Book Review: The Coffee Shop Masquerade by T.A. Morton

Book Details:

Author: T.A. Morton
Release Date: 23 April 2025
Series:
Genre: Philosophycal, Reflective, Asian Literature
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages: 202 pages
Publisher:
Blurb:
A mysterious mask abandoned in a Hong Kong coffee shop eavesdrops on the lives of those who enter, asking, who are we beneath our masks?
The Coffee Shop Masquerade is a captivating exploration of transient lives seeking meaning amid everyday encounters, much like the alluring cup of coffee that unites and intrigues us all.
As the enigmatic forces inspired by the Tao Te Ching loom over them, choices must be made, secrets revealed, and unexpected bonds forgedโ€”all under the watchful gaze of a mysterious mask.

Review

Rating: 5 out of 5.

The Coffee Shop Masquerade T.A. Morton feels simple on the surface but ripples with depth the longer you sit with it. Part fable, part philosophical reflection, it is an elegantly written exploration of identity, connection, and the spaces we inhabit between truth and illusion. It begins with something as ordinary as a mask left behind in a Hong Kong cafรฉ, but what follows is anything but ordinary. Through that maskโ€™s silent observation, Morton unravels a series of intertwined lives, each one searching for meaning in the chaos of modern existence.

What makes this novel so engaging is its sense of calm observation. Much like the Taoist philosophy that threads through the story, The Coffee Shop Masquerade doesnโ€™t rush toward answers; instead, it invites you to sit still and listen. Thereโ€™s something profound about the way author Morton captures loneliness and belonging, weaving them together with the aroma of coffee and the pulse of a city constantly in motion.

The prose itself feels meditative; lyrical but never indulgent. Every chapter brings a new encounter, a new glimpse into people who, in another story, might have remained background characters. Here, they each step briefly into the light, revealing the masks they wear and the truths they fear. The mysterious presence of the mask becomes both narrator and mirror, reflecting back to the reader their own unspoken longing to be seen for who they truly are.

The Coffee Shop Marquerade is a thoughtful, graceful, and profound literary reflection on identity and interconnectedness. It’s perfect for readers who love reflective fiction like The Little Paris Bookshop or Klara and the Sun, and for anyone drawn to stories that brew philosophy and emotion into something soothing yet stirring.


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Book Review: Into the Mountains: Exploring China’s Sacred Daoist Peaks by Debra Liu

Book Details:

Author: Debra Liu
Release Date:
8 July, 2025
Series:
Genre: Nature Writing, Memoir, Philosophical
Format: E-book 
Pages: 232 pages
Publisher: Earnshaw Books Ltd
Blurb:
In a journey of discovery through China’s sacred mountains, traversing the hidden caves of Huashan, freshwater pools where alchemists once lived on Luofushan, and the opulent brilliance of the Gold Palace atop Wudangshan, Debra Liu explores the rich culture and history of the Daoist tradition.
The author was ordained as a Daoist in the Qingsong group of temples, part of the Quanzhen Dragon Gate lineage, in Brisbane, Australia. She seamlessly integrates elements of Daoist philosophy and contemporary practice in this fascinating account, where the past is inextricably entwined with the present, where each step up a mountain is punctuated with magnificent vistas, archaic legends and the chants of ancient scriptures echoing across stone stairways.
Through this book, the reader can ‘enter the mountains’ to find the heart of the Daoism, as a vibrant, modern practice with deep roots in antiquity.

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

From the very first page, Into the Mountains by Debra Liu drew me in with its subtle yet powerful storytelling. Itโ€™s a narrative that carries the intimacy of lived experiences and emotions as well as the vastness of the land that shapes those experiences. Author Liu manages to capture the pull of the mountains not only as a physical space but also as a metaphor for solitude, and transformation.

What I particularly appreciated was the way the prose balances descriptive richness with emotional honesty. The mountains come alive not just through visual detail, but through atmosphere. The book is at its strongest when it weaves external journeys with internal ones, showing how isolation, challenge, and beauty leave their mark on the human psyche.

The pacing is deliberate, and I found myself savoring it rather than rushing. Author Liu doesnโ€™t force revelations but allows them to unfold organically, much like a climb itself: one step at a time, with effort and pauses to simply take in the view. By the end, I felt I had walked alongside the narrator, sharing in their solitude, their awe, and their gradual rediscovery of self.

Overall, Into the Mountains is a reflective and evocative read that will especially resonate with readers who, like me, are drawn to stories of solitude, inner transformation, and the healing power of nature. It is less about a plot and more about emotional resonance and atmosphere. And for that very reason, it lingers long after the last page is turned.


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Book Review: The Pythagorean by Alexander Morpheigh

Book Details:

Author: Alexander Morpheigh
Release Date:
September 8, 2024
Series:
Genre: Science-Fiction, Time Travel
Format: E-book 
Pages: 432 pages
Publisher: BookBaby
Blurb:
The protagonist, a young man named Theodore, is about 36 years old and resides in Athens. Following a car accident, he finds himself in the body of a young man from Ancient Greece who attempted suicide. Confused about his whereabouts, Theodore sets out to find people and seeks guidance from the Delphic Oracle โ€“ Pythia.
Pythia reveals to Theodore that he must meet his true teacher, who alone can return him to his own time. To prepare spiritually for this encounter, Theodore’s best bet is one of the greatest teachers of European civilization โ€“ Pythagoras, who coincidentally lives during that era. Theo seeks out Pythagoras and becomes his student. Throughout his education, Pythagoras explains to Theodore why he ended up in the past and the significant mission awaiting him in the future. In the process, Pythagoras imparts a wealth of intriguing facts to Theodore, blending authentic Pythagorean teachings with alternative viewpoints from contemporary science.
Theodore’s beloved Elena remains in Athens, and his lack of attention towards her weighs heavily on him.

Through his studies, Theodore learns the practice of lucid dreaming, enabling him to communicate with Elena in his dreams and share his experiences. In a critical turn of events, Theodore steals a bottle of expensive wine, leading to his arrest. Pythagoras intervenes, securing his release on bail. However, Theodore learns he can only remain on the island for a month. With his limited time, he must pass an interview with the local ruler. In another lucid dream, Theodore meets Alkeus, the young man from ancient Greece, who now inhabits his body in the present. Alkeus’ adaptability to modern life is hindered by amnesia, and he relies on others to remind him of his past.
As Theodore’s training progresses, Pythagoras not only introduces alternative, scientifically backed perspectives on the Universe’s structure and the existence of parallel worlds but also takes him on journeys to explore them. Theo’s situation becomes dire โ€“ execution awaits him if he stays in the past, while arrest and imprisonment await him in the future. In a lucid dream, he encounters his future self in a cafรฉ, realizing that his true teacher is none other than himself. Spiritual purification is the key to his return to the present. Is he prepared to embark on his crucial mission?

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Pythagorean by Alexander Morpheigh is not a typical philosophical fiction; itโ€™s a metaphysical odyssey layered with science, mysticism, and a yearning for wisdom. As someone drawn to the intersection of science, spirituality, and storytelling, I found this book not only intriguing but quietly transformative.

The novel follows Theo, a modern-day man whose life takes a surreal turn when he finds himself face-to-face with none other than Pythagoras himself, yes, that Pythagoras. What begins as a quest for answers morphs into an intellectual and spiritual apprenticeship that unravels Theoโ€™s assumptions about knowledge, time, identity, and purpose. The dialogue-driven narrative, deeply Socratic in its approach, pulls you into a rabbit hole of ideas where philosophy, quantum physics, ancient rituals, and morality all intertwine.

What I loved most was how the author managed to bridge science and spirituality. The teachings of Pythagoras aren’t presented as practical, humane, and relevant. The bookโ€™s pacing meanders at times but this isnโ€™t a novel you devour in one go but rather one you sit with, underline, and ponder. Thatโ€™s also its strength. It challenges you to slow down and think, to really question what it means to live a meaningful life in the modern world.

For readers who enjoy philosophical fiction like Siddhartha and The Alchemist, The Pythagorean offers a rich and rewarding journey. Itโ€™s part fable, part sacred dialogue, and wholly original.


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Book Review: Legacy of the Third Way by Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundiย 

Book Details:

Author: Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundiย 
Release Date: March 6, 2024
Series:
Genre: Philosophy, Literary Fiction
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages: 271 pages
Publisher: Kundi House Publishing
Blurb:
I should not be alive today. I was supposed to be a stillborn, destined for death upon arrival. Whenever I felt sad or depressed, my mother would remind me to be grateful for every day of life and to face lifeโ€™s challenges with a smile. It was easier said than done.
โˆžโˆžโˆž
“I need some guidance. How will I finance my college tuition? I mean, who will give a job or scholarship to a convicted criminal? Will I be able to get a job after I graduate?” Alex’s concerns reopened my still-fresh wound.
โˆžโˆžโˆž
This compelling novel immerses readers in a world of political intrigue and societal change, where traditional ideologies collide with the relentless forces of progress. Through the eyes of Sher Shah, a family man thrust into the spotlight, the narrative unfolds, weaving a gripping tale of power, loyalty, and the indomitable human spirit. ‘Legacy of the Third Way’ is a thought-provoking exploration of ideology and reality, offering a riveting blend of speculative fiction and social commentary.

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Legacy of the Third Way by Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundi is a wonderful book in which I found myself drawn into a world where political intrigue and personal struggle intertwine to create a compelling narrative. Through the eyes of Sher Shah, Kundi deftly explores themes of power, loyalty, and the resilience of the human spirit, inviting readers to ponder the complex intersection of ideology and reality.

One aspect of the novel that particularly stood out to me was Kundi’s skilful portrayal of the protagonist’s internal turmoil. As Sher Shah grapples with questions of identity and purpose, Kundi deftly navigates the complexities of his character, allowing readers to empathise with his struggles and triumphs. The juxtaposition of Sher Shah’s personal journey with the larger political landscape adds depth to the story, elevating it beyond a simple tale of societal change.

In addition to its engaging narrative, Legacy of the Third Way also serves as a thought-provoking commentary on contemporary issues. Kundi’s exploration of the tension between tradition and progress offers valuable insights into the challenges facing societies in an ever-changing world. Whether grappling with questions of justice, equality, or the nature of power, the novel prompts readers to reflect on their own beliefs and values, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in social and political issues.

Overall, Legacy of the Third Way is a captivating blend of literary fiction and social commentary that offers both entertainment and insight. With its richly drawn characters, immersive storytelling, and thought-provoking themes, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers long after they’ve turned the final page.


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Book Review: Thoughts: God, Science, & Human Nature byย Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundi

Book Details:

Author:ย Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundi
Release Date: December 15, 2023
Series:
Genre: Philosophy, Non-Fiction
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages: 110 pages
Publisher: Abdul Q. Kundi
Blurb:
Religion, philosophy, and science sometimes appear to contradict each other. The deeper reality is that these operate in tandem to provide a holistic appreciation of life. Natural disasters, as well as human failings, like war and border walls, create an emotional crisis individually and collectively. Humanity is going through one of these hysterical phases at the advent of the 21st century. We are experiencing terrorism, global conflict, climate change, economic meltdown, and breakdown of old liberal political order. The emergence of a COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to accelerating the crisis. Social distancing has isolated us in bubbles that seem to be on the verge of bursting. There are growing signs of the psychological, social, and emotional breakdown faced by the communities. These tough times invoke questions about the purpose of life, humanity, and our place in the universe. We need to reconnect with our soul and be comfortable with the nature of things. This book is an effort to help make sense of life and our place in it. Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundi is a politician, social, and community activist. He has authored three earlier books about political science with a focus on the role of religion in politics and community development. He has been a contributing columnist for some leading newspapers, including Independent Urdu, Pakistan Today, and Pakistan Times.

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Abdul Quayyum Khan Kundi’s Thoughts: God, Science, & Human Nature offers a thought-provoking exploration of the intersections between religion, philosophy, and science. Kundi adeptly navigates these complex topics, showing how they can work together to provide a comprehensive understanding of life.

One of the book’s strengths is its timely relevance to the challenges faced by humanity in the 21st century. Kundi addresses pressing issues such as terrorism, global conflict, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic, offering insightful perspectives on how these crises impact our collective psyche and sense of purpose.

I appreciated Kundi’s emphasis on reconnecting with our inner selves and finding comfort in the nature of existence. His reflections on the purpose of life and our place in the universe are both enlightening and reassuring, offering readers a sense of clarity in uncertain times.

Overall, Thoughts: God, Science, & Human Nature is a compelling read that encourages readers to contemplate life’s big questions while offering wisdom and guidance for navigating the complexities of the modern world. Whether you’re interested in philosophy, religion, or science, this book is sure to spark meaningful reflection and dialogue.


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Book Review: I AM NOT GOD: How Far Can a Reality Show Go by Joshua Veridical

Book Details:

Author: Joshua Veridical
Release Date:ย 
1st Febrauary 2022
Series:
Genre: Spiritualism, Philosophy
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages: 152 pages
Publisher:
Blurb:
In the Rush of living our life, it is true that we forget Purpose of life. Religion keeps us disciplined and shows us the path to find that purpose. There are many monks, Spiritual Leaders and Priests who guide us to maintain stability in life and help our soul grow. This book takes you in the unusual journey of Spiritualism where the purpose of life is found by our main protagonist but in a very unusual way.

Review

Rating: 3 out of 5.

I Am Not God by Joshua Veridical is a book based on the spiritual journey of the main protagonist that tackles many philosophical questions about life and its meaning in general. Overall the book is a decent read and proved to be a quick read. The main character, although not extremely relatable, was likeable enough for me to be able to read the entire book to learn more about his journey.

I did feel that the book needed more polishing as the writing felt a bit rough and could have been better, but of course, that is my personal opinion and being an editor myself I do have tough standards when it comes to writing style, especially in Indian literature.

This book would be perfect for readers of philosophical books and spiritual enthusiasts.


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Book Review: Some Mistakes of Darwin and a Programmer’s Theory of Life by Daniel G. Vintner

Book Details:

Author: Daniel G. Vintner
Release Date:ย 
24th May 2022
Series:
Genre: Non-Fiction, Philosophy
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages: 263 pages
Publisher: Boros Dรกniel
Blurb:
Darwin’s theory of evolution has been widely regarded as one of the greatest accomplishments of science. Except for a few individuals, most scientists have dismissed the issues that have crept up in the last century related to and in opposition to the theory of evolution. However, developments in molecular biology and genetics have failed to address some of the original concerns with the theory and also exposed even more significant flaws that should not be overlooked.
The evolution debate has been raging on the outskirts of academia for two centuries, and the sides have never been further apart than they are now. “Science versus religion” and “evolution versus creationism” was what the audience heard for a long time. In the twentieth century, God was brought down into the fighting pits of scientific society to duke it out with Charles Darwin, and for the longest time, it seemed he had lost the match for good. In recent times, though, God has put his gloves back on and seems to have managed to insert himself back into the debate.

Or has he? Has anything really changed in this debate, which is as old as debates themselves? Did evolution change, or science, or God himself? What is true from the grandiose claims of those who claim to have resurrected God by virtue of their arguments? And what truth is there in the words of the scientists who claim to have buried him?

Some Mistakes of Darwin goes back to the beginning of evolutionary thought and verifies every claim made by Darwin and his successors. Everything is put to the test, and nothing is off limits. No claim is accepted without verification and no argument is beyond questioning. Travel from the birth of genetics and molecular biology, through the advances in software engineering, to the far ends of space and time and beyond. By the last chapter, the book goes full circle and reaches the same conclusion as the philosophers of old have, from the same facts but a different perspective, arguing from science, not from scripture, for a new theory of life.

Review

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Some Mistakes of Darwin and a Programmer’s Theory of Life by Daniel G. Vintner is a very interesting book to read that will leave you thinking really hard about the age-old debate of ‘science vs religion.’

This book had a very unique premise and to say that I was intrigued by this book would be a huge understatement. After reading the book I was really impressed by the author’s arguments presented in the book and believed them to be true, finding myself leaning toward his explanations and thus, his side, more than I thought was possible. Without giving away any spoilers, I would just like to say that be prepared to be swayed from your one-sided stand after reading this book because the author might just be able to convince you to agree with his arguments.

I would strongly recommend this book to everyone who likes to explore and read about Darwin’s Theory of evolution.


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Book Review: Hold The Apocalypse – Pass Me A Scientist Please, And Other Humorous Essays From An Optimist In Dreamland by Bob Lorentson

Book Details:

Author: Bob Lorentson
Release Date: 
7th October 2021
Genre: Humor, Satire, Science, Philosophy, Psychology
Format: E-book 
Pages: 169 pages
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
Blurb:
A terrified yet occasionally optimistic environmental scientist takes a humorous look at the science behind the human and animal behaviors that make a doomed planet so interesting.
If youโ€™ve ever wanted to get the real dirt on forest bathing without getting muddied, or on animal arsonists without getting burned, or on DIY transcranial Direct Current Stimulation without risking all those excitable neurons that already have one foot out the door, then this is the book for you. Should you be of the type, however, that has found lifeโ€™s little pleasures interrupted of late by the loud ticking of the Doomsday Clock, put in some earplugs, because itโ€™s not yet too late to have a good laugh while you learn about โ€˜Cat Research for Dummies,โ€™ โ€˜Brain Wars โ€“ the Gender Variations,โ€™ or โ€˜Boredom โ€“ Itโ€™s Not Just for the Boring.โ€™

In these fifty essays, Bob Lorentson humorously uses science, philosophy, psychology, history, and even poetry to examine a myriad of curious subjects while waiting for the collapse of civilization.

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Hold The Apocalypse – Pass Me A Scientist Please, And Other Humorous Essays From An Optimist In Dreamland by Bob Lorentson is a book of essays that are unique, fresh yet, on a deeper level, quite important. These essays are humorous with undertones of various themes such as psychology, philosophy, general sciences, socio-political themes, etc. I enjoyed reading this collection because there was never a dull moment!

The author has a very unique style of writing and his sense of humour appealed to me a lot. I enjoyed each and every essay mostly because aside from the satirical approach and the social commentary, the pieces always had a deeper meaning to them and with each and every essay, the author nailed that bit.

I would highly recommend this book to readers of satire and short-story or essay collections.


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Book Review: The Greatest Game by Greg Rajaram

Author:ย Greg Rajaramย 
Release Date:ย 15th April 2021
Genre:ย Philosophy, Drama, Literary Fiction, Surreal
Series:
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages:ย 242 pages
Publisher:ย –
Blurb:
Ever since humans became self-aware, we have struggled to find the meaning of life. The price we paid for becoming intelligent was to become painfully ignorant of the difference between good and evil.

Adi, a 10-year-old boy, works together with two old philosophers as they try to unravel the prophecy of a promised King. With insatiable curiosity, Adi must work with the wise men as they rationalize with each other on why and how humans became intelligent. Together they attempt to answer some of the most profound questions related to existence. Does evolution end with human beings or is there an โ€˜Overmanโ€™ who can reach evolutionโ€™s pinnacle? Will this Overman be able to define values for humankind?
Centuries later a young boy promises his mother that he will always uphold the love that she has taught him. It is a promise that drowns him in the nectar of the gods. Krish grows up to be an engineer and joins a team of scientists as they try to create artificial consciousness in a machine.
Krish soon realizes that he has a bigger fight on his hands. A fight to preserve love in a desolate world. His quest for true love ultimately leads him down a path where he comes face to face with a fearsome snake delivering a kiss of death.
Humans have come a long way by questioning the nature of objects around us and pushing the limits of our intelligence, but itโ€™s now time that we ask the greatest question yet: when does intelligence transcend to become consciousness?

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

The Greatest Game by Greg Rajaram is a philosophical read with complex characters and plotline that will leave you introspecting about life and everything else in its wake.

This book a very fresh take on a concept well-loved and widely accepted therefore it was very interesting to read this book. I liked the author’s narrative style and the fact that the book was layered with complexity, intrigue and knowledge very well. I also liked the characterisation as they were all well-developed and rounded characters.

I’d recommend this book to all readers, especially to readers of philosophical fiction.

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Book Review: Banshee And The Sperm Whale by Jake Camp

Author:ย Jake Camp
Release Date:ย 16th February 2021
Genre:ย Literary Fiction, Philosophical, Satire, Dark Humour
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages:ย 254 pages
Publisher:ย Pski’s Porch Publishing
Blurb:
A sunset wedding in Kona. An ugly secret discovered on an iPhone. Experimental philosophical marriage counseling. Time travel. Diver Neurons and Angel Neurons separated by Sea and Sky. Banshee and the Sperm Whale takes the reader on a journey into the unconscious mind of Martin, a biracial chef from Denver who suffers from a particular kind of overabundance. Along the way, a modern allegory unfolds, and everyday notions about self-knowledge, the nature of good and evil, and possibility of finding meaning and spiritual significance in the face of inexorable uncertainty are turned inside out.

Review

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Banshee And The Sperm Whale by Jake Camp is a beautiful book full of deep and colourful ideas and concepts.

I absolutely loved this book because the author skillfully dissected a wide range of emotions. This book was so different from other contemporary literary fiction reads that I was overwhelmed with the joy of having found this gem of a book! I am truly grateful to the author for writing this brilliant book and letting his readers experience the dual nature of reality.

This book has a beautifully complex plot along with a well-written story that is highlighted by profound and introspective satire and an array of multi-layered characters. What else can you possibly ask for?

I’d recommend this book to all readers. This book is a must-read!

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ARC Review: Lodestar by Daniel Hagedorn

Author: Daniel Hagedornย 
Release Date:ย 10th February 2021
Genre:ย Science-Fiction Fantasy
Series:
Format:ย E-bookย 
Pages:ย 330 pages
Publisher:ย Atmosphere Press
Blurb:
How do humans survive after a massive pandemic that has devastated the population? Rather than living amid continued chaos and panic, the surviving population enjoys a thriving life thanks to the assistance of the network, a vast system that connects everything and everyone. The network protects from the virus while allowing everyone to lead their best life. Every dream and desire can easily be attained.

14 years into this networked world, David, one of the creators, wakes up to find that he is no longer connected. Is he the only one? And why, for what purpose? David feels almost like waking from a dream only to discover a technologically advanced world, full of beautiful and spectacular things, but all may not be what it seems. What is the difference between a dream and reality? What is the nature of experience?

Follow David as he wanders through a vast maze, uncovering layer upon layer in his search for truth. Recalling his former life, he must choose between what he feels, his natural compulsion to question everything, and what is good for humanity. The Lodestar takes you on a deep look into philosophical questions surrounding technology and its role in humanity.

Review

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Lodestar by Daniel Hagedorn is a riveting new sci-fi fantasy read that will pull you in right from the start and keep you hooked till the very last page. I really liked this book because in spite of being a technological read it had a lot of philosophical threads weaved in throughout the story which made it a very interesting and a thought-provoking read.

I liked the characterisation, vague-ish as the main ones were I really enjoyed reading about them. The writing was good and complemented the plot well. The concept, for me, was a complete win-win, and the plot structuring was good. Overall it is a nice read and I’d highly recommend it to all sci-fi readers who like reading about philosophical themes and fantastical elements.

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