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Whitney Steel #1
Reflection
A page-turning debut in the tradition of Karin Slaughter, Lisa Gardner and Michael Connelly. Reflection is a romantic thriller fueled with heart-pounding suspense and high-octane action.
"A deeply emotional romantic suspense that starts bold and holds you captive to the very end." -- New York Times Bestseller, Dianna Love
Florida investigative reporter, Whitney Steel, has lived in the shadow of her legendary father long enough. To prove herself she needs to find the "Big" story.
She found it. Now it may kill her.
After receiving a lead pointing to the world's first cloned human, now a small child, Whitney vows to unravel the truth. However, sifting through the facts proves to have dangerous results, including death threats and murder.
When she's nearly killed, but is saved by undercover FBI Special Agent, Blake Neely, he refuses to let her get in the way of his own objective--at least not right away.
Caught in a lethal game between a billionaire obsessed with genetic perfection, his hit man's thirst for retribution, and a Colombian drug lord fresh out of prison determined to make Blake pay for his twin brother's death over a decade ago...
Can they save an innocent child before it's too late?
Faced with tough choices, with deadly consequences for many--Whitney soon realizes that sometimes a story becomes more than just a story.
"A deeply emotional romantic suspense that starts bold and holds you captive to the very end." -- New York Times Bestseller, Dianna Love
Florida investigative reporter, Whitney Steel, has lived in the shadow of her legendary father long enough. To prove herself she needs to find the "Big" story.
She found it. Now it may kill her.
After receiving a lead pointing to the world's first cloned human, now a small child, Whitney vows to unravel the truth. However, sifting through the facts proves to have dangerous results, including death threats and murder.
When she's nearly killed, but is saved by undercover FBI Special Agent, Blake Neely, he refuses to let her get in the way of his own objective--at least not right away.
Caught in a lethal game between a billionaire obsessed with genetic perfection, his hit man's thirst for retribution, and a Colombian drug lord fresh out of prison determined to make Blake pay for his twin brother's death over a decade ago...
Can they save an innocent child before it's too late?
Faced with tough choices, with deadly consequences for many--Whitney soon realizes that sometimes a story becomes more than just a story.
334 pages, ebook
First published January 23, 2013
About the author
Kim Cresswell
43 books355 followersKim Cresswell resides in Ontario, Canada, and is the award-winning author of the action-packed Whitney Steel romantic suspense series. As a multi-genre author, her books have been featured online at USA Today, NBC, FOX, Publishers Weekly, Booklife, and ScifiPulse.net. The Assassin Chronicles TV series was in development with Council Tree Productions. The TV series is based on Kim's paranormal suspense thriller, Deadly Shadow, and the highly anticipated sequel, Invisible Truth.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
September 7, 2013
Who doesn’t like a good thriller, a cat and mouse chase to the death, a great plot and strong, vital characters? Did I mention the sick and all powerful business mogul who is dabbling in illegal human cloning? Reflection by Kim Cresswell had me from the introduction of the gutsy investigative reporter, Whitney, beautiful, damaged and determined to make it HUGE in a predominantly male world. Lunch with the ex is not always a fun thing, but when bullets start flying around Whitney and her ex-husband, a prominent politician and she receives a cryptic message from him as he lay dying, her life a she knows it is about to do a complete one-eighty as she finds herself in the middle of a story that will rock the world, providing she lives long enough to get her byline.
An undercover FBI agent, Blake has been working for the eccentric mogul Nathan Shaw as head of security, together, while still keeping his identity secret, Blake and Whitney are determined to do two things, bring Shaw down and stay alive. But is Shaw the only one after Whitney, or is he like a puppetmaster pulling enough deadly strings to get make staying alive impossible for anyone close to Whitney? Has a human been cloned? Can Shaw be taken down? Will all of the threats be neutralized?
Kim Creswell kept the tension taut, the writing fast-paced and crisp and the characters completely believable and well-fleshed out! Blake and Whitney were a perfect dynamic duo, completely likable, magnetic and just bristly enough with each other that I just KNEW the heat factor would combust!
I cannot thank Kim Cresswell enough for my review copy!
Publication Date: January 23, 2013
Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing
Number of Pages: 335
Genre: Adult Romantic Suspense
Rating: 5 Stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
An undercover FBI agent, Blake has been working for the eccentric mogul Nathan Shaw as head of security, together, while still keeping his identity secret, Blake and Whitney are determined to do two things, bring Shaw down and stay alive. But is Shaw the only one after Whitney, or is he like a puppetmaster pulling enough deadly strings to get make staying alive impossible for anyone close to Whitney? Has a human been cloned? Can Shaw be taken down? Will all of the threats be neutralized?
Kim Creswell kept the tension taut, the writing fast-paced and crisp and the characters completely believable and well-fleshed out! Blake and Whitney were a perfect dynamic duo, completely likable, magnetic and just bristly enough with each other that I just KNEW the heat factor would combust!
I cannot thank Kim Cresswell enough for my review copy!
Publication Date: January 23, 2013
Publisher: MuseItUp Publishing
Number of Pages: 335
Genre: Adult Romantic Suspense
Rating: 5 Stars
Available at: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
August 5, 2013
Holy intrigue within intrigue! What a brilliantly thought out and well put together romantic suspense.
This was definitely an intriguingly phenomenal read. Cresswell is an amazingly captivating and suspenseful storyteller who is able to switch gears at the flip of the hat. It’s just like real life. One moment she has you on the edge of your seat with suspense, the next you’re giggling at the budding relationship, and then your heart is breaking because the unthinkable happened. It’s all the scarier because it’s becoming possible. The premise of this novel is a definite possibility in today’s world. All of this happens while she keeps you enthralled within the pages of this novel.
The entire cast of characters that Cresswell has developed for this novel is amazingly well developed. Even the characters who don’t make it out of this story alive are well developed individuals. That said, none of them overshadow the main characters. These two individuals become as well known to you as your next door neighbours. They are strong, loveable individuals that you want to see succeed. It’s easy to feel for them throughout their trials.
Overall, this was a brilliant, suspenseful, romantic novel that is complete in and of itself. It also leaves room for a sequel, where we get to see more from these individuals whom we’ve come to know and love. I cannot wait to read more from this awesome author.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was definitely an intriguingly phenomenal read. Cresswell is an amazingly captivating and suspenseful storyteller who is able to switch gears at the flip of the hat. It’s just like real life. One moment she has you on the edge of your seat with suspense, the next you’re giggling at the budding relationship, and then your heart is breaking because the unthinkable happened. It’s all the scarier because it’s becoming possible. The premise of this novel is a definite possibility in today’s world. All of this happens while she keeps you enthralled within the pages of this novel.
The entire cast of characters that Cresswell has developed for this novel is amazingly well developed. Even the characters who don’t make it out of this story alive are well developed individuals. That said, none of them overshadow the main characters. These two individuals become as well known to you as your next door neighbours. They are strong, loveable individuals that you want to see succeed. It’s easy to feel for them throughout their trials.
Overall, this was a brilliant, suspenseful, romantic novel that is complete in and of itself. It also leaves room for a sequel, where we get to see more from these individuals whom we’ve come to know and love. I cannot wait to read more from this awesome author.
Please note that I received this novel free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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May 21, 2014 CONGRATULATIONS to Kim Cresswell on her 2014 RONE finalist status for Reflection. I'm so excited for her!!
http://indtale.com/2014-rone-awards
Whitney is an investigative reporter, and she's good at her job. When her ex-husband brings a top secret human cloning project to her attention and is immediately killed, she knows he was on to something real....
Full review now posted in the June 2013 issue of InD'tale magazine
http://www.indtale.com/reviews/reflec...
http://indtale.com/2014-rone-awards
Whitney is an investigative reporter, and she's good at her job. When her ex-husband brings a top secret human cloning project to her attention and is immediately killed, she knows he was on to something real....
Full review now posted in the June 2013 issue of InD'tale magazine
http://www.indtale.com/reviews/reflec...
March 5, 2013
WOW! Fantastic Debut for author Kim Cresswell. Reflection is an intense, gripping, and chilling romantic suspense. You get drawn in on page one and can't put the book down. The book is very well written, good flow, intense action, charismatic charactors, steamy chemistry, sexy love scenes, and one of the most bad ass villians I have read. He gave me the heeby jeebies!
I highly recommend this book!
I look forward to reading more books by Kim Cresswell.
I highly recommend this book!
I look forward to reading more books by Kim Cresswell.
April 14, 2013
Kim Cresswell's Reflection grabbed me from the first paragraph. It is a fast-paced action thriller with strong believable characters and a very real plot. It left me thinking well after I finished the last page. Throught out the action I had to tell myself to breath. This is an excellent debut work. I look forward to reading more from this author.
September 20, 2013
Great book! Loved it. Adventure, suspense and a bit of romance. Fantastic villain. Loved to hate! I'll be watching for the sequel! Five star...all the way
January 25, 2018
I obtained this free e-book from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. Whitney is an investigative reporter following a lead on the first human clone and the crazy rich man behind it. This story is at great cost to her because everyone she cares about is turning up dead along with multiple attempts on her life. Blake is an FBI agent deep undercover working as the head of Nathan Shaw's security the man responsible for the clone resulting in a little girl. Blake has his own agenda too. He needs to gather evidence not only on the illegal clone activity but the murder of his sister he is sure is connected to Shaw.
April 12, 2013
Blake is an FBI agent undercover investigating the death of his sister. He gets a job as a security specialist at the lab run by Nathan Shaw where she worked.
Whitney is a reporter whose ex-husband is murdered while they are having lunch. He tells her that humans are being cloned at Nathan’s lab. Days later, she receives a package in the mail with a key and a video showing a young girl. Knowing this is the story that could finally give her the prestige she wants, she heads to the lab to investigate but using a fake story. But Nathan isn’t fooled.
Nathan, thinking that Blake is his top security specialist, asks Blake to do what he has to do to get the video back. There is an instant connection between Blake and Whitney, though, but each are hiding secrets. In addition, Nathan sends another person, who has a grudge against Whitney, to get the video and eliminate Whitney.
As people start getting killed and houses and cars are blown up, Whitney and Blake have to work together despite not trusting each other.
This is the first book by this author that I’ve read (it’s actually the first novel the author has written) and I liked it. I liked the writing style and it kept me wanting to read more. It was fast-paced and interesting. There were times when I had to leave my sense of belief at the door and go with it.
I liked Blake and Whitney as characters. Blake wants to avenge the death of his sister and is eventually filled with guilt because he is keeping things from Whitney. He knows that once she finds out that he has lied to her, he might lose her. Whitney knows that Blake isn’t being totally honest with her plus works for the man she is trying to bring down but can’t fight the attraction. Nathan is well-portrayed as the villain.
As a head’s up, the language and activity is at times mature.
I received a copy of this ebook from the author at no charge in return for my honest review.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2013/04...
Whitney is a reporter whose ex-husband is murdered while they are having lunch. He tells her that humans are being cloned at Nathan’s lab. Days later, she receives a package in the mail with a key and a video showing a young girl. Knowing this is the story that could finally give her the prestige she wants, she heads to the lab to investigate but using a fake story. But Nathan isn’t fooled.
Nathan, thinking that Blake is his top security specialist, asks Blake to do what he has to do to get the video back. There is an instant connection between Blake and Whitney, though, but each are hiding secrets. In addition, Nathan sends another person, who has a grudge against Whitney, to get the video and eliminate Whitney.
As people start getting killed and houses and cars are blown up, Whitney and Blake have to work together despite not trusting each other.
This is the first book by this author that I’ve read (it’s actually the first novel the author has written) and I liked it. I liked the writing style and it kept me wanting to read more. It was fast-paced and interesting. There were times when I had to leave my sense of belief at the door and go with it.
I liked Blake and Whitney as characters. Blake wants to avenge the death of his sister and is eventually filled with guilt because he is keeping things from Whitney. He knows that once she finds out that he has lied to her, he might lose her. Whitney knows that Blake isn’t being totally honest with her plus works for the man she is trying to bring down but can’t fight the attraction. Nathan is well-portrayed as the villain.
As a head’s up, the language and activity is at times mature.
I received a copy of this ebook from the author at no charge in return for my honest review.
Blog review post: http://www.teenaintoronto.com/2013/04...
April 25, 2013
The idea is compelling. Reflection has elements of a good mystery/suspense novel, with peril, bad guys, details and reasons explained along the way. However, most of the story felt like I was watching the two characters ogle each other with a few explosions thrown in for good measure rather than focusing on a plan to infiltrate and the clone.
Whitney's and Blake's relationship felt forced and too soon. When they meet, they have "insta-lust." A week later, they say they've fallen in love. In my opinion, the sex scenes could have been left out entirely.
There were inconsistencies Everything seems to happen a bit suddenly - all the events happening basically within a week or so. Some things were a little too convenient or quite unrealistic. These were just a few issues I had with the book.
Underneath it all, there's a good idea. With some cleaning up and tightening up the plot, this could be a real thriller. Sadly, it just wasn't the book for me. 2.5 stars.
Note: I received a free copy from the author for a fair and honest review.
Whitney's and Blake's relationship felt forced and too soon. When they meet, they have "insta-lust." A week later, they say they've fallen in love. In my opinion, the sex scenes could have been left out entirely.
There were inconsistencies Everything seems to happen a bit suddenly - all the events happening basically within a week or so. Some things were a little too convenient or quite unrealistic. These were just a few issues I had with the book.
Underneath it all, there's a good idea. With some cleaning up and tightening up the plot, this could be a real thriller. Sadly, it just wasn't the book for me. 2.5 stars.
Note: I received a free copy from the author for a fair and honest review.
August 16, 2013
Whitney Steel is an investigative reporter and when her ex-husband, Senator Mason Bailey, brings her information which could put her on the map, she’s ready to sniff out the truth. Her ex-husband is killed in front of her, but it doesn’t deter her in the least. All roads are leading to ShawBioGen and she heads out to Las Vegas to confront Nathan Shaw about the allegations of illegal human cloning. She meets a member of Shaw’s security, Blake Neely, who happens to be an undercover FBI agent. As Whitney digs deeper, there are attempts on her life and the bodies are piling up around her, but she’s also fighting feelings for Blake. Advanced science, murder, intrigue, romance, and revenge make up the heart of ‘Reflection’.
I think ‘Reflection’ is set on a solid premise, with plenty of action and mystery. The mystery and investigation is laid out well, with the pieces explained as they fall into place. The romance between Whitney and Blake is a little less believable because it happened so quickly and there was a bit more sex than I thought was necessary to keep the story rolling. It was a pretty quick read because I was easily engaged in the story. I think ‘Reflections’ is a good mystery with strong characters, suspense and action.
I think ‘Reflection’ is set on a solid premise, with plenty of action and mystery. The mystery and investigation is laid out well, with the pieces explained as they fall into place. The romance between Whitney and Blake is a little less believable because it happened so quickly and there was a bit more sex than I thought was necessary to keep the story rolling. It was a pretty quick read because I was easily engaged in the story. I think ‘Reflections’ is a good mystery with strong characters, suspense and action.
August 17, 2016
***AUDIBLE VERSION***
*I received this as a free audio book in exchange for an honest review*
This was really interesting! I loved the premise and the characters, they felt quite well thought out. At first I thought that maybe they reacted a bit oddly compared to what I would have, but then realized that, with their professions, it WOULD be different, and seemed true to their character! Very fast paced, very intense. Very good!
The narrator was okay. Occasionally the stress put on words and pauses seemed off sometimes, but I realize that could easily be a personal preference. Her voice just wasn't for me. I can't say why, exactly, and I mean no disrespect to her at all, I'm not saying she has a terrible voice, or anything like that! It just didn't hear my ears right, I suppose. But, she had great pace and seemed to know the story well, which is always a good thing.
Overall, Bob says: 4 Platypires!
*I received this as a free audio book in exchange for an honest review*
This was really interesting! I loved the premise and the characters, they felt quite well thought out. At first I thought that maybe they reacted a bit oddly compared to what I would have, but then realized that, with their professions, it WOULD be different, and seemed true to their character! Very fast paced, very intense. Very good!
The narrator was okay. Occasionally the stress put on words and pauses seemed off sometimes, but I realize that could easily be a personal preference. Her voice just wasn't for me. I can't say why, exactly, and I mean no disrespect to her at all, I'm not saying she has a terrible voice, or anything like that! It just didn't hear my ears right, I suppose. But, she had great pace and seemed to know the story well, which is always a good thing.
Overall, Bob says: 4 Platypires!
May 26, 2013
An amazing book ~~it had a bit of everything I needed suspense, lust, thrill, chase of a wild case.Whitney was an outstanding women tuff skin I really liked her character.She showed a lot of will even know there were times she was breaking :( I felt so sorry for all the losses throughout the book.Blake was the perfect person for her to have found alone her investigation.He may have held some secrets but I would have for gave him too :) he was her rock through the book and her love she found.I thought she was gonna loose him n I cried.I'm glad he gets to have a piece of his sister in his life and the woman he fell for while putting away a basted of a man!!!! It's a MUST READ!! Glad to see there might be a part 2 there needs to b more of their future :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2013
Glad to know there is a sequel coming as I really liked this one. The plot had a lot of typical Rom Sus elements, but somehow the whole was very fresh to me. The greatest element of the story for me was that the heroine, Whitney Steel(great name!) was believable mixture of being strong,and capable but vulnerable and sometimes misguided. The story was exciting and definitely left me wanting more
August 19, 2014
This debut novel was action packed from page one, literally filled with page turning suspense and edge of your seat moments.
Read full review in the 2013 June issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2013 June issue of InD’tale Magazine.
May 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this book...it was fast paced, non-stop action and kept you guessing 'what next?'. Whitney Steel, investigative reporter and daughter of an award winning reporter, is like a magnet for bad stuff! Whitney is having lunch w her ex husband, a senator, when he is gunned down just as he is about to give her something big! A few days following his funeral, she receives a package from her ex's attorney...it was big alright! A scientist has successfully cloned a human! Meanwhile, undercover FBI agent, Blake, is working as head of security for the scientist, Nathan Shaw. Blake believes that Shaw is responsible for the death of his sister, a scientist who worked for Shaw, and he intends to do whatever is necessary to take him down. The pair are on a collision course, when Whitney shows up to interview Shaw. Once Whitney has been dismissed from the interview, Shaw instructs Blake to get Whitney's information (a tape of the clone child) and dispose of her. Meanwhile, someone has made a few attempts on Whitney's life. As I've said, this book is chocked full of non-stop drama! Guns, bad guys, dead bodies, bombing...we get it all. We get an HEA...somewhat...because there are a few unanswered questions so we know that there is more in the next book! Now, on to the next book...Retribution!
May 17, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I thought the premise for this romantic suspense novel was very promising. A reporter (Whitney Steel) discovers information which leads her to believe that human cloning has been successfully performed in a high security compound in the Nevada desert. In her efforts to get the story, she teams up with Blake who (unbeknownst to her) is an FBI agent and has infiltrated the compound as its head of security.
The novel is filled with action, including the murders of several secondary characters and of course romance. I wanted to love this story, and it started out on a promising note. The author has a very clean style which I really appreciated. The opening scene was full of drama...but then as it went on I started to lose interest. I've tried to analyze why this happened,and found it difficult to pinpoint. I think perhaps one thing that was missing was the conflict element of the romance - it seemed to me that Whitney trusted Blake far too easily. As far as she knew, he was Nathan's head of security - why would she trust him? Why would she let him in her home and then stay in a hotel with him so easily? It just didn't ring true for me somehow, and didn't create the tension that, as a romance reader, I need in order to keep reading(if the characters are already together, why do I need to continue?). I also thought that the suspense lacked...well, lacked suspense. For example, we were provided with the identity of the various villains as we went, instead of being given background and being allowed to guess. I think this is just personal preference...I like not knowing what's coming and I didn't find that happened too often in this book. I thought this could be classified more as "action" than "suspense", and just not really what I was expecting.
I thought the sex scenes were very well done and were well placed in the story - there was a nice balance of plot and sex. Unfortunately the plot itself had some pain points for me, and some things that just didn't make sense. For example, why was the tape so incriminating? From the description, it seemed to contain only footage of Angel - was there something else there that made it so important? Why would an FBI agent allow an untrained reporter to come with him on a dangerous mission? How did a Colombian druglord come to be in the same cell as a billionaire businessman?
All in all, this was an OK read for me. As I said, I really like the author's style and would certainly check out other books by her. I think this book could be a great read for me with some refinements made to the plot, but as is I would say it wasn't really to my taste.
I thought the premise for this romantic suspense novel was very promising. A reporter (Whitney Steel) discovers information which leads her to believe that human cloning has been successfully performed in a high security compound in the Nevada desert. In her efforts to get the story, she teams up with Blake who (unbeknownst to her) is an FBI agent and has infiltrated the compound as its head of security.
The novel is filled with action, including the murders of several secondary characters and of course romance. I wanted to love this story, and it started out on a promising note. The author has a very clean style which I really appreciated. The opening scene was full of drama...but then as it went on I started to lose interest. I've tried to analyze why this happened,and found it difficult to pinpoint. I think perhaps one thing that was missing was the conflict element of the romance - it seemed to me that Whitney trusted Blake far too easily. As far as she knew, he was Nathan's head of security - why would she trust him? Why would she let him in her home and then stay in a hotel with him so easily? It just didn't ring true for me somehow, and didn't create the tension that, as a romance reader, I need in order to keep reading(if the characters are already together, why do I need to continue?). I also thought that the suspense lacked...well, lacked suspense. For example, we were provided with the identity of the various villains as we went, instead of being given background and being allowed to guess. I think this is just personal preference...I like not knowing what's coming and I didn't find that happened too often in this book. I thought this could be classified more as "action" than "suspense", and just not really what I was expecting.
I thought the sex scenes were very well done and were well placed in the story - there was a nice balance of plot and sex. Unfortunately the plot itself had some pain points for me, and some things that just didn't make sense. For example, why was the tape so incriminating? From the description, it seemed to contain only footage of Angel - was there something else there that made it so important? Why would an FBI agent allow an untrained reporter to come with him on a dangerous mission? How did a Colombian druglord come to be in the same cell as a billionaire businessman?
All in all, this was an OK read for me. As I said, I really like the author's style and would certainly check out other books by her. I think this book could be a great read for me with some refinements made to the plot, but as is I would say it wasn't really to my taste.
April 22, 2014
Reviewed by Kota for Kota's Book Kollection
Whitney Steel, if you aren’t having one of the worst weeks ever – wow!
Whitney is an investigative reporter who is thrown in to the story of her life. While she works to uncover the truth she is forced to rely on others – but can she trust them?
Blake Neely works with the crazy, mega wealthy Nathan Shaw – but he has his own agenda and needs to make sure his cover is never blown. When Whitney enters the picture his life becomes so much more complicated.
This story is one of suspense, drama and a little bit of romance all mixed together with some sci-fi themes. It shows us how dispensable human life is if greed and a ginormous ego and bank balance feature strongly in your lifestyle. Throw in some extraordinary intelligence and BioShawGen is a scary as shit place.
Ms Cresswell writes a gripping novel, with action a plenty. This story breaks your heart and makes you feel for Whitney and those around her. Money can buy anything for the right price even the safety of a child.
I read this story after a number of true romance books – and it was truly a pleasant surprise. I was on edge waiting to see what would happen next. Would Blake and Whitney be discovered, would they achieve their goal without death and destruction? Where do all the connections lie and is Nathan Shaw truly the one pulling all of the strings?
Ms Cresswell’s style is enjoyable – there are ebbs and flows in the story, but little downtime. This story moves at a rapid pace yet all of the pieces fit well enough. There are elements of the story that were left unfinished for me – they may not have been integral to the outcome, but they left questions with which I would have like the answers. I found the end/epilogue to have been rushed – I think the elements of these could have been expanded further to give full closure – unless of course it has been left open for a second story to come in the future?
The romance between Whitney and Blake was interesting, it was based on instalust and a lack of trust.. an interesting mix given their circumstances. Sex does not dominate this storyline but elements are there – this part of the storyline is more about developing an emotional connection that allows trust to develop – enough to trust someone with your life.
This was a really engaging, enjoyable and action packed story that kept me guessing. It wasn’t perfect for me, but was a bloody good read nonetheless. I am rating reflection 4 hearts.
http://kotasbookkollection.blogspot.c...
Whitney Steel, if you aren’t having one of the worst weeks ever – wow!
Whitney is an investigative reporter who is thrown in to the story of her life. While she works to uncover the truth she is forced to rely on others – but can she trust them?
Blake Neely works with the crazy, mega wealthy Nathan Shaw – but he has his own agenda and needs to make sure his cover is never blown. When Whitney enters the picture his life becomes so much more complicated.
This story is one of suspense, drama and a little bit of romance all mixed together with some sci-fi themes. It shows us how dispensable human life is if greed and a ginormous ego and bank balance feature strongly in your lifestyle. Throw in some extraordinary intelligence and BioShawGen is a scary as shit place.
Ms Cresswell writes a gripping novel, with action a plenty. This story breaks your heart and makes you feel for Whitney and those around her. Money can buy anything for the right price even the safety of a child.
I read this story after a number of true romance books – and it was truly a pleasant surprise. I was on edge waiting to see what would happen next. Would Blake and Whitney be discovered, would they achieve their goal without death and destruction? Where do all the connections lie and is Nathan Shaw truly the one pulling all of the strings?
Ms Cresswell’s style is enjoyable – there are ebbs and flows in the story, but little downtime. This story moves at a rapid pace yet all of the pieces fit well enough. There are elements of the story that were left unfinished for me – they may not have been integral to the outcome, but they left questions with which I would have like the answers. I found the end/epilogue to have been rushed – I think the elements of these could have been expanded further to give full closure – unless of course it has been left open for a second story to come in the future?
The romance between Whitney and Blake was interesting, it was based on instalust and a lack of trust.. an interesting mix given their circumstances. Sex does not dominate this storyline but elements are there – this part of the storyline is more about developing an emotional connection that allows trust to develop – enough to trust someone with your life.
This was a really engaging, enjoyable and action packed story that kept me guessing. It wasn’t perfect for me, but was a bloody good read nonetheless. I am rating reflection 4 hearts.
http://kotasbookkollection.blogspot.c...
May 27, 2013
“Reflection” is an engaging and suspenseful mystery with action and romance. While the story and characters are well-developed, I didn’t find the two protagonists, Blake or Whitney, that amazing. Likeable yes but nothing that made them stand out. We’re supposed to believe they’re smart, intelligent, and full of inner-strength; yet Whitney constantly puts her life and others at risk by taking ridiculous risks, not thinking thru her plans, or what impact her actions would have on her or Blake’s undercover assignment; and of course Blake always has to leave what he’s doing and come to her rescue. Then we have Blake who would leave Whitney alone in motel rooms while he goes off and does God knows what when there are killers after them.
With respect to the romance between Blake and Whitney, I didn’t think they made that great a couple as there didn’t seem to be any passion or chemistry between the two. It doesn’t even make any sense when Whitney falls in love with Blake when she doesn’t even trust him. It’s only when Blake is being wheeled into surgery that she yells out “I love you.” Too bad he can’t hear you (cue eye-roll).
With respect to the story itself, there were some things that just didn’t come across as believable to me. We’re to believe that Nathan Shaw would end up sharing a cell with Sanchez, a Colombian drug lord? That Nathan was the agent in charge of both cases?? And who would release a drug lord on bail, especially someone who’s from South America, and expect him to check in with his parole officer? Give me a break – it’s laughable. Then they’re surprised when Sanchez doesn’t check in, that’s he’s on the loose. Gee, what a surprise. Even when they go after him, Sanchez still escapes their clutches – but I think the author did this as to continue the story in the next book because it definitely reads that way. Speaking of endings, though abrupt, I thought the side-story of Sanchez was exciting (except for the believability of it). I just wish there was more written about it, but again, I think we have to wait until the next book (I think). I also think a little more information about the little cloned girl, Angel, would have been appreciated.
All-in-all an engaging story that should appeal to many readers.
With respect to the romance between Blake and Whitney, I didn’t think they made that great a couple as there didn’t seem to be any passion or chemistry between the two. It doesn’t even make any sense when Whitney falls in love with Blake when she doesn’t even trust him. It’s only when Blake is being wheeled into surgery that she yells out “I love you.” Too bad he can’t hear you (cue eye-roll).
With respect to the story itself, there were some things that just didn’t come across as believable to me. We’re to believe that Nathan Shaw would end up sharing a cell with Sanchez, a Colombian drug lord? That Nathan was the agent in charge of both cases?? And who would release a drug lord on bail, especially someone who’s from South America, and expect him to check in with his parole officer? Give me a break – it’s laughable. Then they’re surprised when Sanchez doesn’t check in, that’s he’s on the loose. Gee, what a surprise. Even when they go after him, Sanchez still escapes their clutches – but I think the author did this as to continue the story in the next book because it definitely reads that way. Speaking of endings, though abrupt, I thought the side-story of Sanchez was exciting (except for the believability of it). I just wish there was more written about it, but again, I think we have to wait until the next book (I think). I also think a little more information about the little cloned girl, Angel, would have been appreciated.
All-in-all an engaging story that should appeal to many readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2016
Reflection was an excellent novel. Put everything aside, use the crockpot for dinner and set the timer to make sure you don’t forget to pick the kids up from school. Seriously. I read the entire novel in one day.
Highly imaginative, but very believable, Reflection follows reporter Whitney Steel as she follows a clue given to her by her ex-husband Senator Mason Bailey just as he is gunned down in front of her.
I really liked Whitney’s character and thought that it was prudent of her father to ensure that she was well able to defend herself since she chose to follow him in a sometimes-dangerous career of investigative reporter. However, I did think her outlook on life was a little sad that she thought she could never have a stable relationship, although perhaps after her broken marriage that was preferable to allowing herself to being vulnerable again.
I also liked Blake. He seemed like a very honorable kind of person; very trustworthy, but not a guy you’d want to have as your opponent.
There was a lot of fast-paced action in Reflection. You will never be bored. And when you think the story is just going to wind up and finish…. There’s still more to come because there’s another twist to the plot.
One thing that I could have done without were the graphic sex scenes. It was more than ugh that that we were told how aroused the characters were at various times. Truthfully, I skipped over the parts that described what they did in bed. TMI.
I think that Whitney and Blake’s relationship wasn’t anything like love at first. I think it was totally lust to begin with. After all, she didn’t even trust him. Perhaps after they rescued the child and had gone through all those experiences together it may have started to turn into love, but it wasn’t love to start with.
Reflection was a most engaging novel, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys the suspense genre. I gave this book 5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the publisher MuseItUp Publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
Highly imaginative, but very believable, Reflection follows reporter Whitney Steel as she follows a clue given to her by her ex-husband Senator Mason Bailey just as he is gunned down in front of her.
I really liked Whitney’s character and thought that it was prudent of her father to ensure that she was well able to defend herself since she chose to follow him in a sometimes-dangerous career of investigative reporter. However, I did think her outlook on life was a little sad that she thought she could never have a stable relationship, although perhaps after her broken marriage that was preferable to allowing herself to being vulnerable again.
I also liked Blake. He seemed like a very honorable kind of person; very trustworthy, but not a guy you’d want to have as your opponent.
There was a lot of fast-paced action in Reflection. You will never be bored. And when you think the story is just going to wind up and finish…. There’s still more to come because there’s another twist to the plot.
One thing that I could have done without were the graphic sex scenes. It was more than ugh that that we were told how aroused the characters were at various times. Truthfully, I skipped over the parts that described what they did in bed. TMI.
I think that Whitney and Blake’s relationship wasn’t anything like love at first. I think it was totally lust to begin with. After all, she didn’t even trust him. Perhaps after they rescued the child and had gone through all those experiences together it may have started to turn into love, but it wasn’t love to start with.
Reflection was a most engaging novel, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys the suspense genre. I gave this book 5 stars out of 5.
Thank you to the publisher MuseItUp Publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.
March 18, 2013
A truly edge-of-your-seat, never-a-dull-moment read, Reflection has a dramatic start and just never slows down. When her ex-husband is killed while trying to tell her something important, investigative reporter, Whitney Steel, realizes that she may be on to the story of a lifetime. Too bad then that Nathan Shaw, Blake Neely and an enemy from her past want to prevent her obtaining the information for her story; and at the heart of all this, an innocent child.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as it moves forward all the time with no lengthy descriptions or angsty inner dialogue. The romance in the story is tastefully written and skillfully distributed throughout the book so as to enhance rather than interfere with the main storyline.
The characters are fleshed out and vividly described thus giving the reader captivating mental images that truly makes the story come alive. I love a strong female protagonist who can hold her own, kick butt and doesn't indulge in self pity. Whitney Steel is exactly that. Blake Neely, the male protagonist, is extremely realistic with his inner battles about keeping Whitney safe, the death of his sister and, ultimately, his own mission. Let's not forget the bad guys in this story. Ruthless, mean and self-serving are just some of the adjectives that come to mind. Add to that vengeful and the author has some truly nasty but highly realistic antagonists to give our heroes a run for their money.
I highly recommend this five-star page-turner to those who love a suspense laden novel with constant action and well balanced romance. The extra complication at the end gives this book a unique quality, and, oops, let me stop before I give too much away! As the book has a slightly open end, let's hope that we'll soon see another book by the highly gifted Kim Cresswell. (Ellen Fritz)
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as it moves forward all the time with no lengthy descriptions or angsty inner dialogue. The romance in the story is tastefully written and skillfully distributed throughout the book so as to enhance rather than interfere with the main storyline.
The characters are fleshed out and vividly described thus giving the reader captivating mental images that truly makes the story come alive. I love a strong female protagonist who can hold her own, kick butt and doesn't indulge in self pity. Whitney Steel is exactly that. Blake Neely, the male protagonist, is extremely realistic with his inner battles about keeping Whitney safe, the death of his sister and, ultimately, his own mission. Let's not forget the bad guys in this story. Ruthless, mean and self-serving are just some of the adjectives that come to mind. Add to that vengeful and the author has some truly nasty but highly realistic antagonists to give our heroes a run for their money.
I highly recommend this five-star page-turner to those who love a suspense laden novel with constant action and well balanced romance. The extra complication at the end gives this book a unique quality, and, oops, let me stop before I give too much away! As the book has a slightly open end, let's hope that we'll soon see another book by the highly gifted Kim Cresswell. (Ellen Fritz)
August 29, 2016
4 stars for the story
2 stars for the narration
Audible needs to change the category they have the book listed in to include the fact that there are sex scenes. While I don't have a problem with them at all there are many listeners who don't like sex in their books.
Creative, engaging, interesting and entertaining story. Although the narration is lacking.
Mystery, action, deceit, humor, suspense and a steamy romance woven into a really good story.
After receiving a tip Whitney Steel is after a story. A big one involving illegal human cloning. She crosses paths with FBI agent Blake Neely who has been working undercover to expose the same corrupt man. As Whitney continues digging for the truth, Blake is trying to finish his investigation as well as keep Whitney alive after being ordered to kill her all while falling for her.
I would definitely listen to more books by Kim Cresswell but it would need to have a different narrator.
Narration good and bad….
I stuck with the book because of the story. The narration detracted from the overall enjoyment of the book. The narration was flat/dry most of the time. I found it very hard to listen to especially in the beginning. I did get used to it. All the character voices were good. Since her character voices were good I don't get why the non dialogue parts were so flat. There was humor sprinkled throughout the story but it just didn't translate well with this narrator. You can tell she has the talent, it comes through at times she just may have not been the right narrator for this story.
This audiobook was provided by author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for the unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
2 stars for the narration
Audible needs to change the category they have the book listed in to include the fact that there are sex scenes. While I don't have a problem with them at all there are many listeners who don't like sex in their books.
Creative, engaging, interesting and entertaining story. Although the narration is lacking.
Mystery, action, deceit, humor, suspense and a steamy romance woven into a really good story.
After receiving a tip Whitney Steel is after a story. A big one involving illegal human cloning. She crosses paths with FBI agent Blake Neely who has been working undercover to expose the same corrupt man. As Whitney continues digging for the truth, Blake is trying to finish his investigation as well as keep Whitney alive after being ordered to kill her all while falling for her.
I would definitely listen to more books by Kim Cresswell but it would need to have a different narrator.
Narration good and bad….
I stuck with the book because of the story. The narration detracted from the overall enjoyment of the book. The narration was flat/dry most of the time. I found it very hard to listen to especially in the beginning. I did get used to it. All the character voices were good. Since her character voices were good I don't get why the non dialogue parts were so flat. There was humor sprinkled throughout the story but it just didn't translate well with this narrator. You can tell she has the talent, it comes through at times she just may have not been the right narrator for this story.
This audiobook was provided by author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for the unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
November 4, 2013
I really liked this story. Whitney the journalist just can't take herself away from a story especially when people she love get involved and hurt. Whitney gets the story from her ex-husband and Senator that a man named Nathan Shaw has cloned a human and that is not only morally wrong but against the law. Now it is up to Whitney to find out the truth and put Nathan Shaw in jail. Whitney also wants to save the little girl that has been cloned and make sure that she is safe.
While checking into the story about Shaw, Whitney meets an FBI agent (not that she knows he is FBI at first) and instantly can feel some chemistry except Whitney doesn't want to believe that there is any. She can't bring herself to get into any relationship where she is in danger and she can't trust the man that she is with. She knows that Blake is lying about something, she just can't figure out what. Plus it doesn't help that Blake is currently Shaw's security manager and is sent to keep Whitney away from the labs. IN the meantime Shaw has decided that anyone snooping too close into his experiments have to be taken out and not just send home but dead. He has sent someone after Whitney and if Blake gets into the way he has no problem taking him out at the same time. Shaw is a ruthless man and just the right type of villain.
This story has a lot of twists and turns that keep you hanging through the entire story. Just when you thought the story would end Kim throws another one in there just to keep you on your toes. A great read!
~Teresa
www.sinfulreview.wordpress.com
While checking into the story about Shaw, Whitney meets an FBI agent (not that she knows he is FBI at first) and instantly can feel some chemistry except Whitney doesn't want to believe that there is any. She can't bring herself to get into any relationship where she is in danger and she can't trust the man that she is with. She knows that Blake is lying about something, she just can't figure out what. Plus it doesn't help that Blake is currently Shaw's security manager and is sent to keep Whitney away from the labs. IN the meantime Shaw has decided that anyone snooping too close into his experiments have to be taken out and not just send home but dead. He has sent someone after Whitney and if Blake gets into the way he has no problem taking him out at the same time. Shaw is a ruthless man and just the right type of villain.
This story has a lot of twists and turns that keep you hanging through the entire story. Just when you thought the story would end Kim throws another one in there just to keep you on your toes. A great read!
~Teresa
www.sinfulreview.wordpress.com
July 13, 2013
Whitney, a very stubborn and extremely talented journalist goes on the hunt for an illegal cloning operation after witnessing the assassination of her ex-husband. This hunt not only puts her life, and the lives of her closest friends in danger, but also brings her across the path of Blake Neely. Blake, a highly trained undercover agent
for the FBI is working as the head of security for Nathan, the man in charge of the illegal cloning operation. Whitney finds herself at odds with her feelings for Blake.
Surely she shouldn’t be attracted to the bad guy?
This was a brilliantly written story with fascinating plot twists that keeps the reader guessing right through to the end. It is a very tough book to put down. Especially once you start getting into it. Blake is an easy man to fall in love with. A well written character, who by no stretch of the imagination is perfect. This only makes him more lovable.
I did however find myself wishing I could throttle Whitney more then a few times. She is a very talented and independent woman. At times way too independent. She refused to rely on Blake or even trust him, especially at times most needed. Her distrust in Blake got her into hot water quite a few times. However, my dislike for Whitney pushed aside, her penchant for trouble did make for a very interesting read.
This was a brilliant mixture of action, romance and mystery. Well worth a read.
for the FBI is working as the head of security for Nathan, the man in charge of the illegal cloning operation. Whitney finds herself at odds with her feelings for Blake.
Surely she shouldn’t be attracted to the bad guy?
This was a brilliantly written story with fascinating plot twists that keeps the reader guessing right through to the end. It is a very tough book to put down. Especially once you start getting into it. Blake is an easy man to fall in love with. A well written character, who by no stretch of the imagination is perfect. This only makes him more lovable.
I did however find myself wishing I could throttle Whitney more then a few times. She is a very talented and independent woman. At times way too independent. She refused to rely on Blake or even trust him, especially at times most needed. Her distrust in Blake got her into hot water quite a few times. However, my dislike for Whitney pushed aside, her penchant for trouble did make for a very interesting read.
This was a brilliant mixture of action, romance and mystery. Well worth a read.
April 9, 2013
Sharon's Book Nook Review - http://sharonsbooknook.com/2013/04/09...
This is one action packed ride from the get go and does not slow down until the very end.
A well written story with likeable characters in Whitney Steel and Blake Neely, and one nasty villain in Nathan Shaw. Whitney and Blake are both very strong, independent and determined people. Together they make a great team in their attempt to find that "big story" and seek justice. Nathan on the other hand, certainly knows how to cover his tracks and keeps everyone guessing what his next move will be.
The romance is weaved into this action packed story nicely especially when things become intense. My only criticism of it would be their attraction to each other seemed a little sudden considering the circumstances of their first meeting. However, this doesn't take anything away from the relationship that progresses.
Terrific read, give it a try!
This is one action packed ride from the get go and does not slow down until the very end.
A well written story with likeable characters in Whitney Steel and Blake Neely, and one nasty villain in Nathan Shaw. Whitney and Blake are both very strong, independent and determined people. Together they make a great team in their attempt to find that "big story" and seek justice. Nathan on the other hand, certainly knows how to cover his tracks and keeps everyone guessing what his next move will be.
The romance is weaved into this action packed story nicely especially when things become intense. My only criticism of it would be their attraction to each other seemed a little sudden considering the circumstances of their first meeting. However, this doesn't take anything away from the relationship that progresses.
Terrific read, give it a try!
March 13, 2013
Reflection is an action packed romantic read. Whitney is investigating the next big story, cloning. Investigating Nathan Shaw proves to be difficult and deadly. He has everything at his disposal money and a hit man. Whitney Steel is a strong and does not back away easily. She is determine to set the record and put Shaw behind bars for killing her ex-husband. After her ex husband death she receives evidence proving there is a child that has been cloned. Blake Nealy an under cover FBI agent looking for answers. He works for Shaw but even he has not proof of any cloned child. The chemistry between Whitney and Blake is undeniable, hot and very well paced.
Cresswell created a believable situation and likable characters. You will be on the edge of your seats with all the action. Blake and Whitney will leave you wanting more of their romance.
Cresswell created a believable situation and likable characters. You will be on the edge of your seats with all the action. Blake and Whitney will leave you wanting more of their romance.
November 6, 2013
Our 5 Star Review
Whitney has just found out about the story of a lifetime, but it's already cost her the life of her ex husband. Faced between giving up the story or finding out what's going on she chooses to let it go. Problem is the story isn't ready to let go of her. Blake has been undercover for nearly a year, now that the cast is about to wrap a nosy reporter is getting in the way.. He can't be distracted from the mission problem is Whitney is damn distracting and too stubborn for her own good. Can they work together to save a little girl and out away the bad guy? And in the end how much will it cost them?
This was a great read!!! The story was well thought out and the characters were very well developed. I enjoyed the mystery, romance, and suspense all mixed into this novel.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED READ!!!
Whitney has just found out about the story of a lifetime, but it's already cost her the life of her ex husband. Faced between giving up the story or finding out what's going on she chooses to let it go. Problem is the story isn't ready to let go of her. Blake has been undercover for nearly a year, now that the cast is about to wrap a nosy reporter is getting in the way.. He can't be distracted from the mission problem is Whitney is damn distracting and too stubborn for her own good. Can they work together to save a little girl and out away the bad guy? And in the end how much will it cost them?
This was a great read!!! The story was well thought out and the characters were very well developed. I enjoyed the mystery, romance, and suspense all mixed into this novel.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED READ!!!
July 16, 2014
A friend recommended this read and I am glad. Just the perfect mix of suspense and action adventure mixed with a mystery/romance. Excellent characters, setting, and complete plot. Once you start reading, you will not want to stop until that last page is read.
This exciting tale follows a strong investigative reporter, Whitney Steel, on the story of a lifetime. Gripping and emotionally moving with surprise twists and turns in the fast paced events. Death and danger surrounds her every move. An emotional and exciting read for this old lady.
The only drawback is some early formatting errors and a spattering of typos. I am anxiously awaiting the release of Retribution, the sequel.
I highly recommend reading this novel and have added Kim Cresswell to my growing list of favorite authors.
This exciting tale follows a strong investigative reporter, Whitney Steel, on the story of a lifetime. Gripping and emotionally moving with surprise twists and turns in the fast paced events. Death and danger surrounds her every move. An emotional and exciting read for this old lady.
The only drawback is some early formatting errors and a spattering of typos. I am anxiously awaiting the release of Retribution, the sequel.
I highly recommend reading this novel and have added Kim Cresswell to my growing list of favorite authors.
June 6, 2014
3.75 stars cloned up to 4. Congrats to Kim Cresswell on a wonderful debut novel. The story grabs you on the first page and holds you until the very last. It doesn't even release you then, I am looking forward to the sequel to see where Blake and Whitney go from here. The character are strong and believable, the supporting characters are the same, and the action is fast and furious. The villain is one of the vilest I've seen with no regard for anyone or anything but his own wishes.
The main complaint I had was mediocre editing, at best. There were many dropped words, mainly two and three letter ones that at first I could overlook, but when it continued it bothered me. There were also misspellings, or just wrong words used (ex: "where" for "were"). The errors weren't enough that the reader didn't know what was meant, they were just annoying.
The main complaint I had was mediocre editing, at best. There were many dropped words, mainly two and three letter ones that at first I could overlook, but when it continued it bothered me. There were also misspellings, or just wrong words used (ex: "where" for "were"). The errors weren't enough that the reader didn't know what was meant, they were just annoying.
August 18, 2016
This review is for the audio version of this book.
Having read the blurb I wasn't expecting the romance to feature so much. I now see that the Amazon genre is romantic suspense and I can't argue with that. Initially I found it quite difficult to listen to the narrator and even when I had settled into listening to her accent I still found that I didn't like the voices used when the various characters spoke. I am new to audio books and the learning point for me here was that I am more comfortable reading about intimacy than I am hearing it described. I'm sure folk who are looking for a romantic suspense novel will enjoy more than I did being more of a crime reader.
I received a free copy of Reflection in return for an honest review and my thanks to Crime Book Junkie and Kim Cresswell for that.
Having read the blurb I wasn't expecting the romance to feature so much. I now see that the Amazon genre is romantic suspense and I can't argue with that. Initially I found it quite difficult to listen to the narrator and even when I had settled into listening to her accent I still found that I didn't like the voices used when the various characters spoke. I am new to audio books and the learning point for me here was that I am more comfortable reading about intimacy than I am hearing it described. I'm sure folk who are looking for a romantic suspense novel will enjoy more than I did being more of a crime reader.
I received a free copy of Reflection in return for an honest review and my thanks to Crime Book Junkie and Kim Cresswell for that.
February 13, 2013
REFLECTION by Kim Cresswell is an exciting romantic suspense. Follow Whitney Steel,a Investigative reporter from Florida and Blake Neely,an undercover FBI Special Agent on a journey of danger and love. Filled with hot passion,a newspaper reporter,Colombian drug lord,crime,secrets,deception,FBI,murder,suspense,and romance. An FBI Agent and a reporter fight crime and love as love blossoms. A fast paced thrill ride. Very emotional with engaging and likable characters and an intriguing plot.A must read for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense,the FBI and romance. Packed full of suspense and captivating characters. Received for an honest review from the author.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Additional Reviews
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, My Book Addiction and More/My Book Additional Reviews
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