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Cruel Command #3
Cruel Revenge
Marrying my ex’s brother was supposed to be revenge. I never meant to fall for him.
Joshua Vitale walks into my life with a deal I can’t refuse—a fake marriage to solve his business problem.
In return, he’ll help my family.
It’s perfect.
It gets me what I want, and it’s the ultimate payback against my ex.
But the longer I pretend to be Joshua’s wife, the more real it feels.
The way he looks at me.
The way he touches me.
The way I crave him when I shouldn’t.
What started as a game is spiraling into something dangerous.
My family’s war is closing in, and Joshua is caught in the crossfire.
Keeping him at a distance is impossible, but dragging him deeper into my world could get him killed.
This was never meant to be real.
But now, walking away might destroy us both.
Cruel Revenge is the third book in the Cruel Command Series. It's a dark, seductive, and thrilling mafia romance featuring a fake marriage, forbidden attraction to an ex’s brother, and a scorching quest for revenge.
Joshua Vitale walks into my life with a deal I can’t refuse—a fake marriage to solve his business problem.
In return, he’ll help my family.
It’s perfect.
It gets me what I want, and it’s the ultimate payback against my ex.
But the longer I pretend to be Joshua’s wife, the more real it feels.
The way he looks at me.
The way he touches me.
The way I crave him when I shouldn’t.
What started as a game is spiraling into something dangerous.
My family’s war is closing in, and Joshua is caught in the crossfire.
Keeping him at a distance is impossible, but dragging him deeper into my world could get him killed.
This was never meant to be real.
But now, walking away might destroy us both.
Cruel Revenge is the third book in the Cruel Command Series. It's a dark, seductive, and thrilling mafia romance featuring a fake marriage, forbidden attraction to an ex’s brother, and a scorching quest for revenge.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2025
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July 28, 2025
Cruel Revenge is the third book in the Cruel Command Series. It's a dark, seductive, and thrilling mafia romance featuring a fake marriage, forbidden attraction to an ex’s brother, and a scorching quest for revenge. This is Joshua and Skyla story which is told from a dual point of view. An unputdownable and addictive read. A definite page turner with enticing erotic scenes that will have you gasping for more. An exquisitely written story with flawed and damage individuals and a twisty and complex storyline that grabs the reader attention from the beginning and keep you riveted and on your seat and turning the pages. A fast paced, thrilling, twisted and dark read. Wow! Is all that I can say about this addition to the series.
Hang on to your kindle and brace yourself for this tantalizing rollercoaster ride filled with tension, threats, submission, power play, dominance, dirty talking, emotions, angst, suspense, surprises, twists and turns, action, betrayal, deep dark hidden secrets, danger, deception, darkness, love, madness, losses, impending mob war, enemies, rivalry, revenge, retaliation, steam, murder, touch-her-and-die romance, protective alpha hero romance, revelations, power and control, consensual intense rough sex, distrust, lies, internal conflicts, violence, possessiveness, humor, obsession, hatred, loyalty, alliance, threats, billionaires romance, anger, torture, action & adventure romance, romantic suspense story, organize crime story, stalking, family drama, forbidden romance, spanking, off-limits romance, business arrangement, enemies-to-lovers romance, banter, hate-to-love vibes romance, deception, jealousy, backstabbing, mystery, knife play, resilience.
Thirty-three year old Skyla Lynde a.k.a. Reaper is part of the Lynde mafia family. Her father died two years ago and left his empire to her and her brother Aiden whose in charge of the business to carry-on the legacy that their father as created. She's the money woman for the family. Although she's the one who runs the house she's always putting out fires because everyone is afraid to talk to Aiden. Skyla has a very dark secret that no one knows about and she believes that she's unlovable. She's always being underestimated by everyone even her family. Her ex-boyfriend Logan proved it to when she caught him in bed with her ex-best friend Bella, who he later marry after she broke up with him. But Logan still loves her and wants her back since she left him and she has no interest of getting back together with him. And since then he has been on a petty vindictive vendetta against her and constantly misuses his power to take her and her family down and put them in prison. He's a DEA agent and out of revenge because he feels wronged when she left him. He has decided to raid her family's businesses one by one starting with the money laundering business at the laundromat.
Skyla is tired of cleaning up the family's mess and always putting her family ahead of her needs and dreams of a simpler life away from New York and maybe go somewhere in Vermont where she can indulge in her dark desires and let the darkness in and by herself away from her family who doesn't understand or care about her and is ashame of her.
Thirty-six old year old drug lord Joshua Vitale is the head of his family in it's drug business and is a big supplier to the other mafia families. Grady is his business partner and he finds himself in a dilemma when Grady Granville is pressuring him to marrying his spoiled brat daughter Emily because she's fascinated with him and he always give her whatever she wants. Joshua told him that sooner or later he could end up in prison as a way to deter him and furthermore she's too young for him because she's only twenty-three to his thirty-six years. He doesn't plan on getting married and if he was he could do better than her contrary to what Grady thinks. Joshua doesn't have time for love or relationship, much less a wife. Grady tells him that it wasn't a request and try threatening him into marriage to his daughter or else he was going to stop being his supplier for his cocaine import. Grady is largest importer with the best cocaine. When he kept on pushing the issue on marriage Joshua told him that he was already married. He didn't have a choice but to find someone whose willing to play his fake wife.
As soon as Joshua saw Skyla walked in the club he knew that she was the perfect woman to play his wife. She has never been an easy to person to deal with even when she was dating his brother. But she makes his blood run faster anytime their path cross, because he never know if they were finally going to fuck or kill each other. Skyla is his little brother Logan ex-fiancee and Logan has always thought that Skyla was is property. Joshua had always been attracted to Skyla and thought Logan didn't deserve her. He knows that seeing them together is going to send him over the edge. He tells her that he as a business proposition for her one where she would get revenge against Logan for what he did to her. He gave her a deal that she couldn't refuse, a fake marriage to solve his business problem with Grady pushing him to marry his daughter and in return he'll help her family. The deal was her that family would get a larger cocaine shipments at a discounted price, more than what anyone else in the area is getting.
He would slow down deliveries to everyone else, and her family would be able to take the cocaine monopoly on the East Coast again. She would also get a ton of organsm and all she had to do was pretend to be his wife and make sure that Grady believes it. Grady is a dangerous man, the man who brings the best cocaine to the U.S. a year, he's someone no one wants to fuck with. This deal would be beneficial for the Lynde family after what happen with the Rinaldos. The Lynde's is the biggest mafia family in several states. All she had to do was run it by her brother Aiden first. But when Logan showed up to her house with a bogus warrant and tore it apart because he saw her and Joshua and the club and knew that that had sex after he catch them coming out of the bathroom. She made up her mind then to go with the arrangement whether her brother agreed to it or not and Logan told that he was he husband so she was free to have sex with him. This send him over the edge.
When Skyla told her sisters that she had eloped and was married and didn't at least invited them to the ceremony they decided to throw her a wedding reception since she had gotten married without telling them. The reception would at least give them the opportunity to spend time getting to know him. Additionally, the reception gave them a way to put their acting skills to test at being a happily married couple in front of everyone. Plus Grady and his daughter was going to be there.They're both hiding secrets from each other that they believe that if it comes out the other would look differently and wouldn't want to be together and walk away and both isn't ready to walk away. It started out as a fake relationship but somewhere along the lines several lines as been crossed and lines have been blurred and somehow fake turned into real and they both start to catch feelings and fell in love. He wants to conquer her. Own her. Make her submit to him. She's mine. He didn't want to lose her and vice-versa. Skyla has always felt alone but being with Joshua and finally felt like she's no longer alone and would do anything to protect that. He was her safe harbor, her home.
Even though, both of them have fallen in love with each other they both believe that the other only think it's still an arrangement and is not in love with the other and is hurt every time the other speak negatively about the marriage. Skyla is a beautiful, unhinged, fiesty, brutal, cunning and psychotic, monstrous person. Joshua is handsome, calculated and cold. They're both enjoying being married but Logan and Zoe Esposito as been reeking havoc on the Lynde's businesses. She's now in charge after her brother was murdered by the Lynde's and she plans on destroying all of them. Joshua also got caught in the cross-hair when his men is dying and showing up at his doorstep along with the Lynde's. He doesn't know what he got caught up in. The two compliments each other in their dysfunction and darkness. The two of a hard fought HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hang on to your kindle and brace yourself for this tantalizing rollercoaster ride filled with tension, threats, submission, power play, dominance, dirty talking, emotions, angst, suspense, surprises, twists and turns, action, betrayal, deep dark hidden secrets, danger, deception, darkness, love, madness, losses, impending mob war, enemies, rivalry, revenge, retaliation, steam, murder, touch-her-and-die romance, protective alpha hero romance, revelations, power and control, consensual intense rough sex, distrust, lies, internal conflicts, violence, possessiveness, humor, obsession, hatred, loyalty, alliance, threats, billionaires romance, anger, torture, action & adventure romance, romantic suspense story, organize crime story, stalking, family drama, forbidden romance, spanking, off-limits romance, business arrangement, enemies-to-lovers romance, banter, hate-to-love vibes romance, deception, jealousy, backstabbing, mystery, knife play, resilience.
Thirty-three year old Skyla Lynde a.k.a. Reaper is part of the Lynde mafia family. Her father died two years ago and left his empire to her and her brother Aiden whose in charge of the business to carry-on the legacy that their father as created. She's the money woman for the family. Although she's the one who runs the house she's always putting out fires because everyone is afraid to talk to Aiden. Skyla has a very dark secret that no one knows about and she believes that she's unlovable. She's always being underestimated by everyone even her family. Her ex-boyfriend Logan proved it to when she caught him in bed with her ex-best friend Bella, who he later marry after she broke up with him. But Logan still loves her and wants her back since she left him and she has no interest of getting back together with him. And since then he has been on a petty vindictive vendetta against her and constantly misuses his power to take her and her family down and put them in prison. He's a DEA agent and out of revenge because he feels wronged when she left him. He has decided to raid her family's businesses one by one starting with the money laundering business at the laundromat.
Skyla is tired of cleaning up the family's mess and always putting her family ahead of her needs and dreams of a simpler life away from New York and maybe go somewhere in Vermont where she can indulge in her dark desires and let the darkness in and by herself away from her family who doesn't understand or care about her and is ashame of her.
Thirty-six old year old drug lord Joshua Vitale is the head of his family in it's drug business and is a big supplier to the other mafia families. Grady is his business partner and he finds himself in a dilemma when Grady Granville is pressuring him to marrying his spoiled brat daughter Emily because she's fascinated with him and he always give her whatever she wants. Joshua told him that sooner or later he could end up in prison as a way to deter him and furthermore she's too young for him because she's only twenty-three to his thirty-six years. He doesn't plan on getting married and if he was he could do better than her contrary to what Grady thinks. Joshua doesn't have time for love or relationship, much less a wife. Grady tells him that it wasn't a request and try threatening him into marriage to his daughter or else he was going to stop being his supplier for his cocaine import. Grady is largest importer with the best cocaine. When he kept on pushing the issue on marriage Joshua told him that he was already married. He didn't have a choice but to find someone whose willing to play his fake wife.
As soon as Joshua saw Skyla walked in the club he knew that she was the perfect woman to play his wife. She has never been an easy to person to deal with even when she was dating his brother. But she makes his blood run faster anytime their path cross, because he never know if they were finally going to fuck or kill each other. Skyla is his little brother Logan ex-fiancee and Logan has always thought that Skyla was is property. Joshua had always been attracted to Skyla and thought Logan didn't deserve her. He knows that seeing them together is going to send him over the edge. He tells her that he as a business proposition for her one where she would get revenge against Logan for what he did to her. He gave her a deal that she couldn't refuse, a fake marriage to solve his business problem with Grady pushing him to marry his daughter and in return he'll help her family. The deal was her that family would get a larger cocaine shipments at a discounted price, more than what anyone else in the area is getting.
He would slow down deliveries to everyone else, and her family would be able to take the cocaine monopoly on the East Coast again. She would also get a ton of organsm and all she had to do was pretend to be his wife and make sure that Grady believes it. Grady is a dangerous man, the man who brings the best cocaine to the U.S. a year, he's someone no one wants to fuck with. This deal would be beneficial for the Lynde family after what happen with the Rinaldos. The Lynde's is the biggest mafia family in several states. All she had to do was run it by her brother Aiden first. But when Logan showed up to her house with a bogus warrant and tore it apart because he saw her and Joshua and the club and knew that that had sex after he catch them coming out of the bathroom. She made up her mind then to go with the arrangement whether her brother agreed to it or not and Logan told that he was he husband so she was free to have sex with him. This send him over the edge.
When Skyla told her sisters that she had eloped and was married and didn't at least invited them to the ceremony they decided to throw her a wedding reception since she had gotten married without telling them. The reception would at least give them the opportunity to spend time getting to know him. Additionally, the reception gave them a way to put their acting skills to test at being a happily married couple in front of everyone. Plus Grady and his daughter was going to be there.They're both hiding secrets from each other that they believe that if it comes out the other would look differently and wouldn't want to be together and walk away and both isn't ready to walk away. It started out as a fake relationship but somewhere along the lines several lines as been crossed and lines have been blurred and somehow fake turned into real and they both start to catch feelings and fell in love. He wants to conquer her. Own her. Make her submit to him. She's mine. He didn't want to lose her and vice-versa. Skyla has always felt alone but being with Joshua and finally felt like she's no longer alone and would do anything to protect that. He was her safe harbor, her home.
Even though, both of them have fallen in love with each other they both believe that the other only think it's still an arrangement and is not in love with the other and is hurt every time the other speak negatively about the marriage. Skyla is a beautiful, unhinged, fiesty, brutal, cunning and psychotic, monstrous person. Joshua is handsome, calculated and cold. They're both enjoying being married but Logan and Zoe Esposito as been reeking havoc on the Lynde's businesses. She's now in charge after her brother was murdered by the Lynde's and she plans on destroying all of them. Joshua also got caught in the cross-hair when his men is dying and showing up at his doorstep along with the Lynde's. He doesn't know what he got caught up in. The two compliments each other in their dysfunction and darkness. The two of a hard fought HEA.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2025
“Cruel Revenge” is the third book in the “Cruel Command Series.” It's a dark, seductive, and thrilling mafia romance featuring a fake marriage, forbidden attraction to an ex’s brother, and a scorching quest for revenge.
This dark, steamy, and gripping enemies-to-lovers mafia romance features Joshua Vitale and Skyla Linde. Joshua’s main drug supplier, Grady Granville, announces at their meeting that he is to marry his daughter Emily. “I’m thirty-six, and Emily’s only twenty-three. She’s barely more than a child, Grady. I was through high school when she went into the first grade.” When he threatens their working relationship, he advices Grady that he is already married. Now he needs to find someone to be his pretend wife….
After Grady leaves the club, his “eyes skim the crowd, they land on her, and I freeze. The devil is in the middle of the dance floor, the hem of her black dress creeping up the thighs I’ve thought of draping over my shoulders more than once.” It’s Skyla Lynde herself, his brother’s ex fiancé. She caught his brother Logan cheating on her with her best friend. “Marry me” - to his surprise, she agrees, eventually.
This is suppose to be a business arrangement …. but the walls start to crumble. Even though neither of them can stand each other, they do have chemistry. Joshua knows that Skyla is fiercely independent and stubborn, but also loyal to her family. Can Joshua and Skyla dare to believe in “happily ever after” together? Do they dare open their hearts to each other and fight a common enemy together? Can this fake marriage be more? These questions and more will have you captivated from start to finish! I know I was and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
The story is full of passion, intrigue, betrayal, vengeance, power, control, twists and turns around every corner. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! The book goes through moments of the thoughts or possibilities that it could happen to, to extreme violence to the most beautiful tender moments! I’m very happily hooked! I did not want it to end! From page to page, chapter to chapter, I could not put it down - you will metaphorically be on the edge of your chair! Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
This dark, steamy, and gripping enemies-to-lovers mafia romance features Joshua Vitale and Skyla Linde. Joshua’s main drug supplier, Grady Granville, announces at their meeting that he is to marry his daughter Emily. “I’m thirty-six, and Emily’s only twenty-three. She’s barely more than a child, Grady. I was through high school when she went into the first grade.” When he threatens their working relationship, he advices Grady that he is already married. Now he needs to find someone to be his pretend wife….
After Grady leaves the club, his “eyes skim the crowd, they land on her, and I freeze. The devil is in the middle of the dance floor, the hem of her black dress creeping up the thighs I’ve thought of draping over my shoulders more than once.” It’s Skyla Lynde herself, his brother’s ex fiancé. She caught his brother Logan cheating on her with her best friend. “Marry me” - to his surprise, she agrees, eventually.
This is suppose to be a business arrangement …. but the walls start to crumble. Even though neither of them can stand each other, they do have chemistry. Joshua knows that Skyla is fiercely independent and stubborn, but also loyal to her family. Can Joshua and Skyla dare to believe in “happily ever after” together? Do they dare open their hearts to each other and fight a common enemy together? Can this fake marriage be more? These questions and more will have you captivated from start to finish! I know I was and cannot wait for the next book in the series.
The story is full of passion, intrigue, betrayal, vengeance, power, control, twists and turns around every corner. There is never a dull moment - you will be hooked! The book goes through moments of the thoughts or possibilities that it could happen to, to extreme violence to the most beautiful tender moments! I’m very happily hooked! I did not want it to end! From page to page, chapter to chapter, I could not put it down - you will metaphorically be on the edge of your chair! Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
July 9, 2025
Skyla is still being hounded by her ex, Logan. He is still obsessed with her, even though he is now with her ex-best friend, even more so when she gets a proposition from his brother Joshua.
Joshua has a problem; his business partner, Grady, wants something more permanent between the two of them. Joshua needs to find someone to help him out with the lie that he has told, and he sees just the person, Skyla.
He proposes a partnership with Skyla; he'll help her family out with supplies, if
She keeps up the pretence, keeping Grady off his back. They have to be convincing, otherwise both could be in danger from him.
This may be a business transaction, but the heat between them is immense; they may think that it's purely professional, but emotions come into play, even if they want to deny them.
As well as dealing with Grady and his daughter Emily, they have Logan gunning for Skyla. Logan can't believe she would go with his brother when, according to him, she still 'his'. They also have Zoe Esposito going after the Lynde family. Threats are coming in from all angles, fires that need putting out! But they are still secrets between Skyla and Joshua. Will both of them let their guards down enough to reveal themselves to each other? Will they see what's right in front of them, admit their feelings to each other, or will it be too little, too late?
A fast-paced storyline where threats, lies, secrets, loyalty, love, and darkness weave their way through the book, as well as Joshua and Skyla being hot and passionate with each other.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Joshua has a problem; his business partner, Grady, wants something more permanent between the two of them. Joshua needs to find someone to help him out with the lie that he has told, and he sees just the person, Skyla.
He proposes a partnership with Skyla; he'll help her family out with supplies, if
She keeps up the pretence, keeping Grady off his back. They have to be convincing, otherwise both could be in danger from him.
This may be a business transaction, but the heat between them is immense; they may think that it's purely professional, but emotions come into play, even if they want to deny them.
As well as dealing with Grady and his daughter Emily, they have Logan gunning for Skyla. Logan can't believe she would go with his brother when, according to him, she still 'his'. They also have Zoe Esposito going after the Lynde family. Threats are coming in from all angles, fires that need putting out! But they are still secrets between Skyla and Joshua. Will both of them let their guards down enough to reveal themselves to each other? Will they see what's right in front of them, admit their feelings to each other, or will it be too little, too late?
A fast-paced storyline where threats, lies, secrets, loyalty, love, and darkness weave their way through the book, as well as Joshua and Skyla being hot and passionate with each other.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 10, 2025
I really enjoyed reading this book and will definitely be coming back for more!
Cruel Revenge is the third in the Cruel Command series. Joshua has a business partner trying to marry him off so he claims to be married already. When he sees Skyla dancing at a club, he thinks that she could be the perfect solution. He asks her to enter into a fake marriage with him to solve his problem and in return he will cut her family a deal on his product. Fortunately for Skyla, she can also rub it in her ex's face since he is Joshua's little brother. As they proceed with their arrangement, things between them start to heat up. The problem is that there are a lot of people trying to bring them both down and both Skyla and Joshua are hiding things. They need to decide if their secrets and businesses are going to tear them apart or if they are going to get through it all together.
Skyla is an absolutely wonderful character! I was dying to know more about her after she featured so heavily in book 2 and this book did not disappoint! I loved her fiery attitude and stubborn independence, but I also loved the softer side that she would only show occasionally. Joshua was perfect for her. He could push back against her bratty side, but he also saw past her facade to the person underneath. The banter and bickering that the two of them had was awesome. I did wish that we got to see a little more of Skyla's interactions with her family after the big family dinner scene, but I'm hoping that maybe there will be more in future books. I am definitely looking forward to seeing how the next pairing plays out.
Cruel Revenge is the third in the Cruel Command series. Joshua has a business partner trying to marry him off so he claims to be married already. When he sees Skyla dancing at a club, he thinks that she could be the perfect solution. He asks her to enter into a fake marriage with him to solve his problem and in return he will cut her family a deal on his product. Fortunately for Skyla, she can also rub it in her ex's face since he is Joshua's little brother. As they proceed with their arrangement, things between them start to heat up. The problem is that there are a lot of people trying to bring them both down and both Skyla and Joshua are hiding things. They need to decide if their secrets and businesses are going to tear them apart or if they are going to get through it all together.
Skyla is an absolutely wonderful character! I was dying to know more about her after she featured so heavily in book 2 and this book did not disappoint! I loved her fiery attitude and stubborn independence, but I also loved the softer side that she would only show occasionally. Joshua was perfect for her. He could push back against her bratty side, but he also saw past her facade to the person underneath. The banter and bickering that the two of them had was awesome. I did wish that we got to see a little more of Skyla's interactions with her family after the big family dinner scene, but I'm hoping that maybe there will be more in future books. I am definitely looking forward to seeing how the next pairing plays out.
July 11, 2025
Cruel Revenge is the latest gripping installment in Kira Cole’s Cruel Command series, delivering an intense blend of mafia politics, fake marriage tropes, and high-stakes family drama. This dark romance doesn’t waste time with a slow burn—it dives straight into the fire.
At the heart of the story are Skyla, the strong-willed sister of Lynde crime boss Aiden, and Joshua, the head of a rival criminal empire and older brother to Skyla’s cheating ex-fiancé, Logan. After a brutal betrayal that leaves Skyla emotionally guarded and Logan obsessively possessive, Joshua offers Skyla a way out for both of them: a fake marriage that helps him dodge an unwanted engagement and gives Skyla an escape from her past.
What unfolds is a high-tension, emotionally layered journey as Skyla and Joshua wrestle with complicated family ties, unhealed wounds, and a chemistry that feels anything but fake. The drama between the brothers adds a compelling dynamic, and the web of loyalty, betrayal, and desire makes for a thrilling read.
Kira Cole excels in character development, and Cruel Revenge showcases that skill beautifully. Skyla is fierce yet vulnerable, while Joshua is a perfect blend of power and protectiveness. Their connection is electric, and their evolution as a couple is both believable and satisfying.
This book is a fast-paced page-turner that I couldn’t put down. If you’re a fan of mafia romance with bold characters, a touch of angst, and just the right amount of steam, Cruel Revenge is a must-read.
10/10 – Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At the heart of the story are Skyla, the strong-willed sister of Lynde crime boss Aiden, and Joshua, the head of a rival criminal empire and older brother to Skyla’s cheating ex-fiancé, Logan. After a brutal betrayal that leaves Skyla emotionally guarded and Logan obsessively possessive, Joshua offers Skyla a way out for both of them: a fake marriage that helps him dodge an unwanted engagement and gives Skyla an escape from her past.
What unfolds is a high-tension, emotionally layered journey as Skyla and Joshua wrestle with complicated family ties, unhealed wounds, and a chemistry that feels anything but fake. The drama between the brothers adds a compelling dynamic, and the web of loyalty, betrayal, and desire makes for a thrilling read.
Kira Cole excels in character development, and Cruel Revenge showcases that skill beautifully. Skyla is fierce yet vulnerable, while Joshua is a perfect blend of power and protectiveness. Their connection is electric, and their evolution as a couple is both believable and satisfying.
This book is a fast-paced page-turner that I couldn’t put down. If you’re a fan of mafia romance with bold characters, a touch of angst, and just the right amount of steam, Cruel Revenge is a must-read.
10/10 – Highly recommend!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2025
Cruel Revenge is the 3rd story in the Cruel Command Series and it brings us Skyla and Joshua's story. Joshua's drug supplier has just met with him and given him the ultimatum that he must marry his daughter Emily or their business relationship will be finished, the last thing in the world Joshua would ever do would be to marry Emily, he told him I'm already married and I love her and not going to divorce her. Joshua then he has to convince Skyla that a partnership - a fake marriage, discounted prices on supplies and revenge for her against her ex fiance, Logan’s betrayal sleeping with her best friend! Skyla convinces her brother Aiden that it's a great deal and they go about convincing everyone that their marriage is real. Logan is a DEA agent and Joshua's younger brother, he hasn't given up on Skylah and believes she belongs to him and is trying to find ways to get her away from Joshua, threatening setting up her family and meeting up with dangerous characters that can change their whole world.. Both Skylah and Joshua have secrets and trust issues, they also both have a deep an achingly burning love for each other that neither of them are ready to admit.Yet!
An intense, gripping and captivating storyline that had me absolutely riveted from the very first page until the last, can't wait until I'm reading the next book in the series.
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
An intense, gripping and captivating storyline that had me absolutely riveted from the very first page until the last, can't wait until I'm reading the next book in the series.
I received an advanced reader's copy of this book via BookSprout and I am writing this review voluntarily
July 18, 2025
Cruel Revenge ARC Review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“I may have thought about wringing her neck more than once, but that is my neck to touch, not his.”
I am starting to love toxic couples and them being at each other’s throats (literally 😜). This book was something else. Cruel Revenge is the third book in this Cruel Command Series, and I did not read the first two as this was my introduction to Kira Cole, this book can be read as a stand alone, but for me I want to read Book 1 and 2 to get a better understaing of the family and because I am hooked on Lynde family.
It took me a couple of days to read, and I fell in love with Joshua and Skyla.
Joshua needs someone to marry to get his business partner, Grady, off his back, and he’s pushing him to marry his daughter. And Skyla comes to mind. What’s even better is Joshua is her ex’s brother, and my god is Logan, a snake, who has been harassing her and stalking her after his affair with her best friend.
With this marriage of convenience, they uncover secrets about each other, and Skyla is not who he thinks she is; she is fierce, wicked and a wonderful, foul-mouthed FMC. The secrets they have could destroy them or bring them closer together.
There is murder, chaos, rival mafia family war, hot spice (so good) and even more chaos. They hate each other, but they love the fuck out of each other. This is a five-star read for me, and I don’t want to spoil anything; just go read this.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“I may have thought about wringing her neck more than once, but that is my neck to touch, not his.”
I am starting to love toxic couples and them being at each other’s throats (literally 😜). This book was something else. Cruel Revenge is the third book in this Cruel Command Series, and I did not read the first two as this was my introduction to Kira Cole, this book can be read as a stand alone, but for me I want to read Book 1 and 2 to get a better understaing of the family and because I am hooked on Lynde family.
It took me a couple of days to read, and I fell in love with Joshua and Skyla.
Joshua needs someone to marry to get his business partner, Grady, off his back, and he’s pushing him to marry his daughter. And Skyla comes to mind. What’s even better is Joshua is her ex’s brother, and my god is Logan, a snake, who has been harassing her and stalking her after his affair with her best friend.
With this marriage of convenience, they uncover secrets about each other, and Skyla is not who he thinks she is; she is fierce, wicked and a wonderful, foul-mouthed FMC. The secrets they have could destroy them or bring them closer together.
There is murder, chaos, rival mafia family war, hot spice (so good) and even more chaos. They hate each other, but they love the fuck out of each other. This is a five-star read for me, and I don’t want to spoil anything; just go read this.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout.
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July 25, 2025This author is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I love how she writes these mafia storylines, and she is all about equal opportunity killers in her books. It's not just the men that do all the dirty work and this book, and once you start this book, you can’t put it down!
Joshua and Skyla enter a fake marriage as he doesn't want to be available to marry one of his business partners’ spoiled daughters. Once they enter into their agreement, neither one trusts the other and they both have dark secrets. While others know their secrets, they don't trust one another to disclose to the other. During their fake marriage, there are a lot of bodies turning up dead from rival mafia families and at some point, they realize they need to trust one another.
I loved the character of Skyla, but was not prepared when she disclosed her secret, but loved that it didn't put Joshua off or change how he felt and supported her as she has always felt that no one really stood up for her before.
This was a tension-filled romance and there was so much backstabbing and threats I didn't know where the next threat was going to come from. Underneath it all, this couple had chemistry. If you've read the previous books, you know Skyla's family is very dysfunctional, but that just adds to all the mystery and great character development.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Joshua and Skyla enter a fake marriage as he doesn't want to be available to marry one of his business partners’ spoiled daughters. Once they enter into their agreement, neither one trusts the other and they both have dark secrets. While others know their secrets, they don't trust one another to disclose to the other. During their fake marriage, there are a lot of bodies turning up dead from rival mafia families and at some point, they realize they need to trust one another.
I loved the character of Skyla, but was not prepared when she disclosed her secret, but loved that it didn't put Joshua off or change how he felt and supported her as she has always felt that no one really stood up for her before.
This was a tension-filled romance and there was so much backstabbing and threats I didn't know where the next threat was going to come from. Underneath it all, this couple had chemistry. If you've read the previous books, you know Skyla's family is very dysfunctional, but that just adds to all the mystery and great character development.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 9, 2025
Skyla helps run the family businesses, with her brother Aiden being in charge. However, she finds herself solving the problems since Aiden is usually otherwise engaged when needed. Joshua encounters a delicate business problem, and his only way out is to enter into an arranged marriage with Skyla to resolve it. Or so he thinks, but the problem keeps niggling at him. Skyla also happens to be Joshua's brother Logan's ex, which doesn't help matters. Logan keeps trying to catch them out since he works for the DEA and knows all their secrets. Both Skyla and Joshua are hiding secrets from each other, which seem to be bigger than both of them.
I received an arc for my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love a very dark romance with mafia overtones, then you will love this book. Kira keeps you turning the pages with all the twists and turns that you don't see coming. However, this book may not be for everyone; therefore, read the author's trigger warnings before reading or purchasing this book. Although this is Book Three in the Cruel Command series, it can be read as a standalone.
I received an arc for my voluntary honest review for NN Book Blog. If you love a very dark romance with mafia overtones, then you will love this book. Kira keeps you turning the pages with all the twists and turns that you don't see coming. However, this book may not be for everyone; therefore, read the author's trigger warnings before reading or purchasing this book. Although this is Book Three in the Cruel Command series, it can be read as a standalone.
July 6, 2025
This one was a tinge different that her previous books and was darker in a different way, but as always well written. Kira always builds her characters well and sets the stage beautifully for the continuation of the story as a whole for the series.
Skyla is the face of the family businesses. She’s strong and incredibly intelligent. She runs the Lynde family businesses like the CEO boss babe she is. But deep down she is nothing like her siblings. She was previously engaged to Joshua’s 💩👜 brother Logan who of course is trash and cheated on her. Joshie is in need of a wife to keep from having to marry his “nose candy” suppliers daughter. Who is a complete twit. The story progresses and they actually fall in love but have secrets of their own that they need to come to terms with. I’m not spoiling but Skyla feels seen and accepted for the first time ever.
Such a great read for any first daughter/Type A female!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Skyla is the face of the family businesses. She’s strong and incredibly intelligent. She runs the Lynde family businesses like the CEO boss babe she is. But deep down she is nothing like her siblings. She was previously engaged to Joshua’s 💩👜 brother Logan who of course is trash and cheated on her. Joshie is in need of a wife to keep from having to marry his “nose candy” suppliers daughter. Who is a complete twit. The story progresses and they actually fall in love but have secrets of their own that they need to come to terms with. I’m not spoiling but Skyla feels seen and accepted for the first time ever.
Such a great read for any first daughter/Type A female!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 10, 2025
Cruel Revenge is the third book in the Cruel Command series. This is an enemies to lovers, fake marriage romance. Skyla dreams of a simpler life, one that she can do what she wants instead of sacrificing for the good of a family that doesn’t fully accept her and no longer having to deal with an ex that is determined to put her away. Joshua finds himself in a precarious situation with a business associate, who is making demands Joshua has no intention of fulfilling. Coming up with an idea he hopes will work, he makes Skyla an offer she can’t refuse that will not only help her family and Joshua but will also help her get her revenge. Will this new arrangement with Skyla get Joshua’s business partner off his back? Will Skyla get her revenge or will all her intentions blow up in her face? Will they be able to get along enough to fool everyone or will lines get blurred along the way? This book is full of sass, secrets, lies, danger and lots of spice!!! Can’t wait to see what comes next!!.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 10, 2025
This is the 3rd story in the Cruel Command Series where Skyla’s hands in the family business keeps her busy so when her ex Logan’s brother, Joshua offers her a partnership - a fake marriage, discounted prices on supplies and revenge for her against Logan’s betrayal. Skyla gets her brother Aiden on board so Joshua gets a wife to keep his business partner and his pushy young daughter off his back. When Joshua is threatened if caught lying he and Skyla put on a show to convince him and her family during a party in their honor. Their relationship becomes more than a deal and neither thought it was possible and my do they find something special! Logan is a DEA agent that will not give up his ownership of Skyla and boy does he bring trouble no one saw coming. Their secrets and trust issues bring danger that will keep Skyla and Logan on their toes! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2025
Cruel Revenge, book three in the Cruel Command series follows Skyla Lynde and Joshua Vitale, the older brother to Skyla’s ex fiancé Logan, who also happens to run a rival criminal empire. When Joshua’s business partner Grady keeps trying to set him up and marry him off, he pretends to already be married, but the only problem is, now he needs a “wife”. Skyla has been trying to avoid her ex Logan who is still obsessed with her, even after they broke up and he is now dating her ex best friend. When Joshua asks Skyla for help, a fake marriage, she agrees and in return Joshua will give her brother Aiden a deal on his product. What starts as an innocent arrangement, develops into so much more when real feelings get involved. Will she be able to keep Logan away from her, now that he thinks she’s getting married to someone else? Or will more problems arise when other people try to take both her and Joshua down?
July 14, 2025
Skyla's Story...
Skyla was somewhat of a mystery in the previous books of this series; I could tell though, she was a strong personality, loyal to her family, as well as a good businesswoman. It becomes a lot clearer in this book as her story is told from her perspective as well as Joshua's.
Skyla's tough, she has secrets, and she's trying to hold it all together, although she feels like she just wants to disappear from everything, at times.
While the eldest of the Lynde family, Aiden, is the head of the family, Skyla seems to be the one who holds the family together, while inside she feels like she's never been truly respected or accepted by her siblings.
The world-building and continuation of the Cruel Command series are on point. Be ready to immerse yourself once again in this mafia world. Loved this story!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Skyla was somewhat of a mystery in the previous books of this series; I could tell though, she was a strong personality, loyal to her family, as well as a good businesswoman. It becomes a lot clearer in this book as her story is told from her perspective as well as Joshua's.
Skyla's tough, she has secrets, and she's trying to hold it all together, although she feels like she just wants to disappear from everything, at times.
While the eldest of the Lynde family, Aiden, is the head of the family, Skyla seems to be the one who holds the family together, while inside she feels like she's never been truly respected or accepted by her siblings.
The world-building and continuation of the Cruel Command series are on point. Be ready to immerse yourself once again in this mafia world. Loved this story!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2025
Cruel Revenge by Kira Cole – 4/5 ✨
Dark. Dangerous. Unputdownable.
This book dragged me into the chaos of revenge, power plays, and forbidden tension—and I was so here for it. The writing had that smooth mafia-pull, the kind that makes your heart do weird things.
The FMC? She’s the definition of ice and fire, all wrapped in secrets and silent strength. And the MMC? Broken, brutal, hot with a capital H, and definitely the kind of man you don’t bring home to mama unless mama’s also morally grey. 😌
I loved their dynamic—how it wasn’t clean or sweet, but messy and magnetic. They didn’t just fall in love—they clashed, burned, and bled for it.
Took off a star only because I wanted maybe a bit more depth in certain scenes—but honestly? Still worth every second.
If you're into power-packed tension, dark romance, and characters who are hot and haunted... this is the one.
Dark. Dangerous. Unputdownable.
This book dragged me into the chaos of revenge, power plays, and forbidden tension—and I was so here for it. The writing had that smooth mafia-pull, the kind that makes your heart do weird things.
The FMC? She’s the definition of ice and fire, all wrapped in secrets and silent strength. And the MMC? Broken, brutal, hot with a capital H, and definitely the kind of man you don’t bring home to mama unless mama’s also morally grey. 😌
I loved their dynamic—how it wasn’t clean or sweet, but messy and magnetic. They didn’t just fall in love—they clashed, burned, and bled for it.
Took off a star only because I wanted maybe a bit more depth in certain scenes—but honestly? Still worth every second.
If you're into power-packed tension, dark romance, and characters who are hot and haunted... this is the one.
July 7, 2025
When I say the spice was spicing, just know I mean it! The connection between Joshua and Skyla was hot and extremely intense. Skyla’s independent strong personality clashes with Joshua’s domineering need to be in control and boy is it a match made in heaven! These two were perfect for each other.
I loved Skyla’s strong character and her not needing Joshua but wanting him. She was very capable of taking care of herself despite Joshua insisting on taking care of her and her problems she faced. Joshua’s character was so brooding and insanely passionate as he fought for his relationship with Skyla. All his “my wife” references were swoonworthy.
I really enjoyed the storyline as well as both characters came from a mafia background. They understood each other and their dark pasts as they’ve both been dealt the same turmoils.
I enjoyed this book!
I loved Skyla’s strong character and her not needing Joshua but wanting him. She was very capable of taking care of herself despite Joshua insisting on taking care of her and her problems she faced. Joshua’s character was so brooding and insanely passionate as he fought for his relationship with Skyla. All his “my wife” references were swoonworthy.
I really enjoyed the storyline as well as both characters came from a mafia background. They understood each other and their dark pasts as they’ve both been dealt the same turmoils.
I enjoyed this book!
July 7, 2025
Arc Review
Let’s start with 4 1/2 ⭐️ rating please
Skyla - sibling, mysterious woman, independent
Joshua - Mafia, independent, freedom, non commitment
Dangerous secrets have penalties. What are Skyla and Joshua hiding from each other? This is the only spoiler I will provide.
In order to understand, one must read the series of “Cruel” from the start. Joshua and Skyla had an interesting start. Some fake but also some truth. Both had hidden secrets that were eventually brought forth to one another.
This read was like climbing a mountain. First few steps were okay, gradually increasing your heart rate. By the end you reached the peak and were rewarded.
Steady, steady and then victory.
Gruesome
Volatile
Mafia enemies
Loyalties questioned
Risks/death
Love/‘H’
Siblings 🤨
Awaiting next instalment ent. Wasn’t left on a cliffhanger, but hint to next pathway.
Let’s start with 4 1/2 ⭐️ rating please
Skyla - sibling, mysterious woman, independent
Joshua - Mafia, independent, freedom, non commitment
Dangerous secrets have penalties. What are Skyla and Joshua hiding from each other? This is the only spoiler I will provide.
In order to understand, one must read the series of “Cruel” from the start. Joshua and Skyla had an interesting start. Some fake but also some truth. Both had hidden secrets that were eventually brought forth to one another.
This read was like climbing a mountain. First few steps were okay, gradually increasing your heart rate. By the end you reached the peak and were rewarded.
Steady, steady and then victory.
Gruesome
Volatile
Mafia enemies
Loyalties questioned
Risks/death
Love/‘H’
Siblings 🤨
Awaiting next instalment ent. Wasn’t left on a cliffhanger, but hint to next pathway.
July 10, 2025
Yes Mafia Queen
Revenge mafia romance that had me flying through the pages.
Tropes:
Fake marriage
Ex's brother
Dual POV
"My wife"
Morally-grey FMC and MMC
Skyla is a BA! I love her tough attitude. She definitely a lady boss and I love her. She's morally-grey and is unapologetic about it.
Joshua is so cocky but just the right amount. He's calculating, possessive, and protective. When he says "my wife" ooof have mercy. *swooning*
These two are HOT together. Not only was their attraction to each other fire but the way they banter was spot on. Like magnets, they couldn't stay away from each other. I just love them together.
So much drama with the families, unexpected turns that kept me guessing and interested till the end.
This is book 3 in the series and I can't wait for the next book!
Revenge mafia romance that had me flying through the pages.
Tropes:
Fake marriage
Ex's brother
Dual POV
"My wife"
Morally-grey FMC and MMC
Skyla is a BA! I love her tough attitude. She definitely a lady boss and I love her. She's morally-grey and is unapologetic about it.
Joshua is so cocky but just the right amount. He's calculating, possessive, and protective. When he says "my wife" ooof have mercy. *swooning*
These two are HOT together. Not only was their attraction to each other fire but the way they banter was spot on. Like magnets, they couldn't stay away from each other. I just love them together.
So much drama with the families, unexpected turns that kept me guessing and interested till the end.
This is book 3 in the series and I can't wait for the next book!
August 5, 2025
I love this book, it was well written I couldn't put the book down.
Cruel Revenge is the third in the Cruel Command series.
Joshua enters a fake marriage with Sklya and to top that off she rubs it in her ex's face since he is Joshua's little brother, now that is a bit interesting and I didn't expect that.
So he found the perfect solution for both of them she helped him and he helps her with a cut of his product.
As they continue arrangement, things between them start to heat up, the problem is that there are people who don't want them to be together. They don't know if their secrets and businesses are going to tear them apart or if they are going to get through it all together.
They are beautiful together honestly. I will always be cheering for them
Cruel Revenge is the third in the Cruel Command series.
Joshua enters a fake marriage with Sklya and to top that off she rubs it in her ex's face since he is Joshua's little brother, now that is a bit interesting and I didn't expect that.
So he found the perfect solution for both of them she helped him and he helps her with a cut of his product.
As they continue arrangement, things between them start to heat up, the problem is that there are people who don't want them to be together. They don't know if their secrets and businesses are going to tear them apart or if they are going to get through it all together.
They are beautiful together honestly. I will always be cheering for them
July 8, 2025
This was a very interesting book. There is a lot of surprises and when you think you have read them all this author will throw in another few just to see if you are awake. I loved the relationship chemistry between the MC and the FMC throw in a wild family and you have no idea what is coming your way. There are a few things left hanging that I assume are picked up in the next book as that is the way the series has gone, but you don't feel like the book is unfinished. I couldn't help loving the main characters and even when the book was finished wanted to read a little more of them. We will see how much they come in the other books.
August 8, 2025
Skyla and Joshua’s deal started as a cold, calculated move to screw the ex and dodge some bullshit business drama, but holy hell, it gets messy, and hot, as fuck.... fast. Both of them carrying secrets darker than a moonless night, and the tension between them? Electric enough to fry your brain. Skyla is a badass who doesn’t take shit from anyone, and Joshua’s that dangerous bastard you want to hate but can’t help but root for. The family drama is brutal, the backstabbing, real, and the spice? Jesus, it’s borderline incendiary. Want a fake marriage mafia romance that slaps you across the face with emotional chaos and keeps you turning pages till your eyes bleed, this is it.
July 5, 2025
Cruel Revenge is the third book in the Cruel Command series. Talking about a dark romance! This book is over the top with family drama, all kinds of other drama, unhinged people, a simmering mafia war, suspense, lots of steaminess, a stalking ex, and much more, all while an interesting addiction comes to light. You will not want to put this book down. It has a very captivating storyline and characters who keep you into the story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2025
A great story I love Skyla she's a strong independent female who has some pysho tendences she keeps hidden. Joshua her ex's boyfriend's brother proposes a contract he needs her to cooperate with his insane plan. Slide in the crazy ex-boyfriend and you have the perfect dynamic for trouble. Thay are both hiding some pretty big secrets, secrets that could destroy their newfound relationship. Will the secrets tear them apart or make them stronger? I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2025
Skyla was featured in the previous book of the series, and this is her story. She wants a little bit of revenge on her ex, so when his brother, Joshua, proposes a fake marriage, she is all in. And the book takes off from there. It’s mafia, so there is some moral grayness, but Joshua has honor. Skyla can be a bit of a brat, but Joshua deals with it really well. Their chemistry is good and the author really sold their relationship. I’m not crazy about the “ex’s sibling or parent” trope, but it’s done well in this case so I’m not mad at it.
July 21, 2025
Cruel Revenge is the third in the Cruel Command series and this book does not disappoint. Another captivating and intense story that kept me on the edge of my seat from the first page. Joshua and Skyla enter into a fake marriage in order to help him get out of an unwanted engagement to his business partner's daughter. Secrets are revealed and the lines between real and fake are blurred. This is by far my favorite of the series and I can't wait to read more. Highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2025
This is Book 3 in the Cruel Command Series by this author, and can be read as a standalone. It is a dark mafia romance between Skyla and her ex's brother Joshua. These two flawed but likeable souls and the unique plot make for an intriguing read. What starts out as a fake marriage turns into something more. It is a wild ride with drama and steam, secrets and suspense, sexual tension and chemistry, and twists and turns, plus appealing secondary characters. An engaging page turner.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2025
Skyla Lynde is a true baddy and has finally met her match with Joshua. They make a great team even if their marriage was fake. It is just too bad about the plot. It didn't match why it kept the characters in such a hold and had let some things escalated as afar as it did. Overall, it was still a good book and was more of a 3.5 stars for me.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 8, 2025
Marrying her ex's brother, Joshua was all about revenge, until Skyla thinks its starting to feel real.
These two sure had the connection and chemistry. The attraction was always there but Skyla wanted to get back at her ex, more than anything. Even if it started a war.
Danger, drama and suspense with loads of steam made this a great Mafia themed romance book.
Very well done, it was a book I very much liked. This series has been the best also. Can't wait for more!
These two sure had the connection and chemistry. The attraction was always there but Skyla wanted to get back at her ex, more than anything. Even if it started a war.
Danger, drama and suspense with loads of steam made this a great Mafia themed romance book.
Very well done, it was a book I very much liked. This series has been the best also. Can't wait for more!
July 12, 2025
Wow, these two are a hot mess and I absolutely love them. Total chaos! There is just so much going on it’s hard to keep up. The constant battles around them, against them, between them. It’s just non stop. Somehow through it all, love seems to conquer all. Their kind of love is a crazy kind of passion. That ending though. Didn’t like that. I want to know what and who this means!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 13, 2025
I thought Skyla and Joshua were a wonderful couple. They were amazing together, and their journey included bumps, twists, and turns. There's drama, action, suspense, romance, and plenty of steamy moments. All of this, combined with the author's writing style, made for a captivating story that I found hard to put down.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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