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International School #3
French Kissed
On the surface, she appears to have it all.
If only the facade matched reality…
With one year left at the International School in London, Fleur Marceaux is struggling to graduate, her love life is a mess and she can’t stop thinking about Max, her ex-boyfriend’s best friend. But all that pales in comparison to the blackmailer determined to destroy her.
After watching Fleur break his friend’s heart, Max Tucker knows to stay away from trouble, despite the crush he’s had on her since freshman year. There’s a social hierarchy at the International School, and Max is outside the velvet ropes. But when they’re partnered on a project, Max learns there’s more to Fleur than meets the eye, and she just might be worth the wild ride.
The more time they spend together, the further Max falls. And when a kiss awakens a passion Fleur never imagined, she’s unable to resist Max, who she had thought was all wrong for her but who might be the only thing that’s right. But will he stand by her when her secrets are revealed?
Don’t miss the dramatic final installment of the International School series!
International School
Book 1: I See London
Book 2: London Falling
Book 3: French Kissed
If only the facade matched reality…
With one year left at the International School in London, Fleur Marceaux is struggling to graduate, her love life is a mess and she can’t stop thinking about Max, her ex-boyfriend’s best friend. But all that pales in comparison to the blackmailer determined to destroy her.
After watching Fleur break his friend’s heart, Max Tucker knows to stay away from trouble, despite the crush he’s had on her since freshman year. There’s a social hierarchy at the International School, and Max is outside the velvet ropes. But when they’re partnered on a project, Max learns there’s more to Fleur than meets the eye, and she just might be worth the wild ride.
The more time they spend together, the further Max falls. And when a kiss awakens a passion Fleur never imagined, she’s unable to resist Max, who she had thought was all wrong for her but who might be the only thing that’s right. But will he stand by her when her secrets are revealed?
Don’t miss the dramatic final installment of the International School series!
International School
Book 1: I See London
Book 2: London Falling
Book 3: French Kissed
304 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2014
65 people are currently reading
5016 people want to read
About the author
Chanel Cleeton
23 books7,268 followersChanel Cleeton is the Cuban-American New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of many novels including Reese's Book Club pick Next Year in Havana. Originally from Florida, Chanel studied in London where she earned degrees in International Relations and Global Politics. In law school, Chanel discovered her passion writing novels and embarked on a new adventure following her lifelong love of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 19, 2015
5 Words: Heaven, passion, love, blackmail, culture.
The best thing about the International School series is this weird mesh of different cultures. It's a situation you don't come across often, even in books. And all of the misunderstandings and miscommunication and the sharing and learning and love... Man, it's perfect.
Which would explain the mass of pink highlights throughout my copy.
I adored Max's infatuation with Fleur. If I tell you about it, it will just sound creepy, so I deleted that whole paragraph of my review. You just gotta go read the book to know what I'm on about, it's the only way you'll understand.
Other guys might have fantasized about porn stars or lingerie models. I fantasized about Fleur Marceaux.
I love Fleur, and when I found out she was getting a book of her own I was so excited - she was just so freaking intriguing in the first two books, despite being a supporting character.
I loved the little hints we got about Maggie and Samir, but I would have loved to find out more about Mya too - she's always been this peripheral not-really-there character that seems to make up the threesome when it's convenient.
This was a sizzling, steamy romance, and I loved it. How passionate and desperate it was yet how they still tried to take it slow... Ish.
I was sad when I got to the end... Because this really is the end :(
The best thing about the International School series is this weird mesh of different cultures. It's a situation you don't come across often, even in books. And all of the misunderstandings and miscommunication and the sharing and learning and love... Man, it's perfect.
Which would explain the mass of pink highlights throughout my copy.
I adored Max's infatuation with Fleur. If I tell you about it, it will just sound creepy, so I deleted that whole paragraph of my review. You just gotta go read the book to know what I'm on about, it's the only way you'll understand.
Other guys might have fantasized about porn stars or lingerie models. I fantasized about Fleur Marceaux.
I love Fleur, and when I found out she was getting a book of her own I was so excited - she was just so freaking intriguing in the first two books, despite being a supporting character.
I loved the little hints we got about Maggie and Samir, but I would have loved to find out more about Mya too - she's always been this peripheral not-really-there character that seems to make up the threesome when it's convenient.
This was a sizzling, steamy romance, and I loved it. How passionate and desperate it was yet how they still tried to take it slow... Ish.
I was sad when I got to the end... Because this really is the end :(
September 24, 2015
2.5 Stars
I really enjoyed the first 2 books of this series but unfortunately I don’t find this last installment of the series as good as the previous books.
Why do I dislike this book?
1. The main characters
The heroine in this book –Fleur is my least favorite in this series.
She is so fucked up! I don’t like her attitude and behavior. She’s the kind of girl like you see in Mean Girls movie. She’s all about outward appearance, selfish, mean and a total bitch! She only cares about parties and fashion. I really really HATE, I mean REALLY HATE that kind of people!
And not to mention that she’s a “walking soap opera”. Her life is full of drama. It’s like wherever she goes there’s drama
Apparently she can do mean things to innocent people (like judging the way they dress and shit like that) but can’t stand up and fight back when someone threatening and blackmailing her! HA!
Max –the hero, is so flat. He’s surely so smart, hot with muscles and all, and sweet. But I can’t feel those butterflies or squirm when I read whatever sweet and romantic things he does to Fleur. That means, nothing interesting about him.
2. The story
I find the love story between the main characters are too juvenile. In the first 2 books, Max showed that he really hated Fleur and so did Fleur. But in this book finally Max admits that he actually loves her since the first day he saw her. I mean, really? Max was the one who called her “Ice Queen” in the first place! It’s like love story between primary school students. I remembered myself often said “I hate that boy because he’s annoying” when I was in primary school, but actually deep inside me, I liked him very much. See? I don’t see the difference with Fleur and Max’s case.
That’s why when Max said “I love you” to Fleur, and all the beautiful promises shit like: I love you until I die, you’re so perfect, etc etc… I don’t feel the butterflies.
And maybe because I already knew from the beginning that Fleur is so fucked-up! haha
The story is also so predictable. The pattern is similar with Maggie and Samir’s story. So I find it boring.
3. The French thing
Maybe it’s so personal, but honestly I don’t find French people are hot. I also don’t find their accent is sexy. Sorry but whenever I hear French people speak English, I laugh because their accent is really weird in my ears.
And since I don’t understand French at all, the French words in this book really annoys me. Because I need to go to Google Translate back and forth just to understand what the fuck does that mean.
I’m sorry this is just not for me.
I really enjoyed the first 2 books of this series but unfortunately I don’t find this last installment of the series as good as the previous books.
Why do I dislike this book?
1. The main characters
The heroine in this book –Fleur is my least favorite in this series.
She is so fucked up! I don’t like her attitude and behavior. She’s the kind of girl like you see in Mean Girls movie. She’s all about outward appearance, selfish, mean and a total bitch! She only cares about parties and fashion. I really really HATE, I mean REALLY HATE that kind of people!
And not to mention that she’s a “walking soap opera”. Her life is full of drama. It’s like wherever she goes there’s drama
Apparently she can do mean things to innocent people (like judging the way they dress and shit like that) but can’t stand up and fight back when someone threatening and blackmailing her! HA!
Max –the hero, is so flat. He’s surely so smart, hot with muscles and all, and sweet. But I can’t feel those butterflies or squirm when I read whatever sweet and romantic things he does to Fleur. That means, nothing interesting about him.
2. The story
I find the love story between the main characters are too juvenile. In the first 2 books, Max showed that he really hated Fleur and so did Fleur. But in this book finally Max admits that he actually loves her since the first day he saw her. I mean, really? Max was the one who called her “Ice Queen” in the first place! It’s like love story between primary school students. I remembered myself often said “I hate that boy because he’s annoying” when I was in primary school, but actually deep inside me, I liked him very much. See? I don’t see the difference with Fleur and Max’s case.
That’s why when Max said “I love you” to Fleur, and all the beautiful promises shit like: I love you until I die, you’re so perfect, etc etc… I don’t feel the butterflies.
And maybe because I already knew from the beginning that Fleur is so fucked-up! haha
The story is also so predictable. The pattern is similar with Maggie and Samir’s story. So I find it boring.
3. The French thing
Maybe it’s so personal, but honestly I don’t find French people are hot. I also don’t find their accent is sexy. Sorry but whenever I hear French people speak English, I laugh because their accent is really weird in my ears.
And since I don’t understand French at all, the French words in this book really annoys me. Because I need to go to Google Translate back and forth just to understand what the fuck does that mean.
I’m sorry this is just not for me.
December 14, 2014
La reseña fue originalmente publicada en SMW Book Blog
Para más reseñas visita SMW Book Blog
En mis reseñas para I See London y London Falling, comenté lo mucho que gusta el personaje de Fleur & lo mucho que me gustaría leer su historia. Así que, como pueden imaginarse, me emocioné demasiado cuando Chanel Cleeton anunció que a finales de año French Kissed, la historia de Fleur & Max, sería publicada. Ahora, después de haber leído French Kissed, puedo decirles que me ha gustado incluso mucho más :D
Cuando comencé a leer la serie (en I See London), Fleur aparenta ser la típica chica antagonista y la chica que todas las chicas odian y la que todos los chicos quieren tener de novia. Sin embargo, mientras avanzaba la historia y más conocía a Fleur y al darme cuenta por lo que ha pasado, su personaje terminó siendo uno de mis favoritos de la serie (incluso más que Maggie). En French Kissed, su personaje me ha gustado incluso más puesto que ahora conocemos su historia a fondo y no por los ojos de Maggie. Además, su personaje ha evolucionado demasiado desde el comienzo de la serie. ¡Me encanta! Tengo un girl-crush con Fleur ;)
El romance entre Max (♥♥♥) y ella me fascinó. Me encantó verlos enamorarse, conocerse y, sobretodo, convertirse en amigos. En su relación, no hay demasiado drama ni malentendidos. French Kissed se enfoca más en el lado romántico de su relación y el lazo de unión que ambos crean entre ellos. Además, la química y todo el juego previo (o como diría Max “las bases”) entre ambos fue espectacular.
En fin, quedé más que satisfecha con la historia de Fleur (¡la espera valió la pena!). Me fascinó haber conocido más sobre ella y que su historia haya sido contada. ¡¡¡¡Y el epílogo!!!! ¡LO AMÉ! Incluso hay una pequeña posibilidad de que me haya hecho derramar una lágrima o dos :') Sin duda, French Kissed resultó ser un libro demasiado dulce y simple. Pero, ¡hey!, a veces dulce y simple es más que suficiente, ¿no? French Kissed es el escape perfecto en medio de tantos libros New Adult llenos de melodrama, pasados oscuros y corazones rotos. Si están en busca de un libro ligero, corto, dulce y romántico, entonces ¡les recomiendo French Kissed! Hay que tomar en cuenta que no es necesario leer los dos libros anteriores en la serie para leer French Kissed ;)
Para más reseñas visita SMW Book Blog
December 12, 2014
****Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World :)****
A satisfying conclusion to an amazing series...
Having read and enjoyed all three of the books in the International School series, my favorite book out of the three will have to be French Kissed. I enjoyed reading the book from Fleur's P.O.V, and to see how she got her happy ending. In I See London (Book 1) and London Falling (Book 2), we are introduced to Fleur, but we never get to see what happens in her life, she is after all one of the secondary characters in the first two books. So I was glad to hear that Chanel Cleeton was going to write a book in her point-of-view!
Fleur Marceaux has it all, she has the looks, friends, influence, and the money to get just about anything she wants. Her reputation is important to her at the International School in London, but when a series of emails threaten to expose her past, she is determine to find out who is behind them before it's too late. Now coming closer to graduation, Fleur has to face questions revolving her future. She is uncertain of what she truly wants to do once she graduates, but that's not the only thing that she has on her mind. Lately she has been thinking about her ex-boyfriend's best friend, Max Tucker, the irresistible American who seems to be everywhere. The minute she discovers that Max is going to be in her class, and that they are going to be partners in a project, she doesn't like that at all. There is an undeniable attraction that she feels towards him that she can't control, the more time they spend together, the more she opens up to him, and she starts to realize that they might just be meant to be together after all.
Max Tucker has always had a crush on Fleur, even before she got together with his friend, he felt an attraction towards her that for some reason didn't go away. Everyone knows that there is some type of social hierarchy at the International School, and students who are not on top of the social latter aren't always welcomed, and Fleur just happens to be right at the top that makes it hard for anyone like Max to even get a chance to talk to her. Little did he know that his luck was about to change when he gets partnered up with her for a business project. It is clear at first that Fleur is not too pleased with the arrangement, but Max quickly learns that she is so much more than what she lets others see and he is willing to stick around if she haves him.
There were a lot of things that I really liked about this book, one of them being the plot line. I liked the character development in both of the characters, and how the story flow nicely as it came to an end. Max's personality balanced out Fleur's own personality in the book, and their chemistry is instant that it made it enjoyable to read. I absolutely loved the ending, it was sweet and full of hope for the characters that it makes me sad to see it end. But I'm also excited to read upcoming works by Chanel Cleeton in the future. Overall, I would highly recommend the series to anyone. Even though French Kissed is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone, since the book talks about the secondary characters that were in book 1 and 2. I would still suggest reading the first two books, just to get a good feel of the characters, but it's not necessary. :)
***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
A satisfying conclusion to an amazing series...
Having read and enjoyed all three of the books in the International School series, my favorite book out of the three will have to be French Kissed. I enjoyed reading the book from Fleur's P.O.V, and to see how she got her happy ending. In I See London (Book 1) and London Falling (Book 2), we are introduced to Fleur, but we never get to see what happens in her life, she is after all one of the secondary characters in the first two books. So I was glad to hear that Chanel Cleeton was going to write a book in her point-of-view!
Fleur Marceaux has it all, she has the looks, friends, influence, and the money to get just about anything she wants. Her reputation is important to her at the International School in London, but when a series of emails threaten to expose her past, she is determine to find out who is behind them before it's too late. Now coming closer to graduation, Fleur has to face questions revolving her future. She is uncertain of what she truly wants to do once she graduates, but that's not the only thing that she has on her mind. Lately she has been thinking about her ex-boyfriend's best friend, Max Tucker, the irresistible American who seems to be everywhere. The minute she discovers that Max is going to be in her class, and that they are going to be partners in a project, she doesn't like that at all. There is an undeniable attraction that she feels towards him that she can't control, the more time they spend together, the more she opens up to him, and she starts to realize that they might just be meant to be together after all.
Max Tucker has always had a crush on Fleur, even before she got together with his friend, he felt an attraction towards her that for some reason didn't go away. Everyone knows that there is some type of social hierarchy at the International School, and students who are not on top of the social latter aren't always welcomed, and Fleur just happens to be right at the top that makes it hard for anyone like Max to even get a chance to talk to her. Little did he know that his luck was about to change when he gets partnered up with her for a business project. It is clear at first that Fleur is not too pleased with the arrangement, but Max quickly learns that she is so much more than what she lets others see and he is willing to stick around if she haves him.
There were a lot of things that I really liked about this book, one of them being the plot line. I liked the character development in both of the characters, and how the story flow nicely as it came to an end. Max's personality balanced out Fleur's own personality in the book, and their chemistry is instant that it made it enjoyable to read. I absolutely loved the ending, it was sweet and full of hope for the characters that it makes me sad to see it end. But I'm also excited to read upcoming works by Chanel Cleeton in the future. Overall, I would highly recommend the series to anyone. Even though French Kissed is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone, since the book talks about the secondary characters that were in book 1 and 2. I would still suggest reading the first two books, just to get a good feel of the characters, but it's not necessary. :)
***ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review***
July 10, 2024
Book Review: French Kissed by Chanel Cleeton
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💖Multi-POV
💖Realistic College Romance
💖Rich Protagonist
💖Enemies To Lovers (Not A Slow Burn)
💖A Girl’s Girl
This is the third book in the London series of college/university romances and in this book we finally get to see the most troubled of the friends sort out her love life. She’s been to hell and back with the loss of a baby, terrible breakup, depression/overdose, and more in the past 2 books and now it is her time to shine. Fleur is back at the international school to finish her senior year and she finds a new romance with her ex’s best friend. All the while, she still has a blackmailer after her. Will she find happiness with her new lover? Will she catch the blackmailer?
What I Loved: I finally got to see the real Fleur in this book and get a look at everything from her perspective and find out how she feels compared to the first two books in the series (which were not from her perspective). Everyone thinks she’s the “Ice Queen”, when in reality she’s just a girl who feels everything. There is such a great college romance that it brought me back to my college days. I felt myself truly immersed in the story and wishing Fleur would have a great happy ending because she deserved it, but I guess you will have to read it to find out. The multiple perspectives in this book gave me a better experience of the relationship as a whole letting me know what Max was thinking (opposite to Fleur) and also helped the story in general because of the serious issues his girl was facing. This book can be a stand-alone from how it was written unless you want all of the FMC’s past details, it’s not 100% necessary but recommended. Anyone who loves Elena Armas should read this!
Vibes:
After by Anna Todd, One Day (Netflix)
Special thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Electronic Advanced Reader Copy (E-ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest, and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
💖Multi-POV
💖Realistic College Romance
💖Rich Protagonist
💖Enemies To Lovers (Not A Slow Burn)
💖A Girl’s Girl
This is the third book in the London series of college/university romances and in this book we finally get to see the most troubled of the friends sort out her love life. She’s been to hell and back with the loss of a baby, terrible breakup, depression/overdose, and more in the past 2 books and now it is her time to shine. Fleur is back at the international school to finish her senior year and she finds a new romance with her ex’s best friend. All the while, she still has a blackmailer after her. Will she find happiness with her new lover? Will she catch the blackmailer?
What I Loved: I finally got to see the real Fleur in this book and get a look at everything from her perspective and find out how she feels compared to the first two books in the series (which were not from her perspective). Everyone thinks she’s the “Ice Queen”, when in reality she’s just a girl who feels everything. There is such a great college romance that it brought me back to my college days. I felt myself truly immersed in the story and wishing Fleur would have a great happy ending because she deserved it, but I guess you will have to read it to find out. The multiple perspectives in this book gave me a better experience of the relationship as a whole letting me know what Max was thinking (opposite to Fleur) and also helped the story in general because of the serious issues his girl was facing. This book can be a stand-alone from how it was written unless you want all of the FMC’s past details, it’s not 100% necessary but recommended. Anyone who loves Elena Armas should read this!
Vibes:
After by Anna Todd, One Day (Netflix)
Special thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Electronic Advanced Reader Copy (E-ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest, and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
August 24, 2024
Fleur a young girl in her last year of college seems to have it all but she is actually struggling inside . You learn of her past and her struggles in this book. As she tries to better herself she is faced with a blackmailer. She is assigned a school project with a guy , who doesn’t like her, they must figure out how to come to terms with their actual feelings. This book has romance and a mystery .
October 15, 2014
Have you ever read a story that had you so captivated, you re-read it right after completing it the first time? For me, that story was I See London and my introduction to the intensity that is Maggie & Samir. Not only are they the hottest couple in the literary planet, but they're each well-drawn, unique characters that could hold my interest even if they weren't together. Combined, they are a big fireball of heat. 5 stars!
After I completed (and greedily re-read) I See London, I was granted a sneak peak at the London Falling arc, the sequel and end to the International School books. I couldn't wait to see how the intense love story between Maggie & Samir ended. I finished their sequel in no time and was thoroughly pleased with the result. 5 more stars! It's SUPER rare that I like a sequel at all, let alone rate it with 5 stars. I usually find that they're so off-base in the reprise of the character's personalities they ruin the first installment for me. I tend to not read them and leave my favorite characters behind in that happy after-glow (of reading) one gets when they loved a book.
During what was supposed to be the final book in the series, a strange energy emerged between two of the secondary characters: Fleur and Max. He called her "The Ice Queen" and she hated him for it. A lot of fans felt like there was a story there and one we wanted to read. The author was only too obliging and created a third (and seriously final) book to the International School series, French Kissed starring Fleur and Max.
When I began the book, I wasn't sure if I was going to love it. In between the sparse dialogue between the MCs was a ton of exposition and inner-thought. If what was written truly happened in real life, it would've taken 15 minutes to spit out 6 sentences of dialogue, there was so much introspective thinking written in. That was a bit off-putting and I greatly hoped the rest of the book didn't read like that. Fortunately for me, it didn't!
Fleur and Max are pushed together as partners for a project in one of their classes that will make up 80% of their grade. Fleur needs the class to graduate and Max needs good grades for his future in banking. It's clear that this is the main antagonistic curve ball in the story - two people that "hate" each other forced to get along to pass the class (even though we know they really like each other). The second is the mysterious blackmailer who plagued Fleur in the previous book. Will her secrets threaten the relationship she eventually has with Max?
SPOILER ALERT!
Although I love Chanel's writing and enjoyed the plot line, I wanted their push/pull to last a bit longer than it did. I guess I wanted a bit of Maggie and Samir, which probably isn't fair as they're different people. Regardless, after one kiss, they pretty much become a couple. I wanted a bit more of a struggle before that happened. I also felt like the reader knew who the blackmailer was (it was pretty obvious in the prior book) and although the things the blackmailer did to Fleur were embarrassing, they weren't anything (I think) that would ruin a relationship between Max and Fleur. I didn't find Max's initial reaction plausible and like his character at all. I felt like the author was trying to create more tension in the story but used a tactic or a reaction that didn't really fit in line with her characters.
Those two critiques aside, I loved the book and devoured it within a day. I loved that we found out what happened to Maggie & Samir as well as Max & Fleur down the road. A very satisfying ending to the series. It also makes me want to re-read London Falling. I think I just might!
After I completed (and greedily re-read) I See London, I was granted a sneak peak at the London Falling arc, the sequel and end to the International School books. I couldn't wait to see how the intense love story between Maggie & Samir ended. I finished their sequel in no time and was thoroughly pleased with the result. 5 more stars! It's SUPER rare that I like a sequel at all, let alone rate it with 5 stars. I usually find that they're so off-base in the reprise of the character's personalities they ruin the first installment for me. I tend to not read them and leave my favorite characters behind in that happy after-glow (of reading) one gets when they loved a book.
During what was supposed to be the final book in the series, a strange energy emerged between two of the secondary characters: Fleur and Max. He called her "The Ice Queen" and she hated him for it. A lot of fans felt like there was a story there and one we wanted to read. The author was only too obliging and created a third (and seriously final) book to the International School series, French Kissed starring Fleur and Max.
When I began the book, I wasn't sure if I was going to love it. In between the sparse dialogue between the MCs was a ton of exposition and inner-thought. If what was written truly happened in real life, it would've taken 15 minutes to spit out 6 sentences of dialogue, there was so much introspective thinking written in. That was a bit off-putting and I greatly hoped the rest of the book didn't read like that. Fortunately for me, it didn't!
Fleur and Max are pushed together as partners for a project in one of their classes that will make up 80% of their grade. Fleur needs the class to graduate and Max needs good grades for his future in banking. It's clear that this is the main antagonistic curve ball in the story - two people that "hate" each other forced to get along to pass the class (even though we know they really like each other). The second is the mysterious blackmailer who plagued Fleur in the previous book. Will her secrets threaten the relationship she eventually has with Max?
SPOILER ALERT!
Although I love Chanel's writing and enjoyed the plot line, I wanted their push/pull to last a bit longer than it did. I guess I wanted a bit of Maggie and Samir, which probably isn't fair as they're different people. Regardless, after one kiss, they pretty much become a couple. I wanted a bit more of a struggle before that happened. I also felt like the reader knew who the blackmailer was (it was pretty obvious in the prior book) and although the things the blackmailer did to Fleur were embarrassing, they weren't anything (I think) that would ruin a relationship between Max and Fleur. I didn't find Max's initial reaction plausible and like his character at all. I felt like the author was trying to create more tension in the story but used a tactic or a reaction that didn't really fit in line with her characters.
Those two critiques aside, I loved the book and devoured it within a day. I loved that we found out what happened to Maggie & Samir as well as Max & Fleur down the road. A very satisfying ending to the series. It also makes me want to re-read London Falling. I think I just might!
February 13, 2015
I received this book for free from the author or publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Review:
The International School series is my guilty pleasure. I wanted Cleeton to write Fleur’s story SO badly. Fleur was actually one of my favorite characters in this series. She’s portrayed as shallow and vain but underneath her “Ice Queen” exterior I knew there was so much more.
I was nervous that this story wouldn’t live up to my expectations. I didn’t want a book dominated with conflict and unnecessary drama. I wanted the blackmail and scandals surrounding Fleur to be resolved and I wanted her to get some kind of closure. And if I’m to be honest, I wanted her to get a happy ending.
I know Fleur would rub a lot of people the wrong way. She’s obsessed with fashion and her vanity rivals that of Blair Waldorf’s. However, much like her GG counterpart, she’s vulnerable and decent underneath the layers of silk and sass. We were given hints of Fleur’s true character throughout books 1 and 2 but in French Kissed we get to see what makes her tick, what she’s truly passionate about, but most of all we get to see her heart.
It was clear in book 2 that Fleur and Max really do not get along. They spend most of their time together picking each other apart. Despite this rivalry, it was very clear from their interactions that there was a spark between them. I was glad that they were able to get over their disdain for one another and get to know each other.
I was silent for a beat. “Are you hate breaking up with me?” Her mouth spread into the wide smile I’d seen her give her friends, but had never been lucky enough to have flashed my way.
Max and Fleur’s relationship slowly develops quickly; it goes from gentle touches to full-blown passionate kisses. Their romance is sweet and pure and I loved every minute of it. I loved the way Max was able to roll with Fleur’s moods and I loved that he didn’t keep her on the pedestal everyone else did. Max is sweet and grounding to Fleur and I appreciated that. I always love to see the nice guys flourish.
“You have amazing instincts. You’re creative and artistic. You’re walking art.”
As for the plot, I really enjoyed the romantic gestures and tender moments. It veered away from the heavier drama I was used to from books 1 and 2 but that was okay. I felt that this was the perfect ending to such a fun series. I liked that the conflicts Fleur had been dealing with were resolved and didn’t completely overshadow her relationship with Max.
French Kissed is a true feel-good romance and I enjoyed the gentle and passionate relationship between Fleur and Max. I will truly miss the characters in this story and was so glad I got to see more of Samir, Maggie, Mya, Michael, and George before I had to say goodbye.
See this and other reviews at Teacups and Bookends Blog
Review:
The International School series is my guilty pleasure. I wanted Cleeton to write Fleur’s story SO badly. Fleur was actually one of my favorite characters in this series. She’s portrayed as shallow and vain but underneath her “Ice Queen” exterior I knew there was so much more.
I was nervous that this story wouldn’t live up to my expectations. I didn’t want a book dominated with conflict and unnecessary drama. I wanted the blackmail and scandals surrounding Fleur to be resolved and I wanted her to get some kind of closure. And if I’m to be honest, I wanted her to get a happy ending.
I know Fleur would rub a lot of people the wrong way. She’s obsessed with fashion and her vanity rivals that of Blair Waldorf’s. However, much like her GG counterpart, she’s vulnerable and decent underneath the layers of silk and sass. We were given hints of Fleur’s true character throughout books 1 and 2 but in French Kissed we get to see what makes her tick, what she’s truly passionate about, but most of all we get to see her heart.
It was clear in book 2 that Fleur and Max really do not get along. They spend most of their time together picking each other apart. Despite this rivalry, it was very clear from their interactions that there was a spark between them. I was glad that they were able to get over their disdain for one another and get to know each other.
I was silent for a beat. “Are you hate breaking up with me?” Her mouth spread into the wide smile I’d seen her give her friends, but had never been lucky enough to have flashed my way.
Max and Fleur’s relationship slowly develops quickly; it goes from gentle touches to full-blown passionate kisses. Their romance is sweet and pure and I loved every minute of it. I loved the way Max was able to roll with Fleur’s moods and I loved that he didn’t keep her on the pedestal everyone else did. Max is sweet and grounding to Fleur and I appreciated that. I always love to see the nice guys flourish.
“You have amazing instincts. You’re creative and artistic. You’re walking art.”
As for the plot, I really enjoyed the romantic gestures and tender moments. It veered away from the heavier drama I was used to from books 1 and 2 but that was okay. I felt that this was the perfect ending to such a fun series. I liked that the conflicts Fleur had been dealing with were resolved and didn’t completely overshadow her relationship with Max.
French Kissed is a true feel-good romance and I enjoyed the gentle and passionate relationship between Fleur and Max. I will truly miss the characters in this story and was so glad I got to see more of Samir, Maggie, Mya, Michael, and George before I had to say goodbye.
See this and other reviews at Teacups and Bookends Blog
November 25, 2015
*I received this title in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my thoughts and opinions*
Let me start off by saying that this book was not for me.
Firstly, I hated the characters. They were frustrating, and their downright ridiculous sexual tension/lust from page one, prevented anything other than sexual tension/lust from happening. I actually wanted something to happen, thank you. (Reading about hot, muscular backs is just not as mind-blowing as I thought it would be.)
And how lucky was I of reading from alternating POV's! It alternated at least five times in every chapter (such bonus). It prevented me from focusing, and it was just so annoying. I'd like to personally ask Chanel to make her mind up for what POV she is writing from.
I felt sad for Fleur, so much so that I wanted to bash her in the head. Better yet, just put her out of her own damn misery. She can't take responsibility for her actions and blames everything on everyone who is not herself (all hail the spoiled, goody queen). I was born and raised in a household that did not condone irresponsibility and this, to me, is Fleur going out to parties, skipping/failing classes, and being stupid. She had the power to ask for help and she didn't use it, so who was she to blame that behavior on others?
Someone who fueled the raging fire also, was Max. Max was such a flat character; all he was there for was to make for a pretty face and rockin bod. A love interest that girls would love, and would never resist, someone that would only say right things and never have a damn flaw. YAWN. I think I've seen this book 100 other times. Either way his dreams and aspirations were something that I wish would have been extended on.
And the greatest thing of all, let me just leave right here, is the reason why Fleur hates Max, something so terrible and awful that no human on earth should have to experience: a nickname.
Good Day.
Let me start off by saying that this book was not for me.
Firstly, I hated the characters. They were frustrating, and their downright ridiculous sexual tension/lust from page one, prevented anything other than sexual tension/lust from happening. I actually wanted something to happen, thank you. (Reading about hot, muscular backs is just not as mind-blowing as I thought it would be.)
And how lucky was I of reading from alternating POV's! It alternated at least five times in every chapter (such bonus). It prevented me from focusing, and it was just so annoying. I'd like to personally ask Chanel to make her mind up for what POV she is writing from.
I felt sad for Fleur, so much so that I wanted to bash her in the head. Better yet, just put her out of her own damn misery. She can't take responsibility for her actions and blames everything on everyone who is not herself (all hail the spoiled, goody queen). I was born and raised in a household that did not condone irresponsibility and this, to me, is Fleur going out to parties, skipping/failing classes, and being stupid. She had the power to ask for help and she didn't use it, so who was she to blame that behavior on others?
Someone who fueled the raging fire also, was Max. Max was such a flat character; all he was there for was to make for a pretty face and rockin bod. A love interest that girls would love, and would never resist, someone that would only say right things and never have a damn flaw. YAWN. I think I've seen this book 100 other times. Either way his dreams and aspirations were something that I wish would have been extended on.
And the greatest thing of all, let me just leave right here, is the reason why Fleur hates Max, something so terrible and awful that no human on earth should have to experience: a nickname.
Good Day.
December 11, 2014
4.5 Stars
Original Review @ Nomi’s Paranormal Palace
I loved the first two books in the International School series, and when I finished London Falling, I remember tweeting Chanel Cleeton and asking her whether Fleur was getting a book. I could see the connection between her and Max and I wanted to see it develop further. I am so glad it was a yes!!
Fleur appears to be all tough and bitchy, but as I learnt more about her throughout the series, she had secrets and tried to hide behind the walls that she carefully erected. Really she is a beautiful girl, who has had everything given to her from her absent parents. Her closest and most treasured family is Samir and I can see why they are as close as they are.
Max is trying to find his own path in life away from his family. He is smart, sexy and American, and has bigger plans than working for the family business. I soon saw that he kind of crushed on Fleur for a while and really thought she was an air-head. But spending more time with her opened his eyes to the amazing girl she is!
I loved seeing the relationship between Fleur and Max develop. They took things slow, which was sweet, because Fleur really needed to overcome her demons. Max really got to know Fleur and realised what kind of girl she was and wanted to treat her well. They had amazing chemistry and grew better as a couple.
Chanel Cleeton has created characters that I adore and put them all together in a series that I have loved! It was the perfect way to complete the series; giving me glimpses of all the characters I have met on the journey. I’m sad to see this series come to an end, but I’m excited to see what Chanel has for us next!!
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
Original Review @ Nomi’s Paranormal Palace
I loved the first two books in the International School series, and when I finished London Falling, I remember tweeting Chanel Cleeton and asking her whether Fleur was getting a book. I could see the connection between her and Max and I wanted to see it develop further. I am so glad it was a yes!!
Fleur appears to be all tough and bitchy, but as I learnt more about her throughout the series, she had secrets and tried to hide behind the walls that she carefully erected. Really she is a beautiful girl, who has had everything given to her from her absent parents. Her closest and most treasured family is Samir and I can see why they are as close as they are.
Max is trying to find his own path in life away from his family. He is smart, sexy and American, and has bigger plans than working for the family business. I soon saw that he kind of crushed on Fleur for a while and really thought she was an air-head. But spending more time with her opened his eyes to the amazing girl she is!
I loved seeing the relationship between Fleur and Max develop. They took things slow, which was sweet, because Fleur really needed to overcome her demons. Max really got to know Fleur and realised what kind of girl she was and wanted to treat her well. They had amazing chemistry and grew better as a couple.
Chanel Cleeton has created characters that I adore and put them all together in a series that I have loved! It was the perfect way to complete the series; giving me glimpses of all the characters I have met on the journey. I’m sad to see this series come to an end, but I’m excited to see what Chanel has for us next!!
Complimentary copy provided by the Author in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2014
My favorite of the International School series! Max and Fleur had such great chemistry. I'm a sucker for a good enemies to lovers book, and this one fit the bill. Max is sweet, down to earth and really balances out Fleur. Such a good story with a sizzling romance. I highly recommend to anyone who loves New Adult and contemporary romances.
December 3, 2014
SO. GOOD! Loved this trilogy. Chanel is quickly becoming one of my favorite NA writers.
October 14, 2024
Fleur i Max.. ta dwójka, delikatnie mówiąc, nie pała do siebie sympatią, więc gdy w trakcie zajęć na uczelni zostali połączeni w parę do pewnego finansowego projektu, niewyobrażali sobie, by mogło z tego powstać coś dobrego. Czas pokazał jak bardzo się pomylili. Ona Francuzka piękna, bogata, wzbudzająca pożądanie u nie jednego mężczyzny. On Amerykanin z kredytem studenckim, liczący się z wydanym funtem. Każde kolejne spotkanie wzbudza w tej dwójce coraz więcej emocji i nieoczekiwanych uczuć. I gdy wszystko zaczyna iść w dobrym kierunku, wtedy przeszłość Fleur daje o sobie znać... Co się stanie, gdy tajemnice kobiety wypłyną na powierzchnię? Czy oboje poradzą sobie z ich ciężarem?
"French kissed" to książka z gatunku youn adult. Przyznam, że rzadko miałam okazję takie czytać. Tym bardziej chętnie po tę pozycję sięgnęłam. Nie zawiodłam się. Z jednej strony jest to wciągający romans, w którym temat przewodni stanowi relacja Fleur i Maxa, z drugiej strony budząca wiele emocji historia dziewczyny, która na pozór zaopatrzona przez los we wszystko o czym można marzyć, ukrywa się za murem urody, blichtru i lajtowego podejścia do życia. Gdy pozna się jej przeszłość, drogę jaką idzie, wyzwala w człowieku sympatię i momentami, aż chciałoby się ją przytulić, pocieszyć. Polubiłam tę dwójkę, kibicowałam im, choć były chwile gdy mnie trochę wkurzali. Ale dla mnie fabuła, która we mnie żyje, to największy plus dla książki.
"French kissed" to książka z gatunku youn adult. Przyznam, że rzadko miałam okazję takie czytać. Tym bardziej chętnie po tę pozycję sięgnęłam. Nie zawiodłam się. Z jednej strony jest to wciągający romans, w którym temat przewodni stanowi relacja Fleur i Maxa, z drugiej strony budząca wiele emocji historia dziewczyny, która na pozór zaopatrzona przez los we wszystko o czym można marzyć, ukrywa się za murem urody, blichtru i lajtowego podejścia do życia. Gdy pozna się jej przeszłość, drogę jaką idzie, wyzwala w człowieku sympatię i momentami, aż chciałoby się ją przytulić, pocieszyć. Polubiłam tę dwójkę, kibicowałam im, choć były chwile gdy mnie trochę wkurzali. Ale dla mnie fabuła, która we mnie żyje, to największy plus dla książki.
dnf
March 18, 2024DNF at 48%
I hardly ever read romances about college students anymore but I really enjoyed the first book in this series, which must have explained my purchase several years ago. (Book 2, the conclusion for the couple in the first book, didn’t work as well for me.) I can’t remember what I thought of Fleur previously but she’s too “poor little rich party girl” for me here. She’s also got a heapload of trauma in her backstory, on top of having a blackmailer, which is just too much. Max seems nice enough, if bland. If two people who hate each other (while secretly being attracted) can’t hold my attention, then you know it’s not a good fit.
Characters: Fleur is a 22 year old white French college senior. Max is a white American college senior and business major. This is set in London.
Content notes: past image-based sexual abuse (blackmailer leaked a nude photo of FMC), blackmail, past drug overdose, past miscarriage (freshman year), past infidelity (FMC’s ex cheated on her and she had sex with him while he’s still with the girl he left her for), student loan debt, past parental divorce (secondary character), alcohol, gender essentialist language, ableist language
*Love it or Leighve it* (aka cleaning out my Nook)
Purchased: 2017
I hardly ever read romances about college students anymore but I really enjoyed the first book in this series, which must have explained my purchase several years ago. (Book 2, the conclusion for the couple in the first book, didn’t work as well for me.) I can’t remember what I thought of Fleur previously but she’s too “poor little rich party girl” for me here. She’s also got a heapload of trauma in her backstory, on top of having a blackmailer, which is just too much. Max seems nice enough, if bland. If two people who hate each other (while secretly being attracted) can’t hold my attention, then you know it’s not a good fit.
Characters: Fleur is a 22 year old white French college senior. Max is a white American college senior and business major. This is set in London.
Content notes: past image-based sexual abuse (blackmailer leaked a nude photo of FMC), blackmail, past drug overdose, past miscarriage (freshman year), past infidelity (FMC’s ex cheated on her and she had sex with him while he’s still with the girl he left her for), student loan debt, past parental divorce (secondary character), alcohol, gender essentialist language, ableist language
*Love it or Leighve it* (aka cleaning out my Nook)
Purchased: 2017
September 19, 2024
Full disclosure for the following review... I haven't read either of the previous two books. I picked this one up after I missed my train and had two hours to kill and no book on me. That being said...
The premise sounded promising but didn't deliver for me. Enemies where? They didn't even remotely hate each other? They just didn't talk to each other and he said some stuff behind her back defending his friend when she broke said friend's heart? Okay... And then they were all of a sudden sucking face in love? That was quick.
Also, I really wanted to like Fleur but omg I could not some times. I understood her trauma and how she handled it but at the same time she was insufferable. How can someone be sympathetic and also insufferable? Idk but she managed it. I was not the target audience for this book.
The reason this is a 3 star instead of 2 is because I enjoyed Chanel Cleeton's writing style. It was easy to get into and digest. It was an interesting choice to switch pov's in the middle of a chapter and once I got used to it, it didn't take away from the flow as much as I thought it would. I just wish the character work would have been better.
The premise sounded promising but didn't deliver for me. Enemies where? They didn't even remotely hate each other? They just didn't talk to each other and he said some stuff behind her back defending his friend when she broke said friend's heart? Okay... And then they were all of a sudden sucking face in love? That was quick.
Also, I really wanted to like Fleur but omg I could not some times. I understood her trauma and how she handled it but at the same time she was insufferable. How can someone be sympathetic and also insufferable? Idk but she managed it. I was not the target audience for this book.
The reason this is a 3 star instead of 2 is because I enjoyed Chanel Cleeton's writing style. It was easy to get into and digest. It was an interesting choice to switch pov's in the middle of a chapter and once I got used to it, it didn't take away from the flow as much as I thought it would. I just wish the character work would have been better.
February 10, 2025
Chanel Cleeton's French Kissed creates a vivid image of characters plus their Paris college environs. Each protagonist has her/his own hang-ups, but each are well-drawn characters who make a reader want to see what's happening next.
Fleur is painted as a dilettante who isn't committed to her studies. Max tries to resist his attraction to Fleur, but he's shown as her opposite. And they definitely attract. Cleeton reveals in layers how Fleur is worthy of a reader's caring. She's been tormented by a blackmailer, which keeps her from solidly committing to school and relationships.
Max is portrayed as a true romantic. He has deep feelings for Fleur, and supports her in her need to graduate and set her life straight. Also a loyal friend, Max has concerns about how his relationshop with Fleur might hurt his friend, since she dated his friend previously and ended the relationship abruptly.
The story made me cheer on the characters' reaching a happy ending. I rated the book 4 out of 5 stars because the author reminds us too often that Fleur is considered trouble, which feels forced. Fleur does deserve her happy ending with Max.
Fleur is painted as a dilettante who isn't committed to her studies. Max tries to resist his attraction to Fleur, but he's shown as her opposite. And they definitely attract. Cleeton reveals in layers how Fleur is worthy of a reader's caring. She's been tormented by a blackmailer, which keeps her from solidly committing to school and relationships.
Max is portrayed as a true romantic. He has deep feelings for Fleur, and supports her in her need to graduate and set her life straight. Also a loyal friend, Max has concerns about how his relationshop with Fleur might hurt his friend, since she dated his friend previously and ended the relationship abruptly.
The story made me cheer on the characters' reaching a happy ending. I rated the book 4 out of 5 stars because the author reminds us too often that Fleur is considered trouble, which feels forced. Fleur does deserve her happy ending with Max.
December 27, 2022
Fleur Marceaux is in her last year at the International School in London. Her best friends are all moving forward and making plans while she feels absolutely lost - barely passing her classes and no idea what to do after graduation. Fleur was so confident her future included her boyfriend Costa, but that was before she lost the baby and he dumped her for another girl. Fleur never imagined getting her life back on track would include Max, the American. Not her type by a long shot but when she finally gives him a chance their chemistry is electrifying. Together they figure out the value that lies beneath a true friendship. This was #3 in an older series by Chanel Cleeton - when she wrote a completely different genre of young romance. I remembered liking the first two much more but it’s always nice to wrap up a series. Cute easy paced story. If you haven’t read it yet, definitely start at the beginning.
August 12, 2024
3.5 stars rounded down.
I enjoyed this third book of Chanel Cleeton's International School series. This works as a standalone - there is no need to have read the first two books though some events are referenced.
Fleur and Max work here - I think becasue we get both their POVs. Fleur's group of friends is more realized as they were MCs/prominent in the first two books. Max is a sweetheart and I think fits as a cinnamon roll here. Fleur has more bristles and has trauma in her background, but is a lot of fun.
What didn't work as well for me was the blackmail plot and the relationship conflict that had to be overcome in the last act. They went together so the blackmail not working led to the conflict being meh.
You do see the great writer Chnel Cleeton becomes. Recommeded for those who really enjoy new adult romance.
I enjoyed this third book of Chanel Cleeton's International School series. This works as a standalone - there is no need to have read the first two books though some events are referenced.
Fleur and Max work here - I think becasue we get both their POVs. Fleur's group of friends is more realized as they were MCs/prominent in the first two books. Max is a sweetheart and I think fits as a cinnamon roll here. Fleur has more bristles and has trauma in her background, but is a lot of fun.
What didn't work as well for me was the blackmail plot and the relationship conflict that had to be overcome in the last act. They went together so the blackmail not working led to the conflict being meh.
You do see the great writer Chnel Cleeton becomes. Recommeded for those who really enjoy new adult romance.
September 14, 2024
I have really loved Chanel Cleeton's books and thought this one would be good. But I could not get into the story at all and it just fell flat with me. It just all felt so juvenile.
This was a DNF for me about 40% into it. Perhaps another time it will read better for me as I'm sure this was more about me than about the author.
I was given this by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
This was a DNF for me about 40% into it. Perhaps another time it will read better for me as I'm sure this was more about me than about the author.
I was given this by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 10, 2024
I have to admit I was disappointed at first when I learned that Fleur was the main character of this story, the third in the triology. I was expecting to learn the rest of Maggie and Samir’s love story. Well, that expectation did come true along with the bonus of following the love story of Fleur, Maggie’s best friend, and Max as they maneuver through the final year in college, ex-partner drama, and personal trauma as they fall head over heels for each other.
June 28, 2024
📖📖 Book Review 📖📖 While this is the third book in the series that takes place at the International School in London, I had no problem jumping right in to devour this novel! Here’s the thing, I always have the travel bug and this book only added to my never ending desire to be abroad. Absolutely delightfully whimsical and romantic, French Kissed is a completely bingeable summer read!
July 1, 2024
I am not the right audience for this book. I requested it due to seeing Chanel Cleeton’s name, but did not know it was last in a series and also a rerelease. I was not able to get into it. DNF.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you very much to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced reader’s copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 8, 2024
~~~ I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review ~~~
French Kissed is hot•hot•HOT! This is a great final for the International School Series (though I wish more were to come!). This book follows the story of Fleur and Max- who each come from very different pasts. The chemistry between the two is dynamite! And the European settings of this book are just stunning. I love Chantel Cleeton and I love this series! Highly recommend. Great series to grab for the beach or while traveling!
French Kissed is hot•hot•HOT! This is a great final for the International School Series (though I wish more were to come!). This book follows the story of Fleur and Max- who each come from very different pasts. The chemistry between the two is dynamite! And the European settings of this book are just stunning. I love Chantel Cleeton and I love this series! Highly recommend. Great series to grab for the beach or while traveling!
August 15, 2024
French Kissed follows Fleur and Max and omg am I obsessed with Max. The way he uses his words is incredible. They fall fast and I couldn’t get enough. Since this was the third book in the series, it really tied everything together. I binged it in one day, I couldn’t get enough. It was funny and it was emotional. This was a great way to end the series.
August 27, 2024
Having read the other books in the International School series by Cleeton, I was eager to read Fleur's story. It did not disappoint! It was a fast-paced, quick read that did justice to the story that had been built in the other two books about Fleur's past. I highly recommend for fans of the show Maxton Hall!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 28, 2024
I thought this was going to be my least favorite book of the series since the main characters shifted to Fleur & Max (after being Maggie & Samir for the first 2), but it ended up being my favorite one! I’m glad I gave it a chance. Great enemies to lovers and slow burn romance, abd then once the steam starts it is 🔥!
August 10, 2025
2.5 stars rounded up to 3. Took me almost an entire year to finish apparently, even though the first 2 books I flew through in less than a week each. I wanted to love this book, but it just didn’t hit like the first 2. I appreciated the epilogue, but it was also just a very fast ending with not much resolution from 75% of the book to the end.
August 15, 2018
J'ai 1000x fois préféré cette histoire à celle de S&M.
Fleur était plus humaine dans ce livre et son couple avec Max was kind off realist.
I am really glad that I'd given this book is chance, I would've missed a great history.
The epilogue was soooooooo cute ♡♡♡♡
Fleur était plus humaine dans ce livre et son couple avec Max was kind off realist.
I am really glad that I'd given this book is chance, I would've missed a great history.
The epilogue was soooooooo cute ♡♡♡♡
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