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Wetherholt #1
Wetherholt: A Novel
When Lissie Dairton heads to New York City to visit her aunt and uncle, her only regret is that her older sister Nett can’t come along. Her remedy is to write witty and insightful letters keeping Nett informed of her adventures in the big city—from dealing with their beastly aunt and refusing advances from a ghastly suitor to attending plays with heiresses and falling in love with a dashing Mr. Elwood.
From afar, Nett replies with her usual practicality as she tries to keep her flightier sister’s feet on the ground. But soon, Nett is swept up in her own adventure as she meets the brother of Lissie’s prospective beau. Levelheaded, caring, and sensible, the elder Elwood brother seems like the answer to all her dreams. But what at first seems like happiness becomes confusion as Nett’s almost-suitor begins acting stiff and distant.
Lissie remains convinced that she and her sister will marry the Elwood brothers, but Nett is uncertain. With family disapproval and the seeming disinterest from the elder brother, how can there possibly be a satisfactory end for everyone?
From afar, Nett replies with her usual practicality as she tries to keep her flightier sister’s feet on the ground. But soon, Nett is swept up in her own adventure as she meets the brother of Lissie’s prospective beau. Levelheaded, caring, and sensible, the elder Elwood brother seems like the answer to all her dreams. But what at first seems like happiness becomes confusion as Nett’s almost-suitor begins acting stiff and distant.
Lissie remains convinced that she and her sister will marry the Elwood brothers, but Nett is uncertain. With family disapproval and the seeming disinterest from the elder brother, how can there possibly be a satisfactory end for everyone?
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2022
9 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 3, 2023
I can’t decide between 4 and 5 stars so I’m splitting the difference and saying 4.5 stars (5/10 hearts). I feel like I start at least half of my reviews saying “this was not what I expected,” but it’s always true. I’m apparently super bad at reading blurbs and remembering what they say…
I also start a lot of reviews saying “I didn’t know what to expect,” and that’s also very true. Apparently I am very pessimistic when it comes to expecting to love an indie book. (Even if I’ve loved like 95.9453% but, ya know…)
All that aside, the point is this book was a very pleasant surprise. I am very picky about historical fiction, but I found the author did a good job of it. I can’t remember ever being jolted out of the 1870s America setting. The epistolary style was so fun, and the writing style was very light and bubbly and casual, which made for a comfortable, cheerful read.
The characters were quite fun. I liked Nett best, since I related to her most, but Lissie was a nice girl. Darius was a great guy; I wasn’t crazy about Orrin—or rather, he kept making me grow crazy with his silence and back-and-forth behaviour—but he ended up making me respect him. Mrs. Elwood and Mr. + Mrs. Dairton were very nice, as was Uncle Ralph, and the villain made a very satisfactory villain. Brook was hilarious (especially with Mary) and while I hated Aunt Lilly and her daughter, Uncle Boyd was a nice old fellow—and Cornelius, Rachel, and the other servants were good sidekicks.
The plot was meandering and calm, but definitely hooked me. I was very sick when I read this, but I kept pushing through my headache and other bodily pain because I HAD to know what happened. I was very happy with how one good thing I’d been waiting for was all arranged early on, so I could focus on worrying about the second good thing, and I love how the author set that all up. (I know, I’m dreadfully vague, but… #spoilers.) I love all the everyday stuff that was added to the letters, and the comedy mixed with the seriousness. There wasn’t much of a message, but I loved how it was just a simple chronicle of life and showcased good, strong characters compared to bad, weak characters. It was a sweet, simple, book that made me happy and left me satisfied, and I’m eagerly awaiting the sequel. Also, I really like that cover—it’s so simple but satisfying. Really encapsulates the book’s feel!
Content: someone is said to have a mistress; a man is asked if he has illegitimate children.
A Favourite Quote: I learned how much Darius has been working and helping Orrin. It seems that he has taken on all of Orrin’s work as well as his own, and is still finding time to help Orrin and his mother. He still seemed just as cheerful as ever.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: I do believe he was going to ask how old you were, but suddenly changed at the last moment and asked how old St. Paul’s Chapel is. I replied I did not know, and we had a nice little chat about history. Then he suddenly said that he must be going and he hoped to see me again. “Why?” I nearly asked. “Because I love your sister,” he nearly answered. This has to be the reason, dear, dear, Nett. For why else would he bother speaking to me? I am not enough of an acquaintance for him to speak to me for propriety’s sake. Please do not tell me I am wrong, for that will depress me, and that shall depress you, and you do not want to be depressed on your birthday, do you?
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
I also start a lot of reviews saying “I didn’t know what to expect,” and that’s also very true. Apparently I am very pessimistic when it comes to expecting to love an indie book. (Even if I’ve loved like 95.9453% but, ya know…)
All that aside, the point is this book was a very pleasant surprise. I am very picky about historical fiction, but I found the author did a good job of it. I can’t remember ever being jolted out of the 1870s America setting. The epistolary style was so fun, and the writing style was very light and bubbly and casual, which made for a comfortable, cheerful read.
The characters were quite fun. I liked Nett best, since I related to her most, but Lissie was a nice girl. Darius was a great guy; I wasn’t crazy about Orrin—or rather, he kept making me grow crazy with his silence and back-and-forth behaviour—but he ended up making me respect him. Mrs. Elwood and Mr. + Mrs. Dairton were very nice, as was Uncle Ralph, and the villain made a very satisfactory villain. Brook was hilarious (especially with Mary) and while I hated Aunt Lilly and her daughter, Uncle Boyd was a nice old fellow—and Cornelius, Rachel, and the other servants were good sidekicks.
The plot was meandering and calm, but definitely hooked me. I was very sick when I read this, but I kept pushing through my headache and other bodily pain because I HAD to know what happened. I was very happy with how one good thing I’d been waiting for was all arranged early on, so I could focus on worrying about the second good thing, and I love how the author set that all up. (I know, I’m dreadfully vague, but… #spoilers.) I love all the everyday stuff that was added to the letters, and the comedy mixed with the seriousness. There wasn’t much of a message, but I loved how it was just a simple chronicle of life and showcased good, strong characters compared to bad, weak characters. It was a sweet, simple, book that made me happy and left me satisfied, and I’m eagerly awaiting the sequel. Also, I really like that cover—it’s so simple but satisfying. Really encapsulates the book’s feel!
Content: someone is said to have a mistress; a man is asked if he has illegitimate children.
A Favourite Quote: I learned how much Darius has been working and helping Orrin. It seems that he has taken on all of Orrin’s work as well as his own, and is still finding time to help Orrin and his mother. He still seemed just as cheerful as ever.
A Favourite Humorous Quote: I do believe he was going to ask how old you were, but suddenly changed at the last moment and asked how old St. Paul’s Chapel is. I replied I did not know, and we had a nice little chat about history. Then he suddenly said that he must be going and he hoped to see me again. “Why?” I nearly asked. “Because I love your sister,” he nearly answered. This has to be the reason, dear, dear, Nett. For why else would he bother speaking to me? I am not enough of an acquaintance for him to speak to me for propriety’s sake. Please do not tell me I am wrong, for that will depress me, and that shall depress you, and you do not want to be depressed on your birthday, do you?
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
March 18, 2022
Charming and entertaining, Wetherholt follows the adventures of two sisters as they navigate the world of romance, family, and growing up in 19th century New York. If you’re a fan of character-driven novels like Jane Austen's and epistolary novels like Daddy-Long-Legs, this book is perfect for you!
The characters and dialogue were really what made this book so delightful. While many of the characters seemed stereotypical and not all that complex, the author nailed their characterizations so skillfully that I felt as though I instantly knew them through their letters. Nett was the typical proper, mature older sister while Lissie was full of spunk and personality. I chuckled so many times at her clever quips!
Orrin and Darius were such fun to follow along with as well, and I enjoyed getting their point of view through their letters. My heart ached for poor Orrin as he tried to do the right thing and obey his father as best he could. I was happy that in the end, although it didn’t look quite like how he’d envisioned it in the beginning, he and Nett were able to be together. They were perfect for each other!
Even the side characters had a chance to shine. The eccentric Charrington sisters were hilarious, and Brooks’ mishaps added plenty amusement to the story. Even Mr. Dairton made me chuckle, especially with his letter to one particular Mr. Banning. (Trust me when I say it’s pure gold ;).
As far as the plot, it ended up being rather predictable and unimpressive for the most part, and I thought the story ended a little abruptly. I would have liked more closure to Orrin and Nett’s romance and see the characters really reflect on what they’d learned.
However, while this story felt somewhat cliché in its striking similarity to Jane Austen's novels, the author’s gift for bringing her characters to life on the page provides plenty of entertainment for the reader. It certainly won’t leave you bored!
The characters and dialogue were really what made this book so delightful. While many of the characters seemed stereotypical and not all that complex, the author nailed their characterizations so skillfully that I felt as though I instantly knew them through their letters. Nett was the typical proper, mature older sister while Lissie was full of spunk and personality. I chuckled so many times at her clever quips!
Orrin and Darius were such fun to follow along with as well, and I enjoyed getting their point of view through their letters. My heart ached for poor Orrin as he tried to do the right thing and obey his father as best he could. I was happy that in the end, although it didn’t look quite like how he’d envisioned it in the beginning, he and Nett were able to be together. They were perfect for each other!
Even the side characters had a chance to shine. The eccentric Charrington sisters were hilarious, and Brooks’ mishaps added plenty amusement to the story. Even Mr. Dairton made me chuckle, especially with his letter to one particular Mr. Banning. (Trust me when I say it’s pure gold ;).
As far as the plot, it ended up being rather predictable and unimpressive for the most part, and I thought the story ended a little abruptly. I would have liked more closure to Orrin and Nett’s romance and see the characters really reflect on what they’d learned.
However, while this story felt somewhat cliché in its striking similarity to Jane Austen's novels, the author’s gift for bringing her characters to life on the page provides plenty of entertainment for the reader. It certainly won’t leave you bored!
March 14, 2022
It’s been a long time since I have laughed so heartily over a book! I read this book in an evening and absolutely fell in love with it! In her debut novel, Marissa has created a sweet, charming story with warm, authentic conversations between two sisters and two brothers while infusing it with the perfect amount of humour!
Books such as this remind me just how much I love stories told through letters as it gives the reader a unique look into the character’s heart and mind.
One of my very favourite sections is the letters between Darius and Orrin debating about their respective sweethearts and which Austen heroine Orrin is most like…Elinor Dashwood or Elizabeth Bennett? His brother’s response is priceless. I just about died of laughter! Also, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Brooks; that boy’s antics kept me in stitches!
While some of the dialogue and writing style sounds more modern than expected for 1870, it doesn’t detract from the story in a distracting way.
The ending…I am glad I was alone because I loudly protested. I NEED ANSWERS!
Books such as this remind me just how much I love stories told through letters as it gives the reader a unique look into the character’s heart and mind.
One of my very favourite sections is the letters between Darius and Orrin debating about their respective sweethearts and which Austen heroine Orrin is most like…Elinor Dashwood or Elizabeth Bennett? His brother’s response is priceless. I just about died of laughter! Also, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Brooks; that boy’s antics kept me in stitches!
While some of the dialogue and writing style sounds more modern than expected for 1870, it doesn’t detract from the story in a distracting way.
The ending…I am glad I was alone because I loudly protested. I NEED ANSWERS!
Read
March 7, 2022In all honesty, the cover for this book was so PRETTY I agreed to read it and offer a short ‘n sweet review.
The format for Marissa Adams debut, “Wetherholt” is unique - it’s written as a series of letters between two sisters: Lissie, the younger sister, and Nett, the elder. Though apart, their adventures are connected through the two of them falling in love with a pair of brothers.
As someone who has older sister-figures in her life and communicates with them mostly through text messages that function almost as journaling, I was drawn to the style of the prose the author chose. Some people may not connect with it, but I liked the creative choice Adams made to weave the story between the two girls and their love lives. Her writing is simple and easy to follow, very much like classic diary entrees.
It’s rare to find a clean, Young Adult historical fiction novel, so if that’s your cup of tea then I can gladly recommend Wetherholt to you. ❤️
**I was given this book in exchange for an honest review**
The format for Marissa Adams debut, “Wetherholt” is unique - it’s written as a series of letters between two sisters: Lissie, the younger sister, and Nett, the elder. Though apart, their adventures are connected through the two of them falling in love with a pair of brothers.
As someone who has older sister-figures in her life and communicates with them mostly through text messages that function almost as journaling, I was drawn to the style of the prose the author chose. Some people may not connect with it, but I liked the creative choice Adams made to weave the story between the two girls and their love lives. Her writing is simple and easy to follow, very much like classic diary entrees.
It’s rare to find a clean, Young Adult historical fiction novel, so if that’s your cup of tea then I can gladly recommend Wetherholt to you. ❤️
**I was given this book in exchange for an honest review**
October 23, 2022
I received an ARC for this book, so here's my review!
Wetherholt is perfect for Jane Austen fans and a lovers of Historical Romance.
The story follows to sisters, Lissie and Nett as they send eachother letters everytime they're apart.
It was a very fun and light read, I loved every second of it! I had to force myself to put it down to do work!
And there were several instances where I burst out laughing!
I loved all the main four characters (Lissie, Nett, Darius and Orrin) and most of the side characters too.
So yeah, I'm glad I volunteered to read this book, because it was fantastic!
Content:
A side character gets shot, but it's not descriptive.
It's really a clean book, there's nothing else to mention in this section I think!
Wetherholt is perfect for Jane Austen fans and a lovers of Historical Romance.
The story follows to sisters, Lissie and Nett as they send eachother letters everytime they're apart.
It was a very fun and light read, I loved every second of it! I had to force myself to put it down to do work!
And there were several instances where I burst out laughing!
I loved all the main four characters (Lissie, Nett, Darius and Orrin) and most of the side characters too.
So yeah, I'm glad I volunteered to read this book, because it was fantastic!
Content:
A side character gets shot, but it's not descriptive.
It's really a clean book, there's nothing else to mention in this section I think!
March 19, 2022
SUCH a cute book!! I loved how easy it is to read. I got sucked in, I really did! It is light, probably a younger teen would find it perfect for their reading level.
The characters were such pleasantly-formed and well-rounded characters, it was so easy to fall in love with them.
I loved how straight romance this was, but it wasn’t physical romance. The plot was centered around the love interests but they weren’t constantly on each other. It was so refreshing to not be constantly cringing at the poorly written “his broad shoulders rippled through his shirt as he reached to pull me into his chest” type romance. It was smart romance, it didn’t rely on sex to make the book appealing.
I also loved how the format of the book was letters. You got to see situations from all sides. It felt almost like you got to know the story and each character because you got to hear everyone’s point of view.
All in all, I’m so excited for the sequel and I will be rereading Wetherholt multiple times before then.
The characters were such pleasantly-formed and well-rounded characters, it was so easy to fall in love with them.
I loved how straight romance this was, but it wasn’t physical romance. The plot was centered around the love interests but they weren’t constantly on each other. It was so refreshing to not be constantly cringing at the poorly written “his broad shoulders rippled through his shirt as he reached to pull me into his chest” type romance. It was smart romance, it didn’t rely on sex to make the book appealing.
I also loved how the format of the book was letters. You got to see situations from all sides. It felt almost like you got to know the story and each character because you got to hear everyone’s point of view.
All in all, I’m so excited for the sequel and I will be rereading Wetherholt multiple times before then.
November 17, 2025
One of my new to be favourite books.
I knew I would enjoy this book for multiple reasons:
1. It was said to have a sarcastic Austen vibe, which I adore.
It completely lived up to what I thought it would be, and I loved the side comments and banter, etc.
2. I adore epistolary novels/novellas/stories, etc.
This completely lived up to it, with each letter feeling long/short enough and not forced. It was really, really well done.
3. It had sibling relationships, which, as someone from a large family, I love and feel isn't shown a lot in fiction.
And those sibling relationships were suberbly done. Both the brothers and the sisters were amazing, and the cousin relationship was also super fun. (another of my favourite things. The characters were all really well done, and I wish we could have seen even more of Brooks.
(Antonette's name really tripped me up, and I first thought it was a typo meant to be Antoinette, but that was because English is my 2nd language)
I knew I would enjoy this book for multiple reasons:
1. It was said to have a sarcastic Austen vibe, which I adore.
It completely lived up to what I thought it would be, and I loved the side comments and banter, etc.
2. I adore epistolary novels/novellas/stories, etc.
This completely lived up to it, with each letter feeling long/short enough and not forced. It was really, really well done.
3. It had sibling relationships, which, as someone from a large family, I love and feel isn't shown a lot in fiction.
And those sibling relationships were suberbly done. Both the brothers and the sisters were amazing, and the cousin relationship was also super fun. (another of my favourite things. The characters were all really well done, and I wish we could have seen even more of Brooks.
(Antonette's name really tripped me up, and I first thought it was a typo meant to be Antoinette, but that was because English is my 2nd language)
April 8, 2022
It's so hard to write a story with only letters, but Adams did it splendidly! Not only do I feel that I know everything that took place, but everything in splendid detail as well. The whole time I was getting to know the two sisters' intensely unique personalities, as well as those of the other characters. The plot was wonderfully timed as well!
September 15, 2022
A very enjoyable read!
I love this genre and found it enjoyable. It's nice to have a book to read that did not have to rely on sex and violence to be entertaining.
I love this genre and found it enjoyable. It's nice to have a book to read that did not have to rely on sex and violence to be entertaining.
May 27, 2022
Marissa Adam’s Wetherholt is a delight for readers of all ages.
Wetherholt has some of the best elements of Jane Austen’s stories while neatly catering to the modern reader’s sense of humor and understanding. The character she creates are vibrant, funny, well fleshed out and a joy to get to know through their correspondence. I found her letter format ideal for multiple sittings, as you can finish a letter and return to the next one without losing the thread of the story if you only can manage to put this book down (I couldn’t!). To top off all of this, it’s also a clean romance novel, which is just about impossible to find these days. I have no reservations recommending this book to anyone and everyone. Perfect for those readers not quite ready to tackle the verbiage found in Jane Austen’s book, but who are also old enough to appreciate the masterful storytelling of a good romance.
Wetherholt has some of the best elements of Jane Austen’s stories while neatly catering to the modern reader’s sense of humor and understanding. The character she creates are vibrant, funny, well fleshed out and a joy to get to know through their correspondence. I found her letter format ideal for multiple sittings, as you can finish a letter and return to the next one without losing the thread of the story if you only can manage to put this book down (I couldn’t!). To top off all of this, it’s also a clean romance novel, which is just about impossible to find these days. I have no reservations recommending this book to anyone and everyone. Perfect for those readers not quite ready to tackle the verbiage found in Jane Austen’s book, but who are also old enough to appreciate the masterful storytelling of a good romance.
July 16, 2022
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I read this in two days over a roadtrip! It reminded me that I don't dislike all books comprised of letters, and now I'm ready to rewatch every Victorian period piece ever!
I read this in two days over a roadtrip! It reminded me that I don't dislike all books comprised of letters, and now I'm ready to rewatch every Victorian period piece ever!
March 9, 2022
If you enjoy Epistolary literature like Daddy-Long-Legs or The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, then I think you will enjoy this one too.
I sometimes hesitate to pick up a book that is all letters because the author has to be talented to keep my interest, but Miss Adams is exactly that. She has the kind of humor and descriptiveness that I love so much about Daddy-Long-Legs, yet she also has a bit of Jane Austenness in her style and content too.
Characters in a letter formatted story do tend to develop slower sometimes, but I love how distinct and unique the two sisters become. They each had their own personality and you really do get to know them through the letters they write to each other.
The cousin, Brooks, was great. The kind of kid that is always getting into mischief, yet is also the nicest of the family and just genuinely loveable.
At first I wasn’t sure what I thought of Darius. I was afraid he might end up not being such a great guy because all the happy, go lucky fellows tend to end up that way. Haha! But Darius grew on me so much and I think it’s because he was growing and developing as a character throughout the story. Certain trials pushed him to grow in maturity where he was lacking and I loved that humanness about him.
And of course, how can I not help liking Orrin. Yeah, he is a little like Mr. Darcy, but also not really at all. I loved his more quiet nature and I loved how his mother explains him as more emotional even though he tends to hide most of it.
I did feel as if the book kind of ended abruptly. I really wanted Orrin’s story to finish a little more completely, but there is a second book coming I think, so maybe that will give me some more answers.
Also, some of the side characters such as Bailey and Cornelius and even Noah. I just kind of fell in love with them all.
The story itself was also intriguing and fun to see unfold through the eyes of the letter writers.
So I really can’t think of anything negative to say about this book and am looking forward to the sequel.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
I sometimes hesitate to pick up a book that is all letters because the author has to be talented to keep my interest, but Miss Adams is exactly that. She has the kind of humor and descriptiveness that I love so much about Daddy-Long-Legs, yet she also has a bit of Jane Austenness in her style and content too.
Characters in a letter formatted story do tend to develop slower sometimes, but I love how distinct and unique the two sisters become. They each had their own personality and you really do get to know them through the letters they write to each other.
The cousin, Brooks, was great. The kind of kid that is always getting into mischief, yet is also the nicest of the family and just genuinely loveable.
At first I wasn’t sure what I thought of Darius. I was afraid he might end up not being such a great guy because all the happy, go lucky fellows tend to end up that way. Haha! But Darius grew on me so much and I think it’s because he was growing and developing as a character throughout the story. Certain trials pushed him to grow in maturity where he was lacking and I loved that humanness about him.
And of course, how can I not help liking Orrin. Yeah, he is a little like Mr. Darcy, but also not really at all. I loved his more quiet nature and I loved how his mother explains him as more emotional even though he tends to hide most of it.
I did feel as if the book kind of ended abruptly. I really wanted Orrin’s story to finish a little more completely, but there is a second book coming I think, so maybe that will give me some more answers.
Also, some of the side characters such as Bailey and Cornelius and even Noah. I just kind of fell in love with them all.
The story itself was also intriguing and fun to see unfold through the eyes of the letter writers.
So I really can’t think of anything negative to say about this book and am looking forward to the sequel.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest opinions.
March 18, 2022
Wetherholt has a distinct style and executes it beautifully. While the concept alone makes it unique, the beautiful writing style and intriguing storyline truly sets it apart as a remarkable read. While the style resembles the amazing works of Jane Austen, it does a great job differentiating itself. I'm definitely going to read it aloud to my family and heartily recommend it to anyone who enjoys witty writing, a clever style, and romantic intrigue.
October 23, 2022
I was really enjoying this at first. I just can't get info the whole story being just letters. I need to be lost into a story. Involved and into another world. The letters kept cutting off my mind over and over again. I think it is a wonderful story and having the story as letters is unique and great. I need to find a book to get lost in. The letters kept stopping me from doing that.
I would absolutely recommend giving this book a try though. I need to go and find an escape story.
I would absolutely recommend giving this book a try though. I need to go and find an escape story.
October 28, 2022
New York and New Jersey
No date given
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 leveled up to four.
Interesting take on a novel. The entire book is letters, mostly between four people: two sisters and two brothers. It was fairly amusing, and very clean.
I thought it was interesting that some of the letters were sent and received within two days. When I grew up it never took less than three days for letters to arrive by mail. Fast horses!
No date given
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 leveled up to four.
Interesting take on a novel. The entire book is letters, mostly between four people: two sisters and two brothers. It was fairly amusing, and very clean.
I thought it was interesting that some of the letters were sent and received within two days. When I grew up it never took less than three days for letters to arrive by mail. Fast horses!
June 2, 2022
My God, che noia mortale! Davvero, non c'è via di mezzo: questa storia asfittica, i cui personaggi vengono rappresentati tramite lettere più o meno 'vivaci' tra due sorelle, che confidano reciprocamente i loro 'sentimenti d'amore' per due fratelli, fa quasi rimpiangere le scene bollenti di sesso di autrici più scatenate. Quasi.
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