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Norcross Security #6

The Powerbroker

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She’s undercover in a dangerous motorcycle club, and her unwanted protector is the city’s most lethal man.

Police Detective Brynn Sullivan is dedicated to her job and living up to the memory of her cop father. She’s out to prove herself on her biggest case yet—stopping a dangerous drug from flooding the streets of San Francisco. She needs to go undercover with the city’s wildest, most dangerous motorcycle club, and that means using any contact she can to get in there.

Even the dark, powerful ex-military man who rules the city’s streets from the shadows—Vander Norcross.

After years fighting for his country as commander of a covert Ghost Ops team, Vander Norcross has built Norcross Security into a thriving business to keep his family and friends safe. He’s a powerbroker in San Francisco, with his finger on the pulse of what’s happening—both legal and not so legal. When his friend asks a favor putting a detective—a female one—undercover with the Iron Wanderers MC, Vander is not on board.

It goes against every protective instinct he has, but Brynn proves to be tenacious, annoying, smart, and far too tempting.

Brynn and Vander strike enough sparks to start an inferno, but when dangerous players up the stakes, they find themselves with a bounty on their heads. On the run, with only each other to depend on, Brynn discovers she has an even bigger battle on her hands—capturing the heart of a man who thinks he’s too dangerous to ever fall in love.

265 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 5, 2021

1430 people are currently reading
730 people want to read

About the author

Anna Hackett

162 books2,901 followers
I’m a USA Today bestselling romance author who’s passionate about fast-paced, emotion-filled romantic suspense and science-fiction romance. I love writing about people overcoming unbeatable odds and achieving seemingly impossible goals. I like to believe it’s possible for all of us to do the same.

I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com

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5 stars
4,782 (68%)
4 stars
1,702 (24%)
3 stars
439 (6%)
2 stars
70 (<1%)
1 star
19 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
Profile Image for Vashti.
1,233 reviews29 followers
May 2, 2022
I have been wanting to read Vander's story ever since I came across him in the first book I read in this series and boy was it well worth the wait!
Every girl needs a Vander in her life :)
Next up is The Detective!
Profile Image for Deb.
686 reviews
November 10, 2021
5 stars ⭐️

Well Vander’s story was worth the wait. And Brynne was the ideal choice for him, someone strong enough to stand up for herself, but have empathy for an abused soul. Now I can go back and read Rome and Ace’s stories 😂
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,172 reviews70 followers
November 6, 2021
Brynn and Vander definitely brought the heat to balance out the danger in this one. They’re both stubborn, determined, good at what they do, and one isn’t afraid of feelings. Of course, the other one is. And oddly enough, it’s not the way you’d expect it to be. One is trying so hard not to get tangled up or admit to the existence of ANY attraction whatsoever that it’s almost laughable. Add in a new dealer, a truly dangerous substance trying to flood the streets of San Francisco, a biker who may or may not know what’s happening under his nose, and all we need is a well-tossed match to make this tinderbox explode all over.

I really like the unexpected confidence that Brynn displayed, as well as her ability to rescue herself. Sure, Vander and his folks were necessary, but by the time everything all fell apart, Brynn managed to meet everyone halfway with the saving. And I’m a sucker for a strong woman who won’t back down simply because she’s sure help is on the way. So get ready for one heck of a ride here and don’t fault the scaredy cat too much because I promise, it’ll all work out.
Profile Image for Lady Heather .
1,312 reviews772 followers
September 17, 2024
So good!
I love this series!
The bonus epilogue that was offered at the end was wonderful! You can get it thru bookfunnel.
Profile Image for Leah.
697 reviews34 followers
May 9, 2022
I have been looking forward to Vander Norcross’s story since he first graced the pages in The Investigator. He has been a little bit of an enigma in the sense that you never really get a good sense of who he is except for the fact that h is a little dark and broody. He is the owner of Norcross Security and retired from Ghost Ops so he holds a darkness that not many can see past. One of my favorite moments of this book happens when he sets eyes on his heroine Brynn.

“She studied him steadily, meeting his gaze straight on. Vander realized then how few people did that.”

I knew that the woman to bring out the humanity in Vander the only shows his trusted circle was going to have to be a strong force of nature that isn’t willing to back down for anything. And Brynn is that. She has an understanding of Vander from the get-go that I don’t think anyone truly does, even his siblings. I adored the push and pull between these two. Mainly because Vander doesn’t feel as though he is capable of truly being able to give her what she needs in a relationship. But don’t worry, Brynn sets his straight. This is a little bit of a slow burn, but it isn’t without a ton of chemistry and tension between the two. Let me say though, once they cross that line, it is hot and oh so good.

Anna Hackett gives us another great addition to her list of work with the perfect blend of romance, action, and suspense. If you haven’t read this series yet, you do not need to read them in order, but you should because you get little snippets and teases of Vander through the series that gives you a glimpse into who he is before you get under his skin.
Profile Image for Ivy Deluca.
2,377 reviews329 followers
February 21, 2023
Quick(ish) Review

Book specific: I had wanted Vander’s book since I started this series so I was happy to see him get an FMC in Brynn who could literally go toe to toe with him. Are there a couple boneheaded moves in service to plot? Yes, is it funny to have what amounts to a mini vacation while in danger? Also yes. But I still liked it.

Series review: I needed something to distract me from the blizzard that hit my hometown and this was perfect. I devoured the entire thing in the span of a week and a half. It’s a straightforward, romantic suspense series (think Kristen Ashley with less screwball comedy).

Each book goes like this: FMC is in danger, MMC steps in and says “you’re moving in with me until it’s over,” which means she’s never moving out and they’re falling in love, but one or both fight it a little, cue big dramatic moment where they realize life is short, HEA is triggered. The End. With lots o sex while in danger. This isn’t reinventing the wheel and I’m ok with that, though it’s also why I’m not rating this super high because it was predictable even if enjoyable. Also, ngl part of my need to tear through the series was to get to Vander’s book. In the end this whole series deals with certain tried and true - enemies to lovers, surprise pregnancy, even a bit of royal romance, but it’s the found family built and did I mention the sex? Yeah that kept me coming back for more.
Profile Image for Katyana.
1,800 reviews290 followers
December 9, 2021
Yeah, yeah, I jumped ahead to Vander's book. Couldn't help it, I <3 him. And I feel like we didn't see enough of Rome and Ace for me to care much about their books. Plus... bodyguard and a princess ... meh.

But Vander, yum. With a badass alpha female, extra yum. I like that the author didn't give him a soft puddle of a woman, but rather someone who could go toe-to-toe with him. They were great together. With no TSTL or weird constant kidnapping, like was in previous books. I really liked it.
Profile Image for Liz [reads books].
1,314 reviews63 followers
November 17, 2021
4½ stars.
Good book! I loved this heroine because she saw what she wanted and she went after him! The steam and suspense were great, too.
Profile Image for Christina (stinarinareads).
413 reviews380 followers
September 5, 2025
✨✨✨/5
🌶️.25/5

Honestly, for this being Vander’s book, I was a little disappointed by how average this book felt. A little formulaic, a little stilted, and even more surprisingly, a distinct lack of romantic chemistry. It was fine. It was OK. But I don’t think it’s integral to read for the series.

AH knows how to write though, it’s so digestible and flows so nicely. I always, ALWAYS appreciate her setting out to tell a decently quick romance with different cool settings and backgrounds. That’s why she’s a comfort author for me for sure💕
Profile Image for kay reads.
1,295 reviews25 followers
May 12, 2024
4 🌟

This book is my second favourite in the series. I've been waiting for Vander's story since book 1. This was so good.

Protective hero
billionaire hero
Touch her, you die
Badass fmc
Undercover detective heroine
Profile Image for Sherill.
1,296 reviews38 followers
November 18, 2021
DANGER-SUSPENSE-ACTION & PASSIONATE ROMANCE

“The Powerbroker” is a thunderstorm of emotions with action packed heart-pounding suspense, hair-raising danger, and molten-hot passionate romance that leaves you breathless.

Vander Norcross, owner of Norcross Security, protects San Francisco from evil lawbreakers and is known as the Powerbroker. His name puts fear into men and women. His priority is to keep the city safe for all he holds dear. As an ex-Ghost Ops leader, he exudes power, keeps the darkness he’s seen in check and invisible chains surround his heart off to love. 

Brynn Sullivan, a Detective needs Vander’s help to infiltrate an unsafe MC to arrest those who dare to import hazardous drugs into the city. Vander’s blood runs cold at the thought of a risk to her life. Brynn is fearless, can defend herself, and does not yield to the orders of Vander Norcross. Their attraction burns hotter than the fiery sun. Together, they experience multiple life-threatening issues. Will they get a happy forever; or will Vander keep his rigid control and walk away after securing Brynn’s safety?

Memorable read that did not disappoint this reader. Characters spring to life with vivid scene descriptions and quick wit banter. I know many military men that suffer the darkness from war. The author’s description of Vander is spot on and I felt for him. This read is believable on many levels and the romance is genuine. Brynn shows courage and is not afraid of the man behind the darkness. Vander Norcross has a side you do not see until his story. I relished this read, and voluntarily reviewed a pre-release copy. 
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,551 reviews52 followers
November 8, 2021
Vander has been lurking around in the other books. Always the stoic, quietly menacing, always protective eldest Norcross. Just watch him fall in love, right up and over his head, with one sassy, fearless, non-intimidated cop!

Brynn is everything Vander never knew he wanted. He thought that to let someone in meant that if things went wrong he would burn the world to get her back and he didn't want to fall into that darkness. But Brynn...well she's more than happy to kick the world into touch should it ever try and take away the people she loves - these two are going to burn hot and fast. She'll save her dang self, thank you very much! She may even hand Vander the match to light that world on fire!

I had a bit of a sob in my throat with Vander. That man just has the entire world on his shoulders, not just Sn Francisco. He knows he can't save everyone but he will save his little piece of the world. Brynn is his mirror, she knows full well not to get sucked into saving everyone but she will save every one of the souls that she can.

Intense feelings, inflammatory passion. High octane danger with a side order of humour - the Norcross siblings and their friends freely through about the witty repartee at Vander.

Can't wait to see who has Hunt all tied up in knots. And Camden, oh my that man needs a HEA!
Profile Image for niki_reads_romance.
883 reviews9 followers
November 9, 2021
READ. THIS. STORY.

Oh MAN. Vander Norcross is INTENSE. I’ve been so intrigued by him, from the very beginning.

One of the most amazing things about this author is that she can make my FEEL through her words. I FEEL the tension, the danger emanating from Vander, the strength of Brynn’s character. Anna Hackett has this…skill… with words that makes the reader feel present in the scenes of her stories.

Vander and Brynn light a fire on the pages of this book, from the very beginning. Their chemistry wafts from the pages until it’s practically tangible. Their banter is humorous and sexy, interesting and intense. Their story is seriously fast paced and exciting, and I struggled to slow down… and I did not succeed. I inhaled their story and don’t regret one moment of it.
Profile Image for Ryan Mackay.
414 reviews
February 24, 2022
I've made no secret that I have found Hackett's latest books to be utterly disappointing. I have little interest in reading about rich men (literally that's their only personality trait, feel free to check out my thoughts on her Billionaire Bachelor series because ugh couldn't even bring myself to read the last one) falling in love with women who should be so much cooler than they are written. I used to look forward to Hackett's books (literally loved them all), but I'm struggling with her newfound focus on modern day, conventional stories. That being said, I did enjoy this book a bit more than the others in the series. Brynn is slightly more capable than we've seen from the other heroines (and I'm sorry but I have less than zero interest in reading a princess/bodyguard romance and somehow even less in a forced relationship due to pregnancy romance) so I appreciated that. I don't mean to say that you can't have a fun, badass, capable woman who isn't a (cop/spy/agent/thief) but I do feel like those are the women that Hackett actually writes fun stories for. Example and slight spoiler for the first book in this series. Haven literally gets kidnapped like fourteen times and is completely a victim every single time, it's ridiculous.

Hopefully this book is at least a slight return to form for Hackett, since Bryn at least starts to rescue herself.

Reread this and...
I take back any niceness. This book was ridiculous. Such flat characters. Brynn is literally just a daddy's girl who's a cop and only a cop... and who chases after Vander after he says no multiple times which just isn't it. She even has a blue line tattoo which feels yucky.
Vander is literally so dumb. "oh I can't fall in love cuz I'm sooooooo dangerous"

changed rating to 2 stars
40 reviews1 follower
March 2, 2022
I’ve been looking forward to read Vander’s book ever since the first book of this series. I’m really disappointed about Brynn’s character. Throughout the series Vander is consistent about his stands on love so I expected that he will resist it. I just thought that the heroine would be someone as stubborn as Vander and special that it would be difficult for him to resist her. But Brynn keeps on chasing him and he keeps on saying no. So what’s the difference between her and the other girls? I thought she would be the kind of heroine who knows her worth.
Profile Image for Spinneretta.
2,850 reviews20 followers
November 10, 2021
Good

When Vander Norcross is asked by his friend Detective Hunt, to introduce an undercover detective to a local biker club, Vander doesn’t know that he is in for the ride of his life!
Brynn is bold and beautiful, and doesn’t take gruff from anyone. She is determined to get the bad guys off the street, and it means Vander will have to break out all his skills to keep her safe.

Vander Norcross. Those of us who have been following the Norcross series since book one, have just been waiting for Vander to fall… and Detective Brynn Sullivan was worth the wait.
It was fairly obvious from the get-go, that Vander would need a very strong woman as a love interest, else his lady would end up being totally smothered by his protectiveness.
Brynn is quite easily the most confident, and yes somewhat cocky heroine I’ve read in a long time, but Anna Hackett made it work! As a detective in a family of detectives (she’s actually the cousin of series favourite Detective Hunt), she’s determined to both make a name for herself, and to seek justice. Yes, she is idealistic, but it’s tempered by experience and the wisdom that comes with it.
Her confidence is also the one thing that draws Vander in; one, because he thinks it’s sexy, and two, because he knows she is going to need backup when something doesn’t go right.

Brynn surprised me by being both exceptionally perceptive, and realizing that there were concessions she needed to make for Vander’s own peace of mind that wouldn’t have to compromise her principles.
It was an absolute pleasure to read a female lead with common sense. Brynn was strong, but not over the top, and when she chose to make risky decisions, she did so because it was her job and she made sure she also had backup. She never went running in where angels fear to tread, but carefully made sure that she was covered. Not that everything always went to plan…

Vander also lived up to his hype, by being a little extra about everything. He got to showcase some of his special skills, and we got to see him being a little vulnerable.

All in all, this was well worth the wait and definitely lived up to my expectations.

It’s not entirely necessary to read the other books in the series first, but I do recommend it if only to introduce the characters, and so you can see Vander from some other viewpoints! He can be very intimidating to everyone else!
A fantastic Romantic Suspense/Action Romance that fans of the series will love, and newcomers will enjoy.
Profile Image for Kim (Chipperbooks) .
1,292 reviews25 followers
September 5, 2024
The Powerbroker- Vander and Brynn

So good! Not too long, twists, thrills, entertaining!

Vander Norcross. The Ghost! The one feared by all. Well, everyone with the last Norcross is feared. New drugs are appearing throughout the city and Vander isn’t having it. He works with his brothers, by blood and in arms, and they protect the town, under the radar so to speak.

Brynn, a detective, has been trying to tract down the new dealer in town. When things go a bit crazy, the NS Team is there. One particular member gets under her skin. The broody, alpha, hard, gorgeous…Vander. There is an instant attraction there, but Vander wants nothing to do with it. But Brynn can be very persuasive.

Love these stories. Each one keeps you entertained and engaged from beginning to end. Definitely recommend this and the series!
Profile Image for Jenni.
6,381 reviews78 followers
April 30, 2025
The Powerbroker is the sixth book in the Norcross Security series and what a series it is. The boss finally meets his match. Sexy alpha men and women who protect what is theirs but don't think they deserve love. Finding that one person who brings them to their knees whilst fighting to protect them. There is action, power, angst, chemistry, intensity, suspense, mystery and so much more.
Anna Hackett should be someone on your TBR pile because she is good at what she does.
1,228 reviews14 followers
November 13, 2021
Sorry. really not as good as the other books.

I’m really disappointed as I’ve been waiting for this book for ages. Vander was so dark and sexy in all of the other books. The plot just wasn’t great.

Bryn is a detective who is going to work undercover at a biker gang, who are selling drugs. Vander is asked by Hunt (Hunt is Bryn’s cousin) to introduce them. Bryn isn’t a wilting wallflower and works hard to stop the drugs from hitting the street. Vander is wildly attracted to her but won’t act on it, as he’s scared of becoming attached to her. That is the problem with this book. He’s afraid. All his brothers and best friend Saxon have gone through things in their lives, and they embrace the love of their lives. Not Vander. He does everything he can to avoid being with her. Until he can’t avoid her anymore. When they both have threats made against them, they have to hide out in his place in the country.

When the danger materialises, it’s done and over really fast. I won’t spoil it but there’s a part in the book where I went, what? That wouldn’t take happen!! It just didn’t make sense!

The sex scenes are ok. Not as hot as the previous books. Overall worth reading but I didn’t love it. And I’m not sure I’ll read it again. And I’ve read the other books several times and loved them. (Yes I know!)

Profile Image for Cc.
2,087 reviews1 follower
November 13, 2021
Brynn and Vander

She’s a Police Detective he is former Ghost Opps that now runs a Security Company. Vander is ask to give undercover Brynn an introduction to the local biker club. She’s looking for who in the club is responsible for Stardust, a new drug that is killing young party goers.

Vander thinks her having anything to do with the club is dangerous. He immediately takes a protective position over Brynn letting everyone know she’s his woman. Brynn isn’t happy about Vander getting involved but she doesn’t make a scene fearing it would ruin her undercover position.

Of course things do get worse but Brynn never waits to be rescued. When Vander shows up she’s already freed herself.

This was a good story but I was disappointed in the Brynn/Vander arc. Brynn was perfect for him on paper but the chemistry between them didn’t grow. They met and each of them were ready to tear their clothes off. Vander has been hyped through all the previous Norcross books , I guess I expected his love story to be way more than the others. It felt like less to me.

Profile Image for Lissanne Jones.
Author 10 books179 followers
November 9, 2021
This book just proves why Anna Hackett is one of my favourite romance authors. I devour every single book eagerly and The Powerbroker was no exception. Vander Norcross is one of my absolutely favourite heroes, and watching him fall hard for Detective Brynn Sullivan was delicious. The perfect blend of suspense and romance with plenty of steam, this is everything a romance book should be - great characters, great storytelling, and a love that will melt your heart. My favourite read of this year.
Profile Image for Precious.
345 reviews11 followers
March 31, 2022
You know me and how I live to insert myself in the middle of a series 😅… yeah I felt left out just a little because I didn’t read the other books and there was all this talk of the other couples and I didn’t realize just how actiony this book was.

I was here for the romance 🧍🏽‍♀️
Profile Image for Kelly.
5,661 reviews227 followers
November 17, 2021
Hoo-boy! It's Vander's turn to find his special someone and he fights it HARD. The lethal, super controlled Norcross brother isn't used to anyone going toe to toe with him like Brynn does and it wrecks him in the best possible way.

As for Brynn, she's heard of Vander Norcross (who hasn't, amirite?!?!) and she's not going to let him derail her chance to stop a deadly, dangerous drug from flooding the streets of San Francisco. That means standing up to the big guy and showing him she's able to take care of herself. Which, frankly, flips Vander's interest switch in a BIG way.

A dangerous situation has the two of them on the run and the more time they spend together, the more they get to know the other, the more they collectively like what they see. Seeing as how they're both fierce, strong-willed protectors, is it any surprise they ended up being a perfect match?

A little danger, a recon mission or two, more than a few steamy kisses, and a whole lot of sparks. I've been waiting to see what type of woman could capture the heart and mind of the most intense of the Norcross brothers and Brynn did not disappoint. *thumbs up*

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Profile Image for Jenny.
2,307 reviews73 followers
November 23, 2025

The Powerbroker is book 6 in the Norcross Security series by Anna Hackett. Police Detective Brynn Sullivan investigates a problem within a local motorcycle club and must go undercover. Police Detective Brynn Sullivan needed an introduction to the group and to Vander Norcross, owner of Norcross Security. At first, Vander was not happy. However, Brynn Sullivan convinced him to change his mind. Will Vander Norcross finally meet his match? Readers of The Powerbroker will continue to follow Police Detective Brynn Sullivan and Vander Norcross as they discover what happens.

I love Anna Hackett's character, Vander Norcross. He is a man whom I would love to put his shoes under my bed. Brynn is the right woman for Vander. I engaged with this book from the first page and had trouble putting it down until the last page. Readers of The Powerbroker will start to understand that not all motorcycle clubs are bad.

I love Anna Hackett's portrayal of her characters and the way they interact throughout this book. The Powerbroker, by Anna Hackett, is well written and well researched. I like Anna Hackett's descriptions of the settings in The Powerbroker, which helped me imagine being part of the book's plot.

I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Melanie Marnell.
4,216 reviews34 followers
January 3, 2023
I wanted to read Vander Norcross's story from the first moment he appeared in The Investigator. I was captivated by the strong brooding character that Anna Hackett created. I was sorely tempted to skip the books previous to his but I resisted temptation. The Powerbroker not only met but exceeded every expectation. I adored this book! What a ride! Vander is not a man to be trifled with but Brynn Sullivan messes with his mind, his contol and his resolve. Her new undercover assignment is fraught with peril and Vander is not happy that she's hellbent on handling it on her own. This woman has done what no other ever has. She grabbed his attention, held on to it and made him care. He's definitely in uncharted territory. He's met his match in Brynn. Taking down a drug dealer whose product is causing multiple deaths isn't an easy task especially since the guilty party is a member of an MC gang. Brynn and Vander plus the SFPD and Norcross Security have their hands full. Fortunately they prevail but it's touch and go for a little while.
Profile Image for ♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎.
887 reviews56 followers
March 7, 2022
Hero - Vander

Heroine - Brynn

5 Undercover Stars

Overall Opinion

The Powerbroker By Anna Hackett

Holy f****** Dammmnnnn!!!! Vander Norcross😍
Bry is a detective with SFPD, cousin to Hunt and is going undercover in a MC, to bring down a supply of drugs that is killing a whole lot of people.

Vander Norcross, former leader of Ghost ops and is now the owner of Norcross Security, he is the guy in the shadows and the guy no one wants to mess with.

Vander finds himself helping Hunt out by getting the detective an in with the MC, and then he wants nothing to do with the op. Well that goes sideways as soon as he meets Bry and the final Norcross finds himself falling and man does he fall😍

A new group thinking they can take over San Francisco, a bounty out on Vander and Bry, and a kickass h, who knows what she wants, and a protective, possessive, loyal and loving H, made this an absolute page turner ❤️

Secondary Characters
The whole Norcross Security team and Hunter(read his book first 🙈)

Ratings

Hero 🔫🏍️🔫🏍️🔫

Heroine 🔫🏍️🔫🏍️🔫

Chemistry 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Plot 📚📚📚📚📚

Emotional Level 💧💧
400 reviews3 followers
November 13, 2021
Anna Hackett has been one of my top 10 must read authors for a while now and her books never disappoint. I know that I (and all of Ms. Hackett's readers) have been waiting for Vander's story. Well this is it and all I can say is WOW! Ms. Hackett know how to grab onto her readers from the 1st page to the last with her fantastic story telling and world building. Her characters are delightfully flawed and you can't help cheer for their happily ever after. Vander and Brynn's story is one of fighting (to the last) your feeling that you have found your soul mate when you never felt that you deserved one, but you better half refuses to let you give up. I am so glad that this series will continue and you will definitely be sorry if you miss this one. I volunteered to review an advanced readers copy of this book.
1,780 reviews2 followers
November 13, 2021
Great!

I chose this rating because this was actually really great book. I really enjoyed most of the characters. This was a book of protection, compassion, knowing your job , knowing when to fall back and falling in love. I really enjoy it Vander and Brynn story. I think the author did a great job in writing this story of those two characters. The book was well written. The story had a lot of action and drama. I really enjoyed it. Great read! I recommend this book to all romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews

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