Humorous fiction

Book SynopsisJoin Hettie and Tilly as they tune in to a world of blackmail, obsession and murderous pies. As the Easter weekend approaches, feline detectives Hettie Bagshot and Tilly Jenkins are called to investigate the murder of local radio DJ Hartley Battenberg. Bowled over by the prospect of a bake-off competition, a cricket match and an outdoor screening of The Sound of Music, Hettie and Tilly struggle through a sea of trifle to catch out a killer. Will Bunty Basham’s eleven be triumphant? Has Whisker FM played its final jingle? And will celebrity cook Fanny Haddock get her just desserts?Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE NO. 2 FELINE DETECTIVE AGENCY 'Original and intriguing… a world without people which cat lovers will enter and enjoy’ P. D. James'I loved it. The whole concept is just so “real”!’ Barbara Erskine'Mandy Morton’s Feline Detective Agency instigates a new genre, both wonderful and surreal’ Maddy Prior‘The world that Morton has created is irresistible’ Publishers Weekly‘Witty and smart. Prepare to be besotted’ M.K. Graff‘Mandy Morton’s series is both charming and whimsical’ Barry Forshaw‘Hettie Bagshot might be a new face at the scene of a crime, but already she could teach most fictional detectives a thing or two’ The Hunts Post‘An absolute delight from beginning to end… Totally original, very different – and I’m in awe of the author’s imagination. Very much recommended’ Being Anne Blog

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Book SynopsisGentle chaos sets in when the absent-minded Mr Pim calls in to see George Marden, bearing some innocent news... George is a fine upstanding citizen and a stickler for doing the right thing. He has a devoted wife, Olivia, and is guardian to his somewhat flighty niece, Dinah.But his careful peace is broken when Mr Pim casually announces that he’s recently seen an ex-convict from Australia, Telworthy. The only thing is that the character sounds awfully like Olivia’s first, and supposedly deceased, husband… and if he’s eally still alive, then Olivia is a bigamist.

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Book SynopsisCan neighbours become more than good friends... After her fiancé left her, Ali and her daughter Grace enjoyed living in what became known as 'the Single Mums' Mansion'. However, with her best friends Amanda and Jacqui moving on, it's time for Ali and Grace to make their own way. Thankfully, a chance conversation leads to them moving into the infamous South London gated community known only as The Mews. In The Mews everyone lives in each other's pockets and curtain twitching is an Olympic sport. The neighbours are an eclectic bunch – from Nick the alleged spy, Carl the gorgeous but clearly troubled Idris Elba lookalike, to Debbie who is about to face the hardest fight of her life, and TV agent Samantha who is not as in control as she likes to pretend. Each day brings another drama, but along with the tears, real friendships grow. And her neighbours' problems might unlock the key to something Ali has yearned for all along... Will these single mums be able to move on from life in the mansion? Perfect for fans of Marian Keyes, Sophie Kinsella, Lindsey Kelk and Mhairi McFarlane. Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE SINGLE MUMS' MANSION: 'Based on the author's real experience, it's fresh, touching and very funny' Sunday People & Sunday Mirror. 'I absolutely ADORED [this] and I would definitely recommend it to other readers' Amanda Oughton, NetGalley. 'If you enjoy your stories with no filters, crammed full of laughter and poignancy, this is the book for you' Jane Hunt, NetGalley. 'I cannot wait to tell friends about it as I am sure they will enjoy as much as I did' Molly Stulmaker, NetGalley. 'Such a fun and funny book, but also moments of great sadness... Well-paced and well written' -- Claire Lyons, NetGalley

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Book SynopsisMum of one, Jess, has had enough of endless diaper-filled days, and her husband Chris has just the solution to vent her frustrations – a blog. Jess loves her daughter more than anything, but sometimes she just wants a little bit of freedom – some time for herself. Cue a laptop, a glass of wine and the beginning of a life-changing journey. Overnight Jess's inbox is full of notifications and before long she is officially a 'mummy blogger', but this new life comes with its own set of rules and regulations. With Queen of the Bloggers, Tiggy, blanking her in public, people recognizing her on the street and her life decisions suddenly judged by strangers, Jess's idea of 'me time' is slowly becoming a full-time job. Will Jess be able to find the right life/work balance? Or will she wish she'd never turned to a world online? From the award-winning blogger behind 'Mum of Boys & Mabel'. Praise for From Mum with Love: 'Catchy and engaging!' Macie Callewaert. 'Wonderful entertaining' Abby Siverman. 'I loved, loved, loved this book!' Petra Quelch. 'I loved the story as it followed the highs and lows of mothering' Natasha Brett. 'A relatable and hilarious read that I devoured in one sitting' Lindsie Gatto. 'I thought this was a beautiful and accurate representation of what it must feel like to be a mother' Whitney Meyer.

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Book SynopsisThe unforgettable finale to the international, bestselling Disco Days Trilogy … Bobby, Joey and Max Mojo return in an attempt to reclaim the elusive stardom of their youth, reuniting a legendary band that didn’t quite live up to expectations, with predictable results… ‘A real new talent on the Scottish literary scene’ Press & Journal ‘By turn hilarious and heart-breaking, more than anything Ross creates beautifully rounded characters full of humanity and perhaps most of all, hope’ Liam Rudden, Scotsman ‘David Ross carved out an enduring place for himself among contemporary Scottish novelists’ Alastair Mabb, Herald Scotland –––––––––––––––––––––––– The Disco Boys and The Band are back… In the early 80s, Bobby Cassidy and Joey Miller were inseparable; childhood friends and fledgling business associates. Now, both are depressed and lonely, and they haven't spoken to each other in more than ten years. A bizarre opportunity to honour the memory of someone close to both of them presents itself, if only they can forgive ... and forget. With the help of the deluded Max Mojo and the faithful Hamish May, can they pull off the impossible, and reunite the legendary Ayrshire band, The Miraculous Vespas, for a one-off Music Festival – The Big Bang – on a remote, uninhabited Scottish island? Absurdly funny, deeply moving and utterly human, The Man Who Loves Islands is an unforgettable finale to the Disco Days trilogy – a modern classic pumped full of music and middle-aged madness, written from the heart and pen of one of Scotland’s finest new voices. –––––––––––––––––––––––– Praise for David F. Ross ‘A warm, funny consideration of reconciliation between middle-aged friends and a celebration of music’s healing powers. Suggest to fans of Nick Hornby’ Library Journal ‘Warm, funny and evocative. If you grew up in the eighties, you’re going to love this’ Chris Brookmyre ‘Dark, hilarious, funny and heart-breaking all at the same time, a book that sums up the spirit of an era and a country in a way that will make you wince and laugh at the same time’ Muriel Gray ‘An astonishing tour de force’ John Niven ’This is a book that might just make you cry like nobody’s watching’ Iain MacLeod, Sunday Mail ‘Crucially Ross's novel succeeds in balancing light and dark, in that it can leap smoothly from brutal social realism to laugh-out-loud humour within a few sentences’ Press & Journal ‘Full of comedy, pathos and great tunes’ Hardeep Singh Kohli ‘If I saw that in a store I would buy it without even looking at what was inside’ Irvine Welsh ‘Like the vinyl that crackles off every page … as warm and authentic as Roddy Doyle at his very best’ Nick Quantrill ‘A solid-gold hit of a book! The closest you’ll ever get to being on Top of the Pops’ Colin McCredieTrade Review"[A] warm, funny consideration of reconciliation between middle-aged friends and a celebration of music's healing powers . . . suggest to fans of Nick Hornby." --Library Journal

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Book SynopsisNigel Molesworth, ‘the curse of St. Custard's’, was a much-loved post-war fictional schoolboy character who featured in a series of books by Geoffrey Willans and illustrated by Ronald Searle. The books also featured the headmaster Grimes, Nigel’s annoying younger brother Molesworth 2, his best friend Peason, the head boy Grabber and the school wet Fotherington-Thomas. Nigel’s main characteristic was his cynicism and in Nigel Molesworth’s Cynical Tendency he has, through the success of his YouTube channel The Cynical Tendency, started a Cynical Tendency political party and his school friends have all become heads of the main political parties. The play starts with a Prologue for those unfamiliar with the characters, and the action is then set just after a general election in the near future, the result of which was chaotic and all the players could possibly become Prime Minister but only with Nigel’s support. Nigel on the other hand…Trade Review'Ian Strathcarron's energetically sarcastic farce is part satire, part revue sketch, part critique of the amoral mess we find ourselves in today, above all a wonderful compendium of all the tropes and cliches which adorn our current, seriously knackered, political discourse. You may well laugh until you burst out crying.' Michael Coveney, Theatre Critic 'An absolute disgrace, whoever is behind this should be shot' The Old Saint Custardian

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Book SynopsisHistory lessons have never been so hilarious thanks to this collection of insults through the ages – the targets of your barrage of vintage invective won’t know what’s hit them. Ever wanted to ‘air the lungs (1)’ like a cowboy or dreamed of channelling the wit of Shakespeare to deliver that killer put-down to an Elizabethan fustilarian (2)? Are you too much of a medieval scobberlotcher (3) to realise this ambition? Well, you’re in luck, because The History of Insults has some of the finest put-downs of all time – starting with the Ancient Romans and Greeks and working through the centuries to modern times. This means you can dish out the best burns to bacon-fed bell swaggers (4) to your heart’s content. As they used to say in 19th-century London, ‘It’s more than enough to make a stuffed bird laugh!’ (1) Swear; (2) Scoundrel; (3) Lazy person; (4) Fat, loudmouth bullies

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Book SynopsisThe latest episode in the life of Natalie Klein, about whom Eleanor Berry has frequently written - this time her lust for one of her many psychiatrists. This tale takes us through the doors of Harley Street and beyond. We follow the life of Natalie Klein, fearless predator in the name of lust, as she attempts to entrap her prey in her tangled web, causing scandal from the hairdressers of Mayfair to the consulting rooms of Harley Street. A woman who likes to have a stalwart stock of doctors, Natalie sets her sights at Ted Curruthers, with black humour. But does she succeed...?

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Book SynopsisA truly innovative book for cat and kitten lovers Oliver's naughty and precocious perceptions of humans will delight, surprise and perhaps even shock you. Oliver Kitten was born in a firetruck and ends up living with a three-generation multicultural human family in a four-bedroom house. He keeps a diary of his own escapades and the things he hears and sees his family get up to. At once cute and funny, Oliver is a little naughty and sometimes downright wicked in his precocious observations of the things the humans in his house get up to. Oliver's family includes a Scottish grandmother (whose knitting wool has adventures of its own), Clint, a sometime unpredictable two-year-old boy, the father Richard, his wife Nicole, and Lucy, their 13-year-old daughter. Lucy thinks she is Oliver Kitten's owner and spends her life between the fridge and her bedroom, generally with Oliver in one hand and her phone in the other.Oliver is a diligent kitten and keeps a daily diary covering everything in his life including paper shredding, leaping, purring, meowing, kneading, scratching, grooming hiding, escaping, finding sleeping places and giving licks and kisses.Elegantly produced with black and white line drawings, Oliver Kitten's Diary shows us a kitten evolving into a powerful and smart adult cat with lots of fun, affection, love and adventures.

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Book SynopsisEven after making his break as an author, marrying the person he loves, and becoming a father, Itsuki Hashima has not changed and continues his regular routine of writing novels. But how about Chihiro, or Miyako, or Haruto and Nayuta and Ashley? Not to mention Kaizu, Kaiko, Setsuna, and Nadeshiko?! How much or how little have they changed? What kind of future awaits them?

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Book SynopsisAfter giving up on becoming a protagonist, Itsuki continues to listlessly churn out novels like a machine. On the other hand, Nayuta has given up writing entirely in favor of shutting herself up in her room and playing video games. Though our main characters have stagnated, the world keeps turning and time marches relentlessly forward...and whether they’re aware of it or not, big things are in store for Ashley, Nadeshiko, and the Hashima family.

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Book SynopsisAmane’s confusing and frustrating life with the angel continues. Spending New Year’sEve and Valentine's Day with Mahiru only leaves him more unsure about his feelingstoward the beautiful girl. Could it be that his clumsy warmth is slowly melting theangel’s cold facade?

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Book SynopsisAt Iroha Isshiki's request, the Service Club is now helping with a Valentine's Day event. Once Miura, Ebina, and Kawasaki are all involved, it spirals into a surprisingly major undertaking. But despite the relative calm, there's a sense of dissonance that's becoming increasingly difficult to ignore-and feelings that can't be rationalized away.

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Book SynopsisWith the school culture festival looming, Tomozaki finds himself busier than ever, hisattention split between helping Kikuchi with her script, developing a comedy show withMimimi, and tackling an assignment from Hinami. As practice for the play begins,Kikuchi and Tomozaki decide to interview Hinami about her past in order to strengthenher connection with her role. But just what feelings will she have to face before thecurtain rises...?

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Book SynopsisWinter is here. Tomozaki finds himself at odds with Kikuchi—and once again, words close the distance between them. Tomozaki confronts his own deeds, and that sheds light on one aspect of Kikuchi that previously went unnoticed. There are some things a bottom-tier character just won’t notice, things he can't pick up on. And then there’s Aoi Hinami, a person so special to both Tomozaki and Kikuchi... Can Tomozaki clear this difficult trial with his first-ever girlfriend?

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Book SynopsisThe Inventions of the Idiot is a humorous novel written by John Kendrick Bangs. The book follows the adventures of the titular Idiot, who is a bumbling inventor and self-proclaimed genius. Despite his many failures, the Idiot remains confident in his abilities and continues to come up with new and bizarre inventions. Throughout the book, the Idiot creates a variety of ridiculous contraptions, from a machine that can turn lead into gold to a flying bicycle powered by the wind. However, his inventions always seem to go wrong, leading to hilarious and disastrous consequences. Along the way, the Idiot also finds himself caught up in a variety of absurd situations, such as accidentally becoming president of the United States and marrying the Queen of England. The novel is full of witty humor and satire, poking fun at the overly confident. The story also serves as a commentary on the obsession with technology and innovation that was prevalent during the 20th century.

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Book SynopsisThe Lazy Tour of Two Idle Apprentices is a collaborative painting by way of the renowned Victorian authors Charles Dickens. The book takes the shape of a travelogue and follows the fictitious adventure of two idle apprentices, Thomas Idle and Francis Goodchild. The narrative unfolds as a chain of funny and reflective sketches recounting the adventures and encounters of Idle and Goodchild in the course of their travels. As the two characters embark on a leisurely adventure thru the English countryside, the authors use the placing to discover subject matters of idleness, introspection, and the quirks of human nature. The collaborative attempt among Dickens and Collins adds a dynamic layer to the storytelling, combining Dickens's wit and Collins's narrative ability. The book offers readers a lovely exploration of person dynamics, scenic landscapes, and the funny observations of the 2 protagonists. While The Lazy Tour of Two Idle Apprentices may not be as extensively identified as some of Dickens's predominant novels, it stands as a testament to the authors' creative collaboration and their capacity to interact readers via a lighter and more whimsical literary form.

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Book SynopsisThe Deacon of Dobbinsville through using John A. Morrison is a captivating exploration of small-town lifestyles, community, and the intricacies of human relationships. Morrison, a professional storyteller, weaves a tale that facilities across the existence of the deacon, a determine synonymous with moral authority and community provider. Set against the backdrop of Dobbinsville, the story unfolds with richly textured characters and a vibrant portrayal of the city. The deacon, probable a relevant person, turns into a conduit for Morrison to delve into topics of faith, morality, and personal increase. As a pillar of the network, the deacon's journey can also mirror the traumatic situations and triumphs of those in small cities, supplying readers a relatable and true experience. Morrison's writing fashion is characterized with the resource of wit, enchantment, and a keen knowledge of human nature. The narrative is in all likelihood to be infused with humor, making the story now not handiest engaging but additionally reflective of the lighter moments in the lives of its characters. The Deacon of Dobbinsville is extra than a story; it is a mirrored image at the normal human experience.

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Book SynopsisA special hardback edition of Neil Gaiman''s internationally bestselling novel with stunning new contemporary artwork by Monet Alyssa. **Highly anticipated television adaptation of Anansi Boys coming soon to Amazon Prime Video**''Neil could never have known that he was writing for a confused Jamaican kid who, without even knowing it, was still staggering from centuries of erasure of his own gods and monsters'' MARLON JAMES---Fat Charlie Nancy never knew his dead dad was a god - Anansi the trickster. He never knew he had a brother either.Now brother Spider is on his doorstep, about to make life more interesting . . . and a lot more dangerous.It''s a meeting that will take Fat Charlie from his London home to Florida, the Caribbean, and the very beginning of the world itself. Or the end of the world, depending on which way you''re looking.**Includes black and white chapter artworTrade ReviewTo give him his full title: Neil Gaiman, Architect of Worlds, Svengali of Plot, Shaman of Character, Exploder of Cliche, Master Craftsman of Style, Dreamer, Laureate of the Republic of Letters -- David MitchellBeyond all the borders that divide us, there is a place of infinite possibilities and pure magic. I think of Neil Gaiman as a writer who wears the key to that land around his neck - the key to Storyland -- Elif ShafakGaiman is, simply put, a treasure-house of story -- Stephen KingA god in the universe of story -- Stephen FryA tonic for these turbulent times * Irish Times *Much too clever to be caught in the net of a single interpretation -- Philip PullmanIntimate, erudite and illuminating -- Guillermo del ToroWhile we might come to his writing for gods and monsters, actually all human life is here * Independent *

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Book Synopsis''Romantic, funny, sweet and sexy'' MARIAN KEYES''The funny, clever, deeply romantic, sinfully sexy, devastatingly heartbreaking, perfectly uplifting book of your dreams'' CRESSIDA MCLAUGHLIN''A very swoony, sexy, warm read'' CESCA MAJORIs he too good to be true?Meet Theo. Handsome, sexy, funny. kind. And he can cook.He''s literally the man of Esme''s dreams. But Esme''s sensible enough to know that you can''t just manifest your perfect boyfriend then have him turn up on your doorstep.Or can you?REAL READERS ARE SWOONING OVER THE MAN OF HER DREAMS...''Beautifull written, romantic, sexy, and gives a good ol'' tug on the heart strings'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''Sarra Manning is a one-click author for me'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''Funny, romantic and spicy in equal measures'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐''An auto-buy author for mTrade ReviewThis is already one of my books of the year! . . . A VERY special book - a decades-long 'near miss' love story, it gave me One Day vibes. It's GORGEOUS, real, believable and BEAUTIFUL * Marian Keyes *Reading London, with Love reminded me why Sarra Manning is one of my favourite writers. It's wonderful - romantic, sexy, moving, and impossible to put down. * Louise O'Neill *A wonderful rom-com - such a glorious treat * Harriet Evans *Wonderful. An epic, enduring love story that is so funny, tender and warm. I loved everything about it. -- Cressida McLaughlinImmersive, razor sharp and full of tenderness. Manning explores love in many forms - not least her obvious affection for the city in which this romance unfolds. But it is her witty rendering of life in the 90s that I really fell for! I was transported! * Claire McGlasson *Sarra Manning's stunning, beautifully written book is not just a love letter to London, but a love letter to what really matters in life: each other. Funny, smart and gorgeously romantic, London, With Love is the perfect read to make you smile on the rainiest of days * Katy Birchall *A book to treasure - brilliantly crafted with characters that feel like lifelong friends. Beautiful, romantic, real, poignant, nostalgic and completely compelling. I love this book with all my heart. * Alex Brown *London, With Love is just all kinds of glorious, one minute moving me to tears, the next making me snort with laughter. I'm going to be pressing it into the hands of all my friends and family * Jenny Ashcroft *Sarra Manning is the queen of London-set romance. London, With Love is the sort of book that sweeps you off your feet and wins your heart with laughter, tears and the whole cavalcade of city life. Utterly romantic, totally recognisable and with as much spirit as the city itself, this is an unforgettable love story * Jane Casey *Brimful of longing, tenderness and the pain of missed chances, this book could soften the stoniest heart * Kate Riordan *PRAISE FOR SARRA MANNING * - *Absolutely gorgeous with great characterisation -- Marian KeyesSexy, heartfelt, funny and fresh -- Laura Jane WilliamsUplifting, tender and heartwarming -- Louise O'NeillBeautiful -- Lindsey KelkA pure dose of adorable * Cosmopolitan *Romantic, funny, sweet and sexy * Marian Keyes *The funny, clever, deeply romantic, sinfully sexy, devastatingly heartbreaking, perfectly uplifting book of your dreams. Sarra Manning is the absolute Queen of funny, heartfelt, deeply emotional romances, and The Man of Her Dreams is romcom perfection * Cressida McLaughlin *A very swoony, sexy, warm read * Cesca Major *I absolutely, completely, entirely and wholly adored The Man of Her Dreams. I didn't think Sarra's writing could get any better . . . but she has somehow surpassed herself. It manages to be romantic, relatable and heartfelt, while also being such an compelling, intriguing story - I couldn't put it down. I'll be thinking about this special book for a long time to come, and recommending it to everyone I know. * Lucy Vine *What a wonderful storyteller Sarra Manning is. All her characters feel so real and utterly lovable despite their best efforts. Lovely, lovely book. * Jane Casey *Smart, funny, audacious, and dazzlingly romantic. The Man of Her Dreams is an utterly ingenious romcom with the breathless page-turning quality of a thriller. I could not put it down. Sarra Manning just gets better and better. * Laura Wood *Romantic, smart and moving * Best Magazine *A clever, modern romance that keeps the reader guessing right to the very end * Woman's Weekly *Very funny * Bella Magazine *Saucy, funny and emotional, this is a feel-good romance with fabulous characters and a juicy twist * Daily Record *This is a real emotional rollercoaster, but the warmth, humour and wonderful characters will have you tearing through those pages * Heat Magazine *[A] brilliant romantic comedy * Hello! Magazine *Sweet and satisfying * i Paper *Manning once again delivers a great female lead who is easy to relate to, flawed, and someone who you can't help rooting for * Kay Ribeiro *Sarra Manning writes with brio and Esme's slow self-realisation will bring a tear to your eye * Times *PRAISE FOR THE MAN OF HER DREAMS --

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Book SynopsisSweetpea TV series starring Ella Purnell now on Sky Atlantic!Everyone's favourite serial killer is back, and she's more unpredictable than everReaders LOVE Thorn in My SidePerfect for fans of a snarky narrative' NetGalley reviewer ?????I absolutely loved it' NetGalley reviewer ?????Sometimes, you can be your own worst enemyRhiannon Lewis thought she finally had it all: thanks to the pandemic she's had to keep a much lower profile but has found happiness with her fiancé Rafael and his family. For once, she is surrounded by people who love her for who she is (or who they think she is).After over 800 days without murdering anyone, the woman formerly known as the Sweetpea Killer thinks she might have finally turned over a new leaf. That is until her soon-to-be sister-in-law has a run in with her abusive ex, and Rhiannon rediscovers her taste for revenge. This time, with a loving family in tow, the stakes are much higher. Wedded bliss and life as a normal person are finally within Rhiannon''s reach, but you can never keep a good serial killer down.Can you?Praise for CJ Skuse:This darkly comic novelhas the potential to become a cult classic' Daily MailDark, depraved and devilishly delicious. A full throttle savage and satirical thriller' John MarrsTrade Review'Another twisty, turny page-turner with a fantastically dark main character and a corker of an ending. Loved it.' Suzy K. Quinn Praise for C.J. Skuse ‘This darkly comic novel…has the potential to become a cult classic.’ Daily Mail ‘Filthy and funny… a compulsive read’ Sunday Times ‘This isn’t a book for the squeamish or the faint-hearted … think Bridget Jones meets American Psycho’ Red ‘Dark, depraved and devilishly delicious. A full throttle savage and satirical thriller’ John Marrs ‘Hilarious, refreshing, dark and memorable. It doesn’t disappoint, I loved it’ Phoebe Morgan ‘You MUST read this book especially if you like your (anti) heroes dirty-mouthed, deadly and dark, dark dark. ADORED IT' Fiona Cummins, author of Rattle ‘Pitch dark, laugh-out-loud hilarious – the Sweetpea series is pure genius escapism’ Susi Holliday ‘Fascinating, intriguing and twist after twist in the tale’ Suzy K Quinn ‘Dark and wickedly funny, and as dry and acerbic as Fleabag, it’s hard not to love Rhiannon Lewis’ Claire Allan ‘Sweetpea hits all the right buttons. A dark, twisted read about a female serial killer with dollops of humour, sarcasm and a lightweight approach…keeping you gripped and on the hook, both smiling and squirming.’ Maxim Jakubowski, Lovereading ‘Witty, vulgar, sweary, darkly funny, but enthralling – a must-read for thriller fans’ My Weekly ‘This book is OUTRAGEOUS’ Compulsive Readers ‘This anti-hero is psychotic without doubt, sexually voracious and incredibly funny’ Shots magazine

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Book SynopsisP. G. Wodehouse (1881-1975) is widely regarded as the greatest comic writer of the 20th century. Wodehouse wrote more than 70 novels and 200 short stories, creating numerous much-loved characters - the inimitable Jeeves and Wooster, Lord Emsworth and his beloved Empress of Blandings, Mr Mulliner, Ukridge, and Psmith. His humorous articles were published in more than 80 magazines, including Punch, over six decades. He was also a highly successful music lyricist, once with over five musicals running on Broadway simultaneously. P.G. Wodehouse was awarded the Mark Twain Prize for 'an outstanding and lasting contribution to the happiness of the world'.

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Book SynopsisThe highly acclaimed novel and sequel to Temples of Delight by bestselling and much-loved novelist Barbara TrapidoTrade ReviewBarbara Trapido couldn’t write a boring sentence if she tried -- FAY WELDONRavishing * SUNDAY TIMES *A brilliant book -- MARY WESLEY * DAILY MAIL *She wraps up all the golden threads with dazzling wit ... Think Measure for Measure here and a touch of The Tempest there ... Trapido's pen drips with sensuousness and sexuality * THE TIMES *She is simply dynamite … There are no apparent bounds to Trapido’s skill, her inventiveness and her knowledge of the endlessly surprising and devious ways in which people deal with each other -- PHILIP HENSHER * GUARDIAN *Juggling by Barbara Trapido is, I think, already well known but it should be even more so. It has the best piece of Shakespeare criticism in it I’ve ever read -- KATHERINE RUNDELL * GUARDIAN *A joy to read … Supremely skilful * OBSERVER *A work of enormous charm, highly entertaining and told with a deft touch, which handles serious matters lightly and treats light ones with proper respect * INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *A brilliant performance; it is also a magically enjoyable book to read … she understand her characters and cares about them and makes you care too * SPECTATOR *She weaves a cat’s cradle of wit and erudition around her high-stepping characters, take breath-taking risks and triumphs against all the odds * INDEPENDENT *A brilliant performance … A magically enjoyable book * SPECTATOR *

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Book SynopsisWelcome to beautiful Hope Island where the sea sparkles, the daffodils are blooming and a blossoming romance is just around the corner . . .Bella has always had a sunny outlook and caring nature, despite recently falling on hard times. When she finds a handsome homeless man on her doorstep, her kind heart tells her she must help him. So, she invites Isaac into her cottage and into her life in ways she could never have imagined...But Isaac is not what he seems. He''s keeping a huge secret from Bella, yet he never expected to fall for this open, generous and charming woman.Bella can''t ignore the chemistry between her and Isaac, but she''s had her trust badly broken in her past. Will she run when she learns the truth about Isaac, or will he be the one man who can help Bella believe in love again?A gorgeously romantic and heartwarming story to completely lose yourself in. Perfect for fans of Jenny Colga

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Book Synopsis A fabulously funny, feel-good novel that will make you laugh until you cry, for anyone who's ever presented a perfectly-filtered life online to hide the unglamorous reality. Trade Review Praise for We Just Clicked: ‘Such a fun read!’ Carrie Hope Fletcher, Sunday Times bestselling author of On the Other Side ‘Warm-hearted and hilarious. It will make you giggle and want to hug the book when you finish it.’ Miranda Dickinson, author of Our Story ‘A brilliantly funny, uplifting yet emotional rom-com that I just lost myself in.’ Elle Spellman, author of Running Into Trouble ‘This is the fun breath of fresh air we need right now!’ Fabulous ‘Funny and touching’ My Weekly Praise for Anna Bell: 'The perfect laugh-out-loud love story' Louise Pentland, Sunday Times bestselling author of Wilde Like Me 'Smart, witty and completely fresh' Cathy Bramley, Sunday Times bestselling author 'Romantic and refreshing' Mhairi McFarlane, Sunday Times bestselling author 'Perfect for fans of Sophie Kinsella' Take a Break 'A fun, bouncy, brilliant tale' Heat 'Funny, relatable and fabulously written' Daily Express 'Funny, romantic and uplifting' Cressida McLaughlin, author of The Cornish Cream Tea Summer

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Book SynopsisGeorge MacDonald Fraser's hilarious stories of the most disastrous soldier in the British Army collected together for the first time in one volume.Private McAuslan, J., the Dirtiest Soldier in the Word (alias the Tartan Caliban, or the Highland Division's answer to the Pekin Man) first demonstrated his unfitness for service in The General Danced at Dawn. He continued his disorderly advance, losing, soiling or destroying his equipment, through the pages of McAuslan in the Rough. The final volume, The Sheikh and the Dustbin, pursues the career of the great incompetent as he shambles across North African and Scotland, swinging his right arm in time with his right leg and tripping over his untied laces.His admirers know him as court-martial defendant, ghost-catcher, star-crossed lover and golf caddie extraordinary. Whether map-reading his erratic way through the Sahara by night or confronting Arab rioters, McAuslan's talent for catastrophe is guaranteed. Now, for the first time, the inimiTrade Review‘Thanks to Fraser’s passion for history, his rare gift for rattling narrative and his infectious delight in robust, rollicking language, we can rejoice in a work of genius worthy of being ranked with P.G. Wodehouse – there can be no higher accolade’—Daily Telegraph ‘Written with the kind of unaffected vigour which has characterised the greatest British humorists, these stories do for the Scots what Flann O’Brien did for the Irish and P.G. Wodehouse for the English’—Daily Mail ‘The third McAuslan volume should certainly be among the first books you pack this or any other holiday season’—The Times ‘One takes leave of these characters with real and grateful regret’—Sunday Times ‘It’s a while since I enjoyed a book so much, and once I’d finished it, I felt like starting it all over again’—Glasgow Evening Times ‘It’s great fun and rings true: a Highland Fling of a book’—Eric Linklater, author of The Wind on the Moon ‘The greatest book about soldiers since Ian Hay wrote The First Hundred Thousand … MacDonald Fraser is magnificent’—Eric Hiscock, author of Around the World in Wanderer III ‘As well as providing a fine assortment of treats, George MacDonald Fraser is a marvellous reporter and a first-rate historical novelist’—Kingsley Amis, author of Lucky Jim

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Book Synopsis ''Charming, very funny indeed. Angela Thirkell is perhaps the most Pym-like of any twentieth-century author, after Pym herself'' Alexander McCall SmithIt is wartime in Barsetshire, and so much has changed. Belier''s Priory is now a hospital for wounded soldiers, and Sir Harry and Lady Waring have moved to the servants'' quarters, where they make the best of it - so much more practical than the large, draughty house! Soon, their niece Leslie, who has a hush-hush job with the navy, comes to recuperate: her nerves are frayed from overwork and a close call with a torpedo.When the Warings are then asked to house an intelligence officer and his wife, they reluctantly agree. They cannot know what a much-needed tonic Noel and Lydia Merton will prove to be. With the Priory being both the Waring residence and the army hospital, it becomes the hub of activity for all of Barsetshire.Trade ReviewYou read her, laughing, and want to do your best to protect her characters from any reality but their own * New York Times *The novels are a delight, with touches of E. F. Benson, E. M. Delafield and P. G. Wodehouse -- Christopher Fowler * Independent on Sunday *Charming, very funny indeed. Angela Thirkell is perhaps the most Pym-like of any twentieth-century author, after Pym herself -- Alexander McCall Smith

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Book Synopsis''An utterly gorgeous novel. It will forever hold my heart in its pages'' Pandora Sykes, co-host of The High-Low podcastGrace loves a woman. Annie loves a man. Violet isn''t quite sure. But you''ll love them all...Grace has what one might call a ''full and interesting life'' which is code for not married and has no kids. Her life is the envy of her straight friends, but all this time she has been waiting in secret for love to hit her so hard that she runs out of breath, like the way a wave in a rough sea bowls you over, slams you into the sand, and nearly drowns you.When Grace meets a beautiful woman at a party, she falls suddenly and desperately in love. At the same party, lawyer Annie meets the man of her dreams - the only man she''s ever met whose table manners are up to her mother''s standards. And across the city, Violet, who is afraid of almost everything, is making another discovery of her own: that for the first time in her life she''s falling in love with a woman.A Love Story for Bewildered Girls is a moving and exquisitely funny novel about love, sex and heartbreak.''Exquisitely tender, beautifully written, funny and sad'' Daisy Buchanan, author of How to Be a Grown-up ''Funny, honest, brilliant'' Nina Stibbe, bestselling author of Love, Nina''I absolutely loved this book by Emma Morgan which follows 3 women''s very different love lives... I inhaled it'' Emma Gannon, Sunday Times best-selling author and host of the podcast Ctrl-Alt-Delete''Funny, touching, uplifting, thoroughly modern'' Lauren Bravo, author of What Would the Spice Girls Do?''I was transfixed by this funny and moving story of three women navigating their way through the complexities of love, life and the search for personal fulfilment'' Sarah Haywood, author of The Cactus, a Richard & Judy Book Club Pick ''A charming modern romance'' Glamour ''Beautifully written, Morgan''s novel is a seriously impressive debut'' Stylist''Emma Morgan is an author to look out for'' Julie Cohen, author of ''Louis & Louise''LONGLISTED FOR THE POLARI PRIZE 2020Trade ReviewAn utterly gorgeous novel. It will forever hold my heart in its pages. -- Pandora Sykes, host of The High-Low podcastExquisitely tender, beautifully written, funny and sad. . . a story about women rescuing themselves and each other. It made my heart swell -- Daisy Buchanan, author of 'How To Be A Grown Up'I absolutely loved this book by Emma Morgan which follows 3 women's very different love lives... I inhaled it -- Emma Gannon, host of the podcast Ctrl-Alt-DeleteFunny, honest, brilliant -- Nina Stibbe, bestselling author of 'Love, Nina'Funny, touching, uplifting, thoroughly modern -- Lauren Bravo, author of 'What Would the Spice Girls Do?'A funny exploration of love, friendship and female sexuality, I found this novel difficult to put down -- Clare Fisher, author of 'All The Good Things'A Love Story For Bewildered Girls is a triumph and I don't use that word lightly. When I finished it, I wanted to start it all over again. -- Geraldine Quigley, author of 'Music Love Drugs War'A debut novel about three women exploring the highs and lows of first love. . . It's so good to read a romcom with LGBT+ characters and that focuses on the strength of female friendship as well as romance. * Red *I was transfixed by this funny and moving story of three women navigating their way through the complexities of love, life and the search for personal fulfilment. I was rooting for them from the start, willing each of them on to find their own particular key to happiness, which isn't necessarily where you think it will be. This exquisite depiction of misplaced love, heartbreak and emerging self-knowledge feels utterly true-to-life. -- Sarah Haywood, author of 'The Cactus', a Richard & Judy Book Club PickFunny, sweet, wise, beautifully observed and just so full of heart. I absolutely loved it. Emma Morgan is clearly a very talented writer indeed. -- Christina Patterson, author of 'The Art of Not Falling Apart'A charming modern romance * Glamour *Beautifully written, Morgan's novel is a seriously impressive debut * Stylist *

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Book SynopsisJim Qwilleran, newspaper columnist and Moose County''s richest resident, is intrigued to hear about the mysterious disappearance of an unidentified backpacker somewhere in Fishport, a village near Mooseville where he has a log cabin. With its hundred miles of lake for a vista and its great dome of sky, Mooseville is just the place to spend a short summer vacation. Rest and relaxation, however, are out of the question, for Qwill finds himself dragged into some hightly innovative plans for this year''s fourth of July parade.Above all, he is determined to dispel the rumours circulating that extraterrestrial beings may be responsible for the missing backpacker...Trade Review'The fastidious plotting is designed to appeal to more than just the cat-lover' The Times

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Book SynopsisFrom New York Times bestseller and Hugo Award-winner John Scalzi, Agent to the Stars is a brilliantly witty first-contact story unlike any other.Showbiz is about to go interstellarAs an ambitious young agent, Thomas Stein knows all about the art of the deal, even if his actors aren’t quite A-list material. But he’s about to receive some out-of-this-world clients – literally. The space-faring Yherajk have come to Earth to talk interstellar peace. One problem: they’re also hideous, and smell like rotting fish.For Stein, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become the hottest name in Hollywood. Or on the planet. Yet it’s one thing to land a client’s blockbuster film role – and quite another to negotiate for an entire alien race. He’ll need every ounce of his charm, wit and wiles. But even with these considerable talents, can he really give the Yherajk the makeover they need to shine on the world’s stage?Praise for John Scalzi:‘John Scalzi is the most entertaining, accessible writer working in SF today’ – Joe Hill‘Scalzi is one of the slickest writers that SF has ever produced’ – Wall Street Journal

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Book SynopsisP. G. Wodehouse (1881-1975) is widely regarded as the greatest comic writer of the 20th century. Wodehouse wrote more than 70 novels and 200 short stories, creating numerous much-loved characters - the inimitable Jeeves and Wooster, Lord Emsworth and his beloved Empress of Blandings, Mr Mulliner, Ukridge, and Psmith. His humorous articles were published in more than 80 magazines, including Punch, over six decades. He was also a highly successful music lyricist, once with over five musicals running on Broadway simultaneously. P.G. Wodehouse was awarded the Mark Twain Prize for 'an outstanding and lasting contribution to the happiness of the world'.Trade ReviewThe gold standard of English wit … There is not, and never will be, anything to touch him -- Christopher HitchensThe funniest writer ever to put words to paper -- Hugh LaurieFor as long as I'm immersed in a P.G. Wodehouse book, it's possible to keep the real world at bay and live in a far, far nicer, funnier one where happy endings are the order of the day -- Marian Keyes

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Book SynopsisTHE MILLION-COPY NO.1 BESTSELLER''Enormously powerful'' Guardian''Hilarious, sophisticated, compulsive'' The Times___________________''I am in a car park in Leeds when I tell my husband I don''t want to be married to him any more. . . ''London GP Katie Carr always thought she was a good person. With her husband David making a living as ''The Angriest Man in Holloway'', she figured she could put up with anything. Until, that is, David meets DJ Goodnews and becomes a good person too. A far-too-good person who starts committing crimes of charity like taking in the homeless and giving their kids'' toys away. Suddenly Katie''s feeling very bad about herself, and thinking that if charity begins at home, then maybe it''s time to move. . . This laugh-out-loud novel, from the bestselling author of About a Boy and High Fidelity, will have you gripped from start to finish and will appeal to fans of David Nicholls and Jonathan Coe, as well as readers in need of a moral compass everywhere.___________________''Pins you in your armchair and won''t let go . . . How to be Good? How to be bloody marvellous, more like'' Mail on Sunday''It does exactly what it says on the cover. Hornby''s prose is artful and effortless, his spiky wit as razored as a number-two cut'' Independent''The writing is so funny, and the set-pieces so brilliant . . . Hornby''s best book since Fever Pitch'' Lynn Truss, The Times Trade ReviewVintage Nick Hornby. Very funny and very clever, and packed with wit and brilliance * Spectator *

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Book SynopsisThe fourth book in the multi-million copy bestselling No. 1 Ladies'' Detective Agency seriesThe one with the rival detectiveMma Ramotswe faces the unexpected and unwelcome appearance in town of a new private detective, Mr Cephas Buthelezi. To ensure she does not lose clients to him, she takes on several cases at once, including those of an errant husband and of a man targeted by ostrich rustlers. Meanwhile, Mma Makutsi has decided to set up a typing school to teach men some useful skills - but Mma Ramotswe fears her secretary is falling under the spell of a man who does not have her best interests at heart...''A glorious creation'' Mail on Sunday''Happiness and quiet wisdom'' Daily Telegraph''Sparkles with African sunshine and Mma Ramotswe''s wit'' Dallas Morning News''It''s hard to find fault with such good-natured and pleasurable optimism'' ObserverTrade ReviewMma Ramotswe's methods - and her results - are as unusual as the novels they inhabit... All this activity is much less about whodunnit than why * New York Times *McCall Smith is a careful, emblematic writer who is beyond gifted... he is a natural storyteller * The List *The hypnotic ease of McCall Smith's style makes everything clear almost instantly... Throughout the Botswana landscape is richly evoked... Happiness and quiet wisdom prevail * Daily Telegraph *Mma Ramotswe is a glorious creation, a character likely to prove every bit as enduring as Miss Marple or Hercule Poirot. * Mail on Sunday *Sparkles with African sunshine and Mma Ramotswe's wit * Dallas Morning News *It's hard to find fault with such good-natured and pleasurable optimism * Observer *I can think of no author writing today so deserving of an enormous audience * New Statesman *This series' huge appeal lies in its mannerly folk wisdom and wry, gentle humor, full of wit, nuance and caring... It's an oasis in a genre that too often seems a desert of violence and inhumanity * Chicago Sun Times *As beguiling as Alexader McCall Smith's earlier books about the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency... His prose is deceptively simple, with a gift for evoking the earth and sky of Africa * Seattle Times *Get your hands on one of the mysteries from the No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency series... Each book is a thinly disguised love letter to the people and culture of Southern Africa... A great escape * Elle *Mma Ramotswe's methods - and her results - are as unusual as the novels they inhabit . . . All this activity is much less about whodunnit than why * NEW YORK TIMES *McCall Smith is a careful, emblematic writer who is beyond gifted, he is a natural storyteller. McCall Smith has once again charmed the sarongs off us * THE LIST *The hypnotic ease of McCall Smith's style makes everything clear almost instantly . . . Throughout the Botswana landscape is richly evoked. Happiness and quiet wisdom prevail. * DAILY TELEGRAPH *Mma Ramotswe is a glorious creation, a character likely to prove every bit as enduring as Miss Marple or Hercule Poirot. * MAIL ON SUNDAY *

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Book Synopsis''Teetotal!'' Ma said. ''It''s a libel. He''ll never live it down. He''ll never be able to hold his head up again. Whatever will people think? What''s he going to say when anybody asks him to have one?''''No,'' said Dr Conner.''You''ll have to strap him down,'' Ma said. ''You''ll have to put the handcuffs on.''And so after a mild heart-attack - caused by rather too much of what you fancy - Pop Larkin finds himself off the booze, off the good food and off the good life generally, much to his own and everyone''s else''s horror and upset. And while Ma tries to find ways around ''doctor''s orders'', young Primrose is finding her own way round a rather flustered - not to say flushed - Mr Candy ...Trade ReviewThey are absolute comfort books . . . all five titles are being rereleased just in time for summer * The Lady *Pop is as sexy, genial, generous, and boozy as ever. Ma is a worthy match for him in all these qualities -- The * Times *As funny as Evelyn Waugh and as enchanting as Laurie Lee's Cider with Rosie. Don't miss it -- - * Herald *Pop Larkin, Ma and their progeny . . . are essentially English of the rich and ribald England of Chaucer and Shakespeare. A superb and timeless comedy -- - * Scotsman *A wistful daydream about innocence and happiness -- - * Spectator *The high mid-summer pomps of tree and flower are evoked with gusto -- - * The Times Literary Supplement *

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Book SynopsisInheriting unexpected millions has left reporter Jim Qwilleran looking like the cat who swallowed the canary. While his two Siamese cats, Koko and Yum Yum, adjust to being fat cats in an enormous mansion, Qwilleran samples the life-styles of the rich and famous by hiring a staff of eccentric servants. A missing housemaid and a shocking murder soon show him the unsavoury side of the upper crust. But it''s Koko''s purr-fect propensity for clues amid the caviar and champagne that gives Qwilleran pause to evaluate the most unlikely suspects...before his taste for the good life turns into his last meal.

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Book SynopsisOn the surface, things appear tranquil in Moose County. Jim Qwilleran, newspaper columnist and the county''s richest resident, has moved back in to the remodelled apple barn with his two remarkable felines, Koko and Yum Yum. And the newly built gazebo is providing an idyllic opportunity for all three to commune with nature.But then an elderly woman dies in a suspicious fire. Next, the newly opened art centre falls victim to a mysterious break-in. Throw in a scandal involving an unscrupulous local politician and an anti-computer uprising at the town library and life in Pickax is anything but peaceful ...

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Book SynopsisLook out for the new BBC adaptation starring Anna Chancellor, Miranda Richardson and Mark Gatiss!Miss Elizabeth Mapp reigns supreme over the village of Tilling...until the advent of Mrs Emmeline Lucas, or ''Lucia'' to her friends. No one could compete, surely, with Lucia''s formidable armoury: her duchesses, her Italian, her financial speculations, her celebrated recipe for Lobster à la Riseholme. But Mapp will not relinquish her supremacy in local society so easily, and battle is joined between these two indomitable queens and their rather fickle allies.Trade ReviewNo matter how appalling, malicious and pretentious the behaviour of Lucia, the reader is always lured into a sense of affectionate complicity with this comic monster * Daily Telegraph *Bitchily observant novel of small-town life * Independent *Sparkles with wicked wit...provides some pointed digs at social one- upmanship and the genteelly disguised venality of the upper classes. But, on another level, it can be hugely enjoyed as class-war subversion * Sunday Times *The pleasure of Mapp and Lucia is summed up, surely, in Alice Roosevelt's bon mot. "If you have nothing good to say about anybody, come and sit right by me." -- Philip HensherOh the joy of seeing Lucia again! These magic books are as fresh as paint. The characters are real and therefore timeless -- Nancy Mitford * The Times *

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