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Big Little Secrets
A complex and fast-paced atmospheric thriller—a terrifying journey through a maze of secrets and locations, leading to a jaw-dropping culmination of unexpected events.
“I now know that my wife has dark secrets, and I must discover how a horrific accident twenty years ago is connected to my wife’s disappearance … before it’s too late.”
Nelli Horvath is a Hungarian immigrant, seemingly living the American dream with her husband, Clint, and their son, Ryan, in Las Vegas. After receiving an invitation to her 20th high school reunion, Nelli flies back to her home country for the first time after nearly two decades, and that’s the last time her American family sees her.
Determined to find his missing wife, Clint travels to Hungary for the first time, where he races against the clock, chasing clues through historical towns and dangerous places to investigate the whereabouts of his missing wife.
Caught in a web of old secrets and murderous lies, Clint realizes how little he truly knows his wife, leaving him to wonder if he really knows her at all.
“I now know that my wife has dark secrets, and I must discover how a horrific accident twenty years ago is connected to my wife’s disappearance … before it’s too late.”
Nelli Horvath is a Hungarian immigrant, seemingly living the American dream with her husband, Clint, and their son, Ryan, in Las Vegas. After receiving an invitation to her 20th high school reunion, Nelli flies back to her home country for the first time after nearly two decades, and that’s the last time her American family sees her.
Determined to find his missing wife, Clint travels to Hungary for the first time, where he races against the clock, chasing clues through historical towns and dangerous places to investigate the whereabouts of his missing wife.
Caught in a web of old secrets and murderous lies, Clint realizes how little he truly knows his wife, leaving him to wonder if he really knows her at all.
349 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2022
86 people are currently reading
3886 people want to read
About the author
A.B. Whelan
22 books733 followersNew release: Easy Prey is a a razor-sharp psychological thriller inspired by real-life con artists and emotional predators. Easy Prey will leave you breathless and questioning everything. Releasing on July 17, 2025.
Whelan is an Amazon bestselling author of domestic psychological thrillers.
She currently resides in California with her husband and two children. When she isn't writing, editing, marketing, or researching her next book, you can find her walking her two rescue dogs, socializing online, coaching soccer, or doing another DIY project with her husband.
Find me on:
* Facebook (AuthorABWhelan)
* Instagram (authorabwhelan)
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Whelan is an Amazon bestselling author of domestic psychological thrillers.
She currently resides in California with her husband and two children. When she isn't writing, editing, marketing, or researching her next book, you can find her walking her two rescue dogs, socializing online, coaching soccer, or doing another DIY project with her husband.
Find me on:
* Facebook (AuthorABWhelan)
* Instagram (authorabwhelan)
* Goodreads (A.B. Whelan)
* Twitter (AuthorABWhelan)
* Bookbub: A.B. Whelan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
May 14, 2022
Big Little Secrets? More like, Big Little Headaches.
Am so glad it's over. It was so hard to read, I had to force myself and not going to lie, I skimmed past most of the things.
Written in dual POV- Nelli and Clint's, I thought the narratives would be interesting. False. Boring. Dull. Sucks the life out of the reader.
The starting 40% of the book is repetitive. Clint wondering why her wife is secretive, what secrets does she keep, if she's happy and Nelli going on and on about her need to go back to Hungary and finally face her past. It's the same inner monologues on repeat. Also, it's EXCESSIVE INFO DUMPING didn't sit well with me. I would have preferred if the author had taken some time to show that Nelli and Clint's relationship more.
I did like some twists and turns but the ending was not something I enjoyed. By the time I reached the end, I really didn't care what happened to Nelli and Clint. The supporting characters lack depth and fall flat.
I did want to enjoy this book, but simply couldn't.
eARC provided by Booksirens for an honest review.
Am so glad it's over. It was so hard to read, I had to force myself and not going to lie, I skimmed past most of the things.
Written in dual POV- Nelli and Clint's, I thought the narratives would be interesting. False. Boring. Dull. Sucks the life out of the reader.
The starting 40% of the book is repetitive. Clint wondering why her wife is secretive, what secrets does she keep, if she's happy and Nelli going on and on about her need to go back to Hungary and finally face her past. It's the same inner monologues on repeat. Also, it's EXCESSIVE INFO DUMPING didn't sit well with me. I would have preferred if the author had taken some time to show that Nelli and Clint's relationship more.
I did like some twists and turns but the ending was not something I enjoyed. By the time I reached the end, I really didn't care what happened to Nelli and Clint. The supporting characters lack depth and fall flat.
I did want to enjoy this book, but simply couldn't.
eARC provided by Booksirens for an honest review.
April 6, 2022
BIG LITTLE SECRETS is a domestic psychological thriller by A.B. Whelan.
As a teenager Nelli had made a stupid mistake and got away with it, along with the rest of the group. Now the past has buried all these memories. But there will always be this secret between them. No one can ever talk.
Nelli Horvath is a Hungarian immigrant, and her husband Clint and nine-year old son, Ryan have moved from Colorado to Las Vegas after Clint accepted a new position in the service industry networking with wealthy clients. Clint had worked as a restaurant manager in Colorado while his wife worked at the local library. Nelli doesn’t like living in Las Vegas, and feels this lifestyle is not suitable for raising a child.
Just when Clint is heading out the door for a flight, Nelli tells him she is flying with her son to Budapest that day, for a high school reunion after receiving an invitation, and that is the last time her family sees her.
But three days later, Clint is unable to reach Nelli, and she hasn’t returned his call. He was really worried and couldn’t concentrate on work.
Determined to find his missing wife, Clint travels to Hungary for the first time, where he races against time chasing clues to find his missing wife.
“I now know that my wife has dark secrets, and I must discover how a horrific accident twenty years ago is connected to my wife’s disappearance … before it’s too late.”
Clint soon realizes how little he knows about his wife. So many secrets and lies!
Big little Secrets is a fast-paced thriller about a group of teenagers whose lives have been destroyed because of a secret. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to AB Whelan for the gifted digital copy.
As a teenager Nelli had made a stupid mistake and got away with it, along with the rest of the group. Now the past has buried all these memories. But there will always be this secret between them. No one can ever talk.
Nelli Horvath is a Hungarian immigrant, and her husband Clint and nine-year old son, Ryan have moved from Colorado to Las Vegas after Clint accepted a new position in the service industry networking with wealthy clients. Clint had worked as a restaurant manager in Colorado while his wife worked at the local library. Nelli doesn’t like living in Las Vegas, and feels this lifestyle is not suitable for raising a child.
Just when Clint is heading out the door for a flight, Nelli tells him she is flying with her son to Budapest that day, for a high school reunion after receiving an invitation, and that is the last time her family sees her.
But three days later, Clint is unable to reach Nelli, and she hasn’t returned his call. He was really worried and couldn’t concentrate on work.
Determined to find his missing wife, Clint travels to Hungary for the first time, where he races against time chasing clues to find his missing wife.
“I now know that my wife has dark secrets, and I must discover how a horrific accident twenty years ago is connected to my wife’s disappearance … before it’s too late.”
Clint soon realizes how little he knows about his wife. So many secrets and lies!
Big little Secrets is a fast-paced thriller about a group of teenagers whose lives have been destroyed because of a secret. Highly recommended!
Many thanks to AB Whelan for the gifted digital copy.
May 27, 2022
Nelli lives her life shrouded with guilt and regret. She is always running from her past and the secrets she longs to leave behind. Her past collides with the present, sparing no victims in its wake. Will the truth set her free, or will secrets destroy her fragile existence? This atmospheric, international thriller is a twisty ride in an unfamiliar world of deception and betrayal. The story is entertaining, compelling, and at times unsettling. Thank you BookSirens for my copy.
May 7, 2022
Not really sure what to feel about this book. It was OK, I guess.
For the first time after nearly two decades, Nellie Horvath flew back to her home country in Hungary for a high school reunion. A week later, she went missing. Her american husband Clint decided to follow and investigate the whereabouts of his missing wife.
Although this book was dragging and repetitive at times, I liked the mystery sorrounding Nellie’s disappearance. I couldn’t really figure out who was guilty or not even though the author deliberately planted doubts in every character’s actions. The incident that happened years ago during Nellie and her friends Austrian trip was the key plot that drives the story to a rather unimpressive momentum. I didn’t like the ending and how shallow and pedestrian the twists were.
To be fair, I was shocked by a certain event in the book which I think would surprise most of the readers.
Thanks again to Netgalley and Burbank Books for the ARC!
For the first time after nearly two decades, Nellie Horvath flew back to her home country in Hungary for a high school reunion. A week later, she went missing. Her american husband Clint decided to follow and investigate the whereabouts of his missing wife.
Although this book was dragging and repetitive at times, I liked the mystery sorrounding Nellie’s disappearance. I couldn’t really figure out who was guilty or not even though the author deliberately planted doubts in every character’s actions. The incident that happened years ago during Nellie and her friends Austrian trip was the key plot that drives the story to a rather unimpressive momentum. I didn’t like the ending and how shallow and pedestrian the twists were.
To be fair, I was shocked by a certain event in the book which I think would surprise most of the readers.
Thanks again to Netgalley and Burbank Books for the ARC!
May 25, 2022
I requested this book because I have enjoyed a number of the author’s previous books and this one was partly set in Hungary where I have some family connections.
Nelli Barnes (née Horvath) fled to America after finishing her education to distance herself from the secret that was slowly eating her up. It was there, in New York, that she was literally saved (from being struck down by a posse of racing cyclists) by her husband to be, Clint Barnes. Romance blossomed and Nelli dared to believe that she could put the past behind her and find happiness. The pair are soon married and a couple of years later their son, Ryan, is born. Life is good. Clint makes a comfortable living managing a cafe/restaurant in Telluride, Colorado and Nelli eventually starts working part time in the local library.
But Clint can sense that sometimes Nelli is miles away and she doesn’t talk much about her past. Clint has been snatched up by enthusiastic entrepreneur, Don, who promises him a glitzy lifestyle and drags the family off to Las Vegas. Nelli hates it there. But that is soon eclipsed as her past comes roaring back to bite her on the behind. First, Ryan disappears for hours during a rare family outing at a theme park. He returns eventually, unharmed, but Nelli recognises the woman who took him as the mother of Eva - the girl who disappeared during a school trip to Vienna. The group of eight friends snuck out of their hostel and painted the town red, only sneaking back in just before dawn. When heads were counted in the morning Eva was missing. The seven remaining friends vowed to keep their silence as admitting what they had done would ruin future career prospects. In any case, they didn’t actually know what had happened to Eva, but Nelli imagined every possible horrible scenario.
Later Nelli gets a letter, as do the other conspirators, claiming that “I know what you did”. She decides, this time, to attend her high school reunion in Hungary and meet with Eva’s mother and tell her the truth. She dumps this news suddenly on Clint, she will take Ryan and Clint cannot dissuade her.
After a few days, Clint is frantic as he is not able to contact Nelli and doesn’t know the details of her parents address or phone number (quite an oversight there mate). In desperation he talks his wayward brother into accompanying him and they head off into the unknown in Hungary. And that is where I must leave it, although an awful lot happens but that would be telling!
Ms Whelan, you wrote a blinder, but why did you have to make it so sad? I was nearly in tears. It was such a tragic set of circumstances. Clint’s desperation to find his wife jumped off the page. All the bad stuff that happened was just tragic accidents and there was no evil plot. Whelan is a very versatile writer. This book is quite different from her previous works and shows people at their most vulnerable with great empathy. I really enjoyed it. Many thanks to BookSirens for providing me a free copy which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
Nelli Barnes (née Horvath) fled to America after finishing her education to distance herself from the secret that was slowly eating her up. It was there, in New York, that she was literally saved (from being struck down by a posse of racing cyclists) by her husband to be, Clint Barnes. Romance blossomed and Nelli dared to believe that she could put the past behind her and find happiness. The pair are soon married and a couple of years later their son, Ryan, is born. Life is good. Clint makes a comfortable living managing a cafe/restaurant in Telluride, Colorado and Nelli eventually starts working part time in the local library.
But Clint can sense that sometimes Nelli is miles away and she doesn’t talk much about her past. Clint has been snatched up by enthusiastic entrepreneur, Don, who promises him a glitzy lifestyle and drags the family off to Las Vegas. Nelli hates it there. But that is soon eclipsed as her past comes roaring back to bite her on the behind. First, Ryan disappears for hours during a rare family outing at a theme park. He returns eventually, unharmed, but Nelli recognises the woman who took him as the mother of Eva - the girl who disappeared during a school trip to Vienna. The group of eight friends snuck out of their hostel and painted the town red, only sneaking back in just before dawn. When heads were counted in the morning Eva was missing. The seven remaining friends vowed to keep their silence as admitting what they had done would ruin future career prospects. In any case, they didn’t actually know what had happened to Eva, but Nelli imagined every possible horrible scenario.
Later Nelli gets a letter, as do the other conspirators, claiming that “I know what you did”. She decides, this time, to attend her high school reunion in Hungary and meet with Eva’s mother and tell her the truth. She dumps this news suddenly on Clint, she will take Ryan and Clint cannot dissuade her.
After a few days, Clint is frantic as he is not able to contact Nelli and doesn’t know the details of her parents address or phone number (quite an oversight there mate). In desperation he talks his wayward brother into accompanying him and they head off into the unknown in Hungary. And that is where I must leave it, although an awful lot happens but that would be telling!
Ms Whelan, you wrote a blinder, but why did you have to make it so sad? I was nearly in tears. It was such a tragic set of circumstances. Clint’s desperation to find his wife jumped off the page. All the bad stuff that happened was just tragic accidents and there was no evil plot. Whelan is a very versatile writer. This book is quite different from her previous works and shows people at their most vulnerable with great empathy. I really enjoyed it. Many thanks to BookSirens for providing me a free copy which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
April 25, 2022
Another page turner from AB Whelan. Big Little Secrets had so many twists that you just had to keep reading. I started it late in the afternoon and stayed up until I finished it at night.
The setting for most of this book was Hungary. I think this may be the first book that I have read set here. So much detail on the history of the country and the places in the town where Nelli was from. It was interesting.
Nelli has been living in America with her husband Clint and son Ryan for many years. She has always been secretive about her past and listening in Hungary. So when she suddenly announces that she is taking Ryan there for a school reunion, Clint is surprised and unsettled. His feelings aren’t settled when he can’t get hold of her. With no other options, he takes his brother with him to find his wife. In a country where he hardly knows anybody and doesn’t speak the language, he soon discovers that she hasn’t been seen for days. As a teenager, Nelli and her friends made an awful mistake and someone wants revenge.
A big thank you to the author for my advanced copy of her book to read. Released April 26th, this is one not to be missed. Also available on Kindle Unlimited.
The setting for most of this book was Hungary. I think this may be the first book that I have read set here. So much detail on the history of the country and the places in the town where Nelli was from. It was interesting.
Nelli has been living in America with her husband Clint and son Ryan for many years. She has always been secretive about her past and listening in Hungary. So when she suddenly announces that she is taking Ryan there for a school reunion, Clint is surprised and unsettled. His feelings aren’t settled when he can’t get hold of her. With no other options, he takes his brother with him to find his wife. In a country where he hardly knows anybody and doesn’t speak the language, he soon discovers that she hasn’t been seen for days. As a teenager, Nelli and her friends made an awful mistake and someone wants revenge.
A big thank you to the author for my advanced copy of her book to read. Released April 26th, this is one not to be missed. Also available on Kindle Unlimited.
June 2, 2022
I have just read Big Little Secrets by Author A.B. Whelan
This is a thriller that takes place in Hungary and the US. The main character Nelli Horvath who was born in Hungary and is now married to an American, and they have a young son together and are living in Las Vegas.
Nelli gets an invitation for her 20th high school reunion, and then suddenly tells her husband one day that she has a flight to catch, and she and their son Ryan will be leaving in hours to go to Hungary for the reunion.
This is the first that her husband Clint has heard about the reunion.
This is also the last time Clint will see Nelli.
A pretty good book in my opinion, however a bit slow at times, and a little unbelievable as well at times.
Thank you to NetGalley, the Author and Xpresso Book Tours for my advanced copy to read and review.
#BigLittleSecrets #NetGalley
This is a thriller that takes place in Hungary and the US. The main character Nelli Horvath who was born in Hungary and is now married to an American, and they have a young son together and are living in Las Vegas.
Nelli gets an invitation for her 20th high school reunion, and then suddenly tells her husband one day that she has a flight to catch, and she and their son Ryan will be leaving in hours to go to Hungary for the reunion.
This is the first that her husband Clint has heard about the reunion.
This is also the last time Clint will see Nelli.
A pretty good book in my opinion, however a bit slow at times, and a little unbelievable as well at times.
Thank you to NetGalley, the Author and Xpresso Book Tours for my advanced copy to read and review.
#BigLittleSecrets #NetGalley
July 26, 2022
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for a free, electronic copy of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
When Nelli Horvath met her husband, Clint, and moved to America, she expected to leave her life, and all of its secrets, behind in Hungary. But twenty years later, Nelli and Clint are living in Las Vegas with their son, Ryan, when Nelli starts to receive threatening messages, putting her life, and her child’s life, in jeopardy. When Nelli gets an invitation to a high school reunion, she sees this as an oppourtunity to return home to Hungary, and put an end once and for all to the secrets she left behind. Clint begins to worry when Nelli doesn’t contact him after her arrival, or for days afterward, but as he tries to investigate her disappearance, the information he uncovers makes him question how well he really knew his wife.
A.B. Whelan’s “Big Little Secrets” has a storyline that has been done before by many other authors of this genre but what makes Whelan’s book slightly more creative is the fact that most of the novel takes place in Hungary. As Clint travels to the foreign nation, the reader experiences Hungary through his eyes, and is able to fully grasp the rarely explored, ex-Soviet-ruled country as a newcomer would. I always enjoy being able to experience new places through reading, and Hungary was a new one for me.
Clint and Nelli are decent characters, a seemingly innocuous married couple, living an opulent life in Las Vegas and raising their young son. They are easy to relate to and easy to connect with, and I wanted to keep reading through to the end, hopeful for a happy ending.
Although there are some parts of the novel that read slow, especially as various parts of the Hungarian landscape and lifestyle are explained, overall the plot was suspenseful and gripping. “Big Little Secrets” takes an overdone plot, brings it to life with a unique setting, and provides a heartbreaking but complete ending. This is my first novel by Whelan, and I’m intrigued to find out where her other novels will take me.
When Nelli Horvath met her husband, Clint, and moved to America, she expected to leave her life, and all of its secrets, behind in Hungary. But twenty years later, Nelli and Clint are living in Las Vegas with their son, Ryan, when Nelli starts to receive threatening messages, putting her life, and her child’s life, in jeopardy. When Nelli gets an invitation to a high school reunion, she sees this as an oppourtunity to return home to Hungary, and put an end once and for all to the secrets she left behind. Clint begins to worry when Nelli doesn’t contact him after her arrival, or for days afterward, but as he tries to investigate her disappearance, the information he uncovers makes him question how well he really knew his wife.
A.B. Whelan’s “Big Little Secrets” has a storyline that has been done before by many other authors of this genre but what makes Whelan’s book slightly more creative is the fact that most of the novel takes place in Hungary. As Clint travels to the foreign nation, the reader experiences Hungary through his eyes, and is able to fully grasp the rarely explored, ex-Soviet-ruled country as a newcomer would. I always enjoy being able to experience new places through reading, and Hungary was a new one for me.
Clint and Nelli are decent characters, a seemingly innocuous married couple, living an opulent life in Las Vegas and raising their young son. They are easy to relate to and easy to connect with, and I wanted to keep reading through to the end, hopeful for a happy ending.
Although there are some parts of the novel that read slow, especially as various parts of the Hungarian landscape and lifestyle are explained, overall the plot was suspenseful and gripping. “Big Little Secrets” takes an overdone plot, brings it to life with a unique setting, and provides a heartbreaking but complete ending. This is my first novel by Whelan, and I’m intrigued to find out where her other novels will take me.
April 20, 2022
Nelli Horvath moved to America from her native home of Hungary almost 20 years ago. She is living her best life with her husband, Clint, and their son, Ryan, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Nelli has not been back to Hungary to visit in a very long time and decides to take that opportunity when she receives a 20th high school reunion invitation. Clint quickly discovers that Nelli has gone missing in Hungary. He travels to Hungary as quickly as possible to search for his wife. Piece by piece, Clint uncovers some secrets about Nelli that makes him think that he really doesn’t know her at all.
A.B. Whelan is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance to read her new book, BIG LITTLE SECRETS. As always, I was not disappointed with her latest work. It was a great story with vivid descriptions of the setting in Hungary which was just fascinating. It had all of the author’s signature twists, turns, and surprises around every corner!
Many thanks to A.B. Whelan for my ARC!
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
A.B. Whelan is one of my favorite authors and I jumped at the chance to read her new book, BIG LITTLE SECRETS. As always, I was not disappointed with her latest work. It was a great story with vivid descriptions of the setting in Hungary which was just fascinating. It had all of the author’s signature twists, turns, and surprises around every corner!
Many thanks to A.B. Whelan for my ARC!
This review will be posted to my Instagram Blog (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
June 21, 2022
Thank you @authorabwhelan for my copy gifted copy! I always know I am in for a freaking crazy ride when I pick up one of your books and as per usual, you did not disappoint.
This is the first novel I have read that was set in Hungary that I can recall. I really enjoyed the setting and all of the scenic descriptions that were included. It really made the story just that much more exciting and interesting to me as the reader.
The novel had one major “twist” that I honestly did not see coming (if you read it, DM me and Ill tell you what it was) it totally through me for a loop. Like I said earlier, we always get suspense and page turning thrillers from this author, she also has a way of getting you to feel for the narrator. This one was told in two POV (Nelli and Clint) and I really enjoyed both. The way the POVs were set up really helped propel the story forward. One other thing I appreciate is that her writing is always concise. She gives you just the right amount of detail to get you hooked but not bored. Another knock out of the park!
This is the first novel I have read that was set in Hungary that I can recall. I really enjoyed the setting and all of the scenic descriptions that were included. It really made the story just that much more exciting and interesting to me as the reader.
The novel had one major “twist” that I honestly did not see coming (if you read it, DM me and Ill tell you what it was) it totally through me for a loop. Like I said earlier, we always get suspense and page turning thrillers from this author, she also has a way of getting you to feel for the narrator. This one was told in two POV (Nelli and Clint) and I really enjoyed both. The way the POVs were set up really helped propel the story forward. One other thing I appreciate is that her writing is always concise. She gives you just the right amount of detail to get you hooked but not bored. Another knock out of the park!
May 7, 2022
This book has an interesting concept and was very entertaining with many twists and turns. I enjoyed reading it.
April 5, 2022
Big Little Secrets by AB Whelan
Oh. My. Goodness!!!! What an atmospheric and twisty read! I flew through this book and I could not put it down! I stayed up way to late at night but I had to finish this book. There was so much secrecy, deceit, and heartbreak in this book. At one point I was almost crying and throughout most of the last 60% of the book my heart was pounding so hard!
This is the first book that I read by AB Whelan and I will be collecting all of her books to read in the future! If you don’t have this book on your TBR you need to add it!!!!
***** Many thanks to AB Whelan for the gifted copy. It was provided to me in turn for my honest opinion.
Oh. My. Goodness!!!! What an atmospheric and twisty read! I flew through this book and I could not put it down! I stayed up way to late at night but I had to finish this book. There was so much secrecy, deceit, and heartbreak in this book. At one point I was almost crying and throughout most of the last 60% of the book my heart was pounding so hard!
This is the first book that I read by AB Whelan and I will be collecting all of her books to read in the future! If you don’t have this book on your TBR you need to add it!!!!
***** Many thanks to AB Whelan for the gifted copy. It was provided to me in turn for my honest opinion.
May 8, 2022
I loved this book. I couldn't put it down, and finished it in one day, staying up late because I had to know how it ended. I loved the characters and found myself invested in it. Until close to the end, I had no idea how the author would tie up the loose ends. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 20, 2022
5* Mysterious Stars
I enjoy and look forward to A.B.’s storytelling and Big Little Secrets did not disappoint.
This was a rather intense read which centres around 8 high school friends and there 3 day trip to Austria which altered their lives forever.
Nelli, who now lives in Las Vegas, decides at the last minute to attend her 20th high school reunion in Hungry and is rather apprehensive as she has not been back for 20 years and has some unfinished business to attend too with regards to their ill-fated school trip to Austria.
When her husband Clint cannot get in touch with her, he travels to Hungry with his brother to find her and his son who accompanied her. What transpires is a maze of secrets, lies and deceit. You could feel the never-ending love he had for her and the lengths he went to in order to find out the truth.
I enjoyed the shifting between the dual perspectives, getting Nelli’s story from when she arrived in America and when she returned for her Reunion and Clint’s from his first-time meeting Nelli and his trip to her home country to find her.
This story was a fast-paced thriller which kept me guessing until the end!
May 20, 2022
I really enjoyed this thriller, I liked the field trip through Hungary looking for Clint’s wife Nelli in her home country. I honestly didn’t see how this was all going to end and I don’t want to spoil it so I’ll say no more! Thank you AB Whelan for this eARC!
May 3, 2022
A B Whelan is a must read author for me, so I was super excited to have another novel from her. AND secrets, I love when secrets are exposed and the shit hits the fan, so let’s get started on the review for Big Little Secrets.
First, we’ll meet Nelli Horvath, a Hungarian immigrant and the wife of Clint Horvath. She made one mistake during her teenage years and it has haunted her ever since. Her life has been gray, with moments of happiness here and there. She keeps tight control of herself, lest her secret from the past escapes. She didn’t expect much from life when she fled Hungary and came to the United States…but then, she met Clint. What can be so bad she can’t share it with her husband?
Things are happening around her and when the invitation for her twentieth reunion came, she felt she had no choice but to attend. She loves her husband, but she will travel to Hungary alone. I can’t imagine living under the weight of her worry, her guilt, just waiting for the anvil to drop and crush her.
She had lived under socialism in Hungary where you learned, ‘It is what it is.’ I learned a bit about Hungary, its people and their cuisine. I love when an author does their research.
My rating: For most of the book I kept thinking my rating would be a three, but the mystery was not easily solved because of so many moving parts and the ending was worth a star, seeing it was unexpected and left me feeling sad and angry, and sad and angry….
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Big Little Secrets by A B Whelan.
First, we’ll meet Nelli Horvath, a Hungarian immigrant and the wife of Clint Horvath. She made one mistake during her teenage years and it has haunted her ever since. Her life has been gray, with moments of happiness here and there. She keeps tight control of herself, lest her secret from the past escapes. She didn’t expect much from life when she fled Hungary and came to the United States…but then, she met Clint. What can be so bad she can’t share it with her husband?
Things are happening around her and when the invitation for her twentieth reunion came, she felt she had no choice but to attend. She loves her husband, but she will travel to Hungary alone. I can’t imagine living under the weight of her worry, her guilt, just waiting for the anvil to drop and crush her.
She had lived under socialism in Hungary where you learned, ‘It is what it is.’ I learned a bit about Hungary, its people and their cuisine. I love when an author does their research.
My rating: For most of the book I kept thinking my rating would be a three, but the mystery was not easily solved because of so many moving parts and the ending was worth a star, seeing it was unexpected and left me feeling sad and angry, and sad and angry….
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Big Little Secrets by A B Whelan.
April 25, 2022
I’ve never been to Hungary, but since it’s a border country with my birth one, I am aware of some parts of their culture.
I was intrigued by the story from the first chapter. After Nelli flies back to Hungary for her 20th reunion with her high school colleagues, I get to experience a fast-paced race throughout the pages to find out where everything takes me.
It was interesting to see how the author combines fiction in these two very different cultures as American and Hungarian ones.
Clint cares for his wife immensely and I loved how the author took the chance to showcase how much we take some things for granted and how less we know about the person next to us.
There are many unpredictable twists and quite a few turns where I thought I had it all sorted out. But I was wrong. And that ending is definitely the highlight for me.
Fast-paced thrilling novel that grasped my full attention from the beginning to the last page.
Very grateful to the author for my review copy.
4.5 stars
I was intrigued by the story from the first chapter. After Nelli flies back to Hungary for her 20th reunion with her high school colleagues, I get to experience a fast-paced race throughout the pages to find out where everything takes me.
It was interesting to see how the author combines fiction in these two very different cultures as American and Hungarian ones.
Clint cares for his wife immensely and I loved how the author took the chance to showcase how much we take some things for granted and how less we know about the person next to us.
There are many unpredictable twists and quite a few turns where I thought I had it all sorted out. But I was wrong. And that ending is definitely the highlight for me.
Fast-paced thrilling novel that grasped my full attention from the beginning to the last page.
Very grateful to the author for my review copy.
4.5 stars
May 8, 2022
How does one thoughtless teenager manage to ruin the lives of her six best friends and countless others caught up in the fallout? How can one grieving mother – after two decades – execute such hatred and revenge, destroying even more lives? If this is your kind of story, Big Little Lies is your kind of book.
I've not read anything previously by AB Whelan so I can't compare this to her other stories.
There’s a very slow build up to the finale, padded with all sorts of fluff. I suppose it could be a good YA book, warning teens of what one thoughtless action could lead to, but I wouldn’t want my grandchildren reading it.
I appreciate Burbank Books contacting me with an offer for this book that they sent me through NetGalley following its publication. This review reflects my own thoughts of the book.
I've not read anything previously by AB Whelan so I can't compare this to her other stories.
There’s a very slow build up to the finale, padded with all sorts of fluff. I suppose it could be a good YA book, warning teens of what one thoughtless action could lead to, but I wouldn’t want my grandchildren reading it.
I appreciate Burbank Books contacting me with an offer for this book that they sent me through NetGalley following its publication. This review reflects my own thoughts of the book.
April 17, 2022
This was my first book by AB Whelan ..and oh my goodness was this a twisty tale!!
Big Little Secrets is a fast-paced thriller about a group of teenagers whose lives have been destroyed because of a secret.
What I really loved is I felt connected to the characters.
I didn’t want this book to end & I’m hoping
the author would consider a part II 🙂.
Highly recommended! I will be adding No One Can Hear You Scream to my TBR.
Much thanks to AB Whelan for the gifted digital copy.
Big Little Secrets is a fast-paced thriller about a group of teenagers whose lives have been destroyed because of a secret.
What I really loved is I felt connected to the characters.
I didn’t want this book to end & I’m hoping
the author would consider a part II 🙂.
Highly recommended! I will be adding No One Can Hear You Scream to my TBR.
Much thanks to AB Whelan for the gifted digital copy.
May 7, 2022
The first thing to comes on my mind when somebody talk about Hungary.
I really don't like it when there are stereotypes of some countries. Here speaks a Brazilian who doesn't like samba. And this work gave me the opportunity to know a little more about hungary.
I liked the book. A lot of interesting elements. They are fundamental in a real good Thriller. Many unexpected situations that goes out from the pattern. I just realized about many situations and elements not believable and seem to depreciate the reader's intelligence. It's the my first reading from A.B. Whelan. Thanks for the opportunity. I hope to enjoy other works as well.
I really don't like it when there are stereotypes of some countries. Here speaks a Brazilian who doesn't like samba. And this work gave me the opportunity to know a little more about hungary.
I liked the book. A lot of interesting elements. They are fundamental in a real good Thriller. Many unexpected situations that goes out from the pattern. I just realized about many situations and elements not believable and seem to depreciate the reader's intelligence. It's the my first reading from A.B. Whelan. Thanks for the opportunity. I hope to enjoy other works as well.
June 19, 2022
✨ Book Review ✨
📖: Book: Big Little Secrets
✍🏻: A.B. Whelan
Rated: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Synopsis:
Nelli Horvath is a Hungarian immigrant seemingly living the American dream in Las Vegas with her husband, Clint, and their son, Ryan. After receiving an invitation to her 20th high school reunion, Nelli flies back to her home country after nearly two decades, and that’s the last time her American family hears from her. Determined to find his missing wife, Clint travels to Hungary for the first time, where he drops into the middle of a race-against-the-clock investigation, chasing clues through historical towns and sketchy places. Caught in a web of secrets and lies, Clint realizes how little he knows about his wife’s past, leaving him to wonder if he knows his wife at all.
Thoughts: 💭
When I first read the synopsis I was shocked to see the name of the main character, Nelli Horvath. Long story short my brother-in-law is engaged to a woman named Nelli. Just so happens our last name is Horvath. What a coincidence. They are actually going back to Hungary for part of their honeymoon. I was going to buy her a copy of this book to read of her flight to Hungary. That being said, so glad I didn’t get her this book before her honeymoon. It’s better to have her read it when she returns. I’m can’t give too much away but, wow. The book is told by two POV’s Nelli and her husband Clint. This is a fast paced rollover coaster of a thrill ride. It keeps you guessing at every twist and turn. If you haven’t already read this you need to add it to your tbr list now.
Thank you to NetGalley and A.B. Whelan for my ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
📖: Book: Big Little Secrets
✍🏻: A.B. Whelan
Rated: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Synopsis:
Nelli Horvath is a Hungarian immigrant seemingly living the American dream in Las Vegas with her husband, Clint, and their son, Ryan. After receiving an invitation to her 20th high school reunion, Nelli flies back to her home country after nearly two decades, and that’s the last time her American family hears from her. Determined to find his missing wife, Clint travels to Hungary for the first time, where he drops into the middle of a race-against-the-clock investigation, chasing clues through historical towns and sketchy places. Caught in a web of secrets and lies, Clint realizes how little he knows about his wife’s past, leaving him to wonder if he knows his wife at all.
Thoughts: 💭
When I first read the synopsis I was shocked to see the name of the main character, Nelli Horvath. Long story short my brother-in-law is engaged to a woman named Nelli. Just so happens our last name is Horvath. What a coincidence. They are actually going back to Hungary for part of their honeymoon. I was going to buy her a copy of this book to read of her flight to Hungary. That being said, so glad I didn’t get her this book before her honeymoon. It’s better to have her read it when she returns. I’m can’t give too much away but, wow. The book is told by two POV’s Nelli and her husband Clint. This is a fast paced rollover coaster of a thrill ride. It keeps you guessing at every twist and turn. If you haven’t already read this you need to add it to your tbr list now.
Thank you to NetGalley and A.B. Whelan for my ARC ebook in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2022
Big Little Secrets by A. B. Whelan is a domestic thriller that will knock your socks off!! Whelan has written another yet another intense novel that you will not be able to put down. It is a fast paced novel told in dual point of views that pulls you in from page one and will keep you engaged until the very last one!! The descriptive writing will take you along with each character. This story is filled with secrets, lies, and unexpected truths! It is shocking and suspenseful…..right up to that very unforeseen ending!!!! I for one love this authors writings and this one made me think if you really know the person next to you that you share your life with?!?!? I highly recommend this compelling novel to all who love a suspenseful psychological thriller and mystery!! This is a good one!!!
Thank you A.B. Whelan and Burbank Books for an advanced copy of this shocking novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
#biglittlesecrets #abwhelan #butbankbooks. #arc
#psychologicalthriller
Thank you A.B. Whelan and Burbank Books for an advanced copy of this shocking novel in exchange for my honest opinion.
#biglittlesecrets #abwhelan #butbankbooks. #arc
#psychologicalthriller
May 20, 2022
First of all, this book kept my attention. I love the cultural differences and how much they are highlighted. The mentions of the effects of the Soviet Union on the country and the stark differences between even the building structures from before, during, and after. Nelli is a troubled yet fascinating young woman. Her Ukrainian heritage adds another layer of mystery to her in that sense. Her husband Clint is a guardian Angel in her eyes. However to the rest of us he’s a regular guy, albeit a bit gullible. He bought into a hustling cons schtick and ended up working for the boisterous money hungry pos. He also let Nelli off too easily when he could tell something was going on but she produced plausible excuses. The fact that Nelli was carrying the weight of a friends disappearance for over 20 years makes it kind of a miracle she ended up with a good relationship and family. The other 6 are insanely stupid. They all try to keep the secret but it’s the wrong one to keep. If they had at least shared information within the group then all of them could have led more fulfilling happy lives instead of having the grief and guilt eating them alive all these years. Eva, her actions were understandable given the situation of course her age added to her selfishness. It’s an ugly but common trait of youth. Overall I feel like this book makes you think about being more present and honest with the people around you that you care about. If you live in the past you lose your future.
December 9, 2025
3.5 stars for me.
Nelli Horvath is living her life in America with her husband Clint and their son, Ryan.It was a surprise for her husband when she decided to go for her school reunion in Hungary.Nelli never talked about her past,and she always seem sad.When she didn't call for couple of days Clint suspects something is wrong, and follows her to her country.Finding out where is his wife ,and uncover the secrets that her old friends are hidding it's only a beginning.
What happened to them all those years ago,and where is Nelli?
It was a suspense filled story,I could not put the book down until I find out the truth.I liked Nelli,she really regrets her past and choices,and try to fix some past mistakes.Her husband Clint really loves her,and fighting to get answers.The only thing I didn't give higher rating was disappoint I feel toward the end,one of them didn't deserve it what happened to them.Beside that,the tension kept me sitting on the edge,it was great, revealing and shocking,author did a great job to have me guessing to the end.My first book by this author and will read more.
Thank you booksirens and publisher for copy,my review is honest and my own.
Nelli Horvath is living her life in America with her husband Clint and their son, Ryan.It was a surprise for her husband when she decided to go for her school reunion in Hungary.Nelli never talked about her past,and she always seem sad.When she didn't call for couple of days Clint suspects something is wrong, and follows her to her country.Finding out where is his wife ,and uncover the secrets that her old friends are hidding it's only a beginning.
What happened to them all those years ago,and where is Nelli?
It was a suspense filled story,I could not put the book down until I find out the truth.I liked Nelli,she really regrets her past and choices,and try to fix some past mistakes.Her husband Clint really loves her,and fighting to get answers.The only thing I didn't give higher rating was disappoint I feel toward the end,one of them didn't deserve it what happened to them.Beside that,the tension kept me sitting on the edge,it was great, revealing and shocking,author did a great job to have me guessing to the end.My first book by this author and will read more.
Thank you booksirens and publisher for copy,my review is honest and my own.
April 30, 2022
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author and I loved it.
On the outside, Clint and Hungarian-born Nelli have the perfect life. He earns lots of money, they live in Las Vegas and they have a young son. However, Nelli does not like living in Vegas. Nor does she like Clint’s boss who is also their landlord and has more involvement in their lives than she would like. Nelli never talks about her life in Hungary unless Clint pushes her to and even then she only tells him general stuff that could apply to anyone. Nelli is hiding a secret and this means she never returns to Hungary to visit family. Clint doesn’t think any of this is odd but just gets on with his life.
Suddenly, just as Clint is heading off on yet another business trip, Nelli announces that she and their son are going to Hungary that day so she can attend a school reunion. Clint finds this odd and begins to worry when he doesn’t hear from Nelli and he can’t get hold of her on the phone.
Clint eventually heads to Hungary with his brother to find out what is going on. The secrets Nelli has been keeping start to unravel and her school friends have all got something to hide. But where is Nelli?
This book highlights that even though you think you know someone, they can still have lots of secrets. A compelling read.
On the outside, Clint and Hungarian-born Nelli have the perfect life. He earns lots of money, they live in Las Vegas and they have a young son. However, Nelli does not like living in Vegas. Nor does she like Clint’s boss who is also their landlord and has more involvement in their lives than she would like. Nelli never talks about her life in Hungary unless Clint pushes her to and even then she only tells him general stuff that could apply to anyone. Nelli is hiding a secret and this means she never returns to Hungary to visit family. Clint doesn’t think any of this is odd but just gets on with his life.
Suddenly, just as Clint is heading off on yet another business trip, Nelli announces that she and their son are going to Hungary that day so she can attend a school reunion. Clint finds this odd and begins to worry when he doesn’t hear from Nelli and he can’t get hold of her on the phone.
Clint eventually heads to Hungary with his brother to find out what is going on. The secrets Nelli has been keeping start to unravel and her school friends have all got something to hide. But where is Nelli?
This book highlights that even though you think you know someone, they can still have lots of secrets. A compelling read.
May 29, 2022
*Thank you to Burbank Books, A.B. Whelan, and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Previously published at https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/bi...
We meet Nelli Horvath, a Hungarian immigrant and the wife of Clint Horvath, as she is leaving to attend her high school reunion in Hungary. On the outside, Clint and Nelli have a fabulous life, with significant bank accounts, a fabulous house, and a gorgeous little boy named Ryan.
Nelli does not talk about growing up in Hungary or any of her friends that she spent her teenage years with. Nelli is hiding a secret but what could be so bad that she can’t share it with Clint.? When their son disappears during a trip to Disneyland, and is returned hours later talking about an old woman who took him on rides, and gave him food, Nelli knows she must return to Hungary and confront the one woman who has the power to ruin Nelli’s life.
When Clint is packing to leave for his business trip, Nelli suddenly tells him she is going to Hungary to attend her class reunion that day.After three days go by with no response from Nelli, He leaves his business trip in New York to fly to Hungary, taking his brother Barn with him. He soon realizes that there is already an investigation as Nelli has been missing for days. When Clint meets up with an old classmate, Daniel, the secrets Nelli has been keeping unravel. All of her classmates seem to hide something.
Big Little Secrets is definitely a page turner. Though there were so many characters, I found it difficult to connect to them. I loved how the author highlighted the culture of Hungary and the effects of the Soviet Union, even discussing the building structures from before and after, but felt a little put off by the ending. I feel it is a little implausible, without giving spoilers. The story is told in a dual point of view, with Clint and Nelli using their voices to tell the story, allowing us to see deeper into the story. A.B. Whelan’s writing style really makes you feel you are moving along with the characters. Clint’s determination to detect bullshit and find his wife is refreshing, though Barn felt like an extraneous character. This is a unique story, exploring what happens when you put your friends in the position of keeping a secret for two decades and how that one secret can affect so many lives. A must read for those who love to learn about other cultures.
Previously published at https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/bi...
We meet Nelli Horvath, a Hungarian immigrant and the wife of Clint Horvath, as she is leaving to attend her high school reunion in Hungary. On the outside, Clint and Nelli have a fabulous life, with significant bank accounts, a fabulous house, and a gorgeous little boy named Ryan.
Nelli does not talk about growing up in Hungary or any of her friends that she spent her teenage years with. Nelli is hiding a secret but what could be so bad that she can’t share it with Clint.? When their son disappears during a trip to Disneyland, and is returned hours later talking about an old woman who took him on rides, and gave him food, Nelli knows she must return to Hungary and confront the one woman who has the power to ruin Nelli’s life.
When Clint is packing to leave for his business trip, Nelli suddenly tells him she is going to Hungary to attend her class reunion that day.After three days go by with no response from Nelli, He leaves his business trip in New York to fly to Hungary, taking his brother Barn with him. He soon realizes that there is already an investigation as Nelli has been missing for days. When Clint meets up with an old classmate, Daniel, the secrets Nelli has been keeping unravel. All of her classmates seem to hide something.
Big Little Secrets is definitely a page turner. Though there were so many characters, I found it difficult to connect to them. I loved how the author highlighted the culture of Hungary and the effects of the Soviet Union, even discussing the building structures from before and after, but felt a little put off by the ending. I feel it is a little implausible, without giving spoilers. The story is told in a dual point of view, with Clint and Nelli using their voices to tell the story, allowing us to see deeper into the story. A.B. Whelan’s writing style really makes you feel you are moving along with the characters. Clint’s determination to detect bullshit and find his wife is refreshing, though Barn felt like an extraneous character. This is a unique story, exploring what happens when you put your friends in the position of keeping a secret for two decades and how that one secret can affect so many lives. A must read for those who love to learn about other cultures.
April 20, 2022
A perfectly plotted mystery that I couldn't put down!
After an incident on a high school trip to Austria where her best friend went missing, Hungarian emigrant, Nelli tries, but is unable to forget the past. After moving to New York she meets her perfect husband, Clint, has a child and seems to have the happy life she always wanted. When she gets an invitation to her twentieth reunion back in Hungary she secretly makes plans to attend because she needs to come clean about what happened on that trip years ago. Up to this point she and her group of friends who were on the trip have been able to keep the facts of what happened a secret. When things start happening, Nelli believes their secret has been revealed and her family is in danger. She doesn't want Clint involved so she takes their son to Hungary intending to only be gone a week. After failing to return any of his calls, Clint becomes concerned and takes his brother to go look for her. From here the story takes some surprising turns as the search for Nelli intensifies.
This is a very well crafted story that pulls you in at the start and keeps you enthralled right to the end. Written from the POV's of Clint and Nelli the story weaves a tale of secrets and lies and what happens when they come to light. I loved how atmospheric and cinematic the writing is and that it takes you to where the story is. It was fun to race around Hungary in the frantic search to find Nelli. This one has a fast pace that keeps you turning the pages with a surprising twist at the end that leaves you satisfied.
.
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC to read, review and enjoy. I can't wait for what she has in store for us next!
After an incident on a high school trip to Austria where her best friend went missing, Hungarian emigrant, Nelli tries, but is unable to forget the past. After moving to New York she meets her perfect husband, Clint, has a child and seems to have the happy life she always wanted. When she gets an invitation to her twentieth reunion back in Hungary she secretly makes plans to attend because she needs to come clean about what happened on that trip years ago. Up to this point she and her group of friends who were on the trip have been able to keep the facts of what happened a secret. When things start happening, Nelli believes their secret has been revealed and her family is in danger. She doesn't want Clint involved so she takes their son to Hungary intending to only be gone a week. After failing to return any of his calls, Clint becomes concerned and takes his brother to go look for her. From here the story takes some surprising turns as the search for Nelli intensifies.
This is a very well crafted story that pulls you in at the start and keeps you enthralled right to the end. Written from the POV's of Clint and Nelli the story weaves a tale of secrets and lies and what happens when they come to light. I loved how atmospheric and cinematic the writing is and that it takes you to where the story is. It was fun to race around Hungary in the frantic search to find Nelli. This one has a fast pace that keeps you turning the pages with a surprising twist at the end that leaves you satisfied.
.
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC to read, review and enjoy. I can't wait for what she has in store for us next!
April 28, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Thank you @authorabwhelan for my gifted copy of Big Little Secrets.
A.B. Whelan is officially an auto buy / auto read author for me! No One Can Hear You Scream was my first book that I read by her and I am still thinking about it. Big Little Secrets will be that way for me as well!
What I loved:
✌️Two person POV - Clint and his wife Nelli
🇭🇺 Set in Hungary
🤫 This book is about the lies and secrets Nelli and her friends told when they were teenagers, and how it was haunting them to this day!
🫣 I couldn't put this book down! I needed to know how it would end!!
😱 Random Thought: I kept hearing Liam Neeson from the movie Taken saying, "I will find you and I will kill you".
😲 The twist at the end was shocking! I didn't see it coming.
Favorite Quotes:
"The question is, how far are you willing to go to find your wife?"
Available Now!
Thank you @authorabwhelan for my gifted copy of Big Little Secrets.
A.B. Whelan is officially an auto buy / auto read author for me! No One Can Hear You Scream was my first book that I read by her and I am still thinking about it. Big Little Secrets will be that way for me as well!
What I loved:
✌️Two person POV - Clint and his wife Nelli
🇭🇺 Set in Hungary
🤫 This book is about the lies and secrets Nelli and her friends told when they were teenagers, and how it was haunting them to this day!
🫣 I couldn't put this book down! I needed to know how it would end!!
😱 Random Thought: I kept hearing Liam Neeson from the movie Taken saying, "I will find you and I will kill you".
😲 The twist at the end was shocking! I didn't see it coming.
Favorite Quotes:
"The question is, how far are you willing to go to find your wife?"
Available Now!
June 4, 2022
I liked the setting as I hadnt read a book set here before so it was nice and refreshing. I do like reading books by this author. The book really gripped me although I did find elements a bit contrived, but I put that aside and just went into the book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 9, 2022
Big Little Secrets by A.B.Whelan was another winner! I was left with extremely mixed emotions at the end, which I feel was calculated purposely! There are several memorable characters in this book, with personalities that made me feel as if we were actually from the same group.
I would recommend this book to all of my thriller-loving friends.
I would recommend this book to all of my thriller-loving friends.
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