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Elves & Legends #2
Marian and the Elf
Marian is supposed to un-alive the elf king. Robin is supposed to abduct her. Trusting each other would mean betraying their people. Trusting their people might be worse.Marian may look like a princess, but she is also a trained assassin who would prefer peace with the elves over war.
Robin is a powerful elf pirate who enjoys looting the human king's ships... until a certain human makes him question everything he thought he knew.
Is it too late to change the minds of kings and rulers? Will the elf and human kingdoms be able to avoid war? And what kind of betrayal will do the least damage?
Marian and the Elf is a fast-paced, thoroughly re-imagined Robin Hood story with sweet romance, elves, magic, pirates, a princess assassin, and more! Sail the high seas, discover secret caves, and watch out for sword fights and knives!
The heart-pounding, slow-burn, no-spice romance is perfect for readers who like books by authors like K.M. Shea and Tara Grayce. Action, suspense, high stakes, and fantasy romance weave together in this brand new fairy tale for adult and young adult audiences!
This is a standalone fantasy fairytale with a Happily Ever After ending. The Elves and Legends series is best read in order because this book has spoilers for Ella and the Elf, but this book can be enjoyed by itself with no prior reading.
Robin is a powerful elf pirate who enjoys looting the human king's ships... until a certain human makes him question everything he thought he knew.
Is it too late to change the minds of kings and rulers? Will the elf and human kingdoms be able to avoid war? And what kind of betrayal will do the least damage?
Marian and the Elf is a fast-paced, thoroughly re-imagined Robin Hood story with sweet romance, elves, magic, pirates, a princess assassin, and more! Sail the high seas, discover secret caves, and watch out for sword fights and knives!
The heart-pounding, slow-burn, no-spice romance is perfect for readers who like books by authors like K.M. Shea and Tara Grayce. Action, suspense, high stakes, and fantasy romance weave together in this brand new fairy tale for adult and young adult audiences!
This is a standalone fantasy fairytale with a Happily Ever After ending. The Elves and Legends series is best read in order because this book has spoilers for Ella and the Elf, but this book can be enjoyed by itself with no prior reading.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2024
34 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Anabelle Raven
16 books62 followersI write heart-pounding, fantasy adventure books with sweet romance (no spice)!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 5, 2025
3 stars ⭐️ Clean Fiction - Fantasy/Fairytale Retelling
This was pretty good, I just didn’t like it as much as the first book in the series. Marian and Robin felt very similar to Ella and Altair, just with different traumas. But the way they spoke and acted reminded me a lot of the prior couple. I’ll admit to not liking Robin a ton because he was very…poetic? sappy? romantic? all of the above? Towards his emotions to Marian. I found myself rolling my eyes a few times because of it.
Because of that, this one was cheesier and had quicker romance/attraction than the first book, which wasn’t my favorite. I thought he kissed her a few too many times (mostly on her forehead) and touched her despite the massive secret he was holding back and barely knowing each other. Their attraction is super quick after meeting and some events in the book felt a little like the plot was forcing it? Like the characters didn’t quite match up to what I feel like they should have been based on their past events/traumas?
If I could nit-pick one thing, it’s that there were so many ellipses (…) used through the book, it got to be a little crazy and very noticeable—especially when a paragraph of dialogue would have six or more of them.
One thing I did like that while it deals a lot with Marian being an assassin, mentions of torture and parental abuse, and some other hard topics like deaths and grief, it didn’t feel heavy at all to me. The author didn’t show a lot of the details of those parts and it was more like passing mentions that the characters have experienced in the past and are trying to work through. Which made it feel cleaner even though it mentioned things that would usually be rough to read. I consider this to be a positive personally, and a talent.
Main Content-
Elves’ magic comes from their blood and bones, (a few mentions of a human who planned to collect an elf’s blood); Elves can use their magic to heal, make glamors to hide their identities, and also use it to control their slaves or make magical bonds/pacts with others; Elves are able to compel slaves or elves (or humans) with less magic powers to do something or answer their questions (or else be in major pain; we see both sides of this with Robin and Marian); If one half of a married elven couple dies, the other half will die within a day; In the elven world, curses are the name of power that is used to cause harm.
Robin has power over wind and water which he can use to create storms (or push it away from his ship) and also pull light from somewhere else to use; Another elf has the control of plants and uses it to create vines to grab others (see on-page); A magical creature can either blow a toxic breath that can blind someone or a healing breath; An elf who is known for cruel torture is called a demon.
All about and many, many mentions of elves, their magic, & enchantments.
A side character is called Brother Tuck and is religious, mentioning about the Creator (much to the dismay of the others around him as they don’t believe in a higher power and make some grumbling comments towards him and his faith; He also kisses his sun pendant necklace in a thankful moment; Marian says to him that his Creator probably wouldn’t approve of her, but he tells her to not be sure about that; He later praises the Creator).
Killing someone (self-defense; *Spoiler* ), Being held at knife-point and holding others at knife-point, Being slapped, Fighting (including fighting humans, elves, and a sea monster), Stabbing others and throwing knives in fights, A ship wreck during a bad storm, A fire, Pain, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to a few sentences).
No language stronger than ‘stupid’ and an unfinished ‘what the…’; The fictional adjective “flaming” and “cursed” are said to add emphasis (up to more than ten times); Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
At the beginning, Marian feels relief at the thought of dying because then she won’t have to kill anyone else on her father’s orders.
Marian has been raised by her abusive father to be his assassin and she has killed a dozen people before, always having reasons to justify those assignments; He plans for her to poison and kill the elf king, but she doesn’t want to do it (but goes after he threatens her friend).
Marian’s father is abusive and we hear about many of the beatings and scars he’s given her throughout the book (including her being stabbed in the shoulder and it leaving a bad scar & another beating that left her unable to walk for a week, up to 2-3 sentences).
Most elves are unable to lie, but can still deceive (so it’s important to watch what they say; Robin was cursed to be able to tell lies and be able to tell if others are lying to him); Prejudice towards humans to elves and elves to humans is shown on-page and mentioned often.
Mentions of possible wars; Mentions of deaths, murders, & grief (up to a few sentences); Mentions of a cruel elf who is known for torturing and harming others to get the answers he wants (often the worse criminals, up to a sentence or two on details); Mentions of nightmares of horrible events & deaths; Mentions of a planned kidnapping, hostage situation, & possible torture; Mentions of injuries, pain, scars, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of poisons, poisonings, & near deaths; Mentions of monster-like creatures, how dangerous they are, & fighting/harming them; Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of running away from home & a mother leaving her husband and daughter; Mentions of a wife saying she never loved her husband and wanting to leave him (she wanted to see if her old flame was still single as well, but because her and her husband were elves, they died due to marriage being a serious bond); Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of drownings (& possible drownings); A few mentions of a torture method (of tying someone to a wooden board and throwing them into the sea to have a slow and agonizing death; not a real punishment, but what Robin thinks happens to Marian); A few mentions of drinking & alcohol; A few mentions of Marian’s tattoo.
6 hand/knuckles/fingers kisses,
6 head/forehead kisses,
2 cheek kisses,
A moment with a few kisses on her cheeks and forehead,
1 fingers-to-lips touch,
1 almost kiss (up to a couple sentences),
2 kisses with no details,
3 kisses lasting a sentence,
2 kisses lasting a couple sentences,
1 kiss lasting 2-3 sentences,
Wanting to kiss/be kissed (up to a couple sentences); Seeing a wife kiss her husband’s head.
Lots of Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Warmth, Flutters, Noticing, & Staring (including muscles and curves, up to a few sentences); Blushes; A lot of attraction & thinking about the other.
When Marian’s clothes are wet, Robin notices her feminine body because of her clothing clinging to her curves; Robin later notices Marian’s “alluring figure” and then keeps his eyes on her face; While it would be easier for Robin to heal Marian by touching her heart, he isn’t that forward to place his hand on her chest (and touches her back instead); When waking her up from a nightmare, Robin thinks that being in Marian’s bedroom is a dangerous place to be when she touches him; Marian thinks that while she is attracted to Robin, it’s not magic or lust that is causing her feelings;
A female elf flirts with Robin (twice).
Mentions of kisses & kissing; A couple mentions of human’s lust (implied for power and wealth, but not fully clear).
This was pretty good, I just didn’t like it as much as the first book in the series. Marian and Robin felt very similar to Ella and Altair, just with different traumas. But the way they spoke and acted reminded me a lot of the prior couple. I’ll admit to not liking Robin a ton because he was very…poetic? sappy? romantic? all of the above? Towards his emotions to Marian. I found myself rolling my eyes a few times because of it.
Because of that, this one was cheesier and had quicker romance/attraction than the first book, which wasn’t my favorite. I thought he kissed her a few too many times (mostly on her forehead) and touched her despite the massive secret he was holding back and barely knowing each other. Their attraction is super quick after meeting and some events in the book felt a little like the plot was forcing it? Like the characters didn’t quite match up to what I feel like they should have been based on their past events/traumas?
If I could nit-pick one thing, it’s that there were so many ellipses (…) used through the book, it got to be a little crazy and very noticeable—especially when a paragraph of dialogue would have six or more of them.
One thing I did like that while it deals a lot with Marian being an assassin, mentions of torture and parental abuse, and some other hard topics like deaths and grief, it didn’t feel heavy at all to me. The author didn’t show a lot of the details of those parts and it was more like passing mentions that the characters have experienced in the past and are trying to work through. Which made it feel cleaner even though it mentioned things that would usually be rough to read. I consider this to be a positive personally, and a talent.
Main Content-
Elves’ magic comes from their blood and bones, (a few mentions of a human who planned to collect an elf’s blood); Elves can use their magic to heal, make glamors to hide their identities, and also use it to control their slaves or make magical bonds/pacts with others; Elves are able to compel slaves or elves (or humans) with less magic powers to do something or answer their questions (or else be in major pain; we see both sides of this with Robin and Marian); If one half of a married elven couple dies, the other half will die within a day; In the elven world, curses are the name of power that is used to cause harm.
Robin has power over wind and water which he can use to create storms (or push it away from his ship) and also pull light from somewhere else to use; Another elf has the control of plants and uses it to create vines to grab others (see on-page); A magical creature can either blow a toxic breath that can blind someone or a healing breath; An elf who is known for cruel torture is called a demon.
All about and many, many mentions of elves, their magic, & enchantments.
A side character is called Brother Tuck and is religious, mentioning about the Creator (much to the dismay of the others around him as they don’t believe in a higher power and make some grumbling comments towards him and his faith; He also kisses his sun pendant necklace in a thankful moment; Marian says to him that his Creator probably wouldn’t approve of her, but he tells her to not be sure about that; He later praises the Creator).
Killing someone (self-defense; *Spoiler* ), Being held at knife-point and holding others at knife-point, Being slapped, Fighting (including fighting humans, elves, and a sea monster), Stabbing others and throwing knives in fights, A ship wreck during a bad storm, A fire, Pain, Injuries, & Blood/Bleeding (up to a few sentences).
No language stronger than ‘stupid’ and an unfinished ‘what the…’; The fictional adjective “flaming” and “cursed” are said to add emphasis (up to more than ten times); Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
At the beginning, Marian feels relief at the thought of dying because then she won’t have to kill anyone else on her father’s orders.
Marian has been raised by her abusive father to be his assassin and she has killed a dozen people before, always having reasons to justify those assignments; He plans for her to poison and kill the elf king, but she doesn’t want to do it (but goes after he threatens her friend).
Marian’s father is abusive and we hear about many of the beatings and scars he’s given her throughout the book (including her being stabbed in the shoulder and it leaving a bad scar & another beating that left her unable to walk for a week, up to 2-3 sentences).
Most elves are unable to lie, but can still deceive (so it’s important to watch what they say; Robin was cursed to be able to tell lies and be able to tell if others are lying to him); Prejudice towards humans to elves and elves to humans is shown on-page and mentioned often.
Mentions of possible wars; Mentions of deaths, murders, & grief (up to a few sentences); Mentions of a cruel elf who is known for torturing and harming others to get the answers he wants (often the worse criminals, up to a sentence or two on details); Mentions of nightmares of horrible events & deaths; Mentions of a planned kidnapping, hostage situation, & possible torture; Mentions of injuries, pain, scars, & blood/bleeding (up to a few sentences); Mentions of poisons, poisonings, & near deaths; Mentions of monster-like creatures, how dangerous they are, & fighting/harming them; Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of running away from home & a mother leaving her husband and daughter; Mentions of a wife saying she never loved her husband and wanting to leave him (she wanted to see if her old flame was still single as well, but because her and her husband were elves, they died due to marriage being a serious bond); Mentions of lies, lying, & deceit; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of drownings (& possible drownings); A few mentions of a torture method (of tying someone to a wooden board and throwing them into the sea to have a slow and agonizing death; not a real punishment, but what Robin thinks happens to Marian); A few mentions of drinking & alcohol; A few mentions of Marian’s tattoo.
6 hand/knuckles/fingers kisses,
6 head/forehead kisses,
2 cheek kisses,
A moment with a few kisses on her cheeks and forehead,
1 fingers-to-lips touch,
1 almost kiss (up to a couple sentences),
2 kisses with no details,
3 kisses lasting a sentence,
2 kisses lasting a couple sentences,
1 kiss lasting 2-3 sentences,
Wanting to kiss/be kissed (up to a couple sentences); Seeing a wife kiss her husband’s head.
Lots of Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Warmth, Flutters, Noticing, & Staring (including muscles and curves, up to a few sentences); Blushes; A lot of attraction & thinking about the other.
When Marian’s clothes are wet, Robin notices her feminine body because of her clothing clinging to her curves; Robin later notices Marian’s “alluring figure” and then keeps his eyes on her face; While it would be easier for Robin to heal Marian by touching her heart, he isn’t that forward to place his hand on her chest (and touches her back instead); When waking her up from a nightmare, Robin thinks that being in Marian’s bedroom is a dangerous place to be when she touches him; Marian thinks that while she is attracted to Robin, it’s not magic or lust that is causing her feelings;
A female elf flirts with Robin (twice).
Mentions of kisses & kissing; A couple mentions of human’s lust (implied for power and wealth, but not fully clear).
July 7, 2024
Obsessed. With. This. Book.
Robin and Mary have my heart!!!!
First off - love a good Robin Hood retelling and man the way different parts of this story were woven together were perfection! The nods to the original legend but also the creativity of elven culture was 👌 *chef's kiss* perfection.
Second- I loved the continual elven world building! So much fun to learn more about the magic, the kingdoms and the mythical creatures!
Third- OOOF the political intrigue, internal emotional turmoil, and HEALING!!!! I legit cried at least twice during this book because the emotions were so well written and my heart just went out to the characters
Fourth- I LOVE the way both Mary and Robin were strong. Their relationship was healthy and the way they communicated and grew together was positively fantastic. Like hello, thank you for writing a real life like relationship into this fantasy book. Ugh I love every bit of the romance here.
Speaking of romance! The push and pull, the little moment, the whole build up was entrancing and I did not put it down.
Literally sat down and didn't stop reading until I finished the whole book, it was that good.
So, needless to say I'm obsessed. I want the next book in the series, like yesterday.
Well done. It's positively amazing. So so so in love with this story. ❤️
💋Sweet kisses only
⚠️ Past abuse (off page), emotional betrayal and there are fight scenes and death (it's fantasy but not descriptive at all really)
Robin and Mary have my heart!!!!
First off - love a good Robin Hood retelling and man the way different parts of this story were woven together were perfection! The nods to the original legend but also the creativity of elven culture was 👌 *chef's kiss* perfection.
Second- I loved the continual elven world building! So much fun to learn more about the magic, the kingdoms and the mythical creatures!
Third- OOOF the political intrigue, internal emotional turmoil, and HEALING!!!! I legit cried at least twice during this book because the emotions were so well written and my heart just went out to the characters
Fourth- I LOVE the way both Mary and Robin were strong. Their relationship was healthy and the way they communicated and grew together was positively fantastic. Like hello, thank you for writing a real life like relationship into this fantasy book. Ugh I love every bit of the romance here.
Speaking of romance! The push and pull, the little moment, the whole build up was entrancing and I did not put it down.
Literally sat down and didn't stop reading until I finished the whole book, it was that good.
So, needless to say I'm obsessed. I want the next book in the series, like yesterday.
Well done. It's positively amazing. So so so in love with this story. ❤️
💋Sweet kisses only
⚠️ Past abuse (off page), emotional betrayal and there are fight scenes and death (it's fantasy but not descriptive at all really)
May 2, 2024
This book was just what I needed to read today! It pulled me into the story from page one and didn't let me go until I finished it!
Anabelle Raven just has a way with creating worlds and stories with so much depth, magic and emotion that just keeps you gripped to the story!
I love how she can take these well known fairytales and retell them perfectly so you still get the hints of the fairytale but with an entirely new story.
The adventure was amazing, the danger was thrilling and the romance was a perfect slow burn.
I adored Marian for her courage and heart. I loved that she could truly wake up in enemy territory and yet be ready for a fight. I loved that she could totally hold her own and yet could be so vulnerable at the same time.
I loved that Robin was her perfect other half. Anabelle just writes the best protective hero's who are total cinnamon rolls for the girls they love. He was fierce, loyal, quirky, smooth and totally someone you just want to hang out with. I loved the banter between Marian and Robin!
I loved that they both had so much hardship and trauma they both had experienced. Yet together they could heal and become whole once again. They truly prove that your scars don't make you unlovable to those who value who you are.
If you are looking for a wonderful fantasy retelling series totally give this one a go! But totally start with Ella and the Elf so you can appreciate this one more too! They are fast reads and so worth the time!
Physical Intimacy Level 2 (Non descriptive longer kisses)
Dual first person POV
Zero Swearing
Mild Violence/mentions of blood/people dying/injuries etc
Anabelle Raven just has a way with creating worlds and stories with so much depth, magic and emotion that just keeps you gripped to the story!
I love how she can take these well known fairytales and retell them perfectly so you still get the hints of the fairytale but with an entirely new story.
The adventure was amazing, the danger was thrilling and the romance was a perfect slow burn.
I adored Marian for her courage and heart. I loved that she could truly wake up in enemy territory and yet be ready for a fight. I loved that she could totally hold her own and yet could be so vulnerable at the same time.
I loved that Robin was her perfect other half. Anabelle just writes the best protective hero's who are total cinnamon rolls for the girls they love. He was fierce, loyal, quirky, smooth and totally someone you just want to hang out with. I loved the banter between Marian and Robin!
I loved that they both had so much hardship and trauma they both had experienced. Yet together they could heal and become whole once again. They truly prove that your scars don't make you unlovable to those who value who you are.
If you are looking for a wonderful fantasy retelling series totally give this one a go! But totally start with Ella and the Elf so you can appreciate this one more too! They are fast reads and so worth the time!
Physical Intimacy Level 2 (Non descriptive longer kisses)
Dual first person POV
Zero Swearing
Mild Violence/mentions of blood/people dying/injuries etc
April 14, 2025
Princess Marian has lived a secret life as an assassin. Blackmailed by her father, a human king, to go to our Elf/Human royal couple from book 1 and be present for elf’s poisoned death and then lead their kingdom to be conquered by the humans. But wait! Our hero Robin is a mercenary who is hired to kidnap her! With wind and water magic, a storm upsets her ship and she is saved by the elves. With her identity safely hidden she becomes fast friends with them. This book felt like it went on to many parts with betrayal and secrets and pains and treachery. It was a good read with some surprising twists and turns. This is a just kisses romance. 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Read
August 14, 2024DNF bei 50%
October 6, 2024
Marian and the Elf is the second book in the Elves & Legends series by Anabelle Raven. The books in this series are loose fairy tale retellings set in a high fantasy world of humans and elves with magical powers. I thoroughly enjoyed the first book, Ella and the Elf, so I decided to give this one a try. Although I don't usually enjoy Robin Hood-inspired stories as much as princess ones, this book had both! This version of Marian is a rebel princess who becomes a pirate in an attempt to escape her cruel father. Generational trauma is something that this book shares with its prequel and will likely be an ongoing theme throughout this series. Another continuing theme is prejudice. Both books tell love stories between a human and an elf in a world where the two races are at odds with each other. This one is more action-packed than the gentle Ella's story, so it appeals to a more adventuresome audience.
Although Marian and the Elf is inspired by the Robin Hood legends, there are no references to the elf named Robin being a vigilante hero who steals from the rich to give to the poor. Instead, he is a mercenary who is cursed to get a bad taste in his mouth when someone lies, including himself. Marian is not a generous and sheltered maiden but instead a troubled princess with an abusive father who forces her to commit crimes for him including murder. Despite its lack of ties to Robin Hood, this book is a swashbuckling original adventure with a steamy no-spice romance. When Marian's ship is attacked by a storm, she is rescued by a band of elves who intend to kidnap her. Fearing for her life, she withholds her identity as a princess and pretends to be a pirate named Mary. Robin quickly develops feelings toward her that he didn't realize he was capable of having with a human.
Some elements of this book are difficult to take in, so I would not recommend it for a younger audience despite having a clean love story. Marian suffers from years of abuse from her father and struggles with night terrors that she has trouble waking from. Robin suffers from a difficult childhood, and his binding elven magic forces him to keep his promise to capture and surrender Marian to the bad guy despite his feelings for her. This creates a huge obstacle in their relationship that is difficult to overcome. I can't say it's the most romantic book I've ever read, but it is one of the most sincere. Both Marian and Robin fully understand the consequences of their actions and must find a way to redeem themselves so they can be together. It is not a light-hearted romance, but it is a powerful one.
One of my favorite things about fairy tale adaptation series is how all the books in a series tie into each other. Altair and Ella, the main couple from the previous book, Ella and the Elf, make more than just a cameo appearance at the end of this story. They play a vital role in the book's climax forcing Robin and Marian to earn their trust for the sake of their kingdoms. Since both couples consist of a male elf and a human woman who both had to overcome prejudice within their races, it was interesting to see them interact with each other. They don't trust each other immediately despite their similar circumstances, but after the ordeal they face together, they become good friends. Anabelle Raven has created a rich fantasy world to retell these classic stories. It is a unique setting filled with magic and many obstacles for interracial couples to overcome together.
Marian and the Elf is a swashbuckling retelling of the Robin Hood legend, set in a rich high fantasy world of humans and elves with magical powers. With its themes of generational trauma, prejudice, and forbidden love, this book takes a darker and more action-packed approach than its predecessor, Ella and the Elf. Despite its connections to Robin Hood, this book carves its own path, introducing a rebel princess turned pirate and a cursed elf mercenary whose love story is fraught with obstacles. While dealing with heavy themes, the book remains a sincere and powerful romance, and its ties to the previous book in the series add a delightful layer of depth. I highly recommend this series to fans of fantasy and fairy tale retellings, but note that this book may be more suited to adult readers due to its mature themes. Overall, Anabelle Raven has crafted a compelling and immersive world, and I eagerly look forward to seeing how the series continues to unfold.
Although Marian and the Elf is inspired by the Robin Hood legends, there are no references to the elf named Robin being a vigilante hero who steals from the rich to give to the poor. Instead, he is a mercenary who is cursed to get a bad taste in his mouth when someone lies, including himself. Marian is not a generous and sheltered maiden but instead a troubled princess with an abusive father who forces her to commit crimes for him including murder. Despite its lack of ties to Robin Hood, this book is a swashbuckling original adventure with a steamy no-spice romance. When Marian's ship is attacked by a storm, she is rescued by a band of elves who intend to kidnap her. Fearing for her life, she withholds her identity as a princess and pretends to be a pirate named Mary. Robin quickly develops feelings toward her that he didn't realize he was capable of having with a human.
Some elements of this book are difficult to take in, so I would not recommend it for a younger audience despite having a clean love story. Marian suffers from years of abuse from her father and struggles with night terrors that she has trouble waking from. Robin suffers from a difficult childhood, and his binding elven magic forces him to keep his promise to capture and surrender Marian to the bad guy despite his feelings for her. This creates a huge obstacle in their relationship that is difficult to overcome. I can't say it's the most romantic book I've ever read, but it is one of the most sincere. Both Marian and Robin fully understand the consequences of their actions and must find a way to redeem themselves so they can be together. It is not a light-hearted romance, but it is a powerful one.
One of my favorite things about fairy tale adaptation series is how all the books in a series tie into each other. Altair and Ella, the main couple from the previous book, Ella and the Elf, make more than just a cameo appearance at the end of this story. They play a vital role in the book's climax forcing Robin and Marian to earn their trust for the sake of their kingdoms. Since both couples consist of a male elf and a human woman who both had to overcome prejudice within their races, it was interesting to see them interact with each other. They don't trust each other immediately despite their similar circumstances, but after the ordeal they face together, they become good friends. Anabelle Raven has created a rich fantasy world to retell these classic stories. It is a unique setting filled with magic and many obstacles for interracial couples to overcome together.
Marian and the Elf is a swashbuckling retelling of the Robin Hood legend, set in a rich high fantasy world of humans and elves with magical powers. With its themes of generational trauma, prejudice, and forbidden love, this book takes a darker and more action-packed approach than its predecessor, Ella and the Elf. Despite its connections to Robin Hood, this book carves its own path, introducing a rebel princess turned pirate and a cursed elf mercenary whose love story is fraught with obstacles. While dealing with heavy themes, the book remains a sincere and powerful romance, and its ties to the previous book in the series add a delightful layer of depth. I highly recommend this series to fans of fantasy and fairy tale retellings, but note that this book may be more suited to adult readers due to its mature themes. Overall, Anabelle Raven has crafted a compelling and immersive world, and I eagerly look forward to seeing how the series continues to unfold.
August 28, 2025
ˋ°•*⁀➷ˋ°•*⁀➷ˋ°•*⁀➷ˋ°•*⁀➷ˋ°•*⁀➷ˋ°•*⁀➷ˋ°•*⁀➷
DNF on page 90 30%
⚔️~Genres~⚔️
Fantasy/Romance/Retelling/Dual pov/Pirates/Hidden identity
Marian is supposed to kill the elf king. Robin is supposed to abduct her. Trusting each other would mean betraying their people. Trusting their people might be worse.
🏴☠️~Characters~🏴☠️
(Marian "Mary") FMC I didn't really like her that much she was kinda annoying.
(Robin) MMC He was really emotional and I didn't like that.
(King Fitenalter) MARIAN'S FATHER He was super abusive towards Marian, Beating and stabbing her whenever she did something he didn't want her to do...yeah I didn't like him at all.
"THE MARY MEN"
(Jonan) He was ok I guess.
(Willamen) He was boring and not really even in the book (at least what I read)
(Tuckart "Tuck" "Brother Tuck") I think he was meant to be funny but I just found him to be insufferable.
👑~Quotes~👑
I had let her charm me without even trying. Her strength, her courage, her fears, the way she handled overwhelming circumstances all worked their magic like silken threads around my heart.
Pirate wasn’t anything like assassin. Pirate was full of adventure and daring and surviving deadly storms. Assassin was full of secrecy and shadows and murder. Pirates had fun. Assassins followed instructions. Pirates didn’t worry about rules or consequences. Assassins only knew consequences. They did their jobs and avoided punishments.
She was a fearless pirate, but she was also terrified. She had a sharp wit and a quick tongue, but she also froze and struggled for words. She was like four different personalities smashed together into one gorgeous woman. And that was the heart of the problem. I’d known elves who were strong, smart, beautiful, scared, and who even struggled to find the right words when they were nervous. None of them tempted my resolution to protect my own feelings. But Mary… Mary was the fusion of all those traits into a captivating charm and a flaming beauty.
All the years I’d spent building walls around my heart, and she just came aboard and started tearing them apart with her impossible spirit and vulnerable eyes.
🌊~What I liked~🌊
The plot it had potential.
🏹~What I disliked~🏹
The writing style There was a ... After like every other sentence (Being dramatic but still), The romance Robin was instantly willing to share most of his secrets with Marian because she is pretty. it was just way to fast in my opinion, The cover idk there's just something about it I don't like,
🗡️~Content/Trigger Warnings~🗡️
Abuse from parent (Beating, stabbing etc.), Wound Tending, injury, Fighting, Drinking (all adults)
🌬️~Language~🌬️
None.
DNF on page 90 30%
⚔️~Genres~⚔️
Fantasy/Romance/Retelling/Dual pov/Pirates/Hidden identity
Marian is supposed to kill the elf king. Robin is supposed to abduct her. Trusting each other would mean betraying their people. Trusting their people might be worse.
🏴☠️~Characters~🏴☠️
(Marian "Mary") FMC I didn't really like her that much she was kinda annoying.
(Robin) MMC He was really emotional and I didn't like that.
(King Fitenalter) MARIAN'S FATHER He was super abusive towards Marian, Beating and stabbing her whenever she did something he didn't want her to do...yeah I didn't like him at all.
"THE MARY MEN"
(Jonan) He was ok I guess.
(Willamen) He was boring and not really even in the book (at least what I read)
(Tuckart "Tuck" "Brother Tuck") I think he was meant to be funny but I just found him to be insufferable.
👑~Quotes~👑
I had let her charm me without even trying. Her strength, her courage, her fears, the way she handled overwhelming circumstances all worked their magic like silken threads around my heart.
Pirate wasn’t anything like assassin. Pirate was full of adventure and daring and surviving deadly storms. Assassin was full of secrecy and shadows and murder. Pirates had fun. Assassins followed instructions. Pirates didn’t worry about rules or consequences. Assassins only knew consequences. They did their jobs and avoided punishments.
She was a fearless pirate, but she was also terrified. She had a sharp wit and a quick tongue, but she also froze and struggled for words. She was like four different personalities smashed together into one gorgeous woman. And that was the heart of the problem. I’d known elves who were strong, smart, beautiful, scared, and who even struggled to find the right words when they were nervous. None of them tempted my resolution to protect my own feelings. But Mary… Mary was the fusion of all those traits into a captivating charm and a flaming beauty.
All the years I’d spent building walls around my heart, and she just came aboard and started tearing them apart with her impossible spirit and vulnerable eyes.
🌊~What I liked~🌊
The plot it had potential.
🏹~What I disliked~🏹
The writing style There was a ... After like every other sentence (Being dramatic but still), The romance Robin was instantly willing to share most of his secrets with Marian because she is pretty. it was just way to fast in my opinion, The cover idk there's just something about it I don't like,
🗡️~Content/Trigger Warnings~🗡️
Abuse from parent (Beating, stabbing etc.), Wound Tending, injury, Fighting, Drinking (all adults)
🌬️~Language~🌬️
None.
May 31, 2024
Content:
Language: None.
Violence: High mild. There is talk of torture, but nothing occurs 'on screen' or is even described. Just screaming in the background. Some perilous situations at sea, shipwreck etc. Also talk of poisoning and death does occur 'on screen' but is not graphically described. Very little blood depicted.
Sexual: High mild. The most sensual it gets is, as an example: There is hugging and kissing and general touching that isn't steamy. Swoony yes. Steamy no.
Triggers: Abusive parent depicted, physically and emotionally. Manipulation and betrayal also depicted briefly. Also (mild spoiler)
This series is probably going to be my light fluffy fun series I go to when I need something sweet. I look forward to the next 3 books in the series, and to see how the author improves as she goes.
Robin and Marian were interesting together. It was a much more satisfying romance than the first book in a few ways, as it felt like they had to really work for it in this one rather than the almost insta-infatuation to love that Ella and Altair had in the first book. I also appreciated that the author went into more of both of the protagonists background, emotional hang-ups, and told us the reasons for the hesitation as well as the attraction between them both.
The pirate theme made me smile.
The whole (big spoiler) So that threw me off a bit.
On a whole, I feel like the characters were fairly fleshed out, but could have used some polishing since some of their actions seemed to be 'for the plot/romance' vs. what they'd actually do based on their background and personality. It was believable enough that I still enjoyed the story though.
Solid fun book. Some developmental struggles, but not an issue at all to my wanting more!
Language: None.
Violence: High mild. There is talk of torture, but nothing occurs 'on screen' or is even described. Just screaming in the background. Some perilous situations at sea, shipwreck etc. Also talk of poisoning and death does occur 'on screen' but is not graphically described. Very little blood depicted.
Sexual: High mild. The most sensual it gets is, as an example: There is hugging and kissing and general touching that isn't steamy. Swoony yes. Steamy no.
Triggers: Abusive parent depicted, physically and emotionally. Manipulation and betrayal also depicted briefly. Also (mild spoiler)
This series is probably going to be my light fluffy fun series I go to when I need something sweet. I look forward to the next 3 books in the series, and to see how the author improves as she goes.
Robin and Marian were interesting together. It was a much more satisfying romance than the first book in a few ways, as it felt like they had to really work for it in this one rather than the almost insta-infatuation to love that Ella and Altair had in the first book. I also appreciated that the author went into more of both of the protagonists background, emotional hang-ups, and told us the reasons for the hesitation as well as the attraction between them both.
The pirate theme made me smile.
The whole (big spoiler) So that threw me off a bit.
On a whole, I feel like the characters were fairly fleshed out, but could have used some polishing since some of their actions seemed to be 'for the plot/romance' vs. what they'd actually do based on their background and personality. It was believable enough that I still enjoyed the story though.
Solid fun book. Some developmental struggles, but not an issue at all to my wanting more!
July 10, 2024
This was unexpectedly so good! I really enjoyed reading this
It had everything that I love in a fantasy
⚔️ strong heroine
⚔️ enemies to lovers
⚔️clean yet heart pounding romance
⚔️ dark pasts
⚔️ nightmares teehee
⚔️ new friendships
⚔️ camaraderie
⚔️ betrayal
⚔️ secret identities
And much more!
It was really fun to read and I definitely laughed out loud at times
The romance was perfect!
The action was great!
And the worldbuilding was easy to imagine
Mary was such a great heroine because there’s so many layers to her
She has the air of a princess but knows how to wield a knife better than any man. Yet she’s a woman with fragile emotions and learns that it’s okay not to hide them.
I wanted to scream JUST CRY ALREADY CAUSE I CERTAINLY AM
she so strong and brave and courageous and I love reading about women like her! Like would you be brave if you nearly drowned then was saved by your ENEMY who is an ELF and is GORGEOUS?!
Girl.
Honestly I’d forget my own name the second I set my sight on Mr. Bulky Man Green Eyes
I’d probably betray my own people for him too
Robin 🤭
Oh he was delightful yall
He had me blushing and kicking my feet
He’s a flirt but he does it so well
But that’s not who he only is he’s so caring and generous and protective
This man didn’t even know anything about Mary but the second he saw her on that piece of wood drifting in the sea his heart was moved to action and when he realized she was a woman
Oh FORGET IT
he was like SHE IS MINE TO PROTECT
I was like TEEHEEHEHEHEHEHEHHEEE
so good
They’re so good together!!
I loved it all!
It had everything that I love in a fantasy
⚔️ strong heroine
⚔️ enemies to lovers
⚔️clean yet heart pounding romance
⚔️ dark pasts
⚔️ nightmares teehee
⚔️ new friendships
⚔️ camaraderie
⚔️ betrayal
⚔️ secret identities
And much more!
It was really fun to read and I definitely laughed out loud at times
The romance was perfect!
The action was great!
And the worldbuilding was easy to imagine
Mary was such a great heroine because there’s so many layers to her
She has the air of a princess but knows how to wield a knife better than any man. Yet she’s a woman with fragile emotions and learns that it’s okay not to hide them.
I wanted to scream JUST CRY ALREADY CAUSE I CERTAINLY AM
she so strong and brave and courageous and I love reading about women like her! Like would you be brave if you nearly drowned then was saved by your ENEMY who is an ELF and is GORGEOUS?!
Girl.
Honestly I’d forget my own name the second I set my sight on Mr. Bulky Man Green Eyes
I’d probably betray my own people for him too
Robin 🤭
Oh he was delightful yall
He had me blushing and kicking my feet
He’s a flirt but he does it so well
But that’s not who he only is he’s so caring and generous and protective
This man didn’t even know anything about Mary but the second he saw her on that piece of wood drifting in the sea his heart was moved to action and when he realized she was a woman
Oh FORGET IT
he was like SHE IS MINE TO PROTECT
I was like TEEHEEHEHEHEHEHEHHEEE
so good
They’re so good together!!
I loved it all!
April 16, 2025
I’m absolutely loving this series. Robin is my favorite one of Anabelle Raven’s MMCs so far. He is a bit morally ambiguous. He has a lot of room for growth. Some of his decisions are hurtful but the way he makes it right and chooses vulnerability for the girl is just *swoon worthy*.
This is a reimagined Robin Hood retelling with elves and magic and plenty of deception. And pirates 🤩. I love a good story at sea with shipwrecks, conspiracy, and themes of good and evil. All of which I was able to find in this story. I didn’t want it to end.
My favorite part I think is the connection elves get in marriage. They hold marriage as the strongest bond an elf can make and through the marriage oaths they bind themselves wholly together both emotionally and physically. The husband and wife then can literally be bound through life until death. The way she encapsulates this idea in her books is a beautiful representation of how I believe God feels about it.
This one made me tear up a bit, I was genuinely sad it was over.
I plan to read the rest of the series somewhat out of order. They are interconnected stand-alones which are best read in order because each gives minor spoilers of the previous books. But the next would be Nolan and the Elf, followed by Ice and the Elves, and the Callista and the Elf which releases 4/29/25! 🫶🏻
🤭 there is no explicit dialogue in this series
🫑💖 PG rated spice with no explicit descriptions of sexual content. Only kisses and low descriptive touches.
This is a reimagined Robin Hood retelling with elves and magic and plenty of deception. And pirates 🤩. I love a good story at sea with shipwrecks, conspiracy, and themes of good and evil. All of which I was able to find in this story. I didn’t want it to end.
My favorite part I think is the connection elves get in marriage. They hold marriage as the strongest bond an elf can make and through the marriage oaths they bind themselves wholly together both emotionally and physically. The husband and wife then can literally be bound through life until death. The way she encapsulates this idea in her books is a beautiful representation of how I believe God feels about it.
This one made me tear up a bit, I was genuinely sad it was over.
I plan to read the rest of the series somewhat out of order. They are interconnected stand-alones which are best read in order because each gives minor spoilers of the previous books. But the next would be Nolan and the Elf, followed by Ice and the Elves, and the Callista and the Elf which releases 4/29/25! 🫶🏻
🤭 there is no explicit dialogue in this series
🫑💖 PG rated spice with no explicit descriptions of sexual content. Only kisses and low descriptive touches.
May 22, 2025
SO GOOD!
A lot of friends recommend this book and it did not disappoint. I loved reading it from beginning to end. Both characters are strong and broken, skilled yet imperfect, doing their best while wrestling with the worst inside of themselves. This makes the story more relatable and engaging. The story deals with hard issues in meaningful and respectful ways and yet remains fairly lighthearted, fantastical, and fun. The story is told from both perspectives and I really enjoyed getting to know the different flavors of self talk each character gave themselves. This is the second book in a series that could be read standalone but has some minor spoilers from the first book. Adventure, mystery, clean romance, non gory fighting, laugh out loud humor, and heart warming camaraderie all contribute to make this a truly terrific story not to be missed out on.
A lot of friends recommend this book and it did not disappoint. I loved reading it from beginning to end. Both characters are strong and broken, skilled yet imperfect, doing their best while wrestling with the worst inside of themselves. This makes the story more relatable and engaging. The story deals with hard issues in meaningful and respectful ways and yet remains fairly lighthearted, fantastical, and fun. The story is told from both perspectives and I really enjoyed getting to know the different flavors of self talk each character gave themselves. This is the second book in a series that could be read standalone but has some minor spoilers from the first book. Adventure, mystery, clean romance, non gory fighting, laugh out loud humor, and heart warming camaraderie all contribute to make this a truly terrific story not to be missed out on.
April 25, 2024
This story is wonderful! It is an amazing story. The characters came to life for me and i felt so much a part of this adventure. The way Anabelle Raven tells the story it makes is so belivable. I was gripping my seat in the action. I cried sad tears and happy tears. I felt the love in these characters and the friendships they formed with each other. I fell in love with Marian and Robin. There is so much truth in this story about love and trust. I cannot express enough how enjoyable this story is. I highly recommend this story for any one. Not just fantasy readers. I normally do not read fantasy but Anabelle Raven has changed that for me. Her books are really good! I recommend her Sandig chronicle series as well as her Elf series. Thank you again Anabelle Raven for a wonderful read.
June 3, 2024
I’m a sucker for a good Robin Hood retelling, and Marian and the Elf certainly qualifies. While this was my first true read of one of Annabelle Raven’s books, it won’t be my last. I read it in one go (even though I did try putting it down halfway through to go to bed) and was delighted from beginning to end.
Romance: a bit too much contact and kissing for me. It feels sweet and not sultry, however. I have no real issue with it, though I wouldn’t personally give it to my teenaged daughter, if I had one.
Violence: From the front of the book we have potential triggers listed as: mild fantasy violence (swords, knives) and death of loved ones; blackmail, coercion, betrayal; abduction & hostage themes; memories of abuse (physical & emotional)
Romance: a bit too much contact and kissing for me. It feels sweet and not sultry, however. I have no real issue with it, though I wouldn’t personally give it to my teenaged daughter, if I had one.
Violence: From the front of the book we have potential triggers listed as: mild fantasy violence (swords, knives) and death of loved ones; blackmail, coercion, betrayal; abduction & hostage themes; memories of abuse (physical & emotional)
June 28, 2024
This is my favorite book that I’ve read this year. I did not want to put it down. I was thinking about it all day while I couldn’t read.
It is such a good retelling of Robin Hood. So different and unexpected. Fast paced but descriptive enough that I wasn’t left wondering about things.
But my favorite part is how well Anabelle wrote the MCs feelings and thoughts and the little things that made them them. It resonated so deeply. I felt like I was feeling what they felt. Like I was there with them. I wanted to fall in love with Robin so badly (not in the book but in real life) because of how well he loved Marian.
The banter is perfection. I usually hate banter in books because it feels forced/fake but this was so realistic.
I wish I could give it 10 stars.
It is such a good retelling of Robin Hood. So different and unexpected. Fast paced but descriptive enough that I wasn’t left wondering about things.
But my favorite part is how well Anabelle wrote the MCs feelings and thoughts and the little things that made them them. It resonated so deeply. I felt like I was feeling what they felt. Like I was there with them. I wanted to fall in love with Robin so badly (not in the book but in real life) because of how well he loved Marian.
The banter is perfection. I usually hate banter in books because it feels forced/fake but this was so realistic.
I wish I could give it 10 stars.
July 12, 2024
Marion & Robin, humans & elves
This was a wonderful story of love, repentance, forgiveness, and acceptance. Marion is a human who has been taught misleading information about elves, and was trained as an unwilling assassin. Robin is an elf who has been taught misleading information about humans, and who has an interesting past. They are pleasantly surprised to learn they are not so different from each other. Through adventures together and betrayals, they grow in knowledge of each other and acceptance of each other’s imperfections. I loved the interactions between Marion & Robin; they are very cute together.
This was a wonderful story of love, repentance, forgiveness, and acceptance. Marion is a human who has been taught misleading information about elves, and was trained as an unwilling assassin. Robin is an elf who has been taught misleading information about humans, and who has an interesting past. They are pleasantly surprised to learn they are not so different from each other. Through adventures together and betrayals, they grow in knowledge of each other and acceptance of each other’s imperfections. I loved the interactions between Marion & Robin; they are very cute together.
June 11, 2024
I absolutely adored this book! Robin Hood is a dashing pirate elf on a mission to kidnap the human princess... and Marian is a beautiful human princess on a mission to assassinate the elf king. Without a doubt, these two main characters are at cross-purposes! I loved Robin's and Marian's interactions and their attraction to one another, which sizzles with slow-burn romance that manages to be sweet, clean, and very swoony. If you're looking for a fast-paced fantasy romance with opposites-attract, found family, touch-her-and-you-die, and a beautiful redemptive arc, don't miss this one!
August 14, 2024
Fun read
Cozy and fun - this is the first book I've read by Anabella raven and I must say it was great, nice easy read with no complications. Loved that it was a clean read and the story was fast paced.
Robin and Marian (Mary ) was lovely and I loved their chemistry (love an emotional man -robin was cute)
Can't wait for the next one (I didn't realise this was the second in the series so I'll back track to the beginning with the Cinderella retelling)
Cozy and fun - this is the first book I've read by Anabella raven and I must say it was great, nice easy read with no complications. Loved that it was a clean read and the story was fast paced.
Robin and Marian (Mary ) was lovely and I loved their chemistry (love an emotional man -robin was cute)
Can't wait for the next one (I didn't realise this was the second in the series so I'll back track to the beginning with the Cinderella retelling)
August 27, 2025
This is no-spice fantasy about a human princess rescued by an elf pirate, who work together to try for peace between their races. It's subtitled "a reimagined Robin Hood", but there were very few elements of the legend involved. It's generally enjoyable, but there are dark themes running throughout, which keep it from being a fun read. Overall I liked it, but I wasn't drawn deeply into the world or the story.
June 23, 2024
Great retelling
Oh my, but this was so much... I'm not sure what! Marian as an assassin, Robin as a pirate with some secrets, his crew as the Merry Men.
It was a delightful read that pulled me in fun the start, kept me up way too late, and then had me finish it in the car at the risk of getting car sick. I couldn't put it down.
Oh my, but this was so much... I'm not sure what! Marian as an assassin, Robin as a pirate with some secrets, his crew as the Merry Men.
It was a delightful read that pulled me in fun the start, kept me up way too late, and then had me finish it in the car at the risk of getting car sick. I couldn't put it down.
July 29, 2024
Lots of action in this one. Marian hates what her father has made her, but she knows she cannot escape him, she's tried and paid for it; but she is finally given her chance when she meets Robin, an elf Pirate, who is bound by a promise that involves Marian. Neither of them end up where they thought they would, and the plans they've made didn't resolve like they had hoped - only better!
February 8, 2025
I had so much fun reading this book! I love the dynamic between Marian and Robin! Robin was so fun to watch play pirate, and Marian played her different roles well. The story was a fun spin on Robin Hood. I liked all the elements Anabelle Raven brought into the story. Excellent writing and great book!!
December 26, 2025
Marian and the Elf
I love how Marian portrayed herself with a mask to keep her confidence but sometimes let it slip. And how Robin was always the first one to notice and respond.❤️ I like that they both care for their people and want the best solution for them. The knive dances was amazing😍🤭
I love how Marian portrayed herself with a mask to keep her confidence but sometimes let it slip. And how Robin was always the first one to notice and respond.❤️ I like that they both care for their people and want the best solution for them. The knive dances was amazing😍🤭
May 14, 2024
Amazing!!!
Robin and Mary's story swept me away. I loved watching them grow as people and grow together throughout the book. Wonderful story and character development! It was also great to get to see glimpses of some of my favorite characters from Ella and the Elf.
Robin and Mary's story swept me away. I loved watching them grow as people and grow together throughout the book. Wonderful story and character development! It was also great to get to see glimpses of some of my favorite characters from Ella and the Elf.
June 7, 2024
So cute!
Marian and the Elf was such a cute story! I loved that Marian was no damsel in distress and that Robin had some hard decisions to make. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and couldn't put it down!
Marian and the Elf was such a cute story! I loved that Marian was no damsel in distress and that Robin had some hard decisions to make. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and couldn't put it down!
June 18, 2024
adventure
What a marvelous retelling of Robin Hood (mixed with a bit of Snow White)! I loved the way the main characters got to know each other and to trust each other! This book is clean and uplifting.
What a marvelous retelling of Robin Hood (mixed with a bit of Snow White)! I loved the way the main characters got to know each other and to trust each other! This book is clean and uplifting.
August 14, 2024
I loved this
Annabelle brought these characters to life in such a beautiful way. I fell in love with them from the start. I hated putting it down when life interrupted. I’m hoping for another one in this series soon.
Annabelle brought these characters to life in such a beautiful way. I fell in love with them from the start. I hated putting it down when life interrupted. I’m hoping for another one in this series soon.
May 23, 2025
10/10 would read again.
Light, romantic adventures in a reimagined classic of Robin Hood. Some action, with amazing magics and dynamic characters. Story line of the book takes the idea of the classic story to a new level.
Light, romantic adventures in a reimagined classic of Robin Hood. Some action, with amazing magics and dynamic characters. Story line of the book takes the idea of the classic story to a new level.
August 10, 2025
“I swear, on the waters and winds that form and drive my power, you will be safe here.”…OH NO MY HEART!!! Robin Hood has always been one of my favorite stories and this was such a unique spin on that story. I really loved reading this book!
May 7, 2024
This was fantastic, I absorbed it in about 36 hours because I couldn't put it down. I absolutely adore how Ella and the Elf was tied into the story line. *chef kiss* it was perfect!
May 24, 2024
I loved this book! The romance is so sweet and the characters are skilled, independent but also vulnerable and scared.
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