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The Kingmaker Saga #5
Dark Horse
The Saga Continues ...
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 28, 2019
65 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
About the author
London Miller
45 books1,412 followersWith a degree in Creative Writing, London Miller has turned pen to paper, creating riveting fictional worlds where the bad guys are sometimes the good guys. Her debut novel, In the Beginning, is the first in the Volkov Bratva Series.
She currently resides in southern Georgia where she drinks far too much coffee, and spends her nights writing.
To learn more about London Miller and her novels, please visit her through her social media:
http://facebook.com/londonmillerauthor
http://twitter.com/AuthorLMiller
Also, you can email her at: london.millerauthor@gmail.com
She currently resides in southern Georgia where she drinks far too much coffee, and spends her nights writing.
To learn more about London Miller and her novels, please visit her through her social media:
http://facebook.com/londonmillerauthor
http://twitter.com/AuthorLMiller
Also, you can email her at: london.millerauthor@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 29, 2019
This was extremely disappointing 2 star read.
Oh, how I can list the ways.
- Confusing time jumps
- Chapters and chapters of the MC's just stewing and plotting but not actually doing anything.
- No real development of the story up until the last 90% of the book
- No real conversation between the MC's. This is the 5th of a 6 part series and at point I want the MC's to actually say more than 3 words to each other.
- I dont know who was talking or who's perspective we were in half the time
- Even more drama on top of pre-existing drama.
This has been one of my favorite series but this one really let me down. It felt rushed and unfinished. I've never minded typos or grammatical errors before, but when ive waited this long for this come out, and they pop up everywhere on top of a half-assed book, I start to get mad.
I still love all of the characters but, goddam, can we PLEASE just get them back together and STAY together already?!?!? If theres only one book left and each book is only 200 pages than thats not enough time for their reunion to feel real.
I guess ill wait another 6 months for the next one to come out :/
Oh, how I can list the ways.
- Confusing time jumps
- Chapters and chapters of the MC's just stewing and plotting but not actually doing anything.
- No real development of the story up until the last 90% of the book
- No real conversation between the MC's. This is the 5th of a 6 part series and at point I want the MC's to actually say more than 3 words to each other.
- I dont know who was talking or who's perspective we were in half the time
- Even more drama on top of pre-existing drama.
This has been one of my favorite series but this one really let me down. It felt rushed and unfinished. I've never minded typos or grammatical errors before, but when ive waited this long for this come out, and they pop up everywhere on top of a half-assed book, I start to get mad.
I still love all of the characters but, goddam, can we PLEASE just get them back together and STAY together already?!?!? If theres only one book left and each book is only 200 pages than thats not enough time for their reunion to feel real.
I guess ill wait another 6 months for the next one to come out :/
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2021
He came toward her then, not giving her a chance to walk away. And when she felt his hand slide around to the flat of her stomach, she closed her eyes, willing the tears to go away before they could fall. “An apology doesn’t seem good enough for what I’ve done. You deserve far more than that and if given the chance, I would spend a lifetime making up for what we’ve lost.”
His free hand came up to curl around her jaw, forcing her gaze up to him. “I’m sorry, more than you’ll ever know. More than I can ever say. I won’t ask for your forgiveness because I don’t deserve it, but I will ask for one favor, if you would. Give me a chance to make this right between us.”
And in this moment she knew, her wrath would be biblical, and there was nothing and no one that would be able to save them from what they had coming to them.
Holy smokes. In this book some gained redemption while others have incurred Karina's fury & will for vengeance. While there is room for the plot to go forward in the next book, I'm perfectly content with where this book left off. Everything -- all the plot threads, seeds that were planted in book 1 to this series came to fruition. It's a risk for me to sometimes read indie authors who attempt to write suspense with complex plots, and a full cast of characters over a series. Often the build up of suspense doesn't lead to an adequate climax....later books suffering from law of diminishing returns. This entire series has been executed brilliantly. This is an intelligently written series, and I appreciate that the author writes up to her readers and didn't dumb down this series for her audience. This series made me think, wondering, guessing at how different elements connected to each other. In fact, I think this series may have ruined other romantic organized crime/mafia stories for me. I had little patience for them before reading this...but now? After this book hangover, I don't think the mafia/organized crime romances currently on the market are going to cut it. I think I'm going to have to look for well-done thrillers and cross my fingers there's a romance in them as well.
That ending. I ugly cried. The ending is what lead me to bump this back up to 5 stars. I took a risk reading this series knowing it was unfinished...but I came across something where the author originally intended this book to be the last in the series, and based on the reviews I had a feeling many of the questions from earlier books would be answered, things resolved. *Takes a satisfied sigh* My hunch was right. This is the kind of ending I was hoping for. Emotionally moving, things coming to a resolution...but the story isn't over. London Miller is an expert story-teller.
With all my praise, I know this series isn't going to be for everyone. Especially many of the mafia romance readers who want the fast-paced romance & smut. There was 1 sex scene in this entire book, and it wasn't very explicit. In this last book? I don't even think there was a sex scene. Maybe? This series is really all about the story. With the chemistry between these two and the strong story, more smut would have cheapened the series, imo.
So, my plan now is to read the Den series. I'm probably going to skip straight to Luna & Kit's story. I'm so emotionally involved at this point & so so happy there are other characters that have their own books I can read about. Another thing that's impressive to me is how this author has created so many interesting side characters that connect to the plot in an important way. This takes skill & talent many authors lack. Seriously, after this series I'm a hardcore London Miller fan. I remember a few weeks ago setting out to try to find an organized crime book that would suit my tastes and this series has gone above and beyond all my expectations.
...
One of the best thrillers/mystery-suspense books I've read in years. This has to be one of the most intricately woven plots I've seen in a romance...the amount of foreshadowing, foresight, and planning on the author's part from book 1 is impressive. I'm trying to imagine the author's office. She probably has a white board like this one:
RTC. I may round up to 5 stars later. The series isn't over, but many plot threads in earlier books were resolved amazingly well and I'm feeling very satisfied at the moment :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2019
5 There will be a reckoning Stars
“Weakness of not, I did what I was set out to do in the first place.” Left his business in shambles. Ruined his name. And most importantly, she ensured he finally understood why his day of reckoning had come at her hand.
Karina is Uilleam’s addiction.
One of them is going to lose.
He is the powder, she is the fuse.
Just add some friction.
“She’d been the naïve prey and he’d been the hungry predator. How times have changed. . .”
London Miller immerses the reader into a world of intrigue and romance, suspense and mystery. I was so immersed in the story that had me guessing and addicted from page one. The sexual tension between Uilleam and Karina is heightened and their relationship deepened as the layers of betrayal are revealed chapter after chapter. Dark Horse is beautifully written and is another smashing addition to The Kingmaker Saga. I am never disappointed when I pick up a new London book, as she instantly weaves her powerful words into my soul and keeps my in her grasp throughout her stories. Stories so intricate and unpredictable you don't know what you're going to get, even when you've finished and Dark Horse was exactly that.
“It’s never easy being king. Or queen as it were."
My Heart is racing after finishing Dark Horse. To say I am shocked is an understatement! As I waited for this book to be released I already had my expectations set for the book: I expected it to be well written. I expected it to keep me guessing. I wanted it to rip me to pieces, then make me whole and then do it all over again. And again and again.
Well…
I can happily say with my mind still buzzing that this book exceeded my expectations miles apart from what I thought I was going to be reading.
“The road ahead isn’t an easy one, I’m afraid, but it’s necessary-all the hard lessons are.”
Dark Horse picks up right where Red Herring left off. No fuss, no muss. Just a rushing sonic wave that crashes onto page one and echoes through to the final page. You get the final answers and outcomes. You get to revisit with characters from the past which could be familiar or new to you. Simply put, it is a wonderfully mind bending experience that I am excited for you to read. Vengeance will be paid in blood. Bodies will line the streets in blood. Neither Karina & Uilleam will come out of this unscathed. The aftermath of a huge revelation was tense, emotional and heart-wrenching. In Dark Horse, we learn that Karina & Uilleam are pawns in someone else’s game. He or she pulled the strings from day one, and now its their turn to get the crown back!
AND THAT ENDING?!?!?
London has left us on a knifes edge and by hell did I want to keep reading. I cannot wait for Alpha Omega.
And the introduction to the WAR DOGS.......
My greedy hands are dying for their series next.
“Weakness of not, I did what I was set out to do in the first place.” Left his business in shambles. Ruined his name. And most importantly, she ensured he finally understood why his day of reckoning had come at her hand.
Karina is Uilleam’s addiction.
One of them is going to lose.
He is the powder, she is the fuse.
Just add some friction.
“She’d been the naïve prey and he’d been the hungry predator. How times have changed. . .”
London Miller immerses the reader into a world of intrigue and romance, suspense and mystery. I was so immersed in the story that had me guessing and addicted from page one. The sexual tension between Uilleam and Karina is heightened and their relationship deepened as the layers of betrayal are revealed chapter after chapter. Dark Horse is beautifully written and is another smashing addition to The Kingmaker Saga. I am never disappointed when I pick up a new London book, as she instantly weaves her powerful words into my soul and keeps my in her grasp throughout her stories. Stories so intricate and unpredictable you don't know what you're going to get, even when you've finished and Dark Horse was exactly that.
“It’s never easy being king. Or queen as it were."
My Heart is racing after finishing Dark Horse. To say I am shocked is an understatement! As I waited for this book to be released I already had my expectations set for the book: I expected it to be well written. I expected it to keep me guessing. I wanted it to rip me to pieces, then make me whole and then do it all over again. And again and again.
Well…
I can happily say with my mind still buzzing that this book exceeded my expectations miles apart from what I thought I was going to be reading.
“The road ahead isn’t an easy one, I’m afraid, but it’s necessary-all the hard lessons are.”
Dark Horse picks up right where Red Herring left off. No fuss, no muss. Just a rushing sonic wave that crashes onto page one and echoes through to the final page. You get the final answers and outcomes. You get to revisit with characters from the past which could be familiar or new to you. Simply put, it is a wonderfully mind bending experience that I am excited for you to read. Vengeance will be paid in blood. Bodies will line the streets in blood. Neither Karina & Uilleam will come out of this unscathed. The aftermath of a huge revelation was tense, emotional and heart-wrenching. In Dark Horse, we learn that Karina & Uilleam are pawns in someone else’s game. He or she pulled the strings from day one, and now its their turn to get the crown back!
AND THAT ENDING?!?!?
London has left us on a knifes edge and by hell did I want to keep reading. I cannot wait for Alpha Omega.
And the introduction to the WAR DOGS.......
My greedy hands are dying for their series next.
February 28, 2022
"I'll think about it tomorrow That was a problem for another day."
This review is for the entire series; my review for the first book is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show....
This is the fifth book in the enemies-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-? saga of antagonistic organized crime masterminds Kingmaker (Uilleam) and Belladonna (Karina). Before I get to my review, I want to advise potential readers of four things:
1) It's absolutely necessary to read the books in order
2) Some do end in cliffhangers
3) Because this series is an origin story, characters from the author's other series appear (indeed, Uilleam and Karina first appeared as secondary characters in other books). I was often confused since certain plot points and conflicts occur in other texts (the drama around the uncle in particular made no sense here) and at times take focus away from our MC
4) In some books the MC spend a great deal of time apart and not every book contains erotic scenes; this didn't bother me, but may bother some
Ms. Miller has crafted an intricately plotted blend of dark erotic romance, revenge tragedy, Greek tragedy, thriller, and crime drama, and I recommend this series with some caveats (see below). What I particularly appreciated was how the author took familiar tropes from each genre and turned them upside down. Thus, we get a romantic couple whose relationship is based on a great deal more than hormones and who are as compelling apart as they are together; a narrative more invested in the fall of the gangster figure than in his rise; and a mob war based not on competing nationalities or territories, but on gender (the Kingmaker's team is predominantly male; Belladonna's female). Indeed, what I found most compelling about this book was how much agency the female characters have since in dark romance and crime drama they usually possess very little (that said, Karina and Uilleam's motivations are intrinsically gendered). I particularly commend the author for foregrounding the relationship between the two sisters as much as she does the one between the two lovers.
In terms of writing, Ms. Miller excels at emotional scenes. The prose detailing was particularly compelling. I was hugely invested in the characters (including secondary ones); couldn't wait to find out what happened next; and really couldn't always predict plot twists. Thus, if you're looking for a suspenseful storyline featuring two intelligent, driven people who you won't always like, but will always find fascinating, and who undergo a lot of growth, you will enjoy this book.
That said, I had three problems. First, all these books suffer from glaring typos, continuity errors, plot holes, and narrative ellipses. I detailed many in my first review and they don't get any better. Timelines in particular make little sense: at times Kit is seven years older than his younger brother; at others four; and either three years or three months take place between the second and third books. Elsie is or is not younger than both her brothers (and I can't begin to tell you what she looks like). Agent Ramon is either a man or a woman. Karina is either wearing a dress or a pantsuit when she sees Uilleam in the restaurant. Names are transposed and we don't always know who the pronouns refer to (tip to authors: if you have two male characters in a scene, don't freely use "he" or "him."). For all of Uilleam's supposed resourcefulness, he never once does any but the most basic research on Karina. It's not always clear how characters know things (such as how Karina knew that Orion was in trouble or where to find him). Scenes end in the middle of conversations and we later see the outcomes, but not the steps taken to get there. Characters shift instantaneously in time and space with no transitions. I could go on, but you get the point.
Second, I didn't like the twist at the end. I realize I'm in the minority on this, but hear me out. I completely understand its purpose: it allows . But, though I don't mean to imply that the ending .
Finally, while Uilleam does have his moment of , it's a very limited one. What if the woman who was hadn't been Karina, but someone else's lover or daughter or sister or wife? Would he have still cared? Do either he -- or Karina, for that matter -- ever extrapolate the lessons learned from their personal, individual tragedies to gain larger insights into the problems of power, corruption, capitalistic greed, and revenge? That's not clear here (particularly given the last line of this book) and the series would thus far have been a richer reading experience if it had been.
Individual Ratings:
White Rabbit: The Rise: 4 stars
White Rabbit: The Fall: 4 stars
Black Swan: 3 stars
Red Herring: 4 stars
Dark Horse: 3 stars
Overall: 2 stars for the prose, editing, and ending; 4 stars for the characters, conflicts, and plot = 3 1/2 stars overall, which I'm not raising because readers who buy books are entitled to a professionally edited product -- this simply was not. While the big reveal regarding the villain isn't a total surprise given the hints we've gotten along the way, I strongly suggest not reading some reviews here or on Amazon if you want to be surprised (it's really amazing how many reviewers reveal spoilers). I will now read Ms. Miller's other series. Apparently there is one more book that will trace , but many lines of action are resolved here. I hope that if there is a next one, Ms. Miller invests in a good editor; she badly needs one.
This review is for the entire series; my review for the first book is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show....
This is the fifth book in the enemies-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-? saga of antagonistic organized crime masterminds Kingmaker (Uilleam) and Belladonna (Karina). Before I get to my review, I want to advise potential readers of four things:
1) It's absolutely necessary to read the books in order
2) Some do end in cliffhangers
3) Because this series is an origin story, characters from the author's other series appear (indeed, Uilleam and Karina first appeared as secondary characters in other books). I was often confused since certain plot points and conflicts occur in other texts (the drama around the uncle in particular made no sense here) and at times take focus away from our MC
4) In some books the MC spend a great deal of time apart and not every book contains erotic scenes; this didn't bother me, but may bother some
Ms. Miller has crafted an intricately plotted blend of dark erotic romance, revenge tragedy, Greek tragedy, thriller, and crime drama, and I recommend this series with some caveats (see below). What I particularly appreciated was how the author took familiar tropes from each genre and turned them upside down. Thus, we get a romantic couple whose relationship is based on a great deal more than hormones and who are as compelling apart as they are together; a narrative more invested in the fall of the gangster figure than in his rise; and a mob war based not on competing nationalities or territories, but on gender (the Kingmaker's team is predominantly male; Belladonna's female). Indeed, what I found most compelling about this book was how much agency the female characters have since in dark romance and crime drama they usually possess very little (that said, Karina and Uilleam's motivations are intrinsically gendered). I particularly commend the author for foregrounding the relationship between the two sisters as much as she does the one between the two lovers.
In terms of writing, Ms. Miller excels at emotional scenes. The prose detailing was particularly compelling. I was hugely invested in the characters (including secondary ones); couldn't wait to find out what happened next; and really couldn't always predict plot twists. Thus, if you're looking for a suspenseful storyline featuring two intelligent, driven people who you won't always like, but will always find fascinating, and who undergo a lot of growth, you will enjoy this book.
That said, I had three problems. First, all these books suffer from glaring typos, continuity errors, plot holes, and narrative ellipses. I detailed many in my first review and they don't get any better. Timelines in particular make little sense: at times Kit is seven years older than his younger brother; at others four; and either three years or three months take place between the second and third books. Elsie is or is not younger than both her brothers (and I can't begin to tell you what she looks like). Agent Ramon is either a man or a woman. Karina is either wearing a dress or a pantsuit when she sees Uilleam in the restaurant. Names are transposed and we don't always know who the pronouns refer to (tip to authors: if you have two male characters in a scene, don't freely use "he" or "him."). For all of Uilleam's supposed resourcefulness, he never once does any but the most basic research on Karina. It's not always clear how characters know things (such as how Karina knew that Orion was in trouble or where to find him). Scenes end in the middle of conversations and we later see the outcomes, but not the steps taken to get there. Characters shift instantaneously in time and space with no transitions. I could go on, but you get the point.
Second, I didn't like the twist at the end. I realize I'm in the minority on this, but hear me out. I completely understand its purpose: it allows . But, though I don't mean to imply that the ending .
Finally, while Uilleam does have his moment of , it's a very limited one. What if the woman who was hadn't been Karina, but someone else's lover or daughter or sister or wife? Would he have still cared? Do either he -- or Karina, for that matter -- ever extrapolate the lessons learned from their personal, individual tragedies to gain larger insights into the problems of power, corruption, capitalistic greed, and revenge? That's not clear here (particularly given the last line of this book) and the series would thus far have been a richer reading experience if it had been.
Individual Ratings:
White Rabbit: The Rise: 4 stars
White Rabbit: The Fall: 4 stars
Black Swan: 3 stars
Red Herring: 4 stars
Dark Horse: 3 stars
Overall: 2 stars for the prose, editing, and ending; 4 stars for the characters, conflicts, and plot = 3 1/2 stars overall, which I'm not raising because readers who buy books are entitled to a professionally edited product -- this simply was not. While the big reveal regarding the villain isn't a total surprise given the hints we've gotten along the way, I strongly suggest not reading some reviews here or on Amazon if you want to be surprised (it's really amazing how many reviewers reveal spoilers). I will now read Ms. Miller's other series. Apparently there is one more book that will trace , but many lines of action are resolved here. I hope that if there is a next one, Ms. Miller invests in a good editor; she badly needs one.
December 13, 2019
This was supposed to be released November 22nd and then December 13th and now December 28th.....that’s just ridiculous.
December 30, 2019
Yes, the saga continues and we finally got to the point where U and K meet up and face the past and what they’ve been through. Book 5 was strangely taken over by the siblings and for the first time our MCs were overshadowed by all the secondary characters. Wished the focal point stayed on our MCs. Lots of new characters were introduced so I expect this saga to continue to a spin-off.
BUT beyond the storyline there were other issues....it’s very disappointing after so many release date delays that we end up with several instances of grammatical error, missing words and punctuations, typos and misplaced wording. Disappointed that an editor wasn’t used or didn’t do their job. Only part that saved it was the end which I was rooting for. This was my least favorite of the 5 books so far. 2.75 stars. Rooting for the final book to bring it!
BUT beyond the storyline there were other issues....it’s very disappointing after so many release date delays that we end up with several instances of grammatical error, missing words and punctuations, typos and misplaced wording. Disappointed that an editor wasn’t used or didn’t do their job. Only part that saved it was the end which I was rooting for. This was my least favorite of the 5 books so far. 2.75 stars. Rooting for the final book to bring it!
December 30, 2019
„Whether we understand or not doesn’t mean the love suddenly goes away.”
Can you send someone to help me gather my jaw from the floor? Because London Miller completely blew my mind and made me speechless. The continuation of Beladonna and Kingmaker’s fate described in Dark Horse was for me like the injection of adrenaline- it accelerated my heartbeat and made my head spin. It brought a moment that I waited for with bated breath, but also delivered a completely unexpected twist that slayed me. It's staggering how many emotions London is able to put in one book, for real.
Dark Horse has its beginning where the previous part ended. And while power play is still going on, longing and feelings hidden behind the desire for revenge come to the surface. Karina and Uilleam are facing a big question mark - can everything that has happened so far be forgiven?
I can't describe what this story has done with my mind and heart. Mrs. Miller's flawless prose and her precision in expressing her protagonist's emotions allowed me to feel every single thing deep to the core. Her storytelling is so prominent that there’s no other way- you experience every moment along with the characters, you feel what they feel, you hurt when they hurt. Every significant moment is detailed so perfectly that you feel like a part of the story unfolding before your eyes. And believe, the Dark Horse plot unfolded A LOT. I'm speechless. I feel like a puppet who's manipulated by the author's words.
I need the last part of the saga like I need the next breath. Alpha Omega can’t get here quick enough!
Can you send someone to help me gather my jaw from the floor? Because London Miller completely blew my mind and made me speechless. The continuation of Beladonna and Kingmaker’s fate described in Dark Horse was for me like the injection of adrenaline- it accelerated my heartbeat and made my head spin. It brought a moment that I waited for with bated breath, but also delivered a completely unexpected twist that slayed me. It's staggering how many emotions London is able to put in one book, for real.
Dark Horse has its beginning where the previous part ended. And while power play is still going on, longing and feelings hidden behind the desire for revenge come to the surface. Karina and Uilleam are facing a big question mark - can everything that has happened so far be forgiven?
I can't describe what this story has done with my mind and heart. Mrs. Miller's flawless prose and her precision in expressing her protagonist's emotions allowed me to feel every single thing deep to the core. Her storytelling is so prominent that there’s no other way- you experience every moment along with the characters, you feel what they feel, you hurt when they hurt. Every significant moment is detailed so perfectly that you feel like a part of the story unfolding before your eyes. And believe, the Dark Horse plot unfolded A LOT. I'm speechless. I feel like a puppet who's manipulated by the author's words.
I need the last part of the saga like I need the next breath. Alpha Omega can’t get here quick enough!
December 29, 2022
“An apology doesn’t seem good enough for what I’ve done. You deserve far more than that and if given the chance, I would spend a lifetime making up for what we’ve lost.”
This book has left me speechless! With a shocking secret being unveiled to Uilleam & Karina finally settling their differences, the book had it all. I love these two together so much that I can't seem to get enough of them, which is why I'm so happy that there's another book in the series. I can't wait to see how it finally ends and will Uilleam & Karina be able to right all the wrongs that were done to them?
This book has left me speechless! With a shocking secret being unveiled to Uilleam & Karina finally settling their differences, the book had it all. I love these two together so much that I can't seem to get enough of them, which is why I'm so happy that there's another book in the series. I can't wait to see how it finally ends and will Uilleam & Karina be able to right all the wrongs that were done to them?
April 11, 2024
Oh my that twist!
For a while I thought this would be a 3 star book (4 on Amazon), good but not great. However I'm now debating between 4 and 5 stars! The start was slower, less intense than previous books, we met several new characters and also learnt a lot more about some of the supporting characters. On reflection this world and character building was vital, building up to the most emotional of endings. Karina and Uilleam are not the people they once were, and I've gone from loving to hating and back to loving them at various times through both this and the DoM series. I can't wait for this pair to get the HEA they so very much deserve.
As already mentioned there is a huge bombshell of a twist, you start getting hints half-way through the book. The signposts for the big reveal are intentionally very obvious and easy to spot because the beauty of London Miller's writing is in the subtle, tiny, little details. She weaves seemingly irrelevant snippets of information into complex stories and she breathes such life into her characters that you feel, live and breathe their emotions.
Whilst much anticipated resolutions are attained, suddenly the rug is pulled out from under our feet and we discover that the bad guy was someone else all along. Now I'm left wondering just what will happen in the next book, Alpha Omega, and hoping that London finds time, amidst becoming a first-time mom, to continue writing this series.
PS will we ever find out what happened to Uilleam's uncle?
For a while I thought this would be a 3 star book (4 on Amazon), good but not great. However I'm now debating between 4 and 5 stars! The start was slower, less intense than previous books, we met several new characters and also learnt a lot more about some of the supporting characters. On reflection this world and character building was vital, building up to the most emotional of endings. Karina and Uilleam are not the people they once were, and I've gone from loving to hating and back to loving them at various times through both this and the DoM series. I can't wait for this pair to get the HEA they so very much deserve.
As already mentioned there is a huge bombshell of a twist, you start getting hints half-way through the book. The signposts for the big reveal are intentionally very obvious and easy to spot because the beauty of London Miller's writing is in the subtle, tiny, little details. She weaves seemingly irrelevant snippets of information into complex stories and she breathes such life into her characters that you feel, live and breathe their emotions.
Whilst much anticipated resolutions are attained, suddenly the rug is pulled out from under our feet and we discover that the bad guy was someone else all along. Now I'm left wondering just what will happen in the next book, Alpha Omega, and hoping that London finds time, amidst becoming a first-time mom, to continue writing this series.
PS will we ever find out what happened to Uilleam's uncle?
December 30, 2019
Like always expect the unexpected! London has once again brought a captivating tale to continue the story of the Kingmaker and his leading lady. Getting to see him overcome his obstacles and see his relationship with Karina play out was great. Hopefully we get to see more of Elsie in the book to follow I absolutely loved her!!
February 8, 2020
Poppy! Oh my god the tears I have cried for you and now more. The turmoil that Karina has gone through. The resentment she had felt toward the Kingmaker and to finally forgive him while watching him fight for his freedom. the inclusion of both MC’s sisters in the unraveling of a long and cruel mystery. Elsie has come into her own as the aloof and misunderstood sibling of the Runehart brothers. They could have done with her input at some time in the past but at least the author found her for this enthralling chapter. The War Dogs will make for an exciting spin off I’m just amazed at how well this author spins her tales and creates such amazing worlds. That’s her gift but she needs help with polishing (I’d happily do it for free!).
Meanwhile I tripped over a very rushed book. I can understand wanting to get the words out but what the hell. ONE read through could have wiped out an incredible amount of errors. I’m not talking small the ENTIRE book just needed one red pen from any person with the grasp of the English language! It’s was disappointing and seemed that at some point the author decided the agent in the FBI needed a sex change but didn’t thoroughly complete the surgery.
Perhaps the speech rec program mixed words up added new ones? It was very sloppy from an otherwise well thought out book. I only hope we can have the final book be given to some high school students at the very least to read and comment on punctuation,spelling, words in general...just a suggestion.
Anyway the story itself could end there but one wonders just what two people at theTable (even though I don’t recollect the Kingmaker getting there officially) and Ilsa with Elsie vs Mother whom I thought was known as Red Widow but whatever it should be one hell of a showdown.🙃
Meanwhile I tripped over a very rushed book. I can understand wanting to get the words out but what the hell. ONE read through could have wiped out an incredible amount of errors. I’m not talking small the ENTIRE book just needed one red pen from any person with the grasp of the English language! It’s was disappointing and seemed that at some point the author decided the agent in the FBI needed a sex change but didn’t thoroughly complete the surgery.
Perhaps the speech rec program mixed words up added new ones? It was very sloppy from an otherwise well thought out book. I only hope we can have the final book be given to some high school students at the very least to read and comment on punctuation,spelling, words in general...just a suggestion.
Anyway the story itself could end there but one wonders just what two people at theTable (even though I don’t recollect the Kingmaker getting there officially) and Ilsa with Elsie vs Mother whom I thought was known as Red Widow but whatever it should be one hell of a showdown.🙃
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 29, 2019This book needs some serious editing. There were so many typos that it was hard to follow the story at times. Was Agent Ramon a male or female? The use of pronouns was so confusing.
June 29, 2023
AHAHAHAHAHAHBAAH
January 3, 2020
I don't know if my problem was too high expectations or it was the story itself. While I liked the story, I didn't LOVE the story, you know?
The last 2 books in the series have been fillers while those who haven't read the Mercenaries series catches up on the details and a few gaps are filled in. So I understand why those seemed a bit slower than the first two. I was so ready for this one to really kick in and blow me a way now everyone was working on the same page, but it was just... meh.
The first 90% of the book was pretty slow and boring, and while there were some big moments, I just didn't feel it. London Miller is absolutely fantastic at building emotion and tension in scenes, so I am confident that I am the problem here.
I definitely didn't see the plot twist coming and I do look forward to the finale. I'm just hoping there is more connection in the finale!
The last 2 books in the series have been fillers while those who haven't read the Mercenaries series catches up on the details and a few gaps are filled in. So I understand why those seemed a bit slower than the first two. I was so ready for this one to really kick in and blow me a way now everyone was working on the same page, but it was just... meh.
The first 90% of the book was pretty slow and boring, and while there were some big moments, I just didn't feel it. London Miller is absolutely fantastic at building emotion and tension in scenes, so I am confident that I am the problem here.
I definitely didn't see the plot twist coming and I do look forward to the finale. I'm just hoping there is more connection in the finale!
December 29, 2019
The plot thickens.
Huge cliffhanger ending but leaves you with hope.
Huge cliffhanger ending but leaves you with hope.
October 15, 2021
Perfect!! Cannot wait for the last part
December 20, 2022
Sooo good and the last thing-y before this book ended, was going to dive into the final book but Amazon messed up the release maybe uh🙃
April 29, 2022
IM SO SHOCKED I don't like these cliffhangers bro
January 7, 2020
… Did I just read a rough draft?! Cos damn, I got so much whiplash reading this. Nevermind the typos and lack of tight editing or editing in general. Going from chapter to chapter it took some time to figure out who the focus was and who was saying what. Our main characters took a backseat in this book. Honestly didn’t feel like a lot happened besides Elise uncovering the truth which uncovered a plot twist that just changed the whole game and narrative of things. This book really lowered the bar that I have for the next and final book of this series.
January 6, 2020
The cat and mouse game between Uilleam and Karina, the main couple, continues in book 5, Dark Horse, but make no mistake, my fellow Kingmaker Saga book loving friends, the lines become blurry on who is actually chasing whom.
With a whole new strategy right from the get go and an unexpected, heart wrenching, huge twist near the end, all bets are off on just how far these destined to be together again lovebirds will go to achieve their goal. Fortunately for them, family has a way of meddling and not staying out of the fray when it really counts.
Thrown into the mix are hints at two separate side couples who seem destined to tangle together, as well. Here’s to hoping we see those two romances unfold eventually. I just wish the sister’s names of Uilleam and Karina were not so dang similar. Surely I’m not the only one who struggled to keep Isla and Elsie names straight in my head, especially when they were conversing. Maybe it was also because they both played very similar roles here.
The real icing on the cake though is the whole new vendetta of lethal revenge about to be unleashed on a character we all love to hate. Yeah, that person more than deserves it, and I’m pretty sure they will finally get what is coming to them. However, we all know they won't go down without a fight.
Sound intriguing? Well, you can bet your bottom dollar it is. I suggest you play catch up, if you haven’t already, by starting with book 1, White Rabbit: The Rise. It is absolutely essential not to skip a single story since this is not a stand-alone. Here’s to hoping the next book will be released sooner rather than later so we won’t be kept in the dark longer than necessary.
Title: Dark Horse, Series: The Kingmaker Saga (Book 5), Author: London Miller, Pages: 242, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, to be continued, Kindle Unlimited version, celibate during separation, no OM/OW drama, no love triangle, slow paced, big reveal at the end.
Book 1 - White Rabbit: The Rise
Book 2 - White Rabbit: The Fall
Book 3 - Black Swan
Book 4 - Red Herring
Book 5 - Dark Horse
(I read and reviewed a Kindle Unlimited version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)
With a whole new strategy right from the get go and an unexpected, heart wrenching, huge twist near the end, all bets are off on just how far these destined to be together again lovebirds will go to achieve their goal. Fortunately for them, family has a way of meddling and not staying out of the fray when it really counts.
Thrown into the mix are hints at two separate side couples who seem destined to tangle together, as well. Here’s to hoping we see those two romances unfold eventually. I just wish the sister’s names of Uilleam and Karina were not so dang similar. Surely I’m not the only one who struggled to keep Isla and Elsie names straight in my head, especially when they were conversing. Maybe it was also because they both played very similar roles here.
The real icing on the cake though is the whole new vendetta of lethal revenge about to be unleashed on a character we all love to hate. Yeah, that person more than deserves it, and I’m pretty sure they will finally get what is coming to them. However, we all know they won't go down without a fight.
Sound intriguing? Well, you can bet your bottom dollar it is. I suggest you play catch up, if you haven’t already, by starting with book 1, White Rabbit: The Rise. It is absolutely essential not to skip a single story since this is not a stand-alone. Here’s to hoping the next book will be released sooner rather than later so we won’t be kept in the dark longer than necessary.
Title: Dark Horse, Series: The Kingmaker Saga (Book 5), Author: London Miller, Pages: 242, not a stand-alone, must read books in order, to be continued, Kindle Unlimited version, celibate during separation, no OM/OW drama, no love triangle, slow paced, big reveal at the end.
Book 1 - White Rabbit: The Rise
Book 2 - White Rabbit: The Fall
Book 3 - Black Swan
Book 4 - Red Herring
Book 5 - Dark Horse
(I read and reviewed a Kindle Unlimited version of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I was not given any payment or compensation for this review, nor is there any affiliation or relationship between this reviewer and the author/publisher/PR firm.)
November 7, 2025
I will never understand why she didn’t just write this book in three parts and be done.
What was the purpose of this trial? To rebuild his image and empire? Introduce us to additional characters?
What was the reason?
If it was to reignite the romantic relationship between Karina and Uilleam, I am not convinced.
I understand holding on to your anger and being unable to process any other feeling until you sate that one. But I needed more to believe she wouldn’t be salivating at her hard work. Because switching the villain doesn’t change the fact that Karina orchestrated his outing and subsequent trial.
Uilleam has been a love sick puppy since the day he took Karina’s virginity in Paris so none of his decisions surprise me.
However, there were way more interesting story lines I would have liked to tug. Especially Elsie. I sure hope we get a book about her. Maybe we will find out in the final installment but I still don’t understand her motives and vices. She is certainly a level of crazy. I just can’t make sense of it.
I love that Bishop is back and I want more of him. He feels more like coming home and I love the rag tag team Uilleam is putting together and what they might be capable of in the future.
Now for the plot twist.
I think anyone who is an avid reader already predicted this. I questioned myself once during Black Swan or maybe Red Herring. But I figured this is where we would land.
As such, this did not have the desired effect on me. I would have rather something bigger to surprise me. It is also crazy that all of this is so Katherine can have a seat at The Table. Ambition maybe?
I look forward to understanding what this new character was taught and how the world will inevitably circle around her going forward.
I still don’t care much for Uilleam and Karina as a couple but I will never not love Uilleam’s character. I read this series for his POVs and nothing more.
What was the purpose of this trial? To rebuild his image and empire? Introduce us to additional characters?
What was the reason?
If it was to reignite the romantic relationship between Karina and Uilleam, I am not convinced.
I understand holding on to your anger and being unable to process any other feeling until you sate that one. But I needed more to believe she wouldn’t be salivating at her hard work. Because switching the villain doesn’t change the fact that Karina orchestrated his outing and subsequent trial.
Uilleam has been a love sick puppy since the day he took Karina’s virginity in Paris so none of his decisions surprise me.
However, there were way more interesting story lines I would have liked to tug. Especially Elsie. I sure hope we get a book about her. Maybe we will find out in the final installment but I still don’t understand her motives and vices. She is certainly a level of crazy. I just can’t make sense of it.
I love that Bishop is back and I want more of him. He feels more like coming home and I love the rag tag team Uilleam is putting together and what they might be capable of in the future.
Now for the plot twist.
I think anyone who is an avid reader already predicted this. I questioned myself once during Black Swan or maybe Red Herring. But I figured this is where we would land.
As such, this did not have the desired effect on me. I would have rather something bigger to surprise me. It is also crazy that all of this is so Katherine can have a seat at The Table. Ambition maybe?
I look forward to understanding what this new character was taught and how the world will inevitably circle around her going forward.
I still don’t care much for Uilleam and Karina as a couple but I will never not love Uilleam’s character. I read this series for his POVs and nothing more.
December 29, 2019
“She just wanted him. She didn’t give herself a chance to think about what they were doing or the ramifications of it all. Instead, she just folded herself into him and finally, finally, let him kiss the breath right out of her.”
Belladona has got what she wanted, ruining the name and reputation of the Kingmaker.
The Kingmaker is arrested and will have to go to trial for his crimes. But his sister Elise suggests a plan to emerge victorious from this whole affair.
But Elise also investigated the circumstances surrounding the day that the Kingmaker and Belladona’s daughter died discovering a truth that none of the parties expected.
The true enemy of the couple is discovered at the end and these characters are already dangerous individually, I am dying to see what they are able to do once they join to face their common enemy.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Belladona consiguió lo que quería, arruinar el nombre y la reputación del Kingmaker.
El Kingmaker es arrestado y tendrá que ir a juicio por sus crímenes. Pero su hermana Elise le sugiere un plan para salir victorioso de todo este asunto.
Pero Elise también investiga las circunstancias acerca del día en el que la hija de Belladona y el Kingmaker muere, descubriendo una verdad que ninguna de las partes se espera.
El verdadero enemigo de la pareja se descubre al final y estos personajes si ya son peligrosos de forma individual, me muero por ver de lo que son capaces una vez que se unan para enfrentarse a su enemigo común.
October 31, 2020
I am going to write this review for all 5 books in the “Kingmaker” series.
It’s been a while since I read a series that kept my attention...even during the slow-moving parts!! But...it definitely kept my attention.
I would give the 5 books 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, but:
1. the ONLY highlights I kept were of the blatant typos/grammatical errors that should have been caught by the writer AND ESPECIALLY BY THE EDITOR!!!! I brushed them off at first, but then it got so bad I had to keep track of a few of them. (See my highlights)
2. I also didn’t like the timeline...it was TOO long. “Two years later”, “Three years later”...I mean, these people were driven and impatient. NO WAY IN HELL would they wait that long for ANYTHING. Also, they pop from country to country like it’s nothing.
3. We didn’t really ever know what her mom did...not really.
4. I needed more to read on his suffering after he fell.
5. She was TOO young and so was he. It wouldn’t have been necessary if TEN years hadn’t have passed through the 5 books. See #2👆🏻
Moving on...what did I love?
* the characters were great...and the ones you want to know more about will have their own books! Bonus!
* the story line was somewhat original...organized crime boss meets journalist...but wait...she’s not what you think!
* the fact that it wasn’t filled with smut. Were there hot scenes?...sure...but that wasn’t the story line at all.
I write this knowing she will probably ruin it with a 6th “happily ever after” book...so I’m giving her the benefit of the doubt. Now, I’m going to read about Skorpion, Syn, Calavera, Red, Celt...and maybe (hopefully) a good ending for Orion and Elsie/Zoran! On to the mercenaries! Yes!
It’s been a while since I read a series that kept my attention...even during the slow-moving parts!! But...it definitely kept my attention.
I would give the 5 books 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, but:
1. the ONLY highlights I kept were of the blatant typos/grammatical errors that should have been caught by the writer AND ESPECIALLY BY THE EDITOR!!!! I brushed them off at first, but then it got so bad I had to keep track of a few of them. (See my highlights)
2. I also didn’t like the timeline...it was TOO long. “Two years later”, “Three years later”...I mean, these people were driven and impatient. NO WAY IN HELL would they wait that long for ANYTHING. Also, they pop from country to country like it’s nothing.
3. We didn’t really ever know what her mom did...not really.
4. I needed more to read on his suffering after he fell.
5. She was TOO young and so was he. It wouldn’t have been necessary if TEN years hadn’t have passed through the 5 books. See #2👆🏻
Moving on...what did I love?
* the characters were great...and the ones you want to know more about will have their own books! Bonus!
* the story line was somewhat original...organized crime boss meets journalist...but wait...she’s not what you think!
* the fact that it wasn’t filled with smut. Were there hot scenes?...sure...but that wasn’t the story line at all.
I write this knowing she will probably ruin it with a 6th “happily ever after” book...so I’m giving her the benefit of the doubt. Now, I’m going to read about Skorpion, Syn, Calavera, Red, Celt...and maybe (hopefully) a good ending for Orion and Elsie/Zoran! On to the mercenaries! Yes!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2020
Dark Horse , I have been waiting patiently for this book . It is close step to the end of this Saga. I always read unexpected events in London 's books so I wasn't surprised at all . The book is well written . All the characters faced their fears bravely. They fought their regrets to have the greatest prize which is their love. Karina was exactly a wounded animal who fought for her loss and pain . To admit your mistakes and give up your ego it is something you must honor and respect which was cLear for all of them.
Finally we are up close to the great final of this war. I have one thing to ask why another book. You can end this war in this book . I understand the turn of events but this book could be different if you finished the great scheme in this book. I like the role of every new character in this book and how brilliantly they changed their loyalties with each new discovery. I hope next book would be released soon because I think their revenge would be epic.
Finally we are up close to the great final of this war. I have one thing to ask why another book. You can end this war in this book . I understand the turn of events but this book could be different if you finished the great scheme in this book. I like the role of every new character in this book and how brilliantly they changed their loyalties with each new discovery. I hope next book would be released soon because I think their revenge would be epic.
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December 31, 2019Dark Horse: The Kingmaker Saga #3
This installment of The Kingmaker series was great. Left me wanting more. That ending WHAT!?! And hopefully, we get to see more the War Dogs and that dreamboat, Orion. The only con I had, was the editing was not great. I’m sure with Baby Minion on the way, it was difficult. Still a 5 Star read for me, and I’m living for what’s in store for Mother. As always, it’s a pleasure to read your books Ms. Miller.
Plot~ 5/5
Main Characters~ 5/5
Secondary Characters~ 5/5
The Feels~ 5/5
Pacing~ 5/5
Addictiveness~5/5
Theme or Tone~ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 5/5
Originality~ 5/5
Ending~ 5/5
Book Cover~ Excellent
Series~ Book 5 of 6?
Source~ Kindle eBook
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
This installment of The Kingmaker series was great. Left me wanting more. That ending WHAT!?! And hopefully, we get to see more the War Dogs and that dreamboat, Orion. The only con I had, was the editing was not great. I’m sure with Baby Minion on the way, it was difficult. Still a 5 Star read for me, and I’m living for what’s in store for Mother. As always, it’s a pleasure to read your books Ms. Miller.
Plot~ 5/5
Main Characters~ 5/5
Secondary Characters~ 5/5
The Feels~ 5/5
Pacing~ 5/5
Addictiveness~5/5
Theme or Tone~ 5/5
Flow (Writing Style)~ 5/5
Backdrop (World Building)~ 5/5
Originality~ 5/5
Ending~ 5/5
Book Cover~ Excellent
Series~ Book 5 of 6?
Source~ Kindle eBook
Would I read more from this author? Yes
Would I recommend this book? Yes
January 16, 2020
First, the reason why I gave it
4 stars instead of my usual 5 for London Miller books but especially this series is because of the God-awful amount of editing errors that were in this book. Some words were missing from sentences so I was left to fill in the blanks, males were referred to as she or her and vice-versa, and so on. It was bad. Also the story did feel a bit rushed compared to the last 4 installments. And I really thought this was supposed to the 5th and final installment but there has to be another one! I hate unfinished stories. I usually wait until a series is finished before starting it. On the plus side I really love these characters. I liked that we get some POVs of Elsie and Isla in this book. I wonder though, will the Jackal have a book of his own? I really hope so. I will definitely be waiting for the conclusion of this series, can’t wait.
4 stars instead of my usual 5 for London Miller books but especially this series is because of the God-awful amount of editing errors that were in this book. Some words were missing from sentences so I was left to fill in the blanks, males were referred to as she or her and vice-versa, and so on. It was bad. Also the story did feel a bit rushed compared to the last 4 installments. And I really thought this was supposed to the 5th and final installment but there has to be another one! I hate unfinished stories. I usually wait until a series is finished before starting it. On the plus side I really love these characters. I liked that we get some POVs of Elsie and Isla in this book. I wonder though, will the Jackal have a book of his own? I really hope so. I will definitely be waiting for the conclusion of this series, can’t wait.
February 2, 2020
Finally!! All of the chess pieces have come together. The first four books did a great job of setting the stage for this book. Unlike the previous books, this one was fast paced and didn’t lull.
The ending-... I knew it, I knew it. I’m not surprised. But considering what was done. Let’s just say, she’s disgusting.
I love how the family is coming together, it’s almost ironic. Being that family molded them into who they are and yet they are allowing the pain and shared interests to make them a unit. And also I think a worthy opponent for the real culprit. Also,finally finally Karina and Ullieam will get their HEA. And as two master players of this dark twisted world, I can’t wait to see how they handle this situation.
OAN... we need a Isla and Zoran book; and a Elsie. I need their story. Too many hints were mentioned about their past.
The ending-... I knew it, I knew it. I’m not surprised. But considering what was done. Let’s just say, she’s disgusting.
I love how the family is coming together, it’s almost ironic. Being that family molded them into who they are and yet they are allowing the pain and shared interests to make them a unit. And also I think a worthy opponent for the real culprit. Also,finally finally Karina and Ullieam will get their HEA. And as two master players of this dark twisted world, I can’t wait to see how they handle this situation.
OAN... we need a Isla and Zoran book; and a Elsie. I need their story. Too many hints were mentioned about their past.
February 21, 2020
4.5 stars
Are you kidding me?!?!? I have come to expect twists and turns when it comes to this author and these characters. BUT, this?!? Yeah. I definitely didn't see this one. Never in my wildest dreams did I predict this.
This author can write suspense. This combined with amazing characters and extraordinary world-building makes this series sublime. I only had one issue in this book concerning a scene with Karina and her mother that left me really confused. I'm sure it will make sense in the next book.
I cannot wait for the finale and see Hell unleashed. Neither of these characters are what I would call nice when they have reason to cause mayhem as they seem revenge and retribution.
Are you kidding me?!?!? I have come to expect twists and turns when it comes to this author and these characters. BUT, this?!? Yeah. I definitely didn't see this one. Never in my wildest dreams did I predict this.
This author can write suspense. This combined with amazing characters and extraordinary world-building makes this series sublime. I only had one issue in this book concerning a scene with Karina and her mother that left me really confused. I'm sure it will make sense in the next book.
I cannot wait for the finale and see Hell unleashed. Neither of these characters are what I would call nice when they have reason to cause mayhem as they seem revenge and retribution.
January 2, 2020
I finished the book with tears in my eyes. God, some secrets and heartaches London Miller shone in this book. Every page I made that brought me to the end of the book and tears.
The book begins exactly where the book red herring ended. Then you start a roller coaster ride. You get to finish Dark Horse and your heart beats at 100 mph.
A great reading experience. I highly recommend starting with the first book, White Rabbit: The Rise. Breathe deeply and immerse yourself in a tremendous experience of reading fun.
Now I have to wait for the Alpha Omega. Finally ... the end where I already see London is going to embroider us.
The revenge and the return of the crown to this wonderful couple.
The book begins exactly where the book red herring ended. Then you start a roller coaster ride. You get to finish Dark Horse and your heart beats at 100 mph.
A great reading experience. I highly recommend starting with the first book, White Rabbit: The Rise. Breathe deeply and immerse yourself in a tremendous experience of reading fun.
Now I have to wait for the Alpha Omega. Finally ... the end where I already see London is going to embroider us.
The revenge and the return of the crown to this wonderful couple.
December 29, 2019
Holy Wow!! London Miller had me hooked. That end! Yass!! The final book in this series is gonna be epic. Dark Horse was everything and seeing Karina and Uilleam finally let their guard down was nothing short of amazing. The hate they harbored throughout the series is definitely love in disguise as there is a fine line between the two emotions. The author definitely delivered a read that will have you on pins and needles. I couldn’t stop turning the pages as I needed to know what was gonna happen next! This is an epic read!
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