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Redemption #1
The Redemption of Roman
He walked into my life when I wasn’t expecting him.
Tall, dark, handsome, and everything I didn’t know I wanted. He made me feel so many things, so deeply, so quickly.
That was okay, because I was happy.
We were happy.
Until we weren’t.
He took everything I thought we were and shattered it. I don’t even recognize the man I call my husband anymore.
My mom used to say that every good comes from evil and evil comes from good. It took me a long time to understand the truth of that testimony but I understand it now.
Roman was my hell and I was his redemption, but as with everything there are two sides to every story.
This is ours.
Are you ready?
The Redemption of Roman is a full length standalone mafia mm novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. It’s recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations . Please read trigger warnings before proceeding .
Tall, dark, handsome, and everything I didn’t know I wanted. He made me feel so many things, so deeply, so quickly.
That was okay, because I was happy.
We were happy.
Until we weren’t.
He took everything I thought we were and shattered it. I don’t even recognize the man I call my husband anymore.
My mom used to say that every good comes from evil and evil comes from good. It took me a long time to understand the truth of that testimony but I understand it now.
Roman was my hell and I was his redemption, but as with everything there are two sides to every story.
This is ours.
Are you ready?
The Redemption of Roman is a full length standalone mafia mm novel with material that may be difficult for some readers. It’s recommended for 18+ due to language and sexual situations . Please read trigger warnings before proceeding .
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2022
96 people are currently reading
743 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
May 4, 2022
For a debut novel, I have to say...bravo!!! It was very enjoyable. I loved the characters. I loved hating Roman...lol I loved the fuckedupness and toxicity. I loved the new voice of this author.
It's not your typical romance. Some die-hard romance readers will say this is not a romance and will probably dnf. Hey, you can't love them all.
As much as I enjoyed the book, I couldn't give it a 5-star rating because of one of my biggest pet peeves...the underuse of CONTRACTIONS!! It's such a simple fix to make the writing flow instead giving it that stilted quality. I'm seriously at a loss as to why this is such an issue with some writes.
The other issue I had was the overuse of certain words: squeal, squeak, smirk, pout(ing) and cannot (easily replaced with can't).
Lastly, the ending was a bit anticlimactic. The HEA didn't feel hard won. It felt like after the emotional rollercoaster, the author lost steam and just wanted to give the happy ending.
3.5 round up to 4 because, I'm so sick of the same ole same ole reads and this was DIFFERENT!
It's not your typical romance. Some die-hard romance readers will say this is not a romance and will probably dnf. Hey, you can't love them all.
As much as I enjoyed the book, I couldn't give it a 5-star rating because of one of my biggest pet peeves...the underuse of CONTRACTIONS!! It's such a simple fix to make the writing flow instead giving it that stilted quality. I'm seriously at a loss as to why this is such an issue with some writes.
The other issue I had was the overuse of certain words: squeal, squeak, smirk, pout(ing) and cannot (easily replaced with can't).
Lastly, the ending was a bit anticlimactic. The HEA didn't feel hard won. It felt like after the emotional rollercoaster, the author lost steam and just wanted to give the happy ending.
3.5 round up to 4 because, I'm so sick of the same ole same ole reads and this was DIFFERENT!
dnf
December 31, 2024
DNF @ 29%
Okay, so, I love this author, and will continue to read her future books. This was starting out as a read much like the other one I read by this author.
But I'm glad to say that I read that other book before this one, because the material in this might have made me not read more from this lovely author.
The thing is...a section of this book is called "Red Flags", and there is a TW for Domestic Abuse. It was a little shocking but I was like "maybe the Domestic Abuse if for a past relationship or other relationship in this?" And continued on hopefully.
But as things started around 29%, as Roman acted...WILD, and not in any good way, I got more and more worried, and so skimmed ahead.
So, no, ***SPOILER WARNING***, the Domestic Abuse is not from a past relationship or other relationship.
It's from Roman towards Alex. And we're talking ongoing, for months, physical, emotional, mental abuse. He locks Alex up so he won't leave him for months. He physically beats Alex for months.
I skimmed even more toward the end, and Roman tries to get better and there is time these two spend apart, etc etc, but these two...still end up together.
Now I get that Roman has grown up in the Mafia, that he was horribly abused himself, that he doesn't know or understand anything else.
I get that, all of it.
But it's just...too much for me. I guess this is where I personally draw a line. If he captured before he knew him, hurt him before knew him, as I've read in other mafia type stories, that'd be fine for me. If they were both equally dark and nasty and toxic to each other, that'd be fine for me. Hell, if it was even an accidental slap or one time and than Roman realizes he can't act that way with this sweet, innocent guy, I'd be fine with it.
But we go into full on domestic abuse territory. Just Roman constantly physically hurting Alex, locking him up to keep him from leaving, all this stuff.
Now the story mentions something happening with some other Mafia guy that sets Roman off like this, into being physically abusive, abusive all around.
But...no matter where Roman is coming from, no matter that something might have happened to put him in such a dark place, and he eventually gets out of it and works on himself so he won't physically abuse his husband, I just...can't.
I don't think I can take it. Call me someone who has unrealistic expectations, or it's unrealistic, what have you, but....Alex didn't sign on for this, he had no idea what he was getting into, Roman pushes him into moving in with him, then marrying him from what I skimmed, and then it gets revealed to him, after he's already married to Roman, what he really does.
If Alex went into it with eyes wide open, if he gave as good as he got, if Roman didn't abuse him, if, if, if...I'd continue with this.
I like my dark romance as much as the next person, and even violence between MC's is something I can deal with normally (hello, Call the Coroner by Avril Ashton...Daniel literally tortures Stavros for weeks...but the difference is, Stavros is just as psychopathic and even smiles through the torture), and one of the MC's being what would be a really bad person in real life.
I can deal with all that...but I can't deal with them abusing their spouse, who is an innocent in it all, who didn't know what they were getting themselves into, who doesn't want to be a part of that life, who just thought he met a great man and fell in love with a normal man, etc etc.
It's just too much for me, and I can't continue.
And I can't see someone who abuses the one they love changing, no matter what. Abusers don't change, I think. If Roman was willing to do it before, is he really able to stop later, no matter how much therapy he has or time goes by? Idk.
It just doesn't sit right for me. I can't root for a couple when one of them is abusing the other. Usually if there is domestic abuse in romance novels, it's from an ex or something, and the other MC is the one who doesn't hurt them like that.
I can take a lot of things, even things like in this author's other work which I ADORED, where one MC was involved in a bet to get the other MC to fall for him, but domestic abuse just...gah. Too much.
So I have to DNF this for that reason alone.
But I will read this author in the future....as long as there's no other domestic abuse in the love stories.
Okay, so, I love this author, and will continue to read her future books. This was starting out as a read much like the other one I read by this author.
But I'm glad to say that I read that other book before this one, because the material in this might have made me not read more from this lovely author.
The thing is...a section of this book is called "Red Flags", and there is a TW for Domestic Abuse. It was a little shocking but I was like "maybe the Domestic Abuse if for a past relationship or other relationship in this?" And continued on hopefully.
But as things started around 29%, as Roman acted...WILD, and not in any good way, I got more and more worried, and so skimmed ahead.
So, no, ***SPOILER WARNING***, the Domestic Abuse is not from a past relationship or other relationship.
It's from Roman towards Alex. And we're talking ongoing, for months, physical, emotional, mental abuse. He locks Alex up so he won't leave him for months. He physically beats Alex for months.
I skimmed even more toward the end, and Roman tries to get better and there is time these two spend apart, etc etc, but these two...still end up together.
Now I get that Roman has grown up in the Mafia, that he was horribly abused himself, that he doesn't know or understand anything else.
I get that, all of it.
But it's just...too much for me. I guess this is where I personally draw a line. If he captured before he knew him, hurt him before knew him, as I've read in other mafia type stories, that'd be fine for me. If they were both equally dark and nasty and toxic to each other, that'd be fine for me. Hell, if it was even an accidental slap or one time and than Roman realizes he can't act that way with this sweet, innocent guy, I'd be fine with it.
But we go into full on domestic abuse territory. Just Roman constantly physically hurting Alex, locking him up to keep him from leaving, all this stuff.
Now the story mentions something happening with some other Mafia guy that sets Roman off like this, into being physically abusive, abusive all around.
But...no matter where Roman is coming from, no matter that something might have happened to put him in such a dark place, and he eventually gets out of it and works on himself so he won't physically abuse his husband, I just...can't.
I don't think I can take it. Call me someone who has unrealistic expectations, or it's unrealistic, what have you, but....Alex didn't sign on for this, he had no idea what he was getting into, Roman pushes him into moving in with him, then marrying him from what I skimmed, and then it gets revealed to him, after he's already married to Roman, what he really does.
If Alex went into it with eyes wide open, if he gave as good as he got, if Roman didn't abuse him, if, if, if...I'd continue with this.
I like my dark romance as much as the next person, and even violence between MC's is something I can deal with normally (hello, Call the Coroner by Avril Ashton...Daniel literally tortures Stavros for weeks...but the difference is, Stavros is just as psychopathic and even smiles through the torture), and one of the MC's being what would be a really bad person in real life.
I can deal with all that...but I can't deal with them abusing their spouse, who is an innocent in it all, who didn't know what they were getting themselves into, who doesn't want to be a part of that life, who just thought he met a great man and fell in love with a normal man, etc etc.
It's just too much for me, and I can't continue.
And I can't see someone who abuses the one they love changing, no matter what. Abusers don't change, I think. If Roman was willing to do it before, is he really able to stop later, no matter how much therapy he has or time goes by? Idk.
It just doesn't sit right for me. I can't root for a couple when one of them is abusing the other. Usually if there is domestic abuse in romance novels, it's from an ex or something, and the other MC is the one who doesn't hurt them like that.
I can take a lot of things, even things like in this author's other work which I ADORED, where one MC was involved in a bet to get the other MC to fall for him, but domestic abuse just...gah. Too much.
So I have to DNF this for that reason alone.
But I will read this author in the future....as long as there's no other domestic abuse in the love stories.
January 21, 2024
no. hell no. fuck no. every type of no imaginable.
October 26, 2022
Mafia stories with main characters that aren’t good guys and who have to redeem themselves throughout the book are my absolute favourites, and I really enjoyed how this one was done. This was such a wonderful take on this type of stories and I really enjoyed it.
A lot of this book is about Roman and Alex who got together and it all seemed perfect but then Roman does things that aren’t good at all and Alex rightfully fears him and he doesn’t really want to be with him anymore. So a lot of this book is Alex who has to redeem himself and show that he can do better. And I cannot tell you how much I adored that. That was so fascinating for me to read and I loved it so much. I really enjoy these kind of takes on tropes and I adored how it was done in this book. It was so enjoyable to read and it really worked for me.
I really loved this book’s ending and I was a big fan of it but I just wish that it was more drawn out because it felt a little fast to me. I would have loved it to be a couple of chapters longer because thats like the one thing that this book was missing for me.
**I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.**
A lot of this book is about Roman and Alex who got together and it all seemed perfect but then Roman does things that aren’t good at all and Alex rightfully fears him and he doesn’t really want to be with him anymore. So a lot of this book is Alex who has to redeem himself and show that he can do better. And I cannot tell you how much I adored that. That was so fascinating for me to read and I loved it so much. I really enjoy these kind of takes on tropes and I adored how it was done in this book. It was so enjoyable to read and it really worked for me.
I really loved this book’s ending and I was a big fan of it but I just wish that it was more drawn out because it felt a little fast to me. I would have loved it to be a couple of chapters longer because thats like the one thing that this book was missing for me.
**I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.**
April 26, 2022
Okay first off let me say:
How is this your debut?!? It was hands down amazing!
The drama, the chemistry, the spice. Whew the spice. But also the relationship dynamic. I am truly blown away!
I laughed, I cried. No I didn't cry, I bawled like a baby. And did I mention the steam!
Cold shower alert. Alex and Roman are hot, hot, hot!
But that's not all their story is about it's truly about redemption and man does Roman have to work for it.
Hands down incredible story!
I can not wait to see what else comes from this up and coming best selling author!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
How is this your debut?!? It was hands down amazing!
The drama, the chemistry, the spice. Whew the spice. But also the relationship dynamic. I am truly blown away!
I laughed, I cried. No I didn't cry, I bawled like a baby. And did I mention the steam!
Cold shower alert. Alex and Roman are hot, hot, hot!
But that's not all their story is about it's truly about redemption and man does Roman have to work for it.
Hands down incredible story!
I can not wait to see what else comes from this up and coming best selling author!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
April 25, 2022
Please take careful note of the trigger warnings!
This is a dark mafia romance and I for one absolutely loved that this book delivered on the DARK. I loved that Roman was everything you would expect a mafia boss to be. Unlike so many others that I've read, a mafia boss doesn't rule with an iron fist and suddenly becomes a complete marshmallow when it comes to their lovers.
Caught in a whirlwind romance, the sweet, gorgeous and love-starved Alex has no idea who the man he married actually is, right until tragedy strikes. The fact that you end up wanting for Alex to get away from Roman, (and you wanting to smack the life out of Roman) shows exactly how well-written Roman's character was.
My only slight quibble was that the pacing of the book slowed down considerably after Alex did get away and I found myself waiting too long for some of the intensity to return.
What I appreciate about Roman's redemption, was how it was not just a sudden realization of how much he hurt Alex and how much he loves Alex, it was the fact that he eventually recognized and understood that he had a problem and he sought help. He took the time he needed to become the person that Alex deserved.
For me this was a really realistic depiction of how a mafia boss believes he ought to rule and that was what I thoroughly enjoyed. Alex and Roman were smoking hot together and their chemistry undeniable... 💙💙
Awesome debut, I will most certainly be looking forward to more MM from this author... 😘😘
This is a dark mafia romance and I for one absolutely loved that this book delivered on the DARK. I loved that Roman was everything you would expect a mafia boss to be. Unlike so many others that I've read, a mafia boss doesn't rule with an iron fist and suddenly becomes a complete marshmallow when it comes to their lovers.
Caught in a whirlwind romance, the sweet, gorgeous and love-starved Alex has no idea who the man he married actually is, right until tragedy strikes. The fact that you end up wanting for Alex to get away from Roman, (and you wanting to smack the life out of Roman) shows exactly how well-written Roman's character was.
My only slight quibble was that the pacing of the book slowed down considerably after Alex did get away and I found myself waiting too long for some of the intensity to return.
What I appreciate about Roman's redemption, was how it was not just a sudden realization of how much he hurt Alex and how much he loves Alex, it was the fact that he eventually recognized and understood that he had a problem and he sought help. He took the time he needed to become the person that Alex deserved.
For me this was a really realistic depiction of how a mafia boss believes he ought to rule and that was what I thoroughly enjoyed. Alex and Roman were smoking hot together and their chemistry undeniable... 💙💙
Awesome debut, I will most certainly be looking forward to more MM from this author... 😘😘
Read
May 17, 2022DNF ..
December 17, 2023
the idea behind this book was brilliant. for a mafia romance, the story gave me new and fresh elements. however, the way it was written was definitely lackluster. for one, there were a lot of jumpy moments. one scene pertains how the character acts then the next scene, he was a complete different person. i needed little bit of a slowburn, more build up. you can't just throw the "i went to therapy" card right up in my face without actually showing it. overall, was an ok read but just needs more.
April 19, 2022
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review. *
It is too often that the people we love turn into the monsters we fear. This is that story. Alex fell in love with the man. It wasn't until much later that he learned there was a monster lurking under the surface that would eventually take over. And when that happens there is only one thing left for Alex to do.... RUN!!
You would never guess that this is T. Ashleigh's first novel. The themes at play here while dark are not out of the realm of possibility or unbelievable. I was enamored with this story from start to finish.
Alex's only goal is to finish college and find someone to take home for the night. One night with the incredible Roman is all he is guaranteed so he does what anyone would do and leaves the rest up to fate. Apparently, fate was on Alex's side because within a weeks' time Roman and him have found one another again and their happily ever is just getting started. Or is it?
Bad men aren't always born sometimes they are made and Roman was made. He was made into exactly who his father expected him to be, a monster. It wasn't until meeting Alex that the things he never worried about fearing are the exact things he is fears are to come. Protecting Alex is the only option but where is the line that crosses from protection to obsession?
People the emotions!! Oh, my gods, the emotions this book elicited from me were insane. I can't remember a time when a character has made me so livid! For me I felt everything Alex went through because I was so attached but on the other side, I also felt Roman's emotions. Even when I wanted to slap him stupid there were still many times when I thought all he needed was good hug. Right Jess, go hug a mobster.
T. Ashleigh created not only a story about the lengths one would go to for love, but she also showed the ugly side of love we sometimes don't get to see. Alex & Roman's story was far from perfect, but it was raw and beautiful and honestly that was exactly what I look for in a mafia romance.
It is too often that the people we love turn into the monsters we fear. This is that story. Alex fell in love with the man. It wasn't until much later that he learned there was a monster lurking under the surface that would eventually take over. And when that happens there is only one thing left for Alex to do.... RUN!!
You would never guess that this is T. Ashleigh's first novel. The themes at play here while dark are not out of the realm of possibility or unbelievable. I was enamored with this story from start to finish.
Alex's only goal is to finish college and find someone to take home for the night. One night with the incredible Roman is all he is guaranteed so he does what anyone would do and leaves the rest up to fate. Apparently, fate was on Alex's side because within a weeks' time Roman and him have found one another again and their happily ever is just getting started. Or is it?
Bad men aren't always born sometimes they are made and Roman was made. He was made into exactly who his father expected him to be, a monster. It wasn't until meeting Alex that the things he never worried about fearing are the exact things he is fears are to come. Protecting Alex is the only option but where is the line that crosses from protection to obsession?
People the emotions!! Oh, my gods, the emotions this book elicited from me were insane. I can't remember a time when a character has made me so livid! For me I felt everything Alex went through because I was so attached but on the other side, I also felt Roman's emotions. Even when I wanted to slap him stupid there were still many times when I thought all he needed was good hug. Right Jess, go hug a mobster.
T. Ashleigh created not only a story about the lengths one would go to for love, but she also showed the ugly side of love we sometimes don't get to see. Alex & Roman's story was far from perfect, but it was raw and beautiful and honestly that was exactly what I look for in a mafia romance.
March 13, 2022
What happens when the person that you love lies to you? Love isn’t supposed to hurt right ?
Roman and Alex seemed fated in the stars. A hot connection at a club, an incredible night, and then they reconnect against the odds since it was supposed to be a one night stand.
But things aren’t what they seem. Roman…isn’t what he seems. But its too late now, Alex has been claimed and the obsession has begun. The question is how far will it go, and how long can Roman keep his secrets?
I loved this MM book. The sex is hot, the obsession grows, and the redemption is real. I can’t wait to see what more T. Ashleigh has in store for us. Happy debut! It’s freaking amazing.
Roman and Alex seemed fated in the stars. A hot connection at a club, an incredible night, and then they reconnect against the odds since it was supposed to be a one night stand.
But things aren’t what they seem. Roman…isn’t what he seems. But its too late now, Alex has been claimed and the obsession has begun. The question is how far will it go, and how long can Roman keep his secrets?
I loved this MM book. The sex is hot, the obsession grows, and the redemption is real. I can’t wait to see what more T. Ashleigh has in store for us. Happy debut! It’s freaking amazing.
May 23, 2022
The Redemption of Roman scratched an inch, a humongous itch, that I had for the antagonist/anti-hero to be a true bad guy and I got that with Roman. FINALLY.
It's been disappointing to me, since I've been reading the mm genre, where the story is being promoted as having characters with "ambiguous morals" or is the "bad boy" but the immoral character turns out to be actually sweet and in actuality a good guy, basically just the front for other motives to get the true bad guy.
In this story, Roman is truly the immoral guy, the true anti-hero. I loved him! Roman was just absolutely delectable. His hunger and his possessiveness and his manipulation was just absolutely perfect. The author, T. Ashleigh, made his character not just deep and multi-, dimensional but realistic.
And the realism doesn't just stop with Roman. There are other characters as well including Alex, Lacey, Sawyer, etc.
Speaking of Alex! While Roman is the delectable anti-hero, Alex is the lovable sweet, naive but strong protagonist. I just love them together. Alex and Roman have been added to my all-time favorite couples list. I just can't get enough of them. When I finished the last page, I had to go back and reread some of my favorite scenes. I usually don't do that.
The characterizations were on target and likable as well as the plot and narrative arc. The story kept me engrossed totally engrossed that I was late to class. I'm never late to anything.
The story gave me all the feels all the emotions. I was ecstatic that Alex and Roman. Then my stomach was clenched up during their relationship. Then I was crying for Alex while I was angry with Roman. The Roman/Alex roller coaster ride was a better thriller than the actual ride.
I want more of Alex and Roman. I just can't believe It's done. I'm definitely going to read more from this author. They are now a one-click author for me!
It's been disappointing to me, since I've been reading the mm genre, where the story is being promoted as having characters with "ambiguous morals" or is the "bad boy" but the immoral character turns out to be actually sweet and in actuality a good guy, basically just the front for other motives to get the true bad guy.
In this story, Roman is truly the immoral guy, the true anti-hero. I loved him! Roman was just absolutely delectable. His hunger and his possessiveness and his manipulation was just absolutely perfect. The author, T. Ashleigh, made his character not just deep and multi-, dimensional but realistic.
And the realism doesn't just stop with Roman. There are other characters as well including Alex, Lacey, Sawyer, etc.
Speaking of Alex! While Roman is the delectable anti-hero, Alex is the lovable sweet, naive but strong protagonist. I just love them together. Alex and Roman have been added to my all-time favorite couples list. I just can't get enough of them. When I finished the last page, I had to go back and reread some of my favorite scenes. I usually don't do that.
The characterizations were on target and likable as well as the plot and narrative arc. The story kept me engrossed totally engrossed that I was late to class. I'm never late to anything.
The story gave me all the feels all the emotions. I was ecstatic that Alex and Roman. Then my stomach was clenched up during their relationship. Then I was crying for Alex while I was angry with Roman. The Roman/Alex roller coaster ride was a better thriller than the actual ride.
I want more of Alex and Roman. I just can't believe It's done. I'm definitely going to read more from this author. They are now a one-click author for me!
Read
May 23, 2022DNF al 40%
Vaya chorrada de historia y vaya par de personajes más inverosímiles...!!
Predecible, aburrido y poco creíble.
Y me desagrada pensar hacia dónde se encamina la historia.
Paso de perder el tiempo pues no tiene ninguna pinta de esto vaya a mejorar.
Vaya chorrada de historia y vaya par de personajes más inverosímiles...!!
Predecible, aburrido y poco creíble.
Y me desagrada pensar hacia dónde se encamina la historia.
Paso de perder el tiempo pues no tiene ninguna pinta de esto vaya a mejorar.
May 3, 2022
Wow!! Really really loved this story!!!! Roman's character was truly hard-core mobster! The real deal. The author did an amazing job keeping him true to character. I love that she didn't play it safe and soften his character like so many other authors do. Alex was a perfect match for him. This book is definitely a favorite.
So why the 3 stars? Or rather 3.5 stars rounded down? The writing style was a bit stiff. And the ending was anticlimactic. I wanted more groveling scenes.
I can't wait to see what this author writes next. I hope it's more books like this one. 😍😍😍
So why the 3 stars? Or rather 3.5 stars rounded down? The writing style was a bit stiff. And the ending was anticlimactic. I wanted more groveling scenes.
I can't wait to see what this author writes next. I hope it's more books like this one. 😍😍😍
April 14, 2022
1- I now need therapy and a cigarette and I don't even smoke.
2- What a emotional sexy ass rollercoaster of a ride this story was.
3- If you are looking for something to get you out of that reading slump, or just love yourself some characters who fall hard and love harder, and you hopefully aren't afraid of catching the feels, definitely check out this book!
4- THE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST WAS PERFECT AND SENT IT TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL!
This was an ARC read for me, and I would have never guessed that this is only the start of Author T. Ashleigh's journey. I am so very excited for more works to come from her! I have read books from authors who are well established and definitely not at their first rodeo and the books be full of plot holes. But Brava ma'am. Brava!
To start, Roman and Alex are a tragically beautiful romance. It is a dark MM Mafia romance. Beware of certain triggers when considering this novel. But honestly its all a part of the plot. There were times when I wanted to cry, and scream, and maybe knock some heads together to get them to see the light.
I normally am a little apprehensive of standalones. Mostly because I feel like they are rushed. I need a full story, and I hate the idea of missing out on building a relationship with a book, just to squeeze it all into one novel. This was not the case with Roman and Alex. There were parts in the story that were going fast, but it worked for the entirety of the plot. Often I am left feeling aloof, and only semi satisfied, but this was a hook, line, and sinker. This story is complete to the T.
2- What a emotional sexy ass rollercoaster of a ride this story was.
3- If you are looking for something to get you out of that reading slump, or just love yourself some characters who fall hard and love harder, and you hopefully aren't afraid of catching the feels, definitely check out this book!
4- THE SPOTIFY PLAYLIST WAS PERFECT AND SENT IT TO A WHOLE NEW LEVEL!
This was an ARC read for me, and I would have never guessed that this is only the start of Author T. Ashleigh's journey. I am so very excited for more works to come from her! I have read books from authors who are well established and definitely not at their first rodeo and the books be full of plot holes. But Brava ma'am. Brava!
To start, Roman and Alex are a tragically beautiful romance. It is a dark MM Mafia romance. Beware of certain triggers when considering this novel. But honestly its all a part of the plot. There were times when I wanted to cry, and scream, and maybe knock some heads together to get them to see the light.
I normally am a little apprehensive of standalones. Mostly because I feel like they are rushed. I need a full story, and I hate the idea of missing out on building a relationship with a book, just to squeeze it all into one novel. This was not the case with Roman and Alex. There were parts in the story that were going fast, but it worked for the entirety of the plot. Often I am left feeling aloof, and only semi satisfied, but this was a hook, line, and sinker. This story is complete to the T.
April 27, 2022
Book..Crack. Wtf is my life right now…
it’s 4am and I just binged read this because I legit could not put this book down. 😅
Roman and Alex on page chemistry and passion was beautiful. I say was … because this went a totally different direction then I expected. When they say “morally grey character” Roman is legit 50 shades of questionable.
*read the trigger warnings*
Roman..god. Where do I even begin. This book took me on an absolute emotional freaking roller coaster. I loved him so hard. Tall, dark, handsome, powerful mafia man…. The smut scenes are delicious 🥵
And then the crazy that is a product of his tragic upbringing came through and wow. Just wow… There goes my heart. For Alex and him both 💔
I wasn’t sure how they were going to come back from it all and was 93% in and panicking over it 😂
In the end we do get the happy ending but I wish there was more of the redemption and relationship re-build/re-pair. They both went through so much. Roman had a LOT to work on for himself and make up for that I would’ve liked to have read more of that and seen more of the new him while they moved forward together.
Insanely captivating book. 🤯 this is a debut!
it’s 4am and I just binged read this because I legit could not put this book down. 😅
Roman and Alex on page chemistry and passion was beautiful. I say was … because this went a totally different direction then I expected. When they say “morally grey character” Roman is legit 50 shades of questionable.
*read the trigger warnings*
Roman..god. Where do I even begin. This book took me on an absolute emotional freaking roller coaster. I loved him so hard. Tall, dark, handsome, powerful mafia man…. The smut scenes are delicious 🥵
And then the crazy that is a product of his tragic upbringing came through and wow. Just wow… There goes my heart. For Alex and him both 💔
I wasn’t sure how they were going to come back from it all and was 93% in and panicking over it 😂
In the end we do get the happy ending but I wish there was more of the redemption and relationship re-build/re-pair. They both went through so much. Roman had a LOT to work on for himself and make up for that I would’ve liked to have read more of that and seen more of the new him while they moved forward together.
Insanely captivating book. 🤯 this is a debut!
April 17, 2022
ARC Review
Dark Mafia Romance, M/M
Wow, first I want to thank T. Ashleigh for giving me the opportunity to be apart of Roman and Alex’s story!
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅𝒐𝒈𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑨𝒍𝒆𝒙 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒆. 𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏, 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆”
This book had me in a chokehold! The emotions I was feeling while reading😭.
Alex is living his best life as a college student, him and his best friend go to the bar for a night of fun when he meets this dark mesmerizing stranger. He’s draw to him the moment he lays eyes on him. But he doesnt know the dark monster lurking underneath.
Roman never lets people in, doesnt want them to see the monster that lurks in him. A cold-blooded killer. But one taste of Alex and he’s obsessed, but he knows the danger he’s putting Alex in by being with him, Roman tries to keep his work and past in the dark, but when tragedy hits and Alex finds out the truth he unleashes his monster.
The raw emotions we see from Alex, what he goes through while learning about Roman’s true self. He was torn between following his heart and what was right for himself. It was hard to read at some points but made the story so much more addicting and I needed to know what happened
I wanted to bash Roman head in half way through the story!
The smutt in this book is off the charts, the action and plot twist had my heart breaking! Definitely one of my favourites this year!
If you enjoy dark romances this one is for you!
Trigger warnings
kidnapping
emotional abuse
physical abuse
murders
Dark Mafia Romance, M/M
Wow, first I want to thank T. Ashleigh for giving me the opportunity to be apart of Roman and Alex’s story!
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒇𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅𝒐𝒈𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑨𝒍𝒆𝒙 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒆. 𝑰𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏, 𝑰 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒇𝒆”
This book had me in a chokehold! The emotions I was feeling while reading😭.
Alex is living his best life as a college student, him and his best friend go to the bar for a night of fun when he meets this dark mesmerizing stranger. He’s draw to him the moment he lays eyes on him. But he doesnt know the dark monster lurking underneath.
Roman never lets people in, doesnt want them to see the monster that lurks in him. A cold-blooded killer. But one taste of Alex and he’s obsessed, but he knows the danger he’s putting Alex in by being with him, Roman tries to keep his work and past in the dark, but when tragedy hits and Alex finds out the truth he unleashes his monster.
The raw emotions we see from Alex, what he goes through while learning about Roman’s true self. He was torn between following his heart and what was right for himself. It was hard to read at some points but made the story so much more addicting and I needed to know what happened
I wanted to bash Roman head in half way through the story!
The smutt in this book is off the charts, the action and plot twist had my heart breaking! Definitely one of my favourites this year!
If you enjoy dark romances this one is for you!
Trigger warnings
kidnapping
emotional abuse
physical abuse
murders
May 7, 2022
1.5 stars. No, just no to this book. It's not a badly written book, but boy oh boy is it massively problematic. On the surface, it's like bad-boy mob boss falls in love with a cute sweet guy and is soft for him. I can get behind that, there's something to be said for 'he's a bastard, but he's my bastard' stories. But Roman, the bastard in question, is like really really really awful. He is a murderous psychopath, to be sure, but he also literally physically and emotionally abuses Alex for a long-ass time. Sure the sex was hot; but being bullied into marriage, locked up in your own home, and beaten by your husband is super not. I felt sick. The book is called The Redemption of Roman, so like, obviously there's a character arc in there, but I didn't buy it. Roman deserved to go to prison, not end up with a happily ever after, no matter how much he says he's changed. I was 100% not rooting for this couple. I don't read MF romance, so I don't know if authors romanticize intimate partner violence in MF books as well, but they really need to stop doing it in MM romances. It was so gross and I feel a bit dirty now, but not in a good way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2022
This book was amazing and everything I wanted from a Mafia book 🖤
Alex is out 1 night with his best friend and comes into contact with a gorgeous Roman. What happens next is like a rollercoaster for your emotions.
The story is face paced with so may twists and turns everything takes you by suprise. I loved the relationship between the 2 MMC. Alex is a loveable sweetheart that you just want to look after and love forever. Roman is a massive alpha-hole but only has eyes for Alex.
The spice from the beginning is seriously 🥵🥵 There is a lot of violence in this book which is awesome especially for Mafia. There are quite a few dark themes so please read TW.
The emotions I felt throughout where crazy, I was happy, sad, love, wanted to throw my kindle 🤣 The 2 of them go through such a journey.
The ending was fabulous and made me tear up 🥰 it was the perfect end to a wonderful story.
Alex is out 1 night with his best friend and comes into contact with a gorgeous Roman. What happens next is like a rollercoaster for your emotions.
The story is face paced with so may twists and turns everything takes you by suprise. I loved the relationship between the 2 MMC. Alex is a loveable sweetheart that you just want to look after and love forever. Roman is a massive alpha-hole but only has eyes for Alex.
The spice from the beginning is seriously 🥵🥵 There is a lot of violence in this book which is awesome especially for Mafia. There are quite a few dark themes so please read TW.
The emotions I felt throughout where crazy, I was happy, sad, love, wanted to throw my kindle 🤣 The 2 of them go through such a journey.
The ending was fabulous and made me tear up 🥰 it was the perfect end to a wonderful story.
April 13, 2022
This book blew me away, it grabbed me and it crushed me. The story has a surprising and original storyline which is very good. This is the author's first book but you wouldn't say that. The book come with trigger warnings.
May 5, 2022
For a debut book it was amazing. I loved that it was dark and mafia. I loved that it was so different from so many other books. The story captured me and didn´t let go before I finished it. I want to know more from this author and hope for a lot more books. Because I love dark, mafia books!!
April 17, 2022
The wonderful T has written a plot filled with an obsession so toxic you will only become addicted. T will take you on a rollacoaster of emotions, you will melt between the sheets, squeal as your heart escapes your chest in the flower garden and then watch it shatter to a million pieces at your feet as you crawl across it to escape with your sanity intact.
Roman is the dark, brooding mafia under boss who's name strikes fear into the hearts of men who dare to cross him or brave his presence. His world is eclipsed by an angel who gives him a glimpse of heaven, filled with extacy and planted the seed of obsession. Knowing no bounds to get his hearts desire Roman will stop at nothing to claim what he wants, as is his right or so he believes. In an effort to protect his angel his obsession becomes heart wrentchingly toxic as he tries to keep their blossoming love and his dark world apart. When the two worlds collide Romans monster breaks free and the resulting fallout will crush every ounce of love that existed into dust.
Alex is an incandescent soul who radiates joy, he draws people to him like moths to a flame. His bff is one of the best you will ever meet and these two are ride or die until the truth becomes too humiliating. One night of clubbing change Alex's life he was swept off his feet by the hot Mr dark and broody for a night of hot passion and memories to last a lifetime until the day he turned up again and invaded Alex's life. Alex falls hard and fast for the Roman he is shown but he's only seen one side of the coin until the truth is laid bare. Romans toxic obsession breaks Alex in every painful way possible he is left with no choice but to run and start over even if that means forever being broken.
Their love explodes with a blustering intensity that pulls your heart strings and have you invest everything in them only for T well Roman to shatter it mid beat then crush it to dust with his actions. Romans redemption arc is hard, deep and painful for him but when faced to look in the mirror and see the truth it's a hard pill to swallow but he does, his redemption arc is hard won but brilliantly written.
If you love MM, is you love emotional turmoil, tears and redemption this is the book for you.
Roman is the dark, brooding mafia under boss who's name strikes fear into the hearts of men who dare to cross him or brave his presence. His world is eclipsed by an angel who gives him a glimpse of heaven, filled with extacy and planted the seed of obsession. Knowing no bounds to get his hearts desire Roman will stop at nothing to claim what he wants, as is his right or so he believes. In an effort to protect his angel his obsession becomes heart wrentchingly toxic as he tries to keep their blossoming love and his dark world apart. When the two worlds collide Romans monster breaks free and the resulting fallout will crush every ounce of love that existed into dust.
Alex is an incandescent soul who radiates joy, he draws people to him like moths to a flame. His bff is one of the best you will ever meet and these two are ride or die until the truth becomes too humiliating. One night of clubbing change Alex's life he was swept off his feet by the hot Mr dark and broody for a night of hot passion and memories to last a lifetime until the day he turned up again and invaded Alex's life. Alex falls hard and fast for the Roman he is shown but he's only seen one side of the coin until the truth is laid bare. Romans toxic obsession breaks Alex in every painful way possible he is left with no choice but to run and start over even if that means forever being broken.
Their love explodes with a blustering intensity that pulls your heart strings and have you invest everything in them only for T well Roman to shatter it mid beat then crush it to dust with his actions. Romans redemption arc is hard, deep and painful for him but when faced to look in the mirror and see the truth it's a hard pill to swallow but he does, his redemption arc is hard won but brilliantly written.
If you love MM, is you love emotional turmoil, tears and redemption this is the book for you.
April 26, 2022
I was honestly left speechless. I didn't realize how much I needed a book that was written this way and I'm not talking about just the plot either. Books usually wait until the epilogue or the very end to bring up marriage but not this book. This book touched on everything from the start of their relationship until the very end.
You get to see how Roman and Alex meet, how their relationship builds, and how they came to the heart-shattering truth of everything. Roman is a strong-minded person who is the underboss in the Italian Mafia, Alex is a college graduate who meets Roman while out dancing with his best friend at one of Roman's clubs.
From the first meeting, they feel the sparks and can't help but be in each other's life. As the time passes Roman begins to show his true colors towards Alex and it leaves the question of, who is Roman Giuliani? It's not until Alex gets kidnapped by one of Romans' enemies that Alex learns the truth about the man he married, and that's when everything changes for him.
As the months pass Roman becomes more violent towards Alex. But even through it all Alex still feels the same love he felt when they first met, now. Being left with no choice but to run away Alex finds himself in a different state and creating a new life that is until Roman finds him.
The relationship isn't easy but you can see the love that they both have for each other, even though Roman has a rough way of showing it he truly does love Alex and it takes him everything to show him how far he is willing to go to show him how deep that love goes for him.
This book was truly amazing and I couldn't get enough of it. PLEASE! read the Trigger Warnings before reading as it may not be intended for all audiences.
You get to see how Roman and Alex meet, how their relationship builds, and how they came to the heart-shattering truth of everything. Roman is a strong-minded person who is the underboss in the Italian Mafia, Alex is a college graduate who meets Roman while out dancing with his best friend at one of Roman's clubs.
From the first meeting, they feel the sparks and can't help but be in each other's life. As the time passes Roman begins to show his true colors towards Alex and it leaves the question of, who is Roman Giuliani? It's not until Alex gets kidnapped by one of Romans' enemies that Alex learns the truth about the man he married, and that's when everything changes for him.
As the months pass Roman becomes more violent towards Alex. But even through it all Alex still feels the same love he felt when they first met, now. Being left with no choice but to run away Alex finds himself in a different state and creating a new life that is until Roman finds him.
The relationship isn't easy but you can see the love that they both have for each other, even though Roman has a rough way of showing it he truly does love Alex and it takes him everything to show him how far he is willing to go to show him how deep that love goes for him.
This book was truly amazing and I couldn't get enough of it. PLEASE! read the Trigger Warnings before reading as it may not be intended for all audiences.
May 1, 2022
“𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒂𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒔 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕…𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌. 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑰’𝒗𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒆𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒔.”
This was an impressive debut Novel by T. Ashleigh. I was taken in right from the get go! The first chapter promises this is going to be a wild ride of obsessive love, passion, violence, kidnapping, murder, whilst being on the road to redemption.
I couldn't help but fall in love with Alex and Roman. I love broken characters, whose only weakness is the man they love. Roman was damaged after years of physiological abuse at the hands of his father and the brutal and unforgiving Mafia lifestyle. Hardened and desensitised to the world he lived in, until he met Alex.
Alex was such a cutie and I absolutely loved the beginning of their story, the passion between them was a palpable thing. With any passion that burns so bright there is bound to be casualties along the way but I wasn't ready for any of it!
This is a story about a love that is all consuming, that pulls you in, turns you around and upside down and repeats. Until you don't know which way is up and which way is down. My emotions were all over the place, so many conflicting emotions. I wanted to shake Roman and hug him all at once. This is action packed with lots of mystery, crime lords, feisty best friends and edge of seat moments. That just might have you shouting or crying in desperation a few times.
This was an impressive debut Novel by T. Ashleigh. I was taken in right from the get go! The first chapter promises this is going to be a wild ride of obsessive love, passion, violence, kidnapping, murder, whilst being on the road to redemption.
I couldn't help but fall in love with Alex and Roman. I love broken characters, whose only weakness is the man they love. Roman was damaged after years of physiological abuse at the hands of his father and the brutal and unforgiving Mafia lifestyle. Hardened and desensitised to the world he lived in, until he met Alex.
Alex was such a cutie and I absolutely loved the beginning of their story, the passion between them was a palpable thing. With any passion that burns so bright there is bound to be casualties along the way but I wasn't ready for any of it!
This is a story about a love that is all consuming, that pulls you in, turns you around and upside down and repeats. Until you don't know which way is up and which way is down. My emotions were all over the place, so many conflicting emotions. I wanted to shake Roman and hug him all at once. This is action packed with lots of mystery, crime lords, feisty best friends and edge of seat moments. That just might have you shouting or crying in desperation a few times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2022
This is definitely a great mafia book. I’ve never read a mafia book with M/M but I loved this unique combination. The sparks and steam between Roman and Alex had me hooked right from the start. Secrets and lies threaten to ruin their relationship that was already a whirlwind. I could feel the characters’ emotions while reading. I could feel the love, anger, and was even ugly crying at certain parts.
I loved Alex and Roman. Alex tore my heart out with his emotions. I got so angry at Roman but his character development made me love him by the end of the book. Roman is truly a hot alpha and Alex is the love that he needs to find peace.
I can’t believe this was the author’s debut because the story was emotional, unique, and a complete page-turner. If you enjoy mafia or M/M with lots of unpredictable twists and action then you need to grab this book!
I loved Alex and Roman. Alex tore my heart out with his emotions. I got so angry at Roman but his character development made me love him by the end of the book. Roman is truly a hot alpha and Alex is the love that he needs to find peace.
I can’t believe this was the author’s debut because the story was emotional, unique, and a complete page-turner. If you enjoy mafia or M/M with lots of unpredictable twists and action then you need to grab this book!
July 10, 2022
i don't know what to make of this book. the abuse was one of the hardest things I've read through but somehow i was still on Roman's side the whole time?😭
the ending was a bit its-the-end-of-the-book -so-i-turned-into-a-good-person and also it was very strange that an underboss for the Italian mafia didn't have one single scar on him, or if he did Alex didn't notice it while kissing him all over for the 100th time🤡. even the bullet wounds from the fake-death weren't mentioned later.
Being hard on him hasn’t worked out like I thought it would, to my utter dismay, I cannot understand why not. My father’s punishments were way harder than anything I could ever bestow upon Alex, so why is he acting like I’m the villain?Ah characters like these remind me of the brutal world we live in, makes me wonder how i ever forgot.
the ending was a bit its-the-end-of-the-book -so-i-turned-into-a-good-person and also it was very strange that an underboss for the Italian mafia didn't have one single scar on him, or if he did Alex didn't notice it while kissing him all over for the 100th time🤡. even the bullet wounds from the fake-death weren't mentioned later.
not-interested
May 18, 2022lol no
i made it 3%
please for the love of god use contractions
i found the writing to be awkward and stilted, and i don't like reading books where the first person POV talks to me either
i made it 3%
please for the love of god use contractions
i found the writing to be awkward and stilted, and i don't like reading books where the first person POV talks to me either
April 26, 2022
WOW! As a debut novel this story was outstanding. I was hooked right from the very intriguing beginning and could not put it down. The story kept me riveted to my seat, biting my nails with anticipation and fanning myself to cool off over the spiciness of the story. It was a thrilling and highly entertaining rollercoaster ride that I never wanted to end.
Alex and Roman are fantastic characters. One is sweet, innocent and so darn cute. The other is domineering, rough, angry and 100% an alpha a-hole. But the chemistry that these two have is off the charts explosive and highly combustible. The passion and love that Alex and Roman have for one another oozed off the pages and had me falling head over heels for the two of them. But is passion and love enough when secrets, lies and betrayals come to light?
This was a really well written story that was filled to the brim with emotions, danger, drama, action, violence, blood and steam. I laughed a lot, I cried a little and I totally needed to take a cold shower continually throughout!
I loved every deliciously dark second of this story and I can’t wait to see what this new author comes out with next. Highly recommend.
Alex and Roman are fantastic characters. One is sweet, innocent and so darn cute. The other is domineering, rough, angry and 100% an alpha a-hole. But the chemistry that these two have is off the charts explosive and highly combustible. The passion and love that Alex and Roman have for one another oozed off the pages and had me falling head over heels for the two of them. But is passion and love enough when secrets, lies and betrayals come to light?
This was a really well written story that was filled to the brim with emotions, danger, drama, action, violence, blood and steam. I laughed a lot, I cried a little and I totally needed to take a cold shower continually throughout!
I loved every deliciously dark second of this story and I can’t wait to see what this new author comes out with next. Highly recommend.
May 1, 2022
The Redemption of Roman definitely puts you on a rollercoaster of emotions. Roman is part of the Mafia but hides it from his boyfriend, Alex. Alex is Roman's weakest point, so the other 2 Mafia families are after him. Roman's moods and behavior towards Alex change because of it, he becomes hateful, possessive, abusive. You love the chemistry between the characters, but eventually end up hating Roman. In the end you get to see if he redeems himself or not. Highly recommend this book. Pay attention to the trigger warnings if you need to. I can't wait for more books in this series! Also, loving the Spotify list for this book.
May 3, 2022
OMG.. This book is amazing!! How is this your first book.. I fell in love with this book straight away. If a book has me from the start I know it is going to be great.. This book does that and more.
Please read the trigger warnings before proceeding though.
This is a great Maria MM novel.
I cant wait to see what is install in T.Asheligh's next book
Please read the trigger warnings before proceeding though.
This is a great Maria MM novel.
I cant wait to see what is install in T.Asheligh's next book
April 23, 2022
I don’t read or listen to many Mafia books but the blurb for this intrigued me. The minute Roman and Alex meet they can feel a connection they spend the night together but next morning Alex leaves. Roman gets his police connection to try and find Alex because he just can’t get him off his mind when they meet again they both realise it’s something more than a casual fling. Things move quickly for them both and Alex isn’t exactly comfortable with the speed it’s progressing but he agrees to appease Roman. Roman is keeping lots of things from Alex because he thinks it’s protecting him however when Alex finds out about Roman will he be able to live with it or will he want out ? I really enjoyed this story and Alex’s relationship with Lacey his bff is special and she sticks by him through it all.
The Redemption of RomanT. Ashleigh
The Redemption of RomanT. Ashleigh
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