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Violent Circle #3
Clean Start
Everyone knows the rumors about Violet Circle and the crazy inhabitants, but becoming a resident was my best option. These are the kind of decisions you’re faced with when you have a baby at eighteen, and your knight in shining armor turns out to be a deadbeat dad in saggy boxers.
Don’t get me wrong, my five-year-old son, Aiden, is the love of my life, even when he’s telling random strangers I’m constipated, or lecturing his preschool friends on the differences in their anatomy. I wouldn’t trade him for anything, but raising him as a single parent while cleaning motel rooms for a living is like walking a balance beam made of sand. One wrong slip, and we’re homeless.
It doesn’t take us long to adjust to our new home with all its eccentric people, and Aiden is happy here, but danger lurks right across the street. Not in the apartment of the odd woman who always wears a floppy sun hat and trench coat, or the crazy apartment full of college kids. I wish it were that simple.
Neal Chambers, the single father who is ten years my senior, sets off alarms in my head.
Mainly because he sets off other things in my panties.
Don’t get me wrong, my five-year-old son, Aiden, is the love of my life, even when he’s telling random strangers I’m constipated, or lecturing his preschool friends on the differences in their anatomy. I wouldn’t trade him for anything, but raising him as a single parent while cleaning motel rooms for a living is like walking a balance beam made of sand. One wrong slip, and we’re homeless.
It doesn’t take us long to adjust to our new home with all its eccentric people, and Aiden is happy here, but danger lurks right across the street. Not in the apartment of the odd woman who always wears a floppy sun hat and trench coat, or the crazy apartment full of college kids. I wish it were that simple.
Neal Chambers, the single father who is ten years my senior, sets off alarms in my head.
Mainly because he sets off other things in my panties.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 22, 2018
310 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Shade
42 books1,669 followersS.M. Shade writes spicy romantic comedies and steamy contemporary romances with relatable characters. Whether it's a good laugh or a good cry, she likes to grab you by your emotions and make you feel.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
An unashamed Croc enthusiast and poetry nerd, she can usually be found listening to Indie Rock on repeat and watching birds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
August 26, 2018
So first and foremost let's start with the fact that this romance book has a toilet brush on the cover. How wonderfully crazy and unique and it just screams ROMCOM !!!! And let me tell you, S.M. Shade brings the funny. I think this might be the funniest out of the 3 books in this series. PS You can read them as standalones but I do say read them all.
In this one we have two single parents Neal and Veronica. Both have been dealt the shitty ex hands and are now on their own. They are neighbors and happen to live in one very colorful neighborhood known Violet Circle coined Violent Circle as a joke by the locals. The shenanigans in the particular complex they live in will have you laughing so loud your sides hurt.
There's a ten year age difference between these two which also makes this deliciously good. Neal is definitely a DILF, he's an all around great guy dealing with a blossoming preteen which makes for some hilarious moments. Veronica is making ends meet with a rambunctious 4 year old who literally needs to be on that show Kids say the darnedest things.
Between all the laughs in this one is a romance between these two which is so sweet and cute. You just can't help but cheer for these two together.
I loved this book and the cast of characters. Hysterically funny and adorably cute, Clean Start is a must read.
In this one we have two single parents Neal and Veronica. Both have been dealt the shitty ex hands and are now on their own. They are neighbors and happen to live in one very colorful neighborhood known Violet Circle coined Violent Circle as a joke by the locals. The shenanigans in the particular complex they live in will have you laughing so loud your sides hurt.
There's a ten year age difference between these two which also makes this deliciously good. Neal is definitely a DILF, he's an all around great guy dealing with a blossoming preteen which makes for some hilarious moments. Veronica is making ends meet with a rambunctious 4 year old who literally needs to be on that show Kids say the darnedest things.
Between all the laughs in this one is a romance between these two which is so sweet and cute. You just can't help but cheer for these two together.
I loved this book and the cast of characters. Hysterically funny and adorably cute, Clean Start is a must read.
October 23, 2018
3.5 Stars.
This is my first S.M. Shade book. You can read the books out of order and I understood the book even though this is the 3rd book in the series.
If you want a feel-good book with low angst, then I believe this series is for you.
I love me a good single parent book and when you throw in two single parents well I am going to be a happy camper.
This is about Neal and Veronica, two single parents living in a government assistant building. They have blue-collar jobs, work hard and love their kids. Neal has a pre-teen daughter and Veronica has a 5-year-old son, so naturally they help each other out. Since Veronica can be a mother figure for his daughter and Neal can be a father figure for Veronica’s son.
However, they don’t want to mess up the relationship by getting into a romantic relationship so they remain friends, but nothing is as simple as it seems.
The book has humor and some parts I laughed out loud. And to my surprise the book was steamy. I liked that, just didn’t expect it with the cover (I’m happy about the no-abs on the cover, thanks).
Overall, it’s a sweet book. I wouldn’t say there was anything wrong with the story, I just found it a bit boring at times once the tension was gone. I felt like there should have been a secondary storyline to bring the book along. Other than that, it was a sweet light read.
This is my first S.M. Shade book. You can read the books out of order and I understood the book even though this is the 3rd book in the series.
If you want a feel-good book with low angst, then I believe this series is for you.
I love me a good single parent book and when you throw in two single parents well I am going to be a happy camper.
This is about Neal and Veronica, two single parents living in a government assistant building. They have blue-collar jobs, work hard and love their kids. Neal has a pre-teen daughter and Veronica has a 5-year-old son, so naturally they help each other out. Since Veronica can be a mother figure for his daughter and Neal can be a father figure for Veronica’s son.
However, they don’t want to mess up the relationship by getting into a romantic relationship so they remain friends, but nothing is as simple as it seems.
The book has humor and some parts I laughed out loud. And to my surprise the book was steamy. I liked that, just didn’t expect it with the cover (I’m happy about the no-abs on the cover, thanks).
Overall, it’s a sweet book. I wouldn’t say there was anything wrong with the story, I just found it a bit boring at times once the tension was gone. I felt like there should have been a secondary storyline to bring the book along. Other than that, it was a sweet light read.
November 11, 2018
Release Date: July 22, 2018
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Actual Rating:
This is my favorite book of the series! Clean Start is the third book in the Violent Circle romantic comedy series but can be read as a standalone. All the books in the series can actually standalone so feel free to read them in any order you like.
Anyway, this book had me laughing out loud HARD. So hard that I had tears in my eyes because I couldn't stop giggling! It's truly a breath of fresh air- one that may have taken me out of my reading slump (fingers crossed). If you are in need of a pick me up, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Clean Start. This is a quick read, one that can easily be read in one sitting, and will have you laughing the whole way through.
Veronica and Neal are both single parents who live in Violent Circle. As anyone knows, it takes a village to raise a child, so these two come together as friends and help out each other when needed. Neal's daughter Bailey for instance, really needed some womanly advice when she got her first period, so Veronica was there to teach her what to do and what would make her feel better. Had it not been for Veronica's help, Bailey's dad would have rushed her to the ER for "bleeding" because he didn't know what to do (giggle). Then we have Aiden. He's Veronica's five year old son. He loves him mom and all but has questions only men can answer. Like, why his penis gets big sometimes and where do babies come from. Neal, being a great friend to Veronica is there to help with these types of questions. It isn't always pretty, but it's nice that these two can be there for each other, and each others kids when in need.
Being together as often as these two it's pretty easy to see that they not only make good friends but possibly something more. And within this book, readers will see how these two navigate friendship, parenthood, and love. It's not cheesy, it's not unoriginal, and it's not boring. It's a fun filled story that will make you smile and laugh out loud from page one all the way to the end.
This book would be perfect for
- Fans of single parent romances
- Fans of Romantic Comedies
- Fans of friends to lovers romances
- anyone who needs a laugh
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Actual Rating:
This is my favorite book of the series! Clean Start is the third book in the Violent Circle romantic comedy series but can be read as a standalone. All the books in the series can actually standalone so feel free to read them in any order you like.
Anyway, this book had me laughing out loud HARD. So hard that I had tears in my eyes because I couldn't stop giggling! It's truly a breath of fresh air- one that may have taken me out of my reading slump (fingers crossed). If you are in need of a pick me up, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Clean Start. This is a quick read, one that can easily be read in one sitting, and will have you laughing the whole way through.
Veronica and Neal are both single parents who live in Violent Circle. As anyone knows, it takes a village to raise a child, so these two come together as friends and help out each other when needed. Neal's daughter Bailey for instance, really needed some womanly advice when she got her first period, so Veronica was there to teach her what to do and what would make her feel better. Had it not been for Veronica's help, Bailey's dad would have rushed her to the ER for "bleeding" because he didn't know what to do (giggle). Then we have Aiden. He's Veronica's five year old son. He loves him mom and all but has questions only men can answer. Like, why his penis gets big sometimes and where do babies come from. Neal, being a great friend to Veronica is there to help with these types of questions. It isn't always pretty, but it's nice that these two can be there for each other, and each others kids when in need.
Being together as often as these two it's pretty easy to see that they not only make good friends but possibly something more. And within this book, readers will see how these two navigate friendship, parenthood, and love. It's not cheesy, it's not unoriginal, and it's not boring. It's a fun filled story that will make you smile and laugh out loud from page one all the way to the end.
This book would be perfect for
- Fans of single parent romances
- Fans of Romantic Comedies
- Fans of friends to lovers romances
- anyone who needs a laugh
July 11, 2018
Friggin heck did I enjoy this book!
S.M Shade is a comic genius. It always amazes me how she can have you laughing your arse off one moment, then squirming in your seat with sexual tension the next.
“Clean Start” is the third book and as far as I know, the final instalment. This is by far my favourite. The cover alone had me cracking up. Who puts a toilet brush on the cover of their new book? 🤣😂🤣😂
The novel revolves around single mum Veronica, 23 and 5yr old son Aiden. Single dad Neal, 33 and teenage daughter Bailey.
My favourite scene was probably Neals reaction to Bailey taking her period. I also laughed till I cried at Neals moms antics.
Neal and Veronica are steamy hot! Although Veronica dirty talk could use a little work 😂
A well deserved 5* from me!
S.M Shade is a comic genius. It always amazes me how she can have you laughing your arse off one moment, then squirming in your seat with sexual tension the next.
“Clean Start” is the third book and as far as I know, the final instalment. This is by far my favourite. The cover alone had me cracking up. Who puts a toilet brush on the cover of their new book? 🤣😂🤣😂
The novel revolves around single mum Veronica, 23 and 5yr old son Aiden. Single dad Neal, 33 and teenage daughter Bailey.
My favourite scene was probably Neals reaction to Bailey taking her period. I also laughed till I cried at Neals moms antics.
Neal and Veronica are steamy hot! Although Veronica dirty talk could use a little work 😂
A well deserved 5* from me!
August 11, 2018
I loved this book! Yep..me, the queen 1 & 0 stars found something she finally liked. Ven & Neal are an amazing couple but for me, when a story has a cute kid or two (Aiden, I want to adopt you!!!) and laugh-out moments, it's a hit for me!
“Mom,” he whispers. “The clock says seven, and I might die if I don’t eat pancakes.”
"I don’t think anyone ever died from a lack of pancakes, Ade.”
“Do you really want to risk it?”
-----
“Dude, you have to stop shaking your butt at people,” I tell him as we’re getting in the car. “It’s weird.”
“Well, you said I can’t tell him to kiss it.”
------
“God, it’s going to be every month,” she groans as we climb back into my car. “I wish I was a boy.”
“Nah, can you imagine how annoying having a penis and testicles must be?”
She giggles. “That’s true. They must get in the way. I wonder if they ever sit on them.”
“That’s a question I’d pay to hear you ask your dad,” I laugh.
Safety: No OW/OM drama & safe.
“Mom,” he whispers. “The clock says seven, and I might die if I don’t eat pancakes.”
"I don’t think anyone ever died from a lack of pancakes, Ade.”
“Do you really want to risk it?”
-----
“Dude, you have to stop shaking your butt at people,” I tell him as we’re getting in the car. “It’s weird.”
“Well, you said I can’t tell him to kiss it.”
------
“God, it’s going to be every month,” she groans as we climb back into my car. “I wish I was a boy.”
“Nah, can you imagine how annoying having a penis and testicles must be?”
She giggles. “That’s true. They must get in the way. I wonder if they ever sit on them.”
“That’s a question I’d pay to hear you ask your dad,” I laugh.
Safety: No OW/OM drama & safe.
July 17, 2018
To be honest, I think S.M. Shade is the only author that can get away putting a toilet brush on a book cover, haha. This cover fits the trilogy perfectly!
The final installment of this trilogy is about Neal and Veronica. Both of them live in Violet Circle. It's not the best neighborhood, but it's something they can afford. Just like in the other two books, the management is still nuts and doing a lot of things that aren't allowed. Neal is planning on helping them and gets a lawyer to check everything out. Veronica just moved in with her five year old son and is doing her best. As a single mom, it isn't easy, but she's making it work.
Neal is a character we have read about in the other two books, so I was happy when I read he would be getting his story. He is a single father to his eleven year old daughter and is slowly figuring out what it will mean to have a teenager. His life in Violent Circle is always interesting, but he's been working hard and may be leaving soon.
Neal and Veronica become good friends and help each other when it comes to their children. Both of them are missing a parent of course, so the helping hand is really imporant. For example, when Neal wanted to take his daughter to the emergency room when she starts her period, haha. Or Veronica has to explain why there is a fake penis stuck to the bathroom wall when she's cleaning a hotel room. These are only a few of the many hilarious moments his book has to offer.
Clean Start makes you laugh out loud and hope that the characters get their happily ever after. Both Neal and Veronica don't want to give in to their attraction, because they know what their children will lose if they end up breaking up. Along the way, with some help from Violent Circle, they realize they can look out for themselves at times as well. Their children know more than they realize. If you want to read a book with wonderful characters and neighbors that are willing to fight for eachother, this is the series for you. On top of that, laughing out loud moments and some romance as well. I'm sad this is the last installment in this anything but normal neighborhood. I hope the author visits these characters again in the future.
The final installment of this trilogy is about Neal and Veronica. Both of them live in Violet Circle. It's not the best neighborhood, but it's something they can afford. Just like in the other two books, the management is still nuts and doing a lot of things that aren't allowed. Neal is planning on helping them and gets a lawyer to check everything out. Veronica just moved in with her five year old son and is doing her best. As a single mom, it isn't easy, but she's making it work.
Neal is a character we have read about in the other two books, so I was happy when I read he would be getting his story. He is a single father to his eleven year old daughter and is slowly figuring out what it will mean to have a teenager. His life in Violent Circle is always interesting, but he's been working hard and may be leaving soon.
Neal and Veronica become good friends and help each other when it comes to their children. Both of them are missing a parent of course, so the helping hand is really imporant. For example, when Neal wanted to take his daughter to the emergency room when she starts her period, haha. Or Veronica has to explain why there is a fake penis stuck to the bathroom wall when she's cleaning a hotel room. These are only a few of the many hilarious moments his book has to offer.
Clean Start makes you laugh out loud and hope that the characters get their happily ever after. Both Neal and Veronica don't want to give in to their attraction, because they know what their children will lose if they end up breaking up. Along the way, with some help from Violent Circle, they realize they can look out for themselves at times as well. Their children know more than they realize. If you want to read a book with wonderful characters and neighbors that are willing to fight for eachother, this is the series for you. On top of that, laughing out loud moments and some romance as well. I'm sad this is the last installment in this anything but normal neighborhood. I hope the author visits these characters again in the future.
July 23, 2018
Laugh until you cry and then laugh some more.
I laughed until I cried and my ribs freaking hurt.
I'm sad this is the end of Violent Circle but, what a freaking ending. I laughed and laughed and laughed. The characters, Veronica and Neal were hilarious, and Aiden was beyond hilarious! I could not get over it. The things that came out of that boys mouth had me rolling.
I can relate so, so much with Veronica and Neal, even though I'm not a single parent. Being a parent is hard as hell, period. And S.M. Shades captured everything parenthood in this book.
I FLOVED it.
I laughed until I cried and my ribs freaking hurt.
I'm sad this is the end of Violent Circle but, what a freaking ending. I laughed and laughed and laughed. The characters, Veronica and Neal were hilarious, and Aiden was beyond hilarious! I could not get over it. The things that came out of that boys mouth had me rolling.
I can relate so, so much with Veronica and Neal, even though I'm not a single parent. Being a parent is hard as hell, period. And S.M. Shades captured everything parenthood in this book.
I FLOVED it.
July 22, 2018
4.5 laugh out loud stars!! True to this series, I could not stop laughing. Hilarious!!
This is the third book of the “Violent Circle” series. It can be read as a stand alone.
This is a book about two single parents living in Violent Circle. Two single parents who found each other but can’t seem to take that step.
There were so many hilarious parts to this book. Here are my faves. The first one was the “sundae” part. No details just know I was dying. Second one is the period fiasco!! And finally Holly went wild!! Don’t worry there were many others too.
Let me say I think Neal is so damn perfect a great father, a great friend and a great lover! Bailey is a sweetie and I adore her. Veronica is also a great mother and such a cool girl. My favorite person is Aiden. That little boy cracks me up!! Also, who doesn’t love the Frat Hell group!
This book is a very funny romance. My only issue is parts of the book didn’t feel cohesive just kind of felt like things were put in to be funny but didn’t flow as well. With that being said this author did an excellent job of making you feel like you live on Violent Circle. I definitely want to party with these fools!! This is a funny as hell, quick summer read you will not want to miss out on!!
**i received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
This is the third book of the “Violent Circle” series. It can be read as a stand alone.
This is a book about two single parents living in Violent Circle. Two single parents who found each other but can’t seem to take that step.
There were so many hilarious parts to this book. Here are my faves. The first one was the “sundae” part. No details just know I was dying. Second one is the period fiasco!! And finally Holly went wild!! Don’t worry there were many others too.
Let me say I think Neal is so damn perfect a great father, a great friend and a great lover! Bailey is a sweetie and I adore her. Veronica is also a great mother and such a cool girl. My favorite person is Aiden. That little boy cracks me up!! Also, who doesn’t love the Frat Hell group!
This book is a very funny romance. My only issue is parts of the book didn’t feel cohesive just kind of felt like things were put in to be funny but didn’t flow as well. With that being said this author did an excellent job of making you feel like you live on Violent Circle. I definitely want to party with these fools!! This is a funny as hell, quick summer read you will not want to miss out on!!
**i received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest review**
July 24, 2018
Neal and Veronica what a fabulously funny sweet single parent story!
Neal Chambers is a 33 year old single father to Bailey his 12 year old daughter and Veronica is the newest neighbor in the Violent Circle she is a 23 year old mom trying to keep her head above water with her spunky smart 5 year old son Aiden.
It is never dull in this neighborhood and they may not have a lot of money but they do have a vast selection of wildly different neighbors that are all living in this area out of need but they always make the most of it and have each other's back!
Neal is the manager of the local car wash and has been saving to buy it and a house. Living in the circle makes sense. He is well on his way to his dream but has not found that special someone to share it with. Veronica sees the way that other women gawk at Neal who could resist. Hot Dad Bod Alert , but when they finally get to know each other it soon becomes to tempting to resist more than a friendship!!
they are awkward, cute, sexy and oh so funny ! Loved them !!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Neal Chambers is a 33 year old single father to Bailey his 12 year old daughter and Veronica is the newest neighbor in the Violent Circle she is a 23 year old mom trying to keep her head above water with her spunky smart 5 year old son Aiden.
It is never dull in this neighborhood and they may not have a lot of money but they do have a vast selection of wildly different neighbors that are all living in this area out of need but they always make the most of it and have each other's back!
Neal is the manager of the local car wash and has been saving to buy it and a house. Living in the circle makes sense. He is well on his way to his dream but has not found that special someone to share it with. Veronica sees the way that other women gawk at Neal who could resist. Hot Dad Bod Alert , but when they finally get to know each other it soon becomes to tempting to resist more than a friendship!!
they are awkward, cute, sexy and oh so funny ! Loved them !!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
July 24, 2018
Add this book to your tbr list right now because S.M. Shade gave us another fantastic addition to the Violent Circle series. It was also a great way to end it.
I loved Veronica and Neil. And the story wouldn't have been half as awesome if it weren't for their kids, Aiden and Bailey. This was just one of those great stories that had me smiling so much as I read. It was heartwarming and reminded me why I love single parent books. Whether it's just one parent with a child or both, I always look forward to some fun antics from the kids and Bailey and Aiden definitely delivered.
Clean Start also had some great steamy moments to give me those very adult scenes I need in my romance.
As much as I loved this story, I'm sad to see it end. Now I'm just going to hold on to my secret hope that maybe the rest of the Frat Hell guys are going to get their own spin-off series.
March 13, 2021
Slapstick has never been so sexy.
I laughed so hard I cried. About 60% of the way into the book, S.M. Shade takes a brief turn to slapstick humor, and I could barely catch a breath. Think I Love Lucy with a little hanky panky and where the embarrassing moments are equally shared between Lucy and Ricky.
Although this book is in the middle of the Violent Circle series by S.M. Shade, it was the first one that I read because the blurb appealed to me, as did the theme with the single parents falling in love and all the eccentric neighbors. It was a true gem, and in my opinion, far and away the best of the series.
As an aside, I skipped book one, DNF'd book two, and finished books four and five because I liked the characters. The rest of the books have a strong young adult vibe, which is blessedly missing in book three because of the age of one of the main characters and their circumstances as parents when the book begins. Truthfully, it is the fact that they are parents that lends such humor to Clean Start. Between the hijinks of sneaking in the sexy times and the utterly hilarious endeavors of Veronica's five-year-old son, I grinned - and laughed out loud - nearly all the way through this book. Just remember, five-year-olds have no filter. And they question everything. And they have the most interesting observations.
The other strong appeal of this book, and the entire series, is the financial circumstances of the characters, which is definitely on the poor side, and is shared by all their neighbors in this low-income housing community. Since I live in a poor, mid-sized city in the Rust Belt, so much about this book felt familiar. S.M. Shade could have been describing any number of housing communities that made up the fabric of my job working in local government. It wasn't until I read the fourth or fifth book that I found out she was referencing a housing area just outside Paducah, Kentucky, and it was so ironic that I had made my first visit to Paducah just last year and my husband and I remarked on how it seemed so similar to our hometown, but maybe had seen even harder times. The comments on living a breath away from homelessness and how important a steady job and a steady car can be, minimal though they may be, was so true. Sometimes you have to work the job that isn't your dream job - like cleaning motel bathrooms (yes, Shade manages to source some humor there) and spraying the mud off car tires - but you do what you have to do to make ends meet. I grew up in a home where we couldn't afford to buy groceries until payday and my dad was underemployed for years after he was laid off from a factory job. Hail to the author who decides to write a story that doesn't involve billionaires or bikers. These little touches about life struggles in a low-income community pervade the story, and feel very authentic, but there is a strong hopeful and positive vibe, backed up by a crowd of whacky neighbors who are wonderful. Lack of money means a lack of a lot of things, but not love, happiness and humor.
I guarantee something, somewhere in this book will make you laugh.
I laughed so hard I cried. About 60% of the way into the book, S.M. Shade takes a brief turn to slapstick humor, and I could barely catch a breath. Think I Love Lucy with a little hanky panky and where the embarrassing moments are equally shared between Lucy and Ricky.
Although this book is in the middle of the Violent Circle series by S.M. Shade, it was the first one that I read because the blurb appealed to me, as did the theme with the single parents falling in love and all the eccentric neighbors. It was a true gem, and in my opinion, far and away the best of the series.
As an aside, I skipped book one, DNF'd book two, and finished books four and five because I liked the characters. The rest of the books have a strong young adult vibe, which is blessedly missing in book three because of the age of one of the main characters and their circumstances as parents when the book begins. Truthfully, it is the fact that they are parents that lends such humor to Clean Start. Between the hijinks of sneaking in the sexy times and the utterly hilarious endeavors of Veronica's five-year-old son, I grinned - and laughed out loud - nearly all the way through this book. Just remember, five-year-olds have no filter. And they question everything. And they have the most interesting observations.
The other strong appeal of this book, and the entire series, is the financial circumstances of the characters, which is definitely on the poor side, and is shared by all their neighbors in this low-income housing community. Since I live in a poor, mid-sized city in the Rust Belt, so much about this book felt familiar. S.M. Shade could have been describing any number of housing communities that made up the fabric of my job working in local government. It wasn't until I read the fourth or fifth book that I found out she was referencing a housing area just outside Paducah, Kentucky, and it was so ironic that I had made my first visit to Paducah just last year and my husband and I remarked on how it seemed so similar to our hometown, but maybe had seen even harder times. The comments on living a breath away from homelessness and how important a steady job and a steady car can be, minimal though they may be, was so true. Sometimes you have to work the job that isn't your dream job - like cleaning motel bathrooms (yes, Shade manages to source some humor there) and spraying the mud off car tires - but you do what you have to do to make ends meet. I grew up in a home where we couldn't afford to buy groceries until payday and my dad was underemployed for years after he was laid off from a factory job. Hail to the author who decides to write a story that doesn't involve billionaires or bikers. These little touches about life struggles in a low-income community pervade the story, and feel very authentic, but there is a strong hopeful and positive vibe, backed up by a crowd of whacky neighbors who are wonderful. Lack of money means a lack of a lot of things, but not love, happiness and humor.
I guarantee something, somewhere in this book will make you laugh.
July 7, 2018
What A Wonderfully Romantic Giggle-Fest!! 😂😍🔥
This installment of the 'VioleNt Circle Series' is based on sexy single Dad, Neal 33yrs, and his Daughter, Bailey. Plus the newest neighbours on the Circle single Mum & Son, Veronica 23yrs and Aiden!! 🙂
Both adults were walked out on by their partners some years earlier, after they'd had the children. In both cases they escaped reasonably emotionally unscathed. What upsets them both is that the children's other parents abandoned their children without a backward glance!! 😠
Over the course of time they become close friends & confidantes. The children, even with a six year age gap, get on like a house on fire so they all spend a lot of time together!!
The dynamic of this book reminded me more of 'Scarlet Toys'. It was more - I don't know - grown up, almost? It tugged on my heart strings more that's for sure. The kids are fabulous especially Aiden. He made me think that's what a cross of Noble & Denton would've been like at 5 yrs old - hilarious 😂 Neal's freak out over Bailey is the funniest 'Dad moment' ever 😂😂 Neal & Veronica were brilliant 😍 They were both funny, relaxed & mostly chilled out!!💙💖
I LOVED this book 😍 This one was a perfect blend of love, laughter, friendship, community & family 💞💘 Look out for the bathroom scene at the Hotel in Chapter 9, I died 😳😂😂😂😂
It's always a pleasure to return to VioleNt Circle 📚 I hope the Author decides to revisit it in the future 🤞🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
This installment of the 'VioleNt Circle Series' is based on sexy single Dad, Neal 33yrs, and his Daughter, Bailey. Plus the newest neighbours on the Circle single Mum & Son, Veronica 23yrs and Aiden!! 🙂
Both adults were walked out on by their partners some years earlier, after they'd had the children. In both cases they escaped reasonably emotionally unscathed. What upsets them both is that the children's other parents abandoned their children without a backward glance!! 😠
Over the course of time they become close friends & confidantes. The children, even with a six year age gap, get on like a house on fire so they all spend a lot of time together!!
The dynamic of this book reminded me more of 'Scarlet Toys'. It was more - I don't know - grown up, almost? It tugged on my heart strings more that's for sure. The kids are fabulous especially Aiden. He made me think that's what a cross of Noble & Denton would've been like at 5 yrs old - hilarious 😂 Neal's freak out over Bailey is the funniest 'Dad moment' ever 😂😂 Neal & Veronica were brilliant 😍 They were both funny, relaxed & mostly chilled out!!💙💖
I LOVED this book 😍 This one was a perfect blend of love, laughter, friendship, community & family 💞💘 Look out for the bathroom scene at the Hotel in Chapter 9, I died 😳😂😂😂😂
It's always a pleasure to return to VioleNt Circle 📚 I hope the Author decides to revisit it in the future 🤞🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
July 29, 2018
Normally I'm not a romcom fan, but S.M. Shade has changed that for me. The Violent Circle series is the best! Clean Start is just as good as the first two. The humor is right up my alley and will leave you laughing out loud waking up your significant other and kids. Add in well written characters and a storyline that keeps you hooked and you have yourself an excellent read. Buy this book. Read it and enjoy every page! I highly recommend it.
October 13, 2018
So I saw a review on instagram for this book and was curious. found it was a trilogy so I started with book one and read in order. I loved every single one of them. So freaking funny but honestly I think this was the funniest one. and maybe even my favorite of the 3. I would recommend this to anyone that loves romcoms. I read all 3 in a matter of just 3 days so needles to say I enjoyed. I will definitely have to check out her other books. loved the way she wrote. it was just so easy going.
July 5, 2022
clean start
Omgosh this book. It was just too much. I absolutely loved it. Seriously got belly cramps from laughing so hard a few times. Violent Circle is one of my favorite book worlds. Each character is just that, a character in and of themselves. You don’t only enjoy the H and h but the entire neighborhood. If you need something to make you smile, this series is the one for you.
Omgosh this book. It was just too much. I absolutely loved it. Seriously got belly cramps from laughing so hard a few times. Violent Circle is one of my favorite book worlds. Each character is just that, a character in and of themselves. You don’t only enjoy the H and h but the entire neighborhood. If you need something to make you smile, this series is the one for you.
September 16, 2018
10***
Absolutely Brilliant, crying with tears hilarious characters you fall in love with instantly and the kids and the story itself is just a work of art 10*****
Absolutely Brilliant, crying with tears hilarious characters you fall in love with instantly and the kids and the story itself is just a work of art 10*****
October 1, 2018
It was a cute and quick funny read.
October 13, 2019
Light, fun enough read. It isn’t as funny as “worth it” from the same author but still entertaining.
Didn’t like the pace much, though. The author kept skipping entire weeks/months and it was hard to keep up and connect to the characters because of it. I felt like I was missing big chunks of their love story. Then again I was kind of expecting this as it’s on the short side 🤷🏻♀️
Didn’t like the pace much, though. The author kept skipping entire weeks/months and it was hard to keep up and connect to the characters because of it. I felt like I was missing big chunks of their love story. Then again I was kind of expecting this as it’s on the short side 🤷🏻♀️
July 31, 2018
4.25-4.5 stars
July 23, 2018
It isn't the first story in this series but can be read as a standalone without any problems. The characters find themselves in some hilarious situations that had me laughing out loud, so be warned! This story is quick and incredibly fun. I enjoyed how the characters developed and seeing how they grew up which shaped who they are today. The supporting characters were also well written and added to the story. I really enjoyed this and all the other violent circle stories. If you want a super funny Rom com series you won't be disappointed.
July 24, 2021
This book LITERALLY made me laugh out loud!!! 😂. The residents of Violent Circle have again thoroughly entertained me. 2 single parents finding love with each other.... And the kids actually get along. 😲. Yep. Neal and Veronica were friends helping each other out with the kids... And some other things also... No matter how much people say they won't fall in love.... They do it anyway. But can they make the blended family work? Neal and Veronica definitely don't take themselves too seriously, so that makes for a very entertaining courtship!
You absolutely want to pick up this final book in the Violent Circle series! It was just as great as I was hoping it would be! 💖
You absolutely want to pick up this final book in the Violent Circle series! It was just as great as I was hoping it would be! 💖
August 4, 2019
4.5 Hearse Stars
LOL...yep that’s what I did many times throughout this book! This series just gets funnier and funnier! I loved how Neal, single dad to a preteen girl Bailey, meets Veronica single mom to 5 year old boy Aiden, and all the fun and mischief they all get up to with the, Violent Circle Gang. This story was sweet, such a hoot, and heart warming. This was a blended family story done right!
LOL...yep that’s what I did many times throughout this book! This series just gets funnier and funnier! I loved how Neal, single dad to a preteen girl Bailey, meets Veronica single mom to 5 year old boy Aiden, and all the fun and mischief they all get up to with the, Violent Circle Gang. This story was sweet, such a hoot, and heart warming. This was a blended family story done right!
July 22, 2018
Outstanding finale for the gang at Violet “Violent” Circle. The author has done a fantastic job with this book, as well as the first two in the series, in both the storyline and the characters. The series stems around a low income housing area and the characters in it are the people that live on Violet Circle (which was vandalized to say “Violent” Circle), residents who are either down on their luck or the frat-house college boys. All of which are struggling financially but they are blessed with neighbors who are more like family than just neighbors.
Clean Start is Neal and Veronica’s story. Both are single parents who have put their personal happiness on hold while putting their children first (bothbring the only parent in their child’s lives). Neal is raising his daughter Bailey while Veronica is raising her son Aiden and trust me when I say the kids will steal your heart and have you smiling and laughing at their antics. As for Neal and Veronica, they are great friends who are secretly attracted to each other. However both are afraid to act on it or say anything for numerous reason (sorry you’ll just have to read the book and check out their “Logic”). But when the community center has a kids lock-in night, and Veronica and Neal are left alone with no kids for the first time in years, not to mention the Kegger set up in the park, all bets are off on the outcome.
This is one hilarious series and Clean Start is no acception. From sex toys, to pranks, to a butt joke telling kid to extremely embarrassing moments (such as going out the window in chocolate and whipped cream white boxers - causing one to look like they messed their pants), you won’t be able to keep the smile off your face or the laughter held inside. Kudos to the author for a job well done and 2 Thumbs Up for a fantastic book/series that I highly recommend reading. You won’t be sorry you did, it’s just that dang funny and good.
Clean Start is Neal and Veronica’s story. Both are single parents who have put their personal happiness on hold while putting their children first (bothbring the only parent in their child’s lives). Neal is raising his daughter Bailey while Veronica is raising her son Aiden and trust me when I say the kids will steal your heart and have you smiling and laughing at their antics. As for Neal and Veronica, they are great friends who are secretly attracted to each other. However both are afraid to act on it or say anything for numerous reason (sorry you’ll just have to read the book and check out their “Logic”). But when the community center has a kids lock-in night, and Veronica and Neal are left alone with no kids for the first time in years, not to mention the Kegger set up in the park, all bets are off on the outcome.
This is one hilarious series and Clean Start is no acception. From sex toys, to pranks, to a butt joke telling kid to extremely embarrassing moments (such as going out the window in chocolate and whipped cream white boxers - causing one to look like they messed their pants), you won’t be able to keep the smile off your face or the laughter held inside. Kudos to the author for a job well done and 2 Thumbs Up for a fantastic book/series that I highly recommend reading. You won’t be sorry you did, it’s just that dang funny and good.
July 22, 2018
This is the 3rd book in this Violent Circle series by SM Shade, and as far as I know the last one, I will be sorry to see these go, this has been an excellent series, real laugh out loud fun, swoon worthy moments, hot sizzling sexy scenes, with the kids you meet along the way in the Violent Circle making this series so very worth the read!!
This third book has been no exception, it was laugh out loud funny, sweet, sexy and so very real life in lots of ways!! This story revolves around a new mum in the neighborhood, Veronica and her 5 yr old son Aiden. Violent Circle is not the most affluent of areas, everyone struggling to make ends meet, Veronica is no different, working at the local hotel cleaning rooms, taking Aiden with her to save on childcare costs. Neal is a neighbor we met in the previous two books, he is a single dad to his 11 yr old daughter Bailey, and going on for 10 yrs older than Veronica. They have formed a good friendship, helping each other out in various ways as both are single parents. They are very much attracted to each other but put their feelings aside in order to protect the kids. But boundaries get crossed and feelings get involved, with some hot sexy scenes involved when the kids are out of the way!! These pair are just perfect for each other, and their kids make the reading all that much more fun.
A great read, some real funny moments and some great parenting moments as well, from a fake penis in a hotel room for little Aiden and medical services nearly being involved for Bailey starting her period, and don't even get me started with 'waffle stomping' lol!!
Violent Circle is a great community that knows how to look after each other, with some great characters and friendships. Wonderful!!
This third book has been no exception, it was laugh out loud funny, sweet, sexy and so very real life in lots of ways!! This story revolves around a new mum in the neighborhood, Veronica and her 5 yr old son Aiden. Violent Circle is not the most affluent of areas, everyone struggling to make ends meet, Veronica is no different, working at the local hotel cleaning rooms, taking Aiden with her to save on childcare costs. Neal is a neighbor we met in the previous two books, he is a single dad to his 11 yr old daughter Bailey, and going on for 10 yrs older than Veronica. They have formed a good friendship, helping each other out in various ways as both are single parents. They are very much attracted to each other but put their feelings aside in order to protect the kids. But boundaries get crossed and feelings get involved, with some hot sexy scenes involved when the kids are out of the way!! These pair are just perfect for each other, and their kids make the reading all that much more fun.
A great read, some real funny moments and some great parenting moments as well, from a fake penis in a hotel room for little Aiden and medical services nearly being involved for Bailey starting her period, and don't even get me started with 'waffle stomping' lol!!
Violent Circle is a great community that knows how to look after each other, with some great characters and friendships. Wonderful!!
July 7, 2018
“Yaaas, it was Gucci.”
“Dad,” she groans, but a snort of laughter sneaks through. “What?” I put my arm around her as we walk. “You should’ve come with us, it was totally litty titty, fam jam.”
Every new violent circle book becomes my favorite of the series and Clean Start just proves why S. M. Shade is the queen of rom com.
Veronica and Neal are so pure and fresh, their children and strange family dynamic tugs at your heart in a way anyone with children can relate to. It’s wholesome.... in a completely inappropriate and disgustingly hilarious fashion- true to Shade Style.
I found Clean Start much more endearing and sweet than the previous Violent Circle books but no less steamy and sexy.
Is there anything sexier than a dad who loves his kids who can also unclog pipes like a real man (get it? *ha!* hyjinks sex puns) Neal is perfect package of sweet, mature and sexy and Veronica is sinner and saint wrapped together...
but the true heart throb of the book is Aiden, Veronica’s 5 year old son who makes you want to squeal with laughter and coo at the same time!
I lost it multiple times reading this book and have never highlighted more hilarious phrases.. or learned new things more like the meaning of “waffle stomp” and how to talk dirty.
This book flew by for me, not because of its length, it’s full length and has a pretty great plot, but because I couldn’t put it down. I was laughing so hard my husband was constantly asking me what was going on in the book!
I’ve constantly recommended this series to anyone who loves love and comedy, and the Violent Circle books, especially Clean Start are the perfect balance of both.
“Dad,” she groans, but a snort of laughter sneaks through. “What?” I put my arm around her as we walk. “You should’ve come with us, it was totally litty titty, fam jam.”
Every new violent circle book becomes my favorite of the series and Clean Start just proves why S. M. Shade is the queen of rom com.
Veronica and Neal are so pure and fresh, their children and strange family dynamic tugs at your heart in a way anyone with children can relate to. It’s wholesome.... in a completely inappropriate and disgustingly hilarious fashion- true to Shade Style.
I found Clean Start much more endearing and sweet than the previous Violent Circle books but no less steamy and sexy.
Is there anything sexier than a dad who loves his kids who can also unclog pipes like a real man (get it? *ha!* hyjinks sex puns) Neal is perfect package of sweet, mature and sexy and Veronica is sinner and saint wrapped together...
but the true heart throb of the book is Aiden, Veronica’s 5 year old son who makes you want to squeal with laughter and coo at the same time!
I lost it multiple times reading this book and have never highlighted more hilarious phrases.. or learned new things more like the meaning of “waffle stomp” and how to talk dirty.
This book flew by for me, not because of its length, it’s full length and has a pretty great plot, but because I couldn’t put it down. I was laughing so hard my husband was constantly asking me what was going on in the book!
I’ve constantly recommended this series to anyone who loves love and comedy, and the Violent Circle books, especially Clean Start are the perfect balance of both.
July 21, 2018
Veronica is a single mom to Aiden and works at a motel while living in Violet Circle. She is attracted to Neal who lives in another apartment building near her but knows she is not ready for a real relationship.
Neal Chambers is a single dad to Bailey and manages Jetsky's Car Wash. He loves his daughter but realizes there are certain things she needs a woman's help with and luckily he has Veronica to help them out.
But as Neal and Veronica grow closer they begin a physical relationship that both agree is nothing more than that. But when jealousy arrives will it cause them both to lose everything?
This is such an awesome book filled with so many laughs from start to finish and I really hope it's not the end of this series.
I really liked Veronica and how she worked hard at providing for Aiden. Her job provided me with so many laughs, especially the goat! I loved how she was there for Bailey as well and helping her through her period and supporting her as much as she could.
Neal was a stand-up guy and I loved how he was helping Veronica and other tenants from their landlord and the stuff they were pulling. It was obvious how much he cared about Veronica and Aiden but I was wondering when he was going to talk to Veronica about his feelings.
The sundae scene was the absolute best and it made me laugh so hard!!
I knew what Bailey was trying to do and I hated how it backfired but I loved how she made it all up to Neal and Veronica!
The yard sale was also so funny and I loved the stunts that the Frat Boys pulled after that.
The end was awesome and I really want more!!
Neal Chambers is a single dad to Bailey and manages Jetsky's Car Wash. He loves his daughter but realizes there are certain things she needs a woman's help with and luckily he has Veronica to help them out.
But as Neal and Veronica grow closer they begin a physical relationship that both agree is nothing more than that. But when jealousy arrives will it cause them both to lose everything?
This is such an awesome book filled with so many laughs from start to finish and I really hope it's not the end of this series.
I really liked Veronica and how she worked hard at providing for Aiden. Her job provided me with so many laughs, especially the goat! I loved how she was there for Bailey as well and helping her through her period and supporting her as much as she could.
Neal was a stand-up guy and I loved how he was helping Veronica and other tenants from their landlord and the stuff they were pulling. It was obvious how much he cared about Veronica and Aiden but I was wondering when he was going to talk to Veronica about his feelings.
The sundae scene was the absolute best and it made me laugh so hard!!
I knew what Bailey was trying to do and I hated how it backfired but I loved how she made it all up to Neal and Veronica!
The yard sale was also so funny and I loved the stunts that the Frat Boys pulled after that.
The end was awesome and I really want more!!
August 6, 2021
Cute, but not nearly as fun or steamy as the first two books. But still cute none-the-less.
General gist with spoiler:
🔵Rating - 2.5 stars - not super exciting, just cute and funny
🔵Steam - 2 stars - it's subdued in comparison to the first two books
🔵Storyline - 3 stars - easy to follow, nothing crazy, no major plot twists
🔵Plot Twists - 1 star - nothing crazy exciting happens. the story is pretty straight forward
🔵Emotional Pull - 1 star - no tears, but lots of giggles
🔵Writing - 4 stars - very easy to read. very comfortable pace
🔵Denouement - 4 stars - almost perfect.
🔵Cliffhanger? - no
🔵HEA? - yes
General gist with spoiler:
🔵Rating - 2.5 stars - not super exciting, just cute and funny
🔵Steam - 2 stars - it's subdued in comparison to the first two books
🔵Storyline - 3 stars - easy to follow, nothing crazy, no major plot twists
🔵Plot Twists - 1 star - nothing crazy exciting happens. the story is pretty straight forward
🔵Emotional Pull - 1 star - no tears, but lots of giggles
🔵Writing - 4 stars - very easy to read. very comfortable pace
🔵Denouement - 4 stars - almost perfect.
🔵Cliffhanger? - no
🔵HEA? - yes
July 22, 2018
You know those shakes your whole body get when laughing! I’m still getting those thinking about this book 2 hours after I’ve finished it!!!
If you want gut busting humour with some sexy times and a fantastic story to go with, then you need this book!!!
I love the hell out of Shannon Shade’s books and Violent Circle is one of the best rom com series I’ve had the pleasure of reading! This story just makes this series even better!!!
We’ve fallen in love with Neal in the past, the single dad who was always willing to help anyone in the circle. And when Veronica moved in a couple of months ago, they grew close. Two single parents who would help each other.
You can see their chemistry from miles away, everyone in the circle knew it, except for the two people who were silly trying to fight it.
Until Neal finally goes for the girl and gets over the age difference!
These two have so much chemistry you can’t get enough of! Their passion for one another sizzles and the dirty talk... well you need to read it to find out how dirty it can get... 😂😂😂
So many great laughs I was too busy trying to stop my body from hurting to highlight my favourite parts of this story but there are a lot!!!
Make sure you read this! Can be read as a stand-alone but to get everyone’s background read Scarlet Toys and then Frat Hell!!!!!
❤️❤️❤️
If you want gut busting humour with some sexy times and a fantastic story to go with, then you need this book!!!
I love the hell out of Shannon Shade’s books and Violent Circle is one of the best rom com series I’ve had the pleasure of reading! This story just makes this series even better!!!
We’ve fallen in love with Neal in the past, the single dad who was always willing to help anyone in the circle. And when Veronica moved in a couple of months ago, they grew close. Two single parents who would help each other.
You can see their chemistry from miles away, everyone in the circle knew it, except for the two people who were silly trying to fight it.
Until Neal finally goes for the girl and gets over the age difference!
These two have so much chemistry you can’t get enough of! Their passion for one another sizzles and the dirty talk... well you need to read it to find out how dirty it can get... 😂😂😂
So many great laughs I was too busy trying to stop my body from hurting to highlight my favourite parts of this story but there are a lot!!!
Make sure you read this! Can be read as a stand-alone but to get everyone’s background read Scarlet Toys and then Frat Hell!!!!!
❤️❤️❤️
July 10, 2018
Like seriously I need to climb into this book and become a part of the Violent Circle crew. I think I would fit in perfectly 😉. S.M. Shade, girl you never cease to amaze me. This book was definitely a laugh out loud, people look at you like your crazy kinda book (yes I got strange looks from my family at times - they should know me by now).
Neal and Veronica oh my oh my....
Let’s start off by saying they are both stubborn SOB’s. But damn if I didn’t love everything about them and there sweet kids. I think Bailey and Aiden may have stolen the show here. I loved them to pieces. They were just so adorable.
Neal a single father...
Veronica a single mother...
Two kids...
An attraction between the two...
What could go wrong?
The angst and sexual tension between Veronica and Neal was off the charts. Both hurt in the past, afraid to commit to a relationship. Friends become more than friends and the drama and hysterics ensue. My sides hurts from laughing so hard at times - from the Frat Hell Antics to Neal being a single father to a teenage girl and oh damn don’t get me started on the waffle stomp (do not google...or be warned). This book was just what I needed. S.M. Shade made my weekend!
Neal and Veronica oh my oh my....
Let’s start off by saying they are both stubborn SOB’s. But damn if I didn’t love everything about them and there sweet kids. I think Bailey and Aiden may have stolen the show here. I loved them to pieces. They were just so adorable.
Neal a single father...
Veronica a single mother...
Two kids...
An attraction between the two...
What could go wrong?
The angst and sexual tension between Veronica and Neal was off the charts. Both hurt in the past, afraid to commit to a relationship. Friends become more than friends and the drama and hysterics ensue. My sides hurts from laughing so hard at times - from the Frat Hell Antics to Neal being a single father to a teenage girl and oh damn don’t get me started on the waffle stomp (do not google...or be warned). This book was just what I needed. S.M. Shade made my weekend!
July 22, 2018
Yeah the next installment (book 3) of Violent Circle is here. Yes it is a stand-alone (blah blah blah) but I highly recommend you read them all especially if you are looking for humor on steroids. Plan for FUNNY FUNNY FUNNY! This author continues to excel at writing real people leading everyday yet intriguing lives. I admit they solicit all kinds of emotions for me.
I love Veronica and Neil from the beginning. They are single parents that meet because they live in the same subsidized housing complex. Plan to experience a real sense of community with the housing complex and all its players being the backdrop. LOVE IT! Veronica cracks me up from the beginning with hilarious, filterless, irreverent, one liners and lets just say her five year old son Aiden doesn’t fall far from the tree. OMG that kid kills me. Neil and his daughter, Bailey bring on the sweetness right off the bat. As the story progresses Neil isn’t afraid to show Veronica his naughty side (wink wink). Lordy (fanning myself) he know how to spice things up. The message of parenting and family is the foundation of this book. Ugh so touching and beautiful. What a wonderful book that I highly recommend. Happy Reading!
I love Veronica and Neil from the beginning. They are single parents that meet because they live in the same subsidized housing complex. Plan to experience a real sense of community with the housing complex and all its players being the backdrop. LOVE IT! Veronica cracks me up from the beginning with hilarious, filterless, irreverent, one liners and lets just say her five year old son Aiden doesn’t fall far from the tree. OMG that kid kills me. Neil and his daughter, Bailey bring on the sweetness right off the bat. As the story progresses Neil isn’t afraid to show Veronica his naughty side (wink wink). Lordy (fanning myself) he know how to spice things up. The message of parenting and family is the foundation of this book. Ugh so touching and beautiful. What a wonderful book that I highly recommend. Happy Reading!
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