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21 June 2012

Diana Flowers Reviews Veil of Pearls by MaryLu Tyndall

A Gem Of A Novel!
From the pen of MaryLu Tyndall comes a sweeping saga set in the early 1800s in Charleston, South Carolina; a bustling seaport city, plenteous in ships, beautiful, lush plantations, aristocrats in their gorgeous silk gowns, lavish soirees, and the sweet smell of yellow jessamine permeating the air. But underneath the social season and affluence, and the guise of gaiety, laughter, and parties, lies another world...the dark world of slavery, malice, and deceit.

At the passing of Adalia Winston's parents at the age of twelve, she becomes a slave to Sir Walter Miles at his sugar plantation in Barbados. Adalia soon realizes she has not only lost her parents, but her innocence as well. Although Adalia is only one quarter black, she is still considered a slave, and Sir Walter uses and abuses her as such. After many years of careful planning, Adalia escapes to Charleston, South Carolina, with nothing much--save her mother's black pearls, and another item that ends up becoming a terrible mistake to have brought with her. She secures a position with a kindly doctor, and since she appears white, she captures the eye of the heir of Rutledge Plantation, Morgan, who loves her for her beauty, honesty, and plucky spirit.

Morgan Rutledge, in spite of his vast wealth, is discontented and bored with his life; the soirees, the shallow women, and doing what society expects of him. His longing is to sail the wild seas into faraway lands. He realizes Adalia is more than just a passing fancy, but is also aware of the fact that his father will never approve of him marrying a commoner.

Adalia, in spite of herself, loves the attention of this handsome man and slave owner; the parties, the plays, etc., and feeling a part of the social crowd for the first time in her life. There are those, however, who are jealous of her, and will stop at nothing to bring her down. Will Morgan find out the truth...that she is naught but a runaway slave? If so, will he still want to marry her? What did she bring along with her from Barbados, that could be her total undoing, and who wants to see her destroyed and why? Will Morgan and Adalia learn to commit their ways to the Lord?...and find healing for their wounded hearts?

In my opinion, this book shows MaryLu's versatility as an author, and is her best book to date! This is a lovely, haunting, romantic story, and I ran the whole gamut of emotions while reading it; joy, fear, heartbreak---you name it. 


I'm proud at how far America has come since those horrible days of slavery, and saddened for those who had to endure it. With a strong spiritual thread throughout, many twists and turns (and wondering how things could EVER work out), this is a book I will not soon forget. What a masterpiece, MaryLu Tyndall!

I received this ARC from Barbour Publishing in exchange for my honest opinion.


Here is the link to the CBD page for more info about this book and for ordering: Click here.  Here is the Amazon order page for VoP Click here.


Giveaway:  Leave a comment for a chance to win a copy of MaryLu's upcoming release.

97 comments:

  1. Fantastic review, Diana! The story sounds quite intriguing! MaryLu's books are incredible, and I look forward to reading this one. Thanks for the chance to win!

    Michelle
    Scraphappy71 at sbcglobal dot net

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  2. I'm currently reading this book and I love it! I'm glad you didn't put spoilers in there, DIANA. :) It's a great review!

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  3. This book is AMAZING!!! MICHELLE, you don't want to miss out on this!

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  4. Thank you for the Review, The Book sounds so good, please add me to your Giveaway.
    Blessings
    Ingrid

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  5. sounds fabulous. Put me in for the drawing.

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  6. Wonderful review. I know I will love Veil of Pearls, Mary Lu knows how to capture my heart. Please include me in the drawing. Thanks.
    worthy2bpraised at gmail dot com

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  7. OKAY, let me go on record right now to say this is absolutely THE BEST MaryLu Tyndall book to date, which is hard to believe because all the others are SO incredibly good!! MaryLu is hands-down one of my FAVORITE authors and one of the few I actually buy because she is just THAT good!!

    On a personal note, ML is not only one of my dearest friends, but the sister I never had. Don't get me wrong -- I had nine sisters, but NONE of them felt like a twin like ML does, which I suppose is a cut to our featured author today, but it's true. LOVE this woman. LOVE her work!!

    WHOO-HOO!!! ONLY TEN MORE DAYS TILL VEIL OF PEARLS!!!

    Hugs,
    Julie

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  8. what a review-I felt like I was there from your very descriptive first paragraph. I am anxious to read this story.
    thanks for sharing with us...
    Paula O(kyflo130@yahoo.com)

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  9. LOL, MARIAN! I didn't even put *spoiler alert* b/c I know you read those like I do! haha Enjoy your book!

    I went to bed late last night (company), and I just woke up. Sorry everyone! It's normally 7-7:30 a.m. for me!

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  10. DIANA Fantastic Review! This was a spellbinding book! :)

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  11. Thank you, PAULA. This was an easy book to review...MaryLu's use of imagery is so awesome in this one!

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  12. Thanks, T! It most certainly was and is! :)

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  13. Welcome back, JULIE! I agree, ML's books are all good, but this one is a cut above...kinda like filet mignon!

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  14. Merry, I am convinced you will love it! I don't read books twice, but I heard from a little birdy that I'm going to be receiving a nice copy of this book as a gift (I read the MS from the publishing company), and I'm planning on reading this one again-really!

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  15. JULIE HILTON STEELE and INGRID-gotcha entered and thanks for coming by!

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  16. Good morning from California, everyone!! Diana, I was nearly in tears at your wonderful review! Thank you from the bottom of my heart! I'm thrilled you enjoyed it so much!
    And thank all of you for your kind comments and interest in winning a copy. :-)

    And of course my "twin" sister, Julie.. are you CRAZY, girl? Being considered a twin of yours is the highest compliment you could pay me! Thank you for endorsing this book. You're a doll.

    I'll check back later when I wake up. It's only 7:20 AM here. LOL. Must go get coffee!

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  17. This one sounds really good. I'd love to win a free copy!!!

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  18. CONNIE, my wonderful MD Area Coordinator, I am going to pre-order you one just for being a FABULOUS AC!! And you will LOVE this book!!!

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  19. Yippee, CONNIE, you just got a blesssing via CARRIE! You have something to look forward to my friend!

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  20. Loved the review! I can't wait to get my hands on this book and find out what the item is that she brought with her. If I don't win I'll be on my way to the nearest book store to pick up a copy ASAP!!!

    ecriggs1990(at)aol(dot)com

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  21. MARYLU, now you have me nearly in tears. Thank you so much! I was afraid I could never do this awesome book justice, and I sincerely prayed and asked the Lord to help me. I'm sure there are others that can do a better job, but my review is absolutely from the heart...loved, loved, loved this book!

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  22. I am really looking forward to reading this book! I know it's is going to great and an amazing read!!
    samanthaakuiper(at)gmail(dot)com

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  23. I thought that part would entice would be reader's, LIZ! lol Yes, you must get you a copy asap--release date is July 1st...10 more days! WOOT!

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  24. SAMANTHA-great and amazing is right! Hoping you will win a copy here, but if not don't let this one get by you! One of my faves of 2012!

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  25. I loved your post, Diana. It had enough hooks to make me guess what Adalia "brought with her". I'm looking forward to reading MaryLu's Viel of Pearls.

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  26. Whatever it was, JANET, I wish she had left it behind! :( Hoping for a win for you here!

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  27. your review is the perfect incentive for reading this story! i am already entranced ~ TY!
    the cover is captivating, now i know the content is as well!
    appreciate the giveaway generosity too :) TY!

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  29. FAITH HOPE CHERRYTEA, this is a must read! Be sure to order it, if you don't win it here!

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  30. Diana, are you kidding me? This is one of the best reviews I've read! And it's not because it's about my book, either. :-) Your descriptions are fabulous and you give just enough information to tease the reader. Loved that you didn't disclose what she brought with her.

    And I'm waving at everyone who commented!! Thank you all so much for your kind words!!! I wish you all could win a copy!

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  31. MARYLU, DIANA does such an awesome job. Hey, our Colonial American Christian Writer pal, JANET, needs to have a copy! She is our Yorktown writers co-hostess with me for the northern branch of the Tidewater Area Christian Writers. I am adding JANET to my list of people who are getting a copy of this amazing book! CONGRATS to JANET!

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  32. I really want to read this book!

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  33. Thank you, MARYLU and CARRIE, for your kind words. CARRIE, if it was left up to you, I believe everyone on here today would get a copy of this fine book! lol!

    MARYLU, I wish this would get into the hands of the right person, who could help make this into a movie. I'm thinking Hallmark Channel here. It would make a wonderful movie! I watched the trailer 3 times already!

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  34. KIM-I'm like CARRIE! I want you and everyone else to have it as much as you want it! lol!

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  35. enter me please

    winterrose at comcast dot net

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  36. Don't get my hopes up, Diana. I'd LOVE to see it in a movie! The trailer really does whet one's appetite to see the story on the big screen! But God is in charge. :-)

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  37. Veil of Pearls sounds like an amazing, one-of-a-kind romance. This time period in America and the writing of MaryLu Tyndall are two of my favorites, but your review, Diana, has made me even more excited to read this book!

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  38. Because I devour historical fiction books, I'm always looking for ones that stand out from the crowd. Diana Flowers' review has convinced me that this book needs to be in my hands. Now! Excellent review, Diana. Can't wait to get my copy and be transported to another place that only a gifted author can arrange.

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  39. Thank you, Carrie. And, oh by the way, I WANT THAT DRESS!

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  40. CYNTHIA- you are too kind! Thank you and I promise you this book will not disappoint!

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  41. LISA, thank you for your kind words! Hoping you will be enjoying a copy of your own asap!

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  42. Can't wait to read this one! Thanks for the giveaway. :)

    sunshine6892 at hotmail dot com

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  43. Great review! Can't wait to read it!

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  44. Congratulations, Diana, on your anniversary with OTT! You are the best book reviewer ever. I think there is a novelist inside of you yet! Thanks for sharing this exceptional review of MaryLu's upcoming book. I'm salivating!

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  45. That dress is to die for, isn't it, Janet? And those beaded gloves. My publisher did a great job on the cover. Waving at Lisa Norato! Thank you for dropping by and being so sweet. :-)

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  46. CHAPLAINDEBBIE-good luck in the giveaway!

    CATHY-Just threw your name in my cyberhat!

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  47. Great review Diana and Happy Anniversary for being on OTT!!!!

    This book sounds amazing, I have not read any of MaryLu's books but definietly want to one day.

    Jen
    jen.whitney08 at gmail dot com

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  48. MISS KIM!!!!! My CPer made it safely to her new destination. And too far away from me. Of course we want you to read this awesome book!!!

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  49. HAHA, DIANA, you are right!!! In fact my Richmond Chapter President, CYNTHIA, must have this book!!!

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  50. JANET, you are welcome, and you would look "mahvelous dahling" in that gorgeous dress!!!

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  51. Speak it CARLA! Our reader/Senior Reviewer has an inner author busting to get out. I think DIANA could do either nonfiction or fiction if she wanted.

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  52. Oh, JEN honey, you are missing out! Her books are fantabulous--especially this one! You will love it!

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  53. CARRIE, you are so funny...I was just waiting on that reply to CYNTHIA! haha An inner author busting to get out?? No, inside there is a skinny person trying to get out, and I won't let her...or my poor eating habits won't anyway...sigh.

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  54. Maybe a skinny author, Diana.. you never know what God's plans are!

    Anyway, wanted to thank both Carrie and Diana for having me and for all their encouragement and praise. Both of you are truly dear to me!!

    And thanks to everyone else for your interest!

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  55. Wow! This was an excellent review and I must say you made me really want to read this book! All of Mary Lu's books are awesome...and I love the cover of this one! I'd like a dress like that one! lol

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  56. Well maybe at least 20 lbs less, MaryLu...perhaps not skinny or I'll be as wrinkled as a prune! lol

    We feel the same about you, MaryLu, and it has been such a pleasure. May God continue to bless your writing in a mighty way, and I will be praying about that movie deal! God can move mountains, and if it's His will....

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  57. I love MaryLu's books and this one sounds like another one I won't want to miss thanks for the chance to win a copy

    ABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com

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  58. APPLE BLOSSOM-THIS IS DEFINITELY ONE NOT TO BE MISSED!!! Got your name in our random number hat! :)

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  59. Veil of Pearls!! You are so generous!! I would love to win! Kathleen
    lanehillhouse[at]centurylink[dot]net

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  60. Sounds like a very intriguing story! I would love to win! Thanks for the opportunity!
    Marie Ferland
    mariefluffy@yahoo.ca

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  61. I love MaryLu's books....and am thankful for the chance to win this one!!!
    jackie.smith[at]dishmail[dot]net
    Jackie S.

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  62. SHERRINDA, how did I miss your smiling face up there, gf? I quite agree--that dress on the cover is gorgeous! Here's to a win!

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  63. KATHLEEN, your enthusiasm always makes me smile!

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  64. JACKIE and MARIE-thank you for your support. Good luck in the drawing!

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  65. I love MaryLu's writing! This is a beautiful review, too.

    julesreffner(at)gmail(dot)com

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  66. JULIA R. (I think we have several Julias on here today), thank you for your kind compliments! MaryLu has always been one of my favorite authors, but she just seems to get better and better!

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  67. This is a super review, Diana!

    I also am not ashamed to say I have an ulterior motive for being here; hopefully if I throw my hat in the ring, I can win a copy because I'm thinking of passing it on as a gift.

    VoP IS FANTASTIC, MaryLu--you are such a top writer....and your characters are powerfully written. I keep saying as each of your books come out that this is the best one you've written, then along comes another. And you consistently show what a deep spiritual well you draw from--our Lord!

    I hope these comments have encouraged you and Blessings!

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  68. Haha PAT, I put your name on the CACW list! Did you see that VoP got the TOP PICK at Romantic Times!!!

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  69. PAT, that is so sweet of you to want to win VoP for a gift! I so agree with you; I've read just about all of ML's books and she just gets better and better. I wonder what she is working on next? I got caught up in the excitement of the moment and forgot to ask!

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  70. Hi Carrie!:) Yes--it is wonderful--so happy for her! I was over to GoodReads today and did a recommendation for her books. Would love to get a handle on all these things; FB, GoodReads, Twitter, Pinterest, etc.--makes my head spin! A bit overwhelming, so I guess I'll take it a wee bit at a time.

    Again thank you, Diana....that's what I'd love to find out too! Blessings for a great weekend, ladies!

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  71. Another beautiful review, Diane. I love these historical fiction books that are based in the south. Thanks for the review and another giveaway!
    Nancee
    quiltcat26[at]sbcglobal[dot]net

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  72. HAPPY, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!! You do good work here. Thanks for the giveaway opportunity. This cover is very inviting!!

    Thanks for putting my name in the hat!

    Blessings

    Nora :o)

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  73. Just want to add my congratulations to Diana for one year of reviewing for OTT-WGH. Your reviews have been a blessing!

    And also congrats and huzzahs to MaryLu for her 4.5 star review on RT Book Reviews! Way to go, MaryLu!

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  74. This book sounds fascinating! I'm going to keep my eye out for it...

    Patty
    pattymh2000(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  75. Thank you, NANCEE. This book takes place in Charleston, such a wonderful historical city, about an hr and 1/2 away from my house!

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  76. PATTY, this is one not to be missed!

    NORA, its always a pleasure! I know how busy you are! And thank you for the anniversary well wishes!

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  77. Thank you, LISA! Such kind words to start my day with! And yes, a big CONGRATS to MaryLu for that fabulous 4.5 star review from RT!!!

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  78. This sounds sooo good!! Can't wait to read it!

    marissamehresman(at)aol(dot)com

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  79. I am overwhelmed by everyone's comments and kindness! I wish I could address you each individually. Thank you Carrie and Diana for having me on your wonderful blog! Thank the other wonderful ladies I know, Pat, Julie, and Lisa.. for your kindness! And thank you everyone interested in winning this book. :-) It's been a pleasure... God Bless you all!

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  80. I love historical fiction! Sounds like a great book

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  81. MARISSA and KIM F. good luck in the giveaway! KIM, we need an email addy, honey!

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  82. Yet another book! MaryLu I knew you could do it again. You're awesome.

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  83. LYNN, this is an awesome book--a must read!

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  85. I would love to win "Veil of Tears". I already have on my wish list and looking forward to reading. Love the cover, sets the tone of the book.

    misskallie2000 at yahoo dot com

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  86. MISSKALLIE, nice to see you again! This is a fantastic book, and I know you will enjoy it immensely---her best yet IMO!

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  87. I sooooooo cannot wait to get my hands on this book! I've been looking forward to it ever since MaryLu shared what it was about--and the cover just takes my breath away! So excited!

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  88. ROSEANNA! I'm so thrilled to have been able to read and review it, so I understand your excitement! Definitely one of my fave reads---ever!

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  89. PATTY is our winner!!! CONGRATS!!! I sent an email.

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  90. PATTY, YOU LUCKY DUCK!!! Congrats to you, dear friend!

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  91. Congratulations, Diana, on your 1 year Anniversary, : !)

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  92. Thank you, LINORE! It's wonderful authors and friends such as you who have made it such a delightful year!

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  93. Love her books! Would love to win this.
    Battles2001@hotmail.com

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  94. MELISSA, go to http://colonialquills.blogspot.com today and leave a comment there. We already had a winner but there is a giveaway there this week. Blessings!

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  95. This sounds like a really good book and I can't wait to read it. My favorite books are historical fiction

    Vicki (seasia777@aol.com)

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