ones doing the hexing, then who is?
Curses Dance with Bourbon will take Eloise on a magical adventure of found family, facing loss, and the possibility of opening a wounded heart to someone who may not be able to love her back. Join The Lost Souls Coven for a magical season of blossoming flowers and friendships, new growth and healing, and unraveling the mystery of who is targeting the coven trying to run them out of town.
- GenresMagical Realism
411 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2025
11 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
April 23, 2025
This book gives the feeling of being accepted, seen, known with all your faults and foibles and yet still loved. It is the well worn pair of jeans with the sweater that's endured and is still beautiful. The taste of your favorite tea with fresh honey. The power women have when they come together and support one another with unyielding strength, faith, and zeal.
The introduction of Eloise into the mix of our Lost Souls brings a new flavor and talent to the group. Eloise has hyperosmia or, for lack of a better term, is a scent hound (I, personally think the work scent hounds do in finding lost children and saving the day is amazing.). Her ability to discern scents on people and in the air enables her to "prescreen", if you will, a person just by their scent combination. Combine this with Ursula's horticultural aptitudes and you've got a supernatural sleuthing team.
We know from the first book Ursula and Eloise have issues to workout. Ursula, ever intuitive, let's her earthen hippie friend take it at her own pace including sleeping outdoors under a Peach or Willow Tree. But they find themselves at an impasse several times. The issue was one that is a big one. I hope you, reader, will hold your heart open with empathy.
Eloise has also captured the eye of another one of Salem's "Cursed Men". Oh these Salemite men.
The denoument of the book reveals so much (oh the twists!) and a surprise for the next book.
I must applaud the gentle way our author deals with mental health issues. She also takes on the issue of bullying in schools. We get lots of our favorite teen, Bess, plus a new girl who you’ll warm up to.
Curses Dance With Bourbon does not suffer sophomore syndrome. LeAnna Ehrsam's writing is even tighter and more prosiac in this book. And the food descriptions persist!
I received a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. No pie was promised.
The introduction of Eloise into the mix of our Lost Souls brings a new flavor and talent to the group. Eloise has hyperosmia or, for lack of a better term, is a scent hound (I, personally think the work scent hounds do in finding lost children and saving the day is amazing.). Her ability to discern scents on people and in the air enables her to "prescreen", if you will, a person just by their scent combination. Combine this with Ursula's horticultural aptitudes and you've got a supernatural sleuthing team.
We know from the first book Ursula and Eloise have issues to workout. Ursula, ever intuitive, let's her earthen hippie friend take it at her own pace including sleeping outdoors under a Peach or Willow Tree. But they find themselves at an impasse several times. The issue was one that is a big one. I hope you, reader, will hold your heart open with empathy.
Eloise has also captured the eye of another one of Salem's "Cursed Men". Oh these Salemite men.
The denoument of the book reveals so much (oh the twists!) and a surprise for the next book.
I must applaud the gentle way our author deals with mental health issues. She also takes on the issue of bullying in schools. We get lots of our favorite teen, Bess, plus a new girl who you’ll warm up to.
Curses Dance With Bourbon does not suffer sophomore syndrome. LeAnna Ehrsam's writing is even tighter and more prosiac in this book. And the food descriptions persist!
I received a gifted copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. No pie was promised.
April 5, 2025
This book was so much. It had all the things I knew I needed and some that I didn't. It was an absolute joy to read and I feel beyond privileged to have read it as an ARC! What an addition to the Lost Souls series.
This book is full of female friendship, self love, acceptance and more. It is an outpouring of what women deserve, written in the most loveliest of ways.
It's a story for overcoming darkness, holding strong, and trusting. Of support and comfort, and the space to feel, and be, vulnerable, and to find yourself.
This isn't a self help book, but as much as it was fun to read, there were definitely parts of it that I will hold close; to learn, and practice.
The characters are brilliant. I want to be part of the Lost Souls Coven, with their warm acceptance and wise ways. Each one of the characters has a part to play (and isn't that a lesson) and I really loved how their parts fit so well together.
I loved the new characters too, and I am holding out hope that the seed this author gave us at the very end of this book is one to be nurtured and cared for, so we can enjoy the fruits of it in books to come.
This book is full of female friendship, self love, acceptance and more. It is an outpouring of what women deserve, written in the most loveliest of ways.
It's a story for overcoming darkness, holding strong, and trusting. Of support and comfort, and the space to feel, and be, vulnerable, and to find yourself.
This isn't a self help book, but as much as it was fun to read, there were definitely parts of it that I will hold close; to learn, and practice.
The characters are brilliant. I want to be part of the Lost Souls Coven, with their warm acceptance and wise ways. Each one of the characters has a part to play (and isn't that a lesson) and I really loved how their parts fit so well together.
I loved the new characters too, and I am holding out hope that the seed this author gave us at the very end of this book is one to be nurtured and cared for, so we can enjoy the fruits of it in books to come.
April 8, 2025
**I received an ARC of Curses Dance with Bourbon from the author.**
I fell in love with this group in Hexes Go Well With Tequila, and this only made me double-down on the desire to become one of their coven members.
This book is a lesson on finding yourself, and fostering relationships that are important to you; not just romantic relationships, but those friends who are like soulmates. It's a reminder not to lose yourself in others who want you to make yourself small, who frown upon your taking up the space you deserve to be in. It's a lesson in boundaries, in knowing when to be flexible and when to hold steady.
The characters are still as delightful as ever, and our new addition in Eloise is refreshing. The descriptions of food is drool-worthy, and LeAnna has the most beautiful way of describing things...she is a master class in "show, don't tell." I giggled, I gasped, and I cried...(truthfully, there may have been lots of tears, but they were all good tears I assure you).
I fell in love with this group in Hexes Go Well With Tequila, and this only made me double-down on the desire to become one of their coven members.
This book is a lesson on finding yourself, and fostering relationships that are important to you; not just romantic relationships, but those friends who are like soulmates. It's a reminder not to lose yourself in others who want you to make yourself small, who frown upon your taking up the space you deserve to be in. It's a lesson in boundaries, in knowing when to be flexible and when to hold steady.
The characters are still as delightful as ever, and our new addition in Eloise is refreshing. The descriptions of food is drool-worthy, and LeAnna has the most beautiful way of describing things...she is a master class in "show, don't tell." I giggled, I gasped, and I cried...(truthfully, there may have been lots of tears, but they were all good tears I assure you).
June 20, 2025
It took me a few chapters for the book to grab me. But once it did it never let me go. I couldn’t put it down! I love Taylor. I related to Eloise having also lost my father (the center of my world) suddenly. I absolutely love the friendships and love this book portrays. That type of love and acceptance is so needed these days. I can’t wait for the next book.
May 1, 2025
I adored Hexes Go Well With Tequila and have been dreaming of this book since I finished that one. It dod not disappoint.
You've got strong females, a witchy house, female friendships being the center of the characters lives, witty banter, magic, and sexy men all rolled into a book. Said witchy house also produces the most adorable coffee mugs, including a mummy this time so am I Eloise? Maybe.
Eloise is my soul twin. When she has an adorable back and forth with a certain hunky detective, i felt it deep in my gut.
"I have a control problem."
"Which is?"
"I take over if I think something could be done better."
Same sis. Same.
And the trauma, the hex breaking, the romance, the counter top scene... the holding men AND women accountable for their actions and behavior... yum. Just yum.
And then there are lines like this that dig into you and rip out your heart.
A woman who lost out on that fatherly affection often had this uncertainty about them; questions left unanswered about themselves, and about the world.
Okay Leanna. I'll be taking that one to my therapist next month.
Read this book with your coven and soak in the love it brings you all.
You've got strong females, a witchy house, female friendships being the center of the characters lives, witty banter, magic, and sexy men all rolled into a book. Said witchy house also produces the most adorable coffee mugs, including a mummy this time so am I Eloise? Maybe.
Eloise is my soul twin. When she has an adorable back and forth with a certain hunky detective, i felt it deep in my gut.
"I have a control problem."
"Which is?"
"I take over if I think something could be done better."
Same sis. Same.
And the trauma, the hex breaking, the romance, the counter top scene... the holding men AND women accountable for their actions and behavior... yum. Just yum.
And then there are lines like this that dig into you and rip out your heart.
A woman who lost out on that fatherly affection often had this uncertainty about them; questions left unanswered about themselves, and about the world.
Okay Leanna. I'll be taking that one to my therapist next month.
Read this book with your coven and soak in the love it brings you all.
April 12, 2025
*I received this book as an ARC from the author*
Hexes Go Well With Tequila was one of my favorite books of 2024, so I was excited to get my hands on book 2 and I was not disappointed. These books feel like a love letter to women and friendship. The writing is poetic and beautiful. Such a breath of fresh air in the world we live in today. If you read one book this year, let it be this one.
Hexes Go Well With Tequila was one of my favorite books of 2024, so I was excited to get my hands on book 2 and I was not disappointed. These books feel like a love letter to women and friendship. The writing is poetic and beautiful. Such a breath of fresh air in the world we live in today. If you read one book this year, let it be this one.
April 30, 2025
Another cozy love letter to women by LeAnna. Lovely messages throughout this and her first book, and I can't wait to read #3!
April 29, 2025
I adore how LeAnna Ehrsam writes about friendship and highlights the absolute feelings of love and acceptance that comes with finding a group of women who embrace and support you. Returning to A Lost Souls series with Curses Dance with Bourbon felt like slipping into my favorite sweater.
Eloise Snowdrop Willow, the FMC, is an absolute gem and is the perfect addition to the Lost Souls dinner club/coven. She has this frankness about her that is refreshing and who doesn't love a women who understands the importance of a good cup of coffee. And she gets her own spirit animals, a coopers hawk and a very pregnant raccoon.
I loved how this book has multiple plot lines that intersect throughout the book. There is the possible romance between Eloise and Taylor, with the twist of Taylor's curse, the mystery of who is trying to frame the coven, and the suspense of if the dark figure from Eloise's past will come back to haunt her. Plus, I loved the elements of comedy that were woven throughout Eloise's plot line, from her awkward accidental date with Detective Taylor to her embarrassing heat flash public strip, it kept readers smiling.
This book was an absolute delight and I loved seeing the entire coven, Ursula, Tilly, Jen, Kelsea, and Crystal, along with Jessica, Bess, and Jenson, return. I cannot wait for book three.
Eloise Snowdrop Willow, the FMC, is an absolute gem and is the perfect addition to the Lost Souls dinner club/coven. She has this frankness about her that is refreshing and who doesn't love a women who understands the importance of a good cup of coffee. And she gets her own spirit animals, a coopers hawk and a very pregnant raccoon.
I loved how this book has multiple plot lines that intersect throughout the book. There is the possible romance between Eloise and Taylor, with the twist of Taylor's curse, the mystery of who is trying to frame the coven, and the suspense of if the dark figure from Eloise's past will come back to haunt her. Plus, I loved the elements of comedy that were woven throughout Eloise's plot line, from her awkward accidental date with Detective Taylor to her embarrassing heat flash public strip, it kept readers smiling.
This book was an absolute delight and I loved seeing the entire coven, Ursula, Tilly, Jen, Kelsea, and Crystal, along with Jessica, Bess, and Jenson, return. I cannot wait for book three.
October 12, 2025
Heavy on the self-acceptance/healing/ power of women and community.
A story about women in their menopausal years who can still redefine themselves, find love, and start fresh.
A story about women in their menopausal years who can still redefine themselves, find love, and start fresh.
April 28, 2025
I LOVED IT.
Taylor could get it but honestly so could Eloise. Their banter and chemistry were literally EVERYTHING.
This is the second book in the series and I'm honestly just so obsessed with it. My favorite thing about this book is that it's just so real and raw but it also helps set expectations for deep seeded friendships. For me personally, it helped me really appreciate my friendships a little more because I could recognize us in the characters.
The characters are also just so open about what women go through as we age and I think it's refreshing because it's very honest. There's this aspect of, "This is how this sucks but then you also have this to look forward to," and I just love that.
Reading this felt like talking to an old friend who just gets you. Would 💯 recommend.
P.s. I'm still waiting for that recipe book
Taylor could get it but honestly so could Eloise. Their banter and chemistry were literally EVERYTHING.
This is the second book in the series and I'm honestly just so obsessed with it. My favorite thing about this book is that it's just so real and raw but it also helps set expectations for deep seeded friendships. For me personally, it helped me really appreciate my friendships a little more because I could recognize us in the characters.
The characters are also just so open about what women go through as we age and I think it's refreshing because it's very honest. There's this aspect of, "This is how this sucks but then you also have this to look forward to," and I just love that.
Reading this felt like talking to an old friend who just gets you. Would 💯 recommend.
P.s. I'm still waiting for that recipe book
April 9, 2025
Put the blackberry in the bourbon and stir it right up!
LeAnna Ehrsam has done it again; from furry side kicks to hilarious curses, she just gets better. The relationship between Ursula and Eloise is the ultimate dream. The connections and missteps in dating are thoughtful and hilarious. It's just cozily perfect. Cannot wait for book three!
LeAnna Ehrsam has done it again; from furry side kicks to hilarious curses, she just gets better. The relationship between Ursula and Eloise is the ultimate dream. The connections and missteps in dating are thoughtful and hilarious. It's just cozily perfect. Cannot wait for book three!
April 11, 2025
I will come hack to say more soon, but first thoughts upon finishing …. this reads like a love letter to your best friend. I didn’t even know how much I needed that but here I am. I want all of my friends to read this book, but I think they should read Hexes go Well With Tequila first so they have a good understanding of the setting and characters. But ahhh! This book is SO good. Great even. Female friendships at their peak, with raw honesty and love.
April 26, 2025
5/5 ⭐️ 2/5 🌶️
Even though this book has a mystical house, a coven of witches, and a conundrum of curses, the most magical thing is how it manages to heal something inside you that you didn’t even know needed healing. It speaks to the immeasurable strength of female friendships, and finding your power when you are seen and supported. It isn’t just a book, it is a love letter to women. The poetic writing will leave you feeling so seen, accepted, and understood. A journey into the power and importance of finding, mending, and holding onto your female friendships.
I felt so immersed in the story that I was convinced some of the magical realism would permeate the page so I could reach it. The magic feels so natural, and is rooted in something that feels to tangible beyond the fictional web that LeAnna has woven.
We are back at the Lost Souls House in Salem for the second book of the series, where the coven welcomes Eloise into their fold. She is there to repair her relationship with Ursula, and needs space to heal, and face a threat that is following her from Florida. She fits right in and takes over the local coffee shop. When strange curses start to show up in town again, their coven is being blamed, her included now. And when she needs help, she leans on Taylor; local police officer and a man who has sworn off love. Can they put aside the obvious attraction to each other to just be friends when he insists nothing can happen between them? Will she be able to trust him and open up about what happened in Florida? While the romance in the book is seamlessly intertwined among the other themes in the book, it is a swoony love that I am obsessed with! Honestly, I still think about the after hours coffee shop scene more than I have any business to…
If you still aren’t hooked, may I also mention that this book will leave you salivating at all the delicious talk of food. It has a pregnant raccoon. AND AN ENDING THAT LEFT MY JAW ON THE FLOOR HINTING AT BOOK 3!!!!!!!! Seriously, I was simultaneously shocked because I didn’t see that twist coming, and super excited for what the next book will be about.
Even though this book has a mystical house, a coven of witches, and a conundrum of curses, the most magical thing is how it manages to heal something inside you that you didn’t even know needed healing. It speaks to the immeasurable strength of female friendships, and finding your power when you are seen and supported. It isn’t just a book, it is a love letter to women. The poetic writing will leave you feeling so seen, accepted, and understood. A journey into the power and importance of finding, mending, and holding onto your female friendships.
I felt so immersed in the story that I was convinced some of the magical realism would permeate the page so I could reach it. The magic feels so natural, and is rooted in something that feels to tangible beyond the fictional web that LeAnna has woven.
We are back at the Lost Souls House in Salem for the second book of the series, where the coven welcomes Eloise into their fold. She is there to repair her relationship with Ursula, and needs space to heal, and face a threat that is following her from Florida. She fits right in and takes over the local coffee shop. When strange curses start to show up in town again, their coven is being blamed, her included now. And when she needs help, she leans on Taylor; local police officer and a man who has sworn off love. Can they put aside the obvious attraction to each other to just be friends when he insists nothing can happen between them? Will she be able to trust him and open up about what happened in Florida? While the romance in the book is seamlessly intertwined among the other themes in the book, it is a swoony love that I am obsessed with! Honestly, I still think about the after hours coffee shop scene more than I have any business to…
If you still aren’t hooked, may I also mention that this book will leave you salivating at all the delicious talk of food. It has a pregnant raccoon. AND AN ENDING THAT LEFT MY JAW ON THE FLOOR HINTING AT BOOK 3!!!!!!!! Seriously, I was simultaneously shocked because I didn’t see that twist coming, and super excited for what the next book will be about.
April 26, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this much-anticipated follow-up to Hexes Go Well with Tequila : A Lost Souls Novel. I think it’s possible to read this one as a standalone, although you’d be missing some key background information about the house and side characters. If you like sisterhood and friendship stories with a romance subplot, strong female characters, animal sidekicks, sentient houses and subtle magic, tons of food p0rn, top-tier banter, and hot detectives, this novel is for you!
Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for honest feedback.
It’s official: no one does witchy cozy mysteries filled with intense female friendship quite like LeAnna Ehrsam! I really enjoyed the plot and storytelling, the characters and their development, as well as the plot twists. The descriptions were deliciously evocative and vivid, and the dialogues organic and well balanced. Once again, the banter was *chef’s kiss*, the male characters were swoon-worthy walking green flags, and the spice was short but sizzling hot. I’ll definitely read the rest of the Lost Souls series (while grieving the fact that I’ll never eat fresh peaches with a raccoon on my lap and my very own urban witch coven---sigh).
However, there were some irritants that made me zone out a few times. Although I enjoyed the food descriptions, I thought it was a bit too much at some point. And while I looooved the menopause rep (39yo here starting to have hot flashes!), I felt it was exaggerated in some instances (never heard of a woman stripping in public!). Also, Eloise’s talent with smells reminded be of Scarlett Dragna’s talent with colours: interesting, but overused throughout the novel. I think that most of these repetitions as well the couple of confusing run-on sentences could have been fixed with more thorough editing. (Note: I read an arc, so please note this might have been fixed in a subsequent version.)
Tropes to expect: chosen family, modern witch hunt, cursed to never love, falsely accused, platonic soul mates, the power of sisterhood, comfort food.
❤️ Top-tier banter
❤️ Witchy, cozy vibes
❤️ Atmospheric prose
❤️ Themes like mental health, forgiveness, and healing
❤️ Lady Macbeth
❤️ Swoonworthy, green-flag MMC
❌ Insufficient editing*
❌ Confusing run-on sentences*
❌ Some dragging and repetitions
❌ Exaggerated menopausal symptoms (never heard of a woman stripping in public!)
* I read an arc, so please note this might have been fixed in a subsequent version.
Trigger warnings: domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, strangling, stalking, murder and attempted murder, grief, mental illness, anxiety and panic attacks, sexism and misogyny, bullying, animal cruelty, etc.
Follow me on Instagram: @bibi.reads.writes
Note: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for honest feedback.
It’s official: no one does witchy cozy mysteries filled with intense female friendship quite like LeAnna Ehrsam! I really enjoyed the plot and storytelling, the characters and their development, as well as the plot twists. The descriptions were deliciously evocative and vivid, and the dialogues organic and well balanced. Once again, the banter was *chef’s kiss*, the male characters were swoon-worthy walking green flags, and the spice was short but sizzling hot. I’ll definitely read the rest of the Lost Souls series (while grieving the fact that I’ll never eat fresh peaches with a raccoon on my lap and my very own urban witch coven---sigh).
However, there were some irritants that made me zone out a few times. Although I enjoyed the food descriptions, I thought it was a bit too much at some point. And while I looooved the menopause rep (39yo here starting to have hot flashes!), I felt it was exaggerated in some instances (never heard of a woman stripping in public!). Also, Eloise’s talent with smells reminded be of Scarlett Dragna’s talent with colours: interesting, but overused throughout the novel. I think that most of these repetitions as well the couple of confusing run-on sentences could have been fixed with more thorough editing. (Note: I read an arc, so please note this might have been fixed in a subsequent version.)
Tropes to expect: chosen family, modern witch hunt, cursed to never love, falsely accused, platonic soul mates, the power of sisterhood, comfort food.
❤️ Top-tier banter
❤️ Witchy, cozy vibes
❤️ Atmospheric prose
❤️ Themes like mental health, forgiveness, and healing
❤️ Lady Macbeth
❤️ Swoonworthy, green-flag MMC
❌ Insufficient editing*
❌ Confusing run-on sentences*
❌ Some dragging and repetitions
❌ Exaggerated menopausal symptoms (never heard of a woman stripping in public!)
* I read an arc, so please note this might have been fixed in a subsequent version.
Trigger warnings: domestic violence, sexual assault, rape, strangling, stalking, murder and attempted murder, grief, mental illness, anxiety and panic attacks, sexism and misogyny, bullying, animal cruelty, etc.
Follow me on Instagram: @bibi.reads.writes
April 30, 2025
Happy release day !!!!
I was so excited and honored that LeAnna choose me for an ARC. (thanks for your trust with your new baby :) )
**I think this serie can be read as a standalone, but I also that doing so would be a detriment to understand important background details. **
First I have to say that I loooooved "Hexes Go Well with Tequila". It outed me from a reading slump. In part because I find a lit of myself in Ursula.
I was sooooo happy to return to this community that LeAnna created.
Warning : don't, I repeat, DON'T read this book on an empty stomach.
I would love that LeAnna had integrated recipes in the beginning of each (or some) chapter (like I saw in The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic) because well it promised deliciousness !
I love that the center of all is friendship, but I also appreciate romance, and slow burn with a banter is my favorite so thanks LeAnna for that because this one was also delicious .... The epilogue ? My heart was full ... yep T. is a keeper.
The writing is so descriptive and atmospheric, the ambiance is crisp. We love that !!
And LeAnna, we need to talk Chap 27 ?? My heart is 40, I cannot deal with this stress and this ending ... girl ! You cannot do that to me !
The Negative part (reminder it was an ARC)
there was so editing "problems" at the beginning.
The start was very slow. And if I am honest it felt like a bit repetitive on the "smells" department, even though I understand that this an essential part of the story.
So if you are into cozy books with mysterious vibes about woman around 40, strong sisterhood and a pinch of magic, I recommend this one. In bonus you will find that animals, ghosts and the house are side characters.
Thanks again LeAnna for this beautiful story, I can't wait for the next one (No pressure tho)
Quotes that I Love
"Anger is such an interesting emotion because rarely [...] he became complacent and passive and probably didn't understand the weight of what he was doing or more likely not doing. Most men don't.""
"even the strong ones need to fall to their knees sometimes."
"the most important thing is to leave people better than how you found them."
"Her kind of love is impactful. It leaves something behind."
"It is true, that you should be wise in choosing your battles, but if you never choose any, the price is never finding the peace waiting on the other side of the ones worth fighting."
I was so excited and honored that LeAnna choose me for an ARC. (thanks for your trust with your new baby :) )
**I think this serie can be read as a standalone, but I also that doing so would be a detriment to understand important background details. **
First I have to say that I loooooved "Hexes Go Well with Tequila". It outed me from a reading slump. In part because I find a lit of myself in Ursula.
I was sooooo happy to return to this community that LeAnna created.
Warning : don't, I repeat, DON'T read this book on an empty stomach.
I would love that LeAnna had integrated recipes in the beginning of each (or some) chapter (like I saw in The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic) because well it promised deliciousness !
I love that the center of all is friendship, but I also appreciate romance, and slow burn with a banter is my favorite so thanks LeAnna for that because this one was also delicious .... The epilogue ? My heart was full ... yep T. is a keeper.
The writing is so descriptive and atmospheric, the ambiance is crisp. We love that !!
And LeAnna, we need to talk Chap 27 ?? My heart is 40, I cannot deal with this stress and this ending ... girl ! You cannot do that to me !
The Negative part (reminder it was an ARC)
there was so editing "problems" at the beginning.
The start was very slow. And if I am honest it felt like a bit repetitive on the "smells" department, even though I understand that this an essential part of the story.
So if you are into cozy books with mysterious vibes about woman around 40, strong sisterhood and a pinch of magic, I recommend this one. In bonus you will find that animals, ghosts and the house are side characters.
Thanks again LeAnna for this beautiful story, I can't wait for the next one (No pressure tho)
Quotes that I Love
"Anger is such an interesting emotion because rarely [...] he became complacent and passive and probably didn't understand the weight of what he was doing or more likely not doing. Most men don't.""
"even the strong ones need to fall to their knees sometimes."
"the most important thing is to leave people better than how you found them."
"Her kind of love is impactful. It leaves something behind."
"It is true, that you should be wise in choosing your battles, but if you never choose any, the price is never finding the peace waiting on the other side of the ones worth fighting."
April 7, 2025
*I received an eARC copy of Curses directly from the author*
I absolutely adored Curses just as much as I fell in love with Hexes.
Leanna’s writing of female friendships is my favorite and I love how her writing emerges me into the relationships and the town itself. I normally binge my reading fairly quickly, however with her books I force myself to binge chapters at a time before walking away in order to live in the world just a little longer.
The story is solid, with fluid narrative. She has a way of world building that touches all of your senses without feeling like it is building at all. There is nothing confusing or disjointed. It’s playful, cozy, magical, and love all between the covers.
I also have a thing for all of the food and drink she sprinkles through the journey (I’ve wanted a Lost Souls Cookbook since Hexes, y’all!) as well as the way she describes the scent of things we normally do not associate with smell (emotions for example).
I picture the day I can create my own real life version of Lost Souls Coven and the Lost Souls House, filling it with the smells of freshly baked desserts and warm coffee/tea.
I loved how we got more of Ursula and Eloise relationship more as a major plot point than a subplot. I feel like the male relationships with the ladies is the subplot and the relationship between the women as well as that with themselves is the main plot.
And that ending? Hello!!! Do I smell the idea of book 3 ? I really hope that I am right about that!
I absolutely adored Curses just as much as I fell in love with Hexes.
Leanna’s writing of female friendships is my favorite and I love how her writing emerges me into the relationships and the town itself. I normally binge my reading fairly quickly, however with her books I force myself to binge chapters at a time before walking away in order to live in the world just a little longer.
The story is solid, with fluid narrative. She has a way of world building that touches all of your senses without feeling like it is building at all. There is nothing confusing or disjointed. It’s playful, cozy, magical, and love all between the covers.
I also have a thing for all of the food and drink she sprinkles through the journey (I’ve wanted a Lost Souls Cookbook since Hexes, y’all!) as well as the way she describes the scent of things we normally do not associate with smell (emotions for example).
I picture the day I can create my own real life version of Lost Souls Coven and the Lost Souls House, filling it with the smells of freshly baked desserts and warm coffee/tea.
I loved how we got more of Ursula and Eloise relationship more as a major plot point than a subplot. I feel like the male relationships with the ladies is the subplot and the relationship between the women as well as that with themselves is the main plot.
And that ending? Hello!!! Do I smell the idea of book 3 ? I really hope that I am right about that!
April 28, 2025
4.5/ 1/ Curses Dance with Bourbon by LeAnna Ehrsam is book two in the Lost Souls series. A series of standalone that interconnect and I do recommend reading them in order for full feels!
Blurb:
There is a kind of friendship that is forged by nothing short of magic. Welcome back to Salem where at the Lost Souls House, peonies blood unusually large, the perfect peach crisp can always be found in the kitchen, and the women who laugh and talk around the backyard firepit find healing.
This story focuses on our FMC Eloise who after some time apart from her best friend found her way back to find some healing space. Getting back into this world again was such a delight and I cannot express enough how comforting it is to read about these strong women. Not to mention the partners that slowly come into these women’s lives showing them how much they deserve to be adored.
What I love about these books so far is you have great storylines that are equally cozy and yet tackle deep topics. You have a mystery element woven into the tale as well and a sentient house with a lot of personality. The magical realism element is also well done and I have always been a sucker for magical realism. Imagine if you could read the adult version of the sisterhood of the traveling pants meets practical magic? I am sure you are thinking that would be amazing, and you would not be wrong.
There is a romantic storyline as well in the story and a little bit of delicious spice. Along with the swoon worthy romance, I love that LeAnna also gives us fantastic platonic soul mate friendships. It made me think of that quote from Sex and The City, “Maybe we could be each other’s soulmates. And then we could let men be just these great, nice guys to have fun with.”
If you are looking for a cozy mystery mystical realism book to sink you teeth into you, The Lost Souls is for you! Book one is Hexes go Well With Tequila and this current release will be available April 29th. Happy reading!
Blurb:
There is a kind of friendship that is forged by nothing short of magic. Welcome back to Salem where at the Lost Souls House, peonies blood unusually large, the perfect peach crisp can always be found in the kitchen, and the women who laugh and talk around the backyard firepit find healing.
This story focuses on our FMC Eloise who after some time apart from her best friend found her way back to find some healing space. Getting back into this world again was such a delight and I cannot express enough how comforting it is to read about these strong women. Not to mention the partners that slowly come into these women’s lives showing them how much they deserve to be adored.
What I love about these books so far is you have great storylines that are equally cozy and yet tackle deep topics. You have a mystery element woven into the tale as well and a sentient house with a lot of personality. The magical realism element is also well done and I have always been a sucker for magical realism. Imagine if you could read the adult version of the sisterhood of the traveling pants meets practical magic? I am sure you are thinking that would be amazing, and you would not be wrong.
There is a romantic storyline as well in the story and a little bit of delicious spice. Along with the swoon worthy romance, I love that LeAnna also gives us fantastic platonic soul mate friendships. It made me think of that quote from Sex and The City, “Maybe we could be each other’s soulmates. And then we could let men be just these great, nice guys to have fun with.”
If you are looking for a cozy mystery mystical realism book to sink you teeth into you, The Lost Souls is for you! Book one is Hexes go Well With Tequila and this current release will be available April 29th. Happy reading!
April 20, 2025
Where do I start?
With incredibly atmospheric prose, this cozy, magical realism is filled with mouth-watering food (I vote for a Lost Souls cookbook!), and the most phenomenal group of eccentric women.
After Hexes Go Well With Tequila, I adored these women. After Curses Dance With Bourbon, I want to meet, be part of, and become these women!
Do they have it all together? Hell no.
What they do have is a love and appreciation for each other and for living each day exquisitely. They are a group of (mostly) over 30 women who have learned the hard lessons life teaches you and walked out wiser and with grace. They put effort and love into the relationships the value and cherish. One of those being their relationships with themselves.
We meet Eloise, Ursula's long lost platonic soulmate. The depth of their bond and love for one another sang throughout these pages. She added an additional level of emotional depth, a clear understanding of boundaries, and a wonderful reminder to leave others better that you found them. She was the epitome of grace when thrust in uncomfortable situations - something we could all learn from a little.
This book is a lesson in loving oneself, in rediscovering the joy behind a slice of cake with a group of women, and in being the very best version of ourselves.
Brilliant 🌟
With incredibly atmospheric prose, this cozy, magical realism is filled with mouth-watering food (I vote for a Lost Souls cookbook!), and the most phenomenal group of eccentric women.
After Hexes Go Well With Tequila, I adored these women. After Curses Dance With Bourbon, I want to meet, be part of, and become these women!
Do they have it all together? Hell no.
What they do have is a love and appreciation for each other and for living each day exquisitely. They are a group of (mostly) over 30 women who have learned the hard lessons life teaches you and walked out wiser and with grace. They put effort and love into the relationships the value and cherish. One of those being their relationships with themselves.
We meet Eloise, Ursula's long lost platonic soulmate. The depth of their bond and love for one another sang throughout these pages. She added an additional level of emotional depth, a clear understanding of boundaries, and a wonderful reminder to leave others better that you found them. She was the epitome of grace when thrust in uncomfortable situations - something we could all learn from a little.
This book is a lesson in loving oneself, in rediscovering the joy behind a slice of cake with a group of women, and in being the very best version of ourselves.
Brilliant 🌟
April 22, 2025
I had the pleasure of reading this book after receiving an advanced reader copy from the author. While it was noted that this second installment in the series could be read as a standalone, I found there were moments—especially during a pivotal twist—where I felt like I was missing some crucial background that might have been covered in the first book. Nonetheless, when taken on its own, this story still held its own charm.
The author truly excels in creating vivid, enchanting settings. The descriptions of the gardens, the house, and the town painted a picture of a magical, idyllic place—a setting so compelling it feels like the dream home where every woman would want to live with her closest friends. This whimsical backdrop beautifully complemented the story’s central theme: the profound and often overlooked love that can exist in friendships between women.
While the friendship element took center stage, the inclusion of a romance added an extra layer of warmth, with slightly more detail than I anticipated but pleasantly so! Overall, this was a lovely tale of self-discovery and the bonds that shape us, whether they're platonic or romantic.
This book has left me curious about the first installment, and I plan to revisit it to fully immerse myself in this world. If it’s anything like this volume, I’m sure it will be a delightful read as well!
The author truly excels in creating vivid, enchanting settings. The descriptions of the gardens, the house, and the town painted a picture of a magical, idyllic place—a setting so compelling it feels like the dream home where every woman would want to live with her closest friends. This whimsical backdrop beautifully complemented the story’s central theme: the profound and often overlooked love that can exist in friendships between women.
While the friendship element took center stage, the inclusion of a romance added an extra layer of warmth, with slightly more detail than I anticipated but pleasantly so! Overall, this was a lovely tale of self-discovery and the bonds that shape us, whether they're platonic or romantic.
This book has left me curious about the first installment, and I plan to revisit it to fully immerse myself in this world. If it’s anything like this volume, I’m sure it will be a delightful read as well!
April 10, 2025
*I received an ARC copy of this book* I loved this. And the first book in the series, Hexes Go Well With Tequila. There were a couple things in this book that totally took me out of the moment (vintage jazz birthday party for a 16 year old burning sage-it’s a closed practice and burning sage is not ok if you’re not Native American) and I still wanted to give it 5 stars. The DEEEEEP friendship between women warmed my heart. The community of women who truly care about each other is something I’m trying to foster in my own life. Add sexy men, teenage angst, amazing coffee, delicious sounding desserts (I need there to be an accompanying cookbook), and some cocktails…this is the life I want for myself and the women around me. Well, minus the few shitty people around them.
Good triumphs over evil, everyone gets a happily ever after, the town is in glorious springtime bloom, and we even get a bit of a cliffhanger. This woman knows how to write a series!
Good triumphs over evil, everyone gets a happily ever after, the town is in glorious springtime bloom, and we even get a bit of a cliffhanger. This woman knows how to write a series!
April 17, 2025
An incredible testimony of the soul bond between female best friends. This book made me laugh A LOT, made me cry a little, and made me really freaking hungry!! I absolutely adored Eloise and Ursula’s friendship. So beautiful and loyal to the core. The witty banter and hilarious mishaps had me CACKLING. I also love that LeAnna doesn’t make romance the sole focus of the story but gives you enough to scratch that romance itch. A wonderful slow burn, deep yearning, and one spicy scene that was tastefully done and oh so sexy! Overall this is a relaxing read that I looked forward to every night, but also felt a little bit like therapy with all the reflection and feels it stirred up.
Reading Curses Dance with Bourbon feels like laying on a blanket in a grassy field next to your best friend surrounded by wildflowers with the sun warming your skin and a cool breeze catching your hair while you eat the most decadent slice of warm pie a la mode.
Reading Curses Dance with Bourbon feels like laying on a blanket in a grassy field next to your best friend surrounded by wildflowers with the sun warming your skin and a cool breeze catching your hair while you eat the most decadent slice of warm pie a la mode.
May 12, 2025
✨I received this book as an ARC for free in exchange for an honest review✨
🖤 Witchy Vibes
🖤 Female Friendships
🖤 Found Family
🖤 FMC Late 30’s
I absolutely adore LeAnna. In my eyes she can do nothing wrong even when she rips open my heart, looks into my soul and writes a book about female friendships and how they can also be your soulmates.
I loved Hexes Go Well With Tequila. I related to Ursula on so many levels. Feeling lost and finding friends later in life spoke well into my soul. Now seeing the love between these two friends, sisters and soulmates is poetic.
This story is not only about Eloise dealing with her past and grief of losing her father, losing a part of who she used to be but it is a story about finding hope, fostering relationships and finding herself again. The story is about female friendships, self love, acceptance, and standing up for each other. A true love story of female friendships.
🖤 Witchy Vibes
🖤 Female Friendships
🖤 Found Family
🖤 FMC Late 30’s
I absolutely adore LeAnna. In my eyes she can do nothing wrong even when she rips open my heart, looks into my soul and writes a book about female friendships and how they can also be your soulmates.
I loved Hexes Go Well With Tequila. I related to Ursula on so many levels. Feeling lost and finding friends later in life spoke well into my soul. Now seeing the love between these two friends, sisters and soulmates is poetic.
This story is not only about Eloise dealing with her past and grief of losing her father, losing a part of who she used to be but it is a story about finding hope, fostering relationships and finding herself again. The story is about female friendships, self love, acceptance, and standing up for each other. A true love story of female friendships.
April 16, 2025
Curses Dance with Bourbon
By Leanna Ehrsam
The friendships in Curses Dance with Bourbon are the kind that so many women dream of having! Nothing feels like having someone you can count on for absolutely anything. This book shows you exactly what it looks like for women to help raise up other women and I am so here for it. And the romance is so swoony too. I loved Eloise and Taylor as much as I loved Ursula and Jenson. 🥰
My only con is that this book gives me unrealistic expectations on the kinds of stray animals I can bring home. I don’t think my husband would be too thrilled if I found my own Lady Macbeth but boy I would love to.
This story is wonderfully written and was a joy to read. I really loved everything about it.
Special thank you to the author for allowing to read this as an arc. I can’t wait for the next one.
By Leanna Ehrsam
The friendships in Curses Dance with Bourbon are the kind that so many women dream of having! Nothing feels like having someone you can count on for absolutely anything. This book shows you exactly what it looks like for women to help raise up other women and I am so here for it. And the romance is so swoony too. I loved Eloise and Taylor as much as I loved Ursula and Jenson. 🥰
My only con is that this book gives me unrealistic expectations on the kinds of stray animals I can bring home. I don’t think my husband would be too thrilled if I found my own Lady Macbeth but boy I would love to.
This story is wonderfully written and was a joy to read. I really loved everything about it.
Special thank you to the author for allowing to read this as an arc. I can’t wait for the next one.
April 20, 2025
Lovely book full of beautiful pros that sets the scene in the northeast town of Salem. If you’re a fan of the movie Practical Magic, then this is for you. The solid and positive friendship bonds these women have for each other is refreshing. All the food and coffee and cocktails makes me want to join this coven. I do think it would have been super cool to have one recipe per chapter.
The book isn’t super spicy, subjective I know, but it’s a good introduction into an open door scene for those curious.
With all that said, sometimes the book became super wordy and repetitive. As an example, I knew what Taylor smelled like the first few times and felt it was unnecessary to keep repeating. Towards the end I was ready for the book to be over due to the long- worded sentences that I initially enjoyed.
Overall I enjoyed this book and the happiness it gave me. Like a warm hug. Makes me want to move there. Thank you for this ARC!
The book isn’t super spicy, subjective I know, but it’s a good introduction into an open door scene for those curious.
With all that said, sometimes the book became super wordy and repetitive. As an example, I knew what Taylor smelled like the first few times and felt it was unnecessary to keep repeating. Towards the end I was ready for the book to be over due to the long- worded sentences that I initially enjoyed.
Overall I enjoyed this book and the happiness it gave me. Like a warm hug. Makes me want to move there. Thank you for this ARC!
April 27, 2025
Short Synopsis:
Eloise moves to Salem after her former best friend moves into The Lost Souls House - magical house. There she meets Taylor - a cursed detective who can’t seem to stay away from Eloise.
My Thoughts:
What a fun cozy witchy read. I read HEXES GO WELL WITH TEQUILA last year and enjoyed the older FMC, found family and magical nods. And CURSES DANCE WITH BOURBON continues all the things I loved about Hexes. The friendship (aka coven) in this one is just so fun. The women were there to support and lift each other up.
The romance was a beautiful slow burn. A jealous Taylor was fun to see.
If you’re a fan of magical realism, cozy fantasy or witchy reads, this one is for you!
What You’ll Find:
Found family (aka coven)
Women going through perimenopause
A pet raccoon
Banter
Women supporting women
Eloise moves to Salem after her former best friend moves into The Lost Souls House - magical house. There she meets Taylor - a cursed detective who can’t seem to stay away from Eloise.
My Thoughts:
What a fun cozy witchy read. I read HEXES GO WELL WITH TEQUILA last year and enjoyed the older FMC, found family and magical nods. And CURSES DANCE WITH BOURBON continues all the things I loved about Hexes. The friendship (aka coven) in this one is just so fun. The women were there to support and lift each other up.
The romance was a beautiful slow burn. A jealous Taylor was fun to see.
If you’re a fan of magical realism, cozy fantasy or witchy reads, this one is for you!
What You’ll Find:
Found family (aka coven)
Women going through perimenopause
A pet raccoon
Banter
Women supporting women
May 3, 2025
*I received an ARC of this book. But shortly after I started reading it, I pre-ordered the e-book because it’s that good.* I absolutely adored the first book, Hexes Go Well With Tequila. I adored it so much that I worried that this second book couldn’t possibly live up to that one. Well, I needn’t have worried. This book was just as sweet and energizing and liberating as the first one. The story is compelling, the setting is magical, and the characters are so vivid and three-dimensional that you feel you could look up and they’d be there in the room with you. This series is so empowering and uplifting and so well-written, I recommend it to everyone. If you’re looking for a book about strong female friendships, kind, compassionate people dealing with the difficulties of life with grace, and the kind of cozy, delicious magic you want to sink into, then this is the book for you.
April 7, 2025
Thank you for the ARC!
I didn't realize how badly I'd been waiting to dive back into this world until I started Curses Dance with Bourbon. I missed Ursula and the Lost Souls Coven, the cozy meals and the slow, delightful lifestyle. Eloise (Ursula's estranged best friend) meets Detective Taylor White, poor detective cursed never to love, and they gain the best friendship.
The meat of the story is that people in Salem start showing up cursed and the people of the town blame the Lost Souls Coven (so sad). Eloise jumps in to help at The Black Cat Cafe and her and Ursula reconnect while trying to figure out who is cursing everyone.
The food sounds delicious (and I want a cookbook), the company is something to aspire for, and I would move to Salem and the Lost Souls house at first invitation. I can't wait for the third installation.
I didn't realize how badly I'd been waiting to dive back into this world until I started Curses Dance with Bourbon. I missed Ursula and the Lost Souls Coven, the cozy meals and the slow, delightful lifestyle. Eloise (Ursula's estranged best friend) meets Detective Taylor White, poor detective cursed never to love, and they gain the best friendship.
The meat of the story is that people in Salem start showing up cursed and the people of the town blame the Lost Souls Coven (so sad). Eloise jumps in to help at The Black Cat Cafe and her and Ursula reconnect while trying to figure out who is cursing everyone.
The food sounds delicious (and I want a cookbook), the company is something to aspire for, and I would move to Salem and the Lost Souls house at first invitation. I can't wait for the third installation.
April 22, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Curses Dance with Bourbon by LeAnna Ehrsam and was lucky enough to receive an ARC to sink into.
The story is centered on main character Eloise and her bestie Ursula along with their crew (coven) and an adventure involving a cast of lovable characters, a charming, bewitched house and a nefarious villain bent on revenge. I love the lyrical way this story comes together and was inspired by the friendships portrayed. May we all be surrounded by strong, loyal, and no BS friends, with the ability to find it in us to forgive and aim to be better. This book was like a warm hug and hot cup of tea during a thunderstorm. I can't wait to read about other Lost Souls.
BRB I need to go order Hexes Go Well with Tequila ASAP.
The story is centered on main character Eloise and her bestie Ursula along with their crew (coven) and an adventure involving a cast of lovable characters, a charming, bewitched house and a nefarious villain bent on revenge. I love the lyrical way this story comes together and was inspired by the friendships portrayed. May we all be surrounded by strong, loyal, and no BS friends, with the ability to find it in us to forgive and aim to be better. This book was like a warm hug and hot cup of tea during a thunderstorm. I can't wait to read about other Lost Souls.
BRB I need to go order Hexes Go Well with Tequila ASAP.
April 25, 2025
I definitely love these books so much. The friendship’s, the magic, the relatability of age and the writing is all so wonderful. I wish I could dive into these books and live hear and be friends with these amazing women. LeaAnna you had me almost in tears with Lady McBeth and the wall, I fell in love with that little trash panda. I also love that these friendship show that they are very close but also can have disagreements, but also how they can come together and work through things. This book and Hexes Go Well with Tequila are just such comfort reads for me and definitely give me practical magic vibes. Now that I finish this book, I’m gonna go make a drink with the bourbon. 🥃 Solid 4.5⭐️ for me.
April 28, 2025
"Let's do some witchy shit." Words spoken when friends are hurting and it's time to take action. Curses Dance with Bourbon is a love story, but more about the love between friends than what you expect from a romance novel. Although there's a lil 🌶🌶 in there if you want it. 👀
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What I love most is no matter how crazy the drama, or how hurt the women become, it's not about being catty or manipulative towards one another; it's about being decent human beings who lift each other up, and are willing to accept those who even I might not be big enough to keep out of my freezer (sorry Carol, IYKYK).
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Also, there's coffee, a raccoon, witchy shit, more coffee, our returning apathetic m*rder puffs, and did I mention the raccoon is satisfyingly chonky? Just read the book please. 🖤🔮🦝🐈⬛
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What I love most is no matter how crazy the drama, or how hurt the women become, it's not about being catty or manipulative towards one another; it's about being decent human beings who lift each other up, and are willing to accept those who even I might not be big enough to keep out of my freezer (sorry Carol, IYKYK).
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Also, there's coffee, a raccoon, witchy shit, more coffee, our returning apathetic m*rder puffs, and did I mention the raccoon is satisfyingly chonky? Just read the book please. 🖤🔮🦝🐈⬛
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