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A Five and Dime Christmas
Christmas Is a Time for Romance at an 1880s Department Store.
Christmas Romances in One Collection Woolworth's Five and Dime is a magical place to work at Christmastime, but will it also be a place to fall in love in 1881? Maggie Larson works the lunch counter where she befriends a girl who's lonely father delivers milk each Friday. Hattie Scott learns her favorite customer is Englishman Timothy Branson and a threat to her brother's job. Essie Hensley doesn't need money but welcomes the challenges of working a job where she meets a minister and six little boys who inspire Christmas wishes. A job is the only thing independent orphan Lizzie Miller needs, but she can't pass up an invite to a bookkeeper's family Christmas.
Christmas Romances in One Collection Woolworth's Five and Dime is a magical place to work at Christmastime, but will it also be a place to fall in love in 1881? Maggie Larson works the lunch counter where she befriends a girl who's lonely father delivers milk each Friday. Hattie Scott learns her favorite customer is Englishman Timothy Branson and a threat to her brother's job. Essie Hensley doesn't need money but welcomes the challenges of working a job where she meets a minister and six little boys who inspire Christmas wishes. A job is the only thing independent orphan Lizzie Miller needs, but she can't pass up an invite to a bookkeeper's family Christmas.
448 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2022
9 people are currently reading
219 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Hickey
463 books326 followersWebsite at www.cynthiahickey.com
Also www.forgetmenotromances.com
Multi-published and Amazon and ECPA Best-Selling author Cynthia Hickey had three cozy mysteries and two novellas published through Barbour Publishing. Her first mystery, Fudge-Laced Felonies, won first place in the inspirational category of the Great Expectations contest in 2007. Her third cozy, Chocolate-Covered Crime, received a four-star review from Romantic Times. All three cozies have been re-released as ebooks through the MacGregor Literary Agency, along with a new cozy series, all of which stay in the top 50 of Amazon’s ebooks for their genre. She had several historical romances release through Harlequin’s Heartsong Presents, and has sold close to a million copies of her works since 2013. She has taught a Continuing Education class at the 2015 American Christian Fiction Writers conference, several small ACFW chapters and RWA chapters. You can find her on FB, twitter, and Goodreads, and is a contributor to Cozy Mystery Magazine blog and Suspense Sisters blog. She and her husband run the small press, Forget Me Not Romances, which includes some of the CBA’s best well-known authors. She lives in Arizona with her husband, one of their seven children, two dogs, two cats, three box turtles, and two Sulcata tortoises. She has eight grandchildren who keep her busy and tell everyone they know that “Nana is a writer”.
Also www.forgetmenotromances.com
Multi-published and Amazon and ECPA Best-Selling author Cynthia Hickey had three cozy mysteries and two novellas published through Barbour Publishing. Her first mystery, Fudge-Laced Felonies, won first place in the inspirational category of the Great Expectations contest in 2007. Her third cozy, Chocolate-Covered Crime, received a four-star review from Romantic Times. All three cozies have been re-released as ebooks through the MacGregor Literary Agency, along with a new cozy series, all of which stay in the top 50 of Amazon’s ebooks for their genre. She had several historical romances release through Harlequin’s Heartsong Presents, and has sold close to a million copies of her works since 2013. She has taught a Continuing Education class at the 2015 American Christian Fiction Writers conference, several small ACFW chapters and RWA chapters. You can find her on FB, twitter, and Goodreads, and is a contributor to Cozy Mystery Magazine blog and Suspense Sisters blog. She and her husband run the small press, Forget Me Not Romances, which includes some of the CBA’s best well-known authors. She lives in Arizona with her husband, one of their seven children, two dogs, two cats, three box turtles, and two Sulcata tortoises. She has eight grandchildren who keep her busy and tell everyone they know that “Nana is a writer”.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
November 5, 2022
4 novella length Christmas type historical romance clean fiction stories based in the 1880's as women employees of Woolworth's Department store in Scranton, PA find love.
Having grown up in Pennsylvania and still living here I was tickled to see a book revolving around Woolworth's Department store five and dime that I vividly remember going to as a child. It wasn't the Scranton location but one of Pittsburgh, PA areas.
Each of the four stories is by a different author and a delight to read. We follow the lives of the co-workers and how they meet their perspective mates. Uplifting Christmas time stories. I enjoyed seeing the bible verses in this clean read. This old fashioned style book has a magical feel to it and a wonderful Christmas vibe.
Pub Date 01 Sep 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
Having grown up in Pennsylvania and still living here I was tickled to see a book revolving around Woolworth's Department store five and dime that I vividly remember going to as a child. It wasn't the Scranton location but one of Pittsburgh, PA areas.
Each of the four stories is by a different author and a delight to read. We follow the lives of the co-workers and how they meet their perspective mates. Uplifting Christmas time stories. I enjoyed seeing the bible verses in this clean read. This old fashioned style book has a magical feel to it and a wonderful Christmas vibe.
Pub Date 01 Sep 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
November 29, 2022
Four new-to-me authors took me back in time to the beginning of the Woolworth's Five and Dime stores in 1880's Scranton, Pennsylvania. Growing up, I remember these stores, and loved as a kid taking my pennies and shopping at them.
These four novellas each focused on one of the sales girls who were ahead of their time by taking a job outside of the home, and the romance they found through a customer/employee at the Woolworth Store. Filled with faith, fun, and romance, this was a thoroughly enjoyable series of novellas that each caught my attention.
These four novellas each focused on one of the sales girls who were ahead of their time by taking a job outside of the home, and the romance they found through a customer/employee at the Woolworth Store. Filled with faith, fun, and romance, this was a thoroughly enjoyable series of novellas that each caught my attention.
June 20, 2023
This book consists of four love stories from the 1880s, by four different authors, all set at the Woolworth's store in Scranton, Pennsylvania, during Christmas time. The story follows one of the girls who works at Five and Dime. Each story starts with a Bible verse that relates to how that character’s story will play out. It's faith-based, Faith elements weave seamlessly through each tale. Without exception, characters are well-drawn and likable people who work hard and respect others. A delightful read, I highly recommend this book to help get you into the Christmas spirit.
Thanks, Netgalley and Publisher for the chance to read the advanced copy!
Thanks, Netgalley and Publisher for the chance to read the advanced copy!
September 1, 2022
3.5
A very sweet collection of Christmas novellas that makes for a nice read. Historical and full of interesting tidbits.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book.
A very sweet collection of Christmas novellas that makes for a nice read. Historical and full of interesting tidbits.
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book.
November 25, 2022
The first Christmas book of 2022 read.
I liked the first story in this collection the best.
All the stories were sweet and nostalgic, but the romances were a bit shallow, mainly because they only had a novella length to get it done.
The narrator was excellent.
I liked the first story in this collection the best.
All the stories were sweet and nostalgic, but the romances were a bit shallow, mainly because they only had a novella length to get it done.
The narrator was excellent.
August 19, 2022
A Merry Little Christmas by Susanne Dietze - Hattie and Tim are so cute together. I love that Tim visits her everyday. They have some challenges to overcome, but with trust in the Lord they make it through.
A Home for Christmas by Patty Smith Hall - I loved Essie and Max's story. Essie has no idea how wonderful she is. Luckily Max sees it. This was a wonderful sweet story.
The Light of Christmas by Christina Lorenzen - Henry was such an awkward guy at the beginning of this story. I'm glad he finally caught his stride. Lizzie was so strong and independent. I loved her character and longed for her to find love and family again. Lizzie and Henry seemed like an odd match in the beginning but that quickly changed and I really enjoyed their story.
Lunch with Maggie by Cynthia Hickey - Maggie and Seth are wonderful people and so good together. They've both suffered heartache, but were better for it. This was a beautiful story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
A Home for Christmas by Patty Smith Hall - I loved Essie and Max's story. Essie has no idea how wonderful she is. Luckily Max sees it. This was a wonderful sweet story.
The Light of Christmas by Christina Lorenzen - Henry was such an awkward guy at the beginning of this story. I'm glad he finally caught his stride. Lizzie was so strong and independent. I loved her character and longed for her to find love and family again. Lizzie and Henry seemed like an odd match in the beginning but that quickly changed and I really enjoyed their story.
Lunch with Maggie by Cynthia Hickey - Maggie and Seth are wonderful people and so good together. They've both suffered heartache, but were better for it. This was a beautiful story.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley and this is my honest review.
December 23, 2025
This collection of Christmas short stories/novellas was pretty sweet. I liked the first two the best.
“A Merry Little Christmas” by Susanne Dietz featured main character Hattie Scott discovering that her favorite Englishman customer works for someone who wants to change the place her brother works for in such a way that he might lose his job. I thought it was a good reflection of the changes in industry going on in that era (and, tangentially made me think of the fears people are experiencing today with various technological changes happening. I know this wasn’t an intentional connection on the author’s part, it just shows that there’s nothing new under the sun, even when the news cycle wants us to think everything under the sun is “unprecedented.”) It was a sweet romance and I liked the way the main couple came together to try to save people’s jobs even while the technology of the day changed.
The second one, “A Home for Christmas,” by Patty Smith Hall was probably my top favorite, though. Essie Hensley is an heiress who doesn’t need money still prefers to work a job. She was in an accident that left her permanently in a leg brace, and while she is of sound mind and body otherwise, society, including her own parents, can treat her like damaged goods because of it. Holding a job helps her feel normal and useful. It’s at her job at the Five and Dime that she meets a curious pastor who always comes in and buys six of everything, and upon talking to him, she discovers that he’s raising six orphan boys. I really loved their romance. Pastor Warner (sp? I listened on audio) was a kind and good man just trying to do right by the boys God had placed in his care, and he was one of the few men who didn’t look at Essie differently because of her leg brace. I loved that he wanted to care for the boys because he too had been an orphan who only ended up where he is as an adult because of Christian kindness. The way the boys were portrayed was also fun and well done. But I think my favorite part was when Essie’s best friend called her out on the way that Essie too had started looking at herself as damaged goods and unlovable, struggling to accept the idea that Pastor Warner might really love her. She needed a good talking to so she could remember that she’s as lovable as any other human, and that’s what her friend gave her, speaking encouragement and life over her, whether she was ready to hear it or not. A second favorite part was the moment when the pastor told the orphan boys that he wanted them to call him “Papa” and see each other as one big family. It was very sweet and I enjoyed their dynamic together.
The third story, “The Light of Christmas” by Christina Lorenzen did a good job developing Lizzie Miller’s background and acknowledging how someone who has lost their family (her parents had both died) may struggle with grief and loneliness at Christmas time. But for some reason, I just didn’t click as well with the build up of the romance. It just didn’t feel as natural to me as the previous two, though I can’t quite verbalize why. Maybe it felt a little too fast, or something. Still, it was nice enough.
The fourth story featured Maggie Larson who had been left at the alter by her previous fiancé. I liked the way the story dealt with the deep hurt that this caused her, and even shook her faith in God as she felt that God could have stopped the painful moment from happening. But Seth and his daughter were able to help her come to terms with it and find her faith again. I wasn’t sure how I felt about the romance specifically in this one, though, if only because it was stated that Seth’s previous wife had passed away and this was his and his daughter’s first Christmas without her. While yes, some people do find love again fairly soon after losing a spouse, and there’s nothing wrong with that, I also know that grief can be especially tough around holidays in the first year after the passing. I just struggled a little with feeling that this romance also moved a bit too quickly due to it trying to fit into novella length, and that in reality, while the main characters might feel attraction to each other that first Christmas, they might have needed to take longer for the relationship to develop.
Overall, though, these were some fun, Christmassy stories. Even if I didn’t always feel like the romances worked, I did like the historical settings and thought the themes for each were done pretty well, so I’m going with four stars.
Content Advisory:
Language:
None.
Violence/Scariness:
No violence. As stated, a couple of the stories deal a bit with grief.
Sexual/Romance:
None of the stories go beyond kissing, and the kisses that occur are only moderately described. Essie’s friend, while trying to convince her that the pastor does love her, does make some colorful comparisons, like saying that he looks at her like a “Christmas present he can’t wait to unwrap” or a chocolate that he “wants to take a bite out of,” but Essie and Pastor Warner only ever conduct themselves appropriately with each other.
Spiritual:
These stories are all Christian fiction and feature the characters’ faith in some form.
“A Merry Little Christmas” by Susanne Dietz featured main character Hattie Scott discovering that her favorite Englishman customer works for someone who wants to change the place her brother works for in such a way that he might lose his job. I thought it was a good reflection of the changes in industry going on in that era (and, tangentially made me think of the fears people are experiencing today with various technological changes happening. I know this wasn’t an intentional connection on the author’s part, it just shows that there’s nothing new under the sun, even when the news cycle wants us to think everything under the sun is “unprecedented.”) It was a sweet romance and I liked the way the main couple came together to try to save people’s jobs even while the technology of the day changed.
The second one, “A Home for Christmas,” by Patty Smith Hall was probably my top favorite, though. Essie Hensley is an heiress who doesn’t need money still prefers to work a job. She was in an accident that left her permanently in a leg brace, and while she is of sound mind and body otherwise, society, including her own parents, can treat her like damaged goods because of it. Holding a job helps her feel normal and useful. It’s at her job at the Five and Dime that she meets a curious pastor who always comes in and buys six of everything, and upon talking to him, she discovers that he’s raising six orphan boys. I really loved their romance. Pastor Warner (sp? I listened on audio) was a kind and good man just trying to do right by the boys God had placed in his care, and he was one of the few men who didn’t look at Essie differently because of her leg brace. I loved that he wanted to care for the boys because he too had been an orphan who only ended up where he is as an adult because of Christian kindness. The way the boys were portrayed was also fun and well done. But I think my favorite part was when Essie’s best friend called her out on the way that Essie too had started looking at herself as damaged goods and unlovable, struggling to accept the idea that Pastor Warner might really love her. She needed a good talking to so she could remember that she’s as lovable as any other human, and that’s what her friend gave her, speaking encouragement and life over her, whether she was ready to hear it or not. A second favorite part was the moment when the pastor told the orphan boys that he wanted them to call him “Papa” and see each other as one big family. It was very sweet and I enjoyed their dynamic together.
The third story, “The Light of Christmas” by Christina Lorenzen did a good job developing Lizzie Miller’s background and acknowledging how someone who has lost their family (her parents had both died) may struggle with grief and loneliness at Christmas time. But for some reason, I just didn’t click as well with the build up of the romance. It just didn’t feel as natural to me as the previous two, though I can’t quite verbalize why. Maybe it felt a little too fast, or something. Still, it was nice enough.
The fourth story featured Maggie Larson who had been left at the alter by her previous fiancé. I liked the way the story dealt with the deep hurt that this caused her, and even shook her faith in God as she felt that God could have stopped the painful moment from happening. But Seth and his daughter were able to help her come to terms with it and find her faith again. I wasn’t sure how I felt about the romance specifically in this one, though, if only because it was stated that Seth’s previous wife had passed away and this was his and his daughter’s first Christmas without her. While yes, some people do find love again fairly soon after losing a spouse, and there’s nothing wrong with that, I also know that grief can be especially tough around holidays in the first year after the passing. I just struggled a little with feeling that this romance also moved a bit too quickly due to it trying to fit into novella length, and that in reality, while the main characters might feel attraction to each other that first Christmas, they might have needed to take longer for the relationship to develop.
Overall, though, these were some fun, Christmassy stories. Even if I didn’t always feel like the romances worked, I did like the historical settings and thought the themes for each were done pretty well, so I’m going with four stars.
Content Advisory:
Language:
None.
Violence/Scariness:
No violence. As stated, a couple of the stories deal a bit with grief.
Sexual/Romance:
None of the stories go beyond kissing, and the kisses that occur are only moderately described. Essie’s friend, while trying to convince her that the pastor does love her, does make some colorful comparisons, like saying that he looks at her like a “Christmas present he can’t wait to unwrap” or a chocolate that he “wants to take a bite out of,” but Essie and Pastor Warner only ever conduct themselves appropriately with each other.
Spiritual:
These stories are all Christian fiction and feature the characters’ faith in some form.
October 3, 2022
The nostalgic novellas of Five and Dime Christmas tug on the heartstrings and transport us to the golden heydays of the five and dime stores in the 1880s.
Four uplifting and endearing tales written by four excellent authors take us back into days of yore and to Christmases past.
One young woman's experience working for F. W. Woolworth is the focus and center of each tale. The individual novellas begin with a Bible verse pointing to the essence and main idea of the story, bringing in the religious element, which is much appreciated. The young women work in various departments of the store, providing us with information on each section. The details of Christmas provide the big red bow on top!
Five and Dime Christmas by Suzanne Dietze, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey and Christina Lorenzen is a great story to set the mood for Christmas. All you need is to curl up in your favorite chair with hot chocolate and dream of yesteryear!
I received a review copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Four uplifting and endearing tales written by four excellent authors take us back into days of yore and to Christmases past.
One young woman's experience working for F. W. Woolworth is the focus and center of each tale. The individual novellas begin with a Bible verse pointing to the essence and main idea of the story, bringing in the religious element, which is much appreciated. The young women work in various departments of the store, providing us with information on each section. The details of Christmas provide the big red bow on top!
Five and Dime Christmas by Suzanne Dietze, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey and Christina Lorenzen is a great story to set the mood for Christmas. All you need is to curl up in your favorite chair with hot chocolate and dream of yesteryear!
I received a review copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 31, 2022
Five and Dime Christmas is a wonderful novella collection full of heartwarming Christmas tales that will tug at your heartstrings and remind you of the true reason for the reason this Christmas.
Set in the 1880's, the collection follows four lovely young ladies that work at the popular Woodworth's five and dime store in Scranton, Pennsylvania. I appreciated that each novella was distinctive from the others, and I loved how the faith element was at the front and center of each one.
With the way our world is going nowadays, this collection was a much needed respite, and I could barely bring myself to put it down.
A Merry Little Christmas was a cutesy holiday romance that finds clerk Hattie falling for the handsome Englishman who continuously frequents the store. However, as she takes on a second job working for him, a huge obstacle emerges that seems to put their chance at future happiness at stake. Only by trusting the One who knows the way better than they ever could can this couple ever find their way to happily ever after.
5/5.
A Home For Christmas tells the story of socialite Essie Banfield who has taken a job at Woodworth's to try and give her life more meaning. When a handsome pastor who has taken in six boys off the street starts to steal her heart, Essie begins to wonder if God has even more in store for her future than she could have ever imagined.
This one was a wonderful tale that spoke of the need for charity and compassion, and how it's such an essential part of the Christian faith. This one definitely gave me all the Christmas feels.
5/5.
The Light of Christmas was kind of a poor girl/rich boy type of romance, and was a tenderhearted story about store clerk Lizzie who's caught the eye of Woodworth's newest employee, Henry. However, when Lizzie discovers that Henry is from one of the most prominent families in Scranton, she's not sure she could ever measure up to his family's grand expectations. A wonderful, heartwarming romance that emphasized the need for Jesus and community, and how nothing is ever impossible for our Heavenly Father.
5/5.
Lunch With Maggie is the last of the four stories, and it ended up being my personal favorite. A touching story about a woman who's been left at the altar, and a charming widow and his young daughter who capture her heart, and begin the process of bringing her heart back to Jesus and back to love.
5/5.
This collection is a beautiful bunch of stories, and I enjoyed each and every one. It's definitely needed this holiday season to remind us all to keep our eyes on Jesus, and I highly recommend it.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Barbour Fiction for allowing me to advance read and review this one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via Netgalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
Set in the 1880's, the collection follows four lovely young ladies that work at the popular Woodworth's five and dime store in Scranton, Pennsylvania. I appreciated that each novella was distinctive from the others, and I loved how the faith element was at the front and center of each one.
With the way our world is going nowadays, this collection was a much needed respite, and I could barely bring myself to put it down.
A Merry Little Christmas was a cutesy holiday romance that finds clerk Hattie falling for the handsome Englishman who continuously frequents the store. However, as she takes on a second job working for him, a huge obstacle emerges that seems to put their chance at future happiness at stake. Only by trusting the One who knows the way better than they ever could can this couple ever find their way to happily ever after.
5/5.
A Home For Christmas tells the story of socialite Essie Banfield who has taken a job at Woodworth's to try and give her life more meaning. When a handsome pastor who has taken in six boys off the street starts to steal her heart, Essie begins to wonder if God has even more in store for her future than she could have ever imagined.
This one was a wonderful tale that spoke of the need for charity and compassion, and how it's such an essential part of the Christian faith. This one definitely gave me all the Christmas feels.
5/5.
The Light of Christmas was kind of a poor girl/rich boy type of romance, and was a tenderhearted story about store clerk Lizzie who's caught the eye of Woodworth's newest employee, Henry. However, when Lizzie discovers that Henry is from one of the most prominent families in Scranton, she's not sure she could ever measure up to his family's grand expectations. A wonderful, heartwarming romance that emphasized the need for Jesus and community, and how nothing is ever impossible for our Heavenly Father.
5/5.
Lunch With Maggie is the last of the four stories, and it ended up being my personal favorite. A touching story about a woman who's been left at the altar, and a charming widow and his young daughter who capture her heart, and begin the process of bringing her heart back to Jesus and back to love.
5/5.
This collection is a beautiful bunch of stories, and I enjoyed each and every one. It's definitely needed this holiday season to remind us all to keep our eyes on Jesus, and I highly recommend it.
Final Rating: 5/5.
Thanks so much to Barbour Fiction for allowing me to advance read and review this one!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Barbour) via Netgalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.
January 4, 2023
What a delightful collection of Christmas stories. There are four included by a couple of authors that I am familiar with and a couple that I have never read before. (Isn't it fun to discover new authors?) The common thread that weaves through each of the stories is the department store. Besides that the characters are individual in each of the stories. I read a story each night and enjoyed them all. Highly recommend for the Christmas season.
July 25, 2024
This was a fantastic Historical Christian Christmas fiction anthology. Each of the 4 talented authors center their stories around the Five and dime store that Woolworths made famous in the 1800s. The stories were believable and the characters were heartwarming. Highly recommended! I was able to read a copy of this book via Overdrive, but it did not in any way affect my review. All opinions are my own.
December 20, 2024
What a lovely way to round out the year. Each of the four stories features a woman working at Woolworth's in Scranton, PA in the year 1881. Each story happens around Christmas and each woman has some problems happening in their lives, though nothing too major and each ends up finding happiness. How each story unfolds is unique and sometimes fraught with trouble, but each leaves the reader feeling good.
The fact that the stories were set in Woolworth's brought back many happy memories of shopping in that store when I was younger. Also, the four novellas are written in a Christian theme and emphasize values that the true story of Christmas represents.
The fact that the stories were set in Woolworth's brought back many happy memories of shopping in that store when I was younger. Also, the four novellas are written in a Christian theme and emphasize values that the true story of Christmas represents.
November 29, 2022
A cute set of historical romances set at Christmastime. I liked the Woolworth's theme for the stories-that was fun. Good read.
December 17, 2022
Just what I needed to get in a festive mood! These four historical romances set at Christmas time are sure to warm even the heart of Scrooge :-) Delightful, inspirational, warm-hearted, satisfying and quick reads for the busy holiday season. I loved getting a glimpse in times past!
January 21, 2024
Phew! Finally finished this collection of four - Christmas western historical romance stories. The first story took me twenty days to read... the second, third and fourth story took me less than a day! And that is how it usually goes with these sorta books!
January 4, 2024
4.5⭐️
I adored these novellas. The first two novellas were my favorite personally and I loved how the authors included prayer in the stories. The third one fell a little flat for me. The writing seemed repetitive and didn’t have as much depth compared to the others. Lastly, the fourth novella tied it with a bow! Sweet, faith filled, has the joy of Christmas.
I adored these novellas. The first two novellas were my favorite personally and I loved how the authors included prayer in the stories. The third one fell a little flat for me. The writing seemed repetitive and didn’t have as much depth compared to the others. Lastly, the fourth novella tied it with a bow! Sweet, faith filled, has the joy of Christmas.
December 22, 2022
Four couples find love at Christmastime thanks to Woolworth's Five and Dime.
A Merry Little Christmas by Susanne Dietze
Hattie Scott tasks on a second job working as a secretary for the man compiling a report that could put her family's livelihood at risk.
An enjoyable Christmas romance, I loved how Hattie and Timothy bonded over their shared faith. Timothy is a kind and honorable man, I loved his heart for others, and how he was always offering to help others out.
A Home for Christmas by Patty Smith Hall
Essie wants to do more with her life than exist for society, so she takes a job at the Five and Dime, where she meets a minister who has taken in 6 orphan boys.
A heartwarming and sweet holiday read, I liked that Essie wanted to bless others with what she had been given. And Max is a wonderful man with a big heart. Such a cute story.
The Light of Christmas by Christina Lorenzen
A charming workplace romance.
Henry is determined to work his place up from the tool counter to the accounting offices of Woolworth's, while working the sales floor he meets Lizzie. Lizzie is working hard to keep her family home, can they overcome Henry's match making mother and their differing stations to find love?
I liked how so much of the story occurred within the walls of the store, bringing to life the hustle and bustle of the store at Christmastime. Henry is a driven and goal-oriented man, I liked how meeting Lizzie helped him to see things differently and imagine a new future.
Lunch with Maggie by Cynthia Hickey
After being left at the altar, Maggie Larson isn't sure if she will love again. She befriends a young girl and her widower father while working at Woolworth's lunch counter. Will she change her mind about love?
A sweet romance of second chances and hope at Christmas time. I liked how Seth was understanding and patient with Maggie, plus his daughter was super cute!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A Merry Little Christmas by Susanne Dietze
Hattie Scott tasks on a second job working as a secretary for the man compiling a report that could put her family's livelihood at risk.
An enjoyable Christmas romance, I loved how Hattie and Timothy bonded over their shared faith. Timothy is a kind and honorable man, I loved his heart for others, and how he was always offering to help others out.
A Home for Christmas by Patty Smith Hall
Essie wants to do more with her life than exist for society, so she takes a job at the Five and Dime, where she meets a minister who has taken in 6 orphan boys.
A heartwarming and sweet holiday read, I liked that Essie wanted to bless others with what she had been given. And Max is a wonderful man with a big heart. Such a cute story.
The Light of Christmas by Christina Lorenzen
A charming workplace romance.
Henry is determined to work his place up from the tool counter to the accounting offices of Woolworth's, while working the sales floor he meets Lizzie. Lizzie is working hard to keep her family home, can they overcome Henry's match making mother and their differing stations to find love?
I liked how so much of the story occurred within the walls of the store, bringing to life the hustle and bustle of the store at Christmastime. Henry is a driven and goal-oriented man, I liked how meeting Lizzie helped him to see things differently and imagine a new future.
Lunch with Maggie by Cynthia Hickey
After being left at the altar, Maggie Larson isn't sure if she will love again. She befriends a young girl and her widower father while working at Woolworth's lunch counter. Will she change her mind about love?
A sweet romance of second chances and hope at Christmas time. I liked how Seth was understanding and patient with Maggie, plus his daughter was super cute!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 17, 2022
There was never a Woolworth's Five and Dime in my hometown, but we did have a Sterling's and Kress's Five and Dime and those stores have some pleasant memories for me. While I wasn't born in the 1880s when these stories took place, there are still aspects of the stories that bring fond memories.
These are four novellas that overlap in time and sequence, yet each story holds its own charm and allure. Hattie, Essie, Lizzie, and Maggie all work in different departments of the Woolworth's in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Hattie is working to bring in extra money for her family after her father dies and her mother becomes ill. She takes on an extra secretarial job to help ease the finances for Christmas. It turns out her boss is also a customer that she sees frequently in her section of the store.
Essie likes the challenge of the work she is doing and when she meets a pastor who is fostering six young boys to keep them off the streets, she decides to do what she can to help out the boys.
Lizzie has lost her whole family and is working to hold onto her house. Her department is adjacent to the tools and hardware section of the store where Henry works. Henry wants to prove himself instead of just being handed a position in his father's company.
Maggie was left at the altar on her wedding day and she's lost her faith in God. Daniel is a widower with a young daughter and a dairy farm. Every Friday he comes to the lunch counter where Maggie works and has lunch with his daughter who has taken a shine to Maggie.
Some events of these stories are simultaneous and seem to work really well together in spite of being written by four different authors. The styles and plot developments are seamlessly woven together to make an entertaining read for a couple of afternoons to get you into the mood for Christmas. Four Strong Stars.
Barbour Books supplied the copy I read for this review. These are solely my own opinions.
These are four novellas that overlap in time and sequence, yet each story holds its own charm and allure. Hattie, Essie, Lizzie, and Maggie all work in different departments of the Woolworth's in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
Hattie is working to bring in extra money for her family after her father dies and her mother becomes ill. She takes on an extra secretarial job to help ease the finances for Christmas. It turns out her boss is also a customer that she sees frequently in her section of the store.
Essie likes the challenge of the work she is doing and when she meets a pastor who is fostering six young boys to keep them off the streets, she decides to do what she can to help out the boys.
Lizzie has lost her whole family and is working to hold onto her house. Her department is adjacent to the tools and hardware section of the store where Henry works. Henry wants to prove himself instead of just being handed a position in his father's company.
Maggie was left at the altar on her wedding day and she's lost her faith in God. Daniel is a widower with a young daughter and a dairy farm. Every Friday he comes to the lunch counter where Maggie works and has lunch with his daughter who has taken a shine to Maggie.
Some events of these stories are simultaneous and seem to work really well together in spite of being written by four different authors. The styles and plot developments are seamlessly woven together to make an entertaining read for a couple of afternoons to get you into the mood for Christmas. Four Strong Stars.
Barbour Books supplied the copy I read for this review. These are solely my own opinions.
September 9, 2022
Charming, charming, charming. Loved this novella of a Five & Dime Christmas.
1881, Scranton Pennsylvania is the center of these four novellas. Four young ladies are each working in Woolworths department store. Each has their own story to tell. And each one finds love along the way.
A Merry Little Christmas finds Hattie working to help her family. When a handsome Englishman keeps coming into the store, she is intrigued. When she takes on a secretarial job, she finds her boss to be Timothy Branson, the very same Englishman who frequents her store. But when she finds out her brothers job may be on the line because of Timothy's work, can they reconcile their differences. And make a difference?
In A Home for Christmas socialite Essie Banfield takes a job at Woolworths to give her life purpose. When she meets Pastor Max Warner, who has taken in six homeless boys, she finds her heart full of compassion and wants to help. Will Max turn her down when he finds out she is not who he thinks she is.
The Light of Christmas finds Henry catching the eye of independent Lizzie. This is a delightful story of a slow love bloom.
Lunch with Maggie. Poor Maggie Larson, left at the altar, and turned off to marriage. A charming widower and his daughter lunch at the counter every Friday. Will Seth's slow attention bring Maggie's heart back to God and love?
This clean Christmas collection by Susanne Dietze, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, and Christina Lorenzen can be read anytime of the year. But it certainly put me in the Christmas mood with it's faith based elements.
I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
1881, Scranton Pennsylvania is the center of these four novellas. Four young ladies are each working in Woolworths department store. Each has their own story to tell. And each one finds love along the way.
A Merry Little Christmas finds Hattie working to help her family. When a handsome Englishman keeps coming into the store, she is intrigued. When she takes on a secretarial job, she finds her boss to be Timothy Branson, the very same Englishman who frequents her store. But when she finds out her brothers job may be on the line because of Timothy's work, can they reconcile their differences. And make a difference?
In A Home for Christmas socialite Essie Banfield takes a job at Woolworths to give her life purpose. When she meets Pastor Max Warner, who has taken in six homeless boys, she finds her heart full of compassion and wants to help. Will Max turn her down when he finds out she is not who he thinks she is.
The Light of Christmas finds Henry catching the eye of independent Lizzie. This is a delightful story of a slow love bloom.
Lunch with Maggie. Poor Maggie Larson, left at the altar, and turned off to marriage. A charming widower and his daughter lunch at the counter every Friday. Will Seth's slow attention bring Maggie's heart back to God and love?
This clean Christmas collection by Susanne Dietze, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, and Christina Lorenzen can be read anytime of the year. But it certainly put me in the Christmas mood with it's faith based elements.
I received a complimentary ebook copy from the publisher, through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 13, 2023
Do you have a favorite job or place your worked? One of my favorite jobs was working for the local dime store in my hometown as a teenager. It was a great place to work with a great boss, the late Mr. Soncrant. Mr. Soncrant and the dime store were immortalized in the children’s book Something About Hensley’s by Patricia Polacco. It’s neat to have a past job immortalized.
I was very excited to read a collection of four Christmas novellas set in in a five and dime store called Five and Dime Romance. All four stories were set in 1881 in a Woolworth’s store in Scranton Pennsylvania. Each story is about a different young woman that works at the store and her finding a true love. Different characters also find the true meaning of Christmas as well. I’m not going to break down a summary of each story, but I will say I loved each and every one of these four stories. I loved the historic setting, the characters, and the plot. There is just something about historic Christmas stories that I enjoy. They were clean, Christian romances. I would highly recommend this collection.
This is my last Christmas book for this year . . . although depending on the weather, I may yet read another one this winter.
Review Copy from Netgalley. Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2023...
I was very excited to read a collection of four Christmas novellas set in in a five and dime store called Five and Dime Romance. All four stories were set in 1881 in a Woolworth’s store in Scranton Pennsylvania. Each story is about a different young woman that works at the store and her finding a true love. Different characters also find the true meaning of Christmas as well. I’m not going to break down a summary of each story, but I will say I loved each and every one of these four stories. I loved the historic setting, the characters, and the plot. There is just something about historic Christmas stories that I enjoy. They were clean, Christian romances. I would highly recommend this collection.
This is my last Christmas book for this year . . . although depending on the weather, I may yet read another one this winter.
Review Copy from Netgalley. Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2023...
September 7, 2022
A Merry Little Christmas: 3.5 stars
A Home for Christmas: 3 stars
The Light of Christmas: 2 stars
Lunch with Maggie: 3.5 stars.
This is a delightful little collection of Christmas novellas! Reading about all the chilly cheerfulness was perfect in the middle of this hot summer. I think the fourth novella, Lunch with Maggie, might be my favorite of them all, but I really truly enjoyed the first one, A Merry Little Christmas, also. And A Home For Christmas, while not perfect, was an enjoyable read. The Light of Christmas was the only one I had trouble connecting with. I'm not sure what it was, but I spent the whole novella wanting to DNF it - and I finished it uncertain if I wanted to go to the trouble of reading the fourth novella. I'm glad I did though, because the final installment was a lovely ending to a beautiful set. The small town Christmas joys were out in full force and I may look up three of these authors to see if they've written any other cute Christmas tales. The stories clearly fit together well, and managed to be different enough to not feel repetitive or recycled. There were similar themes, of course, but all in all, it was a good collection and I'd recommend the first, second, and fourth stories in it. And, who knows, maybe the third one will connect with you in a way it didn't for me.
A Home for Christmas: 3 stars
The Light of Christmas: 2 stars
Lunch with Maggie: 3.5 stars.
This is a delightful little collection of Christmas novellas! Reading about all the chilly cheerfulness was perfect in the middle of this hot summer. I think the fourth novella, Lunch with Maggie, might be my favorite of them all, but I really truly enjoyed the first one, A Merry Little Christmas, also. And A Home For Christmas, while not perfect, was an enjoyable read. The Light of Christmas was the only one I had trouble connecting with. I'm not sure what it was, but I spent the whole novella wanting to DNF it - and I finished it uncertain if I wanted to go to the trouble of reading the fourth novella. I'm glad I did though, because the final installment was a lovely ending to a beautiful set. The small town Christmas joys were out in full force and I may look up three of these authors to see if they've written any other cute Christmas tales. The stories clearly fit together well, and managed to be different enough to not feel repetitive or recycled. There were similar themes, of course, but all in all, it was a good collection and I'd recommend the first, second, and fourth stories in it. And, who knows, maybe the third one will connect with you in a way it didn't for me.
August 26, 2022
Five and Dime Christmas by Susanne Dietze, Patty Smith Hall, Cynthia Hickey, and Christina Lorenzen contains four historical novellas set during the 1880s. All four stories are set in Scranton, Pennsylvania with the female main character working at Woolworth’s Five and Dime. There is a Bible verse at the beginning of each novella that relates to the story. These are charming Christian stories that take place during the holiday season. The Christian element is nicely done (not preachy). I liked the characters in each story. The main characters are likeable and realistic. I especially liked Essie Banfield and Pastor Max Warner. The four stories are connected by Woolworth’s and the ladies who worked there. I thought the various authors writing styles as well as the story plots worked well together. I enjoyed the wonderful descriptions that brought the scenes alive. I could just envision the Woolworth’s with its lovely Christmas display in the window. I like that each one is a novella which makes them easy to read in a short timeframe (perfect for someone who is busy). The stories will get you in the mood for Christmas. Five and Dime Christmas has four cozy Christian tales that will touch your heart.
December 19, 2022
Five and Dime Christmas is a collection of four historical romance novellas by authors Cynthia Hickey, Susanne Dietze, Patty Smith Hall, & Christina Lorenzen.
I love Christmas novellas and I especially love ones that are historical romances, so this collection was a wonderful read. I liked how all four stories took place at the same time, yet did not overlap and spoil one another.
It’s difficult to pick a favorite. I loved all four and the main characters in each. The four women who worked at the Five and Dime each had their own set of difficulties, from money troubles to physical limitations, but the women also had goals, which didn’t include a husband. Until four certain men entered their lives.
How everything worked out for the four women, you’ll have to read for yourselves. I highly recommend that you do! This was a delightful peek into the 1881 Five and Dime, and four of the women who worked there.
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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
I love Christmas novellas and I especially love ones that are historical romances, so this collection was a wonderful read. I liked how all four stories took place at the same time, yet did not overlap and spoil one another.
It’s difficult to pick a favorite. I loved all four and the main characters in each. The four women who worked at the Five and Dime each had their own set of difficulties, from money troubles to physical limitations, but the women also had goals, which didn’t include a husband. Until four certain men entered their lives.
How everything worked out for the four women, you’ll have to read for yourselves. I highly recommend that you do! This was a delightful peek into the 1881 Five and Dime, and four of the women who worked there.
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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
August 11, 2022
I love novella collections, particularly Christmas-themed one, and this charming collection fits the bill! After all, it's never too early for Christmas stories!
All four stories features characters connected to the Woolworth's Five and Dime store in Scranton, PA in the 1800s. Faith elements are woven throughout each story and do not come across as preachy. The novella nature of each story makes them quick reads, so they fit nicely into a busy schedule. While there are familiar characters in the various stories, each one could stand alone. Characters are relatable and realistic, the settings cozy, and the descriptions vibrant to make the reader feel a part of the story. As this takes place in the 1800s, it was also nice to be reminded of a simpler time, when life wasn't the crazy, hectic pace that it is now.
This is definitely a book for fans of clean read romances to add to the TBR pile!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
All four stories features characters connected to the Woolworth's Five and Dime store in Scranton, PA in the 1800s. Faith elements are woven throughout each story and do not come across as preachy. The novella nature of each story makes them quick reads, so they fit nicely into a busy schedule. While there are familiar characters in the various stories, each one could stand alone. Characters are relatable and realistic, the settings cozy, and the descriptions vibrant to make the reader feel a part of the story. As this takes place in the 1800s, it was also nice to be reminded of a simpler time, when life wasn't the crazy, hectic pace that it is now.
This is definitely a book for fans of clean read romances to add to the TBR pile!
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
September 18, 2022
I had higher hopes for this series of novellas, but they turned out to be soppy romantic fodder that would do better as a Hallmark movie than a book.
To be fair, the first story was interesting, with the woman who worked in the store having to work under the man who might do away with her brother’s job. That plot appeal was quickly undermined, however, by annoying moments, like where the main character fawned over the love interest’s British accent.
It seemed like each story had a perfect main character (with some kind of sob-story to give her sympathy: orphan, disability, left at the altar), while the love interest was a great man (strong, tall, “husband material” to quote from the last novella) who just had to get over his own insecurities in getting to know the main character.
Each story mentioned Christmas and God, but these elements were used more as a backdrop to romance than really demonstrating the importance of Christmas and having a relationship with God.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
To be fair, the first story was interesting, with the woman who worked in the store having to work under the man who might do away with her brother’s job. That plot appeal was quickly undermined, however, by annoying moments, like where the main character fawned over the love interest’s British accent.
It seemed like each story had a perfect main character (with some kind of sob-story to give her sympathy: orphan, disability, left at the altar), while the love interest was a great man (strong, tall, “husband material” to quote from the last novella) who just had to get over his own insecurities in getting to know the main character.
Each story mentioned Christmas and God, but these elements were used more as a backdrop to romance than really demonstrating the importance of Christmas and having a relationship with God.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2022
This charming quartet of Christmas novellas center on four women co-workers at the original Woolworth's Five and Dime in Scranton, Pennsylvania. As I am of a "certain age", there was one not far from me and it carried a great variety of items. Sadly, things weren't 5¢ or 10¢ and there was no soda fountain!
The history behind this long-ago iconic institution is revealed here and to great effect. The Christmas backdrop is ideal, as well! Faith elements weave seamlessly through each tale. Without exception, characters are well-drawn and likable people who work hard and respect others. They embody true Christmas spirit, and it's heartwarming. The reader will find no unnecessary melodrama here.
Susanne Dietze is the lone author I'd previously read, and I love her writing style. The other three novelists' contributions are enjoyable as well, and I will read more of their works.
Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an ARC of this delightful collection.
The history behind this long-ago iconic institution is revealed here and to great effect. The Christmas backdrop is ideal, as well! Faith elements weave seamlessly through each tale. Without exception, characters are well-drawn and likable people who work hard and respect others. They embody true Christmas spirit, and it's heartwarming. The reader will find no unnecessary melodrama here.
Susanne Dietze is the lone author I'd previously read, and I love her writing style. The other three novelists' contributions are enjoyable as well, and I will read more of their works.
Thanks to NetGalley and Barbour Publishing for an ARC of this delightful collection.
August 22, 2022
You know you are wrapped up in a Christmas book when you put it down and are stunned when you look outside to see summer. I was so wrapped up in the cozy feels of this book I could have sworn it was winter.
Each story in this lovely novella will transport you back to Woolworth's Five & Dime. I remember the lunch counter fondly from my youth and could picture my Woolworths in all its glory. While it probably wasn't a five and dime during my time, the lunch counter was always a constant. It definitely brought back a lot of warm memories. I loved how each story included characters from the other stories. It was a delight to read.
The faith element was perfect, as were the romances. I was sorry to put this book down. If you are looking for an excellent book to read now or you want to wait until Christmas, you will not be disappointed in this charming collection. I highly recommend it!
I received a review copy from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley for my honest opinion.
Each story in this lovely novella will transport you back to Woolworth's Five & Dime. I remember the lunch counter fondly from my youth and could picture my Woolworths in all its glory. While it probably wasn't a five and dime during my time, the lunch counter was always a constant. It definitely brought back a lot of warm memories. I loved how each story included characters from the other stories. It was a delight to read.
The faith element was perfect, as were the romances. I was sorry to put this book down. If you are looking for an excellent book to read now or you want to wait until Christmas, you will not be disappointed in this charming collection. I highly recommend it!
I received a review copy from Barbour Publishing through NetGalley for my honest opinion.
September 24, 2022
Five and Dime Christmas may be my new favorite Christmas compilation. With heartwarming stories based out of a now extinct department store, it grants a sense of nostalgia with the timeless hope of love at Christmastime. Each story follows the 'Happy Ever After' of a young saleswomen in 1881 (or thereabouts) and the subtle ways each author connected her story to another within the book were a cute part of each story. I had never heard of the authors from this particular compilation and each novella inspired me to look at their other works for my own personal reading.
I loved each of the heroines and would look forward to pulling this book out with my other 'Christmastime books' to curl up with in the busy season for a quick satisfying read in the midst of Holiday craziness.
Woolworth's Stores may be gone forever, but love and Christmas miracles remain timeless in 'Five and Dime Christmas.'
I loved each of the heroines and would look forward to pulling this book out with my other 'Christmastime books' to curl up with in the busy season for a quick satisfying read in the midst of Holiday craziness.
Woolworth's Stores may be gone forever, but love and Christmas miracles remain timeless in 'Five and Dime Christmas.'
October 3, 2023
Novella 1 by @susannedietze
“A merry little Christmas”
4/5 Stars
This story was very cute. Loved how the characters worked together to solve the company problem.
Novella 2 by @authorpattysmithhall
“A Home for Christmas”
5/5 Stars
Essie has a lame foot she thinks no one will be with her because of it but is wrong of course. Really liked this one.
Novella 3 by @christina_lorenzen
“The Light of Christmas”
4/5 stars
Cute story. Rich Guy, poorish girl scenario.
Novella 4 by @cynthia.hickey.author
“Lunch with Maggie”
5/5
This story was my favorite of the 4. I felt like this story had a lot more depth to it. Loved the coming back to God after loss element.
Overall great collection of novellas. I love how all 4 are connected and all four girls work together at the same Five and Dime. Great book for Christmas time!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“A merry little Christmas”
4/5 Stars
This story was very cute. Loved how the characters worked together to solve the company problem.
Novella 2 by @authorpattysmithhall
“A Home for Christmas”
5/5 Stars
Essie has a lame foot she thinks no one will be with her because of it but is wrong of course. Really liked this one.
Novella 3 by @christina_lorenzen
“The Light of Christmas”
4/5 stars
Cute story. Rich Guy, poorish girl scenario.
Novella 4 by @cynthia.hickey.author
“Lunch with Maggie”
5/5
This story was my favorite of the 4. I felt like this story had a lot more depth to it. Loved the coming back to God after loss element.
Overall great collection of novellas. I love how all 4 are connected and all four girls work together at the same Five and Dime. Great book for Christmas time!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
February 10, 2025
This January was a particularly hard month for me, so a dear friend recommended this book as a pleasant, easy read. I usually read a Christmas themed book every Dec., but I didn't in 2024, so I decided to give it a try and it was just as she said - four Christian themed novellas set in Scranton, Pa. in 1881 around Christmas time with each heroine working in the Scranton Woolworth's 5 & Dime store. I found the book particularly nostalgic because my first real job was working a 5 & Dime store. (not in the 1880's but the mid 1970's) That job was a great first job and it taught me how to work hard and get along with so many different people. Our four heroines- Hattie, Essie, Lizzie and Maggie, each have a story; taking care of an invalid widowed Mother, trying to overcome being handicapped, loss of family, loss of love. They each find romance, purpose and renewed faith in these sweet stories. Happy endings all around.
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