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Lake Haven #2
Suddenly Dating
If only Lola Dunne had the time―and the courage―she’d write her novel, and maybe even start dating again. When her friend offers the use of her summer home overlooking Lake Haven, Lola sees the chance to focus on herself for a change, and she eagerly accepts. Engineer Harry Westbrook is waiting for his ship to come in. But it’s not happening soon enough for his girlfriend, who’s left him for good…again. To nurse Harry’s heartache, his pal extends an invite to his lake house in East Beach. When it turns out that Harry’s and Lola’s friends are a divorcing, not-on-speaking-terms couple sparring over the same house, the strangers find themselves accidental (and reluctant) roommates for the summer. They agree to make the best of it, even posing as a couple to mingle among East Beach’s well-heeled crowd. But the ruse is starting to feel real―and romantic. Are they brave enough to reveal their feelings before the summer nights turn cold?
320 pages, Paperback
First published November 8, 2016
508 people are currently reading
838 people want to read
About the author
Julia London
190 books3,137 followersJulia London is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than two dozen romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular historical romance series, the Cabot Sisters, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several contemporary romances, including Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming.
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
December 2, 2016
1/12 - This romance left me feeling flat. The plot was decent, the writing and editing reasonable, and Harry was a fine hero. Lola was irritating with her inability to stand up for herself and put herself first, but not fatally so. The worst part of this book was the lack of connection between Lola and Harry. This is my second London book and I had the same problem with the previous book. Her characters' lack of connection and sexual tension is starting look like a pattern. These were the first sex scenes I've considered skimming in a very long time, there weren't too many so I didn't bother, but it was definitely on my mind.
The supporting characters (Lola's family, Harry's family and the others in East Beach) were all either irritating or worse and instead of being the comic relief that I think they were meant to be, they just made Lola appear even more of a push-over than before. At the end she may have found the courage to speak plainly to Harry, but I didn't see any evidence that she grew a backbone when it came to running around after her siblings and that was something I really was expecting to see as part of her growth through the book.
I'm really hoping that if I see another Lake Haven book at the library I'll remember how I feel right now and pass it by for something more promising.
The supporting characters (Lola's family, Harry's family and the others in East Beach) were all either irritating or worse and instead of being the comic relief that I think they were meant to be, they just made Lola appear even more of a push-over than before. At the end she may have found the courage to speak plainly to Harry, but I didn't see any evidence that she grew a backbone when it came to running around after her siblings and that was something I really was expecting to see as part of her growth through the book.
I'm really hoping that if I see another Lake Haven book at the library I'll remember how I feel right now and pass it by for something more promising.
October 9, 2019
What happens when you put others needs before your own? You end up supporting your siblings while working a job you despise. You end up marrying a man that takes advantage of you. And in a few years, you will end up divorced and miserable.
That's what happened to our protagonist, Lola. She even ended up at a divorce recovery group with other miserable people. Her yoga partner, Sara, dragged her to this group as she was going through a messy divorce too. They start to really develop a friendship when Sara realizes that Lola needs to take care of herself. She talks Lola into quitting her job to pursue her writing; Sara even offers up her vacation home in Lake Haven for her to stay at for the summer. The only thing is that she can't let anyone know that she is staying there because it is supposed to be off-limits due to the divorce. Lola can handle that and agrees to move in.
Little do they know, Zach, Sara's soon-to-be ex, has already offered the house to one of his buddies. Harry just got out of a serious relationship and he needs to sell his apartment to get funds to support his business. Zach tells Harry to stay at the lake house until he gets his business up and running.
Harry comes to lake house after work to see that a cyclone has came through the house. Junk is everywhere! And in the pool, there is the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. Lola has moved in. She packed his belongings up thinking that they were the caretakers. With the both of them refusing to leave, they reluctantly become roommates.
When Lola catches wind that one of her favorite authors writes at local coffee shop, she decides to pay it a visit. There she meets Mallory. A woman who has the connections that Lola needs to become a writer and the connections Harry needs to thrive as a civil engineer. In order to advance in their careers, they agree to start "dating."
Now that they are suddenly dating and spending more time together, lines start to get blurred. With Lola's burdens coming back into play and Harry's ex still lingering, can they really make this work? You gotta read to find out, folks!
This is my second book by Julia London; this first being the first book in this series. I really like that her stories are relatable and quirky. However, I can't help but to feel like some things are overdone - like the million side characters. And if you are going to use the whole hero/heroine doesn't like each other plot, it needs to be done right. Sorry! Even with all its flaws, I still say that this is an enjoyable read.
3 Stars!
That's what happened to our protagonist, Lola. She even ended up at a divorce recovery group with other miserable people. Her yoga partner, Sara, dragged her to this group as she was going through a messy divorce too. They start to really develop a friendship when Sara realizes that Lola needs to take care of herself. She talks Lola into quitting her job to pursue her writing; Sara even offers up her vacation home in Lake Haven for her to stay at for the summer. The only thing is that she can't let anyone know that she is staying there because it is supposed to be off-limits due to the divorce. Lola can handle that and agrees to move in.
Little do they know, Zach, Sara's soon-to-be ex, has already offered the house to one of his buddies. Harry just got out of a serious relationship and he needs to sell his apartment to get funds to support his business. Zach tells Harry to stay at the lake house until he gets his business up and running.
Harry comes to lake house after work to see that a cyclone has came through the house. Junk is everywhere! And in the pool, there is the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. Lola has moved in. She packed his belongings up thinking that they were the caretakers. With the both of them refusing to leave, they reluctantly become roommates.
When Lola catches wind that one of her favorite authors writes at local coffee shop, she decides to pay it a visit. There she meets Mallory. A woman who has the connections that Lola needs to become a writer and the connections Harry needs to thrive as a civil engineer. In order to advance in their careers, they agree to start "dating."
Now that they are suddenly dating and spending more time together, lines start to get blurred. With Lola's burdens coming back into play and Harry's ex still lingering, can they really make this work? You gotta read to find out, folks!
This is my second book by Julia London; this first being the first book in this series. I really like that her stories are relatable and quirky. However, I can't help but to feel like some things are overdone - like the million side characters. And if you are going to use the whole hero/heroine doesn't like each other plot, it needs to be done right. Sorry! Even with all its flaws, I still say that this is an enjoyable read.
3 Stars!
August 31, 2016
Suddenly Dating is a warm, humorous, and realistic look at love the second time around. Civil Engineer Harry’s longtime girlfriend has dumped him for working long hours while trying to get his business off the ground. Lola is a struggling writer whose husband left her for another woman. The meet-cute is when they are both loaned the same beach house for the summer by each side of a couple embattled in a bitter divorce. They decide to make the best of a bad situation and become housemates.
Lola is hoping to meet a famous author who lives in the local town, and who she wants to mentor her. Harry tries to hook up with a local developer who has the means to help him get contracts to build his bridges. Lola and Harry become friends and make some friends; and Harry has to fend off the attentions of both the famous author and his ex-girlfriend....and along the way there becomes the possibility of something more between them as their friendship evolves.
Another lovely story in an engaging series; and I'm becoming quite the fan of Julia London’s contemporary romances.
Lola is hoping to meet a famous author who lives in the local town, and who she wants to mentor her. Harry tries to hook up with a local developer who has the means to help him get contracts to build his bridges. Lola and Harry become friends and make some friends; and Harry has to fend off the attentions of both the famous author and his ex-girlfriend....and along the way there becomes the possibility of something more between them as their friendship evolves.
Another lovely story in an engaging series; and I'm becoming quite the fan of Julia London’s contemporary romances.
December 20, 2016
Lola has lost her courage. Being shouted at on a regular basis by her mother, taking care of her younger siblings and being dumped by the man she promised to love for the rest of her life made her compliant and invisible. It's time she starts thinking about herself and the first step is doing something she's always wanted to do. A friend offers her a summer stay at a luxurious holiday home in Lake Haven and Lola knows this is her chance to do something for herself.
When Lola arrives at the house it's empty, but there's stuff everywhere. Soon she finds out that her friend's soon-to-be ex-husband has invited someone to stay at the house as well. Lola has to share the place with Harry and he isn't happy about it. Harry has just been left by his girlfriend, because he is too career driven and wants to invest heavily in his company. He's an engineer and his dream job is building bridges. Harry works a lot of hours and when he comes home he doesn't want to find Lola's mess. To make things work between them Harry and Lola have to find a way to get along. Will they still be able to pursue their dreams and what will their stay at Lake Haven bring them?
Suddenly Dating is a great story with plenty of depth. Harry and Lola are both in their thirties and they're trying to make their dreams come true. It's a topic I loved. Julia London writes about it in a wonderful realistic way. She perfectly describes what's going on inside her main characters' minds and that was definitely interesting to read. Harry and Lola have time to think about their choices and to make plans for their future. They're at a crossroads and they are there together, which makes the story fun to read.
Lola is a sweetheart. She wants to take care of everyone and therefore slaves away for her family and also for people she doesn't know that well. She's being used and that was difficult to see. Even when she is effacing herself her beautiful personality keeps shining through. When Lola is the person she is inside she's dazzling, she is special and she's completely unaware of it. I loved her sparkle, her wit and her sense of humor. Her conversations with Harry are fascinating, their banter is fabulous, and it's clear from the beginning that they're made for each other.
While Lola has always struggled to make ends meet Harry is in that situation for the first time. He comes from a rich background and doing his own thing means he's disappointed many people. I loved that he keeps chasing his dreams. He doesn't give up, even when he's constantly being pressured. While being away from his usual scene he has the time to find out who he wants to be. He's kindhearted and caring. He's a gorgeous man who's easy to like and he's perfect for Lola. I loved their amazing chemistry and couldn't wait to find out what would happen to them after their stay in Lake Haven.
Suddenly Dating is a multilayered story. I liked the psychology behind the personalities of the main characters, which is thought-provoking. I enjoyed witnessing how Lola and Harry slowly find their way. Lake Haven has so much to offer them and there are plenty of ups and downs. Some of them are really funny. Julia London has a nice sense of humor that makes her story easy to love. Suddenly Dating is a very romantic story with a lot of surprising twists and turns. It's a book to slowly savor and enjoy at leisure.
When Lola arrives at the house it's empty, but there's stuff everywhere. Soon she finds out that her friend's soon-to-be ex-husband has invited someone to stay at the house as well. Lola has to share the place with Harry and he isn't happy about it. Harry has just been left by his girlfriend, because he is too career driven and wants to invest heavily in his company. He's an engineer and his dream job is building bridges. Harry works a lot of hours and when he comes home he doesn't want to find Lola's mess. To make things work between them Harry and Lola have to find a way to get along. Will they still be able to pursue their dreams and what will their stay at Lake Haven bring them?
Suddenly Dating is a great story with plenty of depth. Harry and Lola are both in their thirties and they're trying to make their dreams come true. It's a topic I loved. Julia London writes about it in a wonderful realistic way. She perfectly describes what's going on inside her main characters' minds and that was definitely interesting to read. Harry and Lola have time to think about their choices and to make plans for their future. They're at a crossroads and they are there together, which makes the story fun to read.
Lola is a sweetheart. She wants to take care of everyone and therefore slaves away for her family and also for people she doesn't know that well. She's being used and that was difficult to see. Even when she is effacing herself her beautiful personality keeps shining through. When Lola is the person she is inside she's dazzling, she is special and she's completely unaware of it. I loved her sparkle, her wit and her sense of humor. Her conversations with Harry are fascinating, their banter is fabulous, and it's clear from the beginning that they're made for each other.
While Lola has always struggled to make ends meet Harry is in that situation for the first time. He comes from a rich background and doing his own thing means he's disappointed many people. I loved that he keeps chasing his dreams. He doesn't give up, even when he's constantly being pressured. While being away from his usual scene he has the time to find out who he wants to be. He's kindhearted and caring. He's a gorgeous man who's easy to like and he's perfect for Lola. I loved their amazing chemistry and couldn't wait to find out what would happen to them after their stay in Lake Haven.
Suddenly Dating is a multilayered story. I liked the psychology behind the personalities of the main characters, which is thought-provoking. I enjoyed witnessing how Lola and Harry slowly find their way. Lake Haven has so much to offer them and there are plenty of ups and downs. Some of them are really funny. Julia London has a nice sense of humor that makes her story easy to love. Suddenly Dating is a very romantic story with a lot of surprising twists and turns. It's a book to slowly savor and enjoy at leisure.
November 11, 2016
Actual Rating: 4.5
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review.**
A sweet and quirky romance!
Harry has a problem. Well, a few of them. His relationship recently went on a "break" that appears to be permanent. He can't seem to keep his company afloat. He's about to be homeless, after selling his apartment in order to fund his business. Oh, and his mother still doesn't approve of his leaving a cushy job to start his own company.
Likewise, Lola is in a rut. Her family are entirely too dependent on her to play the role of mother-hen. Her actual mother is a train wreck, in the worst way possible. The job she has isn't really the one she wants. And then there is her terrible habit of striving to please everyone in her life, except for herself.
The solution to Harry's problem is to take up residence in a friend's East Beach home for the summer. The home is currently empty while his friend is going through a divorce. Unfortunately, the home also still belongs to another, until the divorce is finalized. That woman offers Lola the same East Beach home for the summer. There, in solitude, Lola can finally fulfill her dream of writing a book.
As you could probably guess, occupying the same space with a complete stranger is not exactly what Harry and Lola had in mind. But neither is willing to give up the house and so the struggle begins. Toss in a famous author, ex-girlfriend, swinger's party, and selfish mother (or two!) and you have a recipe for an enticing story!
This was a quick read for me. I loved Harry from the beginning. His ambition was admirable and I even chuckled at his OCD tendencies. Lola, I felt sympathy for throughout the book. I did want to shake some sense into her, at times, but found her personality to be believable. There are definitely people-pleasers out there, just like her, who could relate to her story.
The tension between the couple grew steadily into passionate chemistry as Harry and Lola got to know each other better and found a rhythm to their madness. Oh, and the romance sizzled, too. Watching our couple learn to trust in each other, and themselves, added a deeper level of emotion to the story. It was a great read!
In closing...
Building bridges, writing books, and finding love! 4.5 suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2016/11/review-tour-suddenly-dating-by-julia.html
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for honest review.**
A sweet and quirky romance!
Harry has a problem. Well, a few of them. His relationship recently went on a "break" that appears to be permanent. He can't seem to keep his company afloat. He's about to be homeless, after selling his apartment in order to fund his business. Oh, and his mother still doesn't approve of his leaving a cushy job to start his own company.
Likewise, Lola is in a rut. Her family are entirely too dependent on her to play the role of mother-hen. Her actual mother is a train wreck, in the worst way possible. The job she has isn't really the one she wants. And then there is her terrible habit of striving to please everyone in her life, except for herself.
The solution to Harry's problem is to take up residence in a friend's East Beach home for the summer. The home is currently empty while his friend is going through a divorce. Unfortunately, the home also still belongs to another, until the divorce is finalized. That woman offers Lola the same East Beach home for the summer. There, in solitude, Lola can finally fulfill her dream of writing a book.
As you could probably guess, occupying the same space with a complete stranger is not exactly what Harry and Lola had in mind. But neither is willing to give up the house and so the struggle begins. Toss in a famous author, ex-girlfriend, swinger's party, and selfish mother (or two!) and you have a recipe for an enticing story!
This was a quick read for me. I loved Harry from the beginning. His ambition was admirable and I even chuckled at his OCD tendencies. Lola, I felt sympathy for throughout the book. I did want to shake some sense into her, at times, but found her personality to be believable. There are definitely people-pleasers out there, just like her, who could relate to her story.
The tension between the couple grew steadily into passionate chemistry as Harry and Lola got to know each other better and found a rhythm to their madness. Oh, and the romance sizzled, too. Watching our couple learn to trust in each other, and themselves, added a deeper level of emotion to the story. It was a great read!
In closing...
Building bridges, writing books, and finding love! 4.5 suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2016/11/review-tour-suddenly-dating-by-julia.html
November 5, 2016
The second novel in a Lake haven series takes you back to the beautiful lake with the quirky town people we all love. Both Lola and Harry have been given a break by their friend. A rent free stay in the lake side house that is currently involved in a nasty divorce. The funny thing is that it they are both given permission by different spouses.
Harry has just went through a rough break up. He is having trouble keeping his business afloat and when his friend Zac offers him the chance to stay at the lakehouse in Lake Haven for freee he jumps at the chance. It will allow him to sell his apartment to get some much needed cash flow in his business. When he comes home from a long week at work he is stunned to find a strange women in the house he is living in.
Lola has always put everyone before herself. From her ex husband, to her siblings, and even her abusive mother. Everyone takes priority over her. When her friend Sara offers her the chance to focus on herself for once and spend the summer in Lake haven pursing her dream of writing she finally takes a chance on herself. Let does she know that the house is already occupied.
The two roommates start out at each others throat. Neither wanting to give up their space in the house. They come to a agreement and both decide to stay. As they continue to bicker with one another, they start to find that they have a lot in common and over a plate of lobster mac and cheese a friendship is born.
But as the two find that they have a great deal in common the sparks start to fly. As they realize that this might be something more than a summer fling their new romance is challenged by an old flame and insecurities.
Great story. Hope to see another in the series soon.
Harry has just went through a rough break up. He is having trouble keeping his business afloat and when his friend Zac offers him the chance to stay at the lakehouse in Lake Haven for freee he jumps at the chance. It will allow him to sell his apartment to get some much needed cash flow in his business. When he comes home from a long week at work he is stunned to find a strange women in the house he is living in.
Lola has always put everyone before herself. From her ex husband, to her siblings, and even her abusive mother. Everyone takes priority over her. When her friend Sara offers her the chance to focus on herself for once and spend the summer in Lake haven pursing her dream of writing she finally takes a chance on herself. Let does she know that the house is already occupied.
The two roommates start out at each others throat. Neither wanting to give up their space in the house. They come to a agreement and both decide to stay. As they continue to bicker with one another, they start to find that they have a lot in common and over a plate of lobster mac and cheese a friendship is born.
But as the two find that they have a great deal in common the sparks start to fly. As they realize that this might be something more than a summer fling their new romance is challenged by an old flame and insecurities.
Great story. Hope to see another in the series soon.
November 8, 2016
I'm a huge fan of Julia London. I really enjoy her books. She has a wonderful way with her characters. They always seem to have the same issues as us. She writes true to life characters. Something I really enjoy.
Suddenly Dating is the second book in the Lake Haven series. I really enjoyed the first book, Suddenly in Love and also liked Suddenly Dating.
I will admit that I enjoyed Suddenly in Love much better. Of course that some times happens with series or trilogies where you like some or most of the books in the series not all.
I will say that I really liked Harry. He drew me to him right away. Great hero material. I liked how he acted in the story. I wanted to know more about him and what his future was going to be.
I also liked Lola too, I just wish she wasn't so much like milk toast. She seemed to let those around her really pick or take advantage of her. I just at times couldn't take it.
It also seem that the only person that she could stand up to was poor Harry. I know that happens in books, hell it also happens in real life where we seem to take out on those that we feel won't leave us. I just was hoping for her moment of strength.
Other then some personality issues I had I liked the rest of the story. I'm hoping the next book will have the same feel and the first book in the series.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
ARC received for a honest review
Suddenly Dating is the second book in the Lake Haven series. I really enjoyed the first book, Suddenly in Love and also liked Suddenly Dating.
I will admit that I enjoyed Suddenly in Love much better. Of course that some times happens with series or trilogies where you like some or most of the books in the series not all.
I will say that I really liked Harry. He drew me to him right away. Great hero material. I liked how he acted in the story. I wanted to know more about him and what his future was going to be.
I also liked Lola too, I just wish she wasn't so much like milk toast. She seemed to let those around her really pick or take advantage of her. I just at times couldn't take it.
It also seem that the only person that she could stand up to was poor Harry. I know that happens in books, hell it also happens in real life where we seem to take out on those that we feel won't leave us. I just was hoping for her moment of strength.
Other then some personality issues I had I liked the rest of the story. I'm hoping the next book will have the same feel and the first book in the series.
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Romancing the Readers Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
ARC received for a honest review
December 7, 2016
Thanks to NetGalley, I had my 1st taste of Julia London... and I'm not sure I want seconds. I've heard her name bandied about the romantic fiction world and I've had her as a TBR author. I'm hoping this was a weaker offering from her and that her reputation is built on stronger stuff.
What didn't I like about this book? Most of the characters. That includes our protagonist Lola (funny enough, I haven't met many dogs named Lola. I have met more Lucys) who I could not associate as the "responsible" one in her family. I couldn't figure how anyone with her paralegal income could swan about town buying delicious dinner ingredients, swanky outfits, loan $50 to her little sister for a sweater, etc. and be her family's savior. How could someone with her messy habits and avoidance personality have raised and supported 4 siblings and cared for a home? And we won't get into her choice of party-hard friends Mallory and Nolan. As the "little mother," you'd think she'd be smarter in how she behaves.
This book was a huge bit of fantasy and meant as escapism, but I wish there was a touch more heart and reality to counterbalance our heroine's whimsy. I had a hard time investing myself in Lola's journey. 1.5 stars.
What didn't I like about this book? Most of the characters. That includes our protagonist Lola (funny enough, I haven't met many dogs named Lola. I have met more Lucys) who I could not associate as the "responsible" one in her family. I couldn't figure how anyone with her paralegal income could swan about town buying delicious dinner ingredients, swanky outfits, loan $50 to her little sister for a sweater, etc. and be her family's savior. How could someone with her messy habits and avoidance personality have raised and supported 4 siblings and cared for a home? And we won't get into her choice of party-hard friends Mallory and Nolan. As the "little mother," you'd think she'd be smarter in how she behaves.
This book was a huge bit of fantasy and meant as escapism, but I wish there was a touch more heart and reality to counterbalance our heroine's whimsy. I had a hard time investing myself in Lola's journey. 1.5 stars.
December 13, 2017
I think this series just improves with each successive book. My favorite was book 3, but this is a nice second. Great characters, although I think the story could have used more humor. Julia London is just so great with banter that she keeps outdoing herself. I'm always up for more.
Cristina Panfilio is absolutely stellar in this series on audio. Each new character's voice is unique and she makes it such a pleasure to enjoy the story.
Cristina Panfilio is absolutely stellar in this series on audio. Each new character's voice is unique and she makes it such a pleasure to enjoy the story.
November 9, 2016
Lola Dunne was too good. She's always there to help and pick up the pieces. As a child she held her family together after her father's death and her mother's drug use made her unable to care for her family. As an adult she let her husband walk out on her after he was caught cheating. When a friend tells her to wake up and quit being a doormat, Lola decides enough is enough. she accepts her offer to stay in her house in Lake Haven. She will follow her dream and finish writing her novel. She'll be successful. Right? It might be harder than she thinks. Suddenly she has a sexy, stubborn man as an unexpected roommate. Harry is a bridge builder. He's talented and struggling to keep his business afloat. When he has to sell his New York apartment, his live-in girlfriend broke up with him. He needs to stay in Lake Haven. Can he and Lola share this lake house without killing each other? I loved this romantic tale. Lola and Harry come from different worlds, but they both have family issues. They may fight, but their attraction grows and they become romantically involved. I cared about these two and I wanted them to find happiness together. It was a rocky romance when Harry's ex-girlfriend comes back. I didn't want Lola to be noble and walk away. She deserves to be happy. The beauty and luxury of Lake Haven was the perfect setting for a HEA. Lola's fertile imagination made me laugh. Her book was quirky. Julia London writes such amazing characters. I couldn't put down Suddenly Dating. I wanted to know How two people who are complete opposites could overcome their differences and make a life together.
November 12, 2016
SUDDENLY DATING is an engaging story by Julia London. It brings together two people who have lost at love and now they are each forced to be roomies thru their friendships of a divorcing couple. Lola is divorced and wants to heal and also try her hand at writing. Harry is recovering from a break-up with his girlfriend who got tired of his always working. He was trying to build a new business so they could have a great future, but patience wasn't his ex's virtue.
At first, Harry and Lola are like fire and rain. Harry is a little uptight and Lola is messy and sparks begin to fly. Eventually they stop sparring and start to talk and listen to each other. They might be a temporary fling or could it grow to something more?
Lola has some issues. She lets people take advantage of her. She knows in her head she can be more assertive, but it rarely happens. Except with Harry. Sometimes she didn't listen to him and she pushed him away by her doubts while she pursued her new dream. Another problem is Harry's ex might want him back.
I grew to love Harry. He was focused and had a shot of making his business a dream come true. Even though he came from a wealthy family, he wanted to achieve his goals his way. No one was more surprised that Lola could be part of that future than he was. If only he could convince the insecure Lola. All in all, this was a sassy read with two opposites finding love under some amusing circumstances.
Review copy by NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion
At first, Harry and Lola are like fire and rain. Harry is a little uptight and Lola is messy and sparks begin to fly. Eventually they stop sparring and start to talk and listen to each other. They might be a temporary fling or could it grow to something more?
Lola has some issues. She lets people take advantage of her. She knows in her head she can be more assertive, but it rarely happens. Except with Harry. Sometimes she didn't listen to him and she pushed him away by her doubts while she pursued her new dream. Another problem is Harry's ex might want him back.
I grew to love Harry. He was focused and had a shot of making his business a dream come true. Even though he came from a wealthy family, he wanted to achieve his goals his way. No one was more surprised that Lola could be part of that future than he was. If only he could convince the insecure Lola. All in all, this was a sassy read with two opposites finding love under some amusing circumstances.
Review copy by NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion
February 15, 2017
I am fast becoming a fan of Julia London’s ability to write self-sacrificing characters who, because of their kind-hearted nature, have been taken for granted, facing challenges with a brave face, sometimes at the detriment of their own happiness. Her sensitivity with exploring these characters vulnerabilities without making them look insipid is what I find most appealing. Putting others first is the main character trait of the main heroines in this Lake Haven series, their ‘aha’ moments coming after meeting ‘the one’, the person who shifts their world on its axis and makes them re-evaluate what they really want out of life, helping them to acknowledge that wanting, and then taking, something for yourself isn’t selfish if it comes from a place of love.
While we are venturing back to Lake Haven, the characters from Book One only make a cameo appearance, but the author is setting up this community, interweaving the characters and building story-lines that keep me coming back for more, even though you could read Suddenly Dating as a standalone. But why would you when I gushed over Book One?
Read my full review on Scandalicious Book Reviews
While we are venturing back to Lake Haven, the characters from Book One only make a cameo appearance, but the author is setting up this community, interweaving the characters and building story-lines that keep me coming back for more, even though you could read Suddenly Dating as a standalone. But why would you when I gushed over Book One?
Read my full review on Scandalicious Book Reviews
November 7, 2016
I would call it a second chance at romance and first steps to true first lasting love. Lola and Harry have both been through a lot. Both needing time to heal and move on. Lola works to make her novel a realization and gather herself for dating. Harry just needs to get away and forget. Two different people with two different friends, two different goals, and one single house for the summer.
Lola looks to make her dreams come true with her writing career. While at the same time trying to attain a mentor that could make the difference in success or failure. Harry has a similar goal but with a successful developer. There was more than just work going on here. The had fun getting to know each other while interacting with the people of East Beach.
What I found was a sweet-tempered romance that built over the course of their varied interactions. The was laughter along the way to new friendship and them maybe more. Looking for a sweet, simple, summer romance pick up the newest edition to the Lake Haven series.
**This ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Lola looks to make her dreams come true with her writing career. While at the same time trying to attain a mentor that could make the difference in success or failure. Harry has a similar goal but with a successful developer. There was more than just work going on here. The had fun getting to know each other while interacting with the people of East Beach.
What I found was a sweet-tempered romance that built over the course of their varied interactions. The was laughter along the way to new friendship and them maybe more. Looking for a sweet, simple, summer romance pick up the newest edition to the Lake Haven series.
**This ARC was provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
November 7, 2016
Excellent book! I really enjoyed these characters. They were very well developed and the writing in this book is great. There's a nice easy flow to the story and lots of good humor. All combined it makes for a very entertaining read.
Harry Westbrook is working hard to get his bridge building construction company off the ground but it's taking everything he has. Financially, emotionally, and physically. His live in girlfriend doesn't understand why he wants this so bad when he could have a perfectly fine job at the firm he just left. When she calls it quits and he finds himself homeless when his apartment sale goes through he takes a friend up on an offer to stay at his lake house. Life is going fine until Lola Dunne shows up. She's an aspiring author and was offered the lake house from a friend of hers to get away from her troubles and concentrate on her writing. These two in one house is a recipe for disaster or maybe a recipe for happily ever after if they will just take a chance.
I highly recommend this one.
Harry Westbrook is working hard to get his bridge building construction company off the ground but it's taking everything he has. Financially, emotionally, and physically. His live in girlfriend doesn't understand why he wants this so bad when he could have a perfectly fine job at the firm he just left. When she calls it quits and he finds himself homeless when his apartment sale goes through he takes a friend up on an offer to stay at his lake house. Life is going fine until Lola Dunne shows up. She's an aspiring author and was offered the lake house from a friend of hers to get away from her troubles and concentrate on her writing. These two in one house is a recipe for disaster or maybe a recipe for happily ever after if they will just take a chance.
I highly recommend this one.
July 15, 2017
First, I love the crazy way Harry and Lola meet. Throughout the story it seemed Lola had no backbone because she never stood up for herself. She allowed her family, friends, and even her ex-husband to just walk all over her. It seems her father's death and her mother's life-long romance with illegal drugs forced Lola to be a care-taker of her brothers and sisters, at such a young age, that complete denial of herself seems to be her only way of coping with her out of control life. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book, (Goodreads winner). Thank you!
October 23, 2016
When Lola gets a tad bit too eager it's best to let Harry take the lead, "she tried to slide off to push them down, but her knee hit him in the groin. Harry came up with a hiss. “Look,” he said, and reached behind her and unhooked her bra. “I really appreciate your willingness to take charge here . . . but how about you let me worry about clothes and logistics..." I really liked this book, loved Harry.
November 12, 2016
I'm a sucker for enemies to lovers. This was really cute. A lot better than what I thought it would be. Humorous and quick read.
February 14, 2017
go to Scandalicious Book Reviews to see Lee's complete review on Suddenly Dating:
http://bit.ly/2knl9Hn
http://bit.ly/2knl9Hn
October 26, 2016
I have to say, I thought I was going to love Suddenly Dating. They first few chapters seemed promising, and I could relate to Engineer Harry Westbrook. He reminded me of someone I know... and then it was soooooooooo slow. I mean, painfully slow for me.
The plot has been done before, and. the characters were not rememberable.
The plot has been done before, and. the characters were not rememberable.
October 17, 2018
3.5★★★✩
November 3, 2016
*ARC In Exchange for Honest Review*
To say I liked Suddenly Dating by Julia London would be an understatement! I absolutely loved this book! Julia did an awesome job with the characters and the whole story line. The emotions within this book were enough to keep you going and "Hardhat Harry" definitely made me swoon!
Lola Dunne is an aspiring writer, or so she wants to be but she cant seem to find time to do anything for herself because she lets everyone else walk all over her. She is recently divorced and unhappy with her job. She just wants to write a book and enjoy herself. When a friend offers her a reprieve to use her lake house in secret, she decides to quit her job and do it. Maybe she will finally write that book and relax. What she comes across at the lake house is definitely not something she expected!
Harry Westbrook is an engineer who is trying to start up his own business, and his girlfriend is not happy about it because she feels he is failing. After the multiple times she leaves him, he takes up a friends offer to live at his lake house. Selling his apartment and living at the lake house is great, until he comes home one night and finds a beautiful stranger in the house.
Lola and Harry were amazing! They were a great pairing because they had amazing chemistry, especially with the bickering. They were so set on being roommates and setting ground rules, that they didn't pay attention to how great they were together! The constant bickering and her clumsiness made me laugh so much. There were a couple times I wanted to smack both characters, but hey I think that comes with every book!
This was my first book by Julia and I would definitely read another one. I would love to see a book for Mallory because she was so funny and deserves a happy ending!
5 stars from me!!
Reviewed By : Jodi N.
To say I liked Suddenly Dating by Julia London would be an understatement! I absolutely loved this book! Julia did an awesome job with the characters and the whole story line. The emotions within this book were enough to keep you going and "Hardhat Harry" definitely made me swoon!
Lola Dunne is an aspiring writer, or so she wants to be but she cant seem to find time to do anything for herself because she lets everyone else walk all over her. She is recently divorced and unhappy with her job. She just wants to write a book and enjoy herself. When a friend offers her a reprieve to use her lake house in secret, she decides to quit her job and do it. Maybe she will finally write that book and relax. What she comes across at the lake house is definitely not something she expected!
Harry Westbrook is an engineer who is trying to start up his own business, and his girlfriend is not happy about it because she feels he is failing. After the multiple times she leaves him, he takes up a friends offer to live at his lake house. Selling his apartment and living at the lake house is great, until he comes home one night and finds a beautiful stranger in the house.
Lola and Harry were amazing! They were a great pairing because they had amazing chemistry, especially with the bickering. They were so set on being roommates and setting ground rules, that they didn't pay attention to how great they were together! The constant bickering and her clumsiness made me laugh so much. There were a couple times I wanted to smack both characters, but hey I think that comes with every book!
This was my first book by Julia and I would definitely read another one. I would love to see a book for Mallory because she was so funny and deserves a happy ending!
5 stars from me!!
Reviewed By : Jodi N.
October 16, 2016
I've only read Julia London's historical romance before and I picked this title on a whim just from reading the blurb. The second entry of Lake Haven series, Suddenly Dating could be read as a standalone. This might be personal take, but I haven't read the previous one yet having no difficulty following the story.
While it's not an entirely flunked experience, for me this had been grabbing-my-head-in-frustration ride because of the characters. And THAT not only the annoying ones surrounding the main casts, but the hero and heroine themselves!
Granted, the root of the matter here was heroine's nature of difficulty to say no; thus often had her taken for granted or manipulated by others to do something for them. But GADS, how Lola tried my patience! I couldn't even justify the humor tone in the story to swallow her meek acceptance over and over.
On earlier pages, I was having the same issue with Harry. But at least he grew a pair, took matters to task, and move on. He was definitely the plus point in the book for me.
Other exasperating point in here was the number of annoying female secondaries in the story. On top of a meek heroine, this didn't really put female in good stead.
That saying, the story might work for others. After all, reading is a personal experience and those who don't share the feeling I do might love this book instead.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
While it's not an entirely flunked experience, for me this had been grabbing-my-head-in-frustration ride because of the characters. And THAT not only the annoying ones surrounding the main casts, but the hero and heroine themselves!
Granted, the root of the matter here was heroine's nature of difficulty to say no; thus often had her taken for granted or manipulated by others to do something for them. But GADS, how Lola tried my patience! I couldn't even justify the humor tone in the story to swallow her meek acceptance over and over.
On earlier pages, I was having the same issue with Harry. But at least he grew a pair, took matters to task, and move on. He was definitely the plus point in the book for me.
Other exasperating point in here was the number of annoying female secondaries in the story. On top of a meek heroine, this didn't really put female in good stead.
That saying, the story might work for others. After all, reading is a personal experience and those who don't share the feeling I do might love this book instead.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2019
2.5 stars
I have mixed feelings. I've been sick and tired of friends-with-benefit love stories but I'm not judging the book negatively because of this.
The banter was good to great but I felt the story was dragging. It was one of those books I couldn't wait for it to end any sooner. The instant at the end was wow and not in a good way. It was too soon. They knew each other a couple months and just started developing feelings for each other for less than that. My logical brain couldn't accept it.
I wanted to like this couple. Individually, they were decent but together they were just meh. I wasn't rooting for them. Maybe it was because Come to think of it, I have a lot of issues with this book.
I have mixed feelings. I've been sick and tired of friends-with-benefit love stories but I'm not judging the book negatively because of this.
The banter was good to great but I felt the story was dragging. It was one of those books I couldn't wait for it to end any sooner. The instant at the end was wow and not in a good way. It was too soon. They knew each other a couple months and just started developing feelings for each other for less than that. My logical brain couldn't accept it.
I wanted to like this couple. Individually, they were decent but together they were just meh. I wasn't rooting for them. Maybe it was because Come to think of it, I have a lot of issues with this book.
November 8, 2016
I really enjoyed this book, the characters and humor were fun. Lola a fairly new divorcee lucks into a house by the lake to concentrate on writing a book. Harry is newly out of a serious relationship, staring a new business, has sold his apartment now thanks to his friend he has loaned him his lake house until he can get on his feet. You guess it, Lola's friend is Harry's friend's soon to be ex wife and Lola and Harry are thrown into a roomie situation. Lola has been responsible for her younger siblings since she was young, always putting others in front of herself but was she too nice. Harry is working hard to get his business off the ground, the long hours and little personal time part of the reason he's newly single. Now the unexpected roommates are having to work out living arrangements and mutual attraction. I felt it was a sweet story of two hard working people finally getting what the deserve.
December 11, 2017
You know when you pick up a book from Julia London, that you are going to pick up a nice light-hearted, fun romance.
And a lot of the time, what more do you want?
I love this author because I am guaranteed a good read that leave you feeling very good when you’ve finished.
This is the second in this trilogy/series.
From the start, Lola and Harry are complete opposites. But there is also something there between them.
The banter between the two characters made me laugh out loud at points.
In the end this couple were perfect for each other.
Very good writing with excellent characters as usual.
Highly recommend if you are a fan.
Read and reviewed courtesy of Netgalley
And a lot of the time, what more do you want?
I love this author because I am guaranteed a good read that leave you feeling very good when you’ve finished.
This is the second in this trilogy/series.
From the start, Lola and Harry are complete opposites. But there is also something there between them.
The banter between the two characters made me laugh out loud at points.
In the end this couple were perfect for each other.
Very good writing with excellent characters as usual.
Highly recommend if you are a fan.
Read and reviewed courtesy of Netgalley
December 11, 2018
This review was originally posted to Jen in Bookland
Suddenly Dating was a fun, quick, easy read. Lola and Harry were cute together and I enjoyed watching their story unfold.
Lola has always wanted to be a writer, but has never taken steps to do so. She gave up a lot to help her siblings go to school and do whatever they wanted to do, but they are all grown now and yet she still does whatever she can for them. She is still putting herself last and is a pushover. She was married to a guy who took advantage of her kind nature and yeah. She is now divorced, not happy in her job, not really where she wanted to be. When she becomes friends with another lady who is divorcing, her new friend talks her into quitting her job and using her summer house to write the book she always wanted. It should be peaceful and quiet and everything she needs to get her novel written.
Harry is an engineer who just got out of a relationship as well. He thought he would marry his ex, they broke up all the time and got back together, but she finally had enough and called it quits for good. He is trying to get his new business profitable and it is a lot of work. Work that cost him his girlfriend and she (and his family for that matter) doesn't understand why he didn't just keep working at the firm he was working at. He was making good money, but he wasn't happy there. He wanted his own company and he is determined to figure out a way to make it work.
When Harry's divorcing friend offers to let him stay at his summer home he jumps on the chance. He had to sell his place to keep financing his business and he wasn't looking forward to moving back in with his family. Everything should be great. Only of course Lola and Harry are both staying at the same place and let's just say they definitely do not get off to a good start. While Harry thinks she is the most beautiful women he has ever seen, they definitely don't like each other. Lola is messy and Harry is a neat freak. Both of them are stubborn and refuse to leave so they try and figure out a way to make it work. But it isn't easy. When Lola befriends a local and finds out her favorite author is nearby for the summer she is super excited to meet her. And her new friend can introduce her. And can also help Harry with his engineering business. So in order to help themselves they pretend to be dating. That will get Harry the in he needs and Lola can meet her idol. Only of course things get a bit mixed up when they start spending so much time together. They start falling for each other and it was really cute to watch.
Now my one issue with the story is Lola and how she never really learns to stand up for herself. She has her moments, but she doesn't really seem to have changed as much as I had hoped. She was sweet, but spineless and well...I wanted more for her. I want her to be amazing, but it was a fun read regardless.
Suddenly Dating was a fun, quick, easy read. Lola and Harry were cute together and I enjoyed watching their story unfold.
Lola has always wanted to be a writer, but has never taken steps to do so. She gave up a lot to help her siblings go to school and do whatever they wanted to do, but they are all grown now and yet she still does whatever she can for them. She is still putting herself last and is a pushover. She was married to a guy who took advantage of her kind nature and yeah. She is now divorced, not happy in her job, not really where she wanted to be. When she becomes friends with another lady who is divorcing, her new friend talks her into quitting her job and using her summer house to write the book she always wanted. It should be peaceful and quiet and everything she needs to get her novel written.
Harry is an engineer who just got out of a relationship as well. He thought he would marry his ex, they broke up all the time and got back together, but she finally had enough and called it quits for good. He is trying to get his new business profitable and it is a lot of work. Work that cost him his girlfriend and she (and his family for that matter) doesn't understand why he didn't just keep working at the firm he was working at. He was making good money, but he wasn't happy there. He wanted his own company and he is determined to figure out a way to make it work.
When Harry's divorcing friend offers to let him stay at his summer home he jumps on the chance. He had to sell his place to keep financing his business and he wasn't looking forward to moving back in with his family. Everything should be great. Only of course Lola and Harry are both staying at the same place and let's just say they definitely do not get off to a good start. While Harry thinks she is the most beautiful women he has ever seen, they definitely don't like each other. Lola is messy and Harry is a neat freak. Both of them are stubborn and refuse to leave so they try and figure out a way to make it work. But it isn't easy. When Lola befriends a local and finds out her favorite author is nearby for the summer she is super excited to meet her. And her new friend can introduce her. And can also help Harry with his engineering business. So in order to help themselves they pretend to be dating. That will get Harry the in he needs and Lola can meet her idol. Only of course things get a bit mixed up when they start spending so much time together. They start falling for each other and it was really cute to watch.
Now my one issue with the story is Lola and how she never really learns to stand up for herself. She has her moments, but she doesn't really seem to have changed as much as I had hoped. She was sweet, but spineless and well...I wanted more for her. I want her to be amazing, but it was a fun read regardless.
November 11, 2016
I really enjoyed Harry and Lola's story! It's a forced roommate/fake relationship/friends with benefits mashup kind of book (sounds confusing, I know--though it does feel a bit schizophrenic at times, it manages to work somehow) that had me both shaking my head and smiling at turns. Though I desperately wanted Lola to just put her foot down about a million times, I also got why she had so much trouble doing it. Thank goodness for Harry--he at least stayed focused on getting what he wanted from page one, even though his witchy girlfriend dumped him because of it and his mother was about a million times worse.
Actually, a whole lot of the secondary characters in this one leave much to be desired. Fortunately, Harry and Lola spend the bulk of their time together in an absolutely fantastic summer home that doesn't belong to either of them and that they shouldn't be in in the first place...but I digress. They're alone, in their own little bubble of total luxury, and it's better that way. Swimming and cooking and trashing the kitchen (that part's Lola) and freaking out about the trashed kitchen (Harry) and enjoying their mutual benefits and falling in love.
Sigh :)
And now it's time for me to leave my Harry and Lola bubble and go back to reality...until the next book, that is.
(Suddenly Dating is the second book in the series, but it absolutely works as a standalone. Mia and Everett from book one make an appearance, but they are very minor characters here, and there really isn't even a hint of their backstory, so...)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Actually, a whole lot of the secondary characters in this one leave much to be desired. Fortunately, Harry and Lola spend the bulk of their time together in an absolutely fantastic summer home that doesn't belong to either of them and that they shouldn't be in in the first place...but I digress. They're alone, in their own little bubble of total luxury, and it's better that way. Swimming and cooking and trashing the kitchen (that part's Lola) and freaking out about the trashed kitchen (Harry) and enjoying their mutual benefits and falling in love.
Sigh :)
And now it's time for me to leave my Harry and Lola bubble and go back to reality...until the next book, that is.
(Suddenly Dating is the second book in the series, but it absolutely works as a standalone. Mia and Everett from book one make an appearance, but they are very minor characters here, and there really isn't even a hint of their backstory, so...)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 3, 2017
There are characters that are obviously perfect for each other. And then there are characters that are more like Harry and Lola, characters that are imperfectly perfect. It's obvious to everyone that they were meant for each other, but the way they become a couple makes you shake your head a bit. It's a comedy of errors and I loved every single moment of it. I loved their banter and how they struggled living with each other. The constant rules and the fun they have testing each other's limits. The moment they finally come together and the little rough patches they face afterwards. Everything wasn't perfect for them, but I don't think they'd change one moment in their budding relationship. I loved how real they were. Both Harry and Lola are strong individuals that work hard to accomplish their dreams. Two characters that you just want to see succeed so badly and you want to see them happy that I may have had a happy sigh at the end of the book.
Suddenly Dating may have only been the 2nd book of Julia's that I've read, but I know it will not be my last. I love her characters to pieces. Her writing style is so much fun. She made me giggle at times, I ugly cried along with Lola. And of course I sighed when they expressed their true feelings. At the end of the day, I loved coming into this book after going through a bit of a reading slump because it rejuvenated me. I don't know who the couple will be in the next book. All I know is that I can't wait to fall in love with more of Julia's characters.
Advance copy gifted from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Suddenly Dating may have only been the 2nd book of Julia's that I've read, but I know it will not be my last. I love her characters to pieces. Her writing style is so much fun. She made me giggle at times, I ugly cried along with Lola. And of course I sighed when they expressed their true feelings. At the end of the day, I loved coming into this book after going through a bit of a reading slump because it rejuvenated me. I don't know who the couple will be in the next book. All I know is that I can't wait to fall in love with more of Julia's characters.
Advance copy gifted from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2016
This was a humorous story, I thoroughly enjoyed it!
After being dumped by his girlfriend...who he was beginning to think may be "the one"...because he's working too long hours while he's trying to get his business started. So his friend loans him his summer house. Lola's marriage ended when her husband left her for another woman and now she is trying to write a book. She is offered the loan of a summer house were she could write her novel. Great! Until she arrives there, and it's already occupied. This is where the fun begins. After their first meeting, Lola and Harry decide to make the best out of the situation and become housemates.
The couple had a difficult beginning to their unlikely friendship, but they're both hoping to meet certain people and they make plans, Lola, a famous author she idolizes, and Harry, a developer who can help him get contracts for the bridges he wishes to build. Things don't always go as planned though, and their bantering was great, and it wasn't too long before their friendship became something more.
There's a wonderful storyline, and lot's of great secondary characters, Mallory was one of my favourites. It's a book you won't want to put down once you've started. I loved it!
After being dumped by his girlfriend...who he was beginning to think may be "the one"...because he's working too long hours while he's trying to get his business started. So his friend loans him his summer house. Lola's marriage ended when her husband left her for another woman and now she is trying to write a book. She is offered the loan of a summer house were she could write her novel. Great! Until she arrives there, and it's already occupied. This is where the fun begins. After their first meeting, Lola and Harry decide to make the best out of the situation and become housemates.
The couple had a difficult beginning to their unlikely friendship, but they're both hoping to meet certain people and they make plans, Lola, a famous author she idolizes, and Harry, a developer who can help him get contracts for the bridges he wishes to build. Things don't always go as planned though, and their bantering was great, and it wasn't too long before their friendship became something more.
There's a wonderful storyline, and lot's of great secondary characters, Mallory was one of my favourites. It's a book you won't want to put down once you've started. I loved it!
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