by Sarah | Dec 4, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
- What is your story?
I’ve known from the beginning that I didn’t belong in Louisiana, that my roots weren’t there, so I’ve always wanted to find my family. No one would tell me anything about them, or where I’m from. No one would explain why a heart was branded on my chest, or why my so-called Louisiana cousins didn’t like me. My story is that no one would tell me my story. Does that make sense?
- Who are you?
I’m a girl without a future. Until I can find out who I am, where I come from—who I come from–I have no future. I’m sure that sounds melodramatic to most of you but when you ask who I am—I have no answer for you. My name is Rayna Guilbeau. But is it really?
- Do you have a problem that wasn’t mentioned in the story?
No, I’m pretty open and transparent. Except … I have to admit I didn’t want to reveal too much to Trent Jones in the beginning. Why should I? No one has ever told me the truth so I didn’t think I could trust him either. Maybe in the beginning my problem was not trusting or maybe my problem was trusting too much. Read my story and decide for yourself.
- Do you embrace conflict?
Funny you should ask that question. I certainly embraced it in The Last Daughter, didn’t? I butted heads with conflict. In a way, I guess I created it.
- Do you run from conflict?
Isn’t there an old saying what doesn’t kill us makes us strong. When I think that Trent and I could have lost our lives because of the conflict I brought into our lives, my heart actually skips a beat or two. I realize we’re a lot stronger because we met conflict head on, and I learned a lot about Trent. I can depend on him. I don’t run from conflict, and neither does he.
- How do you see yourself?
Before my story was created, I actually saw myself as a nonentity: powerless, insignificant, non-existent. Now, after learning who I am, after meeting Trent Jones—after living through my story, I feel whole. Funny that meeting evil face to face, surviving evil, can infuse one with … well, life, I guess. New life.
- How do your friends see you?
I’ve never had friends. I went through school being the outcast because of the Louisiana ‘cousins’ I lived with. They blackballed me and I never understood why. Because I looked different? Because I acted strange? Because their parents told them my story? Who knows? Maybe that’s something I’ll tackle next. Wouldn’t that be interesting to confront my life and those family members in Louisiana now that I’ve embraced the horrors of my Oklahoma birth?
- How do your enemies see you?
I was compared to a stray cat. I was told he should have put me in a bag and tossed me in the river the way he did his sister’s kitten. How many daughters can say their father wished them dead?
- How does the author see you?
The author of my story loved me from the beginning. She infused me with much of her own strength, but a lot of her own fear and insecurity went into me too. My author made me more beautiful than I felt. Believe me, I argued with her, but she insisted I looked exactly like a young Angie Harmon. I think that’s hilarious. Sometimes I stare into a mirror and try to see what she sees. I still don’t see it. When she knew I was going to confront my father, she put me in a lovely, feminine sundress—one that would show him exactly what he’d done to me. When I walked down those stairs and Trent sucked in his breath, I knew it was the right dress to wear. And when my father saw me for the first time, when I saw the surprise cross his face, his eyes widen … I felt like the winner. Sure, his hurtful words, his cruelty was like a knife jabbing my flesh over and over again, but with my author standing with me—and Trent—I knew I’d come out on top. I just wish I didn’t have to suffer such loss.
- What, if anything, haunts you?
I keep asking myself if I could have done things differently. I’d yearned for my mother and father for years. I’d prayed for a family that would love me. I believe in happily-ever-afters but I guess we can’t have it all, can we?
- Has anyone ever betrayed you?
My parents. My author’s husband always asks, “If a child can’t trust her parents, who can she trust?” Is the answer no one?
- Have you ever betrayed anyone?
No. I work at being fair and honest and loyal to everyone. Even those who betray me.
- What was your childhood like?
I was raised in a small bayou town in Louisiana. I was told the family that raised me were distant relatives but I’m not sure they actually were. They didn’t act as if I was blood kin—they didn’t want me. Needless to say, my childhood wasn’t happy. I had one friend in seventh and eighth grade but she moved away. I never had another one. I moved into high school and kept to myself during those four years. It was easier being alone than having to explain myself or answer questions. My answer takes me back to your question about embracing conflict. Maybe I really don’t. Maybe I run from it.
- What in your past would you like to forget?
Nothing. I want to remember it all. I don’t want to forget anything. I can’t. I’ll replay my life over and over again until it finally makes sense.
- What in your past would you like others to forget?
There are no “others” in my life.
- Who is your true love?
Trent Jones. He says he fell in love with me the moment he saw me snooping around his house at midnight. I don’t know if I believe him but I love hearing him say it.
- Was there ever a defining moment of your life?
When I saw Wounded Heart, the three story house in Oklahoma City, advertised in that Louisiana magazine, I knew I was connected to it. I knew it held the story of my life. I should have known it was more than a coincidence, but I didn’t. I quit my job, packed up a few belongings and headed to Oklahoma City. I’d call that a defining moment because my life certainly did change.
- What is your most closely guarded secret?
I have no secrets any more.
- What is your most prized possession? Why?
My most prized possession—other than Trent Jones—is Tiva, my childhood doll. Some people think she’s cursed and she very well could be, because I feel safe with her. I guess that’s why she means so much to me; I like how I feel when I hold her. Safe and powerful.
- What one word best describes you?
Decisive.
- What is your first memory?
Looking into a pot of soup and watching a hand holding a spoon stir the liquid. I still don’t know who that hand belongs to; who was holding me?
- Any non-family member adults stick out in your mind? Who were they, and how did you know them? Why do they stick out?
I don’t remember any non-family members. I remember someone giving me my doll Tiva. All I remember is an arm, a white sleeve, a hand holding Tiva toward me. I only had eyes for Tiva.
- Who was your best friend when you were growing up?
Lauria was my best friend in seventh and eighth grade. She moved away. I heard my cousins say she was taken away from her parents because they were abusive drunks but I don’t know if that’s true. I still think of her and wonder.
- What is your fondest, childhood memory?
I went to Mardi Gras once and caught a lot of beads and candy. It was fun watching the parade and decorated floats. There were beautiful people dressed in bright colors. Everyone acted happy.
- What don’t you like about yourself?
I don’t think there’s anything I don’t like about myself. My author gave me confidence and drive. I make up my mind to do something and I do it. I seldom second guess myself.
- Do you think redemption is possible? If so, can anyone be redeemed, or are there only certain circumstances that can be? If not, why do you think nothing can redeem itself?
Of course, I think redemption is possible. Otherwise, how could I have faced my father?
Why would I have tried to have a relationship with him? How could I see him day
after day and listen to him berate me and call me names if I didn’t believe redemption is
possible. Anyone can be redeemed if they want to be. All they have to do is ask
forgiveness—pray—repent, accept love and forgiveness from God and the persons
they’ve harmed. Unfortunately, my father didn’t believe in redemption—or maybe he
just didn’t believe in me.
- Is it okay for you to cry? When was the last time you cried?
I cried every time I went to see my father. I’d cry each time I left him and walked back to the house. I could cry right now—thinking of him, remembering some of the horrible things he said to me.
- What is the thing that has frightened you most? Do you think there is anything out there that’s scarier than that? What do you think that would be?
I suppose I was most frightened when I realized how much my father hated me. And why. I still don’t fully understand it, and I’m sad to say my mother doesn’t have answers that make sense. There’s nothing scarier than your parents turning on you. Nothing. Thank God for Trent.
*~*~*~*
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Blurb:
Given away as a child, Rayna Guilbeau grew up with questions–questions about her real family and questions about how she ended up in Louisiana with a disfiguring heart branded on her chest. When she sees a sale ad for a house in Oklahoma City called Wounded Heart, she feels an instant connection. Somehow, the house holds the key to her mysterious past.
Trent Jones, an easy-going picker who’s always looking to make a few bucks, is the new owner of Wounded Heart, a three-story house filled with antiques and mystery. When an intriguing young woman shows up on his property at midnight, claiming she was born there, he knows his life is about to change.
On an emotional journey into danger, Trent and Rayna seek answers. But can Rayna put the past behind her and accept Trent’s unwavering love?
Excerpt:
“Rayna, I need to talk with you. Rayna?”
Rayna entered from the living area just as Trey reached the bottom of the stairs. “What’s wrong?” she asked. “Are you okay?”
He rubbed his forehead. “I need to talk to you about that doll.”
Rayna glanced toward a chair where she’d propped her old toy. “What about her?”
He motioned. “I did some research. She’s pretty old. Actually, she’s probably quite valuable.”
“I’m not selling her if that’s what you’re getting at. Honestly, Trent.” She turned from him and entered the room where the doll sat.
“No, let me finish.” He followed. “From what I can tell she’s been sold numerous times, landed in and out of pawn shops and doll stores. There’s been some very questionable happenings surrounding her.”
“What do you mean? How do you know?”
“Things happen. According to several collectors on the Internet…it’s almost like she causes things to happen to people that don’t like her. Or maybe don’t like you–or whoever owns her at the time.”
“That’s absurd. She’s a doll.”
He rubbed his head again. “Maybe a cursed doll.”
“She’s not cursed. Nothing has ever happened to me.”
He dropped his eyes to her chest.
She clasped her hand across her blouse and stared at him. “She didn’t cause that. How could she?”
“How do you know she didn’t? You have no idea how it happened or why.”
“I just know,” she yelled. “She was–” She stopped and squinted at him. “Trent, Trent, what’s wrong?”
*~*~*
AUTHOR BIO:
Jessica Ferguson is the author of The Last Daughter, a romantic suspense published by The Wild Rose Press. Her short story, If You Believe is part of Kathi Macias’ Twelve Days of Christmas series. Jess is co-editor of Swamp Lily Review, A Journal of Louisiana Literature & Arts and a staff writer for Southern Writers Magazine. She is the author of one Silhouette Romance, The Groom Wore Blue Suede Shoes, writing as Jessica Travis. Jess worked as assistant editor/writer/photographer for The Times of Southwest Louisiana, and her work has appeared in magazines and newspapers in Louisiana and Texas.
Follower her blog at http://jessyferguson.blogspot.com
Twitter: @jessyferguson
Facebook: Jessica Ferguson and Jessica Roach Ferguson
Pinterest: Jessica Ferguson
by Sarah | Oct 23, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
Come on in and sit down for a visit with Sara Alderson, an ordinary woman with an extraordinary talent. I love how down to earth she is, and I think you will too.
*~*
What is your story?
Do you want the short version? The weird talent that I don’t know why I have, and which I never asked for, keeps leading me into trouble, and sometimes it lands me in the hospital or nearly gets me killed. But I’ve been able to use it to help people and save lives, so I guess I can’t complain too much about it.
Who are you?
What time is it? If it’s between eight AM and five PM, I’m a doctor. At five, I become a chauffeur. From seven until nine, I’m a mother. From nine until bedtime, I’m a zombie. For a half hour after we get to bed, I’m a wife. When my brother Bob calls for advice on whatever their two-year-old is getting up to, I’m a sister. When Beth has had a stressful week at her job and she needs a sympathetic ear, I’m a best friend. When I’m at work and I haven’t had time to fix myself lunch and Mom brings me something to eat, I’m a daughter.
It sounds like I’ve got multiple-personality disorder, doesn’t it? Still, I wouldn’t change a thing about my life, and I guess ultimately that’s who I am: the woman who’s all of those things, and glad to be them.
Do you think the author portrayed you accurately?
I think so. Even when I’m doing something that’s reckless or stupid, or I’m having a really bad day, he puts me in a pretty sympathetic light. And while I wish he’d leave me alone when I’m – well, when I’m having “private time” with my husband, at least he has the decency to be very discreet in how he describes it. I shudder to think how that “Shades of Gray” woman would write about me, so I guess I should be thankful for small favors.
Do you have any special strengths?
I think most people would say my talent for dreaming – for stepping into other people’s dreams. But I’d say that it’s my compassion – I enjoy helping people, whether it’s patients coming to my office, or friends and family, or the people whose dreams I see. Brian, my husband, says that’s why I have the dreams in the first place, because even when I’m sleeping, I can’t help looking for people who are hurting or in trouble and reaching out to them.
Do you have any special weaknesses?
I can be pretty slow to realize things, especially dealing with interpersonal relations. I guess that comes from my childhood. I was always more interested in my microscope and my chemistry set than in playing with friends, or chatting on the phone or any of that. So sometimes I don’t notice things that are blindingly obvious to other people.
What are you afraid of?
Abusing my power, and hurting someone with it. I used my dreaming talent to help my godmother last year, but I had to interfere in her dream to do it. I was able to change her mind from the inside-out, and she had no idea that it was me. That’s such a dangerous power, and even though I only had good intentions, I could still have done horrible damage to her. I’m afraid I’ll find myself in a situation like that again, where I feel like I have to do it to help someone I love – and I’ll make things worse instead.
Who is your true love?
My husband. I knew it the first time I met him, too. I know that’s a cliché, but it’s really true for me – for us. Our eyes met, and that was it. I was done for.
Do you have any hobbies?
I wish I had time for some! Between my job, the kids and keeping up with everything, I barely have time to breathe most days. When I do have free time, what I want to do most of all is just sit down and rest – or, maybe, if I’m really lucky, take a nice, long, completely undisturbed bubble bath.
Name five items in your purse, briefcase, or pockets.
A small bag of lollipops (I’m a pediatrician, and I’ve got four kids. I’m NEVER without candy!); my stupid cell phone, which I really and truly hate having to carry around; the key to our safe-deposit box; a photo of my old dog, Lumpy (I know we’ve got a new dog, and I love her, too, but I still miss Lumpy and I always will); and a pocket calendar that I try to keep up to date (I know I should get some kind of electronic device to help me, but I really don’t like carrying around all those gadgets).
What is your most prized mundane possession?Why do you value it so much?
The emerald necklace Brian gave me for our first Christmas, only a few weeks after we met. He took the money he was saving up to buy a used car, and spent it to buy this beautiful necklace for me. It sets off my eyes perfectly, and that’s why he picked it out. It’s just symbolic of the love he has for me, and there’s nothing that could be more valuable than that.
What was your family like?
Growing up, my family was the best. My parents were so good to us, and good for us. They trusted me, and my brother, and they gave us plenty of responsibility – and also freedom. We’re really trying to do the same for our children.
I’ll admit that, as a kid, I didn’t get along all that well with my brother. I’m four years older, and at first I wanted to trade him in for a dog. But by the time we were both in college, either I matured, or he got less weird (maybe both) and we get along wonderfully now.
The only real regret I have about my family is that I only was able to know one of my grandparents. Both of my grandfathers died before I was born, and my father’s mother passed away when I was a baby, so it was only my Mom’s mother, Grandma Lucy, that I ever knew. My children are a lot luckier, they’ve got all four grandparents, and they ought to have them for a long time to come.
What is something you had to learn that you hated?
That sometimes, no matter my training, no matter how much I want to, there are some people I can’t save, and some pains I can’t ease. I learned that my first year of medical school, when my friend Janet’s mother passed away. I stepped into Janet’s dreams, and that’s how I found out how sick her mother was. And I had to carry that around, because I couldn’t very well tell Janet that I knew this secret she hadn’t told anyone. And, even worse, there wasn’t a thing I could do to help her, really. It was awful, but it was a lesson I had to learn.
What is more important – sex or intimacy? Why?
Intimacy, obviously. What’s the point of having sex without it, anyway? How could it be any good, if you don’t love the person you’re making love to?
What one act in your past are you most ashamed of? What one act in your past are you most proud of?
Ashamed of? The time I broke into one of my teachers’ offices back in medical school. I had a good reason – he was one of several people I suspected of trying to poison another teacher at the school. I’m not so much ashamed of the act, though. What I’m ashamed of is that I didn’t tell Brian before I did it. I knew he’d try to talk me out of it, and I just didn’t want to hear that.
Proud of? It’s not one single act, but I’d say it’s the way our kids have turned out so far. I’ve really tried to be honest with them in every way possible, and to give them the same values I was raised with, and I think I – well, Brian and I together – have succeeded so far.
What trait do you find most admirable, and how often do you find it?
Is an ounce of prevention really worth a pound of cure? Which is more valuable? Why do you feel this way? As a doctor, I have to say that, yes, prevention is definitely the way to go. But it’s true in every part of life. I’ve seen it with my kids. Taking the time to tell them the truth, and to explain things to them rather than just saying “no” or “because I said so” has made such an impact on them. We’ll see if that keeps up when they’re teenagers, though!
What one word best describes you?
Compassionate, I hope. I think it’s true, anyway.
How do your friends see you?
As someone they can rely on, and who won’t judge them, no matter what’s happening. And also as someone who’ll do whatever it takes to help them when they’re in need. And finally, as someone who, sometimes, will call on them in turn, because I always seem to find myself in situations where I can’t solve the problem alone and I need a lot of help, sometimes in very strange ways.
How do your enemies see you? Enemies? I hope I don’t have any! But if I do, they ought to see me as someone who won’t let them get away with hurting the people I care about, no matter what it takes to stop them.
What, if anything, haunts you?
The night I spent in jail, after my (former) office manager stole my prescriptions pads and sold them, and I was arrested for it. I was violated, and I don’t want to talk about it any more than that. That memory still haunts me, and the feelings of total powerlessness haunt me, and the fact that I let myself give in to all of that haunts me most of all. I threw away hope, and after only a couple of hours, I began to believe what they wanted me to believe – that I was worthless and deserved to be treated the way I was.
*~*~*~*
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“Oh, God! We can hurt each other. Whatever we do to each other in the dream, we’ll do it to ourselves for real…”
When her own dreams are visited by a mysterious woman in a red dress, Sara realizes she has something she never expected: a counterpart, someone outside her family who shares her talent to see other people’s dreams.
When the woman in red keeps showing up in other dreams as well, leaving ruined lives in her wake, Sara knows she has something she never imagined: a nemesis.
Now, Sara must track the woman in red down in the waking world, before she’s forced to fight for her life in her dreams…
“Waking Dream” is the exciting fifth novel in the “Dreams” series.
J.J. (James) DiBenedetto was born in Yonkers, New York. He attended Case Western Reserve University, where as his classmates can attest, he was a complete nerd. Very little has changed since then.
He currently lives in Arlington, Virginia with his beautiful wife and their cat (who has thoroughly trained them both). When he’s not writing, James works in the direct marketing field, enjoys the opera, photography and the New York Giants, among other interests.
The “Dreams” series is James’ first published work.
http://www.writingdreams.net
http://www.amazon.com/author/jjdibenedetto
excerpt:
As Sara watches her husband, her heart swells with pride as the Air Force delegation – including, Sara now notices, a General – enthusiastically follows along with him. But in the midst of his success, Sara suddenly feels a chill, as though someone opened a window and let a draft of cold air into the room.
But there is no window open, and even if there were, this is the middle of summer; any air that came in would be hot and stagnant. Sara turns, and a glass door leading out into the hallway is closing, although she didn’t see or hear it open.
Just for an instant, Sara thinks she sees someone just as they disappear down the hallway and around a corner – a woman, she’s sure. But she didn’t get a good look; the only thing she can recall for sure is the color red. Red shoes, and a red dress.
As she turns her attention back to Brian and his meeting, she wonders why he’s dreaming about a woman in a red dress, who has to run away the moment Sara notices her…
***
Where’d she go? There was someone, I wanted – needed – to know who she was, where she was going.
It was a dream. Brian’s dream. And there was a woman, a woman in a red dress. He was dreaming about a woman. A woman who isn’t me…
No, that’s not right. That’s insane. Brian has never, ever given me the slightest reason to be jealous, and he never will. Except – I was there, in his dream, and he had to hide her from me. Right? I was watching him give his presentation, everyone in the room was completely focused on it, they were all sitting there, mesmerized.
And then the door to the meeting room opened. Someone inside the room opened it. That woman, with her red? – yes, definitely a red dress. And red shoes, with at least two-inch heels. Not Brian’s type at all – nobody is his type, except me.
But she wasn’t sitting at the table. There were a bunch of his co-workers, all men, all wearing suits. And there were a bunch of Air Force officers, and they were all wearing their uniforms. Nobody in a dress at all.
Until there was. And nobody else seemed to notice her. Nobody even looked up for a second to see who was opening the door.
“Brian?” I grab his shoulder, shake him awake. It’s three-thirty in the morning, but I have to know.
“Wha?”
“You were dreaming. Just now.”
“Let’s take a quick break,” he mutters. He’s still mostly there.
“Brian!”
He turns to me, his eyes slowly focusing. “Quick break,” he murmurs again, then he finally realizes he’s not at work. “Sara?” Fear suddenly spreads across his face. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing,” I say, too quickly. Now he looks terrified. “Just – you were dreaming. Can you remember?”
He rolls over onto his back, staring up at the ceiling. “I was – uh, in a room, a big glass room. Giving – I was doing my presentation. You know, the one I’ve been working on.”
“I know. I was there.” Now the fear vanishes, and it’s replaced by puzzlement. “Do you remember who was there?”
“Didn’t you see? Sara, what’s going on?”
“Humor me,” I say softly, running a hand through his hair, trying to calm him – and myself.
“Uh – just my team. Rick and Alex and Joe and Dave. And there were four – no, five people from the Air Force. General Kelley was there, and the rest of them were his aides.” He sits up, and so do I. He’s staring hard at me. “Sara, I don’t understand.”
Neither do I – except that I think I do, and I’m afraid to say it. It’s impossible – but it’s impossible for me, too, and I can still do it. “There wasn’t anybody else?”
“No. That was it, just who I said.”
I’m staring hard right back at him, holding his eyes. “You’re sure? Nobody else? Not a woman in a dress, a red dress?”
He has no idea what I’m talking about; I can see it all in his eyes. “No. Why would you think…?” His jaw drops. “No. You don’t mean what I think you mean?”
“I saw her, but you didn’t. Nobody else in the room did, either. The same way that you didn’t see me, and neither did anybody else. The way nobody ever notices me.”
We’re both silent for a moment, then we speak the same words, exactly in unison: “Oh, my God…”
by Sarah | Oct 16, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
I’m visiting with Nox in the cozy front room of his house in Ribeauville, a small town in Francia, where he and his wife, Salena work for the lord of the town. Nox is relaxing in a simple wooden chair by the circular hearth.
Did you have a happy childhood? “I did,” he says slowly. “I grew up on a tenant farm not far out of town. Although I had to work hard, it was a decent, simple life. I also had a good friend nearby. Grant and I managed to get into all sorts of mischief together.”
You seemed a little doubtful about the answer to that question. “My childhood ended abruptly at age 14 when my parents and little brother died of an illness that ravaged our whole community. Theophilus, the Lord of Ribeauville, brought me here to work as his houseboy, though the housekeeper seemed to want me to stay in the stables instead of interfering in her domain.” He smiles at the recollection, then sobers. “That was a difficult time.”
I can only imagine how hard that was. Do you think the loss affected you? He nods. “There is no doubt. I am very reluctant to get attached to people. Salena is the only person I’ve really taken a risk with and we had to reach a crisis to make me take that jump.”
How did you meet Salena? “On the one hand, I’ve known Salena all my life since she is Grant’s little sister. But, on the other hand, in a way it feels like I met her for the first time when she caught me in a moment of dejection at a spot overlooking my childhood home. When I saw her on the road, I knew almost immediately it was her, yet she was so cautious with me. I did not think I looked like an untrustworthy fellow and here was a pretty young woman acting as if I was going to murder her where she stood! Only later did I come learn that some of her neighbors considered her something of a witch, so she is understandably cautious around people in general.”
Why would they think she is a witch? “Mostly because of one hateful woman who twisted a series of coincidences to turn the community against Salena and her family.”
Were you immediately attracted to her once she realized you were a friend? “Of course. She is beautiful, with her golden eyes that other people see as a sign of evil in her. What nonsense!” he says dismissively. “The most touching thing she did that day was to remember my family.” His voice softens. “She told me a story about my brother Diem that I had not known. It was so wonderful after all these years to have someone talk about them, to be with someone who remembered.”
Have you renewed your friendship with Grant? “Absolutely. It was partly through him that Salena and I kept being thrown together, not that either of us minded.”
Did he mind? Nox laughs. “He was shocked. Like most men, he did not think of his sister as attractive or available, and he considered me part of the family, so to see the two of us together went against his grain for a while. His wife helped at a few critical times with keeping him out of the way.”
Did anyone else encourage you? “Theo gave me some good counsel. And his wife, Lily, also.” He laughs again. “I don’t think Lily could have planned all the little actions that fed my interest in Salena during a particular visit to town. If she did, she should plan battles for the emperor.”
What happens now? What does your future hold? “We are settling into married life, and Salena into her new work with the Lady of Ribeauville. We hope for children, though the idea of another precious person in my life makes me sweat. I just want Salena to be safe so we can enjoy decades of happiness together. Keeping her by my side is the only thing that worries me any more.”
*~*
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The night is dark. The moon is bright. She brings his heart into her light.
The fifth book in the Evolution Series and a 49,000 word historical romance novella.
A vicious neighbor uses a series of coincidences to label Salena as the local moon-charmer, making her an outcast in rural Francia. When Salena encounters her brother’s childhood friend, Nox, out on business for the Lord of Ribeauville, she fears he will accept the locals’ tales about her, especially since they relate to the death of his family a decade before. He is, instead, as charmed by her as she is by him.
Nox’s sympathy for Salena evolves into affection in spite of his strict rule against close ties with people. Afraid to risk another loss like that of his youth, he abruptly ends their relationship, unaware that Salena has already been downtrodden by her father denying her request to venture farther out into the world.
A threat to Salena’s family prompts her to run away in the hopes of protecting those she loves while forging a new path for her life. Too late, Nox discovers that she has also run away with his scarred heart.
The books in the Evolution Series in chronological order are Unbidden, Second Love: A Short Historical Romance Story, Redeemed, Vain, and Little Witch. The Evolution Series is set what we now know as France and Bavaria in the years after Charlemagne’s death.
*~*~*
EXCERPT from Little Witch: Historical Romance Novella
“I remember them,” Salena blurted.
Nox inhaled sharply but she could not stop her words now that the thought was in her head. “Your mother always took pity on me because you boys did not like playing with a girl. I remember Diem used to spit at me to try to make me go away. He could spit farther than you or Grant.” She gave a sad laugh. “He always wanted the two of you to himself. One day when you hid from him he was stuck with me and he taught me to spit. You should have seen his face when I spit all the way from the door to the side of the road.”
Nox’s face was still averted, his eyes trained on the house. “I can picture him.” His voice wavered.
She should not have spoken of his family. “It must be very difficult for you,” she said.
He cleared his throat. “What must be?”
“To, um, to have people to miss for the rest of your life.”
His head pivoted abruptly so he could look at her. For a brief, excruciating moment, all the shields a person carried against others dropped away from him. She saw him as he must have looked on the day his last family member died, leaving him devastated and terrified and alone.
“I am sorry,” she blurted. “I should not speak of those times. My memories must just make it harder.”
He lifted a hand to stop her. “No.” He cleared his throat again. “I liked your story. Diem really taught you to spit?” he asked cautiously.
“He did, though I have not practiced for years, I assure you.”
He chuckled. “It is nice to meet someone who remembers and, maybe, understands.”
“I can’t claim to understand,” she demurred. “I have been very lucky.”
His lips turned up in a thin suggestion of a smile. “I have been lucky, too, in a way,” he said, clearly hoping to put her at ease again. “Part of my luck has been my job with the Lord of Ribeauville. He would expect me to get on with it.” He brushed his hands together. “Do you know of the property in dispute?”
“Yes, of course.”
“Would you be able to take me to it? I mean, if you think your parents would not mind.”
*~*
If you want to keep in touch with Jill Hughey she blogs at http://jillhughey.blogspot.com, she is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jillhugheyromance, and she tweets @jillhughey.
by Sarah | Oct 2, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
- What is your story?
Gwyn: My story is one of a dedicated scientist who trusted the wrong people and ended the world as we know it. Yes—I (inadvertently) caused the zombie apocalypse.
Sorry about that.
If it helps, I’m working to fix it, and I’ve made good progress on solving the problem.
- Who are you?
Goodness. That’s a difficult question. If you had asked Rafe, he would have tossed something flippant your way and moved on. But I find myself unable to do that, although I envy him the ability.
Who am I? Well, I am more than the person I was when my story began in Hero for Hire. Then, I was a scientist. That encompassed the important pieces of who I was. Now? I’m a foster mother to a pack of boys. I am a lover to the most amazing man I’ve had the privilege to know. I’m a terrible cook, with a family who eats my unappetizing offerings and pretends that they like them. I’m the destroyer of the world as we knew it. I’m trying to become restorer of the world, one infected at a time.
I’m Gwyn.
- Do you embrace conflict?
I do not. Before everything went badly, I used to avoid conflict at all costs. It’s part of what led the events that caused the end of our world. Now? I don’t like conflict, and I certainly don’t seek it out, but I do not run from it, and when necessary, I can fight as hard as Rafe and our boys. Some things are worth the battle. I’ve learned that.
4. How do you see yourself?
I’m strong. I never knew that about myself before the world ended. Now I do. I’m strong, and I am capable of so much more than I ever thought possible.
- What, if anything, haunts you?
As you can probably guess, I really regret having trusted Miriam. I really regret not acknowledging her jealousy, and protecting against what she might do. My failure to stand up to her back at the beginning caused the deaths of so many. There are people that I will never have the chance to cure, and it could all have been prevented. I try not to think about it too much, because that much guilt can paralyze, and I still have a job to do. I still have a world to restore.
- Has anyone ever betrayed you?
Miriam didn’t do me any favors. But the people in my life now? I’d trust them with my life. I do actually, every day.
- Have you ever failed anyone?
I failed everyone. The apocalypse was my fault—at least in part. I’m trying to mitigate the damage now, but I will never make that right.
- Who was your first love?
Is it pathetic to say Rafe? I dated off an on before him, but he was the first person to really see me. And he was the first person who really touched me, who reached that secret place inside that we all have but never intentionally let people into.
- Was there ever a defining moment of your life?
When I left Rafe to go back to the lab, that moment was a defining one for me. I knew what I was choosing, and I did it anyway, because the reward was worth what I was giving up.
- What one word best describes you?
Determined.
- What don’t you like about yourself?
I’m awkward. My family adores me, and they don’t mind, but I know that socially I am awkward. I wish I were warm, and open and easy to know like Rafe is. But I’m not, and I suppose that is okay. Because I do like who I’ve become.
- What is more important – sex or intimacy? Why?
Intimacy. What is the point of sex without it? Just two people satisfying a base urge? For me, to let someone have that sort of access to me and who I am requires intimacy. Otherwise I just can’t do it.
- Do you think redemption is possible? If so, can anyone be redeemed, or are there only certain circumstances that can be? If not, why do you think nothing can redeem itself?
I certainly hope so. I’m working on that redemption every day.
*~*
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One day her prince would come…disguised as a zombie-killer. Having been disgraced and tossed out by her own scientific community, Gwyn is convinced she can develop a cure for a SuperVirus that has turned the Infected into zombies. By pure luck and determination, she has survived on her own for years, but while out scavenging, a clash with the local zombies leaves her potentially infected. Now, running out of time, she needs help and takes a chance on a hero for hire.
Rafe loves the apocalypse. Since the world went to hell, everything’s come up roses for him. Having procured a mansion in the Hollywood hills, adopted a slew of homeless boys and one cantankerous but useful Doc, Mr. Charming is benefiting from the nasty zombie infestation. His job? Killing the bastards, which he considers fun anyway. Gwyn Snow needs Rafe Charming to help retrieve her research from the Paragon Pharmaceuticals lab, also known as Zombie Central. Believing she can yet save the world, Gwyn makes Rafe question what’s right and what’s worth the fight.
CONTENT WARNING: Prince Charming, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves as you’ve never seen them before. Tales From Beyond the End, #1 A Lyrical Press Fantasy Romance – Once Upon”
*~*
Excerpt:
“I was on the vaccine team,” she said. “The team leader was a woman named Miriam Armstrong. She’s a brilliant woman, but her aspirations clouded her vision, so when I came up with a workable vaccine, she stole my formula. She re-engineered it, thinking she could make improvements. I complained, but no one was interested. Because she was the team leader, she took credit for the vaccine. When the vaccine was distributed and administered, my best guess is that it reacted with the live virus to cause mutation.”
“That’s just shitty.”
“It appears there are a couple of levels of mutation, producing a higher level of functioning in the infected individual, much like what you described–strong, fast, cunning, violent and with some heightened senses.”
“Right. But there are also some who are just lumbering meat sacks. I think the smarter ones eat those when they can’t find anything fresher, so to speak.”
She shuddered. “The point is, I can fix them. I can still cure them. That’s what I’ve been working on for the last eighteen months, but I need my journals at the lab to reconstruct my original work.”
I cocked a brow at her, displaying my best you’ve-got-to-be-shitting-me expression.
“You really think you can cure those things out there?”
“I know I can.”
She pushed the hair out of her face again, looking me in the eyes. The conviction shining there and echoed in her voice, almost made me believe her. But, I had no faith those animals would ever be human again. The point was she believed they could be cured. Now I had a much better grasp of the guilt and pain that ate at her conscience.
Not only was she gorgeous, she was smart, she was vulnerable and she had an adorable awkwardness that did crazy things to me. I’d never met a woman like her. Ever. I tried not to, but I fell for her, just like that. This was probably not the reaction she was looking for–it sure as hell surprised me–but being the go-with-your-gut kinda guy I was, I did the only thing I could in the circumstances.
“What the hell,” I said, and leaned in to kiss her. The shock when our lips met sent a jolt down my spine, settling somewhere just south of my belt buckle. I couldn’t stop the growl in my throat as I took her deeper. My hands reached up, fingers tangling in the hair at her nape. I gave into the need and pulled her body into mine. She kissed like she didn’t know how, tentative, almost dainty. I smiled against her lips at her sharp intake of breath when I introduced my tongue into her mouth.
God, she tasted so sweet it made me dizzy. She mewed a little sound, returning my kiss, convincing me she had actually done this before. When I placed my other hand at her lower back and pulled her against the enthusiastic bulge in my jeans, she broke the kiss. She took a step away, a shocked look on her face.
“What’s the matter, Princess, too much for you?”
About Merissa
I love to read, write, drink strong coffee and eat dark chocolate–not necessarily in that order and sometimes all at once. I live in the deep South, with my very own superhero, and my three minions. Together, we attempt to take over the world.
When not otherwise occupied with planning world domination, I’m a voracious reader and adore happy endings. I write what I love to read, so I write romance and stories with romantic elements to them.
My novella Hero for Hire, written jointly with the fabulous Margaret Bail is due for release on October 1, 2013. It’s a Paranormal Romance featuring a campy post apocalyptic take on the Snow White tale, and is the first in our Tales from Beyond the End series.
I love feedback and messages, so please feel free to contact me at www.facebook.com/MerissaMcCain,
twitter.com/MerissaMcCain/
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7199113.Merissa_McCain,
http://triberr.com/MerissaMcCain
or via email at merissa.mccain@gmail.com
*~*
About Margaret
Hi. I’m Margaret Madigan. Or M.K.D. Bail, depending on what literary genre we’re talking about!
I live in the vast Northern Plains where it’s quiet and mostly empty, and very conducive to letting my imagination run wild. As a result, I have difficulty focusing on just one genre of storytelling. Of course, I love romance, so I write a lot of that, but I also write science fiction, and dabble in other genres just for the fun of it.
When I’m not writing you’ll find me in a college classroom teaching English, or working as a literary agent for an amazing agency…and of course enjoying time with my family.
Thanks for visiting my page. Like Merissa, I’d love to hear from you, so feel free to contact me with comments, requests, feedback, or messages at
Twitter.com/mmadiganauthor/
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7242698.Margaret_Madigan
https://www.facebook.com/mmadiganauthor
by Sarah | Sep 11, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
What is your story?
I am a 975-year-old vampire from Scandinavia. Turned into an immortal after being mortally wounded, my psychic ability survived the change…only now I can only see the futures of other vampires. On a quest to find my fated mate after a vision I had of her, I scoured the earth for nearly 200 years to find her.
Who are you?
My given name was Steafedn Hlífsteinn. Over the years, I chose to make my name more modern. I now go under the name Stefan Lifsten.
Do you think the author portrayed you accurately?
I think Alexandra did an exceptional job in portraying my inner thoughts…and desires.
What makes you happy?
Finding Josephine after 200 years of searching for her. It is a long time to look for your other half.
What are you afraid of?
I am afraid of little; however, I worry about the safety of Josephine above all else.
What in your past had the most profound effect on you?
Turning my maker over to the Council for her misdeeds. My part brought upon her final death. There is still a part of my that mourns her and second guesses my choice that day.
Name five items in your purse, briefcase, or pockets.
Cell phone, wallet, receipts, keys…and a krona.
What is more important – sex or intimacy? Why?
Before I met Josephine, I would have said sex. Prior to finding her, females served two purposes. Since I set my mate, sex and intimacy are one in the same.
What trait do you find most admirable, and how often do you find it?
Honesty. And I find it very little in immortals or humans.
How do your friends see you?
A protector. It is my job to keep my friends and family safe.
How do your enemies see you?
*Grins* A threat.
*~*~*~*
Odyssey (The Vampire Destiny Series Companion Book 1)
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Book Blurb
In this first Companion Piece to The Vampire Destiny Series, we follow our hero, Stefan Lifsten, from the time of his human death, through his early years as a vampire until he meets Josephine Anderson, his fated mate.
We’ll travel along with him during his initial struggles to accept his immortality, his betrayals by friends and foes, and experience his joy of meeting the woman from his vision…experiencing Fated and Illusion through his eyes.
This book is a Companion to The Vampire Destiny Series and will feature missing scenes and character information. While this book can be read as a stand-alone, it is highly recommended that you read Fated and Illusion to fully experience this book.
*This book contains sexy vampires, graphic language and highly erotic scenes that are not for those 18 and under or are of the faint of heart. Consider yourself warned.*
Excerpt from Odyssey
Bitter tears of defeat fell from my eyes and streaked down my temples, dampening my filthy, bloody hair. I was losing more than my life tonight; I was leaving behind the love of my existence. She was more than human, that much I knew. She had been a part of my life as long as I could recall, my first memory of her as a young man of 16. As of late, I had grown restless. I no longer wanted to walk this earth without her at my side. She had invaded my every waking thought, bewitching me with her presence. Was this my penance for my impatience? For my insolence?
My warm exhale blew out into plumes, spreading into the dark night. The haze from my breath was testament to the bitter chill of the night. Slipping in and out of consciousness, I did not have much time left.
It was time for me to let go of this life and everything I cherished.
“Steafedn.”
Her voice pulled me from the abyss and surrounded me like a lover’s embrace. It
took a moment for her face to come into focus, my vision clouded and blurry. Brilliant eyes like emeralds stared back at me. Even in my weakened state I could see the sadness and desolation that had taken residence there. She reached for my hand, her skin warm against my cold, dying flesh.
“I cannot lose you.” My words sounded empty and weak. I refused to beg for my life; even it was possible for her to grant me a second chance at living. Attempting to reach for her, I found that I no longer had the strength to move. She stared down at my failing, mortal body and tears rimmed her vibrant irises.
“Steafedn,” she sobbed desperately. Her free hand rose to stroke my dirty, blood soaked hair with trembling fingers. “There is nothing I can do, my love. Not now. It is too late. I failed you.”
My breath rattled in my chest as I stared into her eyes. She was flawlessly beautiful, ethereal with her pale skin and long hair that framed her face in wild, copper waves. Her hand clutched mine tightly, her skin like the finest silk.
I inhaled in a deep breath, the frigid air filling my lungs. It was a struggle to keep my eyes open and focus on her. “There was nothing you could have done to prevent this end for me. Shoulder no blame for my recklessness. If this is to be our farewell…our final goodbye, I offer thanks to Freya that she granted me this final reward. Know that I will love you for an eternity, min gudinna.”
She lowered her lips against mine, offering me a gentle kiss of farewell. She did not move and spoke to me softy. “There will always be a part of me with you, though you may not remember. I will be the wind in your hair, the whisper in your ear, the love you will bury deep in your soul. And one day when our fates align, we will be together again. You will lose your way; however when the moment is right you will see me. You will find me, Steafedn.”
Her cryptic words confused me. Did she not comprehend what was happening? I was dying a mortal death, yet she was speaking as if I would live. She was speaking in circles, her words perplexing. “Isophina?”
“You will not understand now. There is no time to explain.” She sighed and glanced up at the moon that hung high in the night sky. Her fingers drifted over my grime-covered face, her eyes tracing the contours of my skin as if committing it to memory. “I wanted this to happen another way, yet I was given no choice. This was the only way to save you, my love. Please forgive me.”
She paused for a moment. Her mouth pressed to mine with surprising force and her hands gripped both sides of my face. Our eyes met and she lowered her chin to her chest. Her voice was a whisper as she spoke again, “Remember me, Steafedn. I ask for nothing more than that.”
She disappeared into the darkness, leaving me alone in my final moments. My eyes closed and I cried out a final request, surprised at the hoarseness and desperation in my voice. “Let me die. Release me from this suffering.”
***
About Alexandra Anthony
Alexandra Anthony is the independent author of two romantic, erotic book series:
The Vampire Destiny Series and The Dark Hart Chronicles. Both feature sexy vampires to die for, steamy love scenes and follow the twists and turns of her character’s many adventures. Her books are not for the faint of heart.
She was most recently featured in USA Today in an article by Joyce Lamb titled, “It’s time to put some Paranormal Activity into your Reading” and was featured under Self-Published/Indie Authors for the release of Ascend (The Vampire Destiny Series Book 4). Her paranormal, erotic romance Tempted (The Dark Hart Chronicles Book 1) was nominated for Best Erotica in the 2013 Orangeberry Hall of Fame Contest.
Ms. Anthony is from the Midwest (Ohio to be precise) and was bitten by the lure of the vampire at an early age. She chose to take up writing and put her own twist on these mysterious immortal creatures…making them day-walkers that could easily blend in with their human counterparts. She also enjoys weaving Old Norse and Greek Mythology into her stories, adding a bit of realism into escapism.
Coming up on the horizon for Alexandra will be the second book in The Dark Hart Chronicles, Rapture. It is slated for a late fall/early winter release.
by Sarah | Aug 28, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
What is your story?
I thought my life was set. My career as a financial analyst was secure, and I was engaged to be married, living in New York. However, it all fell apart when the market crashed and I lost my job. Thoughts of all I gave up for my job, the betrayal I felt at being discarded washed through me. I couldn’t continue in that line of business; I wanted something less demanding. Not sure what I wanted to do I began researching different careers. But when Porsha, my fiancé, found out she flipped and left me. There went my chances of starting a family; all the time I invested in our relationship was gone. So, that’s when I decided, if I couldn’t have a family of my own, I’d care for someone else’s.
Do you embrace conflict?
Well, I definitely don’t run from conflict. I feel like I handle conflict on an as needed basis. If I’m the one that needs to confront it, I do. However, if Mia needs to go off the handle, it’s my job to ground her. Mia is very protective of her family and strong headed, but I’m also a protector by nature. We balance each other and take care of each other and that means all conflict.
What in your past would you like to forget?
I think past mistakes are important to our futures. They teach us things and, hopefully, in the end make us stronger. Regretting things gets us nowhere really and it is an opportunity to learn and grow. So, I wouldn’t change anything from my past.
Who was your first love?
Kristen Montgomery, we were in the ninth grade. At the time, I loved her so much, well, as much as a thirteen year old could. We dated for two weeks before she left me to go out with some kid, Chaz. My heart was broken for ages.
Who is your true love?
My true love and soul mate is Mia Balducci. From the moment we met, I knew she’d be a part of my life forever.
Was there ever a defining moment of your life?
Yes, the moment I lost everything I thought I wanted and decided to become a manny. It all brought me here.
What one word best describes you?
Loyal
Who was your best friend when you were growing up?
My brother was/is my best friend. We’ve always been really close, and never had any animosity toward each other.
What is the perfect romantic date?
I’m not sure if it’s the perfect date, but it’s a great one. For our anniversary, I’ve scheduled to have limo pick us up at home and take us to an Italian restaurant in Long Beach. After the romantic dinner we will be taken to the canals in Venice, which look just like the canals in Venice, Italy. Once there we’ll get to take a gondola ride with some wine and wonderful singing. Then I’ll take her home and ravish her.
What is more important – sex or intimacy? Why?
Being a guy, you all probably think I’d say sex. Well, yes, I think sex is important, but without intimacy there’s no relationship. Sex without intimacy is what people who don’t love each other do. And a relationship without intimacy is a friendship. We need the intimacy more than anything and the rest will come and bring it all together.
Is it okay for you to cry? When was the last time you cried?
Men don’t cry. But Mia thinks she saw me cry when we watched The Notebook. I wasn’t, really.
*~*~*~*
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Blurb:
Mia Balducci misses her childhood days and yearns for the big, Italian family that she left behind in small town Massachusetts. At the tender age of sixteen, Mia moves with her bachelor father to Los Angeles, but no matter how many years pass, it never becomes home to her. The years spent living with her father aren’t easy, especially since she can’t stop thinking about what she once had. Her enrollment in the University of Southern California promises to bring exciting changes to her life, but Mia winds up with big problems instead. When she runs into an old friend from her old hometown of Winthrop, she gets swept up in nostalgia, and she soon loses herself in a quickly-progressing romance. When the fantasy falls apart, she is left to raise her precious little girl, Lucia, on her own. The demands of Mia’s work schedule and Lucia’s needs increase, and their lives become increasingly hectic. It is soon clear to Mia that she needs help. Luckily, her life-saving cousin saves the day and brings the mother and daughter a male nanny – their new “manny.”
After losing his high-pressure job on Wall Street, Dominic Roberts wants to follow his dreams to have a family. He’s already one fiancée down, and there are no likely prospects for another. In order to find the family he so desperately wants, he finds himself getting into the manny business. Since he is fully qualified to provide child care and is eager to leave New York City behind, his sister-in-law is able to land him a job in California working for his first client – the beautiful and intriguing Mia Balducci.
Will Lucia like the new man in her mother’s life? Will Mia? And will this new trio discover the happily ever after they all so desperately seek?
Excerpt:
I had never seen this man undressed before. Standing in my room, feeling shy all of a sudden, I watched while he removed his clothes and unveiled his beauty. In all honesty, I didn’t know what to expect. I had seen glimpses of him, small parts here and there, while we groped like kids on the sofa during our movie nights. When his shirt went over his head, I savored every toned muscle and found myself eager to touch every part of him. Anxiety ran through me while my eyes bounced over every bare piece of his skin. I felt the instant need to skim my fingers through the light scatter of hair on his chest that disappeared into his jeans. I wanted to taste the salt on his skin when I licked the “v” at his hips.
The confidence I had in the living room faded when we faced each other. I wanted to close the distance, to touch him, but my nerves set in. My mind was running with different, crazy thoughts. What if he didn’t like my body? I had a baby, after all. What if he didn’t find me experienced enough? What if I couldn’t please him? I steeled myself and began to undress alongside him. My body shook with nerves and anticipation, and I couldn’t wait to feel him. My body begged for fast and rough, but my heart yearned for soft and sensual.
“Whoa, not so fast, baby. I want to do that,” he said in a playful tone that relaxed me and made me giggle.
Standing back, I watched when he let his pants drop to the floor so I was able to appreciate his strong legs. They were long, with defined muscles covered in black wisps of hair. He placed his pants on the chair behind him, and I caught a look at his tight ass in his dark gray boxer briefs. As a full package, Dominic was complete perfection. Hell, even in parts he was beautiful. When he turned back toward me, he looked right into my eyes, and I let out a shaky breath. My eyes were sucked in by his, and I watched while they changed color, turning darker. In the look we shared, our souls just spoke—connected. It was the kind of moment I had read about in fairy tales; it was not something that happened in real life, but it happened now. It happened for us.
Author Bio:
Jennifer Garcia’s (aka Forbes Arnone) love of travel began when she went to the West Coast to visit her father at the age of three. Her home until she was sixteen was a small coastal town near Boston. She currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two sons, and two dogs.
Her lifelong love for reading and writing was put aside for many years while she made her way in the world and nurtured her young family. Even though she is older, and life never seems to settle, she’s finding her way while attending college full-time in pursuit of a B.A. in English Literature. She also runs a business, and is still caring for her family. Believing she can do it all, with the help of her family, she worked on her first novel during the late hours of the night while balancing the rest of her life during the day. Her hard work paid off, as her first novel, My Mr. Manny, will be published August 27, 2013.
Find Jennifer on:
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