Welcome to another Book Review Tuesday. I’m delighted to share my review of D. Wallace Peach’s latest release, a gem of a novel that combines seafaring adventure with superb world-building and engaging characters. I love this author’s way with words, her prose both lyrical and gritty.
BOOK BLURB:
The merrow rule the sea. Slender creatures, fair of face, with silver scales and the graceful tails of angelfish. Caught in a Brid Clarion net, the daughter of the sea witch perishes in the sunlit air. Her fingers dangle above the swells.
The queen of the sea bares her sharp teeth and, in a fury of wind and waves, cleanses the brine of ships and men. But she spares a boy for his single act of kindness. Callum becomes the Ferryman, and until Brid Clarion pays its debt with royal blood, only his sails may cross the Deep.
Two warring nations, separated by the merrow’s trench, trade infant hostages in a commitment to peace. Now, the time has come for the heirs to return home. The Ferryman alone can undertake the exchange.
Yet, animosities are far from assuaged. While Brid Clarion’s islands bask in prosperity, Haf Killick, a floating city of derelict ships, rots and rusts and sinks into the reefs. Its ruler has other designs.
And the sea witch crafts dark bargains with all sides.
Callum is caught in the breach, with a long-held bargain of his own which, once discovered, will shatter this life.
MY REVIEW:
Yes, this novel is classified as fantasy, but it reads like a nautical adventure wrapped in folklore and myth. Merrows control the sea between Brid Clarion and Haf Killick. After losing her daughter to the nets of Brid Clarion, the Sea Witch, queen of the Merrows, allows none but the ferryman to cross the water between the two kingdoms—one prosperous, the other sinking into ruin. Even then, such crossings of the deep require payment in blood by human sacrifice.
While Callum’s life is tied to the merrows and both kingdoms, the rulers of Brid Clarion and Haf Killick are wary of each other. This sets the stage for political intrigue, plotting and counter-plotting that grows ever more intricate as the story progress. The twists and turns are as slippery as nets cast into the sea. Just when I thought the course steady (and I could catch my breath), another plot thread veered in a direction I didn’t expect.
Characters are skillfully drawn, so that even while despising the actions of the villains, I understood the motives. As with any book by this author, the world is visually and exquisitely depicted. I felt as though I was on the open sea, could taste the salty brine of the deep and feel the roll of Callum’s ship. The writing is both lyrical and gritty—not an easy combination to pull off—bringing every scene to vibrant life.
I was especially fascinated by the merrows. From the Panmar, the Sea Witch, to her fickle, playful, and cunning subjects who craft bargains with men, these are creatures beautiful and deadly. Once again, the author pens descriptions like liquid silver. There were passages I paused to read over for the sheer beauty of the words (sometimes darkly picturesque, sometimes resplendent and dazzling).
Callum’s character and those closest to him each stole my heart (even one that had me waffling on if I should like him or despise him). And when everything came together in the concluding pages, I couldn’t ask for a better ending. Once again, D. Wallace Peach proves her mastery with conflicted characters and fantastical realms. Highly recommended!
Great review, Mae 🙂 I huge fan of this story too!
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Great to hear, Denise. I was enthralled from start to finish!
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Thanks so much for stopping by Mae’s to read her review, Denise. And I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the story. ❤ Hugs.
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I haven’t read it yet, but I know this one’s waiting for me on my Kindle. Diana is an outstanding writer.
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She certainly is Pete. Everything I’ve read by her is exceptional, and I think this might be my favorite yet!
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Thanks for checking out Mae’s review, Pete, and for the kind comment. I hope that you enjoy the book when you get there! Have a lovely day and stay cool! ❤
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This one’s waiting for me on my ereader. Now your review has made me even more eager! Congrats to Diana. Thanks for sharing, Mae 🙂
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You’re in for a treat, Harmony. The Ferryman and the Sea Witch is Diana at her best!
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Thanks so much for the lovely comment, Harmony. I hope that when you crack this one open, you enjoy the adventure. Happy Reading, my friend. ❤
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I loved this book too, Mae… and this is one beautiful review!
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Aww, thanks for the compliment on the review. And I’m thrilled for your added testimony on how great the book is. Diana really outdid herself!
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I am surrounded by such talented writers!
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🙂
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Thank you so much for reading. I was tickled to see Mae’s review here, and I appreciate the kind comment. Have a wonderful day, be well, and Happy Reading. ❤
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And to you, Diana…
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I’m reading this now and I’m captivated. Great review.
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Hi, Chris. That’s wonderful to hear! Thanks for stopping by to share. I think this is one of Diana’s best—and that’s saying a lot given what a gifted storyteller and talented writer she is!
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Thanks so much for the comment, Chris, and I’m glad you’re enjoyed the read. I’m doing a happy dance. Have a wonderfully bookish day. 🙂
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Just the weather for it here, too, like a squall from the Deep.
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Crazy weather, Chris. We’re so dry and hot here, we could use a squall!
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Even the blurb is beautiful! I can tell I’d love the writing style. This is one to add. Thanks for sharing your lovely review, Mae. ❤️
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I think you’d love this book Mischenko. Glad it’s going on your reading list. It’s a phenomenal tale and the writing is superb!
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Thank you for checking out Mae’s wonderful review, Mischenko. I hope that if you decide to give the book a try, you enjoy the adventure. Happy Reading. 🙂
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Thanks! I’ll definitely keep it in mind. ❤️
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Great review, Mae. I’ve heard good things about this book and your review makes me even more intrigued.
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It’s a fantastic tale, Joan. Diana always tells a great story, and she really hit new levels with this one. It reads like a sea yarn twined with folklore and legend. I think you’d enjoy it.
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Thanks for the wonderful comment, Joan. Mae’s review and comments have me smiling for sure. I’m glad you’re intrigued! Thank you for stopping by, and Happy Reading!
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Good review, Mae! I keep hearing wonderful things about Diane’s book.
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It’s a fabulous story, Priscilla. I love everything Diana does, but I think this one is my favorite to date.
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Thank you for the lovely comment, Priscilla. Mae certainly made my day with her review and post. If you give the story a try, I hope you enjoy it. 🙂
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This book was a true treasure. An absolute delight. I can’t say enough good things about it. I’m glad to see another glowing review online. I wish Diana nothing but the best. She deserves it.
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She certainly does, Staci. I loved seeing your review for The Ferryman and the Sea Witch last week, and I’m pleased to add my enthusiasm for such an outstanding novel. She is such a gifted storyteller and exceptional writer.
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The two of you have me blushing, and my face hurts from smiling. Thank you both for the wonderful reviews and posts. I couldn’t be more grateful. Happy Reading!
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💕
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All the best to Diana. Your review certainly piques my interest.
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Craig, you would positively love the sea-faring action in this one. I thought of you when I was reading it.
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Thanks for the visit, Craig. I was reading your first Lanternfish when polishing this one up. It was fun to be reading a sea adventure at the same time as writing one. No root monsters here though. Ha! Have a great day and Happy Reading.
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Sometimes the mind just wants a sea adventure.
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Ha ha. Yup!
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I can’t wait to read Diana’s latest book. It has called to be from the time she first started talking about it. I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it so much! Wonderful review! ❤️
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I thoroughly suspect you will love this one, Tessa. Lots of detailed world building, fantastical elements and deft writing!
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Thanks, Lady Tessa! I hope that when you get to this one, you enjoy it. Mae’s review has given it a wonderful boost and I couldn’t be happier. Have a lovely day and Happy Reading!
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Well said, Mae! I really loved this book.
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Thanks for adding your cheers to it as well, Jacqui. It really is awesome!
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Thanks, Jacqui. I’m delighted that you enjoyed the book. And thanks for stopping by Mae’s to peruse her review! Have a wonderful day, my friend. 🙂
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Fabulous review Mae. I agree with you, Diana’s prose is exquisite and yes, I too felt I was on the open sea. Congratulations to Diana.
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She really whisked me away in so many passages, Balroop. Between the nautical references and the descriptions of the merrows, I happily wallowed in her vivid descriptions. Thanks for adding your testimony for The Ferryman and The Sea Witch today!
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Thanks, Balroop, for checking out Mae’s review and for yours. I know the book is a bit dark at times, so I’m especially grateful that you enjoyed it. Have a lovely day, my friend, and congrats on your release!
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I cannot wait for this one to come up on my TBR list! I know I am going to enjoy it. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Mae! And a huge congrats to Diana!
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You’re in for an exquisite tale, Jan. I know you’ll love this one. Happy reading!
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Thanks for stopping by to read Mae’s review, Jan, especially with all you have going on these days. When you get to the book, I hope you enjoy it, and in the meantime, take good care of yourself. Hugs.
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Just finished reading this, MC. Not sure I could do a better review than yours!
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Aww, thanks, Noelle. I’m always pleased to spread the word about books that resonate with me. I’m glad that came out in my review!
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Thanks so much, Noelle. What a wonderful comment and surprise. I’m delighted that you enjoyed the read. Hugs galore. Doing a happy dance too. 🙂 Have a wonderful day, my friend.
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The book was spellbinding! And I will write a review…
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Thanks so much, Noelle! ❤ ❤ ❤
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This is a wonderful review. I got the feel of the sea, the trickery of politics and wheeling and dealing, and sympathy for Callum. It sounds remarkable!
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Absolutely remarkable, Judi, along with all those other items you mentioned. I devoured this one in short order!
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Thank you, Judi Lynn. Mae’s review touched on all the key parts of the book, which isn’t always easy to do. I’m glad you got a good feel for it. Thanks for stopping by and if you pick it up, I hope you enjoy the read. 😀
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Fantastic review Mae! I already have this on my tbr.
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Wonderful to hear, Kim. It held me spellbound from cover to cover.
BTW, NetGalley approved me for Nanny Needed. I’m reading it now, and riveted so far!
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Thanks so much for stopping by, Kim, to check out Mae’s review. I couldn’t be happier with her kind comments. I hope when this one rises to the top of the tbr pile, you enjoy it. Happy Reading!
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🤗
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Argh! 🤣
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Arrgh back at you. Lol. Thanks for reading Mae’s most awesome review! Happy Sailing. 🙂
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Thank you, it’s on my reader ready to go ⛵️
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Thanks for “diving” in!!
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I’ll take that as meaning my job is done here, Fraggle. 😉
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Indeed. I’m stopping reading your reviews! 🤣
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Heeeheee!
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Thanks so much for taking the time to read and for the wonderful review, Mae! I’m so glad you enjoyed the book, the characters, and the setting. And I’m thrilled that the end was satisfying after a sometimes bleak story. Thanks again for your kindness. Have a wonderful week and Happy Reading. 🙂
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You outdid yourself with this one, Diana. A perfect balance of adventure, intrigue, character relationships and masterful storytelling. I loved it and am delighted to share!
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Thanks, Mae. I’m so glad you enjoyed it and was honored by your kind comments here. 🙂
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Isn’t she amazing? Wonderful, well-deserved review, Mae. This would make an awesome movie!
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Thanks, Jacquie. Wouldn’t a move be fun… of any of our books. That would be a fantasy come true. Thanks for taking a swing through Mae’s review. Have a wonderful day and Happy Reading. 🙂
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Oooh, what a great idea, Jacquie. I can see Peter Jackson behind the director’s chair!
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Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful review, Mar. Congratulations to Diana.
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Thanks for the kind comment, John. I’m delighted with Mae’s review and so grateful to our community of writers for their support. Have a lovely day and stay cool. 😀
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😊
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Thanks, John. This one really resonated with me.
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😊
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Lyrical and Gritty happen to be one of my favourite couples, ha! I’ve added The Ferryman and The Sea Witch to my list, along with Cusp of Night, and look forward to them both. 😊
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Thanks so much for adding the book to your list! And you’ll enjoy Cusp of Night. I’m a big fan of Mae’s paranormal mysteries. Have fun and Happy Reading!
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You are welcome! I look forward to them both fondly.
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😀
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Oooh, a kindred spirit! I love that combo of lyrical and gritty myself. You’re going to love this one! And many thanks for adding Cusp of Night to your TBR as well. I’m jazzed! 🙂
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My pleasure, I’m sure I’m in for a treat with them both!
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Thanks, Mae! I love a good read. Congratulations on a great review, Ms. Peach! I’m eager to read your work.
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Hi, Linda. So great to have you stop by and check out the review. You will love this one!
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Thank you for the lovely comment, Linda. I was definitely delighted with Mae’s review, and if you decide to give the book a try, I hope you enjoy it. 🙂 Happy Reading!
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I’m sure I will, Diana. Mae hasn’t stirred me wrong.😄
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🙂
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Oooh! I love hearing that, Linda! 🙂
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Reblogged this on NEW OPENED BLOG > https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
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Awesome! Thank you so much for the wonderful share!
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Thanks so much for sharing, Michael. Between Mae and you, it’s been a wonderful day. Happy Reading, my friend.
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A wonderful review, Mae! I agree with you on Diana’s lyrical writing, the world building, characters creation and the waves of the plot. I look forward to reading it also.
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It’s a masterful story, Miriam. Everything well presented and tied up neatly at the end. I loved it, and wish you happy reading!
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It’s good to know there is a satisfying ending, Mae.
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Thank you so much for the kind comment, Miriam, and for generously reading my book. I hope this one sweeps you away! Happy Reading, my friend. ❤
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You’re welcome, Diana! I’m glad the weather is cooling down in Portland. ❤
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You’re right about Diana’s writing, Mae. Sometimes you’re at a point where you’re dying to know what happens next, but you have to pause and reread some passages because the words are so lyrical. This one’s waiting on my Kindle. Amazing review!
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Yes! Absolutely her writing does that, Teri. And it’s not often I pause to reread passages when I’m sucked up into a book. Glad you liked the review and I wish you happy reading!
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Thanks, Teri. What a kind thing to say. I agree that Mae writes one heck of a review and I couldn’t be happier with her kind comments. I hope you enjoy this one when it floats to the top of your tbr pile. Happy Reading!
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This is an amazing review to share, Mae! Bravo to Diana! 🙂
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Thanks for taking the time to check out Mae’s review, Natalie. I was over the roof with happiness to read it and know that the book hit the mark. Yay. Have a wonderful day, my friend. ❤
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She deserves all the accolades, Natalie. Such a great story!
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Great review Mae well done Diana. ❤ x
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Hi, Marje. Thanks for dropping by to check out the review. So glad you enjoyed it. Diana told a mesmerizing tale!
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Yes, Diana is a talented writer. ❤ x
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Thanks so much for dropping by, Marje, and for the kind comments. I couldn’t be happier with Mae’s review. 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
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And you to Diana. x
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A wonderful review of Diana’s book, Mae. All the reviews to date have been glowing.
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I can thoroughly see where they would be. This is an excellent story, Robbie!
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Yes, all of Diana’s books are very good.
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Thanks so much for the kind comment, Robbie. I’ve been thrilled with the lovely reviews so far. It warms an author’s heart. Have a lovely week. I hope your dad is doing well. Take care.
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Currently reading this one and it’s fantastic!
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Happy reading, Mark. As you said, it’s fantastic!
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Thanks so much for checking out Mae’s review and for the “fantastic” comment about the book! I’m so grateful, Mark, and glad you’re enjoying it. Happy Reading!
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