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If a Poem Could Live and Breathe
A fact-based romantic speculative novel about Teddy Roosevelt’s first love, by Mary Calvi, author of Dear George, Dear Mary.
Studded with the real love letters between a young Theodore Roosevelt and Boston beauty Alice Lee―many of them never before published― If a Poem Could Live and Breathe makes vivid what many historians believe to be the pivotal years that made the future president into the man of action that defined his political life, and cemented his legacy.
Cambridge, 1878. The era of the Gilded Age. Alice Lee sets out to break from the norms of her mother’s generation. Women are fighting for educational opportunities and exploring a new sense of intellectual and personal freedom. Native New Yorker, Harvard student Teddy Roosevelt, is on his own journey of discovery, and when they meet, unrelenting currents of love change the trajectory of his life forever.
If a Poem Could Live and Breathe is an indelible portrait of the authenticity of first love, the heartache of loss, and how overcoming the worst of life’s obstacles can push one to greatness never imagined.
Studded with the real love letters between a young Theodore Roosevelt and Boston beauty Alice Lee―many of them never before published― If a Poem Could Live and Breathe makes vivid what many historians believe to be the pivotal years that made the future president into the man of action that defined his political life, and cemented his legacy.
Cambridge, 1878. The era of the Gilded Age. Alice Lee sets out to break from the norms of her mother’s generation. Women are fighting for educational opportunities and exploring a new sense of intellectual and personal freedom. Native New Yorker, Harvard student Teddy Roosevelt, is on his own journey of discovery, and when they meet, unrelenting currents of love change the trajectory of his life forever.
If a Poem Could Live and Breathe is an indelible portrait of the authenticity of first love, the heartache of loss, and how overcoming the worst of life’s obstacles can push one to greatness never imagined.
308 pages, Hardcover
First published February 14, 2023
106 people are currently reading
5204 people want to read
About the author
Mary Calvi
2 books186 followersMARY CALVI is the host of Club Calvi. Readers choose what book we start next from a choice of three fabulous newly published novels. After we finish, the club celebrates with a big virtual book club meetup with the author. It's free. It's fun. And it's a great way to connect with other readers.
www.clubcalvi.com
Calvi is the author of two presidential novels, DEAR GEORGE, DEAR MARY: A Novel of George Washington's First Love, and IF A POEM COULD LIVE AND BREATHE: A Novel of Teddy Roosevelt's First Love. Both are historical fiction and are based on never-before-published research on the presidents.
www.clubcalvi.com
Calvi is the author of two presidential novels, DEAR GEORGE, DEAR MARY: A Novel of George Washington's First Love, and IF A POEM COULD LIVE AND BREATHE: A Novel of Teddy Roosevelt's First Love. Both are historical fiction and are based on never-before-published research on the presidents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 188 reviews
December 27, 2022
I’ve always been fascinated by Teddy Roosevelt. But the books I’ve read all concentrate on his adult years and mostly after the death of his wife, Alice. This book is about their love. And he was definitely in love. He was smitten at first sight. They met when he was a junior at Harvard and she was just shy of eighteen. Neither was what was considered normal for their class or time. Theodore was considered eccentric. Alice, much to the dismay of her mother, was not exactly ladylike with her desire for advanced education and women’s rights.
The story veers towards the sappy at times. I think the author was trying to emulate the writing of the times, but I found it overly sugary. I wanted more historical fiction and less romance novel. More a meeting of the minds and less swooning. I wanted more of their fiery personalities. I could have also done without a description of every dress Alice wore.
Calvi does a good job of getting the thoughts of the times down. Alice’s illness is put down to the idea that women weren’t designed for deep thought.” The influence of severe intellectual exertion in women is found to produce physiological effects”, according to her doctor. Flip side, it was interesting to read about the efforts to open Harvard to women.
The book switches between “The Present” of 1885 (after Alice’s death in 1884) and “The Past” when they first meet and move forward into marriage. The Present takes place after Theodore has headed to North Dakota and is trying his hand at ranching and dealing with his grief. The latter part of the book includes many actual letters between the two.
My thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
The story veers towards the sappy at times. I think the author was trying to emulate the writing of the times, but I found it overly sugary. I wanted more historical fiction and less romance novel. More a meeting of the minds and less swooning. I wanted more of their fiery personalities. I could have also done without a description of every dress Alice wore.
Calvi does a good job of getting the thoughts of the times down. Alice’s illness is put down to the idea that women weren’t designed for deep thought.” The influence of severe intellectual exertion in women is found to produce physiological effects”, according to her doctor. Flip side, it was interesting to read about the efforts to open Harvard to women.
The book switches between “The Present” of 1885 (after Alice’s death in 1884) and “The Past” when they first meet and move forward into marriage. The Present takes place after Theodore has headed to North Dakota and is trying his hand at ranching and dealing with his grief. The latter part of the book includes many actual letters between the two.
My thanks to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
September 5, 2023
After seeing Mary Calvi promoting her new book and being interviewed by the station that she works for, CBS-TV (where she is a Morning News anchor), I was enthralled. Seems Calvi did do a lot of research on the subjects, Theodore Roosevelt and Alice Hathaway but what really caught my attention was how excited Calvi was to find their real love letters to one another which obviously helped to form her story. Unfortunately I didn’t really “feel” the love that these two supposedly had for one another, letters or no letters.
After eagerly awaiting for the book’s release, sadly, I am sorely disappointed. It was pretty dull and quite forgettable.
After eagerly awaiting for the book’s release, sadly, I am sorely disappointed. It was pretty dull and quite forgettable.
January 29, 2023
It was 1878 in Cambridge when Alice Lee starts to break free from the expectations of her mother’s generation. Alice sets off in the midst of a female generation that is fighting for their educational opportunities and other freedoms. Teddy Roosevelt is a student at Harvard at the time and also on a path of discovery. When these two meet and fall in love, it changes their lives forever.
IF A POEM COULD LIVE AND BREATHE is a remarkable story. I admit I didn't know much about Teddy Roosevelt going into reading this. If you enjoy a good love story and are a historical fiction fan, then you will love this book! The courtship and letters written by Teddy and Alice were remarkable and were my favorite parts to read in the book. I always enjoy reading the author’s notes and I really appreciated all the research Mary Calvi did in creating this beautiful novel.
I would like to thank Mary Calvi and St. Martin's Press for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
IF A POEM COULD LIVE AND BREATHE is a remarkable story. I admit I didn't know much about Teddy Roosevelt going into reading this. If you enjoy a good love story and are a historical fiction fan, then you will love this book! The courtship and letters written by Teddy and Alice were remarkable and were my favorite parts to read in the book. I always enjoy reading the author’s notes and I really appreciated all the research Mary Calvi did in creating this beautiful novel.
I would like to thank Mary Calvi and St. Martin's Press for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the near future.
February 13, 2023
4.5 stars. Review soon.
Thank you SMP for the gifted eARC.
Thank you SMP for the gifted eARC.
March 4, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
IF A POEM COULD LIVE AND BREATHE: A Novel of Teddy Roosevelt’s First Love by Mary Calvi is a speculative historical fiction based on Theodore Roosevelt’s first love and marriage to Alice Lee. This is a beautiful young love story based on actual letters. Set in the Gilded Age, two young people are discovering themselves, their possibilities, and their love.
In 1878, Alice Lee is fighting the strictures of her mother’s generation. It is a time when women are fighting for educational opportunities and intellectual freedom. Alice wants to be able to receive advanced education in the newly opened women’s annex at Harvard, but her mother has other plans for her as she is a beauty many eligible and wealthy young men are interested in.
Harvard student, Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt is finding a world of opportunities with his new friends. He has survived a childhood plagued by asthma and has grown into a young man who wills himself to fight through his asthma attacks and enjoy everything life has to offer. When he attends a weekend away with one of his Harvard classmates, he finds himself in the presence of the most beautiful young girl he has ever seen and instantly falls in love for the first time in his life. He is determined to make her fall for him too.
This is such a beautiful story of young, first love. Due to this time in history, societal expectations play a large role in their friendship and then courtship. The book is written in “The Present” with Teddy on his ranch in the Badlands after the death of his wife and “The Past” with their meeting through first year of marriage until Alice’s death. The letters between Alice and Teddy give the readers a look into their relationship with Ms. Calvi giving the readers a well-researched and realistic look at the culture and mores of 1878-1885 New England society. Alice had my heart from the start with her love of education and freedom of choice and that Teddy accepted that in her and stood up for her ideas and beliefs in public made me appreciate him even more. Although Alice and Teddy’s love story was just a short period in his overall lifetime and he refused to discuss it after his return from the Badlands, he honored that relationship in action with the freedom from societal norms he allowed their daughter, Alice.
I highly recommend this bittersweet and yet beautiful young love historical fiction romance.
IF A POEM COULD LIVE AND BREATHE: A Novel of Teddy Roosevelt’s First Love by Mary Calvi is a speculative historical fiction based on Theodore Roosevelt’s first love and marriage to Alice Lee. This is a beautiful young love story based on actual letters. Set in the Gilded Age, two young people are discovering themselves, their possibilities, and their love.
In 1878, Alice Lee is fighting the strictures of her mother’s generation. It is a time when women are fighting for educational opportunities and intellectual freedom. Alice wants to be able to receive advanced education in the newly opened women’s annex at Harvard, but her mother has other plans for her as she is a beauty many eligible and wealthy young men are interested in.
Harvard student, Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt is finding a world of opportunities with his new friends. He has survived a childhood plagued by asthma and has grown into a young man who wills himself to fight through his asthma attacks and enjoy everything life has to offer. When he attends a weekend away with one of his Harvard classmates, he finds himself in the presence of the most beautiful young girl he has ever seen and instantly falls in love for the first time in his life. He is determined to make her fall for him too.
This is such a beautiful story of young, first love. Due to this time in history, societal expectations play a large role in their friendship and then courtship. The book is written in “The Present” with Teddy on his ranch in the Badlands after the death of his wife and “The Past” with their meeting through first year of marriage until Alice’s death. The letters between Alice and Teddy give the readers a look into their relationship with Ms. Calvi giving the readers a well-researched and realistic look at the culture and mores of 1878-1885 New England society. Alice had my heart from the start with her love of education and freedom of choice and that Teddy accepted that in her and stood up for her ideas and beliefs in public made me appreciate him even more. Although Alice and Teddy’s love story was just a short period in his overall lifetime and he refused to discuss it after his return from the Badlands, he honored that relationship in action with the freedom from societal norms he allowed their daughter, Alice.
I highly recommend this bittersweet and yet beautiful young love historical fiction romance.
October 5, 2022
It has been a long time since a book has moved me as much as If a Poem Could Live and Breathe. This book is an intimate history written as fiction, with so much drawn from real historical archives, of Theodore Roosevelt and his first love and wife Alice Hathaway Lee. I found it to be warm and tender with a sorrowful ending which left me in tears. I don’t think many people realize the romantic that existed in a young Teddy Roosevelt. We see the fun loving man that was so at home with nature and all animals. He was a great friend to many. His “formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.” He did this in all his relationships and was very well liked because of it. His story with Alice was more precious than words. “Her intellect and charm, that’s what drew him to her”. Alice was an advocate for women’s rights and Teddy supported these beliefs. They recited Shakespeare together many times throughout the story and enjoyed philosophical debates all in good fun. Their love letters to each other are so real and from the heart they can truly touch the soul. I found an interesting thread throughout the book about a red-headed bird which would be seen by Alice and Teddy whenever something important in their lives was about to happen. They both loved birds and Teddy could imitate many bird songs which enchanted Alice. Their love story was one for the history books and I am so glad many of those memories were preserved enough for Mary Calvi to be able to write this wonderful story.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
November 22, 2022
A fact-based romantic speculative novel about Teddy Roosevelt’s first love
My grandfather was a big fan of Teddy Roosevelt. It could have been from when his dad told him about Roosevelt coming to North Dakota and also telling him this story.
Alice Lee was a beautiful woman from Boston. In 1878, she set out to shatter the idea of women in previous generations. Women are fighting for freedom and educational opportunities and Alice is one of those women. Looking to shake things up.
Teddy Roosevelt is a Harvard student on a journey of his own. Both exploring, and discovering new territories, and each other. When Teddy meets Alice, he is smitten. The love they had was never replicated. They had a child and when Alice dies, he returns and eventually becomes President.
This beautiful look at the poems and love letters they wrote is touching. It shows a different side to Roosevelt and explains some of his behavior. One thing I noted was the fact that he never let anyone say Alice in front of him. Such love.
A wonderful look at the power of first love and loss and how it shapes our lives.
NetGalley/February 14th, 2023 by St. Martin’s Press
My grandfather was a big fan of Teddy Roosevelt. It could have been from when his dad told him about Roosevelt coming to North Dakota and also telling him this story.
Alice Lee was a beautiful woman from Boston. In 1878, she set out to shatter the idea of women in previous generations. Women are fighting for freedom and educational opportunities and Alice is one of those women. Looking to shake things up.
Teddy Roosevelt is a Harvard student on a journey of his own. Both exploring, and discovering new territories, and each other. When Teddy meets Alice, he is smitten. The love they had was never replicated. They had a child and when Alice dies, he returns and eventually becomes President.
This beautiful look at the poems and love letters they wrote is touching. It shows a different side to Roosevelt and explains some of his behavior. One thing I noted was the fact that he never let anyone say Alice in front of him. Such love.
A wonderful look at the power of first love and loss and how it shapes our lives.
NetGalley/February 14th, 2023 by St. Martin’s Press
December 29, 2022
Mary Calvi captures the sweet courtship and deep, enduring love between Theodore Roosevelt and his first wife, Alice Hathaway Lee in If a Poem Could Live and Breathe. I found myself surprised to read the letters the two wrote one another, around which Calvi crafted this fictionalized version of their love story. I’d never thought of Teddy Roosevelt as a romantic, but his letters to Alice display a man head over heels in love with a woman who inspired and supported him in equal measure, and vice versa. I was also surprised to learn that Alice was a staunch advocate for women’s rights, views which Teddy fully supported.
Mary Calvi’s passion for these historical figures is evident in her writing, which perfectly reflects the enthusiasm and hope of the young, impassioned hearts expressed in their love letters. Her skillful research also brought to life Teddy and Alice’s New York City and Chestnut Hill during the Gilded Age.
Though their story was cut short far too soon, the bittersweet ending left me thinking about Teddy and Alice long after I closed the book. Their love was beautiful and true, and all the more touching for the way the loss of it clearly impacted the man who would go on to become the 26th President of the United States. I’m grateful to have gotten a glimpse into this version of their love, a story shaped and told with such care.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Mary Calvi for an ARC of this lovely book!
Mary Calvi’s passion for these historical figures is evident in her writing, which perfectly reflects the enthusiasm and hope of the young, impassioned hearts expressed in their love letters. Her skillful research also brought to life Teddy and Alice’s New York City and Chestnut Hill during the Gilded Age.
Though their story was cut short far too soon, the bittersweet ending left me thinking about Teddy and Alice long after I closed the book. Their love was beautiful and true, and all the more touching for the way the loss of it clearly impacted the man who would go on to become the 26th President of the United States. I’m grateful to have gotten a glimpse into this version of their love, a story shaped and told with such care.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Mary Calvi for an ARC of this lovely book!
January 13, 2023
"If a poem could live and breathe, Alice Hathaway Lee would be its title."
A beautiful story of love-lyrical in itself.
I loved this novelization based on the letters of Teddy Roosevelt and his first wife, Alice Hathaway Lee. Vivid descriptions of nature, culture, conversations and people surrounding this progressive couple dropped me right into the story with little distraction.
I highly recommend Teddy and Alice and their journey. It'll leave you sighing for love's sake.
Thank you, NetGalley for an advanced copy.
A beautiful story of love-lyrical in itself.
I loved this novelization based on the letters of Teddy Roosevelt and his first wife, Alice Hathaway Lee. Vivid descriptions of nature, culture, conversations and people surrounding this progressive couple dropped me right into the story with little distraction.
I highly recommend Teddy and Alice and their journey. It'll leave you sighing for love's sake.
Thank you, NetGalley for an advanced copy.
September 30, 2022
I have mixed opinions on this book. I enjoyed learning the story of Theodore Roosevelt and Alice. It was a good time piece and the characters were very well developed. Yet somehow I wasn’t pulled into the story. I ended up skimming much of the second half of the book as I was ready to finished with it. I do believe though there will be those who thoroughly enjoy it. It just wasn’t for me.
February 13, 2023
This was a fact-based, touching historic account of Theodore Roosevelt’s childhood and first love & belated wife, Alice Lee. It is a romantic tragedy that is still beautiful to read as you get to glimpse Teddy and Alice’s first meeting and their life thereafter. They formed a friendship that ultimately led to being each other’s first love and to them forming an unbreakable bond.
The vivid accounts were told via Teddy’s looking back upon the past and remembering those moments and told via two perspectives (Teddy and Alice) as if it were present day. The details of their friendship turned courtship was both humorous and fun. It was a wonderful look at the relationships each had with their family and the way they introduced one another to their own families.
The growth of each character was astounding and seeing the transformation to their independence was created from the things they were most passionate about.
The Author weaves a love story through the letters they wrote to each other whenever they were apart; showing their love was just as much a poem as the poetry they loved to recite.
The story follows this endearing love through college to marriage and eventually their firstborn child.
Their journey ends in a loss that seems unsurvivable. You see Teddy struggle and become so destitute but learn to go on for the love he has for his child and as a testament to Alice and his poetic love.
The vivid accounts were told via Teddy’s looking back upon the past and remembering those moments and told via two perspectives (Teddy and Alice) as if it were present day. The details of their friendship turned courtship was both humorous and fun. It was a wonderful look at the relationships each had with their family and the way they introduced one another to their own families.
The growth of each character was astounding and seeing the transformation to their independence was created from the things they were most passionate about.
The Author weaves a love story through the letters they wrote to each other whenever they were apart; showing their love was just as much a poem as the poetry they loved to recite.
The story follows this endearing love through college to marriage and eventually their firstborn child.
Their journey ends in a loss that seems unsurvivable. You see Teddy struggle and become so destitute but learn to go on for the love he has for his child and as a testament to Alice and his poetic love.
February 11, 2023
Poignant, fact-based story of Teddy Roosevelt’s first love
Quote from book after Teddy tried to outrun grief: “If I have learned anything from being here, it is that courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength. Today I shall go home.” This book is phenomenal.
Read the “Note to the Reader” from the author for a fuller description of how she came to have the information to write such a lovely albeit sad story. This book is told in Four Parts and opens with Theodore on his land in North Dakota in the year 1884. The book shifts in each Part from the first chapter in Teddy’s present-day to the story of his meeting, loving, marrying and losing his greatest love, Alice Hathaway Lee. I still cry as I remember parts of this stirring and incomparable novel.
I’ll admit that I researched a bit about Theodore and Alice before reading the book. Although her death in all likelihood made Teddy the man he became, it would be so nice to imagine that her death never had to occur. This book was quite a departure from what I usually read but I devoured it. If you like sensitively told, well-written and captivating almost-true stories, this is a must read. Truly this is a ten-star book! I volunteered to review an ARC of it through NetGalley.
Quote from book after Teddy tried to outrun grief: “If I have learned anything from being here, it is that courage is not having the strength to go on; it is going on when you don’t have the strength. Today I shall go home.” This book is phenomenal.
Read the “Note to the Reader” from the author for a fuller description of how she came to have the information to write such a lovely albeit sad story. This book is told in Four Parts and opens with Theodore on his land in North Dakota in the year 1884. The book shifts in each Part from the first chapter in Teddy’s present-day to the story of his meeting, loving, marrying and losing his greatest love, Alice Hathaway Lee. I still cry as I remember parts of this stirring and incomparable novel.
I’ll admit that I researched a bit about Theodore and Alice before reading the book. Although her death in all likelihood made Teddy the man he became, it would be so nice to imagine that her death never had to occur. This book was quite a departure from what I usually read but I devoured it. If you like sensitively told, well-written and captivating almost-true stories, this is a must read. Truly this is a ten-star book! I volunteered to review an ARC of it through NetGalley.
July 9, 2023
If a Poem Could Live and Breathe: A Novel of Teddy Roosevelt's First Love By Mary Calvinist a beautifully written speculative historical fiction based on real love letters about Teddy Roosevelt and his first love set during the height of the Gilded Age.
The novel is told in four parts and opens with Teddy on his land in North Dakota in the year 1884. The book chrinicles Teddy’s present-day to the story of his meeting, loving, marrying and losing his greatest love, Alice Hathaway Lee.
What a profound story of love and the life of one of our most influential leaders of all time.
The novel is told in four parts and opens with Teddy on his land in North Dakota in the year 1884. The book chrinicles Teddy’s present-day to the story of his meeting, loving, marrying and losing his greatest love, Alice Hathaway Lee.
What a profound story of love and the life of one of our most influential leaders of all time.
February 4, 2023
*I received an advanced copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
I requested this ARC a few months back because the title intrigued me — I admittedly don’t know much about Theodore Roosevelt, but something about his first love and the fact that Mary Calvi pieced a beautiful story together from previously unpublished letters between Theodore and Alice…so breathtaking. it takes place during Roosevelt’s college days, as a young man at Harvard in Cambridge, MA (we also LOVE settings close to where we live!). he accompanies his friend Richard to his home to meet his sister Rose and their cousin, Alice, and it is quite literally love at first sight. Miss Alice Hathaway Lee is so ahead of her time - wearing trousers under her dress and applying to be a student at the “Harvard Annex” for women, as inspired and managed by Elizabeth Agassiz.
I’ve lived in Boston for about half a year now, and now learning of these women who fought for their right to higher education so close to where I live makes me simultaneously ecstatic and upset that this is the first I’m learning about it! Alice and her “Thee” have a beautiful, albeit heartbreaking love story that is definitely worth a read. And it comes out on Valentine’s Day - which is significant for SO many reasons. cannot recommend enough if you’re a historical fiction fan or if you’re dipping your toes in for the first time!
I requested this ARC a few months back because the title intrigued me — I admittedly don’t know much about Theodore Roosevelt, but something about his first love and the fact that Mary Calvi pieced a beautiful story together from previously unpublished letters between Theodore and Alice…so breathtaking. it takes place during Roosevelt’s college days, as a young man at Harvard in Cambridge, MA (we also LOVE settings close to where we live!). he accompanies his friend Richard to his home to meet his sister Rose and their cousin, Alice, and it is quite literally love at first sight. Miss Alice Hathaway Lee is so ahead of her time - wearing trousers under her dress and applying to be a student at the “Harvard Annex” for women, as inspired and managed by Elizabeth Agassiz.
I’ve lived in Boston for about half a year now, and now learning of these women who fought for their right to higher education so close to where I live makes me simultaneously ecstatic and upset that this is the first I’m learning about it! Alice and her “Thee” have a beautiful, albeit heartbreaking love story that is definitely worth a read. And it comes out on Valentine’s Day - which is significant for SO many reasons. cannot recommend enough if you’re a historical fiction fan or if you’re dipping your toes in for the first time!
January 28, 2023
The month of February is upon us, and there is a vibrant love story publishing soon about Teddy Roosevelt’s first love, Alice Hathaway Lee. In keeping with the Gilded Age language, philosophical ideas and late 19th century fashions, the author Mary Calvi creates an appropriately imagined first meeting between young Mr. Roosevelt and young Miss Lee.
No matter how we label their story, it was a courtship and marriage of immediate passion and enduring love. There are also stories of Alice Lee’s interest in feminism and Theodore Roosevelt’s interest in natural resources. Judging from the quality of their love letters to one another, it seems that romance has taken a sharp turn in the 140 years since this couple fell in love.
No matter how we label their story, it was a courtship and marriage of immediate passion and enduring love. There are also stories of Alice Lee’s interest in feminism and Theodore Roosevelt’s interest in natural resources. Judging from the quality of their love letters to one another, it seems that romance has taken a sharp turn in the 140 years since this couple fell in love.
November 4, 2022
Beautifully written. Mary Calvi has captured the love between Teddy Roosevelt and Alice Hathaway Lee and has taken her readers on a poetic journey through their courtship and marriage. The letters written between Roosevelt and Alice are expertly woven into the story and Calvi keeps the voices of the two and the love they shared throughout the story. This book is definitely on my top ten reads for this year. If you enjoy historical fiction with a love story woven in, then this book is for you. Thank you, Mary Calvi and St. Martin's Press, for giving me the opportunity to read and fall in love with a beautiful story that I will be thinking of for many years to come.
December 21, 2022
I received this as an advanced reader copy. It was a delight and Mary is a wonderful writer. Mary imbues the story with such a strong sense of place, I felt as though I were immersed in the time period of 1878. Even if you think you know a lot about Teddy Roosevelt, this fact-based novel offers some nice context and surprises. I highly recommend it.
October 1, 2022
Love this book. Seeing a young Teddy Roosevelt, and his quirky personality, and his first love for Alice Lee. The love letters between them.
I was given an opportunity to read this book, and so happy I did. I would definitely recommend this book to my book club.
I was given an opportunity to read this book, and so happy I did. I would definitely recommend this book to my book club.
November 14, 2022
I could not put this book down!! This was a wonderful book about Teddy Roosevelt’s and Alice Hathaway Lee and the love letters they wrote to each other. It’s about their love for each other and the life they shared. Very very good!!
December 21, 2022
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The setting: "Studded with the real love letters between a young Theodore Roosevelt and Boston beauty Alice Lee—many of them never before published—If a Poem Could Live and Breathe makes vivid what many historians believe to be the pivotal years that made the future president into the man of action that defined his political life, and cemented his legacy.... Alice Lee sets out to break from the norms of her mother’s generation. Women are fighting for educational opportunities and exploring a new sense of intellectual and personal freedom. Native New Yorker, Harvard student Teddy Roosevelt, is on his own journey of discovery, and when they meet..."
What I liked: the history and research. A strong woman protaganist--Alice Lee Hathaway was Roosevelt's first wife and his great love. And, learning about Roosevelt's early life, pre-politics.
What I disliked--ALOT--the mush--it overwhelmed me, and was a disconnect, I could have walked away at any time after several/too many iterations.
A few examples:
"...feeling his powerful thighs through the wool of his pants. She imagined his masculinity would be even more apparent below the material."
"...his lips nearing hers, and there was nothing she could do but fall."
"Pink with a full lower lip, curved at the corners--her mouth, he imagine, would be delicious to the taste."
"The pink lips of her rose into a delightful curve."
"Lips explored each others."
Lots of lips--and there's more!!
My head screamed STOP!!
On the plus side: new words: anosmic and quaternions. And learning that "...chestnuts are the foulest smelling of all arbors."
In the distinct minority of readers.
2.5. Not rounding up.
The setting: "Studded with the real love letters between a young Theodore Roosevelt and Boston beauty Alice Lee—many of them never before published—If a Poem Could Live and Breathe makes vivid what many historians believe to be the pivotal years that made the future president into the man of action that defined his political life, and cemented his legacy.... Alice Lee sets out to break from the norms of her mother’s generation. Women are fighting for educational opportunities and exploring a new sense of intellectual and personal freedom. Native New Yorker, Harvard student Teddy Roosevelt, is on his own journey of discovery, and when they meet..."
What I liked: the history and research. A strong woman protaganist--Alice Lee Hathaway was Roosevelt's first wife and his great love. And, learning about Roosevelt's early life, pre-politics.
What I disliked--ALOT--the mush--it overwhelmed me, and was a disconnect, I could have walked away at any time after several/too many iterations.
A few examples:
"...feeling his powerful thighs through the wool of his pants. She imagined his masculinity would be even more apparent below the material."
"...his lips nearing hers, and there was nothing she could do but fall."
"Pink with a full lower lip, curved at the corners--her mouth, he imagine, would be delicious to the taste."
"The pink lips of her rose into a delightful curve."
"Lips explored each others."
Lots of lips--and there's more!!
My head screamed STOP!!
On the plus side: new words: anosmic and quaternions. And learning that "...chestnuts are the foulest smelling of all arbors."
In the distinct minority of readers.
2.5. Not rounding up.
February 18, 2024
3.5 stars but I’ll round up instead of down :)
Premise—💯
Plot—mostly historical (could use a better author’s note)
Primary texts—incorporated well
Writing—sappy/cringe
Theodore Roosevelt’s Mother and Wife died on the same day, Valentines Day, just a day after Alice gave birth. He never wanted to talk about it after that, even refused to call his daughter Alice by her given name and referred to her as “Baby Lee” instead. He didn’t write of Alice in his autobiography; she was purged as well as she could be from his painful memories. It was the only way he could think to go on. 💔
So this book is ground-breaking for bringing the story to light, but for also exhuming their letters, never before published. 💌
The execution of telling their story was overall disappointing. Very much a Marie Benedict situation where you think THIS COULD HAVE BEEN SO GOOD, and the ball was just fumbled somewhere.
But I will always read books like these, despite any shortcomings, due to their historical significance, and I will be watching to see what she puts out next.
Premise—💯
Plot—mostly historical (could use a better author’s note)
Primary texts—incorporated well
Writing—sappy/cringe
Theodore Roosevelt’s Mother and Wife died on the same day, Valentines Day, just a day after Alice gave birth. He never wanted to talk about it after that, even refused to call his daughter Alice by her given name and referred to her as “Baby Lee” instead. He didn’t write of Alice in his autobiography; she was purged as well as she could be from his painful memories. It was the only way he could think to go on. 💔
So this book is ground-breaking for bringing the story to light, but for also exhuming their letters, never before published. 💌
The execution of telling their story was overall disappointing. Very much a Marie Benedict situation where you think THIS COULD HAVE BEEN SO GOOD, and the ball was just fumbled somewhere.
But I will always read books like these, despite any shortcomings, due to their historical significance, and I will be watching to see what she puts out next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
✨ PRINCEMAN REVIEW ✨
Have you ever been so captivated by a TRUE love story, that you KNOW their love will be told over and over for generations to come? The story of Theodore Roosevelt and Alice Lee is one I didn't know much about, but now I will never be able to forget it. In 'If a Poem Could Love and Breath,' by Mary Calvin, readers can experience what it's like to fall in love with one's soulmate.
📝 In 1878, Harvard student, Teddy Roosevelt, is discovering his own path and what his future will entail. Until he lays eyes on socialite, Alice Lee, and everything changes. Alice wants to be more than a woman who's expected to marry She wants a chance at an education that only men are allowed to have. What unfolds is one of the greatest love stories between one of America's presidents and a woman who was destined to change history in the United States.
What I 🤍:
✍️ Poetic, Beautiful Writing
📝 REAL Love Letters
🕰️ The Gilded Age
💕 Love at First Sight
💪 Allies for Women's Rights
🥊 Emotional Punch
What a story! This has the makings of a movie! 🎥 I just adored Mary's writing along with all the facts and research she put into making this as realistic of a story as possible. When reading this, I was in awe how different 'falling in love' was back in the late 1800s. The process was so heartwarming and sweet. Be prepared though! This story has an emotional ending, and I would recommend reading this blind! (Don't research these two ahead of time because you will spoil their story!) 😉
Prince's Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Passion: 🔥🔥 (Kisses and One Closed Door)
Read If ➡️: You adore a love story and historical fiction.
Read 📅: Anytime of Year
One part that threw me off was the pacing. Sometimes several chapters would be within one day, while all of a sudden you jumped six months. I assume this is due to missing information, so the author wanted to keep their story as authentic as possible. (So she didn't just add fluff). If you love historical fiction, the backstory of how Presidents became to be and TRUE LOVE, this story is for you!
🙏 Huge thank you to St. Martin's Press and Mary Calvi for a physical and digital ARC of this book.
🌟 If a Poem Could Live and Breath comes out February 14th! 🌟
(My review will be posted soon to my Instagram page @lifewithprinceman.)
Have you ever been so captivated by a TRUE love story, that you KNOW their love will be told over and over for generations to come? The story of Theodore Roosevelt and Alice Lee is one I didn't know much about, but now I will never be able to forget it. In 'If a Poem Could Love and Breath,' by Mary Calvin, readers can experience what it's like to fall in love with one's soulmate.
📝 In 1878, Harvard student, Teddy Roosevelt, is discovering his own path and what his future will entail. Until he lays eyes on socialite, Alice Lee, and everything changes. Alice wants to be more than a woman who's expected to marry She wants a chance at an education that only men are allowed to have. What unfolds is one of the greatest love stories between one of America's presidents and a woman who was destined to change history in the United States.
What I 🤍:
✍️ Poetic, Beautiful Writing
📝 REAL Love Letters
🕰️ The Gilded Age
💕 Love at First Sight
💪 Allies for Women's Rights
🥊 Emotional Punch
What a story! This has the makings of a movie! 🎥 I just adored Mary's writing along with all the facts and research she put into making this as realistic of a story as possible. When reading this, I was in awe how different 'falling in love' was back in the late 1800s. The process was so heartwarming and sweet. Be prepared though! This story has an emotional ending, and I would recommend reading this blind! (Don't research these two ahead of time because you will spoil their story!) 😉
Prince's Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Passion: 🔥🔥 (Kisses and One Closed Door)
Read If ➡️: You adore a love story and historical fiction.
Read 📅: Anytime of Year
One part that threw me off was the pacing. Sometimes several chapters would be within one day, while all of a sudden you jumped six months. I assume this is due to missing information, so the author wanted to keep their story as authentic as possible. (So she didn't just add fluff). If you love historical fiction, the backstory of how Presidents became to be and TRUE LOVE, this story is for you!
🙏 Huge thank you to St. Martin's Press and Mary Calvi for a physical and digital ARC of this book.
🌟 If a Poem Could Live and Breath comes out February 14th! 🌟
(My review will be posted soon to my Instagram page @lifewithprinceman.)
February 13, 2023
We start this journey in 1884, the present for Theodore Roosevelt in this story.
We then go back in time to 1878 and meet Alice Lee as she's eavesdropping on a conversation involving her cousin Richard Saltonstall. The debate is about allowing women to attend Harvard and it's a bit heated. It's not until one of the participants mentions old maids that Alice says something. She asks why aren't there old bachelors? Her cousin Rose interrupts at that point and Richard informs them of the coming arrival of one of his Harvard Mates, Theodore Roosevelt.
From the moment Theodore sees Alice he is smitten. This book will take us from that moment through the ups and downs, illness, engagement and marriage.
I felt as though I was walking those streets, taking tea and even breaking the rules with Teddy and Alice. The letters when they are apart are fun, uplifting and laced with a touch of longing and humor.
I love the way the past comes to life. From the parlors in Massachusetts, to the drawing rooms of New York City, and gardens of Long Island estates we see the families meet and navigate the relationship.
I could feel Alice's horror at discovering Teddy's hobby and his dismay at her reaction that causes him to relinquish it. As well as his determination to win her over afterward.
There's also betrayal from Alice's mother with regard to her education. A shame since Alice was most opinionated and outspoken.
There's Teddy's journey from Harvard to the NY Senate, and on to be President. With all his travels out west during this time highlighted as well.
Mary Calvi has brought this story and the Gilded Age to life for me. While tragic, this is a love story for all time.
We then go back in time to 1878 and meet Alice Lee as she's eavesdropping on a conversation involving her cousin Richard Saltonstall. The debate is about allowing women to attend Harvard and it's a bit heated. It's not until one of the participants mentions old maids that Alice says something. She asks why aren't there old bachelors? Her cousin Rose interrupts at that point and Richard informs them of the coming arrival of one of his Harvard Mates, Theodore Roosevelt.
From the moment Theodore sees Alice he is smitten. This book will take us from that moment through the ups and downs, illness, engagement and marriage.
I felt as though I was walking those streets, taking tea and even breaking the rules with Teddy and Alice. The letters when they are apart are fun, uplifting and laced with a touch of longing and humor.
I love the way the past comes to life. From the parlors in Massachusetts, to the drawing rooms of New York City, and gardens of Long Island estates we see the families meet and navigate the relationship.
I could feel Alice's horror at discovering Teddy's hobby and his dismay at her reaction that causes him to relinquish it. As well as his determination to win her over afterward.
There's also betrayal from Alice's mother with regard to her education. A shame since Alice was most opinionated and outspoken.
There's Teddy's journey from Harvard to the NY Senate, and on to be President. With all his travels out west during this time highlighted as well.
Mary Calvi has brought this story and the Gilded Age to life for me. While tragic, this is a love story for all time.
February 9, 2023
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Mary Calvi for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for If a Poem Could Live and Breathe coming out February 14, 2023. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This book follows the love story between young Theodore Roosevelt and Boston beauty Alice Lee. It contains many real letters between them, many never before published. Many historians believe Roosevelt’s early years to be the most pivotal in making him the future president. Those years turned him into a man of action and cemented his legacy.
At Cambridge in 1878, it’s the era of the Gilded Age. Women are making strides in society. Alice Lee is determined to break away from the norms of her mother’s generation. A native of New York, Harvard student Teddy Roosevelt, is on his own journey. But when Teddy meets Alice, his life is forever changed for the better. If a Poem Could Live and Breathe is a delicate portrait of first love, the heartbreak of loss, and how overcoming the worst of life’s trials can guide one to achieve more than one could ever imagine.
This is the second book I’ve read by Mary Calvi. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. I love that she uses historical letters in her novels. It just brings a greater sense of truth and honesty to the writing to know these are real accounts of these people. I’ve learned a lot about Teddy Roosevelt during his presidency, but not a lot about his early life. I know he had a daughter named Alice who was unconventional for the time. So I was definitely interested in this book. I loved it! It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, but the ending was definitely tragic. Sometimes it’s hard to think of early presidents as real people with real feelings and relationships. Teddy Roosevelt just seems like such a legend. But this story made him seem more relatable, more of a real person who experienced his first love.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romances based on real people!
This book follows the love story between young Theodore Roosevelt and Boston beauty Alice Lee. It contains many real letters between them, many never before published. Many historians believe Roosevelt’s early years to be the most pivotal in making him the future president. Those years turned him into a man of action and cemented his legacy.
At Cambridge in 1878, it’s the era of the Gilded Age. Women are making strides in society. Alice Lee is determined to break away from the norms of her mother’s generation. A native of New York, Harvard student Teddy Roosevelt, is on his own journey. But when Teddy meets Alice, his life is forever changed for the better. If a Poem Could Live and Breathe is a delicate portrait of first love, the heartbreak of loss, and how overcoming the worst of life’s trials can guide one to achieve more than one could ever imagine.
This is the second book I’ve read by Mary Calvi. Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres. I love that she uses historical letters in her novels. It just brings a greater sense of truth and honesty to the writing to know these are real accounts of these people. I’ve learned a lot about Teddy Roosevelt during his presidency, but not a lot about his early life. I know he had a daughter named Alice who was unconventional for the time. So I was definitely interested in this book. I loved it! It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, but the ending was definitely tragic. Sometimes it’s hard to think of early presidents as real people with real feelings and relationships. Teddy Roosevelt just seems like such a legend. But this story made him seem more relatable, more of a real person who experienced his first love.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romances based on real people!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2023
I was interested to read more about Alice Lee, but the writing glossed over their lives. It was written from such a generic place, that I know no more about either of them than I did before. Neither character comes through as an idiosyncratic person, they are just breathy lovers who find their way to one another. Not engaging. Not enough depth.
February 9, 2023
Theodore Roosevelt never did any thing half measure. When he first met Alice Lee he was a goner. He worked ardently to win her love.
I’ve always found their love story compelling and tragic so when I got approved for this book I was overjoyed.
Calvi effortlessly captures the lyrical love between the two. I was not aware any letters still existed, having believed TR destroyed all of them. However, the author cites many of them in the book which exude more passion and love than the gushiest greeting card.
On Feb.14th, 1884, TR became a widower and an orphan. I don’t think he ever recovered from Alice’s death. I think he buried his heart with her, despite his second marriage and family.
Alice was very spirited which she imbued in her adventurous daughter.
Highs and lows, utter joy and desolate sorrow.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the advance read.
I’ve always found their love story compelling and tragic so when I got approved for this book I was overjoyed.
Calvi effortlessly captures the lyrical love between the two. I was not aware any letters still existed, having believed TR destroyed all of them. However, the author cites many of them in the book which exude more passion and love than the gushiest greeting card.
On Feb.14th, 1884, TR became a widower and an orphan. I don’t think he ever recovered from Alice’s death. I think he buried his heart with her, despite his second marriage and family.
Alice was very spirited which she imbued in her adventurous daughter.
Highs and lows, utter joy and desolate sorrow.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the advance read.
February 6, 2023
A historical fiction book that takes a look at Theodore Roosevelt and his first love Alice. Calvi looked at old love letters and poems they wrote for this book. Through the letters you can see the love they had for each other.
Theodore Roosevelt is a young man at Harvard when he meets the love of his life. Alice is a young woman who loves to read and learn. She dreams of attending a college but it is 1878 and women aren't allowed. Roosevelt loves Alice's mind.
I always enjoy reading a historical fiction book that I learn things from. It was in the late 1870's when women were finally allowed to attend Harvard. While most books on Roosevelt deal with his later life, this takes a look at his childhood and young adult life. Through the book you see his love of nature. I learned why he had this love, and am thankful that has President he gave us our national parks.
Publishes February 14, 2023.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the Kindle Version of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
🙃 Happy Reading 📚🙃
#netgalley
#stmartinspress
Theodore Roosevelt is a young man at Harvard when he meets the love of his life. Alice is a young woman who loves to read and learn. She dreams of attending a college but it is 1878 and women aren't allowed. Roosevelt loves Alice's mind.
I always enjoy reading a historical fiction book that I learn things from. It was in the late 1870's when women were finally allowed to attend Harvard. While most books on Roosevelt deal with his later life, this takes a look at his childhood and young adult life. Through the book you see his love of nature. I learned why he had this love, and am thankful that has President he gave us our national parks.
Publishes February 14, 2023.
Thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for the Kindle Version of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
🙃 Happy Reading 📚🙃
#netgalley
#stmartinspress
January 28, 2023
If A Poem Could Live and Breathe by Mary Calvi. The story was beautiful I never heard that Teddy Roosevelt was such a romantic. But the letters he wrote Alice were wonderful. I loved when they went on the nature trail to see the birds. How sad to loose your mother and your wife on the same day Valentines Day.
January 16, 2023
If A Poem Could Live and Breathe is a sweet, poignant and heart crushing story about the beautiful and brief romance and marriage between Teddy Roosevelt and Alice Hathaway Lee. Author Mary Calvi includes many of their letters written back and forth evoking a special tenderness.
Teddy was immediately besotted with Alice when they first met as teens. Alice was unusual in her independence and beliefs in gender equality of the era. When Teddy went to university the two exchanged letters which grew more frequent and impassioned as their relationship progressed. Their marriage was to be short lived as Alice died of undiagnosed kidney failure after the birth of their daughter. Sadly, Teddy's mother died the same day. Grievously stricken, he did not allow the mention of his beloved first wife's name in his presence during his lifetime. He did marry again and had more children and became the president of the United States.
The story is written with gorgeous prose and tugged at my heart. Not only is it heartfelt but also fascinating and informative. The power of love and grief is stunning. I also enjoyed reading about the close relationship between Alice and her dear cousin.
Historical Fiction fans who wish to become immersed in a true love story and learn more about history, do add this to your list.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this marvellous book.
Teddy was immediately besotted with Alice when they first met as teens. Alice was unusual in her independence and beliefs in gender equality of the era. When Teddy went to university the two exchanged letters which grew more frequent and impassioned as their relationship progressed. Their marriage was to be short lived as Alice died of undiagnosed kidney failure after the birth of their daughter. Sadly, Teddy's mother died the same day. Grievously stricken, he did not allow the mention of his beloved first wife's name in his presence during his lifetime. He did marry again and had more children and became the president of the United States.
The story is written with gorgeous prose and tugged at my heart. Not only is it heartfelt but also fascinating and informative. The power of love and grief is stunning. I also enjoyed reading about the close relationship between Alice and her dear cousin.
Historical Fiction fans who wish to become immersed in a true love story and learn more about history, do add this to your list.
My sincere thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this marvellous book.
January 18, 2023
Title: If a Poem Could Live and Breathe
Author: Mary Calvi
Genre: Adult Historical Fiction
Format: eARC
Series: NA
Star Rating: 3 stars
A special thank you goes to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for giving me a copy of this book. Please know that this does not influence my rating or thoughts on the book itself.
tw: misogyny, sexism, use of the word cripple, death during childbirth, illness
When I went on my hiatus while I was pregnant, St. Martin’s Press still sent me galleys for arcs via email. It’s something I really appreciated and it made me so incredibly happy. I absolutely love St Martin’s Press! This was one of those books that they sent me during my hiatus. I happened to see it downloaded on my kindle and I was in between books so I decided why not give it a shot. I normally don’t read about presidents but I figured why not give it a shot. It’s a rule that I read anything that St. Martin’s Press sends me and this one was no exception.
This book wasn’t too bad. I was pleasantly surprised. It didn’t blow me away or anything. But I adored the love story between Teddy and Alice. Teddy is just a little cinnamon roll and all I wanted to do was protect him from all the bad in the world. He’s so loyal and loving. I also appreciated how progressive Teddy was. He wanted women in college during a time when women were seen as wives and homemakers. He was so supportive of Alice and her dreams.
I don’t really have a lot to say about Alice. She was slightly one dimensional. I did enjoy how progressive she was. We all love a woman in STEM. I also appreciated that even though she had an unidentified illness, she tried to not let it stop her from achieving her dreams of attending college. And boy, did my heart break for these two. It sounds like they had a beautiful, one-of-a-kind love. It made my heart so warm and happy.
Overall, I did like the story but wasn’t totally blown away. Maybe it was the big words that were used throughout the book. Good thing I read this on my kindle so I could look up any words I didn’t know. The book was written to feel like it was written in the early 1900s which was great but I couldn’t understand a lot of the words without looking them up. But like I said, beautiful love story but I wasn’t blown away by it.
Author: Mary Calvi
Genre: Adult Historical Fiction
Format: eARC
Series: NA
Star Rating: 3 stars
A special thank you goes to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for giving me a copy of this book. Please know that this does not influence my rating or thoughts on the book itself.
tw: misogyny, sexism, use of the word cripple, death during childbirth, illness
When I went on my hiatus while I was pregnant, St. Martin’s Press still sent me galleys for arcs via email. It’s something I really appreciated and it made me so incredibly happy. I absolutely love St Martin’s Press! This was one of those books that they sent me during my hiatus. I happened to see it downloaded on my kindle and I was in between books so I decided why not give it a shot. I normally don’t read about presidents but I figured why not give it a shot. It’s a rule that I read anything that St. Martin’s Press sends me and this one was no exception.
This book wasn’t too bad. I was pleasantly surprised. It didn’t blow me away or anything. But I adored the love story between Teddy and Alice. Teddy is just a little cinnamon roll and all I wanted to do was protect him from all the bad in the world. He’s so loyal and loving. I also appreciated how progressive Teddy was. He wanted women in college during a time when women were seen as wives and homemakers. He was so supportive of Alice and her dreams.
I don’t really have a lot to say about Alice. She was slightly one dimensional. I did enjoy how progressive she was. We all love a woman in STEM. I also appreciated that even though she had an unidentified illness, she tried to not let it stop her from achieving her dreams of attending college. And boy, did my heart break for these two. It sounds like they had a beautiful, one-of-a-kind love. It made my heart so warm and happy.
Overall, I did like the story but wasn’t totally blown away. Maybe it was the big words that were used throughout the book. Good thing I read this on my kindle so I could look up any words I didn’t know. The book was written to feel like it was written in the early 1900s which was great but I couldn’t understand a lot of the words without looking them up. But like I said, beautiful love story but I wasn’t blown away by it.
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