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Roll for Love #1
Initiative
They thought “Cameron” was just another guy to split rent with. Instead, Cami walks in—sarcastic, sharp-eyed, and impossible to ignore. Suddenly their sacred routines, dungeon party dynamics, and carefully stacked mugs are thrown into chaos. She’s off-limits in theory. But the longer she stays, the more she feels like theirs.
Alphabetized spice racks, group chat chaos, late-night dice rolls, and one marriage of convenience later—Cami finds herself in a house where nothing stays platonic for long. Between the stoic paramedic, the quiet tattoo artist, the chaotic bard, and the Dungeon Master with too-knowing eyes, she’s in way over her head—or maybe exactly where she belongs.
Alphabetized spice racks, group chat chaos, late-night dice rolls, and one marriage of convenience later—Cami finds herself in a house where nothing stays platonic for long. Between the stoic paramedic, the quiet tattoo artist, the chaotic bard, and the Dungeon Master with too-knowing eyes, she’s in way over her head—or maybe exactly where she belongs.
Paperback
First published December 15, 2025
About the author
Maelana Nightingale
21 books128 followersBestselling author Maelana Nightingale writes romance that bleeds, breathes, and burns—stories where love is messy, healing is hard, and desire is sacred.
Her novels span contemporary found-family romances, dark and taboo stories, and sweeping romantic fantasy, united by raw emotion and unflinching realism. Known for intimate, character-driven storytelling, her work explores connection, power, and trust in ways that feel lived-in rather than performative—and never shies away from the complicated edges of love.
A nurse by trade and storyteller by soul, she brings authenticity to every page—from medical precision to the psychology of trauma, trust, and connection. When she’s not writing, she’s usually wrangling one of her five children or navigating the controlled chaos of her corporate healthcare day job.
Her novels span contemporary found-family romances, dark and taboo stories, and sweeping romantic fantasy, united by raw emotion and unflinching realism. Known for intimate, character-driven storytelling, her work explores connection, power, and trust in ways that feel lived-in rather than performative—and never shies away from the complicated edges of love.
A nurse by trade and storyteller by soul, she brings authenticity to every page—from medical precision to the psychology of trauma, trust, and connection. When she’s not writing, she’s usually wrangling one of her five children or navigating the controlled chaos of her corporate healthcare day job.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 17, 2025
Never in my life did I think D&D could be so freaking hot! When Cami turns the house upside down, decisions need to be made and choices need to be set in stone. This story made me laugh out loud more times than I could count! But also the perfect kind of spicy!
“I will make you c*** so hard your soul will forget what silence sounds like.”
I mean - come on! Be warned - you will develop a nerd fetish!
“I will make you c*** so hard your soul will forget what silence sounds like.”
I mean - come on! Be warned - you will develop a nerd fetish!
December 11, 2025
Mae knows how to write an emotional and very real poly relationship. Each relationship in the polycule is so thought out and honest. Real discussions about safety and boundaries along with limits and guidance are open and not bashed. The main characters each had different quirks but their banter and chemistry was fantastic. Seeing Cami develop strong relationships with each other was amazing. Then to see the guys become open with their wants of each other, felt very real.
The open and honest look at healthcare and autoimmune disease and how many people live with them everyday, trying to survive.
An absolutely amazing read, cannot wait for books two and three.
The open and honest look at healthcare and autoimmune disease and how many people live with them everyday, trying to survive.
An absolutely amazing read, cannot wait for books two and three.
December 8, 2025
First off thank you for the ARC opportunity!!!
OMG I was hooked from the beginning, I loved the dynamic between the characters it was really well written and such a easy read. The DnD was a fun addition! Cause now I need to find some hot nerdy guys to play with 😏😗
CANNOT WAIT FOR BOOK TWO!!
OMG I was hooked from the beginning, I loved the dynamic between the characters it was really well written and such a easy read. The DnD was a fun addition! Cause now I need to find some hot nerdy guys to play with 😏😗
CANNOT WAIT FOR BOOK TWO!!
April 16, 2026
the idea behind the book is great
I just don’t think it is executed well. It doesn’t read like I think the author wants it to come across. It feels like every interaction is a mini drama and the author wants everyone to sound super insightful and emotionally intelligent and in my opinion it doesn’t come off that way it just comes off as someone trying too hard for those things.
I just don’t think it is executed well. It doesn’t read like I think the author wants it to come across. It feels like every interaction is a mini drama and the author wants everyone to sound super insightful and emotionally intelligent and in my opinion it doesn’t come off that way it just comes off as someone trying too hard for those things.
August 14, 2025
Dungeons & Dragons…hilarious banter…hot, sexy, nerdy guys…ummm, YES, PLEASE!!!! You guys, this book is incredible! I was hooked from the very first page, and devoured it in one day. The premise of this book was so unique and intriguing, with everything revolving around this group of friends and their shared love of this game. Each one of these men brought something so unique to the dynamic, and yet this game was able to unite them all. Our FMC Cameron was independent and quirky, and manages to come in and shake up these guys’ world, while simultaneously fitting in seamlessly with them. And I absolutely love how this author incorporates her medical knowledge into her books. This one hit incredibly close to home for me, having a dad who was diabetic.
With a unique and amazing storyline, interesting characters, hilarious banter (and some group chats that had me rolling lol), and spice that had me fanning myself, this book is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year! I can’t wait for the second book in this trilogy to find out what happens next!!
“If this is a world where I have to choose…I choose you. Every damn time.” ~Griffin
With a unique and amazing storyline, interesting characters, hilarious banter (and some group chats that had me rolling lol), and spice that had me fanning myself, this book is one of my favorite books I’ve read this year! I can’t wait for the second book in this trilogy to find out what happens next!!
“If this is a world where I have to choose…I choose you. Every damn time.” ~Griffin
April 21, 2026
2.5
look im not going to rag on a book with dnd it it probably ever, and I actually liked the real figuring-it-out dynamics and conversation in this book (maaaaasive props for that), but the rest of the dialogue was so repetitive that 50% of the way through I almost dropped it. they switched from either talking serious in a way that was too much waxing poetic for it to be in anyway normal, then talking like how I did to my friends on tumblr when I was sixteen
look im not going to rag on a book with dnd it it probably ever, and I actually liked the real figuring-it-out dynamics and conversation in this book (maaaaasive props for that), but the rest of the dialogue was so repetitive that 50% of the way through I almost dropped it. they switched from either talking serious in a way that was too much waxing poetic for it to be in anyway normal, then talking like how I did to my friends on tumblr when I was sixteen
December 15, 2025
this book…
so amazing.
SLOW BURN WHY CHOOSE BOOK. SPOILERS AHEAD
I love the medical representation in this book. I thought it was greatly portrayed. We see her have money issues and insurance battling before her MOC to Griff. I believe she is a great example of what it’s like for many people with medical issues.
Griff, my baby, is so lovable and I love that he’s an EMT. One thing for future books is his jealousy will be out of control and will mostly call for some DRAMA.
Ronan, dungeon daddy, he is an absolute joy but I’m so sad we didn’t get to see a scene with him and Cami or him with one of the other guys. BUT when Griff had the flashback of when he kissed him without consent or checking in, it lowkey gave me the ick so hopefully book 2 has some redemption.
Micah, sad boy tattoo artist. I love tattoos and the way he be handing out free tats to Cami? WHERE CAN I SIGN UP?? Like my guy was just handing them out for free. I need that in my life. But no seriously, with him being so quiet HE OBSERVES!! the way he domme’d DEX?? so hot. More please.
DEX, I am falling for this man. Sense of humor is one of the best things when looking for a partner. He brings that tenfold! I’m seriously worried about how he is going to be emotionally in book 2, which makes me sad, because of what Griff said. He mentioned therapists multiple time with dark or bad days so I am making the assumption he might be depressed some and I’m going to be so sad for him because of that. My sweet poor baby.
In general, I really loved this book but was very sad at the lack of so many sex scenes between everyone and not just cami and griff. I feel to label it a why choose, it needs to be moreeee why choose..
so amazing.
SLOW BURN WHY CHOOSE BOOK. SPOILERS AHEAD
I love the medical representation in this book. I thought it was greatly portrayed. We see her have money issues and insurance battling before her MOC to Griff. I believe she is a great example of what it’s like for many people with medical issues.
Griff, my baby, is so lovable and I love that he’s an EMT. One thing for future books is his jealousy will be out of control and will mostly call for some DRAMA.
Ronan, dungeon daddy, he is an absolute joy but I’m so sad we didn’t get to see a scene with him and Cami or him with one of the other guys. BUT when Griff had the flashback of when he kissed him without consent or checking in, it lowkey gave me the ick so hopefully book 2 has some redemption.
Micah, sad boy tattoo artist. I love tattoos and the way he be handing out free tats to Cami? WHERE CAN I SIGN UP?? Like my guy was just handing them out for free. I need that in my life. But no seriously, with him being so quiet HE OBSERVES!! the way he domme’d DEX?? so hot. More please.
DEX, I am falling for this man. Sense of humor is one of the best things when looking for a partner. He brings that tenfold! I’m seriously worried about how he is going to be emotionally in book 2, which makes me sad, because of what Griff said. He mentioned therapists multiple time with dark or bad days so I am making the assumption he might be depressed some and I’m going to be so sad for him because of that. My sweet poor baby.
In general, I really loved this book but was very sad at the lack of so many sex scenes between everyone and not just cami and griff. I feel to label it a why choose, it needs to be moreeee why choose..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2025
ARC Review (spoiler-free)
I was expecting funny, smutty chaos—and yes, I absolutely got that—but I also got so much more. Every character feels like they truly belong, as if each one is a piece of a puzzle that only fully makes sense once they all come together. They’re all deeper than the first impression they give, and it’s impossible not to grow a little attached to each of them.
I also loved the D&D element, which almost feels unfair to call a “background,” because it plays such a strong role in what connects them. I don’t play myself, but this book definitely made me want to—especially if it meant being part of that kind of party.
This is only book one, and knowing there’s so much more ahead makes me even more excited to continue their journey. I need book two yesterday… but I suppose now will have to do 😜😂
Thank you so much for the ARC—I genuinely enjoyed every bit of it. ❤️
I was expecting funny, smutty chaos—and yes, I absolutely got that—but I also got so much more. Every character feels like they truly belong, as if each one is a piece of a puzzle that only fully makes sense once they all come together. They’re all deeper than the first impression they give, and it’s impossible not to grow a little attached to each of them.
I also loved the D&D element, which almost feels unfair to call a “background,” because it plays such a strong role in what connects them. I don’t play myself, but this book definitely made me want to—especially if it meant being part of that kind of party.
This is only book one, and knowing there’s so much more ahead makes me even more excited to continue their journey. I need book two yesterday… but I suppose now will have to do 😜😂
Thank you so much for the ARC—I genuinely enjoyed every bit of it. ❤️
December 2, 2025
RELEASE DATE: 12/15/2025
I was hooked immediately! I blew through this book in less than 48 hours, and I’m ready for book 2 of Roll For Love series right now!!! This is a polyamorous romance, in which every character loves or deeply cares for each other. I love every single character, and I can’t wait to see more of them and how their relationships within the group grow. I’m especially looking forward to watching Griffin’s acceptance change and Ronan show us his side of love.
On a very serious note - thank you Nightingale for giving FMC Cameron Type 1 Diabetes. T1DM is a disease that is NOT due to life decisions and cannot be cured. So many people look down on Type 1 without understanding how much it rules (and can easily break) your life. You represented this disease beautifully!
I was hooked immediately! I blew through this book in less than 48 hours, and I’m ready for book 2 of Roll For Love series right now!!! This is a polyamorous romance, in which every character loves or deeply cares for each other. I love every single character, and I can’t wait to see more of them and how their relationships within the group grow. I’m especially looking forward to watching Griffin’s acceptance change and Ronan show us his side of love.
On a very serious note - thank you Nightingale for giving FMC Cameron Type 1 Diabetes. T1DM is a disease that is NOT due to life decisions and cannot be cured. So many people look down on Type 1 without understanding how much it rules (and can easily break) your life. You represented this disease beautifully!
December 15, 2025
ABSOLUTE MUST READ
This book ...
I don't know how it can be so funny and serious at the same time.
These characters are messy, and real, and make mistakes, and act on feelings they don't always think through, and yet somehow they're perfect.
Heavily D&D coded, but not in a way that people that don't play would feel lost, in fact I think it's broken down so well that there is no knowledge of the game needed.
And the way consent and real world talk is handled in the book? Absolute chef's kiss.
Also, the maybe not-so-subtle political statement this book makes about the cost of healthcare in America is there, but handled in a way that is also not completely in your face.
There's so much packed in this why choose ... absolutely amazing.
This book ...
I don't know how it can be so funny and serious at the same time.
These characters are messy, and real, and make mistakes, and act on feelings they don't always think through, and yet somehow they're perfect.
Heavily D&D coded, but not in a way that people that don't play would feel lost, in fact I think it's broken down so well that there is no knowledge of the game needed.
And the way consent and real world talk is handled in the book? Absolute chef's kiss.
Also, the maybe not-so-subtle political statement this book makes about the cost of healthcare in America is there, but handled in a way that is also not completely in your face.
There's so much packed in this why choose ... absolutely amazing.
November 30, 2025
ARC REVIEW ✨️
I'll just say that I liked this book so much that I didn't even realize when I finished it.
Cami is a young woman going through a difficult time. A misunderstanding leads her to live in a house with four men who are Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts. None of them expected what would begin to develop between the five of them, but as the days go by, it becomes impossible to hide their feelings. Flirting, jokes, subtle hints, and a contract that was supposed to be just that—a contract—unleash a torrent of emotions and fears that they will have to confront and address before everything falls apart.
I loved each of the characters and how their personalities, though different, complemented one another. It's a great slow burn, fun, and captivating from the start.
And what a way to leave me wanting more of this story! Now I can't wait for the second book!!
I'll just say that I liked this book so much that I didn't even realize when I finished it.
Cami is a young woman going through a difficult time. A misunderstanding leads her to live in a house with four men who are Dungeons & Dragons enthusiasts. None of them expected what would begin to develop between the five of them, but as the days go by, it becomes impossible to hide their feelings. Flirting, jokes, subtle hints, and a contract that was supposed to be just that—a contract—unleash a torrent of emotions and fears that they will have to confront and address before everything falls apart.
I loved each of the characters and how their personalities, though different, complemented one another. It's a great slow burn, fun, and captivating from the start.
And what a way to leave me wanting more of this story! Now I can't wait for the second book!!
December 8, 2025
I was looking forward to this book and it did not disappoint. We are following Cameron. She is looking for a place and her brother's friend is looking for a roommate. Moving in, she fits into the house dynamics perfectly, the four guys in the house all have an attraction to her chaotic energy. I really enjoy Maelana Nightingale’s writing, it's defined and informative without being too much. The gaming throughout the book had great detail and I felt like I could understand the game. There is lots of banter, flirting and tension to start off the series and I can't wait to see what happens next.
December 16, 2025
Cameron needs a place to stay, and thanks to her brother, she ends up moving in with four hot nerds… who were not expecting their new roommate to be a glitter-covered chaos gremlin. Game nights, D&D, and immediate mutual crushes follow.
None of the guys want to risk their friendship by making the first move—until they realize they don’t have to choose. And maybe their feelings aren’t just for Camie… but for each other too.
If you want why-choose energy, nerdy men with big hearts, nonstop banter, and group-chat chaos, this one needs to be on your list.
None of the guys want to risk their friendship by making the first move—until they realize they don’t have to choose. And maybe their feelings aren’t just for Camie… but for each other too.
If you want why-choose energy, nerdy men with big hearts, nonstop banter, and group-chat chaos, this one needs to be on your list.
December 27, 2025
This is not the type of romance I would normally read but if Maelana Nightingale writes it I'm GOING to read it!!!!
This is like the perfect introduction to why choose romance if you're not typically a why choose reader and the DND aspect was a lot of fun too!!
If you need 4 new book boyfriends then Initiative is a must read all 4 men are swoon worthy and will also make you laugh out loud.
I really enjoyed how the book was not all spice all the time and the book didn't even really get spicy till like 60-70% of the way through. The spice level is usually why I don't like why choose romances but this was very well done!
This is like the perfect introduction to why choose romance if you're not typically a why choose reader and the DND aspect was a lot of fun too!!
If you need 4 new book boyfriends then Initiative is a must read all 4 men are swoon worthy and will also make you laugh out loud.
I really enjoyed how the book was not all spice all the time and the book didn't even really get spicy till like 60-70% of the way through. The spice level is usually why I don't like why choose romances but this was very well done!
November 23, 2025
That book left me wanting for the more the entire time I was reading it!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved the web aspect of it.. everyone being connected. Beautifully written!
I loved everything about this book from the steamy scenes to just the tension that bleeds off the pages.
I loved the realness of it with Cami having an autoimmune disorder and insurance sucking. Just the realness
The guys and their own issues and needs.
Give me more!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved the web aspect of it.. everyone being connected. Beautifully written!
I loved everything about this book from the steamy scenes to just the tension that bleeds off the pages.
I loved the realness of it with Cami having an autoimmune disorder and insurance sucking. Just the realness
The guys and their own issues and needs.
Give me more!
December 12, 2025
This book had me yearning at the thought of getting back with my D&D party and w3anting to play again. It brought me back to a time where in party romance and seeing it blossom into the real world were not to far a part. The Dynamic for a poly relationship is perfectly described and boundaries given shows the true meaning behind making it work. I truly am excited to see where the next journey or the next campaign will take me. Thank you for letting me experience this first hand.
December 15, 2025
I am always here for a why choose with MM, so when I saw this, I snagged it up even though everything I know about D&D can be summarized in 10 words. This hit so much more than that. There are decades old friendships, past tr@um@s, broken hearts, secret pining, decisions made from convenience. And it is mmmeesssyyyy... but in real ways. There are real talks and mistakes and tempers and fears all lived out on page. And then the cliff that I knew I was approaching and then lept off when I turned the page and details for book 2 hit. Whew.
December 2, 2025
Never thought I would actually be into a D&D read but here I am absolutely in love with this book. All four MMC have my heart and the MFC is absolutely incredible in her own way. I have laugh and cried throughout this whole read. The spice is absolutely spicing as well. So desperately ready for more.
December 7, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book!! The banter is top-tier, the angst is real, and the sparks are flying. While I know next to nothing about D&D, this story just pulled me in. You still feel like you are a part of the campaign even if you don’t know how any of it works. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one!!
December 14, 2025
I received this as an ARC in exchange for this honest review. This review is free of spoilers.
I freaking LOVED this book. It's obviously very coded for DnD people but I think it's still accessible for anyone without a background in the game. A why-choose web full of deep emotions, really amazing communication, and some damn good spice. So so so good and I can't wait for the next one.
I freaking LOVED this book. It's obviously very coded for DnD people but I think it's still accessible for anyone without a background in the game. A why-choose web full of deep emotions, really amazing communication, and some damn good spice. So so so good and I can't wait for the next one.
November 22, 2025
This is a great book one to what should be a great series! Hate that I’ll have to wait for the next book! Loved all of the characters and how they are connecting together so far. The little bit of spice we got was great just wish there had been more so I have high hopes for the next book!
Who knew that D&D could be hot?
Who knew that D&D could be hot?
December 9, 2025
A hot nerdy why choose! I am sat when I tell you I absolutely love me a why choose! Why have 1 when you can have 2 or 4. This book was so good. The way she but the diabetes in the book and me with a lot of family that’s diabetic I absolutely appreciated this! Thank you for another good read. I am so exited to the rest of the trilogy!
November 29, 2025
This book is packed full of banter, steamy romance, and nerdy fun. It’s a book I didn’t know I needed till I read it and am excited to read more of Maelana’s books.
December 14, 2025
4.5 My only knowledge of D&D is what’s on Big Bang Theory, but this book has me beyond hooked. The amount of space it consumed and still consumes in my head is unbelievable.
December 4, 2025
This was interesting but oh soo good.. like the way it starts and then the secrets just had me hooked like what’s next
You def want to read this but just know this is another book where I felt I was left on a cliffhanger and I need more like asap
You def want to read this but just know this is another book where I felt I was left on a cliffhanger and I need more like asap
December 18, 2025
Interesting story. Never was into D & D but not a problem for this story. Good pace, but ending leaves you wanting to know what happens next.
December 30, 2025
I’ve read quite a few why choose books, but none as deep and emotionally complex as this one. The only reason this isn’t five stars is because I’m anxiously waiting for the group dynamics to start, but the way everything builds slowly, respectfully, sweetly, thoughtfully, and safely are magic in itself.
February 27, 2026
This book really leaned all the way into the Dungeons & Dragons vibe and honestly? I didn't know a single thing about the game going in, but somehow I walked away feeling like I learned something about it. It was woven in so naturally that it never felt overwhelming, just immersive in the best way.
The group dynamic was everything to me. I thrive on a little chaos, and this group? Pure, unfiltered chaos but the loyal kind. The ride-or-die, we're insane but we're insane together kind. Their devotion to each other was so genuine it made all the madness feel grounded.
And Griffin? Immediately my favorite. The way he showed up for Cami, no hesitation, no ego just steady and willing to help had me locked in.
Also, I will not be taking questions about how much I loved the "dungeon daddy" nickname. Because I loved it. End of discussion.
The group dynamic was everything to me. I thrive on a little chaos, and this group? Pure, unfiltered chaos but the loyal kind. The ride-or-die, we're insane but we're insane together kind. Their devotion to each other was so genuine it made all the madness feel grounded.
And Griffin? Immediately my favorite. The way he showed up for Cami, no hesitation, no ego just steady and willing to help had me locked in.
Also, I will not be taking questions about how much I loved the "dungeon daddy" nickname. Because I loved it. End of discussion.
December 17, 2025
~ ARC Review ~
Far out... talk about a nerdy slow burn romance! This book was so freaking good! The story flowed effortlessly, the characters were well constructed, and it held my attention in such a way that I was sacrificing sleep for the sake of reading more! It honestly felt like I was watching a movie unravel before my eyes.
I instantly fell in love with our FMC, Cameron (Cami), and her beautifully unapologetic nature. Despite living with a chronic illness, Cami doesn't let it dull her spark. Instead, she completely upends the household rules and routines of the four nerdy men she's just moved in with: Griffin, Ronan, Dex, and Micah. The one rule she's not allowed to bend or break?
Game night on Thursdays. Always.
I absolutely loved the Dungeons & Dragons references and jokes scattered throughout the book. As an avid lover of role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3, I found this book truly spoke to my inner nerd!
Overall, this book had everything I could have asked for: hot nerds, nat 20s, and a slow burn that seriously put my patience to the test! With various twists and turns, this book ended with a solid cliffhanger that had me dying to know what happens next!! I can't wait to read more from this author! A well-deserved 5/5 stars!
Far out... talk about a nerdy slow burn romance! This book was so freaking good! The story flowed effortlessly, the characters were well constructed, and it held my attention in such a way that I was sacrificing sleep for the sake of reading more! It honestly felt like I was watching a movie unravel before my eyes.
I instantly fell in love with our FMC, Cameron (Cami), and her beautifully unapologetic nature. Despite living with a chronic illness, Cami doesn't let it dull her spark. Instead, she completely upends the household rules and routines of the four nerdy men she's just moved in with: Griffin, Ronan, Dex, and Micah. The one rule she's not allowed to bend or break?
Game night on Thursdays. Always.
I absolutely loved the Dungeons & Dragons references and jokes scattered throughout the book. As an avid lover of role-playing games like Baldur's Gate 3, I found this book truly spoke to my inner nerd!
Overall, this book had everything I could have asked for: hot nerds, nat 20s, and a slow burn that seriously put my patience to the test! With various twists and turns, this book ended with a solid cliffhanger that had me dying to know what happens next!! I can't wait to read more from this author! A well-deserved 5/5 stars!
April 25, 2026
This is the book I needed that I never seen coming. OMG. I was in such a slump and this pulled me right out of it. I’m not the type to want to read slow burn with a ton of drama but I guess this book just hits differently.
I don’t think it should really get my full 5 stars but 4.5 for sure. I’m still not a fan of all the drama it gets a little much but at least it’s not dramatic drama if that makes sense.
I don’t think it should really get my full 5 stars but 4.5 for sure. I’m still not a fan of all the drama it gets a little much but at least it’s not dramatic drama if that makes sense.
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