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Potentate of Atlanta #5
Moment of Truth
9 hours, 56 minutes
Witches are marching down the streets, shifters are prowling the night, and portals to Faerie are popping up all over downtown.
Hadley has one chance to save Atlanta, but it means trusting her dark side to get it done.
The city will survive. She'll see to that. But will her soul?
Witches are marching down the streets, shifters are prowling the night, and portals to Faerie are popping up all over downtown.
Hadley has one chance to save Atlanta, but it means trusting her dark side to get it done.
The city will survive. She'll see to that. But will her soul?
Audiobook
First published January 19, 2021
508 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Edwards
104 books2,839 followersHailey Edwards writes about questionable applications of otherwise perfectly good magic, the transformative power of love, the family you choose for yourself, and blowing stuff up. Not necessarily all at once. That could get messy.
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
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https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
March 14, 2022
Another amazing storyline with a fabulous conclusion. Not quite as nail-biting as it's predecessor but
Moment of Truth
does bring everything together without leaving too many loose ends... However, there's one or two things I'd of liked to read about given the time but hopefully the Epilogue will satisfy those desires!
I have loved every book in this series and without a doubt it has been unexpected, delightful and definitely a journey. Having picked up the first book just to browse it to devouring the series has been an amazing adventure!!
I have loved every book in this series and without a doubt it has been unexpected, delightful and definitely a journey. Having picked up the first book just to browse it to devouring the series has been an amazing adventure!!
May 5, 2022
This is the fifth, and final, story in an Urban Fantasy series (okay, there's an extra epilogue, but I generally ignore those). I definitely recommend reading in order as everything leads to this one.
I'm still not that thrilled with the antagonists in this. Well, until we learn that is at the heart of their plotting. Great twist, and that did a lot to invest me in the action. And this story is mainly action because we're at the payoff point for all the character arcs to this point. And I loved that very, very much. I particularly liked developments with Remy and Bishop, but all the relationships come together both organically and beautifully and that's no mean feat.
I was engaged with this from the start and had a hard time putting it down. The Ambrose, Midas, Hadley triumvirate, in particular, comes together with some oomph behind it. And the climax was awesome.
I should note that Edwards leaves herself open to criticism because this book ends some six months before Hadley's apprenticeship is over. So we don't see the end of her goal to become the Potentate (which is apparently what happens in the epilogue). I didn't feel this lack. Atlanta comes together to unite behind Hadley in repulsing the invading coven and her earning their trust and backing in a difficult fight was everything I wanted in that payoff. Atlanta is in her capable hands and I don't really care about whatever handover takes place to make that official.
So I'm giving this all five stars, though I'll admit that's more on entertainment/engagement than anything else. I mean, there's no real surprises (beyond the one twist and that one was more-or-less obvious however much I missed it coming), and each conflict went about how you'd expect, and the resolutions reached could have been predicted at the start of the series. But I don't care about any of that for how well this delivered what I wanted to read.
A note about Steamy: There's a single explicit sex scene and a little fooling around putting this on the low end of my steam tolerance. Frankly, all of that was gratuitous and unnecessary. Though I didn't mind that, honestly.
I'm still not that thrilled with the antagonists in this. Well, until we learn that is at the heart of their plotting. Great twist, and that did a lot to invest me in the action. And this story is mainly action because we're at the payoff point for all the character arcs to this point. And I loved that very, very much. I particularly liked developments with Remy and Bishop, but all the relationships come together both organically and beautifully and that's no mean feat.
I was engaged with this from the start and had a hard time putting it down. The Ambrose, Midas, Hadley triumvirate, in particular, comes together with some oomph behind it. And the climax was awesome.
I should note that Edwards leaves herself open to criticism because this book ends some six months before Hadley's apprenticeship is over. So we don't see the end of her goal to become the Potentate (which is apparently what happens in the epilogue). I didn't feel this lack. Atlanta comes together to unite behind Hadley in repulsing the invading coven and her earning their trust and backing in a difficult fight was everything I wanted in that payoff. Atlanta is in her capable hands and I don't really care about whatever handover takes place to make that official.
So I'm giving this all five stars, though I'll admit that's more on entertainment/engagement than anything else. I mean, there's no real surprises (beyond the one twist and that one was more-or-less obvious however much I missed it coming), and each conflict went about how you'd expect, and the resolutions reached could have been predicted at the start of the series. But I don't care about any of that for how well this delivered what I wanted to read.
A note about Steamy: There's a single explicit sex scene and a little fooling around putting this on the low end of my steam tolerance. Frankly, all of that was gratuitous and unnecessary. Though I didn't mind that, honestly.
June 26, 2025
I just want to lick this cover. Anyone else? Or just me?
This is one of my favorite series, and this was a solid entry. It wrapped up a lot of plot threads in a satisfying way ... wrapped them so solidly that I started to worry that this is the series finale. Is it? I haven't seen anything indicating that. Please no!
If I had a quibble, it was that things were paced sooooo fast that there wasn't a ton of weight to each thread as it was tied off. But that's just a quibble, because I enjoyed the heck out of it and I love all these characters.
More, please!
Re-read June 2025
Man, this series is tragically underrated.
This finale (there's a book 6, but it is an epilogue novella) spins an intricate plot, and even on re-read I had my heart in my throat because I couldn't remember if everyone makes it.
One thing I want to call out that I particularly love in this series is Tisdale. Midas's mother could easily have been another pain point for Hadley. She's alpha of the largest, longest established pack in the world, so we know she's a ball breaker. But she is a truly lovely, loving character that I just adored, and the relationship that grew between Tisdale and Hadley was beautiful. There are so many things I love about this series, but I had to highlight that one. I feel like it's rare to get a strong, healthy maternal relationship in UF (you get the occasional father relationship, but I seriously can't think of another with a solid mother to a main character), and I loved every bit of it.
This is one of my favorite series, and this was a solid entry. It wrapped up a lot of plot threads in a satisfying way ... wrapped them so solidly that I started to worry that this is the series finale. Is it? I haven't seen anything indicating that. Please no!
If I had a quibble, it was that things were paced sooooo fast that there wasn't a ton of weight to each thread as it was tied off. But that's just a quibble, because I enjoyed the heck out of it and I love all these characters.
More, please!
Re-read June 2025
Man, this series is tragically underrated.
This finale (there's a book 6, but it is an epilogue novella) spins an intricate plot, and even on re-read I had my heart in my throat because I couldn't remember if everyone makes it.
One thing I want to call out that I particularly love in this series is Tisdale. Midas's mother could easily have been another pain point for Hadley. She's alpha of the largest, longest established pack in the world, so we know she's a ball breaker. But she is a truly lovely, loving character that I just adored, and the relationship that grew between Tisdale and Hadley was beautiful. There are so many things I love about this series, but I had to highlight that one. I feel like it's rare to get a strong, healthy maternal relationship in UF (you get the occasional father relationship, but I seriously can't think of another with a solid mother to a main character), and I loved every bit of it.
June 9, 2023
Moment of Truth is the fifth book in the Potentate of Atlanta series by Hailey Edwards.
In Moment of Truth we continue the battle with the fae coven. In the previous book, Proof of Life, we had a lot of turmoil and learning for Hadley, now we have the actual battle to fight the coven and try to settle things down.
It has a lot going on and at times felt a bit overwhelming. I felt for Hadley and the gang. I wondered if they will win and who will survive.
Hadley’s relationship with Midas is affirmed. They have trust, but they don’t want to lose each other, so they end of protecting each other more than doing what is necessary.
Ambrose is such a cool character. He ends up being a big help. There are risks allowing him to do things, but he and Hadley come to an understanding. She doesn’t full trust him and she shouldn’t, but he does show that he supports her and wants to help.
Hadley’s got a great team and they work together to take down the fae coven. We see Hadley asking for help and advice. She also thinks about all the groups and citizens in Atlanta and how she can protect and help them.
Moment of Truth wraps up the over all fae coven ARC and ends the series nicely. I do hope we get to see this group again and find out if Hadley becomes the Potentate of Atlanta instead of an apprentices.
Overall, this was another action-packed adventure full of fun characters. I highly recommend Edwards.
Rated: 4 Stars
In Moment of Truth we continue the battle with the fae coven. In the previous book, Proof of Life, we had a lot of turmoil and learning for Hadley, now we have the actual battle to fight the coven and try to settle things down.
It has a lot going on and at times felt a bit overwhelming. I felt for Hadley and the gang. I wondered if they will win and who will survive.
Hadley’s relationship with Midas is affirmed. They have trust, but they don’t want to lose each other, so they end of protecting each other more than doing what is necessary.
Ambrose is such a cool character. He ends up being a big help. There are risks allowing him to do things, but he and Hadley come to an understanding. She doesn’t full trust him and she shouldn’t, but he does show that he supports her and wants to help.
Hadley’s got a great team and they work together to take down the fae coven. We see Hadley asking for help and advice. She also thinks about all the groups and citizens in Atlanta and how she can protect and help them.
Moment of Truth wraps up the over all fae coven ARC and ends the series nicely. I do hope we get to see this group again and find out if Hadley becomes the Potentate of Atlanta instead of an apprentices.
Overall, this was another action-packed adventure full of fun characters. I highly recommend Edwards.
Rated: 4 Stars
January 23, 2021
I wanted to give this 4 stars. I really did. But, I just can't.
Did not really enjoy this one. I felt the plot was convoluted and confusing. I'm not really sure I understand the what or the why of the mystery here. There was banter. But, it was nestled in a cloud of bewilderment. It almost felt like . . . the author felt like she knew where she wanted the story to go, couldn't figure out how to get it there, and slapped it incoherently on a page. (Sorry, Hailey, I do love ya!) I wish she had taken just a bit more time and made this one a little more cohesive.
I finished it. But, I am still not sure what happened. And, at *some* point, Hadley has to be strong enough to know she needs help and can't do it all on her own. Asking for help is NOT weakness - it is a strength to recognize when you are in over your head. If asking for help would have saved lives and property, it should have been done.
Color me disappointed. I expected more.
Did not really enjoy this one. I felt the plot was convoluted and confusing. I'm not really sure I understand the what or the why of the mystery here. There was banter. But, it was nestled in a cloud of bewilderment. It almost felt like . . . the author felt like she knew where she wanted the story to go, couldn't figure out how to get it there, and slapped it incoherently on a page. (Sorry, Hailey, I do love ya!) I wish she had taken just a bit more time and made this one a little more cohesive.
I finished it. But, I am still not sure what happened. And, at *some* point, Hadley has to be strong enough to know she needs help and can't do it all on her own. Asking for help is NOT weakness - it is a strength to recognize when you are in over your head. If asking for help would have saved lives and property, it should have been done.
Color me disappointed. I expected more.
January 24, 2021
Action-packed with plenty of humor along the way. Love the world and the characters, just wish there had been more depth beyond the action. While the relationships are scrumptious, they were pretty much surface only in this one.
March 31, 2021
Things are escalating with the Faeborn witches, and time is running out on the deal they made with Natisha. Aspects of this felt like the final book, but there is so much more I want to know. I loved learning more about Bishop and want his story. I loved seeing Hadley come into her own, but she still has some room for growth.
Hadley, Ambrose, Remy and Midas descend into the Archive in this episode and it was brilliant. I enjoyed seeing more of Ambrose’s personality. Remy is badass. I love that girl, all eight versions of her!
This story contained a ton of action as Edwards pulled in threads and tied off Natasha’s story. It left little room for downtime, which was disappointing. She did manage to share interactions between the characters, make me grin about Lillian, and gave us more on Tinsdale.
Fans of urban fantasy, snark and fast-paced adventure will enjoy this series. I recommend reading this series in the order of its release. Crossing my fingers that this series isn’t over. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Hadley, Ambrose, Remy and Midas descend into the Archive in this episode and it was brilliant. I enjoyed seeing more of Ambrose’s personality. Remy is badass. I love that girl, all eight versions of her!
This story contained a ton of action as Edwards pulled in threads and tied off Natasha’s story. It left little room for downtime, which was disappointing. She did manage to share interactions between the characters, make me grin about Lillian, and gave us more on Tinsdale.
Fans of urban fantasy, snark and fast-paced adventure will enjoy this series. I recommend reading this series in the order of its release. Crossing my fingers that this series isn’t over. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
January 20, 2021
Questions with few answers
This cannot be the end of this series.
I’ve now read 7 or so series by this author. Every single one starts out brilliantly as Ms. Edwards introduces readers into her fictional world, although this has been, by far, my favourite. If the introductory books were single, stand alone works, they would leave readers wanting more, but largely fulfilled because the central conflict of the first book is, for the most part, definitively resolved. And we are fortunate, in many ways, that there are more books to follow that further expands the alternate universe and draws the truly stellar characters into greater detail.
Unfortunately, Ms. Edwards rarely definitively answers the questions that she, herself, raises about significant conflicts and mysterious characters. From the Araneae series all the way through the Foundling series, including Black Dog, Lorimer, Gemini, and the denouement of TBGTN that never got around to explaining how Grier could be both a female last seed and a necromancer, much less have a baby, readers are obviously willing to read thousands of pages abundantly staying with Ms. Edwards, who never quite gets around to wrapping up these loose threads. Even now, in what is supposed to be the last book of the POA series, the series feels unfinished and I feel quite burned by the TBGTN epilogues that detract from the original series.
Ultimately, Hadley is still not the POA and has six more months remaining on her apprenticeship before she magically bonds with the city itself. We still know virtually nothing about Ambrose or Bishop and fully nothing about Anca, Reece, or Milo. The rather sudden twist of book 4 that transformed a close ally into a villain is barely mentioned, begging the question; what purpose does book 4 have in the greater context of the series? It read like a non sequitur at the time and feels even more disconnected now.
Much like book 6 or TBTGN, book 5 of POA crams more information into a single book than it can reasonably hold. The Faraday is under siege and it happens entirely off book. Midas’s undefined time in Faerie is told in a handful of flashbacks just like the abuse Hadley suffered at the hands of her mother are told entirely in hints, despite book 5 taking place in Faerie and Hadley’s mother appearing in book 4. Part of what makes these characters work is that they have complicated histories that continue to influence their present, but Ms. Edwards flinched away from bringing these issues into the light.
I’ve mentioned it before, but it bears repeating that the epilogues of TBGTN make even less sense after reading the full POA series. If Hadley and Midas are mated and likely married, why would they avoid one another at Grier and Linus’s wedding? Why wouldn’t they have come to Grier’s baby shower?
As it is, the answers provided in this final book simply raise more questions.
This cannot be the end of this series.
I’ve now read 7 or so series by this author. Every single one starts out brilliantly as Ms. Edwards introduces readers into her fictional world, although this has been, by far, my favourite. If the introductory books were single, stand alone works, they would leave readers wanting more, but largely fulfilled because the central conflict of the first book is, for the most part, definitively resolved. And we are fortunate, in many ways, that there are more books to follow that further expands the alternate universe and draws the truly stellar characters into greater detail.
Unfortunately, Ms. Edwards rarely definitively answers the questions that she, herself, raises about significant conflicts and mysterious characters. From the Araneae series all the way through the Foundling series, including Black Dog, Lorimer, Gemini, and the denouement of TBGTN that never got around to explaining how Grier could be both a female last seed and a necromancer, much less have a baby, readers are obviously willing to read thousands of pages abundantly staying with Ms. Edwards, who never quite gets around to wrapping up these loose threads. Even now, in what is supposed to be the last book of the POA series, the series feels unfinished and I feel quite burned by the TBGTN epilogues that detract from the original series.
Ultimately, Hadley is still not the POA and has six more months remaining on her apprenticeship before she magically bonds with the city itself. We still know virtually nothing about Ambrose or Bishop and fully nothing about Anca, Reece, or Milo. The rather sudden twist of book 4 that transformed a close ally into a villain is barely mentioned, begging the question; what purpose does book 4 have in the greater context of the series? It read like a non sequitur at the time and feels even more disconnected now.
Much like book 6 or TBTGN, book 5 of POA crams more information into a single book than it can reasonably hold. The Faraday is under siege and it happens entirely off book. Midas’s undefined time in Faerie is told in a handful of flashbacks just like the abuse Hadley suffered at the hands of her mother are told entirely in hints, despite book 5 taking place in Faerie and Hadley’s mother appearing in book 4. Part of what makes these characters work is that they have complicated histories that continue to influence their present, but Ms. Edwards flinched away from bringing these issues into the light.
I’ve mentioned it before, but it bears repeating that the epilogues of TBGTN make even less sense after reading the full POA series. If Hadley and Midas are mated and likely married, why would they avoid one another at Grier and Linus’s wedding? Why wouldn’t they have come to Grier’s baby shower?
As it is, the answers provided in this final book simply raise more questions.
February 4, 2021
I normally really like this series, but this book was a tough one for me to get through. Despite all the action going on I found myself bored while reading and kept putting the book down. In fact it took me all day long to read, not the usual 3-4 hours.
By the end of the book I was glad that Hadley and Midas did what needed to be done. I also like the new addition to Atlanta that Hadley came up with, it was a good way to make sure things don't get bad again. The future looks good for everyone, but especially Hadley and Midas.
By the end of the book I was glad that Hadley and Midas did what needed to be done. I also like the new addition to Atlanta that Hadley came up with, it was a good way to make sure things don't get bad again. The future looks good for everyone, but especially Hadley and Midas.
February 8, 2021
I wish I could say I loved this, as I have the previous entries, but something about this one was off kilter. There were numerous times I wasn't sure who was talking, or I felt like I'd accidentally skipped a page or two. The plot was...boring. This was a disappointment. I'm only giving this 3 stars due to my overall enjoyment of the series as a whole.
January 20, 2021
Read the whole rest of the series a few weeks ago, then was excited to learn the next book would be out so soon. I was expecting it to rock, but... by the end it felt kind of meh.
I think part of the problem is that the books happen so close together in- universe that it seems like the characters aren't really growing or changing much. It feels like side characters slowly have their issues resolved, but Hadley is still somehow stuck saying and doing the same things she's been doing since book 2. Yes, she's grown into her relationship with Midas and his mom, but she personally still sees herself exactly the way she did before those relationships were built.
I know you never really leave trauma behind 100% but at some point it doesn't feel like she hasn't experienced any character growth.
I will probably still read the next one if/ when there is one, but I'd really like to see her resolving the issues with her mom herself. Or resolving any of her issues. Chugging caffeine and chocolate so you can stay awake continuously and then sleeping for more than a day are not the actions of an emotionally healthy person.
Kudos to the author for not forcing in a baby/ wedding subplot.
I think part of the problem is that the books happen so close together in- universe that it seems like the characters aren't really growing or changing much. It feels like side characters slowly have their issues resolved, but Hadley is still somehow stuck saying and doing the same things she's been doing since book 2. Yes, she's grown into her relationship with Midas and his mom, but she personally still sees herself exactly the way she did before those relationships were built.
I know you never really leave trauma behind 100% but at some point it doesn't feel like she hasn't experienced any character growth.
I will probably still read the next one if/ when there is one, but I'd really like to see her resolving the issues with her mom herself. Or resolving any of her issues. Chugging caffeine and chocolate so you can stay awake continuously and then sleeping for more than a day are not the actions of an emotionally healthy person.
Kudos to the author for not forcing in a baby/ wedding subplot.
January 20, 2021
(3.5 Stars)
“Moment of Truth” is another good installment in the Potentate of Atlanta series. This time Hadley and Midas are faced with a coven of witches who are menacing the Faraday. Surveillance is down and drones are being destroyed. As they attempt to figure out what is going on and avoid an attack on the city, they must first stop more witch reinforcements entering the city. Additionally, Remy introduces her roommate, Lillian to the gang but everyone is a little suspicious.
Midas, Hadley, Bishop and Remy make a trip into Faerie in order to destroy the portal or archive the witches are using. This brings on all kinds of problems including Hadley discovering the 5 hearts have gone missing. The problem is increase when she suspects one of her own is the culprit. Of course that might be the least of their worries when they have to face Natisha and she has sinister goals for Atlanta.
There is plenty of action, excessive banter but not a lot of heart. What do I mean? I just never really felt connected to the story. There were moments of enjoyment and laughter but I still had the feeling something was as missing. I guess for me I would like to see the emotional side of the stories. That can be hard to achieve when you have too many characters and this series seems to be growing in the number of new ones. I’m just saying!
“Moment of Truth” is another good installment in the Potentate of Atlanta series. This time Hadley and Midas are faced with a coven of witches who are menacing the Faraday. Surveillance is down and drones are being destroyed. As they attempt to figure out what is going on and avoid an attack on the city, they must first stop more witch reinforcements entering the city. Additionally, Remy introduces her roommate, Lillian to the gang but everyone is a little suspicious.
Midas, Hadley, Bishop and Remy make a trip into Faerie in order to destroy the portal or archive the witches are using. This brings on all kinds of problems including Hadley discovering the 5 hearts have gone missing. The problem is increase when she suspects one of her own is the culprit. Of course that might be the least of their worries when they have to face Natisha and she has sinister goals for Atlanta.
There is plenty of action, excessive banter but not a lot of heart. What do I mean? I just never really felt connected to the story. There were moments of enjoyment and laughter but I still had the feeling something was as missing. I guess for me I would like to see the emotional side of the stories. That can be hard to achieve when you have too many characters and this series seems to be growing in the number of new ones. I’m just saying!
January 19, 2021
It was missing something.
After devouring the first four books during 2020, I went into this expecting a wild ride with Hadley, Midas, and company. And while I did get that, I didn’t enjoy the story as much. The previous fracture of their trust in Ares was put on the back burner and I felt a little mad at the lack of exploration of that betrayal.
Still, it wasn’t a bad story. Fast paced and action packed. It just wasn’t what I was looking for. But will definitely be picking up the next book.
3.5 stars ⭐️
After devouring the first four books during 2020, I went into this expecting a wild ride with Hadley, Midas, and company. And while I did get that, I didn’t enjoy the story as much. The previous fracture of their trust in Ares was put on the back burner and I felt a little mad at the lack of exploration of that betrayal.
Still, it wasn’t a bad story. Fast paced and action packed. It just wasn’t what I was looking for. But will definitely be picking up the next book.
3.5 stars ⭐️
January 21, 2021
Ahh. I remember the days of old, back before I picked up book 1 and how I wondered if I'd ever like Hadley as a character as much as I liked Grier. I mean, Hadley/Amelie had done some pretty heinous things and her betrayal cut deep against a character I adored. So Hadley came into the ring with a few points against her.
But she did it. She found her footing and her strength. She fought even when it would have been easiest to walk away. She became the woman she wanted to be (even though she doesn't often see that about herself). She also found Midas and saw him facing some of the same struggles she faces on a daily basis. (And, BOY, do I adore those two together. My *heart eyes* are strong when I look at them.)
Speaking of throwing herself into battle (were we speaking of that? Well, consider it said. Hadley throws herself into battle even when the odds are overwhelmingly against her.), Hadley and her crew are on the offensive against a veritable horde of evil. Witches that can change their skin and fae that want retribution. Things are sticky and Hadley's right in the thick of it.
A whole lot of danger, a little walking between worlds, friends, family, and those who will stand beside Hadley no matter what. Hadley and Midas both have pasts they needed to face and seeing them come to terms with all of it was GLORIOUS. Plus, those two just can't stop accidentally taking control of packs, can they? GOOD TIMES!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
But she did it. She found her footing and her strength. She fought even when it would have been easiest to walk away. She became the woman she wanted to be (even though she doesn't often see that about herself). She also found Midas and saw him facing some of the same struggles she faces on a daily basis. (And, BOY, do I adore those two together. My *heart eyes* are strong when I look at them.)
Speaking of throwing herself into battle (were we speaking of that? Well, consider it said. Hadley throws herself into battle even when the odds are overwhelmingly against her.), Hadley and her crew are on the offensive against a veritable horde of evil. Witches that can change their skin and fae that want retribution. Things are sticky and Hadley's right in the thick of it.
A whole lot of danger, a little walking between worlds, friends, family, and those who will stand beside Hadley no matter what. Hadley and Midas both have pasts they needed to face and seeing them come to terms with all of it was GLORIOUS. Plus, those two just can't stop accidentally taking control of packs, can they? GOOD TIMES!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 23, 2021
We are at the end of Hadley’s series, and I’m left with wanting more. More of Hadley, more of Midas, just more!! This definitely wraps up in a good way, and I thought this book was just as good as the rest in the series with great action, writing, and character development. However, this book definitely doesn’t feel like the end of other characters in the series, and I’m left feeling like I need to see more. Of course, that’s a good thing in a series because that means I loved it and the characters. I would NOT be disappointed if we saw more of Bishop, Remy, Ambrose, Lillian, heck, everyone. I feel dissatisfied but in a good way. I don’t want these characters to go away. You’ll see. Just read it and find out! Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 26, 2021
Is this a finale? It felt like a finale. So glad to see more about Bishop! Love him. For once Hadley doesn’t get blown up although they talk about it... a lot. A great read, a little slow near the beginning.
January 25, 2021
Nice wrap up!
A complex but nice wrap up for the Natisha story. I really love both Midas and Hadley’s relationships with Tisdale. This series is all about the mothers....
A complex but nice wrap up for the Natisha story. I really love both Midas and Hadley’s relationships with Tisdale. This series is all about the mothers....
March 25, 2021
I really love this characters but I'm so glad that this coven debacle is over. The story seemed stalled to me.
February 11, 2023
Page turner!
I couldn't put this story down. I love the characters and how they work together. One of the supporting characters that's really growing on me is Remy with Ambrose pulling up in second place. Remy's a hoot and I just can't help but root for Ambrose.
I love this series is much. If you haven't read it yet you need to.
I couldn't put this story down. I love the characters and how they work together. One of the supporting characters that's really growing on me is Remy with Ambrose pulling up in second place. Remy's a hoot and I just can't help but root for Ambrose.
I love this series is much. If you haven't read it yet you need to.
April 1, 2021
I went into this with the expectation I would really like it, as I have the other books in this series, but something just kind of fell flat for me.
I think my main issue is that this book doesn't really need to exist - except for the main plot, every conflict in the relationships between the characters is already resolved.
I think this series would've been stronger if the plot was rearranged to have ended in the previous book, then we could have ended on the culmination of the romance and not keep dragging this out. I think the strong point of this series (and its predecessor) was the discussion of trauma and relationships and how to move on from a painful past and I think it did that beautifully, but once that was done, the plot itself falls kind of flat for me.
That being said, I still enjoyed this. The writing is fast-paced, the characters are fun and have small, cute moments and I was never bored reading it. I just kind of missed the charm of some of the earlier books.
I think my main issue is that this book doesn't really need to exist - except for the main plot, every conflict in the relationships between the characters is already resolved.
I think this series would've been stronger if the plot was rearranged to have ended in the previous book, then we could have ended on the culmination of the romance and not keep dragging this out. I think the strong point of this series (and its predecessor) was the discussion of trauma and relationships and how to move on from a painful past and I think it did that beautifully, but once that was done, the plot itself falls kind of flat for me.
That being said, I still enjoyed this. The writing is fast-paced, the characters are fun and have small, cute moments and I was never bored reading it. I just kind of missed the charm of some of the earlier books.
February 13, 2021
The stories in this series, The Potentate of Atlanta, are always full of action, angst, humor, and friendships, and this one was no exception. Hadley must save Atlanta from the faeborn witches, as well as a plot to harm her gwyllgi family, which involves the dangerous archive they recently discovered, lots of witches, fae and even a portal to Faerie. She’ll have to rely on her shadow, Ambrose, as well as Midas and Bishop, all of which could go wrong in all kinds of ways. Hadley has reserves of strength, courage and resolve that surprise her, but no one else and she’ll save the day and Atlanta, no matter what. I love these characters and in each story we learn a little bit more about who and what everyone is and what they can do. I can’t wait to read more in the series, new stories can’t come soon enough for me.
January 28, 2022
Ratings - completed series:
#1 Shadow of Doubt: ★★★★☆
#2 Pack of Lies: ★★★★★
#3 Change of Heart: ★★★★★
#4 Proof of Life: ★★★★☆
#5 Moment of Truth (this book): ★★★★☆
The Epilogues:
#6 Badge of Honor: ★★★★☆
#1 Shadow of Doubt: ★★★★☆
#2 Pack of Lies: ★★★★★
#3 Change of Heart: ★★★★★
#4 Proof of Life: ★★★★☆
#5 Moment of Truth (this book): ★★★★☆
The Epilogues:
#6 Badge of Honor: ★★★★☆
November 29, 2024
Hadley outwits a fae ancient, escaping what was once a hopeless agreement...
Brilliant world building and mesmerizing, addictive story/plot twists! I began this series late yesterday morning--a couple hours later, I was forced to break in the middle of book two (family Thanksgiving get-together). Four hours later, I settled in to get through the rest of the installments. While I overlooked reading The Potentate of Atlanta series until now, It worked out well, as I didn't have to impatiently await each subsequent book; instead, I've completed all but the sixth, final epilogue, which I've found preferable, like reading a saga in one go!
Talk about tense, hair-raising, phenomenally spectacular & bloody action! Hadley, with the powerful magical gifts of Bishop and the newly eager cooperation of her shadow wraith Ambrose, pulls off a coup for the city of Atlanta. The nonstop coven attacks of dark, evil magic; fast, furious, explosive battles and edgy maneuvers through unfamiliar territory with hidden traps & deadly dangers; and Hadley's irrefutable, life-changing, indomitable determination toward kindness, making decisions or taking up arms for the good of her responsibilities that include her widening, growing number of loved ones as well as all the residents and/or affiliates of her city of Atlanta.
We get to witness Hadley's growth in character: her self-confidence in her skill set; her talent & strength, especially the natural abilities she always had the potential to develop, which she learned expand into lethal or helpful tools that complemented her organization, city, and local pack resources. Fast paced, incredibly innovative, and highly imaginative, there's magic infused everywhere, from the varieties of pure fae existing within Atlanta, the fae-infused packs whose members have evolved into combinations of human, animal types, and fae blood tying them all to that which the dark coven of fae witches sought for their evil plans to wrest control of Atlanta from Hadley.
Of course we discover there's the worst possible kind of insidious, darkly nefarious plan that threatens every magical being within Atlanta's borders, and that only Hadley and her inner circle can counter. It's a brilliant, powerfully moving sequence of events that all comes together under Hadley's unique leadership. I loved everything, even the blood and gore (although I have to interject: *yuck*). The author has a strong creative flow that never runs out of juice, with wonderful characters who reiterate themes of growth and developing family and community ties, all of which culminates into a unification of a variety of factions that previously functioned as independent, isolated entities. Basically, Hadley grows in confidence, skill, and into her new job, under the guidance and assistance from her team and key powerhouses (i.e. Tisdale, Ayla, Linus ~ she had to learn to accept help🤗). Very well written, I barely noticed the miniscule number of typos! Ten out of ten stars ~ five are inadequate).
Brilliant world building and mesmerizing, addictive story/plot twists! I began this series late yesterday morning--a couple hours later, I was forced to break in the middle of book two (family Thanksgiving get-together). Four hours later, I settled in to get through the rest of the installments. While I overlooked reading The Potentate of Atlanta series until now, It worked out well, as I didn't have to impatiently await each subsequent book; instead, I've completed all but the sixth, final epilogue, which I've found preferable, like reading a saga in one go!
Talk about tense, hair-raising, phenomenally spectacular & bloody action! Hadley, with the powerful magical gifts of Bishop and the newly eager cooperation of her shadow wraith Ambrose, pulls off a coup for the city of Atlanta. The nonstop coven attacks of dark, evil magic; fast, furious, explosive battles and edgy maneuvers through unfamiliar territory with hidden traps & deadly dangers; and Hadley's irrefutable, life-changing, indomitable determination toward kindness, making decisions or taking up arms for the good of her responsibilities that include her widening, growing number of loved ones as well as all the residents and/or affiliates of her city of Atlanta.
We get to witness Hadley's growth in character: her self-confidence in her skill set; her talent & strength, especially the natural abilities she always had the potential to develop, which she learned expand into lethal or helpful tools that complemented her organization, city, and local pack resources. Fast paced, incredibly innovative, and highly imaginative, there's magic infused everywhere, from the varieties of pure fae existing within Atlanta, the fae-infused packs whose members have evolved into combinations of human, animal types, and fae blood tying them all to that which the dark coven of fae witches sought for their evil plans to wrest control of Atlanta from Hadley.
Of course we discover there's the worst possible kind of insidious, darkly nefarious plan that threatens every magical being within Atlanta's borders, and that only Hadley and her inner circle can counter. It's a brilliant, powerfully moving sequence of events that all comes together under Hadley's unique leadership. I loved everything, even the blood and gore (although I have to interject: *yuck*). The author has a strong creative flow that never runs out of juice, with wonderful characters who reiterate themes of growth and developing family and community ties, all of which culminates into a unification of a variety of factions that previously functioned as independent, isolated entities. Basically, Hadley grows in confidence, skill, and into her new job, under the guidance and assistance from her team and key powerhouses (i.e. Tisdale, Ayla, Linus ~ she had to learn to accept help🤗). Very well written, I barely noticed the miniscule number of typos! Ten out of ten stars ~ five are inadequate).
June 3, 2022
If you’re one of those people who complained that nothing happened in the last book in this series Proof of Life, you’ll most likely love Moment of Truth. There’s so much that happens in this book in regard to our team of the Atlanta Gwyllgi Pack and the O.P.A. doing battle with the Witchborn Fae Coven you can hardly catch your breath. Witchborn Fae are pouring into Atlanta from Fairie through the Faegate in Buckhorn surrounding the Faraday preparing to free a pregnant Liz. Why? Why does a group that has shown no real concern for their members lives care so much about Liz? This confrontation is truly the moment of truth for Hadley, Midas and the rest of the paranormals in Atlanta uniting to stop the invasion.
I did really enjoy this book as I have the others but there were parts of the story I just didn’t get or just didn’t make sense to me which is why it got 4 stars from me rather than 5. Why was it some fae like Remy and Bishop could pass freely between Fairie and Earth and others could not? I get that Hadley and her group had to be the heroes of saving Atlanta but it just made no sense to me that the two most powerful necromancers in the world Grier and Linus who had a close relationship with Hadley, with Linus still being the official P.O.A. remained in Savannah leaving them to fight this invasion on their own. In the Beginners Guide to Necromancy Gwyligi from the Atlanta pack came to Savannah to help Grier and Linus fight the vampire uprising. Linus and Grier and even Lethe and her pack not coming to their aide even if Hadley waived them off for fear of being perceived as “not enough” endangering Atlanta, just made no sense. Lastly as much as Hadley was often kidded in this story about her lack of planning, just throwing herself in harm’s way to save everyone, the idea that she with Remy’s aid was going to sneak into the heavily guarded Archive protected by an army of the Witchborn Coven without any real plan to sneak down and severe the ties that kept it anchored and Bishop was somehow on board with the plan or actual lack of a plan was totally unbelievable even for a fantasy story.
Another good story with plenty of action. Lots of suggested sex between Hadley and Midas. It seems Ms. Edwards limits her sex scenes to one in her series when her two protagonists have sex for the first time and that’s it. A whole lot of googli-eyed staring between the two etc. romantic gestures and I love yous. Hadley further comes to understand that she has real friends in Atlanta and begins to perceive that she can’t do it all herself. Hopefully by this series end she will come to truly believe she is enough.
I did really enjoy this book as I have the others but there were parts of the story I just didn’t get or just didn’t make sense to me which is why it got 4 stars from me rather than 5. Why was it some fae like Remy and Bishop could pass freely between Fairie and Earth and others could not? I get that Hadley and her group had to be the heroes of saving Atlanta but it just made no sense to me that the two most powerful necromancers in the world Grier and Linus who had a close relationship with Hadley, with Linus still being the official P.O.A. remained in Savannah leaving them to fight this invasion on their own. In the Beginners Guide to Necromancy Gwyligi from the Atlanta pack came to Savannah to help Grier and Linus fight the vampire uprising. Linus and Grier and even Lethe and her pack not coming to their aide even if Hadley waived them off for fear of being perceived as “not enough” endangering Atlanta, just made no sense. Lastly as much as Hadley was often kidded in this story about her lack of planning, just throwing herself in harm’s way to save everyone, the idea that she with Remy’s aid was going to sneak into the heavily guarded Archive protected by an army of the Witchborn Coven without any real plan to sneak down and severe the ties that kept it anchored and Bishop was somehow on board with the plan or actual lack of a plan was totally unbelievable even for a fantasy story.
Another good story with plenty of action. Lots of suggested sex between Hadley and Midas. It seems Ms. Edwards limits her sex scenes to one in her series when her two protagonists have sex for the first time and that’s it. A whole lot of googli-eyed staring between the two etc. romantic gestures and I love yous. Hadley further comes to understand that she has real friends in Atlanta and begins to perceive that she can’t do it all herself. Hopefully by this series end she will come to truly believe she is enough.
August 21, 2021
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I loved the Beginner's Guide to Necromancy series. They are all on Kindle Unlimited as well as this new series, The Potentate of Atlanta . It is with some characters from the original series. Hadley, ie. Amelie, is now living in Atlanta training to be the POA.
In Moment of Truth, we continue the battle against the fae coven. The previous book, Proof of Life, had a lot of turmoil and a lot of learning for Hadley. She has affirmed her relationship with Midas. I would read these books in order as the story flows along all of them.
Now we have the actual battle to fight the fae coven and try to settle things for the future. It's a little harder because both Hadley and Midas want to protect each other a little bit more than doing what is necessary. There is trust but they just really don't want to lose each other. The strategy they use is smart and pretty well planned. It is possible because of the relationships Hadley has formed, as well as the openness of secrets she has shared with Midas' family, Remy, Bishop and Linus.
Ambrose is a big chance but also a big help. There are some risks in allowing him to do some things but he and Hadley come to an even better understanding. I wouldn't say she should completely trust him but he certainly supported her and was a great help.
Hadley works with all her various team mates well including Midas, Remy, Bishop, and all the packs. She does better without throwing herself at every problem and hoping she doesn't die. She allows herself to ask Linus for help and advice. She thinks of all the citizens and groups in Atlanta and comes up with a great future plan in the end. It's my understanding this is the final book in this series and I have to say I'd like to see more of this world.
Narration:
Rebecca Mitchell is so enjoyable and I am comfortable with her as the narrator in this world. She performs male and female voices well. Her Hadley and Grier voices are a little too similar for me. I did feel there were more distinct voices for Remy and Tisdale. Midas has his own sound. I listened at my normal 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
Review copy was received from Publisher. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I loved the Beginner's Guide to Necromancy series. They are all on Kindle Unlimited as well as this new series, The Potentate of Atlanta . It is with some characters from the original series. Hadley, ie. Amelie, is now living in Atlanta training to be the POA.
In Moment of Truth, we continue the battle against the fae coven. The previous book, Proof of Life, had a lot of turmoil and a lot of learning for Hadley. She has affirmed her relationship with Midas. I would read these books in order as the story flows along all of them.
Now we have the actual battle to fight the fae coven and try to settle things for the future. It's a little harder because both Hadley and Midas want to protect each other a little bit more than doing what is necessary. There is trust but they just really don't want to lose each other. The strategy they use is smart and pretty well planned. It is possible because of the relationships Hadley has formed, as well as the openness of secrets she has shared with Midas' family, Remy, Bishop and Linus.
Ambrose is a big chance but also a big help. There are some risks in allowing him to do some things but he and Hadley come to an even better understanding. I wouldn't say she should completely trust him but he certainly supported her and was a great help.
Hadley works with all her various team mates well including Midas, Remy, Bishop, and all the packs. She does better without throwing herself at every problem and hoping she doesn't die. She allows herself to ask Linus for help and advice. She thinks of all the citizens and groups in Atlanta and comes up with a great future plan in the end. It's my understanding this is the final book in this series and I have to say I'd like to see more of this world.
Narration:
Rebecca Mitchell is so enjoyable and I am comfortable with her as the narrator in this world. She performs male and female voices well. Her Hadley and Grier voices are a little too similar for me. I did feel there were more distinct voices for Remy and Tisdale. Midas has his own sound. I listened at my normal 1.5x speed.
Listen to a clip: HERE
January 30, 2021
I absolutely loved reading the conclusion to Midas and Hadley's story--although I really hope we get a novella for the Star Trek wedding we are all craving! This story centers around the end of Hadley's deal with Midas' ancestor, Natisha. The witchborn coven has taken siege of the Faraday and Atlanta itself. Now, the dynamic duo must race against the clock to save the city they hold dear.
There were a lot of things I enjoyed about this book. The first thing being the ability to have a sneak peek into the type of fae Bishop is. He has been one of my favorite characters, and I hope with how popular this universe is Bish gets a book of his own. Another thing I loved about this book was, obviously, Hadley and Midas. Their relationship is so beautiful, and I can't help but swoon whenever they share fleeting moments and touches with each other. I think Moment of Truth was a nice conclusion and answered a lot of questions I had about their story arc. However, I am selfish and want more Potentate of Atlanta books!
The only "negative" comment I have, and it's not really that negative, is I wish we would have gotten some more explanations about Liz and her baby. Did she drug her mate for their entire relationship? Did she choose her specifically? It seems like Liz is such an integral part of the fourth of fifth books, but there wasn't as much interaction with her like I would have hoped. Hopefully, the lovely Hailey Edwards will give us the answers to the questions we so desperately crave.
All in all, just like all of her other books, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Moment of Truth, and I will wait impatiently for the next book Hailey publishes!
There were a lot of things I enjoyed about this book. The first thing being the ability to have a sneak peek into the type of fae Bishop is. He has been one of my favorite characters, and I hope with how popular this universe is Bish gets a book of his own. Another thing I loved about this book was, obviously, Hadley and Midas. Their relationship is so beautiful, and I can't help but swoon whenever they share fleeting moments and touches with each other. I think Moment of Truth was a nice conclusion and answered a lot of questions I had about their story arc. However, I am selfish and want more Potentate of Atlanta books!
The only "negative" comment I have, and it's not really that negative, is I wish we would have gotten some more explanations about Liz and her baby. Did she drug her mate for their entire relationship? Did she choose her specifically? It seems like Liz is such an integral part of the fourth of fifth books, but there wasn't as much interaction with her like I would have hoped. Hopefully, the lovely Hailey Edwards will give us the answers to the questions we so desperately crave.
All in all, just like all of her other books, I thoroughly enjoyed reading Moment of Truth, and I will wait impatiently for the next book Hailey publishes!
May 26, 2024
Where do you even begin when you wrap up a 5 book series? This was a very satisfying ending, wrapping up all the loose ends I wanted it too, but still left me wanting lots of epilogues (which I will go into right after!).
Hadley just needs to do one small thing before she can continue to her official role as Potentate - ya know, just save the city from the encroaching evil witches, lock said witches out of their “wardrobe”, and figure out her relationship with Midas. OK, so the last one kind of already worked itself out, but they still have the whole balance between Potentate and the pack to discuss.
Without getting into the details and spoilers, it was fun watching the team work together, play it their strengths, and I also really appreciated the mystery of who was behind this whole thing. There was a lot of time slippage, portal hopping, and *a lot* of “screen time” from our oddly favorite shadow. This book somehow helped me reach a certain appreciation for him and I feel pretty good about how Hadley ends this journey.
She and Midas are a perfect pair and their chosen family is even better. I was sad to say goodbye to someone, but hope they have their own update/spinoff opportunity. As a series, I am happy I took the chance and dove into the world of Hadley, even after not particularly liking her in the original series. I went on the journey with her and was happier for it!
Hadley just needs to do one small thing before she can continue to her official role as Potentate - ya know, just save the city from the encroaching evil witches, lock said witches out of their “wardrobe”, and figure out her relationship with Midas. OK, so the last one kind of already worked itself out, but they still have the whole balance between Potentate and the pack to discuss.
Without getting into the details and spoilers, it was fun watching the team work together, play it their strengths, and I also really appreciated the mystery of who was behind this whole thing. There was a lot of time slippage, portal hopping, and *a lot* of “screen time” from our oddly favorite shadow. This book somehow helped me reach a certain appreciation for him and I feel pretty good about how Hadley ends this journey.
She and Midas are a perfect pair and their chosen family is even better. I was sad to say goodbye to someone, but hope they have their own update/spinoff opportunity. As a series, I am happy I took the chance and dove into the world of Hadley, even after not particularly liking her in the original series. I went on the journey with her and was happier for it!
January 25, 2021
***Potentate of Atlanta has plenty of warm and cuddly moments, but Edwards layers each scene with enough shifter power, mystery, devouring dybbuks, sword fighting, Faerie gate crashing, and coven chanting maniacs to make her fans breathless!***
I believe this is the 17th Hailey Edwards' review I've done - hey, when you're a fan, you're a FAN! HE's Necromancy and Potentate of Atlanta series are two of my favorite things to discover in my mailbox - okay, I also adore her Foundling, Black Dog, Gemini, Lorimar, Araneae Nation, and Daughters of Askara series... what can I say, I'm all in! No one was more shocked than I was that Hadley and Midas share equal space in my heart with Grier and Linus - I'm still stunned to think it let alone write it... Following Grier's childhood sibling besties (Amelie and Boaz) in Necromancy, I admittedly wasn't a fan of either, and I'm still reserving judgment with Boaz, however, Amelie-now-Hadley is EVERYTHING a reader wants in an MC. Consider Moment of Truth a pinless grenade.
*Note - Whyyyy? Why, do I love Ambrose so very, very much?!
*Note - We learn a few things about the mysterious Bishop❣❣❣
*Note - I believe this is "supposed" to be the final book in the series - but HE might throw in an extra now and again (please Little, Tiny, Baby Jesus)...
Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
I believe this is the 17th Hailey Edwards' review I've done - hey, when you're a fan, you're a FAN! HE's Necromancy and Potentate of Atlanta series are two of my favorite things to discover in my mailbox - okay, I also adore her Foundling, Black Dog, Gemini, Lorimar, Araneae Nation, and Daughters of Askara series... what can I say, I'm all in! No one was more shocked than I was that Hadley and Midas share equal space in my heart with Grier and Linus - I'm still stunned to think it let alone write it... Following Grier's childhood sibling besties (Amelie and Boaz) in Necromancy, I admittedly wasn't a fan of either, and I'm still reserving judgment with Boaz, however, Amelie-now-Hadley is EVERYTHING a reader wants in an MC. Consider Moment of Truth a pinless grenade.
*Note - Whyyyy? Why, do I love Ambrose so very, very much?!
*Note - We learn a few things about the mysterious Bishop❣❣❣
*Note - I believe this is "supposed" to be the final book in the series - but HE might throw in an extra now and again (please Little, Tiny, Baby Jesus)...
Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews
June 26, 2025
I liked the conclusion but I will say that the romance in this book fell a lot flatter than the Grier/Linus series. I thought Midas would be good but really it was awkward and while fun in the beginning, they went from awkward to engaged so fast and then it was just done. There was no flirting, no romance, no sweet gestures - just domesticity. While I am all for domesticity; I feel like I need a little build up to it. They never even went on a date. NOT ONCE! and the fact that they didn't have sex until after that really public engagement just blew my mind.
Other than that, I liked the evolution of all the other friendships and travels to Fae lands. I had hoped for more knowledge into what exactly is Ambrose, but I understand the mystery. I liked the trust they have for each other now. And I love Bishop as usual; but his parts were too small in this one.
Natisha and her storyline was decent but the whole curse conclusion was not as I expected. I had hoped for a lot more for the end of the series. It wasn't bad, just didn't meet all my expectations.
Other than that, I liked the evolution of all the other friendships and travels to Fae lands. I had hoped for more knowledge into what exactly is Ambrose, but I understand the mystery. I liked the trust they have for each other now. And I love Bishop as usual; but his parts were too small in this one.
Natisha and her storyline was decent but the whole curse conclusion was not as I expected. I had hoped for a lot more for the end of the series. It wasn't bad, just didn't meet all my expectations.
February 9, 2021
4 Stars... Is this the last read in the series??? Not sure, there were certainly aspects of this story that felt like full circle moments and a certain conclusion, BUT then there were pieces that seemed to still need addressing... So I am simply not sure where that leaves us (Maybe some epilogues???), but I know I would love more of Hadley and Midas... That all being said, I enjoyed this read from start to finish... It certainly brought the overarching storyline to a fabulous conclusion with high intensity moments as well as the levity we love in Hailey Edwards reads... There were moments that I was looking for clarity in the sequencing of the story... I kept going back and re-reading sections to make sure I fully understood what the characters were planning and which direction they were heading... However, overall I really did enjoy this read, and like I said would love to have more, more, more:)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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