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Sin City Salvation #3
Disprezzo
From USA Today Bestselling Author A. Zavarelli comes an angsty forbidden romance about second chances, forgiveness, and a love that conquers all.
Before the world knew me as a rock god, I was just the angry boy who stole her heart.
She was a good girl.
The forbidden fruit I wasn’t meant to taste.
Our stars were crossed, and fate had doomed us from the start.
She was promised to someone else.
I had her secret smiles.
Moments stolen in dark corners.
But I couldn’t have her future.
Destiny tore us apart, and all that remained was the ghost of her memory.
When she died, I did too.
But when I catch a glimpse of her five years later, alive and well, that love turns to hate as the bitter truth emerges.
She left me.
She lied.
And now, I’m going to make her pay.
This book is a standalone dark romance about a military veteran turned rockstar hero and the girl who stole his heart and never let it go.
Before the world knew me as a rock god, I was just the angry boy who stole her heart.
She was a good girl.
The forbidden fruit I wasn’t meant to taste.
Our stars were crossed, and fate had doomed us from the start.
She was promised to someone else.
I had her secret smiles.
Moments stolen in dark corners.
But I couldn’t have her future.
Destiny tore us apart, and all that remained was the ghost of her memory.
When she died, I did too.
But when I catch a glimpse of her five years later, alive and well, that love turns to hate as the bitter truth emerges.
She left me.
She lied.
And now, I’m going to make her pay.
This book is a standalone dark romance about a military veteran turned rockstar hero and the girl who stole his heart and never let it go.
742 pages, Paperback
First published April 25, 2023
412 people are currently reading
2327 people want to read
About the author
A. Zavarelli
56 books7,515 followersA. Zavarelli is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of dark and contemporary romance.
When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.
She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.
Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor
Facebook Reader Group- https://geni.us/FemmeFatales
Mailing List: https://geni.us/ucfAZH1
Instagram- https://geni.us/AZavarelliInstagram
Amazon- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAmazon
Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub
Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter
Website- https://www.azavarelli.com
When she’s not putting her characters through hell, she can usually be found watching bizarre and twisted documentaries in the name of research.
She currently lives in the Northwest with her lumberjack and an entire brood of fur babies.
Facebook Page- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAuthor
Facebook Reader Group- https://geni.us/FemmeFatales
Mailing List: https://geni.us/ucfAZH1
Instagram- https://geni.us/AZavarelliInstagram
Amazon- https://geni.us/AZavarelliAmazon
Bookbub- https://geni.us/AZavarelliBookbub
Twitter- https://geni.us/AZavarelliTwitter
Website- https://www.azavarelli.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 259 reviews
May 3, 2023
4.5
A. Zavarelli is one of my favorite authors, and this book is a perfect example of why. Contempt was nothing that I expected and everything I didn't know I needed! It grabbed me from the beginning and held on tight until the end.
If you want the best reading experience possible, do yourself a favor, and go into this one blind. The smallest of details can spoil the whole thing, and a lot of what made this book for me was not knowing what was going to happen next. This isn't a cookie cutter romance. There's a lot going on here, but it all works together perfectly to bring you an entertaining, intriguing, angsty, emotional romance.
The love this story centers around is complex, complicated, painful, and beautiful. Get ready for the backstories of these characters to have you raging, clutching your heart, and shedding tears. If you're anything like me, you won't be able to stop reading once you start, so make sure you don't begin right before bed unless you're willing to forgo your sleep for the night.
Overall, Contempt is an intense, forbidden, second chance romance that you don't want to miss. It's full of drama, tragedy, frustration, and mystery. Trying to figure out what's going on and what happened in the past is all part of the fun, so like I said before, don't read reviews, just open the book, and enjoy the ride.
Forbidden and second chance romance fans, this one's for you!
A. Zavarelli is one of my favorite authors, and this book is a perfect example of why. Contempt was nothing that I expected and everything I didn't know I needed! It grabbed me from the beginning and held on tight until the end.
If you want the best reading experience possible, do yourself a favor, and go into this one blind. The smallest of details can spoil the whole thing, and a lot of what made this book for me was not knowing what was going to happen next. This isn't a cookie cutter romance. There's a lot going on here, but it all works together perfectly to bring you an entertaining, intriguing, angsty, emotional romance.
The love this story centers around is complex, complicated, painful, and beautiful. Get ready for the backstories of these characters to have you raging, clutching your heart, and shedding tears. If you're anything like me, you won't be able to stop reading once you start, so make sure you don't begin right before bed unless you're willing to forgo your sleep for the night.
Overall, Contempt is an intense, forbidden, second chance romance that you don't want to miss. It's full of drama, tragedy, frustration, and mystery. Trying to figure out what's going on and what happened in the past is all part of the fun, so like I said before, don't read reviews, just open the book, and enjoy the ride.
Forbidden and second chance romance fans, this one's for you!
Read
April 26, 2023
Now Live: https://geni.us/ContemptAZ
Before the world knew me as a rock god, I was just the angry boy who stole her heart.
She was a good girl.
The forbidden fruit I wasn’t meant to taste.
Our stars were crossed, and fate had doomed us from the start.
She was promised to someone else.
I had her secret smiles.
Moments stolen in dark corners.
But I couldn’t have her future.
Destiny tore us apart, and all that remained was the ghost of her memory.
When she died, I did too.
But when I catch a glimpse of her five years later, alive and well, that love turns to hate as the bitter truth emerges.
She left me.
She lied.
And now, I’m going to make her pay.
This book is a standalone dark romance about a grumpy military veteran turned rockstar hero and the girl who stole his heart and never let it go.
April 11, 2023
Holy Hades!!! This book ruined me!!
With a dark tone and twists and turns that kept me questioning where this author was going to lead me next, I was completely consumed by this story. I admit, my heart belonged to Madden almost immediately. His life experiences were heart breaking and I desperately needed him to find a happy ever after. I’m a huge fan of a hero that’s possessive, and he was definitely that, but the situation had him tied in knots and it was pure agony to watch him trudge his way through to the end.
The rough and rugged journey of these characters is filled with mystery, bitterness, and so much angst I was an emotional mess. The layers throughout the story would give me the information I longed for before creating another question in my mind. It was such a wild ride I didn’t want to put it down.
This is told in three points of view, Madden’s, Lyric’s and Bianca’s, while flipping from the past to the present. The switch is always clearly marked making it easier to follow along with the timeline and character.
Sensitive readers should be aware that this deals with some dark, intense situations and possible triggers.
Multi POV
Message me for safety issues or triggers
Steam - 5 /5; explicit
With a dark tone and twists and turns that kept me questioning where this author was going to lead me next, I was completely consumed by this story. I admit, my heart belonged to Madden almost immediately. His life experiences were heart breaking and I desperately needed him to find a happy ever after. I’m a huge fan of a hero that’s possessive, and he was definitely that, but the situation had him tied in knots and it was pure agony to watch him trudge his way through to the end.
The rough and rugged journey of these characters is filled with mystery, bitterness, and so much angst I was an emotional mess. The layers throughout the story would give me the information I longed for before creating another question in my mind. It was such a wild ride I didn’t want to put it down.
This is told in three points of view, Madden’s, Lyric’s and Bianca’s, while flipping from the past to the present. The switch is always clearly marked making it easier to follow along with the timeline and character.
Sensitive readers should be aware that this deals with some dark, intense situations and possible triggers.
Multi POV
Message me for safety issues or triggers
Steam - 5 /5; explicit
June 14, 2023
I've loved everything I've read from this author... until now.
I love the concept of this book. I can get behind a good amnesia/revenge plot. But I couldn’t really get behind the way this story was told. There were too many flashbacks and not enough answers. Even in the end, I’m still wondering why it was told this way. It didn’t make it more mysterious. It made it more annoying. Every time there was a flashback, I got irritated. Why? Because just when I thought the glimpse into the past would give me SOME FREAKING ANSWERS, I got nothing. What was the point???
I love the concept of this book. I can get behind a good amnesia/revenge plot. But I couldn’t really get behind the way this story was told. There were too many flashbacks and not enough answers. Even in the end, I’m still wondering why it was told this way. It didn’t make it more mysterious. It made it more annoying. Every time there was a flashback, I got irritated. Why? Because just when I thought the glimpse into the past would give me SOME FREAKING ANSWERS, I got nothing. What was the point???
April 18, 2023
I am obsessed with any story that A. Zavarelli writes. Contempt was a dark and deeply emotional story of Bianca and Madden told to us via alternating past/present flashbacks. To be as vague as possible, all I can say is that this story is raw, edgy and so consuming. I absolutely FLOVED the enduring connection between Madden and Bianca, despite all of life's turmoil thrown their way.
This story was full of pain, fiery chemistry, a mystery that kept me glued to the pages and an enduring love that could not be denied. 5 stars! ~Ratula
This story was full of pain, fiery chemistry, a mystery that kept me glued to the pages and an enduring love that could not be denied. 5 stars! ~Ratula
April 8, 2023
She kisses me like I’m hers, and I steal every second of it. Because right now, I know she’s definitely mine.
Literally everything I've read by A. Zavarelli has been delightful and this book was no different! Bianca & Madden's story was so angsty and heartwrenching. I can't reveal much of the plot but this is a second chance/rockstar romance. The plot is one hell of a rollercoaster, it kept me on the edge of my seat. It has many chapters but the pacing is fast and the story is gripping enough to keep you engaged. I really enjoyed it! Highly recommended if you're up for an emotional ride with a plot full of pain, thrill and mystery.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
Literally everything I've read by A. Zavarelli has been delightful and this book was no different! Bianca & Madden's story was so angsty and heartwrenching. I can't reveal much of the plot but this is a second chance/rockstar romance. The plot is one hell of a rollercoaster, it kept me on the edge of my seat. It has many chapters but the pacing is fast and the story is gripping enough to keep you engaged. I really enjoyed it! Highly recommended if you're up for an emotional ride with a plot full of pain, thrill and mystery.
I received an ARC in exchange of an honest review
April 24, 2023
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trope: second chance
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Holy hell - what an emotional rollercoaster ride! I mean, people say that all the time, but this one seriously takes the cake. Starts off as a forbidden love and then dive bombs into an amnesia induced, enemies to lovers with a heavy dose of romantic suspense doused in secrets and betrayals, lol. This is a long one, folks. Like really long. But I was literally gripped in place from beginning to end waiting for everything to be revealed in an anxiety induced, semi-vegetative state where I could only read, lol 🙈.
Contempt was beautifully written darker romance with some serious twists and turns. The story did flip flop in time a LOT, which I'm not a huge fan of, but it definitely didn't hurt my overall love of the story. The character development was phenomenal. These are two very flawed characters with roadblock after roadblock put in front of them and yet they both manage to still survive and move forward. The chemistry between them is 🔥🔥🔥 and I thought it had the best, hottest hate smex scenes I've ever read. If you're looking for an intense read that will leave you both emotionally spent, but well satisfied - Contempt is definitely what you need!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
Trope: second chance
Angst: 😱😱😱😱😱
Smexy: 🔥🔥🔥
Holy hell - what an emotional rollercoaster ride! I mean, people say that all the time, but this one seriously takes the cake. Starts off as a forbidden love and then dive bombs into an amnesia induced, enemies to lovers with a heavy dose of romantic suspense doused in secrets and betrayals, lol. This is a long one, folks. Like really long. But I was literally gripped in place from beginning to end waiting for everything to be revealed in an anxiety induced, semi-vegetative state where I could only read, lol 🙈.
Contempt was beautifully written darker romance with some serious twists and turns. The story did flip flop in time a LOT, which I'm not a huge fan of, but it definitely didn't hurt my overall love of the story. The character development was phenomenal. These are two very flawed characters with roadblock after roadblock put in front of them and yet they both manage to still survive and move forward. The chemistry between them is 🔥🔥🔥 and I thought it had the best, hottest hate smex scenes I've ever read. If you're looking for an intense read that will leave you both emotionally spent, but well satisfied - Contempt is definitely what you need!
⛔️ My bookshelves can sometimes contain spoilers
April 25, 2023
ALL MY REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND ON MY BLOG: ABSTRACT BOOKS
Star Rating : 4 / 5 Stars
POV : Dual
Cliffhanger : None
Hero : Madden
Heroine : Bianca
Pace of the story : Moderate
Angst Rating : 5/10
Heat Rating : 5/10
Plot Summary :
Bianca was the one girl who saw Madden beyond the angry broken boy he was. She was his person. She was his whole world until one day she was taken from him. He lost her and lost himself in the process. Now years later , the loss and pain still rings in him until he finds out that it was a lie. Bianca is still alive and doing well.
She broke him beyond measure when she played with his heart but this time it was his turn to break her. He would make her feel much more pain than she ever felt as it was him who had the power this time .
Overall Opinion :
Ashleigh always delivers the perfect amount of angst and steam In her books but there is another primary reason I read her books. It's because of her heroe lmao 🤣 they are always the hottest , most tortured souls on the planet. I absolutely love them all!
Madden and Bianca have a tale full of love and hate. Well it's actually one in a lifetime love that turned into bitter hate due to lies . Both the characters are amazing and I absolutely loved the storyline. However it was Madden whose chapters I looked forward to. I was rushing to know what actually happened but there was just something about the way his chapters are written .
The mystery is good as well however it was not as dark. This one is more between dark and contemporary romance but I absolutely loved it! It stayed with me long after I turned the last page and that was the best part.
Definitely recommending this one to all the dark romance loving people out there!
Website | Bookstagram | Facebook Page | NewsletterMay 5, 2023
not a fan of this one for multiple reasons
The flashbacks were tedious and throughout entire book. Like up into high 80 percentile.
The side characters added nothing. Zoe the little girl he ends up raising towards end of book? Why?
It was awkward.
The strange plot twists were not written well.
The fmc was kinda not there for the story.
The mmc was a wimpy weak idiot. And the focus was mostly on him ughhhhhh.
The sex wasn’t written well so I didn’t even have that to be interested in.
Why did I read the entire 400+ book? I mean I was bored but that bored?
I’ll think twice before I read another by AZ. 😒
The flashbacks were tedious and throughout entire book. Like up into high 80 percentile.
The side characters added nothing. Zoe the little girl he ends up raising towards end of book? Why?
It was awkward.
The strange plot twists were not written well.
The fmc was kinda not there for the story.
The mmc was a wimpy weak idiot. And the focus was mostly on him ughhhhhh.
The sex wasn’t written well so I didn’t even have that to be interested in.
Why did I read the entire 400+ book? I mean I was bored but that bored?
I’ll think twice before I read another by AZ. 😒
April 12, 2023
"Contempt" by A. Zavarelli is a gripping and intense dark romance novel that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
The story follows the journey of Bianca and Kodiak, two individuals who are drawn to each other despite their troubled pasts and dangerous present circumstances.
The author seamlessly alternates between past and present scenes, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the events that have shaped their lives. The result is a story that is both complex and deeply moving.
Another strength of the novel is the author's ability to create a vivid and immersive setting. The author doesn't shy away from the darker elements of this world,especially in the beginning when Bianca and Kodiak are “reunited”. I loved the connection between Bianca and Kodiak, they are two star crossed souls meant to be together even when life and family members have other plans. I honestly was grossed out by his brother’s behaviour and while I’m a huge fan of thrillers and am used to these disturbing settings, I really didn’t think he was so vile. But it all makes sense in the big picture.
Overall, "Contempt" is a well-written and engaging dark romance novel that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre. While the story does contain some difficult themes and subject matter, the emotional payoff is more than worth it. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a thrilling and intense romance novel
4.5 stars
Arc team review
The story follows the journey of Bianca and Kodiak, two individuals who are drawn to each other despite their troubled pasts and dangerous present circumstances.
The author seamlessly alternates between past and present scenes, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and the events that have shaped their lives. The result is a story that is both complex and deeply moving.
Another strength of the novel is the author's ability to create a vivid and immersive setting. The author doesn't shy away from the darker elements of this world,especially in the beginning when Bianca and Kodiak are “reunited”. I loved the connection between Bianca and Kodiak, they are two star crossed souls meant to be together even when life and family members have other plans. I honestly was grossed out by his brother’s behaviour and while I’m a huge fan of thrillers and am used to these disturbing settings, I really didn’t think he was so vile. But it all makes sense in the big picture.
Overall, "Contempt" is a well-written and engaging dark romance novel that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre. While the story does contain some difficult themes and subject matter, the emotional payoff is more than worth it. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a thrilling and intense romance novel
4.5 stars
Arc team review
May 9, 2023
5+ Stars!
Amazing! This book was crazy good.
More to follow...
Amazing! This book was crazy good.
More to follow...
May 7, 2023
maybe 2.5
I’m really having a hard time rating this book. I have read and loved almost every book that this author has written and I absolutely loved the first two books of this series. But while I was reading this … all I felt was anger towards Madden and I really just wanted Bianca as far away from him as possible in both the past and present. She deserved so much better than what he ever gave her.
This book is told half in the past and half in the present alternating ever other chapter. I hated the way he treated her in the past chapters, and I hated the way he treated her in the present chapters. When the truth comes out, I felt he needed to be on his knees begging forgiveness for ever doubting her and he never really does. He feels bad—but that was not nearly good enough.
One thing that really bothered me though was that Madden showed zero common sense when he found her. Instead of being relieved that the love of his life was still alive, he was enraged because he thinks she hung him out to dry for his brother’s murder. He doesn’t believe that she has amnesia. But when he finds her, she’s literally starving and living on the streets for the past five years. She’s barely recognizable because she’s so malnourished. It’s not like she was out there this whole time living her best life. But all Madden cared about was how he felt he was wronged. It definitely made me feel like he never cared about her when didn’t give a single cr@p about the horrid state she was in.
Also— when she loses her memory AGAIN towards the end —I was just over it. From that point there was still over 100 pages to go and it just dragged. I did not find the end satisfying at all.
I’m really having a hard time rating this book. I have read and loved almost every book that this author has written and I absolutely loved the first two books of this series. But while I was reading this … all I felt was anger towards Madden and I really just wanted Bianca as far away from him as possible in both the past and present. She deserved so much better than what he ever gave her.
This book is told half in the past and half in the present alternating ever other chapter. I hated the way he treated her in the past chapters, and I hated the way he treated her in the present chapters. When the truth comes out, I felt he needed to be on his knees begging forgiveness for ever doubting her and he never really does. He feels bad—but that was not nearly good enough.
One thing that really bothered me though was that Madden showed zero common sense when he found her. Instead of being relieved that the love of his life was still alive, he was enraged because he thinks she hung him out to dry for his brother’s murder. He doesn’t believe that she has amnesia. But when he finds her, she’s literally starving and living on the streets for the past five years. She’s barely recognizable because she’s so malnourished. It’s not like she was out there this whole time living her best life. But all Madden cared about was how he felt he was wronged. It definitely made me feel like he never cared about her when didn’t give a single cr@p about the horrid state she was in.
Also— when she loses her memory AGAIN towards the end —I was just over it. From that point there was still over 100 pages to go and it just dragged. I did not find the end satisfying at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2023
Madden “Kodiak” Keller was once a rock star but now is a hardened man in an MC. When old ghosts start reappearing he thinks he can finally get some answers to a mystery he can’t solve. When someone he thought was gone for good suddenly appears it changes everything he thought he knew. This is told from both past and present to understand what happened between Bianca aka Lyric and Madden. A slow burn mystery with many twists set within the dangerous MC world. This puzzle slowly unravels piece by piece until you finally understand what is happening. I will admit it was a little slow to start for me but once I got into it I could not put this down! A twisted dark romance that keeps you guessing. Can two damaged souls truly find solace in each other? Be prepared as this is a long book so get some snacks and get comfy. Told in dual POV
April 25, 2023
Contempt is the third book in the Sin City Salvation series by A. Zavarelli, featuring a dark romantic suspense story told in multiple POVs. Madden was the bad boy outcast that never should have entered her orbit, and Bianca was the good girl who couldn’t stay away. Their hearts wanted each other, but the world can be a cruel place. Fate had other plans. Her death derailed his entire life. Then a glimpse of a waif of a girl changes everything. Could it really be her? Will Madden finally find the truth to the mystery that has haunted him for 5 years, and what does it mean for them?
Wow! This book was intense— a total mind-bender with layered suspense, multiple twists, tons of angst, drama, action, and flashbacks. To be honest, the flashbacks wore on me a bit. I would get into a groove, totally sucked into the moment, and it would abruptly jump back to the past again or return to the present, disrupting the flow. However, the characters and the story were amazing in their originality, authentic emotions, and just the rawness of all of it. I’m emotionally drained from all the things this book made me feel, some of it downright painful.😭 Madden is the kind of broken alpha hero I love to root for, and Bianca turned out to be one of the most complex, heartbreaking, and interesting characters I’ve read in a long time. The chemistry between the two of them was off the hotness scale completely!🔥🔥🔥🔥 I love these dark, angsty, tragic suspense stories, but I have to space them out, because of the emotional toll they take on me. While this one felt a bit long, it was well worth it, and I look forward to checking out more books by this author!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
#ContemporaryRomance #darkromance #romanticsuspense #AdultRomance #AlphaHero #Angsty #Amnesia #badboygoodgirl #BandofBrothers #BoyObsessed #FirstLove #ForbiddenLove #ForcedProximity #GrumpySunshine #Kidnapped #MCBiker #MentalIllness #militaryromance #OppositesAttract #Redemption #RockstarRomance #StarCrossedLovers #SecretRomance #ReunitedLovers #TorturedLead #SecondChance #ARCreview #bookreview #bookrecs
Wow! This book was intense— a total mind-bender with layered suspense, multiple twists, tons of angst, drama, action, and flashbacks. To be honest, the flashbacks wore on me a bit. I would get into a groove, totally sucked into the moment, and it would abruptly jump back to the past again or return to the present, disrupting the flow. However, the characters and the story were amazing in their originality, authentic emotions, and just the rawness of all of it. I’m emotionally drained from all the things this book made me feel, some of it downright painful.😭 Madden is the kind of broken alpha hero I love to root for, and Bianca turned out to be one of the most complex, heartbreaking, and interesting characters I’ve read in a long time. The chemistry between the two of them was off the hotness scale completely!🔥🔥🔥🔥 I love these dark, angsty, tragic suspense stories, but I have to space them out, because of the emotional toll they take on me. While this one felt a bit long, it was well worth it, and I look forward to checking out more books by this author!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
#ContemporaryRomance #darkromance #romanticsuspense #AdultRomance #AlphaHero #Angsty #Amnesia #badboygoodgirl #BandofBrothers #BoyObsessed #FirstLove #ForbiddenLove #ForcedProximity #GrumpySunshine #Kidnapped #MCBiker #MentalIllness #militaryromance #OppositesAttract #Redemption #RockstarRomance #StarCrossedLovers #SecretRomance #ReunitedLovers #TorturedLead #SecondChance #ARCreview #bookreview #bookrecs
April 26, 2023
This book literally has it all:
🎸forbidden love
🎸young love
🎸second chance
🎸kidnapping
🎸rockstar
🎸military
🎸motorcycle band of brothers
🎸amnesia
🎸abuse
🎸addiction
This book had so many tropes it honestly could’ve been split into multiple books. But even though there was so much going on, it was easy to follow and I thought the writing was well done.
I felt for Madden throughout the entire book. His emotions were so raw and heartbreaking and I just wanted to squeeze him! #peaches4ever
Also, there’s spice in nearly every chapter.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Valentine PR for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
🎸forbidden love
🎸young love
🎸second chance
🎸kidnapping
🎸rockstar
🎸military
🎸motorcycle band of brothers
🎸amnesia
🎸abuse
🎸addiction
This book had so many tropes it honestly could’ve been split into multiple books. But even though there was so much going on, it was easy to follow and I thought the writing was well done.
I felt for Madden throughout the entire book. His emotions were so raw and heartbreaking and I just wanted to squeeze him! #peaches4ever
Also, there’s spice in nearly every chapter.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you Valentine PR for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
May 6, 2023
I usually like everything A. Zav writes, but I didn’t really connect with any of the characters. I didn’t care for the story either. I skimmed most of the first 30% of the book because I was bored and while it picked up around 50%, the whole military piece/background added in was just a lot and unnecessary. The back and forth between Bianca and Kodak was tiresome. Lots of drama that I didn’t care about. Too many characters.
The story was well-written and it wasn’t all bad…just okay…so that garnered 3 stars.
The story was well-written and it wasn’t all bad…just okay…so that garnered 3 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 17, 2023
EPIC! That’s about the best word I can use to sum this book up…!
Every emotion was felt as I devoured this story. Madden had my heart from the very first page. He is everything in this story and so much more.
A Zavarelli has taken her time and crafted the most intricate story, with wonderful patience she has penned an amazingly twisted plot. One that opens up gradually as we are drip fed a story that could not be guessed, with a varied and wonderful cast of characters.
The heartbreak, the humour, the heat…..oh my goodness this book had me in tears as my heart broke for Madden and his struggles, his resilience and his strength.
Then we have Bianca, what an amazingly complicated female character she is…with layer after layer of secrets and hidden truths.
The author has a wonderful knack of teasing you and making you question everyone’s loyalty and integrity while still ensuring that you fall completely and utterly for the main characters and their love story.
An absolute must read!
Every emotion was felt as I devoured this story. Madden had my heart from the very first page. He is everything in this story and so much more.
A Zavarelli has taken her time and crafted the most intricate story, with wonderful patience she has penned an amazingly twisted plot. One that opens up gradually as we are drip fed a story that could not be guessed, with a varied and wonderful cast of characters.
The heartbreak, the humour, the heat…..oh my goodness this book had me in tears as my heart broke for Madden and his struggles, his resilience and his strength.
Then we have Bianca, what an amazingly complicated female character she is…with layer after layer of secrets and hidden truths.
The author has a wonderful knack of teasing you and making you question everyone’s loyalty and integrity while still ensuring that you fall completely and utterly for the main characters and their love story.
An absolute must read!
Read
May 23, 2023This was just underwhelming. I wanted to like it but I guess I don’t like the amnesia trope. Also why was it wayyy to scattered
April 27, 2023
What an addictively angsty and heart-wrenchingly intense return to the Sin City world! Contempt is a twisting, menacingly intriguing, raw, and powerfully moving story of heartbreak and second chances, mistakes and redemption, trauma and healing. A. Zavarelli delivers a story that is somehow tragic yet hopeful, devastating yet restorative, heartbreakingly heart-healing. Contempt is a powerhouse of an emotional journey, immersively rich and thoughtfully penned.
A Zavarelli never fails to create a story that captures me completely- and from the very first, I knew Madden and Bianca’s story would be a showstopper. Theirs is a story that hasn’t ever quite been their own, a story of past and present, one plagued with dubious circumstances, guilt, secrets, misplaced blame, and so much pain. An epic, star crossed love story that spans more than ages, it’s a story that extends beyond the breaking point of the human heart…and the human mind. This is not an easy love story- far from it. It’s heavy, hopeless at times, tragic and brutally raw. The tension, the challenges, the heartbreak is so HEADY that these two get consumed and lost in it- multiple times. But it is also just so achingly beautiful- how two clear soulmates somehow can find their way back to each other despite the most devastating of journeys. These two battle SO Much to be together- more than just memory, they battle each other., they battle destiny and time, and I was so enamored with every bittersweet and poignant moment.
This is by far one of the most emotionally rich love stories I’ve read from A. Zavarelli- Bianca and Madden’s path to each other is quite Herculean. Told in vignettes of the past and present, she seamlessly infuses a love story that starts innocent and through an epic twist of fates turns so very complicated with a present day love story that is broken and battered, rife with anger and misunderstanding, hurt and contempt. A.Z. brilliantly introduces many twists and misdirections- which not only add layers to an already layered and deeply dimensional story but also introduces a clever twinge of unreliable narration. These characters' conceptions of both themselves and the past…as well as the present…are not aligned, not only creating great romantic tension but also keeping us as readers just on the edge of truth and reality- we’re piecing together the puzzle pieces as much as our characters, we’re trying to wade through all of the heavy emotion and calcified hurt to find what is true.
Ultimately, I really LOVED this story- especially the second half. A. Zavarelli deftly weaves romantic suspense with a complicated plot with utterly captivating character chemistry. Neither the romance nor the mystery feel out of proportion or at odds- they seamlessly blend for an emotionally immersive experience, both elements juxtaposed in ways that heighten the other. The chemistry is some of the best I’ve read - rich, complicated, soulful and combustible. And she builds so many dimensions as we see their chemistry over time and as it evolves in the present- so many nuances that make this such a character rich story. Their relationship is somehow both toxic and healing, restorative and destructive all at once. And I loved them together so much. The angst was HEAVY, the mutual longing thick. This is truly a really brilliantly told tale- and it would be a perfect first star if not for times that I felt the pacing pulled me away. Some of that is just the narrative construct- the ping pong between past and present with shorter pithy chapters at times can feel like the the story is more static in both tenses, but the second half was perfection, even with that dynamic, so I think it might have just been the first part moving a bit too slow for me- perhaps taking too long to give me some crumbs to nibble on. But once the story gains full momentum, I was feeling and reeling- and certainly, it’s a story that still is dwelling in my heart and mind days after. The emotional is palpable and clings, the love story epic, and the themes meaningful. Love can win, and true love holds on even when it feels hopeless. Even when it feels like it’s gone. Even when it feels tainted with contempt and pain and loss. Love will find a way.
4.5 Stars
A Zavarelli never fails to create a story that captures me completely- and from the very first, I knew Madden and Bianca’s story would be a showstopper. Theirs is a story that hasn’t ever quite been their own, a story of past and present, one plagued with dubious circumstances, guilt, secrets, misplaced blame, and so much pain. An epic, star crossed love story that spans more than ages, it’s a story that extends beyond the breaking point of the human heart…and the human mind. This is not an easy love story- far from it. It’s heavy, hopeless at times, tragic and brutally raw. The tension, the challenges, the heartbreak is so HEADY that these two get consumed and lost in it- multiple times. But it is also just so achingly beautiful- how two clear soulmates somehow can find their way back to each other despite the most devastating of journeys. These two battle SO Much to be together- more than just memory, they battle each other., they battle destiny and time, and I was so enamored with every bittersweet and poignant moment.
This is by far one of the most emotionally rich love stories I’ve read from A. Zavarelli- Bianca and Madden’s path to each other is quite Herculean. Told in vignettes of the past and present, she seamlessly infuses a love story that starts innocent and through an epic twist of fates turns so very complicated with a present day love story that is broken and battered, rife with anger and misunderstanding, hurt and contempt. A.Z. brilliantly introduces many twists and misdirections- which not only add layers to an already layered and deeply dimensional story but also introduces a clever twinge of unreliable narration. These characters' conceptions of both themselves and the past…as well as the present…are not aligned, not only creating great romantic tension but also keeping us as readers just on the edge of truth and reality- we’re piecing together the puzzle pieces as much as our characters, we’re trying to wade through all of the heavy emotion and calcified hurt to find what is true.
Ultimately, I really LOVED this story- especially the second half. A. Zavarelli deftly weaves romantic suspense with a complicated plot with utterly captivating character chemistry. Neither the romance nor the mystery feel out of proportion or at odds- they seamlessly blend for an emotionally immersive experience, both elements juxtaposed in ways that heighten the other. The chemistry is some of the best I’ve read - rich, complicated, soulful and combustible. And she builds so many dimensions as we see their chemistry over time and as it evolves in the present- so many nuances that make this such a character rich story. Their relationship is somehow both toxic and healing, restorative and destructive all at once. And I loved them together so much. The angst was HEAVY, the mutual longing thick. This is truly a really brilliantly told tale- and it would be a perfect first star if not for times that I felt the pacing pulled me away. Some of that is just the narrative construct- the ping pong between past and present with shorter pithy chapters at times can feel like the the story is more static in both tenses, but the second half was perfection, even with that dynamic, so I think it might have just been the first part moving a bit too slow for me- perhaps taking too long to give me some crumbs to nibble on. But once the story gains full momentum, I was feeling and reeling- and certainly, it’s a story that still is dwelling in my heart and mind days after. The emotional is palpable and clings, the love story epic, and the themes meaningful. Love can win, and true love holds on even when it feels hopeless. Even when it feels like it’s gone. Even when it feels tainted with contempt and pain and loss. Love will find a way.
4.5 Stars
May 31, 2023
An epically intense and emotionally draining angst-driven dark romance with incredible character and story development that will capture you from the very beginning, but you might be hard pressed to read this one in one swoop. I forced myself to put this book down on several occasions because the intensity of the story needed to settle in my head, and I honestly just needed a break. Please don’t take that statement in any negative way because it actually is quite the opposite. This wasn’t a surface story at any point. Every single plot-point and circumstance was deeply expanded and developed in such a way that I felt the story deep in my bones. That’s why I had to give myself a break.
I’m not new to the power of Zavarelli’s words and her wizardry when it comes to developing suspenseful and dark romance journeys, but this felt more to me. I don’t exactly know how it was more (which I know sounds ridiculous), I just know that it was. It was so intricately woven between the past and the present to reveal the reason today is the way that it is that I just felt in awe while reading. My brain was trying to process but it couldn’t keep up with the twists and turns and the horrific circumstances from the past and the explosive circumstances of the present. The entire story felt like a ticking timebomb for me, and it was both exhilarating and exhausting (in the best possible way)!
You know the saying ”Love conquers all” … well, this story is going to explain it to you in explicit detail! Your heart is going to hurt badly at some points, and it will soar at others. You’ll be frustrated and exhausted and possibly a little bit traumatized at times. In the end, you are going to root for these two like your life depends on it because they deserve it. Go forth and be amazed!
I’m not new to the power of Zavarelli’s words and her wizardry when it comes to developing suspenseful and dark romance journeys, but this felt more to me. I don’t exactly know how it was more (which I know sounds ridiculous), I just know that it was. It was so intricately woven between the past and the present to reveal the reason today is the way that it is that I just felt in awe while reading. My brain was trying to process but it couldn’t keep up with the twists and turns and the horrific circumstances from the past and the explosive circumstances of the present. The entire story felt like a ticking timebomb for me, and it was both exhilarating and exhausting (in the best possible way)!
You know the saying ”Love conquers all” … well, this story is going to explain it to you in explicit detail! Your heart is going to hurt badly at some points, and it will soar at others. You’ll be frustrated and exhausted and possibly a little bit traumatized at times. In the end, you are going to root for these two like your life depends on it because they deserve it. Go forth and be amazed!
April 6, 2023
I’m unbelievably blown away . This book is outstanding.
Madden and Bianca’s story took over my heart and soul….and my time , I literally couldn’t put my kindle down , I had to read it in one sitting , I was completely hooked .
Madden and Bianca have suffered so much in their lives , especially Bianca . Lied to , manipulated, & in Bianca’s case abused , physically and mentally.
Lies hurt , especially when they’ve come from your family .
This book is a must read
Madden and Bianca’s story took over my heart and soul….and my time , I literally couldn’t put my kindle down , I had to read it in one sitting , I was completely hooked .
Madden and Bianca have suffered so much in their lives , especially Bianca . Lied to , manipulated, & in Bianca’s case abused , physically and mentally.
Lies hurt , especially when they’ve come from your family .
This book is a must read
June 16, 2023
Hmmmm....
letzz talk about this book coz ........what the heck!!!
I like the plotline coz who doesn't like romance and suspense, so without any spoiler i could say that storyline was good and so was the hero - madden..... these are the only reason i gave this book two stars otherwise the heroine here just ruined this book.
okay...that being said the whole book was where the heroine chose to be with someone else i mean her situation dictated her to be in and i respected that but manipulating, controlling, ruining the life of guy who loves her and whom she claims to love ...............NOT COOL OKAY!!
She didn't let go any of her partners and wanted to hold on to both, time and time again she messaged, call and interfered in the life of hero who was determined that no matter what he will concentrate on career and move on ..........but no the heroine dragged him into her bullshit too...............and that was a total bitch move you guyss.
i don't want to read a story where the characters don't stick to their decision, i mean even if you love him let him go and be happy ............just coz you are not happy doesn't mean everyone around you should be with you............hyprocrite lady!!!!!!!!!!!!
double standards
uhhh not my type you know.
yess so now you know why i gave2 stars ............still if you want to read this book ......go ahead hate the heroine cause she deserves it.
letzz talk about this book coz ........what the heck!!!
I like the plotline coz who doesn't like romance and suspense, so without any spoiler i could say that storyline was good and so was the hero - madden..... these are the only reason i gave this book two stars otherwise the heroine here just ruined this book.
okay...that being said the whole book was where the heroine chose to be with someone else i mean her situation dictated her to be in and i respected that but manipulating, controlling, ruining the life of guy who loves her and whom she claims to love ...............NOT COOL OKAY!!
She didn't let go any of her partners and wanted to hold on to both, time and time again she messaged, call and interfered in the life of hero who was determined that no matter what he will concentrate on career and move on ..........but no the heroine dragged him into her bullshit too...............and that was a total bitch move you guyss.
i don't want to read a story where the characters don't stick to their decision, i mean even if you love him let him go and be happy ............just coz you are not happy doesn't mean everyone around you should be with you............hyprocrite lady!!!!!!!!!!!!
double standards
uhhh not my type you know.
yess so now you know why i gave2 stars ............still if you want to read this book ......go ahead hate the heroine cause she deserves it.
July 31, 2023
Great idea, I like the theme with amnesia, but the whole story was a pain. I couldn't even finish reading the book.
The chapters alternate with the past, all the time. It's definitely nice to know about the past, but after a few chapters, I started to get bored of going back to the past.
Overall, I think the story could have been shortened considerably and it would have been much better.
The chapters alternate with the past, all the time. It's definitely nice to know about the past, but after a few chapters, I started to get bored of going back to the past.
Overall, I think the story could have been shortened considerably and it would have been much better.
April 27, 2023
While writing Contempt, A. Zavarelli decided that making the hero a brooding biker is not enough. So she made him a tortured musician and a war veteran with post traumatic issues and a broken alpha with unrequited love. And then she probably thought that even all that isn't enough to torture our poor hearts. So she put a fierce heroine with the brightest and sweetest heart and made her go through the deepest darkest emotional hell. Wait, she isn’t done! She also decided to make them suffer through Years after years of angst, heartbreak, pain, anger, guilt, mind games ..before she thought it's enough for an epic love story. I am not sure I will ever recover from this raw and gritty tale of love, loss and redemption.
I don't want to give you a synopsis as I strongly suggest to go in blind but I would definitely suggest to look at some trigger warnings like severe mental health issues, abuse, addiction, trauma, cheating and graphic violence.
Madden aka Kodiak has found the woman he has been searching for years now. But Lyric doesn't remember anything about their past. She doesn't remember that she is Bianca, who is considered murdered and who is his dead brother’s fiance and who is also his soulmate. This story is designed to cause maximum damage to your heart. It spreads across years where Madden and Biance fought for their heart without any silver lining. The temporary happiness and pleasure was always destroyed by something. Years of pain have stolen away pieces of their hearts. But now is the time to heal..to redeem..to have their happily ever after. I have hardly read any hero who loves like Madden. And we were taken to a journey from the angry volatile lost teenager to the traumatized soldier to the lost musician to the bada&& alpha biker. Bianca aka Lyric had a lot of evolution too. And she is fragile but strongest. If any couple deserves an epic happily ever after, that would be Biance and Madden.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
I don't want to give you a synopsis as I strongly suggest to go in blind but I would definitely suggest to look at some trigger warnings like severe mental health issues, abuse, addiction, trauma, cheating and graphic violence.
Madden aka Kodiak has found the woman he has been searching for years now. But Lyric doesn't remember anything about their past. She doesn't remember that she is Bianca, who is considered murdered and who is his dead brother’s fiance and who is also his soulmate. This story is designed to cause maximum damage to your heart. It spreads across years where Madden and Biance fought for their heart without any silver lining. The temporary happiness and pleasure was always destroyed by something. Years of pain have stolen away pieces of their hearts. But now is the time to heal..to redeem..to have their happily ever after. I have hardly read any hero who loves like Madden. And we were taken to a journey from the angry volatile lost teenager to the traumatized soldier to the lost musician to the bada&& alpha biker. Bianca aka Lyric had a lot of evolution too. And she is fragile but strongest. If any couple deserves an epic happily ever after, that would be Biance and Madden.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
April 25, 2023
“I’m not too late?” she cries. “Baby.” I pull her wet hair back and stare into the eyes that haunt my dreams every night. “You could never be too late. You told me I was yours when we were seventeen. I’m still yours. I’ll always be yours.”
Wow. Wow wow wow. I am exhausted. This book was a JOURNEY. A very long, insane, painful, yet passionate and fascinating trek. I feel like my heart has been put through the wringer. Talk about angst GALORE! I can’t tell you the last time I read a book with this much heart-wrenching trauma and pain. This book will really take it out of you. Bring tissues!
In this novel, we witness the ups and downs of a gut-wrenching second chance romance between Bianca and Madden. They first meet when they are in high school but due to circumstances outside of their control, they can’t be together. Thus begins a star-crossed, forbidden romance that will simultaneously keep you flipping pages as fast as you can while also wanting to rip your hair out. There is only so much I can include in this review to avoid spoilers, but this book has a ton of twists. Our author did a masterful job of writing a riveting storyline with unpredictable characters. I truthfully wasn’t sure where we were headed at any point during this book. Our story is told in both the past and present tense, each chapter switching back and forth. It was seamless! I never felt lost and the bits of past fit perfectly in with what we needed to know for the present. It was brilliantly executed!
I can’t forget to mention our cast of characters. Our hero Madden/Kodiak was definitely my favorite. My heart bled for him and his tortured past. This man deserves the world. Our heroine Bianca was an even more complex character, but just as easy to love. Both of these people experienced immense trauma in their lives yet they still found solace and safety in each other. Their romance was a beautiful thing to read and A. Zavarelli did a fantastic job with this couple! 4.5 stars!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Dark romance
Second chance
Forbidden romance
Rockstar romance
Captor/captive
Romantic suspense
Angst GALORE
⚠️TW: there are so many triggers in this book, please proceed with caution. At this time I can’t list them as they would be considered spoilers, but check back after the release date for an updated list!
Wow. Wow wow wow. I am exhausted. This book was a JOURNEY. A very long, insane, painful, yet passionate and fascinating trek. I feel like my heart has been put through the wringer. Talk about angst GALORE! I can’t tell you the last time I read a book with this much heart-wrenching trauma and pain. This book will really take it out of you. Bring tissues!
In this novel, we witness the ups and downs of a gut-wrenching second chance romance between Bianca and Madden. They first meet when they are in high school but due to circumstances outside of their control, they can’t be together. Thus begins a star-crossed, forbidden romance that will simultaneously keep you flipping pages as fast as you can while also wanting to rip your hair out. There is only so much I can include in this review to avoid spoilers, but this book has a ton of twists. Our author did a masterful job of writing a riveting storyline with unpredictable characters. I truthfully wasn’t sure where we were headed at any point during this book. Our story is told in both the past and present tense, each chapter switching back and forth. It was seamless! I never felt lost and the bits of past fit perfectly in with what we needed to know for the present. It was brilliantly executed!
I can’t forget to mention our cast of characters. Our hero Madden/Kodiak was definitely my favorite. My heart bled for him and his tortured past. This man deserves the world. Our heroine Bianca was an even more complex character, but just as easy to love. Both of these people experienced immense trauma in their lives yet they still found solace and safety in each other. Their romance was a beautiful thing to read and A. Zavarelli did a fantastic job with this couple! 4.5 stars!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
Dark romance
Second chance
Forbidden romance
Rockstar romance
Captor/captive
Romantic suspense
Angst GALORE
⚠️TW: there are so many triggers in this book, please proceed with caution. At this time I can’t list them as they would be considered spoilers, but check back after the release date for an updated list!
May 21, 2023
Although I have read quite a few books from Miss Zavarelli, I have reached the conclusion, she just doesn't write a story, she reaches in your chest and rips your heart out!!!! And she does it extremely well!!!
I didn't know who to feel the most sorry for - Bianca or Madden. Madden lost. He wouldn't believe anything Bianca said, but that psychopath, Adam, as well as Bianca's sleazy father; those two deceivers he believed!
The identity of the real killer was mind blowing and I cried for poor Bianca and how much she suffered.
Nevertheless, the constant flashbacks were confusing and annoying! I mean Adam was still brutalizing women when he was already dead 150 pages ago! There had to be a better way to handle that.
April 25, 2023
Contempt is a dark romance novel that tells the story of Bianca and Madden, two people who are drawn to each other but are separated by circumstances over many years.
The story is told from both Bianca and Madden's perspectives, and it alternates between the past and the present. The past chapters tell the story of how Bianca and Madden met and fell in love, while the present chapters tell the story of their reunion five years later and the events that transpire.
The book is full of angst, passion, and forbidden love. It is a slow-burn romance that will keep you hooked until the very end. If you are a fan of dark romance novels, then you will definitely enjoy this book.
Here are some of the things that I loved about the book:
* I thought the plot was engaging and suspenseful.
* I loved the way that the author explored the themes of forbidden love, redemption, and second chances.
* I was impressed by the way that the author developed the characters and their relationships.
* I thought that the book was very well-written and emotionally powerful.
The story is told from both Bianca and Madden's perspectives, and it alternates between the past and the present. The past chapters tell the story of how Bianca and Madden met and fell in love, while the present chapters tell the story of their reunion five years later and the events that transpire.
The book is full of angst, passion, and forbidden love. It is a slow-burn romance that will keep you hooked until the very end. If you are a fan of dark romance novels, then you will definitely enjoy this book.
Here are some of the things that I loved about the book:
* I thought the plot was engaging and suspenseful.
* I loved the way that the author explored the themes of forbidden love, redemption, and second chances.
* I was impressed by the way that the author developed the characters and their relationships.
* I thought that the book was very well-written and emotionally powerful.
April 27, 2023
Most of you romance readers know that if it’s written by A. Zavarelli, then it is one hundred percent worthy of reading, and read I did! Contempt is a heartfelt second-chance romance that will break you into pieces just so it can put you back together better than before. I have cried my eyes out for the broken boy and fell for him hard for his immense heart ❤️. Madden (mine!) and Bianca’s story is tragic, soulful and incredibly raw. Once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down. The suspense, the questions, the mystery were so on point and inviting that I couldn’t breathe till I’ve got my answers. Contempt is definitely going to my re-read shelf!
April 25, 2023
Contempt is the third book in the Sin City Salvation series by A. Zavarelli, and IT WAS EVERYTHING!!! This is actually the first book I've ever read by this author, but I have several of her books in my library, and I can't wait to read them! I am in love! She is an absolutely amazing writer and storyteller!
Madden (aka Kodiak) and Bianca (aka Lyric) were so amazing together! The whole story was just so good! I have read some excellent books so far this year, but this one has got to be my new favorite! There were so many twists and turns, it made my head spin, but it also made it really hard to put it down! Gahhh, I can't even express how much I loved it, and there aren't enough stars in the universe to rate this one! All I can say is, READ THIS BOOK! Highly recommended with ALL THE STARS!
Madden (aka Kodiak) and Bianca (aka Lyric) were so amazing together! The whole story was just so good! I have read some excellent books so far this year, but this one has got to be my new favorite! There were so many twists and turns, it made my head spin, but it also made it really hard to put it down! Gahhh, I can't even express how much I loved it, and there aren't enough stars in the universe to rate this one! All I can say is, READ THIS BOOK! Highly recommended with ALL THE STARS!
May 6, 2023
I didn't think I would have been as twisted up as I am after reading Madden and Bianca's story. There is such heartbreak over and over again. This story has so many twist and mouth dropping moments that I literally had to re-read just to make sure that really happened. This is the third book in the Sin series and I have loved them all but this one will stay with me. Thank you A for letting me go on this journey with you !!!!
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