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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Great story telling with plenty of details. This has lots of adventure with an engaging storyline. Full of suspense, fast paced. Once you get started hard to put down. Recommend to all readers.Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story telling with plenty of details. This has lots of adventure with an engaging storyline. Full of suspense, fast paced. Once you get started hard to put down. Recommend to all readers.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Whoa! This series is phenomenal! Strong characters and well written. Full of action, suspense, twisted and heart wrenching. This story is very fast paced and captivating. Once you start you can’t stop until it’s finished. Recommend this series and author to all.Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Whoa! This series is phenomenal! Strong characters and well written. Full of action, suspense, twisted and heart wrenching. This story is very fast paced and captivating. Once you start you can’t stop until it’s finished. Recommend this series and author to all.

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Between Darkness and Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Great story well written seamless story with each book. Very engaging, will pull you in and keeps you wanting more. Strong characters, very emotional read. Recommend to all readers.Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story well written seamless story with each book. Very engaging, will pull you in and keeps you wanting more. Strong characters, very emotional read. Recommend to all readers.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Captivating! Very engaging, great story line full of emotions. just enough romance to keep it interested. This was my first book from this author and looking forward to reading more. Recommend to all readers.Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Captivating! Very engaging, great story line full of emotions. just enough romance to keep it interested. This was my first book from this author and looking forward to reading more. Recommend to all readers.

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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi – Review by Crystal Brehant

A Teacher's HeartA Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute story. It is great for kids who may be starting school. A kid who may be worried or nervous about starting school. It is a great example of how much love teachers give to all of their students and how much they care.

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Jenni Bishop

Twisted OathTwisted Oath by A. S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW! Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts is another amazing story and the brand-new book in the Bound By Blood series. I have not read a book of hers that I have not loved and have not given 5 stars to. If I could give this book more I would. This is definitely my favourite so far.
The story of Salvatore and Serafina is immersive and enthralling and is told in multiple POV making the characters come to life. A.S. has the knack to make the characters feel real as she puts them through their paces. They are really well written and fully developed.
A.S. quickly draws you into the world in which she weaves and what a twisted ride it is. There isn’t a dull moment in this captivating story that flows smoothly with great pace. With just the right amount of tension and energy in the story makes it even better.
With revenge and justice, vengeance and dreams, solace and power, hunger and passion, anger and jealousy, love and so much more you will not want to put this book down. It will also stay with you long after you have finished it.
There are no spoilers here because this goodness needs to be discovered all on its own.
I love a good dark, raw and gritty mafia romance and A.S. has delivered. Happy reading.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the War of Destiny series. You should read the previous books in the series before starting this one.

Yet again the author has been able to create wonderful characters and scenes to draw you into their world easily. Again, the characters are met with danger and twists/turns as they make their journey.

Throughout the series I have really loved Julia and really felt for her as she never seems to catch a break, no matter how much she deserves it. The author portrays her character so well I can feel her emotions as she tries to prove herself. Her strength is admirable as she continues, and I love her all the more for it as she perseveres.

It’s a shame there isn’t another book into the series for me to jump straight into, but I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from this author now that I have discovered them.

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Dawn Mitchell

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 2nd book in the series but can be read as a standalone. Noah an Zara have a past that they are both running from an Zara avoids Noah like the plague. She makes it known to everyone how much she dislikes him. But in the end will their feelings overcome their past? I liked Noah an Zara story better than the first book.

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Nicole

Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Helpful Hudson highlights the importance of self-care, a concept often neglected or overlooked. It’s truly a wonderful message to impart at an early age. With his constant helpfulness and selflessness, the character of Hudson eventually realizes the toll it takes on his well-being. By the end of each day, he is completely exhausted and drained, leaving him with no energy to engage in any activities the following day. However, through his journey, Hudson learns a valuable lesson: he must prioritize taking care of himself to care for others effectively. The book effectively conveys the idea that one cannot pour from an empty cup, emphasizing the significance of maintaining one’s physical and mental well-being. Helpful Hudson serves as an engaging and enlightening read, reminding children and adults alike about the importance of self-care and its impact on our ability to help others.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jamie Truex

Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 5th book in the series. I absolutely recommend you start at the beginning and give this whole series a shot. Plenty of vampires, action, love, guilt, learning. You won’t be disappointed! I’m glad there is room for another book because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters. Like the rest of the books, I had a very hard time putting this one down.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series has been a complete surprise to me and knocked me off my feet. Each book had me absolutely absorbed throughout the entire story, and Soul Redeemed is no different. The author clearly didn’t have to stretch to make it to five books as I didn’t feel any lulls at any point. I am invested in the characters, but specifically Julia since she has come from such a harrowing past. You will feel every emotion as your own and you’ll be at the edge of your seat through every twist and turn. I definitely recommend starting from book one in the series because it is a complex world, and you’ll kick yourself for missing out on this author’s amazing writing style. The entire series flows so flawlessly, it comes with the highest recommendation!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jamie Truex

Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in a very good series. This one is from the point of view of Lane instead of Julia. Lane is a lone vampire who feeds off of humans and vampires as well. Other vampires think he is insane and Valentino has ordered him killed on sight. He get surprised by Julia one night and realizes not all vampires are the same. He meets and helps her group. I’m not sure what to think about his “relationship” with Kali. Either way, it was a great addition to the series!

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Dawn Mitchell

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First book of the series and I want to read more! Celia and Kyles chemistry is off the charts electrifying. They havent seen each other in years so when they do they realize their love has never gave up. But can their love make it through the secret Celia has kept from Kyle all these? This book is fun, easy going, steamy an a quick read.

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone

Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4)Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone

Oh man ohhhh man, I LOVE this series, I cannot get enough!!! I could rant and rave about this author and what she has done with this series and it still wouldn’t describe it.

First off, holy hell that was steamy, I thought after reading the first three books, no one could top my love for Riley and Cole, their chemistry, love story, the angsty back and forth… but man was I wrong. The chemistry between Damon and Sky is quite frankly, panty melting, this book had me in a literal chokehold. I love the direction the author went with the continuation of the series, there is still a lot of unsolved trauma seeping in for Damon from the previous books. Instead of all the drama revolving around Damon and his father, a-lot of it centered around sky and some issues with bulling from a best friend recently turned enemy. Sprinkle in a dash of family drama from sky to keep you on your feet and you have the makings of a wonderfully told story.
I cannot lie, as much as I feel like the author did them all justice I would have enjoyed more cameos from Riley and Cole or even a bit more insight as far as Phoenix and Shane go but also, I’m full of anticipation for the next couple of novels to see what lies in store for the two cousins.

I would, however, not recommend attempting to read any of the books of this series out of order, you will be thoroughly lost and sad when you realize you’ve spoiled these story’s for yourself, this author loves to leave these books as cliffhangers. But I HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who likes enemy’s to lovers, forced proximity, alpha male, young adult type books. Grab the first one and get ready for a wild ride, because this series is fantastic.

Brutal Nights, Hidden Valley Elite Series, Isla Vaughn, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Jessica Stone, June 2023

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t know how the author does it, but each book in this series keeps getting better and better! Between Darkness & Light has definitely hit my heart the hardest so far. You can feel Julia’s pain and torment throughout the story, and it is just completely and utterly heartbreaking. She copes with these dark emotions in the only way she can think of at the time, and even that tears me up inside. The author pulls you into this world and makes it feel like you are experiencing the story. I was so invested in these characters and need to know how everything is going to end up!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in the War of Destiny series. You should read the previous books before starting this one to get a greater sense of the characters, events and setting of the book.

The author’s writing flows well and creates vivid imagery and great characters as usual. This story is a little different from the previous ones but it’s not bad, it’s executed well. This time we get to experience Lane’s adventure as he attempts to make his way to his homeland safely.

It was great to be able to follow Lane’s journey while facing familiar foes and getting a different perspective. Although it may be different, it’s not any less gripping or dangerous.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t often run into a series that actually gets better with each book, but I’ve found that in the War of Destiny series. I was taken by surprise with how quickly I became completely absorbed into this world. Julia is finally feeling comfortable with her life, so of course the author shakes us out of that dream with completely unpredictable scenes and incredibly detailed world building. I caught myself staring at the book in disbelief as she encountered some major betrayal and drama. Do yourself a favor and just pick this series up. Start with the first book or you’ll be totally lost. I can’t wait to see what’s next!!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Felicia Bates

House of ArsceneauxHouse of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I secretly love a good vampire romance so I couldn’t wait to crack into this novel. This book was longer than what I tend to reach for and for me, it was slow to start. Right off the bat I love that the author named each chapter, something I’ve always enjoyed but rarely see anymore. The attention to detail and imagery really transported me to a different time and place and once I got caught up in the storyline I truly loved the escape. I look forward to exploring more from this author.

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the War of Destiny series, the previous books should be read before this one.

Once again, the author has created great characters and scenery that you feel you’ve stepped into their world. This book is darker that the other two, exploring some darker elements, and the emotions behind it can be felt so clearly as you read.

More danger arises, as well as the consequences of the last book make for an extremely emotional and perilous experience for Julia as she seeks to take steps to make things right. I really felt more Julia in this book, more so than the others as you can feel the guilt and exclusion so clearly. She remains strong as she makes her journey and I admire the strength she displays.

So glad I was able to jump straight into the next book as I currently cannot get enough of this world.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW. I absolutely loved this book! It’s a magnificent start to the War of Destiny series, and I am definitely putting this author on my watch list. Their writing style is addictive, and I couldn’t get enough. Be sure to check the trigger warnings that the author so thoughtfully provided so you aren’t caught by surprise. Julia has been through so much in her life and is faced with a decision that she knows will change everything. You’ll never be able to guess what happens next as this emotional rollercoaster takes you for a ride! I highly recommend picking this up if you enjoy a good vampire fantasy read.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the War of Destiny series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Just as with the first book, the world build and character creation were done very well and you can almost feel yourself step into the book. You will need to read the first book to understand what is happening.

This book jumps ahead a little (70 years) and new trouble arises, danger around every corner. This will keep you as gripped as the first book as you want to find out what happens next and how they will escape the current danger.

While the first book is the better of the two, this is still a great read, I don’t regret it.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was much better than I imagined it would be. I absolutely loved the plot, it was historical whilst also being paranormal – 2 of my favourite genres rolled into one!

The characters were well-written, especially Julia. It starts so young with Julia being 15 when we begin to experience her struggles and grief with her as the story progresses. But we also get to see her strength and the start of her development.

The story is unique, and the plot is put together well. The author’s written was easy to follow and I moved straight onto the next book as I couldn’t wait to continue Julia’s story.

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood #1)Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great introduction into the Bound by Blood series, I’m certainly hooked!

To start with, the author has a way of writing that flows so smoothly and captures the depth of emotion the characters have, so that you feel it as your own. They paint a vivid picture that you feel you could easily step into and live the ‘adventure’ alongside the characters.

The characters were written incredibly well. Salvatore and Serafina both have pasts and how they became who they are and how they respond to things is very well reflected in the book. I was rooting for them from start to finish, they captivated me, and I grew emotionally attached – definite book hangover because of them!

The twists and turns had me guessing (and not always correctly which I loved), I couldn’t put this book down. It had everything I wanted, strong characters, suspense, secrets, romance and more! I’m sad this book is over but I’m excited for the next!

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Falling Again (Buckeye Falls Book 3) by Libby Kay – Review by Rebecca Hill

Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls NovelFalling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the third book in a series. It absolutely can be read as a stand alone. This book focuses on additional characters in Buckeye Falls. I have read the other books and loved them. This one was enjoyable but focused a lot more on the sexual tension and interaction between Anthony and Natalie. Anthony and Natalie have almost a fairytale marriage. They couldn’t possibly be struggling – or could they? I did really enjoy the realness of their struggles. They have busy lives with their jobs and their kids. They haven’t had time for each other, and it is wearing on them and their marriage. Ultimately this story is about them finding their way back to each other and rekindling their marriage. I love this world and the characters and will continue to read about them. While maybe more steamy than the first two books, it was still great!

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Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3)Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grand Slam is book 3 in the series and this series just keeps getting better and better. I love these characters and want to be friends with them. Haha
This book is focused on Heath and his love interest.
Back when they did the bachelor auction he met a thorn in his side names Grace who ran the animal shelters they were raising money for. She seemed very bossy and tested Heath like a child. They both seemed to
Dislike eachother a great deal. Why can’t either of them get the other out of their mind?
They see eachother again at the hospital when Hannah has her baby. Grace and Heath end up sleeping at Hannah’s house for the night until Grace leaves first thing in the morning trying to put space between her and Heath before something could happen.
To bad for Grace, Heath doesn’t give up
Easily. This was such a great read and cannot wait to see what else this author has to share with us.

review by @xchellex

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Shannen Kern

Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a delightfully refreshing children’s book that encourages readers to consider the importance of self-care. I feel like it’s such an amazing topic to start teaching kids at a young age because it’s typically not brought into the picture until you’re older and very stressed out. Helping Hudson is a magnificent jumpstart to the conversation and there’s a good chance that adults would benefit from reading this as well. I love that the author shows helping others is great, but helping yourself must remain in your focus as well. This was cute and my kiddos absolutely loved it. I’m grateful for this author and can’t wait to pick up more from them!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author struck gold with this series. The first few books were great and add this prequel in and now I’m dying for the next book.
This is mainly about Aspen ( the new girl to town ) and Phoenix. She doesn’t know him or his reputation and he doesn’t know her as they go to different schools. They literally run into eachother one day and neither can get the other out of their mind.
A few days later they see eachother again and this time they get to know eachother a bit. When their time is over He walks away without looking back.
They both are going to Thane so they will see eachother around campus. What will happen when Aspen lets him in on what she finds out. Aside from the chemistry between these two. Phoenix just might be a genius for what he manages to pull off with Shane. Cannot wait to see what happens there. Amazing addition to a great series and impatiently waiting for Cruel Hate!

review by @xchellex

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A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2) by Tami Lund – Review by Heidi Schoolman

A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2)A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Rock Star series and is 247 pages in length. This story follows Maria, a wealthy divorcee, and Oz, the hot guitarist. Maria heads out to be with her sister. But her sister is in out of state planning a wedding. Oz happens to be watching over the house and allows Maria to stay there. Maria has to be at the wedding and Oz kindly offers to go with her. From here, things start to get complicated!

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Twisted Eros (Modern Mythica Book 1) by Aria Skylar – Review by Shannen Kern

Twisted Eros (Modern Mythica Book 1)Twisted Eros by Aria Skylar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was drawn in by the cover and by the time I read the synopsis I was sold. Twisted Eros is the first book in the Modern Mythica series, and it is a steamy start! I love that it is a bit darker with twists and turns. I didn’t want to put this down at all, so I read it in a single day! Kay is such a strong female character and seems to have everything she could want in her professional life. While we all know that vacations are absolutely necessary, her sisters book an extra special month-long vacation for her. Will this vacation with a smoking hot stranger show her a side of her she never knew existed, or will she just end up longing to get back to her successful career? I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for the second book! I highly recommend giving this book a read especially if you love spicy romances.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Ladies of the Links #2 by Haley Rhoades – Review by Krystal Gregory

Ladies of the Links #2Ladies of the Links #2 by Haley Rhoades
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author was new to me, but I am sure glad I picked up this book. It is a very sweet, second chance romance story that will pull at your heartstrings and bring tears to your eyes. It has drama, deep friendships, highly charged emotions and some seriously whitty humor.
Lovers of Romance, YA, Adult Romance and sports romance will adore this book! A super fun 4 out of 5 stars for me!

Review by @kgregory

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