Scandalous Prince is a story that I have been meaning to get to for quite a while now. I had a blast with book one which was also my first book by thiScandalous Prince is a story that I have been meaning to get to for quite a while now. I had a blast with book one which was also my first book by this author. I have been meaning to return to this series but I knew that it would be wildly angsty and crazy and wanted to be in the right mood. I definitely was in the correct mood for this book here. I actually had a blast with this story and seeing how this story developed, it was so different from the first book. This has a mix of mistaken identity with marriage of convenience. We see a hero who has had to hide his identity from everyone and to save the life of the woman he loved, he had to take on his other identity and in doing so leads him and Violet to a marriage of convenience. It has such a strong mafia feeling to it, and you see how crafty this author pens this story and I was having so fun with how well it was developed here. This author really handled it so well and it had some deep layers that I loved. I really enjoyed seeing this pair find their way to their HEA here. I was hooked within the story and I was charmed by the group of characters here and loving this family even the crazy wild moments. You definitely have to let go of preconceived notions with these books, they are bananas at times, but I really love this writing style as it can be refreshing to read a story that will push your boundaries or expectations a bit more. I had a blast with this book and definitely eager to see how she develops the other books and these characters. ...more
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
It might have started with a kinky arrangement, but it led us here, right where we’re supposed to be
First Impressions Give Me More is the third book in the Salacious Players Club and this is the book that I have been the most excited for. There has been so much hype surrounding this book here so to say that I was apprehensive is an understatement, because sometimes….alright…many times over-hyped books just won’t end up working out for me. But I can say that this totally worked for me! I absolutely loved this, I don’t think it’s better than Praise BUT it does come to a close match for it. This is also an MMF romance, so I know menage isn’t going to work out for everyone. But I found this book to be so intricately layered and just beautiful in every way. These three just have my heart and I do think that this one is worth ALL of the hype and really all of these books are worth the hype. Sara Cate is a brilliant author and she will pull you so quickly into a story.
They can joke about secret desires all they want, but none of them will ever truly know how agonizing it is to keep yours in forever because mine will never, ever come out. I won’t let it.
Summary Our story begins with our trio Drake, Hunter, and Isabel. Drake and Hunter have been best friends for over two decades, they have had each other’s back through their poor home situations. Drake has been open about him being bi and his sexual preferences. But Hunter grew up in a home with an emotionally abusive father who put him down constantly and has kept his attraction to men to himself and not even Drake knows of it although there has always been an intense bond between them that they aren’t even fully aware of yet. Then enters Isabel, and Hunter worked for years to be worthy of her and now they have been married for a decade. They have always kept Drake close to them, but when they together go on a tour to explore sex clubs throughout the country, to see how they can make improvements for their club and make connections, through a shibari scene, Hunter starts to realize he wants Drake and Isabel together. As the three of them start to explore the change in their relationship, Hunter will have to face up to his past, because merging Drake into their dynamic will mean he will need to admit his feelings for Drake and he wants to be worthy of both Drake and Isabel and keep them together as they always have been only now…..they are stronger than ever and he will fight for them all…..
Maybe the reason my marriage is so sacred to you is because you’ve always been a part of it
What I Loved I don’t get a chance to read MMF very often, most menage situations I have read have usually been MFM, but I actually adore MMF. I will say that I absolutely was blown away by this book and how it was crafted by the author. Menage can be tricky sometimes, especially when there is a higher level of heat because you need to see the layers between it especially when we have a married couple and then throw in a third individual into their dynamic, I want to assure you that the way this story developed was so intricate and slow-building in the relationship aspect. There is a high level of heat but I do think that it’s the sex scenes where we really see the development of their relationship, it’s these small moments that come out of these scenes that really tie these three together. I really enjoyed the way we get the aspects of BDSM and sex play in this book. It was delightful to see how playful these three are together, of course, they have a friendship as their foundation so seeing the embrace of what they have been feeling and seeing their slow journey together and finding their own path was such a beauty to witness and read. I absolutely adored the way they learned to let go of past reservations and embrace this new change in their relationship.
We are stumbling into dangerous territory, but I might as well be drunk on his touch because there’s no righting this collision course we’re on now
What I Struggled With Nothing really, Hunter took a bit too long embracing himself but other than that, this book came close to perfection.
Overall View Give Me More is a stunning installment that will literally capture your attention, gravitate your emotion, raise your libido and leave you breathless with the level of intricate intimacy that is displayed. A ROMANCE GUARANTEED TO LEAVE YOU SPEECHLESS!
We’ve always been best friends, but maybe that’s what best friends are—soulmates in disguise.
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions Forbidden Promises is the first book in the Jackson Falls series and this is also my first book read by this author. I saw this one at my library and just had to grab it, the cover was gorgeous and I have been meaning to try out this author. And it also has a bit of a southern soap opera with some family dynamics thrown in the mix. And what we get in this book was so delightful. I was immediately pulled into the story and I knew from the first chapter that it would be one drama-filled ride but an entertaining ride. I really liked the forbidden feel to the romance and the way that there were some big hurdles that the couple would have to overcome. I also liked seeing the way that these two were together and their dynamics were so interesting. I am definitely intrigued by the setting and this family and this won’t be my last Williams romance.
Summary India Robidoux and Travis Strickland have a painful past. They once had a hope for a relationship, but then it was squashed when her sister became pregnant and Travis was duty-bound to marry her. Now they are divorced and Travis and India are back in each other’s proximity as India has come home for a visit and with her brother needing help with a political campaign for Senate, she is determined to help him as much as she can. But what she doesn’t expect, is that in doing so, she would be in such close contact with Travis. The chemistry between them is stronger than ever and she knows that what they had has never gone away, just been suppressed. They make a mutual decision to keep it from her family until the primaries but Travis is a man of honor and hates keeping secrets. But India fears what will happen to her and her family if the truth comes out that she has always loved Travis, and that she may have to make a choice between her family and the man that she loves….
What I Loved Forbidden Promises was such an interesting story, it does start out a bit slow, but very quickly I was captivated by the story. There was a quick transition in wanting to fight for these characters and what they had together. I also was so intrigued to see where their romance would develop. I do have a weakness for a good forbidden romance and nothing is more forbidden than being in love with your sister’s ex-husband who still wants him. I think out of the pair, Travis is one I adore, because of what a man of integrity he is. I loved that he hated keeping secrets and so it took some time to warm up to India. I struggle with heroines who keep deceptive secrets but her character warmed her way into my heart. I eventually wanted her to fight for herself and what wanted. MY heart broke for her and what happened with her parents. As her father cheated on her mother when she was dying of cancer and is now marrying his long-time mistress and you definitely feel the pain that it does to India and why she is so bitter against her father. And also I loved that she is a violinist (as I am as well and I hardly see them in romance) I really loved her siblings though and I am so interested in seeing what their stories will be. I also have been wanting to pick up more diverse books and I love a well-written black romance, and this had such a level of tender sweetness and I found it so refreshing. The book is so focused on just a fun sexy romance and I can’t wait to explore this author’s writing.
What I Struggled With I did struggle with India’s character at times, especially in the first half of the story. I just wanted her to get a spine and stand up to her family. And also the beginning is a bit slow at times, which is why I detracted a star from my rating.
The Narration This narrator ROCKED this book, with how well the accents were done. Sometimes accents can distract me from the story, but its done perfectly in this book and I just want to listen to more of her work because of how well she adapted the story and had it be a book I just couldn’t put down.
Overall View I found Forbidden Promises to be a heartfelt, stunning romance that quickly held my attention and warmed my heart in such an unforgettable way! Bring on the Jackson Clan!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions No Marriage of Convenience is a standalone by Elizabeth Boyle but it is part of the “Avon Romantic Treasure” line and I have been wanting to explore this line way more and delve into other older historicals. I very quickly grabbed this one up here from Amazon and I was immediately drawn into the story so I definitely have no regrets in reading this one. This is one of the older Elizabeth Boyle books and I really loved seeing her older style of writing and it had a refreshing feel to it. I also found that this one was super easy to get into, with a fun setup between our main characters, it delivered on the fun side characters and plenty of humor to satisfy the historical reader. It was such an easy one to just relax into and I really felt like this one was such a solid read. I was nervous before going into this one because there are a ton of mixed reviews on GoodReads for this one, however, I ended up having a blast with it and was highly entertained all the way through.
Summary Mason St. Clair, is the Earl of Ashlin, and inherited the title when his brother died. Mason is a scholar and never expected to inherit a title or a pile of debts or three nieces that he needs to find good matches for. And then walks in a lady of mystery and beauty….Riley, an infamous actress and has come to Mason for assistance in keeping her show open and to try to settle the debt that needed to be resolved. Mason’s cousin Felicity suggests that Riley help tutor his nieces to prepare them for society and Riley knows that she has little choice but to accept. There is a chemistry between Mason and Riley but neither of them act on it, as they know the difference of their stations, but they can’t deny that there is something real between them. But as there is a stalker threatening to kill Riley,, Mason is determined to protect a woman he has come to care deeply for, but there are secrets of the past that will come to the forefront, and will Mason and Riley find a way to resolve their bind and a path to a HEA….
What I Loved No Marriage of Convenience was quite an entertaining ride and I honestly had such a fun time with this one here. I really was so curious to see where the author would take this one here. I was so fascinated to see where this would go and what the author would deliver with this story. I will say that this book is super easy to get into, and I was really drawn into the story all the way through. I really loved how the writing just captivated my interest. There is such fun humor and it was well balanced in the story. I really adored the pairing of an Earl with an Actress, but they are both of scholarly type of minds, so while on paper they may seem like the complete opposite, they are both well-read individuals and that is where they connect first….is on an intellectual level. There is some fun moments of course especially when you had an actor troupe in the mix and three young women that are ill-mannered and learning their way through society. The story is really engaging, as we see the origins of the heroine’s mother, and it was that prologue that pulled me into the story. We see the villain’s true purpose and it was interesting to see how that was built into the climax that was delivered. The heat of this book is tame, there is some well-written chemistry but its a moderate level. The ending was highly satisfying and the way that Mason and Riley find their way together just worked for me and left me thoroughly happy. A solid romance and eager for more of this author’s older work.
What I Struggled With There wasn’t too much, I could have used a bit more focus on the romance in the first half and a higher level of chemistry but still a solid fun read. And the title is misleading—-there is NO marriage of convenience, I know the blurb makes a prospective reader assume there is but since marriage doesn’t happen until the very end….you won’t see any marriage of convenience.
Overall View No Marriage of Convenience was a well-balanced story that had a fun premise that ended up delivering in just the right way. It’s a story that will engage the reader, deliver in its witty dialogue, and offer a warm poignant feeling in the end that will bring a smile to your face!
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Every single thing that has ever happened in my life has led me here, Sal. Destiny is a ladder, a series of steps that takes you where you’re supposed to go. I am the man that I am, and I have done the things that I’ve done, to get me to you.
First Impressions Kulti is a story that I have been meaning to read for ages and I am so glad that I finally took a chance on this one and picked it up because it was so worth the read. I was nervous because this book is probably the most hyped out of all of Zapata’s books and I was so curious to see why it was so well-loved and I can definitely understand now why it is so loved and why people rated this book so highly. It makes perfect sense now and is at the top of my list of favorites from this author. I really enjoyed the elements that she brought to the surface, the interracial romance, the slow burn frenemies and the soccer theme to it (which are very rare in romance). I really love the way that this author writes slow burn but if you struggle with it, I recommend her audiobooks, they are narrated so well!!
You are the most honest, warm, loving person I know. Your loyalty and friendship amazes me every day. I have never wanted anything more in my life than I want your love, and I don’t want to share that with anyone. I haven’t done a single thing in my life to deserve you, schnecke, but I will never give up on you, and I won’t let you give up on me.
Summary Our story begins with our heroine, Sal Casillas, who has always dreamed of playing soccer and has been in love with the most famous soccer player in the world “Kulti” who is a German player. But now Kulti is retired, and Sal is playing on a team after getting kicked off the national team due to a misunderstanding. But now she is determined to play the best that she can and enjoys being close to her family in Texas. Her new assistant coach is none other than the infamous Kulti and Sal has to remind herself to not let her attraction to the stubborn, strict coach get to her head. But there is a friendship that starts to form between Kulti and Sal slowly which turns into something deeper than friendship, and Sal is also having to face some tough decisions due to her friendship and Kulti being in the public eye. But as Sal and Kulti build on their relationship, they will also discover the truths behind their passion for the sport and what their future will bring…
my oversized bratwurst took a step forward and he did it… He was hugging me. Dear God, Reiner Kulti was hugging the shit out of me.
What I Loved Kulti was such a refreshing story and one that I gobbled up like crazy. I will admit that it starts off slow, and I had to remind myself that this is a Mariana Zapata novel, and so it’s going to be a slow book but once I got to about 20-25% then it really started to kick in gear for me and I couldn’t put this audiobook down at all. There were so many aspects of the story that ended up working out for me so well. I got a kick out of this romace and saw how these two connect in such an unexpected way. I especially loved Sal’s infatuation with Kulti. And all the “poop” references were so funny, she had to remind herself he was a human being all the time when she is around him and when things start to get more romantic with them, she really has to adjust how she views him and I enjoyed seeing her growth of character in this. It was really heartfelt and my heart broke for her in some moments because Kulti sees her ability and how the team she is currently on is burying her talent and not using it as it should be. Seeing some truths revealed about Kulti and his connection to Sal was so beautiful in these small moments that really delivered on the heart of the story. The ending was pure perfection and bumped the book up from a 4-star read to a 4.5. If you love a slow-burn romance with a mix of frenemies to lovers then you definitely need to pick this one up. It also has a fun dynamic with the hero being German and the heroine having Hispanic descent and how well they blend together.
You’re one of the best I’ve ever seen, period, man or woman. What kills me is that you are a complete fucking pushover who’s hung up on worthless words in front of a person who doesn’t matter. Grow some balls, Casillas. Fight me for this. Fight anyone that tries to take this away from you.
What I Struggled With The story has a very slow start and so that was a struggle, especially in the first 15% of the book, but once we get to 20% it really picked up. I also would have loved to see more couple page time as they don’t get romantically involved until later and would have loved to see more focus on their romantic relationship.
The Narration This narrator was BRILLIANT! She handled the accents so well on this one and I was so impressed because sometimes accents will turn me off or be too distracting, but nope these were done just right!
Overall View Kulti is a beautiful slow-building romance that takes the passion of the sport and blends it into a captivating friend to lovers romance that will touch the heart of every reader! This is a story that any romance reader can depend on delivering in all the feels and heart that just touched me deeply!
You are my gift, my second chance, and I will cherish you and your dream. I will protect both of you.
See Me After Class is a story that I had heard some great things about so I decided to pick it up as I have been wanting to try out more of this authoSee Me After Class is a story that I had heard some great things about so I decided to pick it up as I have been wanting to try out more of this author and wow I had no clue that this had an Austenesque retelling and I LOVED every part of that aspect. I just love a well-done "Pride and Prejudice" retelling and Meghan Quinn really knocked this one out of the park. I will say that my only issue with the story and the biggest issue that kept this one from a five-star is the pacing. For some reason, I had a hard time really getting into this one but I am glad that I stuck with this one as it eventually made it worth it once the "relationship" really go going. It was a bit more slow-building so it takes a while but I enjoyed seeing their chemistry build with each other and the whole grumpy hero totally worked for me and it definitely knows how to grovel, so well, that I think the heroine was too harsh on him. But I do wish there was more of a HEA, it just had more of an HFN feel to it. This was not a perfect book and not my favorite from this author, but I had a fun time, and the laughs, especially in the second half was perfection! I am intrigued by the side characters and seeing their stories in the rest of the series. ...more
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions Kiss Hard is the most recent release of the Play Hard series and this is Danny’s book of the Esera family. I had heard so many great things about this book so I was super eager to pick this one up. When I was browsing through my Hoopla catalog, I saw that this one was available, and I instantly grabbed at the chance to get this one and immediately started listening to this one. This is a mix of frenemies to lovers type of story. Both of our main characters have known each other for years, but have kinda hated and teased each other for many years but also have this weird friendship bond even though there is this level of playful animosity between them. We see how their mannerisms have to learn to change when a fake dating has to happen between them, but there is already this chemistry between them that they are both in denial of and it was quite intriguing to see them work through that and learn to let down their guards. And this set up made for a solid read.
Summary Daniel Esera is a Rugby god on the field, he has the type of talent that makes him one of the best players in the world but when he suffers an injury he is learning to recover and adapt to his new set or circumstances and wonders what it will take to get back to his top form again And then enters our heroine Catie River, who is working toward the Paralympic gold as she wears foot prosthetics and has worked her butt off to be independent and embrace what technology gives her the opportunities for. She hasn’t had the type of family connection and support that Danny has had, with a gambling father and a mother that isn’t the most healed from it. When Danny and Catie are forced together in a charade of posing as lovers, something more happens between them and they both realize that there is something fundamental between them that is worth fighting for. But Catie has trust issues, and doesn’t know if she can open herself up enough to give her heart to Danny…but will Danny find a way to allow her to open up herself to a possibbiity of a future with him?
What I Loved I really found some great elements to this story and I really wanted these two to find their journey towards their HEA. I really at times found myself entertained by their jbantering, it was so different than anything I have read from this author so I found it quite refreshing. There is also a good focus on consent and respect between the genders and I actually really liked the way that this was written. It might not work for every author but I felt that Singh really balanced it out so well within the story that made it work just right. I loved how respectful and gracious Danny is with Catie. He understands her and what she needs and I really admired how he swallowed his pride at times to allow her to work through her struggles on her own due to how independent she is. I did like Catie in some moments where she knew what she needed for herself but also respected others for their choices, she had a sense of integrity and acceptance of others that was quite endearing. The romance that developed between them was quite beautiful and I couldn’t wait to see how their feelings would grow. I was completely endeared by the small quiet poignant moments that grow between them and seeing them let go of the animosity and let each other into their hearts and see each other in a way that they haven’t before, There is a sense of fresh start to this story and it was quite interesting to see how they follow their own dreams while also carving a relationship that is worth fighting for.
What I Struggled With The only element to the story that I really struggled with is the heroine. I felt like she could be too full of herself and at times too independent, I understood why she is the way that she is, but at the same time I didn’t like how she treated Danny at times. I wished she would have swallowed her pride just like he was willing to and give back as much as he gave to her. But eventually she grew on me. But the hero is who made the story ROCK for me.
The Narration The narration on this was EXCELLENT, it was handled just write for the tone of the story that it was. I felt like the narrator really handled the bantering between this pair just right and really portrayed the level of personality just right. And such a lovely voice that made me want to listen longer and longer.
Overall View I found Kiss Hard to be a feisty, unhinged romance that will deliver in laughs and levels of emotion and consent. Its a story of growth, chasing your dreams and embracing love that comes your way when you least expect it!
Running Into Love is the 1st book in the series by this author, and this is also a new to me author that I finally got to pick up and I had a BLAST. IRunning Into Love is the 1st book in the series by this author, and this is also a new to me author that I finally got to pick up and I had a BLAST. I have been looking for more romantic comedies that don’t have illustrated covers and this book fits exactly what I was looking for. I had come across this in my shelves on GoodReads and was thinking why haven’t I read this author yet. So I read a sample on Amazon, and I immediately grabbed it from KU because I was so hooked on it. The first page….y’all ….I was completely hooked into the story and it felt so good. I love it when I pick a new author and their writing just sucks me into their story. I really was amazed by the mix of humor and heart that this story conveys. It was short, sexy, and sweet! I absolutely love these types of romances and this author just felt like a great palate cleanser as well. I was hooked into the mix of a Police Detective as our hero (who is also a alphamellow) and our heroine, who is a crazy school teacher. And they mixed together so well. I really had a blast with the hoots of laughter and the crazy family shenanigans and how patient Levi was with Fawn. They were so perfect together, and just seeing them really connect so well from beginning to end was such a treat. I was drawn into their dialogue and the way it was so flirty yet feisty. They both have strong personalities but balanced each other out. It was such an interesting story though, the chemistry was gold and they were both so invested in the relationship and it really built up in such a sweet way and I definitely will be reading this author again, I definitely need more books like this in my life!...more
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
To him, I am perfect. The most important thing in the world.
I do have his heart in my hands.
First Impressions I first heard about this book from the “Smart Women Read Romance” Podcast and I have seen it all over bookstagram. So honestly, I knew that I wanted to read this. And if you are curious about this I guarantee that the way that Juliette and Jessen talk about this book had me instantly one-clicking this one (Its also in KU, so if you are looking for a solid read I recommend it) I was so intrigued by the set up of this story and I just knew that it would be for me, I do love the alpha male of a pack being mated to someone on the lower end of the pack and I was fascinated to see this story unfold. I was pretty hooked once I started reading this one here and I was fascinated by the way that this couple comes together and the pack dynamics were so interesting. It does have elements of masculinity and a patriarchal society which I was ALL for. This also was a book that didn’t shove feminism down your throat, it was a more classic age type of feminism balanced into the story and tended to flow pretty well with everything. I also loved seeing the romance build the way that it does. If you are looking for some solid telling of a shifter romance, look no further than this one here.
Summary The story sets off with our heroine Una, who is lame, she got an injured leg when she was just a girl when a shifter male got lunar madness and she protected a baby from harm but in the process was severely injured and her leg never fully healed from the attack, She and the other loner females are secluded from the pack and as they aren’t mated, or have a male family member, they help serve the pack the meals. But the females have been working their own side work so that that they can be more independent even though it’s against the pack laws, and to make their own money. During a dinner where Una is helping the other females serve the pack the meal, her wolf comes to the realization that the cocky arrogant alpha of their pack is their mate when another female touches him. Una shifts into her wolf and attacks the female who is way more dominant and powerful than she is and she is almost killed in the fight. Her mate acts like she is crazy in claiming that they are mates as they have known each other since they were children and they would have known, In heat and being rejected by her mate, Una goes into the woods to find solace, when an older female who has magical abilities, removes the bond and she is able to find peace again. But slowly Killian starts to realize the truth that they are mates and has to work his way back into Una’s good graces and prove to her he is sincere but it’s not an easy road for either of them, especially with dissenters in the pack looking to destroy everything that Killian has built.
You don’t need to win an alpha challenge. an alpha belongs to you
What I Loved I absolutely loved this book so much, I really was so intrigued by the fact that the hero rejects his mate. We don’t see this type of setup too often in shifter romance and I was so fascinated in seeing how Killian would prove to Una he was genuine. He is so stubborn and I loved seeing him come to the truth. I really was fascinated by the world-building that we are introduced into though here…and also loved how crafty Una and the other females are. I love that they build their own business so that they can have things like cell phones and grow their own food and sell it in the human markets, I know by the sound of this world, its sounds very restrictive to women, but considering under Kilian’s fathers rules, women had no rights and they were practically living caveman style of thinking, there has been lots of change that Killian has been responsible for. I really loved that this book had a duo POV and we get to see Killian’s perspective and what a good man he truly is,. He didn’t have the best father in the world, and he just wants his pack to be safe and whole but I also respected how he doesn’t get upset when the females want more like enjoying playing video games and the like. The romance was beyond so sweet at times, and I loved how nurturing Killian is for Una. He is actually pretty respectful even if his alpha tendencies get in the way at times. And also we see some hidden secrets revealed about the history behind Killian and Una that goes back to when they were kids and it was so darling. Its definitely a story that will keep you on your toes.
I need not to have fucked up the best thing that’s ever happened in my life before it even happened.
What I Struggled With Nothing too specific, there were small moments where the pacing slowed a bit which keeps the rating from a full five-star read.
Overall View I found this story to be such an entertaining ride that I had so much fun with, I couldn’t resist the romance that is built within this story, it offers such intimacy, laughter and deep layered facets you won’t expect!!
He whispers in my ear, “Everything I’ve ever done, I’ve done for you, Una Hayes.”
I will be honest in that this won’t be a full-length review, I have quite a migraine building but I wanted to share my thoughts on this book with you.I will be honest in that this won’t be a full-length review, I have quite a migraine building but I wanted to share my thoughts on this book with you. I would like to mention that this book wasn’t exactly what I was hoping for which is why it’s a four-star but I still had quite a blast with this one. I just didn’t find myself fully engaged as I normally am with this author and her books. I am not sure if it was just the setup of the story that just didn’t quite work out for me or not. So it did take a while for me to be fully engaged within the story. I was interested in the story and seeing how this would be all adapted and seeing these characters really come together. We have our main couple which is Justin and Chloe. Justin is a bad boy biker who is flirty and has been trying to get Chloe to take him seriously. But seriously has a past that warns her off from anyone that could be a bad boy or appears to be. We see how hard Justin has to work to get under Chloe’s skin and wear down her resistance. There is strong chemistry between them, but Justin knows he just needs to be patient. And when that moment happens when she does let down her guard and trust that Justin won’t hurt or betray her, was such a beautifully captured moment. The way that Justin and Chloe learn each other forms those intimate bonds that go deeper than friendship, and also face some struggles along the way and come through on top with flying colors was such a journey to see. This book had me in TEARS though so just fair warning, Melissa Foster works her intensity in this story, especially in the latter half. I am so eager to get more of this family and all the sibling antics and the teasers we received for future books.
Overall I found A Little Bit Wicked to be a sassy, light yet edgy romance that worked its way into my heart and delivered in the range of emotions from crying buckets of tears to laughing hysterically. A TRUE GRITTY GEM TO MARVEL IN!...more
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
First Impressions The Broken One is the first of the connecting series to the infamous Corisi’s, and in this series “Corisi Billionaires” we get the primary focus of the romance but we also have an overreaching serial plot which was quite interesting and I am eager to see more of what happens in this mystery that is slowly unfolding. This story also has some fun tropes such as ” Opposites Attract, Grumpy Sunshine” and I also loved seeing a unique attraction and the angst which builds between our hero and heroine. They had such a unique connection to each other and I was so intrigued by it all. I didn’t know quite what to make of it all here, because I just wanted them to be together and happy but yeah in this book it just doesn’t work out that way. We are dealing with some serious issues of loss of a loved one and a child (so fair warning before reading this book) It had the charm of seeing children being portrayed in the story and I have come to truly love this world that this author has created with the Corisi Family and the deeper one explores the world you might need a roadmap (Ruth Cardello does have a family map HERE ) If you are like me and love this series and want to make sense of all the connections.
Brave doesn’t mean never being afraid. Brave is being stronger than what scares you.”
Summary Our story begins with our heroine, Heather, who is a single mother with her daughter who she treats as her own as her friend wasn’t able to care for her. Heather has built her own business and she and her daughter live quite comfortably. But then one day, her daughter loses her stuffed wolf on the road, and Heather is willing to do what it takes to find the lost wolf for her daughter and even puts out an ad for a reward in finding it. Then we get transferred over to our hero, who found the lost stuffed animal at a job site but is mourning the loss of his late fiancee and their unborn child. Sebastian has never been able to get over the grief that consumed him with the loss of the woman he loved. But when his family finds the ad for the lost stuffed animal, they push Sebastian out the door and onto Heather’s doorstep. Their first meeting while it starts with instant attraction, it ends with a door slam in Sebastian’s face. And Sebastian will need to learn to overcome his emotional struggles and learn to live again and adapt to adjusting to two new people in his life. He is drawn to Heather, who doesn’t stand for poor treatment and sets healthy boundaries, and while their relationship is rocky at times, they also find a beautiful healing love worth all the struggle to find something worth fighting for.
What I Loved What an amazing story that just won my heart so quickly. I couldn’t seem to get enough of this one here, there is something about Ruth Cardello’s writing that just speaks to me in such a beautiful way and works so well. She is so easy to get into and I love the way in which she writes billionaire romance, for some reason, in the way that she writes it, is just my catnip. I really appreciated what we get with this story. And even though angst romance isn’t always my mood, it so worked in this one. I think because we are seeing a character that is struggling with the grief of his girl that passed and I so connected with that (personal experience) And I just related so well with our heroine. I was hooked in the way that his family stands by him, and supports him no matter what. Seeing the romance built between Sebastian and Heather was so endearing in some moments. His connection to Heather and her daughter was adorable and the way he bonds with them and learns to deal with his grief and letting go of the past and embracing the present was quite satisfying. There were so many quiet intense moments that bond Sebastian and Heather and it’s these types of moments that just build so beautifully in this author’s writing.
Happiness doesn’t just happen. It’s a decision. Like anything else, it needs to be tended and protected. Negative people had no place in the new life I’d built for myself.
What I Struggled With Not much. The angst was a bit drawn out on this one, and felt too short and could have used more length to delve into the more challenging aspects
Overall View I found The Broken One to be a tender, poignant romance that feeds the romantic heart digs into the human aspects of loss, and transforms the reader with such delectable sexy goodness you won’t be able to put this one down.
First Impressions The Bookworm’s Guide To Faking It was such a fun time, and I breezed tThis review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance[image]
First Impressions The Bookworm’s Guide To Faking It was such a fun time, and I breezed through this audiobook here. I had so much fun discovering this romance and enjoying the wonderful voice of Emma Hart. This is a very short and quick read, but it is one that you will get a kick out of. If you want a true romantic comedy, then look no further than this author. I have become impressed with her books so far and see what she pens. This is a romance that features quite an array of tropes and themes here and it was interesting to see how they all worked together. Another delight is that the heroines in this series are all booklovers of romance, so there is a connection to them that is so relatable. I really felt like the elements that are blended in this book just worked so seamlessly and I can tell that its a talent of this author in how she crafts such charming stories.
Summary Holley Stuart is completely content working in her bookshop, and not having to worry about a man, that is until her high school sweetheart who broke her heart comes back to town. Holley and Sebastian were once best friends until at prom she saw him kissing her nemesis, and it broke her heart and she was never able to forgive or forget that fateful night. But now Sebastian is back and wants to reconcile, but Holley is determined to stand her ground against him. Sebastian has never forgotten Holley, despite his adventures throughout his career, she was his best friend and he is not a pansy and willing to allow Holley to let this misunderstanding widen the gap between them especially as he may be in town longterm due to his baseball injury. Through a set of circumstances, they end up posing a fake relationship, and as they are forced to be close together, the issues that separate them have to come to light and it will turn Holley’s life upside down. Because she realizes that she has never stopped loving him and what she feels him is more powerful than anything that she has ever felt. But will Holley have the courage to embrace what they have together?
What I Liked This was a story that I truly had so much fun with and I really loved the turn of events that led these two into a fake relationship. I just adore this trope, and I really found this setup so endearing. There are so many fun players involved in this story from the main characters all the way down to the grandparents of Holley and Sebastian, to even the sweater-dressed ducks. The humor in this book was so delightful, I couldn’t stop laughing at all the dry humor and this author definitely knows how to evoke such playful emotions that just left me with a smile all day. I will admit that I just wanted to immerse myself in this story and allow this author to captivate me even further. The romance that develops between these two was quite fun and I didn’t want to let go of this one here. I adored seeing Sebastian and Holley together, and their quirky bantering was utterly delightful. You can bet on many barrels of laughter to entertain you to no end.
What I Disliked As much as I was charmed by the story I will admit that there were some factors that kept this from a five-star read. The first is how LONG it took for this couple to actually get together. Like they didn’t have sex or even really have a good kiss until the latter half of the story, and even though it’s a short book, I really would have preferred some more built-up chemistry than what we received in this one here. But I also struggled a bit with Holley. I didn’t understand her reasons for pushing Sebastian away constantly throughout the book, it was a bit frustrating. Because even when the truth comes out, she still treats him like a stranger. I felt like she could have faced up to her feelings and fears sooner without Sebastian having to see past her fake persona and get to the facts of the feeling on the matter.
Overall Evaluation I found The Bookworm’s Guide To Faking It to be an essential story that will charm your heart in the most endearing of ways. It’s a romance of fun angst, playful banter, a reconciliation that will bring a tear to your heart and deliver a sense of contentment to the soul.
First Impressions Better Not Pout is a standalone by this author and this is also my verThis review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance[image]
First Impressions Better Not Pout is a standalone by this author and this is also my very first read from this author and I can guarantee that this won’t be the last time I will be reading this author. When I saw this one on the Hoopla catalog I just knew that I needed to grab it up, and I just love a sexy gay romance but a Christmas themed one with one of my favorite tropes “Grumpy Sunshine” I knew that this would be the ticket and it definitely was. This is a story that obviously features two complete opposites but also a story that showcases such a sweet endearing love story that will capture your attention from the very beginning. It has the quirky sunshine moments that make it so delectable that you won’t want to put this one down here. And it also has that holiday cheer that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
Summary Better Not Pout begins with our lonely Sergeant Major, who has spent 28 years in service to his country, and now he is being forced into retirement. The military life is all that he has ever known. And on the other side of the spectrum, we have a young man in his prime, who is packed with bundles of energy, love of others, and a smile for everyone. Nick is convinced by his boss to play the role of Santa Claus for the town when her husband gets sick. Nick is the most stoic of people, and not at all jolly, and who ends up happening to be his elf in the making…Teddy MacNalley. Teddy has everything going for him, he is all about the community and being involved with others. He is a social butterfly, his family is his heart but finding love and acceptance is a difficult one for him. He is determined to show this great grumpy of Santa Claus the true joy of living. Teddy knows that Nick will be putting up a fight, due to their age difference, but Teddy is one that doesn’t back down from a battle when it means the world to him, and there is something so lost about Nick, a sense that he needs love and affection more than anyone else he has ever met. But Nick isn’t going to make it easy for him. Nick hasn’t had the easiest of times and especially when it comes to matters of the heart, he hasn’t found someone that would stand by him. The chemistry between Nick and Teddy is powerful but Nick knows that Teddy deserves someone bursting with life and youth and not an old man like he feels he is. Fate, however, has different plans for Nick and Teddy. Nick ends up falling hard for this young man who charms his soul in the most unexpected ways. But will Nick be one warrior to fight for the love he has always ached for but never believed in until….now
What I Loved This is a story I never expected to enjoy as much as I did. Novella’s (or shorter books) aren’t always my cup of tea but I found that this one really worked out so well for me in ways I didn’t expect to find. One never knows how a new to you author will actually work out for you. And it’s always an interesting dynamic to see how it all plays out and I was charmed by this story. Now, I was very pleased that the narrator of choice. Sean Crisden definitely is a rare talent and I especially love his voice for this romance. He really portrayed the difference of personalities between Nick and Teddy. We have a quaint small-town feel to this story, where there is an impactful sense of community. We have two characters that have explosive chemistry but there are other elements in play that prevent them from embracing the best parts of their relationship that is being cultivated, even subconsciously. This is probably one of the best grumpy sunshine romances that I have ever had a chance to read and I am so grateful for this story and what it delivered.
The romance that is built between the two is quite an interesting one and has a few dynamics that offer its share of depths and intricate layers. I honestly rarely get to read a shorter book that delivers on all fronts with all the feels. There is a mix of tropes that seem to blend so well together here. We have grump sunshine, opposites attract, age gap, fling, and working together. I can guarantee that you won’t be able to get enough of seeing how this author places this story so well together. But also the sexual chemistry is EXPLOSIVE between these two and I adored every aspect of this. This author definitely knows how to write her steam, but fair warning, there are quite a few sex scenes for such a short book but at the same time the romance is on point. There is such a great balance here that blends just right with the mode that the author plays into this story. There is quite a resistance from our grump of a hero, and boy does he speak “Bah Humbug” to a T. He is the epitome of a scrooge, haha but this charming endearing elf just sparks life into Nick and despite how Nick tries to resist the charms of Teddy, he knows he is falling hard for him. The key is seeing him fight for Teddy and oh my ovaries haha These two just are simply sweet perfection together. And I can’t wait to explore more of this author’s work even more.
Another plus to the story is the setting. Many of you know how much I adore a small town but also add in the charms of Christmas time, seeing how these neighbors watch out for each other, and seeing the festive feels just endear you in this story just makes me so happy especially as I read this before Christmas and delivers in its unique feeling of warmth and sense of inner peace.
Overall Evaluation Better Not Pout is a beyond endearing, burn down the house, style of romance that delves into the sweet but also delivers in its depths of intimacy which leaves the reader only aching for more and will bring a tear in your eye in the most unexpected places. It’s a romance of sacrifice, Christmas charm, and a delectable bite.
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction The Making of a Highlander is the first book in th[image]
This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.
Introduction The Making of a Highlander is the first book in the "Midnight in Scotland" series which follows the McPherson family. In this book we follow the sister of the clan. She is a bit of a outcast in their village and then we get her match, who is a Earl under disguise of just being a plain Englishman. This story implements a vast arrays of elements that seem to seamlessly blend so well together. This was also my first Elisa Braden and I was so impressed with it. It was just overall such a delightful story that was enticing and enjoyable. I had a blast with it, and I see now why so many love this author's work, she definitely has a writing style that is endearing and something that we need more in more recently publishing historical's.
The Main Protagonists The Hero: John Huxley -Earl -Aristocrat -In hiding from English Society -Renovation
The Heroine: Annie McPherson -Young sister of the McPherson family -Caregiver -See's Ghosts/Imaginary Friend -Highland Lass -Bullied -Curvy and Plain -Cook/Baker
Summary John Huxley is just looking to escape the stresses of English society and find some peace after being hunted by scheming debutantes who just want his wealth and title. He wants to find something more in his life. He is now hiding out in the wilds of Scotland, and working on a land dispute and then meets the Scot's stepdaughter, Annie. Annie is known as "mad annie" because she has an imaginary friend who isn't so imaginary but everyone else believes that he isn't real but to her he has been her companion. When its revealed that its her destiny to marry a Lord, she seeks out John and they do a trade of sorts. She will give him Scottish lessons on being a Highlander, and in return he will train her in being a lady so that she can appeal to a titled lord. But soon the chemistry builds between them and they discover a match they least expected to find...
My Outlook I really had such a fun time with this and the audiobook is really superb so I do recommend listening to this one if you can. I enjoyed seeing how this romance developed and there was so much to this story that was appealing. The set up of the story was very intriguing but we also have the mix of banter, sass and sensuality that blends so well within the storyline. I wasn't sure if this author would live up to the hype, but she does entertain. I am really intrigued to see where she plans on taking this series and exploring her backlist. There were many elements to this one that just worked out so well for me. The first one is that I loved the sexy bantering. These two have such a great attraction towards each other but they also have a strong passion and the way that this author writes steam, is just perfection. Her writing style was unique and refreshing. Its not something you see much anymore in historical romance, and it was so easy to just become so comfortable with this one and just indulge in the romance. It definitely won't be the last time that I choose to pick this book up. Definitely intrigued to see more of this family because they really captured my heart within this one!
Overall View I found The Making of a Highlander to be a well done, perfectly portrayed, illustrious detailed romance that captured my heart and had me yearning for more!
The Bookworm's Guide To Dating was such a delight of a read and as this wasThis review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
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The Bookworm's Guide To Dating was such a delight of a read and as this was the first read that I have had from this author I was shocked that it had taken me so long to read her because I adored everything about this one. I have been looking to read some more ACTUAL Rom Com's and this one filled the ticket in every way. Especially since I have been reading such heavy stuff lately, I really needed something lighter that could help me balance out a bit in the ways that I really needed to have. As this was an audiobook I am not sure if it was just the talent of the narrators or if the book was that well written or a combination of both. Considering how much the community adores this author I have a feeling its the talent of the author and there was so many fun elements to this one that just gave me everything that I was looking for.
So The Bookworm's Guide To Dating starts off with our heroine, Kinsley, who along with her two best friends runs a bookstore and they are all obsessed with books and most especially a good romance. And I totally related with Kinsely (especially in the book throwing) and Kinsley has never found love but has wanted to find what she finds in her stories but it just has never happened for her. Except there is one, but its a step that she knows that he will never take. Josh Carter, is a man she has known most of her life, he is her brother's best friend, and he is the only man other than her brother that she doesn't react weirdly to. She doesn't know how to charm men but around Josh, she feels like she can be herself. But she is determined to find a man, and she finds Josh being the man to mentor her in her dating escapades and before long they both realize there is something building between them, something more powerful than a platonic friendship. But, they both know the cost if they cross that line. Josh is completely loyal to her brother, however, he is willing to cross the lines, to find out what he and Kinsley can cultivate but he is torn in feeling like he is betraying his best friend. He has been in love with Kinsley for years and will need to make a decision on fighting to keep her for good in his life....
I absolutely had a blast with this one and I will be honest....I ADORE this trope. This whole forbidden, best friend's sister that is untouchable is an aspect in a romance that I will always be gunning towards, and I absolutely couldn't seem to get enough of this one here. There were so many LAUGHS!! From the very beginning, I knew I was in for plenty of bursts of laughs and giggles and I definitely wasn't disappointed. I also need to give all the credit as well to the narrators because they just made this book come alive for me. I mean I can be picky about my five-star reads, but honestly, there wasn't anything I didn't fully love about this book. I just had to give it a five-star, because it satisfied all of my needs in every way. Does this book have some flaws? Of course, they do, every book does have its drawbacks, but they just weren't flaws that bothered me enough to lower my rating, haha I just had so much fun with this pair, and seeing them find their way to their HEA was such a blast.
“Well, sue me for trying to book-woo you.”“Book-woo me? What on Earth is book-wooing?”He moved the umbrella so we were both covered by it. “Book-wooing: the art of applying fictional romantic notions to real life to woo someone.”I blinked at him, fighting back a smile. “You made that up, didn’t you?”“Yeah. It’s cute, huh?”“Yes,” I muttered.
I was completely blown away by Emma Hart's writing though, there was something so addictive and utterly charming in her writing style. I can definitely see why so many people have raved about her books over the years and YES she has been on my wishlist for many years and I am not sure why it took me so long to pick her up, But I am so happy that I finally did and that it was such a success for me. The romance that we see here is quite interesting. Josh has been in love with Kinsley for quite a long time, and he hates seeing her date other guys. But the one who fights for the relationship....is NOT the hero, but our fun heroine, and I was all for it. I can't get enough when I see a heroine fight for her man and doesn't give up either. Because Josh can be so stubborn, and honestly, I am glad he was. I loved that he was so loyal to his best friend over a pact they made years previous. And seeing him torn over his loyalty just showed the content of his true character and this made him an even better hero in my book. Because you just know he would have the same commitment to Kinsley and he really does. The only drawback I think some people will struggle with is how long it takes for Kinsley and Josh to tell Kinsley's brother the truth. Even though I was a bit puzzled by it, circumstances develop that keep it from happening and it makes sense when you see it.
When you find the person whose perfect partner is you, and he gets to have you, he's going to be one lucky motherfucker
Overall I found "The Bookworm's Guide To Dating" to be such a delicious read and I couldn't get enough of this story or this pairing. Josh and Kinsley fit so perfectly together, their romance is delectably sweet, heart-achingly tender, and pure in every way that matters. Get ready for the laughs, for the adventure, for the charm that is perfectly balanced with relatable feels that you will feel to the depths. BRILLIANTLY MASTERED!
This is going to be a short review but I really wanted to talk about this book for a bit.
I grabbed up this one, because one I am wanting to look for This is going to be a short review but I really wanted to talk about this book for a bit.
I grabbed up this one, because one I am wanting to look for more alien romance to read and also I am wanting to read more indie authors and yeah this cover is interesting haha but I love a good fated mates but also my weakness is the whole "nanny" character type, with some fun little kiddies that drive the hero a bit crazy. Our hero, is king of his people, but when his brother and his wife are killed in a accident which leaves a set of triplets orphans, he takes in his brothers kids. But he has no clue how to handle them, so he then orders a human woman to take care of them. She does teach kids, so he feels like she would be perfect for the job never planning that this human female would be his fated mate....
It was quite an interesting story here and I found myself intrigued by the story and the series as a whole. Now it was only a three star, and let me explain why. I liked the story, I liked the characters, the plot was fun but it wasn't a story that just won me completely. I was frustrated with the first half of the story, I didn't care for the hero's arrogance and how he treats the heroine. I like my alpha males, but he just didn't have many redeemable qualities that I could truly enjoy. The story was likeable as a whole and a good palette cleanser. Just something fun to read in between the more serious books. ...more
Royally Bitten is the second book in the Blood Alliance series by Lexi FossThis review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
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Royally Bitten is the second book in the Blood Alliance series by Lexi Foss and it’s a indie urban fantasy with some paranormal aspects. I wouldn’t call this a paranormal romance series, its way more intense and darker but also the setting of this series is definitely dystopian and has a more Urban Fantasy feel to it. I was so impressed with the first book of the series “Chastely Bitten” and I knew that I needed to read the rest of the book and want to explore more of this series. I was first introduced into this series by Jenn @ The Book Refuge (A romance YouTube book channel) and she fell in love with this series and I have been making an effort to read more indie romance, mostly because lately I have tended to enjoy it way more, it just seems to be less restrictive than traditionally published works tend to be.
Royally Bitten is an intense and gravitating installment that features:
Kylan- Kylan is alpha male, King of his territory, member of the Vampire species, and one of the oldest of his kind. Takes care of his own people while giving off a brutal exterior to his enemies
Rae- a human female, entered training to be part of the twelve elite hoping to be chosen to be immortal, one of the trio of the friends part of the same training, brave but understanding of her place in society and hides her defiance beneath a submissive exterior.
Royal Bitten begins with our heroine, Rae, who has been brought before the council along side with the other twelve humans, she has spent years in training for this moment alongside with her two best friends. They have been talented in hiding their true affection for each other, and they have no idea what is ahead for them. All they know is that they must endeavor to win what is ahead or its death. But what Rae never expected is to be the one chosen by Kyylan. Kylan is rumored to be the most brutal of his kind, but even though she fears him, Kylan senses more in Rae than the average fear and submissiveness that he has seen in many other humans. He senses a bravery and resistance that appeals to his darker nature. So he takes her as his own. Kylan may be the most feared, but that is how he has learned to survive. Everyone must believe that he is the most brutal of his kind. He keeps those he trusts close to him and hidden from the world so they don’t become discovered because they are his vulnerability. As Kyland and Rae explore these feelings that they have for each other, they explore the sensuality that is building between them and slowly forming a bond of trust and affection. Rae doesn’t really know Kylan though. But as they are learning together, they are also searching for those trying to undermine Kylan and his territory. But will the traitors be closer to him than he realizes? And will he be able to protect Rae or lose her forever?
This was the predator. The animal. The male who wanted to devour me. And all I could do was accept him.
I honestly fell in love with this book, and man these books are so addicting. I don’t know why it took me so long to read this one. I read the first book back in February (So yes it happened during my blog hiatus) so I will get to putting the review of that one of my blog soon there. I really love this series so much. Now it does have some paranormal aspects but due to the setting, I would definitely put these books more into the Urban Fantasy genre. They are very romance focused though, and each one ends with a HEA guaranteed. I really loved this author’s style, I found it truly superb in every way. I couldn’t put this book down last night, it was such a quick read, and this pairing is so captivating.
My lips tingled. Actually tingled. I resisted the urge to touch them. Raelyn made me feel… young. Alive. Oddly at peace.
It definitely has its aspects of darker elements. I mean it is DARK as in the heroine in this book is literally a slave to the hero. This is their culture but its not that cut and dry. The hero and other characters in the series are fighting against the laws that dictate how humans are treated so the overall series plot is so intriguing. The romance between Kylan and Rae was so interesting. It was such a compelling relationship, and I didn’t mind the power dynamics in this one at all. (I rarely do in romance) but they are present so just be aware of that in this installment. I am really intrigued to see where this author goes from here on, because I find this world so darkly gravitating and I am so addicted to her writing. It is so easy to get into and I just want to explore it more especially around this time of year. They are just perfect.
A warrior spirit I long to tame for my own use, a body I desire in my bed more than I probably should, and a mind filled with an intelligence I feared was lost among the human race centuries ago.
Overall I found Royally Bitten to be an astounding work that offered more depths into this series, it’s a romance of angsty tension, darkly elements that are addictive, a rich sensuality to satisfy your craving, and characters that you want to fight for…..its a guaranteed romance to steal your heart in every way!
Getting School was such a fun entertaining read and I have no clue why I have been putting this one and highly recommend that you listen to this one iGetting School was such a fun entertaining read and I have no clue why I have been putting this one and highly recommend that you listen to this one is audio, its so SUPERB. I really was drawn into this one so quickly, and we do have some fun elements and a bit of a "Student Teacher love " trope but not quite. The heroine is more of a teacher assistant but she does grade the hero's paper so there is that haha I really got hooked on this author's writing style and just wanted to see more of this couple. My only complaint is that it was too short and too abrupt of an ending. I would have liked more happy couple page time, as it had a more HFN ending instead of a HEA ending. The romance was sweet and endearing and the fun bantering between these two was delectable. I am definitely going to be picking up more of this authors work because now I see why she is so well loved and popular. Her writing style has a level of charm that is unique and I need MORE! haha ...more
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