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The Hiverton Sisters #1
A New Life for Ariana Byrne
Shortlisted for The Romantic Novelists' Association Debut Romantic Novel Award 2021
What happens after all your dreams come true?
Ariana Byrne knows how to survive. After becoming guardian to her four little sisters after their parents died when she was only eighteen, she had to grow up quickly. Now she’s in her twenties, stuck in a loveless marriage to Greg, trying to make ends meet for her young twins, William and Leo.
So when Ari is told that she’s actually the Right Honourable Lady de Foix, Countess of Hiverton, owner of a sprawling estate in the village of Saxburgh in Norfolk, her first instinct is laughter. Surely the girl who has to choose between food and keeping the lights on isn’t really rich beyond her wildest dreams?
She knows how to take care of her sisters and her children, but how on earth can Ari take care of an entire village? Can she fight off the circling land developers from Saxburgh, and stop her in-laws from grabbing all the money for themselves?
And while she’s struggling to settle in and settle down, she’s making new friends and new mistakes. Trusting her gorgeous neighbour, Sebastian Flint-Hyssop, may be the biggest one of all…
She’s swapped sink estate for country estate…but can a girl from inner city London learn how to become a Lady?
Take a trip to Hiverton Manor for the most uplifting novel of 2020 – guaranteed to put a smile on your face! Fans of Jenny Colgan, Trisha Ashley and Carole Matthews will love this romantic, feelgood read.
Readers are loving A New Life for Ariana Byrne!:
‘This is an absolutely perfect and gorgeous read. I have loved every single page.…There is no way I can give this book anything less than five stars. It’s been a joy to read.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87
‘I loved this book. I loved the characters, I loved that there were so many strong female personalities…Everything about this novel was fab’ Chapter and Cake
‘I had a great big smile on my face while reading…Funny, feel-good and fabulous, this is an exceptional tale fans of Katie Fforde and Jill Mansell are going to love…fantastic romantic comedy that will make you giggle on many an occasion.’ Bookish Jottings
‘If you’re looking for a truly heartwarming story, this has to be a top contender… I found it easy to escape into this lovely story and have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending it.’ Splashes Into Books
‘such an uplifting, enjoyable page turner that it was a delight to read!... Having characters as brilliant as these, with such phenomenal development, makes this rags to riches romance a thoroughly enjoyable read.’ Books and Bookends
‘Totally loved this book and read it in one day, even
though it almost led to 24 hours without sleep just to finish it!’ Tizi’s Book Reviews
‘The book was a pleasure to read, it had some lovely characters and I really enjoyed the setting of the book too…It is 5 stars from me for this on
What happens after all your dreams come true?
Ariana Byrne knows how to survive. After becoming guardian to her four little sisters after their parents died when she was only eighteen, she had to grow up quickly. Now she’s in her twenties, stuck in a loveless marriage to Greg, trying to make ends meet for her young twins, William and Leo.
So when Ari is told that she’s actually the Right Honourable Lady de Foix, Countess of Hiverton, owner of a sprawling estate in the village of Saxburgh in Norfolk, her first instinct is laughter. Surely the girl who has to choose between food and keeping the lights on isn’t really rich beyond her wildest dreams?
She knows how to take care of her sisters and her children, but how on earth can Ari take care of an entire village? Can she fight off the circling land developers from Saxburgh, and stop her in-laws from grabbing all the money for themselves?
And while she’s struggling to settle in and settle down, she’s making new friends and new mistakes. Trusting her gorgeous neighbour, Sebastian Flint-Hyssop, may be the biggest one of all…
She’s swapped sink estate for country estate…but can a girl from inner city London learn how to become a Lady?
Take a trip to Hiverton Manor for the most uplifting novel of 2020 – guaranteed to put a smile on your face! Fans of Jenny Colgan, Trisha Ashley and Carole Matthews will love this romantic, feelgood read.
Readers are loving A New Life for Ariana Byrne!:
‘This is an absolutely perfect and gorgeous read. I have loved every single page.…There is no way I can give this book anything less than five stars. It’s been a joy to read.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87
‘I loved this book. I loved the characters, I loved that there were so many strong female personalities…Everything about this novel was fab’ Chapter and Cake
‘I had a great big smile on my face while reading…Funny, feel-good and fabulous, this is an exceptional tale fans of Katie Fforde and Jill Mansell are going to love…fantastic romantic comedy that will make you giggle on many an occasion.’ Bookish Jottings
‘If you’re looking for a truly heartwarming story, this has to be a top contender… I found it easy to escape into this lovely story and have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending it.’ Splashes Into Books
‘such an uplifting, enjoyable page turner that it was a delight to read!... Having characters as brilliant as these, with such phenomenal development, makes this rags to riches romance a thoroughly enjoyable read.’ Books and Bookends
‘Totally loved this book and read it in one day, even
though it almost led to 24 hours without sleep just to finish it!’ Tizi’s Book Reviews
‘The book was a pleasure to read, it had some lovely characters and I really enjoyed the setting of the book too…It is 5 stars from me for this on
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 12, 2020
161 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
February 15, 2020
What a fabulous little gem! This was a feel good, rags to riches, small town romance and I loved it! Ariana has had a hard life.. her parents were killed in a tragic accident when she was 18 and this left her in charge of her four younger sisters. She thought she had found true love with her boyfriend Greg, but after an unexpected pregnancy and the birth of twin boys she found out that Greg was no prince. Trapped in a loveless marriage and struggling to pay the bills Ari is shocked when she finds out that she has inherited a title, an estate, and a fortune. Ari is given an opportunity to leave her marriage and take her two little boys and head to the country and her new life. What follows is a delightful story about Ari adapting to her new circumstances. Not only has she inherited the title, but she has also inherited the reputation of her family and she is more than determined to shake that.
This book was so fun. I loved Ari she was such a great character that I could not help but cheer for. I love how devoted she was to her boys and to her sisters. She was also so spunky, strong, and smart when it came to dealing with all the things she had to deal with involving her new life. The romance in this book was sweet, but I thought it really took a backseat to everything else going on and that was perfect. Such an engaging story filled with fabulous characters! I will be anxiously awaiting the other sisters stories as promised in the letter from the author.
This book in emojis. 👩👦👦 💷 ☕️ ☔️ 🐶
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This book was so fun. I loved Ari she was such a great character that I could not help but cheer for. I love how devoted she was to her boys and to her sisters. She was also so spunky, strong, and smart when it came to dealing with all the things she had to deal with involving her new life. The romance in this book was sweet, but I thought it really took a backseat to everything else going on and that was perfect. Such an engaging story filled with fabulous characters! I will be anxiously awaiting the other sisters stories as promised in the letter from the author.
This book in emojis. 👩👦👦 💷 ☕️ ☔️ 🐶
*** Big thank you to Hera Books for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
August 6, 2021
I absolutely LOVED the audiobook!! It was so much fun listening to this cute, cosy, a modern day fairy tale story of four sisters who have had to struggle financially all their lives after the untimely deaths of their parents... until they are told that they actually are titled heirs to a vast fortune and a number of estates from their mother's side of the family. This is book one in the series and tells Ariana's (the eldest of the four sisters) story. The narrator Martha Mackintosh has done a superb narration job and listening to her was a joy ride. I do hope that Saga Egmont Audio will produce audiobooks of the other books in the series as well... I really look forward to listening to them! Judging by this first book, I do believe the author Liz Hurley has written a cosy and fun series.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Saga Egmont Audio and the author Liz Hurley for the audio ARC of the book.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Saga Egmont Audio and the author Liz Hurley for the audio ARC of the book.
June 3, 2025
A New Life for Ariane Byrne #1 Hiverton Sisters
3✨
Listened to the audiobook.
3✨
Listened to the audiobook.
February 21, 2020
This book absolutely perked me up when life held me down.
Down on luck stick in a loveless marriage with 3 sisters and twin children as her responsibility, Ari had almost given up when Lady Luck shone on her. She soon found herself titled with money and a sprawling estate in a village at Norfolk.
My first book by author Liz Hurley, the book downright cheered me up. The author's writing had the beauty and warmth of the first sunshine in spring where everything felt new. I loved Ari, she was everything a main character ought to be. Her love for her kids and sisters was beautifully reflected off the words chosen in the prose.
Life was tough, but then it turned a 180 and made her a Lady with riches to boot. I liked how she dealt with the circumstances in her life life. I loved cheering her on through the good times and bad. She was strong and smart, beautiful and loving, everything I want to be. (sadly to say, I am quite wicked)
Delightful characters, engaging prose, heart warming emotions with humor and a tinge of romance made this one of my best reads.
Down on luck stick in a loveless marriage with 3 sisters and twin children as her responsibility, Ari had almost given up when Lady Luck shone on her. She soon found herself titled with money and a sprawling estate in a village at Norfolk.
My first book by author Liz Hurley, the book downright cheered me up. The author's writing had the beauty and warmth of the first sunshine in spring where everything felt new. I loved Ari, she was everything a main character ought to be. Her love for her kids and sisters was beautifully reflected off the words chosen in the prose.
Life was tough, but then it turned a 180 and made her a Lady with riches to boot. I liked how she dealt with the circumstances in her life life. I loved cheering her on through the good times and bad. She was strong and smart, beautiful and loving, everything I want to be. (sadly to say, I am quite wicked)
Delightful characters, engaging prose, heart warming emotions with humor and a tinge of romance made this one of my best reads.
February 3, 2020
This book was an absolute delight! A real feel-good, enjoyable read that I whizzed through I loved it so much.
Ariana is the eldest of five sisters, married with 4-year old twin boys, and (at the beginning) stuck in a loveless marriage and struggling to make ends meet. The girls parents died in a freak accident when Ari was 18 and she fought the authorities in order to be guardian to the family and keep the sisters together. Then her luck, and her sisters luck, changes.... she comes into money (lots of), a title and various properties, and gets rid of the waste of space husband and his vile family.
The rest of the story is settling into her new life in Norfolk - my favourite place - and getting to grips with all her new responsibilities, along with getting closer to one of her new neighbours, handsome Sir Seb.
I'm not sure what I expected when I started this book, having never read any Liz Hurley books before, but I absolutely loved it. Ari was such a fantastic character and you were really rooting for her throughout the book. If you're looking for a real feel-good, rags to riches read with some great characters this is for you. It reminded me a bit of a Milly Johnson book, another of my favourite authors. And there are five sisters in all, so I now can't wait to hear all their stories, as promised by the 'letter from Liz' at the end. Highly recommended, rush out and buy this book!
Ariana is the eldest of five sisters, married with 4-year old twin boys, and (at the beginning) stuck in a loveless marriage and struggling to make ends meet. The girls parents died in a freak accident when Ari was 18 and she fought the authorities in order to be guardian to the family and keep the sisters together. Then her luck, and her sisters luck, changes.... she comes into money (lots of), a title and various properties, and gets rid of the waste of space husband and his vile family.
The rest of the story is settling into her new life in Norfolk - my favourite place - and getting to grips with all her new responsibilities, along with getting closer to one of her new neighbours, handsome Sir Seb.
I'm not sure what I expected when I started this book, having never read any Liz Hurley books before, but I absolutely loved it. Ari was such a fantastic character and you were really rooting for her throughout the book. If you're looking for a real feel-good, rags to riches read with some great characters this is for you. It reminded me a bit of a Milly Johnson book, another of my favourite authors. And there are five sisters in all, so I now can't wait to hear all their stories, as promised by the 'letter from Liz' at the end. Highly recommended, rush out and buy this book!
June 23, 2021
When I picked this book I hadn't realised that it was book one of a series of which I had already read number two. Useless to say I was utterly delighted!
I loved this one even more than book 2, the story is engaging and the narrator is FANTASTIC!
Highly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this one even more than book 2, the story is engaging and the narrator is FANTASTIC!
Highly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2021
Thank you Netgalley for the audio copy. Ariana became guardian to her younger sisters when her parents died. They are struggling for money and she is also in a loveless marriage. Her life takes a massive turn when her husband accidently drowns on the way home from the pub. She then has a mystery meeting with the family lawyer and discovers she is a Countess. Ari moves to the country estate with her twin boys and slowly adjusts to country life with the help of dashing Sir Seb.
August 31, 2022
Brilliant book!! Loved it from start to finish. Great plot, characters etc. A modern day Cinderella story. The bad guys all get their just desserts and the good guys get a break for a change.
February 1, 2023
3.5 stars
Good and will read the sequels. I did get a bit irritated with the will they/won't they bits, but overall enjoyed.
Good and will read the sequels. I did get a bit irritated with the will they/won't they bits, but overall enjoyed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2020
Loved it.
Loved it. A real life Cinderella tale. I really can't wait to read the other sisters stories. What a find.
Loved it. A real life Cinderella tale. I really can't wait to read the other sisters stories. What a find.
February 18, 2023
Like a Princess Diaries for adults 🥰
June 25, 2021
Well, I didn't expect this book to bowl me over as much as it did. The narrator was spot on! The story took dips and dives along the rags to riches way and was no way a corny read. LOVED the characters and can't wait for the next story about the sisters. Strongly recommended if you like a good romance.
June 28, 2021
Well, this was ridiculous.
There's this girl who lives with her cheating bastard of a husband and she hates him to bits. The day after she decides to divorce him, he drunkenly falls in the canal and drowns. On the same day, she discovers that she's a countess and has inherited immense fortune from her estranged family who had banished her mother because she fell in love with a poor guy, and all that after struggling with money all her life.
Now, if I had a dollar for every time they had tea, I would be living in this crazy mansion!
For a person who is supposed to be so close to her family, we know very little of them. There is no chemistry between her and the prince charming. There is no explanation or proper development of her decision to not sell the lands.
This book was basically mooning over the house, picking dresses and sulking over repeated misunderstandings, all including one single unsuspecting character.
There is also one idiotic and unnecessary episode that led nowhere and I didn't see it's point at all. A lot of characters were just figures appearing and doing nothing, with no proper role, mentioned and introduced like they will be a big deal but who never have a single scene.
To me, this book seemed like a story written by an amateur hobbyist and I didn't like it at all.
To say nothing of the cheap cliches, especially the one with the mistletoe.
Granted, it is a quick and light read and I see how it can (and is) enjoyed by the right public, but it just wasn't my thing. At all.
A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
There's this girl who lives with her cheating bastard of a husband and she hates him to bits. The day after she decides to divorce him, he drunkenly falls in the canal and drowns. On the same day, she discovers that she's a countess and has inherited immense fortune from her estranged family who had banished her mother because she fell in love with a poor guy, and all that after struggling with money all her life.
Now, if I had a dollar for every time they had tea, I would be living in this crazy mansion!
For a person who is supposed to be so close to her family, we know very little of them. There is no chemistry between her and the prince charming. There is no explanation or proper development of her decision to not sell the lands.
This book was basically mooning over the house, picking dresses and sulking over repeated misunderstandings, all including one single unsuspecting character.
There is also one idiotic and unnecessary episode that led nowhere and I didn't see it's point at all. A lot of characters were just figures appearing and doing nothing, with no proper role, mentioned and introduced like they will be a big deal but who never have a single scene.
To me, this book seemed like a story written by an amateur hobbyist and I didn't like it at all.
To say nothing of the cheap cliches, especially the one with the mistletoe.
Granted, it is a quick and light read and I see how it can (and is) enjoyed by the right public, but it just wasn't my thing. At all.
A big thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2024
DNF - got to 46% before giving up.
This book sounded perfect for a cozy read, the eldest of a group of orphaned adult sisters learning that they have a secret inheritance and how it changes their lives for the better. Yet I struggled to keep reading and I realized halfway through the issue: telling, not showing. There are numerous conversations mentioned by the author between the sisters and Ari & her kids but there was rarely any dialogue. The author tells the reader about these conversations but never lets the reader experience them. It makes the relationships feel shallow and the other characters have little personality.
My other complaint is that there are other POV chapters but the POV characters spend the majority of their chapters mentally gushing about how poised, humble, and lovely Ari is. It's better than them complaining about her constantly but it's also boring. I could have swapped out the characters (a neighbour, a lawyer, and a love interest) and not known the difference.
This book sounded perfect for a cozy read, the eldest of a group of orphaned adult sisters learning that they have a secret inheritance and how it changes their lives for the better. Yet I struggled to keep reading and I realized halfway through the issue: telling, not showing. There are numerous conversations mentioned by the author between the sisters and Ari & her kids but there was rarely any dialogue. The author tells the reader about these conversations but never lets the reader experience them. It makes the relationships feel shallow and the other characters have little personality.
My other complaint is that there are other POV chapters but the POV characters spend the majority of their chapters mentally gushing about how poised, humble, and lovely Ari is. It's better than them complaining about her constantly but it's also boring. I could have swapped out the characters (a neighbour, a lawyer, and a love interest) and not known the difference.
June 28, 2021
I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Liz Hurley novel, but it was definitely a pleasant surprise.
Ariana has had a tough life, but she is a fighter. Having lost her parents tragically when she was 18, she fought to keep her younger siblings with her.
After finding herself unexpectedly pregnant, Ari, marries Greg, who quite quickly proves he is no knight in shining armour.
A letter from a solicitors office, turns Ari’s life upside down, and leads her onto a new path.
This is a real rags to riches story. Yes, it’s a bit of a cliche, but it’s written well, with warmth and a strong leading lady.
This book is fun, engaging and so much more than just a love story.
The audio version is beautifully narrated by Martha Mackintosh.
With thanks to #Netgalley and
@SagaEgmontAudio for an audio copy of this title, #ANewLifeForArianeByrne by #LizHurley.
Shared to, Goodreads, Amazon, instagram #blindiebookgirl and Facebook #TheFriendlyBookCommunity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ariana has had a tough life, but she is a fighter. Having lost her parents tragically when she was 18, she fought to keep her younger siblings with her.
After finding herself unexpectedly pregnant, Ari, marries Greg, who quite quickly proves he is no knight in shining armour.
A letter from a solicitors office, turns Ari’s life upside down, and leads her onto a new path.
This is a real rags to riches story. Yes, it’s a bit of a cliche, but it’s written well, with warmth and a strong leading lady.
This book is fun, engaging and so much more than just a love story.
The audio version is beautifully narrated by Martha Mackintosh.
With thanks to #Netgalley and
@SagaEgmontAudio for an audio copy of this title, #ANewLifeForArianeByrne by #LizHurley.
Shared to, Goodreads, Amazon, instagram #blindiebookgirl and Facebook #TheFriendlyBookCommunity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 2, 2024
I loved this book! An easy to follow rags-to-riches kind of book. The main character Ari had a lot to deal before things changed but she was a strong character that could talk to anyone in different situations (I wish I was like that!)
I will definitely be looking for the sequels.
I will definitely be looking for the sequels.
May 11, 2024
I actually loved this book. One for holiday and couldn't put it down. I really wanted to carry on reading about Ari's life going forward. Looking forward to reading the other stories with her sisters.
July 22, 2021
A lovely book about Ariana, a rag to riches story with some turmoil and romance all thrown into the mix! Loved it!
February 24, 2024
I enjoyed this book - an easy light read.
August 7, 2021
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4
Let’s start with the book, shall we? Escapism fiction that is laced with real-life issues that compel you to read on, even when the situations (and they do) get a bit outrageous, as they are always balanced with that underlying British humor, self-deprecation and out-and-out laughs. My first from the librarian turned author Hurley, her sense of the absurd that just, might, could possibly be real, and a true rags-to-riches scenario held interest and kept the humor flowing as it was peppered with actual situations (with family and kids) that everyone can relate to.
Ariana’s been the caregiver for her 4 siblings since the age of eighteen when her parents were killed and she was the option for her family. She did everything for them, and when she suddenly found herself pregnant with twins, and believing she’d found “true love” married her then boyfriend Greg and continued to carry on. But now, some years later and her boys and sisters having claimed most everything, she’s realized her husband isn’t quite ‘up’ to the job, and everything is a struggle, long after it should have settled. Now, with the unexpected news that she’s actually a countess with various holdings and a manor in the Norfolk countryside ….....
Oh this was so clever: from struggle to pay the bills and find space for yourself and your own thoughts, to rambling through a huge manor house, with plenty of land to roam and money to spare – there is a whole other level of “learning and struggle’ for Ariana. Manners, how things are done, and the appearance of a very engaging (and hyphenated) Sebastian, she’s got plenty to learn, and lots to absorb. Throughout the story, including standing up to her former husband and his parents, dealing with her sisters and even falling face-first into a situation she feels totally unprepared for, Ariana is compassionate and kind, and full of the sort of humor and awareness that her luck has changed so much for the better, she couldn’t even have conjured it up in her wildest dreams... if she had time for those back then, that is. From compelling characters, a lovely arc, plenty of humor and a romance that is beginning to take root, the story remained engaging and funny, sweet and light despite some of the very real conflicts and situations that were overcome. The perfect escapist listen for those days when nothing else will do, and you want to find a new character to become your best friend.
Narration for the story is provided by Martha Mackintosh, and she brought Ariana and her sisters to life, presenting the sort of ‘bemused confusion’ that I’m sure Ariana was meant to feel through most of her drastic life changes. Clear and clean presentation of the story combined with pauses, tone moderations and adjustment in voice and delivery for different characters, the listen provided that perfect kick your feet up and escape opportunity that gelled with the book and the story perfectly.
I received an AudioBook recording of the book from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Stars: Overall 4 Narration 4 Story 4
Let’s start with the book, shall we? Escapism fiction that is laced with real-life issues that compel you to read on, even when the situations (and they do) get a bit outrageous, as they are always balanced with that underlying British humor, self-deprecation and out-and-out laughs. My first from the librarian turned author Hurley, her sense of the absurd that just, might, could possibly be real, and a true rags-to-riches scenario held interest and kept the humor flowing as it was peppered with actual situations (with family and kids) that everyone can relate to.
Ariana’s been the caregiver for her 4 siblings since the age of eighteen when her parents were killed and she was the option for her family. She did everything for them, and when she suddenly found herself pregnant with twins, and believing she’d found “true love” married her then boyfriend Greg and continued to carry on. But now, some years later and her boys and sisters having claimed most everything, she’s realized her husband isn’t quite ‘up’ to the job, and everything is a struggle, long after it should have settled. Now, with the unexpected news that she’s actually a countess with various holdings and a manor in the Norfolk countryside ….....
Oh this was so clever: from struggle to pay the bills and find space for yourself and your own thoughts, to rambling through a huge manor house, with plenty of land to roam and money to spare – there is a whole other level of “learning and struggle’ for Ariana. Manners, how things are done, and the appearance of a very engaging (and hyphenated) Sebastian, she’s got plenty to learn, and lots to absorb. Throughout the story, including standing up to her former husband and his parents, dealing with her sisters and even falling face-first into a situation she feels totally unprepared for, Ariana is compassionate and kind, and full of the sort of humor and awareness that her luck has changed so much for the better, she couldn’t even have conjured it up in her wildest dreams... if she had time for those back then, that is. From compelling characters, a lovely arc, plenty of humor and a romance that is beginning to take root, the story remained engaging and funny, sweet and light despite some of the very real conflicts and situations that were overcome. The perfect escapist listen for those days when nothing else will do, and you want to find a new character to become your best friend.
Narration for the story is provided by Martha Mackintosh, and she brought Ariana and her sisters to life, presenting the sort of ‘bemused confusion’ that I’m sure Ariana was meant to feel through most of her drastic life changes. Clear and clean presentation of the story combined with pauses, tone moderations and adjustment in voice and delivery for different characters, the listen provided that perfect kick your feet up and escape opportunity that gelled with the book and the story perfectly.
I received an AudioBook recording of the book from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
June 27, 2021
Ariana Byrnes gets a new life, why can’t I? Wait. I don’t want one
Posted on June 27, 2021 by michellelovatosbookreviews, world's first book color commentator, book reviews with a twist
It’s a New Life For Ariana Byrnes, and I wouldn’t mind giving it a try for myself temporarily.
This summer fun read by Liz Hurley is a blast. I consumed my version of this book in large chunks through an audiobook. This fun story blasted in my ears as I sat under a fan, getting frustrated by my quilting mishaps in 110-degree heat.
Hurley must have known people like me needed this wonderful break from reality at a time when the problem in my lap was too much to bear. Besides, I adore English humor, English sensibility, and English manors – something Ariana Byrnes, living the life of an abused street rat wife in London’s worst suburbs, was experiencing. For Ariana and her four sisters, however, life is about to change; dramatically.
Before I begin, let’s introduce this author, whose biography says that she “became a professional librarian for the money and the glamour. Not finding quite enough of either, she set up a bookshop with her husband in Cornwall. She didn’t find much there either, so she started writing. Now she has loads of money and glamour but only in the pages of her books!”
Isn’t that amusing?! Maybe it’s just me and my 40-percent DNA that is from the UK. But I digress.
After the first few chapters, and we get rid of the horrible circumstances that stand in the way between Ariana and a bright future, we find this young mother of twin boys rambling around a “manor” as the new “Lady.”
Suddenly gifted with more money than she imagined, power out her sleeves, and a tremendous distrust of other people’s motives for knowing her, Ariana works hard to reverse the wrongs of relatives who walked the English countryside generations before she arrived.
Someday I want to see England, Ireland and a castle of some sort. After all these years of listening to Cinderella stories like this one, I want to smell the damp ground and touch the stone-cold walls – literally – of a castle and get a slight inkling of what it might be like to be rich and royal. Well, truthfully, I am already royal. I’m a child a God. But the rich part has alluded me.
Enjoy this royal romp away from reality for between eight hours and 23 minutes, and you will be happy you spent your time with your head, or ears, in a book.
This is the first book in the Hiverton Sisters collection. And since there are five sisters, it sounds like I’ll be entertained for a while. Bring it on. A New Life for Ariana Byrnes was narrated by Martha Mackintosh, and well done by the way, and produced by Saga Egmont Audio.
BoutiquePublishingService@hotmail.com
BoutiqueBooks@hotmail.com
Happy are those who respect the Lord and obey him. You will enjoy what you work for, and you will be blessed with good things. Psalm 128: 1-2
Posted on June 27, 2021 by michellelovatosbookreviews, world's first book color commentator, book reviews with a twist
It’s a New Life For Ariana Byrnes, and I wouldn’t mind giving it a try for myself temporarily.
This summer fun read by Liz Hurley is a blast. I consumed my version of this book in large chunks through an audiobook. This fun story blasted in my ears as I sat under a fan, getting frustrated by my quilting mishaps in 110-degree heat.
Hurley must have known people like me needed this wonderful break from reality at a time when the problem in my lap was too much to bear. Besides, I adore English humor, English sensibility, and English manors – something Ariana Byrnes, living the life of an abused street rat wife in London’s worst suburbs, was experiencing. For Ariana and her four sisters, however, life is about to change; dramatically.
Before I begin, let’s introduce this author, whose biography says that she “became a professional librarian for the money and the glamour. Not finding quite enough of either, she set up a bookshop with her husband in Cornwall. She didn’t find much there either, so she started writing. Now she has loads of money and glamour but only in the pages of her books!”
Isn’t that amusing?! Maybe it’s just me and my 40-percent DNA that is from the UK. But I digress.
After the first few chapters, and we get rid of the horrible circumstances that stand in the way between Ariana and a bright future, we find this young mother of twin boys rambling around a “manor” as the new “Lady.”
Suddenly gifted with more money than she imagined, power out her sleeves, and a tremendous distrust of other people’s motives for knowing her, Ariana works hard to reverse the wrongs of relatives who walked the English countryside generations before she arrived.
Someday I want to see England, Ireland and a castle of some sort. After all these years of listening to Cinderella stories like this one, I want to smell the damp ground and touch the stone-cold walls – literally – of a castle and get a slight inkling of what it might be like to be rich and royal. Well, truthfully, I am already royal. I’m a child a God. But the rich part has alluded me.
Enjoy this royal romp away from reality for between eight hours and 23 minutes, and you will be happy you spent your time with your head, or ears, in a book.
This is the first book in the Hiverton Sisters collection. And since there are five sisters, it sounds like I’ll be entertained for a while. Bring it on. A New Life for Ariana Byrnes was narrated by Martha Mackintosh, and well done by the way, and produced by Saga Egmont Audio.
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Happy are those who respect the Lord and obey him. You will enjoy what you work for, and you will be blessed with good things. Psalm 128: 1-2
July 12, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Liz Hurley, and Saga Egmont publishing for giving me a free audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 stars
What would you do if one day you found yourself the heir to properties and a title?
This book answers that question and more in this wonderful story of life, love, and family.
From the age of 18, Ariana Byrne has known what it means to survive. From raising her four sisters after the death of her parents to dealing with a cheating deadbeat of a husband and practically raising her twin boys by herself. So when Ariana is contacted by a solicitor, who informs her that as the eldest surviving child, she is now a countess and the holder of vast properties, she, along with her sisters begin to make plans with their new circumstances and some of those plans are Ariana leaving her husband once and for all. The story follows the new life Ariana and her twin boys make for themselves in their new holdings along with the family reputation her uncle has allowed to be tarnished over the years. As Ariana begins to meet the people within the village, she comes to find herself drawn to their country life, but that of her handsome neighbor, Sebastian Flint-Hyssop. I loved how strong Ariana was as well as compassionate despite all she and her sisters have had to overcome. She was so down-to-earth and even though, the sisters had not grown up with money, they did not let their new wealth change them. Ariana was also a very devoted mother and was willing to give her boys the best childhood she could without spoiling them. Her in-laws were the worst and I was glad she was able to tell them where to shove it! The romance between Ariana and Sebastian was very sweet and had one of the best meet cutes I had ever read. The ending wrapped up Ariana's and Sebastian's storylines well and laid a great set up for the other sisters to have their own stories in the future books. I would highly recommend this book if you are looking for a light-hearted contemporary story. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
5 stars
What would you do if one day you found yourself the heir to properties and a title?
This book answers that question and more in this wonderful story of life, love, and family.
From the age of 18, Ariana Byrne has known what it means to survive. From raising her four sisters after the death of her parents to dealing with a cheating deadbeat of a husband and practically raising her twin boys by herself. So when Ariana is contacted by a solicitor, who informs her that as the eldest surviving child, she is now a countess and the holder of vast properties, she, along with her sisters begin to make plans with their new circumstances and some of those plans are Ariana leaving her husband once and for all. The story follows the new life Ariana and her twin boys make for themselves in their new holdings along with the family reputation her uncle has allowed to be tarnished over the years. As Ariana begins to meet the people within the village, she comes to find herself drawn to their country life, but that of her handsome neighbor, Sebastian Flint-Hyssop. I loved how strong Ariana was as well as compassionate despite all she and her sisters have had to overcome. She was so down-to-earth and even though, the sisters had not grown up with money, they did not let their new wealth change them. Ariana was also a very devoted mother and was willing to give her boys the best childhood she could without spoiling them. Her in-laws were the worst and I was glad she was able to tell them where to shove it! The romance between Ariana and Sebastian was very sweet and had one of the best meet cutes I had ever read. The ending wrapped up Ariana's and Sebastian's storylines well and laid a great set up for the other sisters to have their own stories in the future books. I would highly recommend this book if you are looking for a light-hearted contemporary story. I can't wait for the next book in this series!
April 15, 2020
Ariana Byrne has had many tough times in her relatively short 28 years of life. Losing her parents at such a young age, and then fighting hard to keep her younger sisters together when the authorities thought it best to separate them. Giving up her own dreams in order to be the best sister she could be, then the best wife she could be to Greg, and the best mother she could be to her twin sons, Leo and William. After ten years of struggling without the support of her beloved parents, Ari unexpectedly finds herself a Countess, and wealthy at a time when she had struggled to put food on the table.
If you want a novel that knows how to draw you in then this is the novel for you. A lot happens in the first four chapters. A LOT. Sometimes you wonder how so much could happen to one person in such a short space of time, but you can't help but follow the story through to see how Ari deals with the cards she has been dealt. Ari is a character who has given up everything for those around her, and there isn't a more deserving character to receive the title and riches that she receives. Obviously they come with their own set of problems, (the most obvious being that she had family the whole time, but they just didn't care about her or her sisters) but watching her deal with them all is inspiring. This is not your standard chick-lit or romance novel - of course there is romance, but this novel is more about the strength of a woman when facing adversity. How she has spent her whole adult life fighting for what she believes to be right, regardless of the consequences for herself.
I loved this book. I loved the characters, I loved that there were so many strong female personalities, and I wanted to know how they would deal with the issues that were presented to them. The village setting was perfect, a real contrast to Ari's humble beginnings in the diverse London street she lived on. Everything about this novel was fab, and I am so pleased that Liz Hurley will be continuing the story of the Byrne sisters - I can't wait to read the next installment!
If you want a novel that knows how to draw you in then this is the novel for you. A lot happens in the first four chapters. A LOT. Sometimes you wonder how so much could happen to one person in such a short space of time, but you can't help but follow the story through to see how Ari deals with the cards she has been dealt. Ari is a character who has given up everything for those around her, and there isn't a more deserving character to receive the title and riches that she receives. Obviously they come with their own set of problems, (the most obvious being that she had family the whole time, but they just didn't care about her or her sisters) but watching her deal with them all is inspiring. This is not your standard chick-lit or romance novel - of course there is romance, but this novel is more about the strength of a woman when facing adversity. How she has spent her whole adult life fighting for what she believes to be right, regardless of the consequences for herself.
I loved this book. I loved the characters, I loved that there were so many strong female personalities, and I wanted to know how they would deal with the issues that were presented to them. The village setting was perfect, a real contrast to Ari's humble beginnings in the diverse London street she lived on. Everything about this novel was fab, and I am so pleased that Liz Hurley will be continuing the story of the Byrne sisters - I can't wait to read the next installment!
November 14, 2021
Ari has brought her four sisters up since their parents death when she was 18. She gets a letter from an unknown solicitor advising her of a meeting she needs to attend. On attending it she finds out that she has inherited a huge estate and the title Countess Hiverton in her own right. However on her return home the police are on her doorstep. Will Ari be able to start a new life in Norfolk?
This is book 1.5. I have read all the other books. Due to reading books two to four first. I was going to read 0.5 and leave one. Feeling that I would know the outcomes due to the other books. However in the back of Dear Diary (book 0.5) there was two chapters of this book. Which sucked me straight in all over again
I have also found out this is a part of a series and in one of the other bookd the author has made note this can be read as a stand alone book or in any order. I do feel it can be read as a stand alone but I feel it couldn't be read out of order without becoming confusing in parts.
Although this book is a romcom. Their are some emotional subjects included such as drowning, domestic abuse, car accidents, eviction and death amongst many more. However this does not take away from the feel of the book. It adds many twists and turns to the story and allows for character growth, story expansion and redemption.
Although I read this book last it still held my attention, particularly in the first quarter and last half, adding to my knowledge of the estate. As well as answering some of the questions and areas that had confused me in the other books.
This story leads up to a beautiful and warm Christmas together as a family. Unfortunately this isn't explored in any of the subsequent books either. Which skips a timeline in the story which I feel would have added more to the family dynamics with Seb. Preventing this being the last we hear of him until the wedding.
This is book 1.5. I have read all the other books. Due to reading books two to four first. I was going to read 0.5 and leave one. Feeling that I would know the outcomes due to the other books. However in the back of Dear Diary (book 0.5) there was two chapters of this book. Which sucked me straight in all over again
I have also found out this is a part of a series and in one of the other bookd the author has made note this can be read as a stand alone book or in any order. I do feel it can be read as a stand alone but I feel it couldn't be read out of order without becoming confusing in parts.
Although this book is a romcom. Their are some emotional subjects included such as drowning, domestic abuse, car accidents, eviction and death amongst many more. However this does not take away from the feel of the book. It adds many twists and turns to the story and allows for character growth, story expansion and redemption.
Although I read this book last it still held my attention, particularly in the first quarter and last half, adding to my knowledge of the estate. As well as answering some of the questions and areas that had confused me in the other books.
This story leads up to a beautiful and warm Christmas together as a family. Unfortunately this isn't explored in any of the subsequent books either. Which skips a timeline in the story which I feel would have added more to the family dynamics with Seb. Preventing this being the last we hear of him until the wedding.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2021
When I first started listening to this book, I was afraid I would not like it. The rating that I finally gave it is reflective of how rarely such a visceral first reaction changes.
In the first chapter, we see our protagonist, Ariana, having a fight with her husband. It is not exactly a fight because Ariana does not do any protesting. As background, we get information about the kind of man he is and how his wife has accepted him back multiple times after very obvious transgressions. This last part was so astounding given the kind of woman she is supposed to be and the things she stood for in the past.
That is just the first chapter, though. Once he slams the door on the way out and minor retrospection on Ariana's part, things start to change. I liked the siblings' relationship and the new growth arc for the family as a whole. Despite there being so many sisters, each stood out as an individual, and I did not need to keep going back to see which sister was speaking. I could make an informed guess (if required) based on their behaviour. The leading lady changes with time, and her confidence building happens slowly but surely.
The romance angle was also understated. It takes up a big chunk of the ending, and even though the misunderstandings happen once too often, the emotional state of Ariana's heart and mind makes a good enough excuse to let it pass.
I had fun encountering this family and doubly fun on audio. I listened to it while cycling around some chores, and there were moments where I chuckled out loud on the street. The characters and their conversations are what endeared me to this book. If given a chance, I would pursue this series. I also recommend it to fans of the genre or someone thinking of picking up a reasonably light book with some intermittent heavier parts.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
In the first chapter, we see our protagonist, Ariana, having a fight with her husband. It is not exactly a fight because Ariana does not do any protesting. As background, we get information about the kind of man he is and how his wife has accepted him back multiple times after very obvious transgressions. This last part was so astounding given the kind of woman she is supposed to be and the things she stood for in the past.
That is just the first chapter, though. Once he slams the door on the way out and minor retrospection on Ariana's part, things start to change. I liked the siblings' relationship and the new growth arc for the family as a whole. Despite there being so many sisters, each stood out as an individual, and I did not need to keep going back to see which sister was speaking. I could make an informed guess (if required) based on their behaviour. The leading lady changes with time, and her confidence building happens slowly but surely.
The romance angle was also understated. It takes up a big chunk of the ending, and even though the misunderstandings happen once too often, the emotional state of Ariana's heart and mind makes a good enough excuse to let it pass.
I had fun encountering this family and doubly fun on audio. I listened to it while cycling around some chores, and there were moments where I chuckled out loud on the street. The characters and their conversations are what endeared me to this book. If given a chance, I would pursue this series. I also recommend it to fans of the genre or someone thinking of picking up a reasonably light book with some intermittent heavier parts.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
July 27, 2023
This is the first book I've read by this author ( # 14 of 23 for 23 ) and I enjoyed it immensely, it's yet another of those series of books that I've been meaning to get around to reading for quite a while.
At the age of eighteen, Ariana Byrne, becomes the guardian of her four younger sisters, after the untimely deaths of her parents.
Now in her twenties, Ari is in a loveless marriage to Greg, and mother to four year old twin sons, Leo and William, trying to make ends meet is virtually impossible.
When Ari's parents first met, her Mother's own parents disowned their daughter, so the girls have literally no idea about that side of their family, so when Ari discovers she is actually, The Right Honourable Lady de Foix Countess of Hiverton, owner of a sprawling estate in Norfolk, her first reaction is laughter, she and her sisters are now rich beyond their wildest dreams.
Taking care of her sisters and young sons, is something Ari knows how to do, but taking care of an entire village, well that's something completely different.
With the added threat of land developers circling round, and her truly horrible in-laws, who are after all the money for themselves since son Greg died due to mis-adventure, it certainly isn't going to be easy for Ari to adjust, and mistakes are inevitable.
But trusting handsome neighbour, Sebastian Flint-Hyssop, could turn out to be the biggest mistake of them all.
Throughout all the conflict, there is quite a bit of humour injected into the story, and I am very much looking forward to reading the next instalment very soon.
At the age of eighteen, Ariana Byrne, becomes the guardian of her four younger sisters, after the untimely deaths of her parents.
Now in her twenties, Ari is in a loveless marriage to Greg, and mother to four year old twin sons, Leo and William, trying to make ends meet is virtually impossible.
When Ari's parents first met, her Mother's own parents disowned their daughter, so the girls have literally no idea about that side of their family, so when Ari discovers she is actually, The Right Honourable Lady de Foix Countess of Hiverton, owner of a sprawling estate in Norfolk, her first reaction is laughter, she and her sisters are now rich beyond their wildest dreams.
Taking care of her sisters and young sons, is something Ari knows how to do, but taking care of an entire village, well that's something completely different.
With the added threat of land developers circling round, and her truly horrible in-laws, who are after all the money for themselves since son Greg died due to mis-adventure, it certainly isn't going to be easy for Ari to adjust, and mistakes are inevitable.
But trusting handsome neighbour, Sebastian Flint-Hyssop, could turn out to be the biggest mistake of them all.
Throughout all the conflict, there is quite a bit of humour injected into the story, and I am very much looking forward to reading the next instalment very soon.
February 3, 2020
I enjoyed reading ' A New Life for Ariana Byrne' and found it to be an uplifting book. It starts untraditionally insofar that the heroine, Ari, discovers she is heiress to a number of properties, land and the title of Countess, on the same day that one of the villains of the novel is found dead. Typically this would be your average 'happy ending' but instead it is just the beginning.
The reader accompanies Ari on the journey through her new life and follows the challenges she faces as well as the new people she meets, some of whom don't have her best interests at heart. The character of Ari is gradually revealed to the reader through her interactions with others as well as her inner thoughts and what others say about her. She is likeable and it is easy to warm to her; once we are made aware of how she has faced adversity in the past, it is clear that she will be able to cope with the demands of her new role.
Although the book is, in my opinion a 'feel-good' novel, it doesn't shy away from real life issues, such as family dynamics and difficult marriage. The characters are well-observed and the story embraces diversity. I would like to have seen Ari's sisters fleshed out a bit more and as I was reading, I thought there would be scope for a sequel involving one or more of them. Once I'd finished the book and read 'A Letter from Liz' at the end, she hints that this will be a possibility.
Thank-you to Hera and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The reader accompanies Ari on the journey through her new life and follows the challenges she faces as well as the new people she meets, some of whom don't have her best interests at heart. The character of Ari is gradually revealed to the reader through her interactions with others as well as her inner thoughts and what others say about her. She is likeable and it is easy to warm to her; once we are made aware of how she has faced adversity in the past, it is clear that she will be able to cope with the demands of her new role.
Although the book is, in my opinion a 'feel-good' novel, it doesn't shy away from real life issues, such as family dynamics and difficult marriage. The characters are well-observed and the story embraces diversity. I would like to have seen Ari's sisters fleshed out a bit more and as I was reading, I thought there would be scope for a sequel involving one or more of them. Once I'd finished the book and read 'A Letter from Liz' at the end, she hints that this will be a possibility.
Thank-you to Hera and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
October 9, 2021
After Ariana’s parents died when she was 18, she fought to become legal guardian for her four younger sisters. Now in her twenties, she is stuck in a loveless marriage and raising her young twin boys. When Ariana learns that she is now the Right Honourable Lady Foix, Countess of Hiverton, she can’t believe it. Ariana and her sisters knew that their mom was disowned by her family for marrying their father, but they had no idea that their mom came from nobility. Ariana has plenty of experience caring for her sister and sons but taking care of a whole town is another matter entirely! Her handsome neighbor Sebastian Flint-Hyssop is there to help her settle in, but can she trust him?
This was a feel-good book that set up a wonderful beginning of a series for all five sisters. I loved all the characters we got to know, other than Ariana’s husband and his parents, who you are not expected to like anyway. It definitely makes me want to check out the other books in the series as they come available! My main complaint would be that the climax of the story was a little over the top and predictable. There is romance in the book, but it focuses more on Ariana learning about her town, its people, and their needs, as well as continuing to care for her family. I recommend this sweet story for those looking for a bit of an escapism.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
This was a feel-good book that set up a wonderful beginning of a series for all five sisters. I loved all the characters we got to know, other than Ariana’s husband and his parents, who you are not expected to like anyway. It definitely makes me want to check out the other books in the series as they come available! My main complaint would be that the climax of the story was a little over the top and predictable. There is romance in the book, but it focuses more on Ariana learning about her town, its people, and their needs, as well as continuing to care for her family. I recommend this sweet story for those looking for a bit of an escapism.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me an audio ARC of this book.
June 28, 2021
This book started out well. It is somewhat of a Cinderella story. A 20-something woman, who has struggled to support her siblings after the death of their parents and was married to an abusive man, inherits an aristocratic title from an unknown relative. Having known poverty herself, she is especially compassionate.
Ariana's experience of adjustment is interesting and relatable. Then the book loses its way. It seems to get lost between issues related to her property, decisions the former earl (her uncle) had made, a new love interest, her former in-laws, etc. By the way, her abusive husband died before he could sue her for any part of the earldom. Not even sure how he died. It just seemed a matter of convenience for the story. It would have been a much different book had he not died. She would have had different issues to deal with. The in-laws also conveniently screwed themselves in writing before Ariana inherited. Again, it would have been a much different book had this convenience not occurred.
Fairly predictable, but not unenjoyable.
This book is part of a series. I have read none of the other installments, but I would consider reading them. The author's writing style is light and pleasant.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this audiobook.
Ariana's experience of adjustment is interesting and relatable. Then the book loses its way. It seems to get lost between issues related to her property, decisions the former earl (her uncle) had made, a new love interest, her former in-laws, etc. By the way, her abusive husband died before he could sue her for any part of the earldom. Not even sure how he died. It just seemed a matter of convenience for the story. It would have been a much different book had he not died. She would have had different issues to deal with. The in-laws also conveniently screwed themselves in writing before Ariana inherited. Again, it would have been a much different book had this convenience not occurred.
Fairly predictable, but not unenjoyable.
This book is part of a series. I have read none of the other installments, but I would consider reading them. The author's writing style is light and pleasant.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this audiobook.
February 13, 2020
Ariana is the type of character you instantly warm to. After a few pages, you're invested in her life and want her to get out of her claustrophobic relationship and have the life she deserves. All your wishes come true, not in the most realistic of ways, but this is escapist fiction, and so you can forgive the number of coincidences and beneficial serendipity.
Ariana has four sisters, all of whom, have their own stories, as the series progresses, but this is the beginning and Ariana's tale. After a life full of misfortune and events that demanded exceptional courage and tenacity, Ariana's fortunes improve, she receives an unexpected bequest and the chance of a new life.
There is lots of humour, plenty of conflicts, and lots of new people to meet, as Ariana learns how to be a landowner. The romance is gentle, and any hopes of a quiet life disappear as part of her estate is threatened by developers.
Engaging, vibrant characters, a vividly described lifestyle and setting make this rags to riches romantic comedy the perfect escape for a Winter's afternoon.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Ariana has four sisters, all of whom, have their own stories, as the series progresses, but this is the beginning and Ariana's tale. After a life full of misfortune and events that demanded exceptional courage and tenacity, Ariana's fortunes improve, she receives an unexpected bequest and the chance of a new life.
There is lots of humour, plenty of conflicts, and lots of new people to meet, as Ariana learns how to be a landowner. The romance is gentle, and any hopes of a quiet life disappear as part of her estate is threatened by developers.
Engaging, vibrant characters, a vividly described lifestyle and setting make this rags to riches romantic comedy the perfect escape for a Winter's afternoon.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
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