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Ravens Hockey #2
Your Sharpest Edge
Sending him away broke my heart.
I guess fate thought we needed a second chance.
Anastasia Ilinya will do anything to keep her Olympic figure skating career alive—even leaving Russia for the US, and marrying a man she knows only by his explosive reputation. So when the abuse starts straight after “I do”, Anatasia knows she must endure. The solitary lifeline amidst the storm of her marriage is her husband’s teammate…
Alexsey Popov never expected to find anything, or anyone, as important to him as hockey–especially not the wife of his team captain. Yet, from the moment he meets Anastasia, he’s drawn to her. And the more they get to know one another the more he wants to protect her.
But Dimitri is volatile and possessive, and would never allow his wife to leave. How do you escape a man who’d rather see you dead than happy?
Your Sharpest Edge is book 2 in the Ravens Hockey series.
I guess fate thought we needed a second chance.
Anastasia Ilinya will do anything to keep her Olympic figure skating career alive—even leaving Russia for the US, and marrying a man she knows only by his explosive reputation. So when the abuse starts straight after “I do”, Anatasia knows she must endure. The solitary lifeline amidst the storm of her marriage is her husband’s teammate…
Alexsey Popov never expected to find anything, or anyone, as important to him as hockey–especially not the wife of his team captain. Yet, from the moment he meets Anastasia, he’s drawn to her. And the more they get to know one another the more he wants to protect her.
But Dimitri is volatile and possessive, and would never allow his wife to leave. How do you escape a man who’d rather see you dead than happy?
Your Sharpest Edge is book 2 in the Ravens Hockey series.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2025
44 people are currently reading
523 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 203 reviews
June 1, 2025
~arc review~ 💓📖✨🎉
4.5/5⭐️ 3.5/5🌶️
My goodness I don’t know if Vee has ever done my heart like THAT 🥺
I stayed up until 2:30 am reading the first 60% or so of this book because I could not put it down for a second without thinking about it.
Please take the TWs seriously (below). They play a large role in this book (especially the first two). And while books this heavy are not everyone’s cup of tea, I thought it was beautiful 💓
From the very start, I fell in love with our MMC. His kind heart & very obvious golden retriever energy radiated through the page like sunlight. And while he has a very nice dirty side seen towards the end of the book, his sweet & mindful personality stole the show.
I also loved our FMC who was resilient, strong, & fierce as hell. She has such a beautiful character arc from one piece to the next. I also enjoyed that the MMC aided her in her journey, but let her steer the ship.
All in all, this was beautiful and one of my personal favorites from Vee.
TW: Non-consensual sexual activity (marital/ spousal rape), domestic violence (physical, emotional, sexual, and neglectful; scenes depicted on-page), physical injury resulting from domestic violence, attempted kidnapping, abuser reappearing in the story, single parenting struggles, questioning sexuality, depictions of MFF sexual interaction (scene), group sexual scene, depiction of a sex party
4.5/5⭐️ 3.5/5🌶️
My goodness I don’t know if Vee has ever done my heart like THAT 🥺
I stayed up until 2:30 am reading the first 60% or so of this book because I could not put it down for a second without thinking about it.
Please take the TWs seriously (below). They play a large role in this book (especially the first two). And while books this heavy are not everyone’s cup of tea, I thought it was beautiful 💓
From the very start, I fell in love with our MMC. His kind heart & very obvious golden retriever energy radiated through the page like sunlight. And while he has a very nice dirty side seen towards the end of the book, his sweet & mindful personality stole the show.
I also loved our FMC who was resilient, strong, & fierce as hell. She has such a beautiful character arc from one piece to the next. I also enjoyed that the MMC aided her in her journey, but let her steer the ship.
All in all, this was beautiful and one of my personal favorites from Vee.
TW: Non-consensual sexual activity (marital/ spousal rape), domestic violence (physical, emotional, sexual, and neglectful; scenes depicted on-page), physical injury resulting from domestic violence, attempted kidnapping, abuser reappearing in the story, single parenting struggles, questioning sexuality, depictions of MFF sexual interaction (scene), group sexual scene, depiction of a sex party
May 17, 2025
It was such an amazing emotional read!
Anastasia goes through things no one ever should! Stassi becomes friends with one of the hockey players, Alex. Stassi and Alex’s friendship i think really helps her grow and realize what needs to happen in her life!
Alex is amazing and supportive of Stassi. their friendship has its rocky moments, but it really helps them build a strong connection later.
the spice, oh, the spice! 😏🥵
Vee the scene when Alex opened the door had me cackling 😂
"Yes, Malyshka. That is my good girl."🫠
Anastasia goes through things no one ever should! Stassi becomes friends with one of the hockey players, Alex. Stassi and Alex’s friendship i think really helps her grow and realize what needs to happen in her life!
Alex is amazing and supportive of Stassi. their friendship has its rocky moments, but it really helps them build a strong connection later.
the spice, oh, the spice! 😏🥵
Vee the scene when Alex opened the door had me cackling 😂
"Yes, Malyshka. That is my good girl."🫠
June 18, 2025
Book two in the Ravens hockey series. This book is set before the events in book one, which meant I knew their ending, but it's still enjoyable to see how they get there.
Anastasia is about to get married. She's an Olympic pairs skater who's honestly been pushed into marriage by her family. Wed to a hockey player who is my gosh just the worst. Like, I think he can't get any worse, and then he does.
One shining bright light in this new life is her husbands teammate. He becomes her best friend and they spend a lot of happy times together. She's honestly pretty innocent and young.
Alexey finds it hard to live by the line of friends. He really cares for her and supports her so much. Their paths become very complicated when her husband becomes even more of a monster.
But Alexey and Anastasia really have a lot of mountains to climb. She's married. But Alexey saves her in more ways than one.
Theres some deep issues in this book so check those out before.
Anastasia is about to get married. She's an Olympic pairs skater who's honestly been pushed into marriage by her family. Wed to a hockey player who is my gosh just the worst. Like, I think he can't get any worse, and then he does.
One shining bright light in this new life is her husbands teammate. He becomes her best friend and they spend a lot of happy times together. She's honestly pretty innocent and young.
Alexey finds it hard to live by the line of friends. He really cares for her and supports her so much. Their paths become very complicated when her husband becomes even more of a monster.
But Alexey and Anastasia really have a lot of mountains to climb. She's married. But Alexey saves her in more ways than one.
Theres some deep issues in this book so check those out before.
June 8, 2025
A solid 4 ⭐ for this one! If you're a reader that absolutely adored the trauma bonding in Still Beating by Jennifer Hartman, but you also devour hockey / sports romances like The Deal by Elle Kennedy and Mile High by Liz Tomforde, Your Sharpest Edge is probably a good one to put on your TBR list. 📚
⚠️ If you're particularly sensitive to topics such as Domestic violence, Sexual assault, Rape, Neglect, & Abuse, this may not be the read for you! There are graphic and explicit scenes depicting these events. You've been warned. ⚠️
I think I need to develop a shelf tag for trauma romance. Your Sharpest Edge by Vee Taylor would fit nicely in that category. Anastasia's character development, from timid immigrant to kick-a$$ mom and survivor, is more-than-commendable. I appreciate that Vee Taylor took her time writing this in a way that connected Anastasia to the reader. The progression is slow, hesitant, and explicitly traumatic, mimicking real-life DV/SA survivors and their children.
Alex, hats-off to you for coming through and being there when Anastasia needed someone the most! He didn't try to play hero; he just asked her what she needed from him, and he did it. 🥰 He is the MMC that gives us protective, soft, golden retriever vibes! He also brings out Anastiasia's sexy and explorative side in the bedroom. 🥵🌶️🥵🌶️ Those last few chapters were HOT!!!!
I think the only issue I had is the actual organization of the novel itself. It's set up in three big parts- Rookie year, Sophomore year, and Free agent. The first two parts takes place during Anastasia's haunting time in an arranged marriage, going from Olympic figure skater to traumatized and submissive housewife pretty quickly. The final part is her freedom, and her second chance with the one man who helped her through those difficult years- Alex. I think if the author had combined the three parts, perhaps using flashbacks during key points in Anastasia's recovery to establish comparative reasoning behind her thoughts, actions, and/or motivations, things would've been less frustrating for me- I struggled heavily in those first two parts because I desperately needed some relief from Anastaisa's abusive ex-husband. The few moments we get from Alex are good, but it's not enough. I took a very long break before continuing on with the third part and final part of the novel.
Overall, I want to thank the author for letting me review her latest work. I do love a good trauma / healing romance, as much as I love a dark and smutty read too 😘 ... and Your Sharpest Edge definitely delivers! 💖
⚠️ If you're particularly sensitive to topics such as Domestic violence, Sexual assault, Rape, Neglect, & Abuse, this may not be the read for you! There are graphic and explicit scenes depicting these events. You've been warned. ⚠️
I think I need to develop a shelf tag for trauma romance. Your Sharpest Edge by Vee Taylor would fit nicely in that category. Anastasia's character development, from timid immigrant to kick-a$$ mom and survivor, is more-than-commendable. I appreciate that Vee Taylor took her time writing this in a way that connected Anastasia to the reader. The progression is slow, hesitant, and explicitly traumatic, mimicking real-life DV/SA survivors and their children.
Alex, hats-off to you for coming through and being there when Anastasia needed someone the most! He didn't try to play hero; he just asked her what she needed from him, and he did it. 🥰 He is the MMC that gives us protective, soft, golden retriever vibes! He also brings out Anastiasia's sexy and explorative side in the bedroom. 🥵🌶️🥵🌶️ Those last few chapters were HOT!!!!
I think the only issue I had is the actual organization of the novel itself. It's set up in three big parts- Rookie year, Sophomore year, and Free agent. The first two parts takes place during Anastasia's haunting time in an arranged marriage, going from Olympic figure skater to traumatized and submissive housewife pretty quickly. The final part is her freedom, and her second chance with the one man who helped her through those difficult years- Alex. I think if the author had combined the three parts, perhaps using flashbacks during key points in Anastasia's recovery to establish comparative reasoning behind her thoughts, actions, and/or motivations, things would've been less frustrating for me- I struggled heavily in those first two parts because I desperately needed some relief from Anastaisa's abusive ex-husband. The few moments we get from Alex are good, but it's not enough. I took a very long break before continuing on with the third part and final part of the novel.
Overall, I want to thank the author for letting me review her latest work. I do love a good trauma / healing romance, as much as I love a dark and smutty read too 😘 ... and Your Sharpest Edge definitely delivers! 💖
June 17, 2025
ARC Review!
Wow! This book hit all the right spots. We have arranged marriage, DV survivor/warrior, ice skater falls for hockey player, second chances, friends to lovers, single mom, and one hell of a slow burn! Throw in a little slight exhibitionist kink and you have yourself a solid 4 stars! Vee Taylor knew how to heal all of us, including those that didn’t know they needed to be healed!
The love that Alex has for Anastasia is that kind of love that comes around only once in a lifetime. The way he quite literally saved her life, in more ways than one. And his adoration for Damien….oh my heart. Blood or not. That’s his son!
And Anastasia…..what a bad ass! The way she knew exactly what she needed to heal herself and find her peace! Pure perfection! She put her needs, and the needs of her son, above all else, while still allowing Alex to be there for her the whole way.
The 4 and a half year jump and the slow burn had me wanting to throw my Kindle, but man…it was 100% worth it! Those 4 and a half years were needed to bring them their HEA!
⚠️Check your triggers. I cannot stress this enough, because this book deals with some heavy topics, including DV and non consensual by a spouse.⚠️
This is the 2nd book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. I actually haven’t even read the 1st one yet, but plan to read it very soon!
Wow! This book hit all the right spots. We have arranged marriage, DV survivor/warrior, ice skater falls for hockey player, second chances, friends to lovers, single mom, and one hell of a slow burn! Throw in a little slight exhibitionist kink and you have yourself a solid 4 stars! Vee Taylor knew how to heal all of us, including those that didn’t know they needed to be healed!
The love that Alex has for Anastasia is that kind of love that comes around only once in a lifetime. The way he quite literally saved her life, in more ways than one. And his adoration for Damien….oh my heart. Blood or not. That’s his son!
And Anastasia…..what a bad ass! The way she knew exactly what she needed to heal herself and find her peace! Pure perfection! She put her needs, and the needs of her son, above all else, while still allowing Alex to be there for her the whole way.
The 4 and a half year jump and the slow burn had me wanting to throw my Kindle, but man…it was 100% worth it! Those 4 and a half years were needed to bring them their HEA!
⚠️Check your triggers. I cannot stress this enough, because this book deals with some heavy topics, including DV and non consensual by a spouse.⚠️
This is the 2nd book in the series, but can be read as a standalone. I actually haven’t even read the 1st one yet, but plan to read it very soon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
ARC Review!
4.5/5 ⭐️
Please, please, please read the trigger warnings before diving in! It is a heavy read and a roller coaster of emotions.
Having said that, I absolutely loved the MMC! His golden retriever energy, love and support throughout are the best. Watching Stassi grow and develop throughout the story was so empowering. I can’t say much more about her without giving too much away.
This was my first hockey romance and I will definitely be exploring others 😉
Thank you Vee Taylor for the opportunity to read your book. So glad I got it finished before it comes out tomorrow!!
4.5/5 ⭐️
Please, please, please read the trigger warnings before diving in! It is a heavy read and a roller coaster of emotions.
Having said that, I absolutely loved the MMC! His golden retriever energy, love and support throughout are the best. Watching Stassi grow and develop throughout the story was so empowering. I can’t say much more about her without giving too much away.
This was my first hockey romance and I will definitely be exploring others 😉
Thank you Vee Taylor for the opportunity to read your book. So glad I got it finished before it comes out tomorrow!!
June 10, 2025
Your Sharpest Edge is absolutely one of my top reads of 2025! THIS BOOK! My god. It really put me through the ringer. It is heartbreakingly beautiful and filled with so much friendship and love, along with some very dark on page descriptive themes. Please check TW if you have any known triggers.
💖Hockey romance
💖Friends to lovers
💖Second chance
💖Single mom
💖Bi-sexual awakening (one MFF scene)
💖So much angst
When Anastasia moves back to America, she is immediately put into an arranged marriage. A marriage that is supposed to benefit her career. But the only thing it does is completely ruin her life. Her husband, he doesn’t even deserve for me to say his name, is one of the worst people that I have ever read. He is genuinely a terrible person.
But in walks his teammate and their neighbor Alexsy, aka Alex. Alex and Anastasia form a beautiful friendship in a very dark world. He is her safe place in a life that has beaten her down. And things get worse before they get better for these two.
I don’t want to spoil too much, but this story is so devastating, but beautiful at the same time. Once again, there are some very dark themes and things that happen, but Alex is the epitome of a top tier book boyfriend, and he does everything in his power to keep our girl safe.
The second half of this book had me tearing up so hard. The friendships and love throughout really had my emotions on overload. I loved the main characters, but I also truly loved Dirks and Ledger. The things that happen in this book between the four of them really had me sobbing.
Aside from the heavy stuff in this book, the spice was spicy!! And my goodness, the MFF scene in this book. I will never forget it!!!
I am hoping that we get to see Dirks find his HEA in the future!
💖Hockey romance
💖Friends to lovers
💖Second chance
💖Single mom
💖Bi-sexual awakening (one MFF scene)
💖So much angst
When Anastasia moves back to America, she is immediately put into an arranged marriage. A marriage that is supposed to benefit her career. But the only thing it does is completely ruin her life. Her husband, he doesn’t even deserve for me to say his name, is one of the worst people that I have ever read. He is genuinely a terrible person.
But in walks his teammate and their neighbor Alexsy, aka Alex. Alex and Anastasia form a beautiful friendship in a very dark world. He is her safe place in a life that has beaten her down. And things get worse before they get better for these two.
I don’t want to spoil too much, but this story is so devastating, but beautiful at the same time. Once again, there are some very dark themes and things that happen, but Alex is the epitome of a top tier book boyfriend, and he does everything in his power to keep our girl safe.
The second half of this book had me tearing up so hard. The friendships and love throughout really had my emotions on overload. I loved the main characters, but I also truly loved Dirks and Ledger. The things that happen in this book between the four of them really had me sobbing.
Aside from the heavy stuff in this book, the spice was spicy!! And my goodness, the MFF scene in this book. I will never forget it!!!
I am hoping that we get to see Dirks find his HEA in the future!
July 7, 2025
5⭐
3🌶️
5 Spicy Scenes
Prepare to be SICK of me and talking about this book! Definitely check your TW before diving in though!
Stassi is a gold medalist in Russia and moves to the states to continue her figure skating career. To be able to afford figure skating she gets into a arranged marriage to Dimitri, a Russian hockey player, to be able to afford to continue her passion. Shortly after the I Do’s she can already tell that this is going to be far from a loving marriage. The only solace she has is Alex. Another Russian hockey player who plays for the same team and lives in the same building. He is her safe place and her friend in this strange new place. Eventually the marriage implodes. Four years go by and in a new city things have changed. Stassi is now no longer married and is a single mom. Alex is a Stanley cup champion on a new team. But neither one of them has forgotten about their friendship and the safety they had with one another. Now feeling more in control and stable they decide to explore their feelings together and try to replace old memories with new ones together.
I barely have words to describe this book. Everything about it from page one had me sucked in. This had me cursing, wanting to cry, and blushing usually within one sitting 😂 Vee Taylor does a AMAZING job of depicting a very serious issue in this book and the aftermath. While this book is HEAVY on the emotion there are also times of light and laughter. And don’t get me started on the spice that happens later in the book 😅 This book felt more than just a normal romance book. This felt like a message to everybody that has dealt with anything similar that happens in this book. I hope anybody that reads this and has went through this can see them self in this book and if they haven’t made it to where Stassi is in the end I hope that one day they do.
3🌶️
5 Spicy Scenes
Prepare to be SICK of me and talking about this book! Definitely check your TW before diving in though!
Stassi is a gold medalist in Russia and moves to the states to continue her figure skating career. To be able to afford figure skating she gets into a arranged marriage to Dimitri, a Russian hockey player, to be able to afford to continue her passion. Shortly after the I Do’s she can already tell that this is going to be far from a loving marriage. The only solace she has is Alex. Another Russian hockey player who plays for the same team and lives in the same building. He is her safe place and her friend in this strange new place. Eventually the marriage implodes. Four years go by and in a new city things have changed. Stassi is now no longer married and is a single mom. Alex is a Stanley cup champion on a new team. But neither one of them has forgotten about their friendship and the safety they had with one another. Now feeling more in control and stable they decide to explore their feelings together and try to replace old memories with new ones together.
I barely have words to describe this book. Everything about it from page one had me sucked in. This had me cursing, wanting to cry, and blushing usually within one sitting 😂 Vee Taylor does a AMAZING job of depicting a very serious issue in this book and the aftermath. While this book is HEAVY on the emotion there are also times of light and laughter. And don’t get me started on the spice that happens later in the book 😅 This book felt more than just a normal romance book. This felt like a message to everybody that has dealt with anything similar that happens in this book. I hope anybody that reads this and has went through this can see them self in this book and if they haven’t made it to where Stassi is in the end I hope that one day they do.
June 4, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin—because this book was everything. Vee Taylor delivers a deeply moving, beautifully written story in Your Sharpest Edge—one that feels personal, authentic, and unforgettable.
As a DV survivor and a single mom, it felt like Vee cracked open my soul and somehow stitched me back together in the same breath—handing me back hope.
I started it late at night, thinking I’d just read a few chapters… and suddenly, the sun was rising and I’d finished the entire thing in one sitting, tears still drying on my face.
I cried, I smiled, I laughed—and I saw myself in Anastasia in ways I didn’t expect. Her pain, her fear, her determination to survive—it was all so real. Her trauma isn’t romanticized—it’s handled with care, nuance, and a deep sense of compassion. The way her story unfolded didn’t feel like fiction. It felt like healing. Watching her slowly begin to trust again, find her voice, and rediscover joy wasn’t just emotional—it was empowering.
And Alex? He’s everything. He’s the safe space every survivor dreams of—patient, protective, and never pushing. Their connection builds gently, with so much care, and it never once feels rushed. That slow, steady intimacy made their love story feel even more powerful.
This book reminded me that love after trauma isn’t just possible—it’s worth fighting for. It gave me a peace and hope I didn’t know I needed.
It’s more than a second-chance hockey romance—it’s a lifeline. A reminder that healing is messy, love can be safe, and starting over is brave.
I didn’t just love this book. I needed it.
As a DV survivor and a single mom, it felt like Vee cracked open my soul and somehow stitched me back together in the same breath—handing me back hope.
I started it late at night, thinking I’d just read a few chapters… and suddenly, the sun was rising and I’d finished the entire thing in one sitting, tears still drying on my face.
I cried, I smiled, I laughed—and I saw myself in Anastasia in ways I didn’t expect. Her pain, her fear, her determination to survive—it was all so real. Her trauma isn’t romanticized—it’s handled with care, nuance, and a deep sense of compassion. The way her story unfolded didn’t feel like fiction. It felt like healing. Watching her slowly begin to trust again, find her voice, and rediscover joy wasn’t just emotional—it was empowering.
And Alex? He’s everything. He’s the safe space every survivor dreams of—patient, protective, and never pushing. Their connection builds gently, with so much care, and it never once feels rushed. That slow, steady intimacy made their love story feel even more powerful.
This book reminded me that love after trauma isn’t just possible—it’s worth fighting for. It gave me a peace and hope I didn’t know I needed.
It’s more than a second-chance hockey romance—it’s a lifeline. A reminder that healing is messy, love can be safe, and starting over is brave.
I didn’t just love this book. I needed it.
June 20, 2025
This book had me sobbing! Whew, talk about some tough parts to read and struggle through. But it was written so well. It was a good story.
Anastasia was sent to the US to marry a professional hockey player who was also from her hometown in Russia. He had enough money to help her continue her career as a figure skater. She was not thrilled about the idea, but figured her parents knew best. Sadly, her new husband, Dimitri, was not happy about the arrangements and took it out on her. He was horrible to her and controlled everything about her. He broke her down little by little.
Alex was a teammate of Dimitri’s and also from Russia. The two quickly became friends and he became her safe space. Alex knew something wasn’t right and wanted to help her, but knew if he pushed she would run. So he was there for her whenever she needed. He started to care for her more than just a friend, but didn’t act on it because she was married.
After Dimitri went too far Anastasia pushed Alex away and the two lost contact for years. But fate worked its magic and the two were reunited once again. The sparks were still there between the two. He would wait for her no matter how long it took. She was still scared and didn’t know if she could ever trust a man again.
This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster. Men like Dimitri are just awful, but thankful for men like Alex who are there to help and protect women like Anastasia.
4⭐️
3🌶️
Anastasia was sent to the US to marry a professional hockey player who was also from her hometown in Russia. He had enough money to help her continue her career as a figure skater. She was not thrilled about the idea, but figured her parents knew best. Sadly, her new husband, Dimitri, was not happy about the arrangements and took it out on her. He was horrible to her and controlled everything about her. He broke her down little by little.
Alex was a teammate of Dimitri’s and also from Russia. The two quickly became friends and he became her safe space. Alex knew something wasn’t right and wanted to help her, but knew if he pushed she would run. So he was there for her whenever she needed. He started to care for her more than just a friend, but didn’t act on it because she was married.
After Dimitri went too far Anastasia pushed Alex away and the two lost contact for years. But fate worked its magic and the two were reunited once again. The sparks were still there between the two. He would wait for her no matter how long it took. She was still scared and didn’t know if she could ever trust a man again.
This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster. Men like Dimitri are just awful, but thankful for men like Alex who are there to help and protect women like Anastasia.
4⭐️
3🌶️
June 13, 2025
Your Sharpest Edge completely wrecked me in the best and worst ways possible. I’m not even being dramatic when I say this is one of my top reads of 2025. This book put me through it. It’s heartbreaking, beautiful, heavy, and full of so much raw emotion, friendship, and love. But PLEASE check the trigger warnings before diving in there are some dark, on page scenes that are very intense.
I don’t want to give away too much, but wow… this story broke my heart and slowly pieced it back together. It’s dark, it’s devastating, but there’s so much beauty in the pain. And Alex? He’s everything. Top tier book boyfriend material. The way he protects and loves her I melted. I sobbed through the second half of this book. Like full on emotional spiral. The friendships between the characters made everything hit even harder. I adored Dirks and Ledger just as much as the main couple. Their bond, the things they go through together? My heart.
And okay, let’s talk about the spice real quick because it was giving. 🔥 That MFF scene?? UNFORGETTABLE. It lives rent-free in my head.
I’m really hoping Dirks gets his HEA soon because that man deserves it after everything. 10/10 emotional damage. Would absolutely do it all again.
I don’t want to give away too much, but wow… this story broke my heart and slowly pieced it back together. It’s dark, it’s devastating, but there’s so much beauty in the pain. And Alex? He’s everything. Top tier book boyfriend material. The way he protects and loves her I melted. I sobbed through the second half of this book. Like full on emotional spiral. The friendships between the characters made everything hit even harder. I adored Dirks and Ledger just as much as the main couple. Their bond, the things they go through together? My heart.
And okay, let’s talk about the spice real quick because it was giving. 🔥 That MFF scene?? UNFORGETTABLE. It lives rent-free in my head.
I’m really hoping Dirks gets his HEA soon because that man deserves it after everything. 10/10 emotional damage. Would absolutely do it all again.
June 12, 2025
ARC Review
3/5 Stars
Spoiler free review
I am so grateful that I got an ARC of this book. With that being said, let's get into the review.
Tropes:
- Hockey player x retired ice skater
- best friends to lovers
- single mom
- second chance romance
Overall thoughts:
We follow our two main leads, Anastasia (Stassi) and Alex, throughout multiple years. This book kicks off with Stassi, having just arrived in the States, looking to save her ice skating career. This involves her in an arranged marriage with hockey player, Dimitri. The marriage is abusive right off the bat. Stassi, however, finds comfort in one of her neighbors, Alex, who also happens to be Dimitri's teammate. Secret relationships evolve, and the abuse gets worse. Stassi is having to fight for herself in a new country by herself.
Good things:
I thought the character development of Stassi throughout the book was excellent. She endures a lot, and you are right there with her in her lowest lows and her highest highs. While she has questionable moments (let's be real, how are you gonna act when you have a sexy hockey player in front of you), her character was quite admirable. I also quite enjoyed the storyline. This story occurs over the span of multiple years, and you are front row with those characters through those major life changes.
Things I didn't like:
There were moments where I thought the pacing was hard to follow. Sometimes there'd be big jumps in time (one day, to 1 month later), and I got a little lost. For me personally, there were moments where I didn't like Alex's character. He tended to love bomb sometimes, and I don't enjoy reading about that.
Final thoughts:
If you love hockey romances and second chances, you will like this book. What fell for me unfortunately, was just the pacing. I'd get so sucked into it and I felt like I was living with Stassi, and suddenly its 2 months later. But if you look past that, overall, it was an enjoyable read.
3/5 Stars
Spoiler free review
I am so grateful that I got an ARC of this book. With that being said, let's get into the review.
Tropes:
- Hockey player x retired ice skater
- best friends to lovers
- single mom
- second chance romance
Overall thoughts:
We follow our two main leads, Anastasia (Stassi) and Alex, throughout multiple years. This book kicks off with Stassi, having just arrived in the States, looking to save her ice skating career. This involves her in an arranged marriage with hockey player, Dimitri. The marriage is abusive right off the bat. Stassi, however, finds comfort in one of her neighbors, Alex, who also happens to be Dimitri's teammate. Secret relationships evolve, and the abuse gets worse. Stassi is having to fight for herself in a new country by herself.
Good things:
I thought the character development of Stassi throughout the book was excellent. She endures a lot, and you are right there with her in her lowest lows and her highest highs. While she has questionable moments (let's be real, how are you gonna act when you have a sexy hockey player in front of you), her character was quite admirable. I also quite enjoyed the storyline. This story occurs over the span of multiple years, and you are front row with those characters through those major life changes.
Things I didn't like:
There were moments where I thought the pacing was hard to follow. Sometimes there'd be big jumps in time (one day, to 1 month later), and I got a little lost. For me personally, there were moments where I didn't like Alex's character. He tended to love bomb sometimes, and I don't enjoy reading about that.
Final thoughts:
If you love hockey romances and second chances, you will like this book. What fell for me unfortunately, was just the pacing. I'd get so sucked into it and I felt like I was living with Stassi, and suddenly its 2 months later. But if you look past that, overall, it was an enjoyable read.
June 8, 2025
First of all- THANK YOU for allowing me to be an ARC reader! I had a good time with this book!
⚠️ please check trigger warnings this book has HEAVY moments of domestic violence& SA! ⚠️
If you love hockey/sports romance then I can guarantee you will love this book!
It has all of the elements I love- a good plot..SPICY! It made me cry & it had so many feel good moments.
Alex & Stassi’s relationship is truly special. Their chemistry is palpable! & their friendship is so so genuine.
Stassi is such a strong FMC & she goes through so much EXTREME trauma with her husband..it’s utterly heartbreaking but seeing how she navigates out of that situation is truly inspiring!
I don’t want to give too much away because I typically like to go into books somewhat blind!
🖤Some tropes are:
•Arranged Marriage 💍
•Forbidden Love 🙅🏼♀️
•Hockey Romance 🏒
•Slow-ish burn but instant chemistry ❤️🔥
•Single Parent 🧑🧒
🌶️X3
My only complaint is that some parts of this book did feel rushed…and some parts did feel a bit repetitive! But nonetheless I really enjoyed it! I love Vee Taylor’s writing style & I cannot wait to read more from her!
⚠️ please check trigger warnings this book has HEAVY moments of domestic violence& SA! ⚠️
If you love hockey/sports romance then I can guarantee you will love this book!
It has all of the elements I love- a good plot..SPICY! It made me cry & it had so many feel good moments.
Alex & Stassi’s relationship is truly special. Their chemistry is palpable! & their friendship is so so genuine.
Stassi is such a strong FMC & she goes through so much EXTREME trauma with her husband..it’s utterly heartbreaking but seeing how she navigates out of that situation is truly inspiring!
I don’t want to give too much away because I typically like to go into books somewhat blind!
🖤Some tropes are:
•Arranged Marriage 💍
•Forbidden Love 🙅🏼♀️
•Hockey Romance 🏒
•Slow-ish burn but instant chemistry ❤️🔥
•Single Parent 🧑🧒
🌶️X3
My only complaint is that some parts of this book did feel rushed…and some parts did feel a bit repetitive! But nonetheless I really enjoyed it! I love Vee Taylor’s writing style & I cannot wait to read more from her!
June 11, 2025
✨ARC Review 📚✨
4.5 ⭐️
This book was so emotional, it broke your heart and put it back together at the end. Please read the TWs before reading as this book touches on a very heavy topic that may be hard for some people to read. But as always Vee did such an amazing job, she has such an amazing way with her writing that I felt every emotion the FMC went through. This story follows Stassi and Alex, who meet when Stassi is married to Alex’s hockey teammate. They become friends but in reality they had always been more than friends. Stassi suffers from DV resulting in a major injury caused by her then husband when she wakes from her coma, she pushes Alex away because she wants to regain control. Fast forward to a couple years later they meet again unexpectedly, feelings are still lingering and they explore it. Definitely a must read! Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you to Vee Taylor for the opportunity to ARC read this book and can’t wait to see what’s next!
4.5 ⭐️
This book was so emotional, it broke your heart and put it back together at the end. Please read the TWs before reading as this book touches on a very heavy topic that may be hard for some people to read. But as always Vee did such an amazing job, she has such an amazing way with her writing that I felt every emotion the FMC went through. This story follows Stassi and Alex, who meet when Stassi is married to Alex’s hockey teammate. They become friends but in reality they had always been more than friends. Stassi suffers from DV resulting in a major injury caused by her then husband when she wakes from her coma, she pushes Alex away because she wants to regain control. Fast forward to a couple years later they meet again unexpectedly, feelings are still lingering and they explore it. Definitely a must read! Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Thank you to Vee Taylor for the opportunity to ARC read this book and can’t wait to see what’s next!
June 12, 2025
⛸️ARC REVIEW⛸️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Because you’re my religion, malyshka,” he whispered, his lips just a breath away from mine. “I have to worship at your altar. It’s like being in the presence of a living goddess.”
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Your Sharpest Edge, and wow… what a powerful read. I already loved the glimpses we got of Alex and Anastasia in book one, but diving into the heart of their story made me fall for them and appreciate their connection even more.
This isn’t a light, fluffy romance—it’s raw, emotionally intense, and at times deeply painful, but also incredibly hopeful. It’s about finding someone who sees your broken pieces and doesn’t flinch—someone who helps you reclaim your freedom and your sense of self. Alex and Anastasia are amazing both on their own and together, and I truly couldn’t get enough of them.
As always, be sure to check trigger warnings—your mental health comes first, and this story definitely delves into some heavy, emotionally intense territory. But if you’re in the right headspace, Your Sharpest Edge is an unforgettable experience—gut-wrenching and deeply moving, filled with raw emotion, a perfectly paced slow burn, and a powerful second chance at love.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Because you’re my religion, malyshka,” he whispered, his lips just a breath away from mine. “I have to worship at your altar. It’s like being in the presence of a living goddess.”
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Your Sharpest Edge, and wow… what a powerful read. I already loved the glimpses we got of Alex and Anastasia in book one, but diving into the heart of their story made me fall for them and appreciate their connection even more.
This isn’t a light, fluffy romance—it’s raw, emotionally intense, and at times deeply painful, but also incredibly hopeful. It’s about finding someone who sees your broken pieces and doesn’t flinch—someone who helps you reclaim your freedom and your sense of self. Alex and Anastasia are amazing both on their own and together, and I truly couldn’t get enough of them.
As always, be sure to check trigger warnings—your mental health comes first, and this story definitely delves into some heavy, emotionally intense territory. But if you’re in the right headspace, Your Sharpest Edge is an unforgettable experience—gut-wrenching and deeply moving, filled with raw emotion, a perfectly paced slow burn, and a powerful second chance at love.
June 19, 2025
This book puts you through all the emotions. Stassi was sent to America to marry a professional hockey player from her hometown in Russia, so she could have money and stability to continue figure skating. Unfortunately, her new husband was not happy about this arrangement and took it out on her. Alex was also from their hometown and played hockey with Dimitri. Alex and Stassi grew close as friends when Dimitri would leave to go out and party. Alex and Stassi had an attraction and connection but kept it friendly. When Stassi worked up the courage to ask for a divorce, Dimitri went crazy and put her in the ICU and she lost the use of her legs. Stassi being a new mom and just finding all this out, sent Alex away. Five years later, both Alex and Stassi are in Chicago and run into each other. She's walking now and trying to support her son as best as she can. Alex will stop at nothing to keep her in his life now. They begin to slowly have a relationship. What will happen when her ex threatens to come back?
June 4, 2025
Thanks to Vee Taylor for the Arc!
But can I just say 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ but don’t forget 🏒⛸️!!
I knew going into this book after reading “Your Pucking Mom” Vee wasn’t going to let the reads hearts not bleed open and be put back together again. I was initially hesitant because I already knew their ending based off reading “Your Pucking Mom” but my nerves were pointless!
I needed Malyshka & Alex’s story. Seeing Ledger use them as a model for love…I was bursting at the seems. Alex represents how to uplift a woman and believe in them… not only through their trauma but also through their self exploration (sex included). We love a sex positive king!
Please check the trigger warnings on this book. But also know Vee handles the topics with care and realism. Don’t go into this book thinking it’ll be another smutty hockey romance…because it is so much more!
I wonder who is next Nova 👀
But can I just say 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ but don’t forget 🏒⛸️!!
I knew going into this book after reading “Your Pucking Mom” Vee wasn’t going to let the reads hearts not bleed open and be put back together again. I was initially hesitant because I already knew their ending based off reading “Your Pucking Mom” but my nerves were pointless!
I needed Malyshka & Alex’s story. Seeing Ledger use them as a model for love…I was bursting at the seems. Alex represents how to uplift a woman and believe in them… not only through their trauma but also through their self exploration (sex included). We love a sex positive king!
Please check the trigger warnings on this book. But also know Vee handles the topics with care and realism. Don’t go into this book thinking it’ll be another smutty hockey romance…because it is so much more!
I wonder who is next Nova 👀
June 16, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This book was beautifully written with heavy topics so please read the trigger warnings as they are there for a reason.
Alex and Stassi are two characters just meant for each other. The journey of watching a friendship grow through dark times then seeing them both struggle with the fallout of a major life event was painfully beautiful.
Stassi is a character who went through extreme trauma and worked so hard to overcome the scars to be the best mom, friend, and person.
Alex is a gentle soul who yearned for love unlike the example he grew up with, but knew he had to wait for the right time.
The story is told in 3 parts. Each part has such raw and emotional experiences that I felt it all in my heart.
This story was absolutely breathtaking and amazing and I can’t wait for more from Vee!
This book was beautifully written with heavy topics so please read the trigger warnings as they are there for a reason.
Alex and Stassi are two characters just meant for each other. The journey of watching a friendship grow through dark times then seeing them both struggle with the fallout of a major life event was painfully beautiful.
Stassi is a character who went through extreme trauma and worked so hard to overcome the scars to be the best mom, friend, and person.
Alex is a gentle soul who yearned for love unlike the example he grew up with, but knew he had to wait for the right time.
The story is told in 3 parts. Each part has such raw and emotional experiences that I felt it all in my heart.
This story was absolutely breathtaking and amazing and I can’t wait for more from Vee!
June 23, 2025
ARC Read Review
This is the second book in the Ravens Hockey series, however the events of this book happen prior to book 1 (Your Pucking Mom). So I think when if I reread this series I would read this book before Your Pucking Mom, so I read it in order the events happen, but you can read it in either order really but you know Alex and Stassi get together as they are a couple in book 1.
Stassi had been through absolute hell. She was 19 years old when she came from Russia to USA and had an arranged marriage with Dimitri. However it was not a marriage that was a match made in heaven, Dimitri is volatile and possessive! However Stassi may have been beaten and broken but she has come out the other side and she is so strong, and now she has her wee boy Damien!
Alex has felt a draw to Stassi since he first met her but she was married to his team mate. However he wanted to be there for her and when first suspect her marriage wasn't all it was he made sure to be home to offer her a safe space to go.
Stassi pushes Alex away and years past and then they reconnect in Chicago and that connection is still there between them. Their relationship is truly beautiful and meant to be. I'm looking forward to more from the Ravens Hockey series.
This is the second book in the Ravens Hockey series, however the events of this book happen prior to book 1 (Your Pucking Mom). So I think when if I reread this series I would read this book before Your Pucking Mom, so I read it in order the events happen, but you can read it in either order really but you know Alex and Stassi get together as they are a couple in book 1.
Stassi had been through absolute hell. She was 19 years old when she came from Russia to USA and had an arranged marriage with Dimitri. However it was not a marriage that was a match made in heaven, Dimitri is volatile and possessive! However Stassi may have been beaten and broken but she has come out the other side and she is so strong, and now she has her wee boy Damien!
Alex has felt a draw to Stassi since he first met her but she was married to his team mate. However he wanted to be there for her and when first suspect her marriage wasn't all it was he made sure to be home to offer her a safe space to go.
Stassi pushes Alex away and years past and then they reconnect in Chicago and that connection is still there between them. Their relationship is truly beautiful and meant to be. I'm looking forward to more from the Ravens Hockey series.
June 22, 2025
4.25
I loved this one, it had me so emotional at so many points. Please check your trigger warnings before you pick this one up. I loved the characters and getting to explore their story and what led them to where they are when we meet them in the first book of the series. What they go through and the situations they get put through are so heartbreaking, but to see where they end up was so wholesome and it felt like they needed to go through some (definitely not all) of what they did to truly appreciate and love each other and their relationship. These are very complex characters and they were handled with so much care and love. Also a shoutout to the side characters and the other side of them we got to explore and how much they banded around our main characters and supported them through everything. Damien is a little cutie that I just want to squeeze.
I loved this one, it had me so emotional at so many points. Please check your trigger warnings before you pick this one up. I loved the characters and getting to explore their story and what led them to where they are when we meet them in the first book of the series. What they go through and the situations they get put through are so heartbreaking, but to see where they end up was so wholesome and it felt like they needed to go through some (definitely not all) of what they did to truly appreciate and love each other and their relationship. These are very complex characters and they were handled with so much care and love. Also a shoutout to the side characters and the other side of them we got to explore and how much they banded around our main characters and supported them through everything. Damien is a little cutie that I just want to squeeze.
June 22, 2025
2.5 ⭐️
This one was a bit of a struggle for me. The premise had potential … hockey romance, escape from an abusive marriage, second chances … but I just couldn’t connect with either of the main characters. Their development felt surface-level and I found myself emotionally detached from most of the story.
The timeline jumped around a lot and while it wasn’t necessarily confusing, it did feel like we skipped over the parts I actually wanted to see. There were moments that could’ve added so much depth but instead they were glossed over or skipped entirely.
I did appreciate the emotional weight behind Anastasia’s healing journey and I can see how others might really resonate with that. But for me it lacked the impact I was hoping for and I closed the book feeling mostly meh.
Trigger warnings are a must with this one as it deals with some heavy stuff early on.
This one was a bit of a struggle for me. The premise had potential … hockey romance, escape from an abusive marriage, second chances … but I just couldn’t connect with either of the main characters. Their development felt surface-level and I found myself emotionally detached from most of the story.
The timeline jumped around a lot and while it wasn’t necessarily confusing, it did feel like we skipped over the parts I actually wanted to see. There were moments that could’ve added so much depth but instead they were glossed over or skipped entirely.
I did appreciate the emotional weight behind Anastasia’s healing journey and I can see how others might really resonate with that. But for me it lacked the impact I was hoping for and I closed the book feeling mostly meh.
Trigger warnings are a must with this one as it deals with some heavy stuff early on.
June 17, 2025
Tropes-
Hockey romance
Friends to lovers
Golden retriever MMC
Forbidden
Single Parent
Bi awakening
Slow-burn
✨️ Thank you to Vee Taylor for the ARC for my honest review! Please check your triggers before diving in. This book has some dark themes. Holy cow! This book blew me away. My heart was put through the ringer while reading this. My heart broke for Stassi and everything that she was put through. Alex is such an amazing MMC. I loved their friendship and how he was there for her with no ill intentions. I love the growth that Stassi goes through and how Alex let's her explore her sexuality after everything she went through. If you can handle the triggers, I definitely recommend you give this a read because it was amazing!
Hockey romance
Friends to lovers
Golden retriever MMC
Forbidden
Single Parent
Bi awakening
Slow-burn
✨️ Thank you to Vee Taylor for the ARC for my honest review! Please check your triggers before diving in. This book has some dark themes. Holy cow! This book blew me away. My heart was put through the ringer while reading this. My heart broke for Stassi and everything that she was put through. Alex is such an amazing MMC. I loved their friendship and how he was there for her with no ill intentions. I love the growth that Stassi goes through and how Alex let's her explore her sexuality after everything she went through. If you can handle the triggers, I definitely recommend you give this a read because it was amazing!
June 11, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Your Sharpest Edge. Alex and Anastasia’s story is full of heartbreak and pain but also love and laughter. This story does contain domestic abuse but is a HEA that shows that out of the darkness can come the light. Everything that happened led to Stassi meeting the love of her life. Stassi could have given up after everything that happened to her, but she continued fighting through and made a life for herself and continued getting better when Alex came back into her life with his friends, proving that not all men are like her ex-husband. This story was heartwarming and gives hope to anyone that is going through a similar thing. ❤️
June 16, 2025
Have your tissues ready for this one!
This one I couldn’t put down. I kept wanting to read no matter what. This is a second chance romance and if you’ve read any of my reviews before you know how I feel about second chances.
I kid you not, this was so beautiful and well written it made you feel as if you were the fmc. The book starts off where she’s married at 19 and doesn’t know what to expect. Till she finds out that her expectations were far from what this marriage is. All seems lost till she meets Alex. He instantly becomes her best friend and helps her in anyway possible. Till one night something traumatic happens and they lose contact for a while.
Thank you so much for this arc
This one I couldn’t put down. I kept wanting to read no matter what. This is a second chance romance and if you’ve read any of my reviews before you know how I feel about second chances.
I kid you not, this was so beautiful and well written it made you feel as if you were the fmc. The book starts off where she’s married at 19 and doesn’t know what to expect. Till she finds out that her expectations were far from what this marriage is. All seems lost till she meets Alex. He instantly becomes her best friend and helps her in anyway possible. Till one night something traumatic happens and they lose contact for a while.
Thank you so much for this arc
June 24, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Wow, what an emotional read! This is the second book in the Ravens Hockey Series. I am in love! This book will bring you through every emotion possible. Alex and Anastasia’s story is amazing. Alex has always been so supportive of Anastasia since day one. Anastasia went through things that no one should ever have to go through! Seeing Alex and Anastasia’s relationship from the beginning being friends to ending up together was priceless! This is a must read!
Vee is an amazing author and her writing is top notch. She has a way of making the reader feel every emotion within her stories! She is by far one of my favorites!
Wow, what an emotional read! This is the second book in the Ravens Hockey Series. I am in love! This book will bring you through every emotion possible. Alex and Anastasia’s story is amazing. Alex has always been so supportive of Anastasia since day one. Anastasia went through things that no one should ever have to go through! Seeing Alex and Anastasia’s relationship from the beginning being friends to ending up together was priceless! This is a must read!
Vee is an amazing author and her writing is top notch. She has a way of making the reader feel every emotion within her stories! She is by far one of my favorites!
June 11, 2025
3.5⭐️⭐️⭐️
“You are not a nobody, Anastasia. You are everything”
Thank you for the ARC seriously!!!
Make sure you read the TW before starting as there are some heavy topics!
Tropes:
Second chance
Single mom
Friends to lovers
Hockey x former ice skater
This was such an emotional read! Vee wrote the DV situation so perfectly! Showing how woman don’t leave until they are ready. I love how she wrote about how Stassi overcame her trauma. ALEX WAS THE PERFECT MAN!
I love a good second chance romance! This was everything I was hoping for! I loved all the F it moments!
“You are not a nobody, Anastasia. You are everything”
Thank you for the ARC seriously!!!
Make sure you read the TW before starting as there are some heavy topics!
Tropes:
Second chance
Single mom
Friends to lovers
Hockey x former ice skater
This was such an emotional read! Vee wrote the DV situation so perfectly! Showing how woman don’t leave until they are ready. I love how she wrote about how Stassi overcame her trauma. ALEX WAS THE PERFECT MAN!
I love a good second chance romance! This was everything I was hoping for! I loved all the F it moments!
June 26, 2025
Alex and Stassi stole my heart!!!! I absolutely loved this book, and it’s one of my favorites books. I would recommend this book to anyone!!!! Stassi has so much character growth from the beginning of the book to the end, and she went through so much in first part of the book! I cried for her, and my heart hurt for her! Alex was the one person she could count on , and he was honestly her saving grace during those hard times! He would do anything for her, and he proved it more than once!
July 1, 2025
4 ⭐
This book held my emotions in high alert the whole time. There are so many touchy topics covered in this book, but Vee does it in a very tasteful and readable way and I appreciate that. The relationship between Stassi and Alex is amazing and I love watching it deepen. Once I started this book I had a hard time putting it down, very well written. Stassi is a FMC that I was rooting for from the very beginning and Alex was a MMC that was easy to fall in love with. Can't wait to read the rest in the series!! Well done!
This book held my emotions in high alert the whole time. There are so many touchy topics covered in this book, but Vee does it in a very tasteful and readable way and I appreciate that. The relationship between Stassi and Alex is amazing and I love watching it deepen. Once I started this book I had a hard time putting it down, very well written. Stassi is a FMC that I was rooting for from the very beginning and Alex was a MMC that was easy to fall in love with. Can't wait to read the rest in the series!! Well done!
June 9, 2025
This book started off BRUTAL, definitely check your trigger warnings, but I think watching the FMC go through the struggles made her journey more meaningful. It was so beautiful watching Anastasia and Alex’s friendship grow in the beginning. I also loved watching her learn to trust again and open herself up to love with Alex in the second half.
June 18, 2025
First of all, this book took me through sooooooo many emotions. The writing, the story, the characters *chefs kiss*. Anastasia (Stassi) is a Russian figure skater who moves to America to marry Dimitri who is a hockey player from her hometown. Dimitri is a complete a$$ who doesn’t deserve Stassi. Alex on the other hand is book boyfriend material and is Dimitri’s teammate. The way Alex talks and supports Stassi pulls at your heart strings. When Stassi gets pregnant, her world starts to crumble. If I say anymore it will spoil too much, you should definitely read this to find out what happens because it will make you cry, laugh, throw things in anger, and so much more.
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