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Four Irish Brothers Winery #1
A Small Town Christmas
Winemaker and single father Conor Flaherty is determined to make this Christmas holiday special for his daughter even though his family’s winery, Four Irish Brothers, is facing some challenges.
High-octane Chicago attorney Samantha Hayes is looking forward to some delicious food, fine wine, small town charm, and a break from her hectic big city life when she agrees to do a favor for her boss and help his younger brother with a lawsuit that’s been slapped on his family’s historic winery in River’s Edge. She’s not expecting that her sexy new client will have a smile that will melt her heart and remind her that there’s more to life than work.
Sam falls hard for Conor, his daughter and the small, friendly town, but can she trust her instincts and risk her heart? Sam hasn’t seen a lot of happy-ever-afters in her life, but Conor and the magic of Christmas make her want to believe.
High-octane Chicago attorney Samantha Hayes is looking forward to some delicious food, fine wine, small town charm, and a break from her hectic big city life when she agrees to do a favor for her boss and help his younger brother with a lawsuit that’s been slapped on his family’s historic winery in River’s Edge. She’s not expecting that her sexy new client will have a smile that will melt her heart and remind her that there’s more to life than work.
Sam falls hard for Conor, his daughter and the small, friendly town, but can she trust her instincts and risk her heart? Sam hasn’t seen a lot of happy-ever-afters in her life, but Conor and the magic of Christmas make her want to believe.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2018
1024 people are currently reading
758 people want to read
About the author
Nan Reinhardt
24 books963 followersNan Reinhardt is a writer of romantic fiction for women in their prime. Yeah, women still fall in love and have sex, even after 45! Imagine! She is also a wife, a mom, a mother-in-law, and a grandmother. She’s been an antiques dealer, a bank teller, a stay-at-home mom, a secretary, and for the last 17 years, she’s earned her living as a freelance copyeditor and proofreader.
But writing is Nan’s first and most enduring passion. She can’t remember a time in her life when she wasn’t writing—she wrote her first romance novel at the age of ten, a love story between the most sophisticated person she knew at the time, her older sister (who was in high school and had a driver’s license!) and a member of Herman’s Hermits. If you remember who they are, you are Nan’s audience! She’s still writing romance, but now from the viewpoint of a wiser, slightly rumpled, menopausal woman who believes that love never ages, women only grow more interesting, and everybody needs a little sexy romance.
Her first novel Rule Number One is available at Amazon.com and Barnes&Noble.com. The other two, Once More From the Top and Sex and the Widow Miles — the first novels in the Women of Willow Bay series, are available exclusively at Amazon.
Visit Nan’s website: www.nanreinhardt.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authornanrei...
Twitter: @NanReinhardt
Talk to Nan at: nanleigh1@gmail.com
But writing is Nan’s first and most enduring passion. She can’t remember a time in her life when she wasn’t writing—she wrote her first romance novel at the age of ten, a love story between the most sophisticated person she knew at the time, her older sister (who was in high school and had a driver’s license!) and a member of Herman’s Hermits. If you remember who they are, you are Nan’s audience! She’s still writing romance, but now from the viewpoint of a wiser, slightly rumpled, menopausal woman who believes that love never ages, women only grow more interesting, and everybody needs a little sexy romance.
Her first novel Rule Number One is available at Amazon.com and Barnes&Noble.com. The other two, Once More From the Top and Sex and the Widow Miles — the first novels in the Women of Willow Bay series, are available exclusively at Amazon.
Visit Nan’s website: www.nanreinhardt.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authornanrei...
Twitter: @NanReinhardt
Talk to Nan at: nanleigh1@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
November 5, 2018
This is the first book I have ever read by this author and what a treat! I loved the small town feel to this book. It really captured all the familial charm, especially with the Christmas background. There were a lot of secondary characters in this book but I never felt overwhelmed with keeping them straight which is a credit to the author.
Sam and Conor are both likable characters. I loved their chemistry and growing attraction throughout the book. Conor is confident and so into Sam. His course remains steady throughout the whole book. I loved that.
This book is the first in a new series by this author and I'm really looking forward to reading the next books about the brothers!
Content: kissing that gets steamy, mild swearing, profanity.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sam and Conor are both likable characters. I loved their chemistry and growing attraction throughout the book. Conor is confident and so into Sam. His course remains steady throughout the whole book. I loved that.
This book is the first in a new series by this author and I'm really looking forward to reading the next books about the brothers!
Content: kissing that gets steamy, mild swearing, profanity.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 25, 2019
This book was so cute, I melted like a snowflake! ❤️
It was also the first Christmas related book I read this year and my heart was filled with joy while reading it.
The main characters were full of kindness and this is why the book was perfect. Well written, with the right amount of suspense when it was required... Bravo! 👏 Maybe the Christmas part was a little bit short, but still the buildup made it all worth it.
P. S. Ali was the sweetest! 😍
It was also the first Christmas related book I read this year and my heart was filled with joy while reading it.
The main characters were full of kindness and this is why the book was perfect. Well written, with the right amount of suspense when it was required... Bravo! 👏 Maybe the Christmas part was a little bit short, but still the buildup made it all worth it.
P. S. Ali was the sweetest! 😍
January 3, 2020
I’m surprised there wasn’t a excel spreadsheet of comparison chart between dead wife and h.
The whole book was Emmy this and Emmy that and how Emmy would tell the H to marry the h if she was alive. YOU FUCKING POTATOES! If Emmy was alive she’d hang him by balls if he even as much looked at the h cause he’d still be married to saintly fucking Emmy.
The whole book was Emmy this and Emmy that and how Emmy would tell the H to marry the h if she was alive. YOU FUCKING POTATOES! If Emmy was alive she’d hang him by balls if he even as much looked at the h cause he’d still be married to saintly fucking Emmy.
September 12, 2019
This is a very light romance with a small-town holiday setting. The best word for this is "cute". Samantha and Conor are pretty much perfect for each other. Indeed, they're more than a little perfect just in general. As is Conor's plot-moppet daughter, Ali. As is the small-town setting.
But I was in the mood for something light and Reinhardt at least lines everything up well and I found I cared about Sam and Con, even though the plot was thin in pretty much every way. I was a little frustrated with Sam's negative motivation* that had pretty much zero foundation. I mean, it's not like her job is all that interesting to her and we don't hear about friends or neighbors she's particularly attached to. So it rang really hollow when she'd talk about how hard it'd be to become attached to Con and Ali.
Anyway if, like me, you find yourself in the mood for a light holiday read, you could definitely do worse than this three-star read. This at least delivers a decent setting and likeable people and a romance where everything works out in the end.
A note about Chaste: The main characters make out and enjoy kissing and stuff. And there's a little camisole action. And Sam thinks about unsatisfying sex with an ex. But there's no mention of things moving beyond that stage—mostly because Sam is being a negatively-motivated idiot. It works for this story, though, because until the end, sex would have just been a big fat complication that neither was really ready for, anyway. So I count it as chaste, though higher sticklers might reasonably quibble.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
But I was in the mood for something light and Reinhardt at least lines everything up well and I found I cared about Sam and Con, even though the plot was thin in pretty much every way. I was a little frustrated with Sam's negative motivation* that had pretty much zero foundation. I mean, it's not like her job is all that interesting to her and we don't hear about friends or neighbors she's particularly attached to. So it rang really hollow when she'd talk about how hard it'd be to become attached to Con and Ali.
Anyway if, like me, you find yourself in the mood for a light holiday read, you could definitely do worse than this three-star read. This at least delivers a decent setting and likeable people and a romance where everything works out in the end.
A note about Chaste: The main characters make out and enjoy kissing and stuff. And there's a little camisole action. And Sam thinks about unsatisfying sex with an ex. But there's no mention of things moving beyond that stage—mostly because Sam is being a negatively-motivated idiot. It works for this story, though, because until the end, sex would have just been a big fat complication that neither was really ready for, anyway. So I count it as chaste, though higher sticklers might reasonably quibble.
* Negative Motivations: I kind of hate that the term "negative motivation" isn't widespread, yet. Since it isn't, I'm going to save off this little jag to append to my reviews that feature the term. Jennifer Crusie blogged about it a bit back (or, if that link doesn't work, here's a cache of the original) and it changed how I understand story. The problem with the term is that if you've never heard it before, you'd assume it meant motivations that are harmful or immoral. Not so. What it refers to is motivations not to do something. The thing is that many of us are motivated to not do things for a lot of different, perfectly valid and reasonable, reasons. The problem is that in a story motivations to not do things are a huge drag on the plot—particularly considering the fact that most negative motivations are overcome by the character simply deciding they don't care any more (or, rather, that they do care and are now motivated to do the thing). So not only do you have a counter to action but you also have a situation where to overcome it, all a character has to do is change their mind. Which means eventually, the reader is rooting for the character to get over him/herself already and do the thing we want them to do. Conflict drives story. Conflict between a reader and a main character drives readers away from story.
November 28, 2019
Samantha Hayes is a hot-shot lawyer in Chicago, but she needs a reprieve from the ultra stressful cases she’s been dealt as of lately. So Sam agrees to help her boss out with a family legal matter. Sam is excited to get a break from city life and soak up the holiday cheer in the small town of River’s Edge.
Conor Flaherty’s wife passed away two years ago and now he’s a single dad to his 4-year old daughter, Ali. He also runs his family’s winery: Four Irish Brothers Winery. But after his dad’s recent death, their family’s been hit by a lawsuit. His step-mom Charlotte is fighting for a stake in a winery she never had a part of, but he suspects it’s his step-siblings (not Charlotte) behind the lawsuit.
When Conor and Sam get together for their meeting, he realizes Sam is the beautiful woman he helped change a flat tire in a rain storm. And even though his heart has been closed off ever since his wife died, he finds himself wanting to spend more time with Sam.
Sam gets wrapped up in the holiday festivities in River’s Edge and Conor’s warm company. But after the holidays, Sam’s due back in Chicago and Conor is settled in River’s Edge. Will their romance have a lasting impression or will it end after the holiday season is over?
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt is the first book in the Four Irish Brothers Winery series. This was a short and sweet holiday romance. It was full of holiday cheer that’ll surely get you in the mood for Christmas. It didn’t have a lot of emotional depth and I didn’t fall in love with Conor and Sam’s romance, but I knew going into it that it’d be a fluffier read. Still an enjoyable holiday romance! 3/5 stars.
Conor Flaherty’s wife passed away two years ago and now he’s a single dad to his 4-year old daughter, Ali. He also runs his family’s winery: Four Irish Brothers Winery. But after his dad’s recent death, their family’s been hit by a lawsuit. His step-mom Charlotte is fighting for a stake in a winery she never had a part of, but he suspects it’s his step-siblings (not Charlotte) behind the lawsuit.
When Conor and Sam get together for their meeting, he realizes Sam is the beautiful woman he helped change a flat tire in a rain storm. And even though his heart has been closed off ever since his wife died, he finds himself wanting to spend more time with Sam.
Sam gets wrapped up in the holiday festivities in River’s Edge and Conor’s warm company. But after the holidays, Sam’s due back in Chicago and Conor is settled in River’s Edge. Will their romance have a lasting impression or will it end after the holiday season is over?
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt is the first book in the Four Irish Brothers Winery series. This was a short and sweet holiday romance. It was full of holiday cheer that’ll surely get you in the mood for Christmas. It didn’t have a lot of emotional depth and I didn’t fall in love with Conor and Sam’s romance, but I knew going into it that it’d be a fluffier read. Still an enjoyable holiday romance! 3/5 stars.
December 11, 2018
Rating: 4.5/5
Well I have another author who I need to keep an eye out for - I loved this story and can't wait to read more in this series and by Nan Reinhardt.
The Flahertys are four Irish brothers who, you've guessed it, have a winery. Their ownership of the winery is under threat as the children of their step mother are encouraging her to claim a share in it after the death of her husband. Samantha, aka Sam, has been sent by her boss, another of the Flaherty brothers, to see if she can help sort it all out with his younger brother, Conor, who runs it.
This story introduces them all but the main focus is on Conor, a widower with a delightful, precocious, scene-stealing daughter, Ali. Sam hadn't anticipated falling for the handsome Conor and he certainly hadn't expected to feel attracted to anyone else after his wife's death. He has a smile that she finds irresistible but should she keep fighting their attraction? Can she ever have a place of her own in the lives of Conor or Ali or is too much of theirs filled with memories? She's never been a mother and doubts her ability to take on the role effectively. Can Conor help her overcome her fears for them to find love and romance together as Christmas approaches? Can she help him keep the family winery?
I found this an endearing story with brilliant, believable characters and scenarios. The angst and turmoil, guilt and attraction, all have key roles in this emotional Christmas romance. Sam has to realise that life is a journey - there are many possibilities but no guarantees, however love is definitely worth taking a chance on. It is a loving, tender story of family, relationships and community in the lovely small town of River's Edge. I can't wait to read more by this author and in this series! This is a delightful festive read that I highly recommend to anyone who is looking for an endearing Christmas romance with great characters, pace and plot.
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
Well I have another author who I need to keep an eye out for - I loved this story and can't wait to read more in this series and by Nan Reinhardt.
The Flahertys are four Irish brothers who, you've guessed it, have a winery. Their ownership of the winery is under threat as the children of their step mother are encouraging her to claim a share in it after the death of her husband. Samantha, aka Sam, has been sent by her boss, another of the Flaherty brothers, to see if she can help sort it all out with his younger brother, Conor, who runs it.
This story introduces them all but the main focus is on Conor, a widower with a delightful, precocious, scene-stealing daughter, Ali. Sam hadn't anticipated falling for the handsome Conor and he certainly hadn't expected to feel attracted to anyone else after his wife's death. He has a smile that she finds irresistible but should she keep fighting their attraction? Can she ever have a place of her own in the lives of Conor or Ali or is too much of theirs filled with memories? She's never been a mother and doubts her ability to take on the role effectively. Can Conor help her overcome her fears for them to find love and romance together as Christmas approaches? Can she help him keep the family winery?
I found this an endearing story with brilliant, believable characters and scenarios. The angst and turmoil, guilt and attraction, all have key roles in this emotional Christmas romance. Sam has to realise that life is a journey - there are many possibilities but no guarantees, however love is definitely worth taking a chance on. It is a loving, tender story of family, relationships and community in the lovely small town of River's Edge. I can't wait to read more by this author and in this series! This is a delightful festive read that I highly recommend to anyone who is looking for an endearing Christmas romance with great characters, pace and plot.
I requested and was given a copy of this book, via NetGalley. This is my honest review of the book after choosing to read it.
October 30, 2018
This was great. The characters were unlike me in terms of careers, social status, and family but they were well developed and emotionally relatable. Backstory and character development moved the plot forward. The level of description let me picture people and places in my mind. The plot didn't require any suspension of disbelief and didn't rely on prolonged angst. It moved along at a pleasant pace to a satisfying conclusion.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley and I offer my honest opinion in response.
September 26, 2018
My first book from Nan Reinhardt and I’m glad it was that start of a series. I look forward for the next book to come out. This was a typical romance book with a happy ending. Right from the beginning I found this book was easy to read, enjoyable, and I didn’t want to put it down.
*I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 7, 2018
Very sweet and heart-warming story that's de rigueur for the holiday season. A family-oriented insta-love.
December 15, 2018
What a fun and sweet holiday read with great characterizations. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching relationships bloom and tough challenges unwound.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Synopsis from the Publisher/NetGalley.com
Winemaker and single father Conor Flaherty is determined to make this Christmas holiday special for his daughter even though his family’s winery, Four Irish Brothers, is facing some challenges.
High-octane Chicago attorney Samantha Hayes is looking forward to some delicious food, fine wine, small town charm, and a break from her hectic big city life when she agrees to do a favor for her boss and help his younger brother with a lawsuit that’s been slapped on his family’s historic winery in River’s Edge. She’s not expecting that her sexy new client will have a smile that will melt her heart and remind her that there’s more to life than work.
Sam falls hard for Conor, his daughter and the small, friendly town, but can she trust her instincts and risk her heart? Sam hasn’t seen a lot of happy-ever-afters in her life, but Conor and the magic of Christmas make her want to believe.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Synopsis from the Publisher/NetGalley.com
Winemaker and single father Conor Flaherty is determined to make this Christmas holiday special for his daughter even though his family’s winery, Four Irish Brothers, is facing some challenges.
High-octane Chicago attorney Samantha Hayes is looking forward to some delicious food, fine wine, small town charm, and a break from her hectic big city life when she agrees to do a favor for her boss and help his younger brother with a lawsuit that’s been slapped on his family’s historic winery in River’s Edge. She’s not expecting that her sexy new client will have a smile that will melt her heart and remind her that there’s more to life than work.
Sam falls hard for Conor, his daughter and the small, friendly town, but can she trust her instincts and risk her heart? Sam hasn’t seen a lot of happy-ever-afters in her life, but Conor and the magic of Christmas make her want to believe.
November 6, 2018
2.98
This is definitely a cute story, complete with a precocious 4-year-old girl who is, of course, wiser than her years (and has an amazing grasp on the English language).
I am interested in this family and the secondary characters but the legal drama didn't feel all that urgent as it is a background issue but as a reader, I think I knew where it was headed before it even got there. I also, and I hate to say this, didn't feel the chemistry between Sam and Connor.
While things did happen between the mains pretty quickly, I wanted to read more about Sam's perspective after Sam should've fought a bit harder with herself (and I would've loved to see the scene where she shouted at the idiot clients) and spending at least two days with Bette would have been awesome and perhaps more realistic.
Connor really needed to try harder to give up the ghost. Yes, there is something sweet about a widower who loves his dead wife/partner but would've liked to see some sort of conversation between Sam and Connor when he says that he will always love Emmy but that there's room for both - or some sort of phrase, mostly so that you can signal the casual reader that there has been a shift and Sam's fear is assuaged. Or at least taken down some of the photos in the living room. There wasn't a lot of time for development so it makes sense that Sam still believes Connor is in love with his dead wife. Because he is. It's just perhaps that he's not in love with her.
Individually these characters aren't bad and they are interesting enough that I wish there had been more but I'm still not sold on the both of them together. There was something missing between them and I didn't feel that spike of chemistry. I liked the slow roll of the relationship but I felt, as a reader, that I was left out of the good stuff which was presumably happening in the background (or edited out). However, as this is a short book, some of the blame can be laid at the feet of the editor who asked for a certain amount of words.
All in all, it's a cute Christmas book but it's not one that I would re-read. I could see it on Hallmark or one of those Christian channels (in the sense that this is a fairly clean book).
Christmas Rating: ❄️❄️❄️ 3 snowflakes
2018 New Christmas Catagory Rating System:
. a lump of coal = inert and perhaps useful in someone else's hand
❄️ snowflakes - nice but still left me cold
☕ hot chocolate- sweet, traditional, warm, cozy
🎄christmas trees - nice, traditional, family friendly, heartwarming
🍷red wine- warm, thrilling, hot, and satisfying
This is definitely a cute story, complete with a precocious 4-year-old girl who is, of course, wiser than her years (and has an amazing grasp on the English language).
I am interested in this family and the secondary characters but the legal drama didn't feel all that urgent as it is a background issue but as a reader, I think I knew where it was headed before it even got there. I also, and I hate to say this, didn't feel the chemistry between Sam and Connor.
While things did happen between the mains pretty quickly, I wanted to read more about Sam's perspective after Sam should've fought a bit harder with herself (and I would've loved to see the scene where she shouted at the idiot clients) and spending at least two days with Bette would have been awesome and perhaps more realistic.
Connor really needed to try harder to give up the ghost. Yes, there is something sweet about a widower who loves his dead wife/partner but would've liked to see some sort of conversation between Sam and Connor when he says that he will always love Emmy but that there's room for both - or some sort of phrase, mostly so that you can signal the casual reader that there has been a shift and Sam's fear is assuaged. Or at least taken down some of the photos in the living room. There wasn't a lot of time for development so it makes sense that Sam still believes Connor is in love with his dead wife. Because he is. It's just perhaps that he's not in love with her.
Individually these characters aren't bad and they are interesting enough that I wish there had been more but I'm still not sold on the both of them together. There was something missing between them and I didn't feel that spike of chemistry. I liked the slow roll of the relationship but I felt, as a reader, that I was left out of the good stuff which was presumably happening in the background (or edited out). However, as this is a short book, some of the blame can be laid at the feet of the editor who asked for a certain amount of words.
All in all, it's a cute Christmas book but it's not one that I would re-read. I could see it on Hallmark or one of those Christian channels (in the sense that this is a fairly clean book).
Christmas Rating: ❄️❄️❄️ 3 snowflakes
2018 New Christmas Catagory Rating System:
. a lump of coal = inert and perhaps useful in someone else's hand
❄️ snowflakes - nice but still left me cold
☕ hot chocolate- sweet, traditional, warm, cozy
🎄christmas trees - nice, traditional, family friendly, heartwarming
🍷red wine- warm, thrilling, hot, and satisfying
October 29, 2018
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt
Winemaker and single father Conor Flaherty is determined to make this Christmas holiday special for his daughter even though his family’s winery, Four Irish Brothers, is facing some challenges.
High-octane Chicago attorney Samantha Hayes is looking forward to some delicious food, fine wine, small town charm, and a break from her hectic big city life when she agrees to do a favor for her boss and help his younger brother with a lawsuit that’s been slapped on his family’s historic winery in River’s Edge. She’s not expecting that her sexy new client will have a smile that will melt her heart and remind her that there’s more to life than work.
Sam falls hard for Conor, his daughter and the small, friendly town, but can she trust her instincts and risk her heart? Sam hasn’t seen a lot of happy-ever-afters in her life, but Conor and the magic of Christmas make her want to believe.
This is Samantha Hayes and Conor Flaherty's story.
It was all Millie’s fault. The roadside sign—Millie’s Pie Emporium—had enticed Samantha Hayes off the interstate and onto the country road where she was now stranded. In spite of the flat tire and the pouring rain, she smiled, remembering the delicious slice of pecan pie she’d had at Millie’s, along with amazing chicken and dumplings, fresh peas, and biscuits that were pure poetry.
Her mother would scoff at taking a detour for something as mundane as pie, but then she’d never been a foodie like Sam. Mother ate for fuel, nothing more, while Sam ate purely for pleasure. Her friend Suz hated the fact Sam could eat like a trucker and remain slim and had warned her since eighth grade that one day her hummingbird metabolism would give out.
Just last week at their monthly lunch, Suz shook her head as Sam scarfed down a double-fudge chocolate sundae while Suz primly spooned up a single scoop of low-fat vanilla.
Conor Flaherty squinted through the rain-blurred windshield, slowed to a crawl, and muttered a curse. Some idiot had pulled over to the side of the road, but not far enough. The back end of a sporty little vehicle stuck out over the edge of the pavement and he had to veer into the opposite lane to avoid it. He crept past and did a double-take at the scene before him.
The car’s hazard lights were blinking, and a drenched woman bent over the open trunk, clearly struggling with the spare tire. He pulled his SUV off the highway in front of the cockeyed sports car. He could see the shredded right front tire when he glanced in the rearview mirror.
“Guess we’d better see if we can lend a hand. Hold down the fort, Ali,” he said as he zipped up his jacket and grabbed the cap from the seat beside him. “I’m going to see if I can help this lady, okay?”
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
I highly recommend reading.
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books Nan Reinhardt.
Nan's Books with Tule:
A Small Town Christmas
Four Irish Brothers Winery
Winemaker and single father Conor Flaherty is determined to make this Christmas holiday special for his daughter even though his family’s winery, Four Irish Brothers, is facing some challenges.
High-octane Chicago attorney Samantha Hayes is looking forward to some delicious food, fine wine, small town charm, and a break from her hectic big city life when she agrees to do a favor for her boss and help his younger brother with a lawsuit that’s been slapped on his family’s historic winery in River’s Edge. She’s not expecting that her sexy new client will have a smile that will melt her heart and remind her that there’s more to life than work.
Sam falls hard for Conor, his daughter and the small, friendly town, but can she trust her instincts and risk her heart? Sam hasn’t seen a lot of happy-ever-afters in her life, but Conor and the magic of Christmas make her want to believe.
This is Samantha Hayes and Conor Flaherty's story.
It was all Millie’s fault. The roadside sign—Millie’s Pie Emporium—had enticed Samantha Hayes off the interstate and onto the country road where she was now stranded. In spite of the flat tire and the pouring rain, she smiled, remembering the delicious slice of pecan pie she’d had at Millie’s, along with amazing chicken and dumplings, fresh peas, and biscuits that were pure poetry.
Her mother would scoff at taking a detour for something as mundane as pie, but then she’d never been a foodie like Sam. Mother ate for fuel, nothing more, while Sam ate purely for pleasure. Her friend Suz hated the fact Sam could eat like a trucker and remain slim and had warned her since eighth grade that one day her hummingbird metabolism would give out.
Just last week at their monthly lunch, Suz shook her head as Sam scarfed down a double-fudge chocolate sundae while Suz primly spooned up a single scoop of low-fat vanilla.
Conor Flaherty squinted through the rain-blurred windshield, slowed to a crawl, and muttered a curse. Some idiot had pulled over to the side of the road, but not far enough. The back end of a sporty little vehicle stuck out over the edge of the pavement and he had to veer into the opposite lane to avoid it. He crept past and did a double-take at the scene before him.
The car’s hazard lights were blinking, and a drenched woman bent over the open trunk, clearly struggling with the spare tire. He pulled his SUV off the highway in front of the cockeyed sports car. He could see the shredded right front tire when he glanced in the rearview mirror.
“Guess we’d better see if we can lend a hand. Hold down the fort, Ali,” he said as he zipped up his jacket and grabbed the cap from the seat beside him. “I’m going to see if I can help this lady, okay?”
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
I highly recommend reading.
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books Nan Reinhardt.
Nan's Books with Tule:
A Small Town Christmas
Four Irish Brothers Winery
November 27, 2018
Sam (Samantha) is a high-powered attorney in need of something less taxing after a tragedy occurred during her last case. So the case her boss assigns her - helping his own family fight their stepsiblings for ownership of their family winery, seems to be just the thing to help her get some much needed r&r. But before she can even make it into town, her tire blows on the side of the road and strands her in the pouring rain. Luckily for her, Conor is driving by with his precious (and precocious) daughter in the backseat. As he rescues the beautiful woman, he suddenly realizes he's noticing a woman for the first time since his wife passed. But, he'll never see the gorgeous woman again, and it leaves him with a bit of regret.
Until the high-powered attorney his brother sent to help out their family turns out to be the beautiful woman he saved on the side of the road. Can a big city attorney and a grieving widower and single father make a relationship work this holiday season? Or will Sam head back to the city and leave them both with a broken heart?
I really liked this sweet, heartwarming and clean romance. It's full of small town charm, and Sam and Conor are a great couple. The secondary cast rounds out the story, and are interesting enough on their own that I can't wait for their stories, too. So if you like your holiday stories à la Hallmark Channel, A Small Town Christmas should be right up your alley.
ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
October 28, 2018
LOVED! I'm so excited to see this is only the beginning of what I expect to be a great series to read. Coner and Samantha are amazing characters but Conor's young daughter Ali steals the show. It's been two years since Conor lost his wife and he just now feels himself coming back to life when he meets the new family attorney Samantha "Sam" Hayes. Sam needs a break from her high stress job in Chicago so handling a case in small town Rivers Edge sounds like the perfect thing for the holiday season. Little does she know what or who she'll find in this little town.
This is a very well done book and one I highly recommend.
This is a very well done book and one I highly recommend.
July 14, 2019
This book very much resembled a Hallmark movie for me - it was cheesy and corny and syrupy sweet. That being said, right before the holidays is the best time to feel that syrupy sweet emotion and I did enjoy the book. Big city lawyer falls in love with a small town winemaker and single father - what could be sweeter than that? The sweet town and the friendly residents and their holiday celebrations really got me into the Christmas spirit. The plot was a little too anti-climactic for me, there wasn't a lot of tension for me in the story. Still I enjoyed it and I'd recommend it for a sweet holiday read.
October 30, 2018
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt is a heartwarming story, with delightful characters, especially one four-year-old, and a solid plot. I enjoyed the Christmas setting but this story of an estate will, and lazy stepsiblings could happen anytime of the year. It did make the lawsuit seem even more sadly awful by having it happen during the holiday season of gratitude, peace and love.
Single father Conor Flaherty is a heart stealer all on his own but no one could resist falling for this dynamic duo when his daughter Ali is added. Sam Hayes is big city lawyer, but she is not cold or heartless but wonderful and conscientious. I loved the setting in River Bend on the Ohio River, wanting to know more of the area that is depicted. The community, the Four Irish Brothers Winery and the supporting characters are written to make you want to take a visit there.
The other three of the four brothers of the Flaherty family are all waiting for their story along with me. Conor’s was a charming read so I want more of this family soon. Fans of Debbie Macomber can rejoice because Nan Reinhardt is another author to add to your TBL. Hallmark should get to filming this story now, it would be perfect for their holiday line-up.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Single father Conor Flaherty is a heart stealer all on his own but no one could resist falling for this dynamic duo when his daughter Ali is added. Sam Hayes is big city lawyer, but she is not cold or heartless but wonderful and conscientious. I loved the setting in River Bend on the Ohio River, wanting to know more of the area that is depicted. The community, the Four Irish Brothers Winery and the supporting characters are written to make you want to take a visit there.
The other three of the four brothers of the Flaherty family are all waiting for their story along with me. Conor’s was a charming read so I want more of this family soon. Fans of Debbie Macomber can rejoice because Nan Reinhardt is another author to add to your TBL. Hallmark should get to filming this story now, it would be perfect for their holiday line-up.
4.5 Stars
An ARC of the book was given to me by the publisher through Net Galley which I voluntarily chose to read and reviewed. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 6, 2018
I’ve just loved A Small Town Christmas! This story of second chances for widowed winemaker Connor Flaherty and his four year-old daughter Ali is tender, heartwarming and an utter delight. I loved those two from the moment I met them, Connor with his heart-melting tenderness towards his little daughter and Ali with her impish smile and uber-cuteness.
Attorney Sam Hayes found her way into my heart pretty quickly too. It was wonderful to see someone who was so thoroughly efficient, yet so unsure of herself slowly unwind and blossom and all because of an unexpected immediate attraction between herself and Connor.
I loved the setting in small-town River Bend on the Ohio River. There’s something about small towns that gets me every time and River Bend has it in spades - people that genuinely care for each other, are interested in each other’s welfare and do what they can to make life pleasant and comfortable for their friends and neighbours.
The story is beautifully written and compelling enough to keep you turning the pages. I couldn’t avoid caring about Sam, Connor and Ali. I could wax lyrical for ages but suffice to say if you love sweet, compassionate, heart warming Christmas stories then this one is sure to please.
Attorney Sam Hayes found her way into my heart pretty quickly too. It was wonderful to see someone who was so thoroughly efficient, yet so unsure of herself slowly unwind and blossom and all because of an unexpected immediate attraction between herself and Connor.
I loved the setting in small-town River Bend on the Ohio River. There’s something about small towns that gets me every time and River Bend has it in spades - people that genuinely care for each other, are interested in each other’s welfare and do what they can to make life pleasant and comfortable for their friends and neighbours.
The story is beautifully written and compelling enough to keep you turning the pages. I couldn’t avoid caring about Sam, Connor and Ali. I could wax lyrical for ages but suffice to say if you love sweet, compassionate, heart warming Christmas stories then this one is sure to please.
October 29, 2018
Wow, what a great romance from new to me author Nan Reinhardt. I love the holiday season, brotherly love and wineries. So after reading the book blurb, A Small Town Christmas became a must read. It is a wonderful book, replete with great characters, a plot that twists and turns in all the right places, and an intoxicating love story.
Samantha Hayes is a successful and ruthless divorce attorney in Chicago. Due to an unbelievably harrowing and tragic situation, she needs a break from her life. So her boss asks her to defend his family's winery in a lawsuit filed by their stepmother. Sam sets up camp in the small town of River's Edge, where everyone is friendly and personable. Her client, Conor Flaherty of Four Irish Brothers Winery, is a widower and a single dad. Sam, Conor and Conor's four-year-old daughter Ali share an immediate bond, and the magic of Christmas season brings them together.
This is a heartwarming love story that will cause all your senses to remain on high alert. Ms. Reinhardt is an excellent storyteller and her words kept me captivated from beginning to end. This is an engaging holiday romance that should not be missed.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
Samantha Hayes is a successful and ruthless divorce attorney in Chicago. Due to an unbelievably harrowing and tragic situation, she needs a break from her life. So her boss asks her to defend his family's winery in a lawsuit filed by their stepmother. Sam sets up camp in the small town of River's Edge, where everyone is friendly and personable. Her client, Conor Flaherty of Four Irish Brothers Winery, is a widower and a single dad. Sam, Conor and Conor's four-year-old daughter Ali share an immediate bond, and the magic of Christmas season brings them together.
This is a heartwarming love story that will cause all your senses to remain on high alert. Ms. Reinhardt is an excellent storyteller and her words kept me captivated from beginning to end. This is an engaging holiday romance that should not be missed.
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley.
November 2, 2018
In need of genuine, heartfelt holiday romance? Tis the season to read of hearth and home, stories that remind us of what matters and why we fall in love. Nan Reinhardt's "A Small Town Christmas" spins a fresh twist on a familiar tale.
Lawyer and single 30-something Sam is given a case which takes her to her boss' family winery. Along the way, she meets by accident or providence, the very brother she is on her way to see. This is the perfect meet cute for Sam and Conor, both lost in their own ways. Rather than looking for love, love finds them.
I loved the Four Irish Brothers concept, with their rich family history and how the author pulls you instantly into Conor's world. A heartwarming holiday read, you'll find yourself falling in love with Sam as she steps into the kind of small town everyone longs to escape to. "A Small Town Christmas" slows down the pace while tempting the senses as Sam samples wine, one very memorable chocolate tasting, and one fine Irish hot daddy.
Pure, well-written escapism at its best. Maybe it's Christmas, or the talent Reinhard utilizes to pen characters you can't help but dream along with. Just like Conor and Sam, you'll be tempted to believe love deserves second chances, and it's never too late to start over.
Lawyer and single 30-something Sam is given a case which takes her to her boss' family winery. Along the way, she meets by accident or providence, the very brother she is on her way to see. This is the perfect meet cute for Sam and Conor, both lost in their own ways. Rather than looking for love, love finds them.
I loved the Four Irish Brothers concept, with their rich family history and how the author pulls you instantly into Conor's world. A heartwarming holiday read, you'll find yourself falling in love with Sam as she steps into the kind of small town everyone longs to escape to. "A Small Town Christmas" slows down the pace while tempting the senses as Sam samples wine, one very memorable chocolate tasting, and one fine Irish hot daddy.
Pure, well-written escapism at its best. Maybe it's Christmas, or the talent Reinhard utilizes to pen characters you can't help but dream along with. Just like Conor and Sam, you'll be tempted to believe love deserves second chances, and it's never too late to start over.
October 7, 2018
The Four Irish Brothers Winery series starts off with Conor Flaherty’s story. In this book, Conor and his brothers are fighting to save their family winery from their step-mother who is contesting their father’s will.
Samantha Hayes is a Chicago lawyer and is representing the brothers. Sparks fly from the minute Conor and Sam meet, but neither of them is interested in a relationship. Conor is a widower raising his little girl, Ali, on his own and Sam is just interested in her career at the moment. The more time Sam and Conor spend together, the more they realize they could be good together. Sam is afraid she wouldn’t be the best mother for Conor’s daughter and this causes her to run when her job is over. But once Sam is back at home, she can’t get Conor, Ali, the charming town and its people off her mind. She soon finds herself heading back just in time for Christmas.
If this book is any indication of how the rest of the series will go, I can’t wait to read more. The author wrote characters that I was instantly drawn to and couldn’t wait to learn more about. The description of the town made me want to be there. The story was fun and interesting, though emotional in parts. I will anxiously be waiting for the next book.
Samantha Hayes is a Chicago lawyer and is representing the brothers. Sparks fly from the minute Conor and Sam meet, but neither of them is interested in a relationship. Conor is a widower raising his little girl, Ali, on his own and Sam is just interested in her career at the moment. The more time Sam and Conor spend together, the more they realize they could be good together. Sam is afraid she wouldn’t be the best mother for Conor’s daughter and this causes her to run when her job is over. But once Sam is back at home, she can’t get Conor, Ali, the charming town and its people off her mind. She soon finds herself heading back just in time for Christmas.
If this book is any indication of how the rest of the series will go, I can’t wait to read more. The author wrote characters that I was instantly drawn to and couldn’t wait to learn more about. The description of the town made me want to be there. The story was fun and interesting, though emotional in parts. I will anxiously be waiting for the next book.
October 28, 2018
A Small Town Christmas by Nan Reinhardt
Four Irish Brothers Winery #1
Samantha and Connor meet when her tire shreds and she is stuck at the side of the road. There was attraction between the two but with a chance meeting that ended with goodbye rather than the exchange of names and phone numbers how could anything like romance ever be expected? Well, in romances one definitely SHOULD expect more and that is just what happens.
Connor has been a widow for two years and has a four year old daughter. He runs the winery and has three brothers scattered across the country. The brothers are tight and there for one another and at the moment they are dealing with an inheritance law suit and that is where Samantha’s lawyerly skills will come in handy. The two spend time together eating, talking, socializing, caring for Connor’s daughter and dealing with the law suit but whether or not their attraction can become more is dependent on Samantha being able to believe that she is good wife and mother material and that takes her a bit of time to come to terms with.
Thoroughly enjoyable sweet romance that provided a HEA for everyone at Christmas and look forward to finding out how the other brothers find their partners.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
Four Irish Brothers Winery #1
Samantha and Connor meet when her tire shreds and she is stuck at the side of the road. There was attraction between the two but with a chance meeting that ended with goodbye rather than the exchange of names and phone numbers how could anything like romance ever be expected? Well, in romances one definitely SHOULD expect more and that is just what happens.
Connor has been a widow for two years and has a four year old daughter. He runs the winery and has three brothers scattered across the country. The brothers are tight and there for one another and at the moment they are dealing with an inheritance law suit and that is where Samantha’s lawyerly skills will come in handy. The two spend time together eating, talking, socializing, caring for Connor’s daughter and dealing with the law suit but whether or not their attraction can become more is dependent on Samantha being able to believe that she is good wife and mother material and that takes her a bit of time to come to terms with.
Thoroughly enjoyable sweet romance that provided a HEA for everyone at Christmas and look forward to finding out how the other brothers find their partners.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
February 5, 2022
A Small Town Christmas is an absolutely delightful introduction to the eponymous River's Edge, its wonderful Four Irish Brothers Winery, and the town's caring and fun-loving inhabitants. Big city lawyer Samantha Hayes comes to town for a short stay to help out with a family inheritance legal squabble and falls under the spell of all three: the town, the winery, and its populace, the winery's primary owner, Conor, in particular. Conor and his four-year-old daughter, Ali, have struggled since the death of Conor's life-long love, Emmy, two years earlier. But Christmas magic is in the air, and Sam's short stay is prolonged as her heart begins to put down roots it has never known before. I loved this book and look forward to reading about the other three brothers and the entire population of River's Edge, a most welcoming small town.
September 24, 2018
An excellent start to what promises to be a series that should leave you waiting for the next book to be released. With tenderness (in the form of a four year little girl), the humor only brotherly love can bring on, and all the characters who’ll steal your heart, small town living has never seemed so appealing.
Conor and Sam are the recipients of the miracle of the healing grace of love, and the machinations of family and friends. They find themselves not standing a chance of not following through on their growing attraction for each other. The door has now been left open for the remaining Flaherty brothers to find their own HEA.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Conor and Sam are the recipients of the miracle of the healing grace of love, and the machinations of family and friends. They find themselves not standing a chance of not following through on their growing attraction for each other. The door has now been left open for the remaining Flaherty brothers to find their own HEA.
This ARC book was complimentary, provided by the Publisher and NetGalley. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
October 24, 2018
If you are looking for a touching, sweet, at times heartbreaking but also heartwarming clean romance, this is the one for you.
The story centers around Conor Flaherty and Samantha/Sam Hayes. Conor is a widower with a four year old and part owner of a winery with his brothers. Sam is an attorney that works with Conor’s brother , Sean. He sends her to the winery when a lawsuit is presented to the family by their step-mother. Little did they know that the unexpected meeting in the middle of the night and later when they officially meet, would change their lives forever. Will Conor be able to let go of his grief and open his heart, and will Sam let go of her insecurities and allow herself to fall in love?
I am looking forward to more stories in this series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The story centers around Conor Flaherty and Samantha/Sam Hayes. Conor is a widower with a four year old and part owner of a winery with his brothers. Sam is an attorney that works with Conor’s brother , Sean. He sends her to the winery when a lawsuit is presented to the family by their step-mother. Little did they know that the unexpected meeting in the middle of the night and later when they officially meet, would change their lives forever. Will Conor be able to let go of his grief and open his heart, and will Sam let go of her insecurities and allow herself to fall in love?
I am looking forward to more stories in this series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Tule Publishing. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 29, 2020
This was the first book I’ve read by the author and it was a very touching and heart warming book.
The instant connection Conor and Sam felt, before they even knew who the other was, was amazing, as was the love Conor showed to his daughter when he turned his car around so she could see him help fix the tyre.
I love the whole town and the love and friendship show, the banter between the brothers and Aunt Bette. Conor dealing with his loss of Emmy was dealt with sensitivity and beautifully. I especially liked his reasoning that she was still with him and helping him navigate his new relationship with Sam.
I can’t wait to read more about this couple and the other residences in the next book where Sean hopefully gets his happy ever after just like his brother.
The instant connection Conor and Sam felt, before they even knew who the other was, was amazing, as was the love Conor showed to his daughter when he turned his car around so she could see him help fix the tyre.
I love the whole town and the love and friendship show, the banter between the brothers and Aunt Bette. Conor dealing with his loss of Emmy was dealt with sensitivity and beautifully. I especially liked his reasoning that she was still with him and helping him navigate his new relationship with Sam.
I can’t wait to read more about this couple and the other residences in the next book where Sean hopefully gets his happy ever after just like his brother.
October 13, 2018
This was such a sweet Christmas romance book. It was set in a small town where every knows everyone. Samantha and Conor meet when he helps her change the flat tire on her car. Neither realizing that Samantha is the lawyer that Conor's brother sent to help with the lawsuit. There is such spark and such connection between these 2 from their very first meeting. You throw in Ali, Conor's adorable daughter and all the interfering towns people and you have yourself one great read. It was such a fun read. I cannot wait to see what brother the next book is about. Thanks Net Galley. I voluntarily reviewed this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2019
My first time reading this author. I absolutely loved this book. It was funny, heartbreaking, and oh so heartwarming. I can’t wait to read the others in this series.
Conor Flaherty is a winemaker, widow, and single father. He and his brothers face there step mothers law suit against her rights to the winery.
His one brother sends his associate Samantha Hayes to Conor to help him out. What Conor does not expect is that the attorney to be a women. Yes he expects Sam not Samantha.
What transpires is something interesting. Conor shares some of his wine he has never shared with anyone. Even his bothers are shocked. Soon Samantha is falling for Conor, and his daughter.
She falls in love with the small town of River’s Edge.
Buy the book and see what happens.
I’m so glad I did.
Conor Flaherty is a winemaker, widow, and single father. He and his brothers face there step mothers law suit against her rights to the winery.
His one brother sends his associate Samantha Hayes to Conor to help him out. What Conor does not expect is that the attorney to be a women. Yes he expects Sam not Samantha.
What transpires is something interesting. Conor shares some of his wine he has never shared with anyone. Even his bothers are shocked. Soon Samantha is falling for Conor, and his daughter.
She falls in love with the small town of River’s Edge.
Buy the book and see what happens.
I’m so glad I did.
October 31, 2018
Charming
This sweet romance has that strong sense of place that is one of Rhinehart’s strengths. Low on angst and pretty predictable, it is still an engaging read about a charming small town in Ohio. I like that Sam and Conor are a bit more seasoned than the usual run of romance couples. It was also interesting to read about Ohio wines, the place and the setting were lovely. The sweetness was a bit overwhelming, and Ali is most definitely a plot moppet, but all this could perhaps be excused in a Christmas romance. It was kind of a Hallmark-movie sort of book, if that’s your thing, pleasant while reading, if fairly forgettable.
This sweet romance has that strong sense of place that is one of Rhinehart’s strengths. Low on angst and pretty predictable, it is still an engaging read about a charming small town in Ohio. I like that Sam and Conor are a bit more seasoned than the usual run of romance couples. It was also interesting to read about Ohio wines, the place and the setting were lovely. The sweetness was a bit overwhelming, and Ali is most definitely a plot moppet, but all this could perhaps be excused in a Christmas romance. It was kind of a Hallmark-movie sort of book, if that’s your thing, pleasant while reading, if fairly forgettable.
September 19, 2018
Can I say I imagine the entire book as a Hallmark movie??
Anyway... This is the first Nan's book I ever read, I'm glad I did. This is a lovely Christmas story about fall in love again and trying new things. The author describes every little detail so perfectly that would make you never want to stop reading.
Her characters are so easy to fall for them, I have a special place for the four Irish brothers. I want more story from them.
Anyway... This is the first Nan's book I ever read, I'm glad I did. This is a lovely Christmas story about fall in love again and trying new things. The author describes every little detail so perfectly that would make you never want to stop reading.
Her characters are so easy to fall for them, I have a special place for the four Irish brothers. I want more story from them.
September 23, 2018
This is a book about new beginnings, new Love and saying “No “ to selfish children.
Char’s children force her to initiate a law suit against her stepchildren for a fifth inheritance of the winery. This is what brought Sam to Rivers Edge to act as counsel for Sean and his brothers. That is how she meets Conor and his daughter Ali, there first meeting is a rainy one involving a flat tire.
Read on to find out how Conor’s grief is lifted and how the romance develops.
Char’s children force her to initiate a law suit against her stepchildren for a fifth inheritance of the winery. This is what brought Sam to Rivers Edge to act as counsel for Sean and his brothers. That is how she meets Conor and his daughter Ali, there first meeting is a rainy one involving a flat tire.
Read on to find out how Conor’s grief is lifted and how the romance develops.
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