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Kimberly Warner's avatar

I had so much fun reading this chapter Julie. The easy banter between Grace and Ned is next level. And then you add “They eat in silence punctuated by Grace’s occasional giggles” and I could feel all the way into my toes the delight of good company. Bravo. Such revealing, honest, well-paced writing!

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it. Your encouragement is a real boost.

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Sara Santa Clara's avatar

Love seeing the softer side of Grace. Really enjoyed the energy between her and Ned. Looking forward to seeing where it goes... Oh and the crabs... my God, what a metaphor for really giving yourself to another, leaving yourself totally vulnerable... ufff!

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Right?! Amazing creatures. Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts, Sara.

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SallyJG's avatar

What a great chapter! Charming is the word that came to mind. It’s so nice to see Grace happy, and in contact with her mother. And I learned some things about crabs….. 😂🦀🦀

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Thanks for reading, Sally. So glad you enjoyed it. Yes, crabs are pretty amazing. 🥰

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Ben Wakeman's avatar

So much ground covered in this chapter! I had no ideas how kinky crabs were. Really love the way you’re developing this thing with Ned.

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Thanks so much, Ben. Not gonna lie, I was a little worried about the crab thing. 🦀 😂

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Mary Beth Rew Hicks's avatar

Ohhhh how I love this installment! Even with inside information, you still keep on surprising me in the very best ways. 🦀🦀💜

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Awww! Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it. B-story launched!

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Stacy Boone's avatar

This chapter is playful, an excellent interruption in the seriousness of the story leading to now. There is an interesting tension to want to read the dialogue quickly yet want to slow it down like a longing embrace.

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Julie Gabrielli's avatar

Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Stacy. 💚

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Susie Mawhinney's avatar

Julie you amaze! I love that you've thrown in a little levity to a serious story... I love the last paragraph which finishes the chapter so well - one thing I'm not is bored!

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