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Rogue Hearts #3
A Perfect Secret
Desperate to protect her father from trial and death, Genevieve breaks off her engagement with Christian Amesbury and marries a blackmailer. After a year of marriage, she flees her husband's violent domination only to have fate bring her back to Christian. Just when she thinks she's started a new life of safety and solitude, her husband tracks her down, stalks her, and threatens everyone she loves.
Still brokenhearted over Genevieve's betrayal a year ago, Christian can't believe she's come back into his life--and worse, that she's done it on the anniversary of his brother's death, a death that haunts him. Though tempted to throw her back into the river where he found her, he can't leave her at the mercy of the terrifying man she married.
When her husband torments Genevieve and puts the Amesbury family in danger, Christian will do anything to protect those he loves...anything except give Genevieve another chance to break his heart.
Still brokenhearted over Genevieve's betrayal a year ago, Christian can't believe she's come back into his life--and worse, that she's done it on the anniversary of his brother's death, a death that haunts him. Though tempted to throw her back into the river where he found her, he can't leave her at the mercy of the terrifying man she married.
When her husband torments Genevieve and puts the Amesbury family in danger, Christian will do anything to protect those he loves...anything except give Genevieve another chance to break his heart.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 21, 2013
144 people are currently reading
728 people want to read
About the author
Donna Hatch
41 books1,037 followersMulti-award-winning author of more than twenty best-selling Regency Historical Romances, Donna Hatch is a hopeful romantic and an adventurer at heart. Each book she writes is filled with wit and heart and plenty of swoon-worthy romance. Donna sings, plays the harp, and loves to ballroom dance. Her family, including six children and two cats, recently left their native Arizona for the Pacific coast of the US. No matter where they live, she and her husband of over twenty years are proof that there truly is a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
May 14, 2020
I enjoyed this one even more the second time around.
I liked both Christian and Genevieve. I love Second Chance love stories, and these two have really gone through a lot, but are finally getting another chance to be together. If they can get over the pain and trials that have kept them apart. They have both changed a lot in the year they’ve been apart and have to learn to trust one another again. I actually enjoyed their relationship and was rooting for them to find a way to be together.
Overall, I thought this was a fun read. We get to see past characters that I love and meet a few new ones. Made me anxious to continue the series.
Content
Romance: Clean, just kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild. Talk of past abuse, no details. Mild fighting & attempted murder, nothing graphic
Series: Book three, but can stand on it's own
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I liked both Christian and Genevieve. I love Second Chance love stories, and these two have really gone through a lot, but are finally getting another chance to be together. If they can get over the pain and trials that have kept them apart. They have both changed a lot in the year they’ve been apart and have to learn to trust one another again. I actually enjoyed their relationship and was rooting for them to find a way to be together.
Overall, I thought this was a fun read. We get to see past characters that I love and meet a few new ones. Made me anxious to continue the series.
Content
Romance: Clean, just kissing
Language: None
Violence: Mild. Talk of past abuse, no details. Mild fighting & attempted murder, nothing graphic
Series: Book three, but can stand on it's own
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
December 5, 2013
I love the stories about these brothers!! I must admit, I was curious about the brother they always called "Perfectly Perfect Christian." I imagined him to be almost a saint and maybe destined to become a priest. However, I was surprised to learn that there are reasons for him to be the way he is and he's not as perfect as everyone thinks. He's still a great guy, but he's human.
I was a taken off guard by the way the story began. Instead of watching the characters (Christian and Genevieve) fall in love, the story begins with them already in love...and then the trials start. I was appalled at the things Jen went through and had to endure, all in her mind's idea of duty and to protect her parents. I was also appalled at the feelings the two felt for one another when it wasn't legally possible for them to be together. In a way, it proved to me that things aren't always as they seem. I can look at people and be jealous of their perfect lives or I can be sure that they have their own struggles and trials that aren't physical and outwardly apparent.
I thought the twists and turns in the story were cleverly done. I'm just not a big fan of adultery--or anything close to it, no matter the circumstances.
Content: some violence; some murders and attempted murders; kissing; nothing is overly descriptive, so I would label it as technically clean.
I was a taken off guard by the way the story began. Instead of watching the characters (Christian and Genevieve) fall in love, the story begins with them already in love...and then the trials start. I was appalled at the things Jen went through and had to endure, all in her mind's idea of duty and to protect her parents. I was also appalled at the feelings the two felt for one another when it wasn't legally possible for them to be together. In a way, it proved to me that things aren't always as they seem. I can look at people and be jealous of their perfect lives or I can be sure that they have their own struggles and trials that aren't physical and outwardly apparent.
I thought the twists and turns in the story were cleverly done. I'm just not a big fan of adultery--or anything close to it, no matter the circumstances.
Content: some violence; some murders and attempted murders; kissing; nothing is overly descriptive, so I would label it as technically clean.
November 13, 2013
This is Book 3 in the Rogue Hearts series -- You don't have to read them in order, but I'm glad I did! ;) I have loved all the books in this series and I'm so happy that the author is planning to write 3 more...
Christian Amesbury is the youngest son and has never been taken seriously by his older brothers. They call him "the perfectly perfect Christian" and have always picked on him, especially his older brother Grant. Grant was really close to their brother Jason who died when then-6-year-old Christian dared him to jump from one tree branch to another, and Jason died in the attempt. Grant made it no secret that he wished it had been Christian who had died.
Seventeen years later Genevieve Marshall and Christian Amesbury have fallen in love! He is about to propose when tragedy strikes her family and she is forced to marry Viscount Wickburgh to keep him from blackmailing and destroying her family. She convinces Christian that she wants to marry Viscount Wickburgh (even though the very thought of him sickens her) because of his title, and Christian leaves heartbroken and feeling like she has "played" him.
One year later Genevieve has suffered horrible abuse at the hands of her husband and has run away. Her plan is to end her life, but Christian happens to find her and rescues her. She hopes to find a position somewhere far away where she can live under an assumed name and live free from her husband. Christian convinces her to go live with his sister Rachel, who is living as a recluse. I really enjoyed getting to know Rachel in this book!
While he refuses to get involved with a married woman, Christian has always loved Genevieve and will do anything to help her be safe from her husband. In order to help her, Christian has to swallow his pride and ask for help from his older brother, Grant. There is a lot of action (probably more action than romance) in this book, but I loved watching Christian go from the youngest brother that no one took seriously and become the man who earned respect from his older brothers, especially Grant.
Clean Fiction.
Christian Amesbury is the youngest son and has never been taken seriously by his older brothers. They call him "the perfectly perfect Christian" and have always picked on him, especially his older brother Grant. Grant was really close to their brother Jason who died when then-6-year-old Christian dared him to jump from one tree branch to another, and Jason died in the attempt. Grant made it no secret that he wished it had been Christian who had died.
Seventeen years later Genevieve Marshall and Christian Amesbury have fallen in love! He is about to propose when tragedy strikes her family and she is forced to marry Viscount Wickburgh to keep him from blackmailing and destroying her family. She convinces Christian that she wants to marry Viscount Wickburgh (even though the very thought of him sickens her) because of his title, and Christian leaves heartbroken and feeling like she has "played" him.
One year later Genevieve has suffered horrible abuse at the hands of her husband and has run away. Her plan is to end her life, but Christian happens to find her and rescues her. She hopes to find a position somewhere far away where she can live under an assumed name and live free from her husband. Christian convinces her to go live with his sister Rachel, who is living as a recluse. I really enjoyed getting to know Rachel in this book!
While he refuses to get involved with a married woman, Christian has always loved Genevieve and will do anything to help her be safe from her husband. In order to help her, Christian has to swallow his pride and ask for help from his older brother, Grant. There is a lot of action (probably more action than romance) in this book, but I loved watching Christian go from the youngest brother that no one took seriously and become the man who earned respect from his older brothers, especially Grant.
Clean Fiction.
October 23, 2013
3.5 stars
I have been dying to read this book for so long. I am a huge Donna Hatch fan and pretty much would follow her around like a groupie if it wasn't for my beautiful children, loving husband and all my other life responsibilities that keep me a nice sweet homemaker. :)
With that being said I got this book for my Birthday as a gift and I had to immediately read it. Life is put on hold when certain authors come out with new books. I want to start out by saying that I love the Amesbury family. Love them. I loved the first two books in this series and was looking forward to hearing Christian's story. I have to be honest, this one was very different from the first two books and I just did not "love it." It just wasn't sweet and the tension was real tension and at times it made my stomach crawl a little. I thought Christian and Jen were so cute together but with out giving away spoilers, I just couldn't get as into it because of Jen's current situation. She wasn't able to "love" someone else. Normally I root for a kiss to happen and can't wait for that moment. That didn't happen for me in this book. I couldn't root for it because it was wrong. When it happened before certain things needed to take place first(sorry this will all make sense once you've read it), I just couldn't enjoy it. I just would of loved a completely different story for the two of them. I didn't like how Jen's parents let these things happen to her and I couldn't stand the sadness of it all.
Not my favorite, but still love me a Hatch book.
I have been dying to read this book for so long. I am a huge Donna Hatch fan and pretty much would follow her around like a groupie if it wasn't for my beautiful children, loving husband and all my other life responsibilities that keep me a nice sweet homemaker. :)
With that being said I got this book for my Birthday as a gift and I had to immediately read it. Life is put on hold when certain authors come out with new books. I want to start out by saying that I love the Amesbury family. Love them. I loved the first two books in this series and was looking forward to hearing Christian's story. I have to be honest, this one was very different from the first two books and I just did not "love it." It just wasn't sweet and the tension was real tension and at times it made my stomach crawl a little. I thought Christian and Jen were so cute together but with out giving away spoilers, I just couldn't get as into it because of Jen's current situation. She wasn't able to "love" someone else. Normally I root for a kiss to happen and can't wait for that moment. That didn't happen for me in this book. I couldn't root for it because it was wrong. When it happened before certain things needed to take place first(sorry this will all make sense once you've read it), I just couldn't enjoy it. I just would of loved a completely different story for the two of them. I didn't like how Jen's parents let these things happen to her and I couldn't stand the sadness of it all.
Not my favorite, but still love me a Hatch book.
February 28, 2016
Loved the ending
A Perfect Secret is book 3 in the Rogue Hearts series. This book has a lot more serious tone than the first two books if I remember right. I don't remember them being near as sad. It starts off heartbreaking and continues to have a lot of sad drama throughout. That being said I still found it a very enjoyable read ....which shows you how good of on author Donna Hatch is. I usually have a hard time enjoying "sad" books but i couldn't put it down. I adore Christian, he may be my favorite of the brothers. My heart ached for he and poor Genevieve and all they had to go through! The story had a beautiful ending and I can't wait to read book 4!
A Perfect Secret is book 3 in the Rogue Hearts series. This book has a lot more serious tone than the first two books if I remember right. I don't remember them being near as sad. It starts off heartbreaking and continues to have a lot of sad drama throughout. That being said I still found it a very enjoyable read ....which shows you how good of on author Donna Hatch is. I usually have a hard time enjoying "sad" books but i couldn't put it down. I adore Christian, he may be my favorite of the brothers. My heart ached for he and poor Genevieve and all they had to go through! The story had a beautiful ending and I can't wait to read book 4!
February 11, 2017
I cannot say enough great things about Donna's books. Excellent pacing, clean romance that will make you swoon and action that will keep you turning pages. I loved reading this story about Christian--it sucked me right in! Each of the plots in Donna's series is new and refreshing. Loved!
February 17, 2017
Binge read this series. Highly recommend to fans of regency romance. Clean.
July 3, 2014
I always enjoy books by Donna Hatch. This has been a fun series so far with these Amesbury brothers, each with their own demons to battle. Donna’s characters always have personality oozing from them. It’s so easy to get caught up in the story and feel like you know these characters. The great thing about a series involving family is that the characters never really go away even if the books are not centered on them. They make those appearances (as families often do) and it feels good to still have that connection with characters I previously loved.
In this book we get the full story on the “perfectly perfect” Christian. I’m so glad because I’ve been waiting to know more about him. He is the youngest of the Amesbury brothers and has spent his whole life trying to prove to his brothers that he is just as good as them. I just love Christian. He is honorable and all things a gentleman should be. He doesn’t have those “rakish” qualities but instead has a charming sweetness about him. Just thinking about him makes me want to say again, I just love Christian.
Christian isn’t without his demons though. He has a secret that haunts him. When Genevieve, the love of his heart, betrays him, Christian goes to a dark and cheerless place.
Genevieve is a very loyal lady. She tries so hard to protect her father and mother but in doing so, invites the very devil himself into her life. She gives up the life of love she knew she could have with Christian to protect her father’s secret. I’m so glad we didn’t spend much time lingering in that year of hell for Genevieve and instead just get glimpses along the way of what she endured. It is so sad and her husband gave me the creeps.
One of the things I love best about this book is how those Amesbury brothers rally the troops when one is in need. They are quick to jump in and stand behind each other. It’s a good feeling to know someone has your back. I think Christian learns a lot in this book about family and forgiveness. That is always a good message to walk away with as a reader.
I really, really enjoyed this book. It was an awesome escape from reality and I literally devoured this book in a day. I love when that happens. (My family, not so much. Fix your own dinner, family! Hee hee)
In this book we get the full story on the “perfectly perfect” Christian. I’m so glad because I’ve been waiting to know more about him. He is the youngest of the Amesbury brothers and has spent his whole life trying to prove to his brothers that he is just as good as them. I just love Christian. He is honorable and all things a gentleman should be. He doesn’t have those “rakish” qualities but instead has a charming sweetness about him. Just thinking about him makes me want to say again, I just love Christian.
Christian isn’t without his demons though. He has a secret that haunts him. When Genevieve, the love of his heart, betrays him, Christian goes to a dark and cheerless place.
Genevieve is a very loyal lady. She tries so hard to protect her father and mother but in doing so, invites the very devil himself into her life. She gives up the life of love she knew she could have with Christian to protect her father’s secret. I’m so glad we didn’t spend much time lingering in that year of hell for Genevieve and instead just get glimpses along the way of what she endured. It is so sad and her husband gave me the creeps.
One of the things I love best about this book is how those Amesbury brothers rally the troops when one is in need. They are quick to jump in and stand behind each other. It’s a good feeling to know someone has your back. I think Christian learns a lot in this book about family and forgiveness. That is always a good message to walk away with as a reader.
I really, really enjoyed this book. It was an awesome escape from reality and I literally devoured this book in a day. I love when that happens. (My family, not so much. Fix your own dinner, family! Hee hee)
June 17, 2019
This story was intense. You read about the youngest Amesbury brother. How he loses Genevieve to the abusive Lord Wickburgh, to rescuing her from the river. The journey back to each other and finding out what separated them in the first place and why! What I enjoyed most about this story is how the Amesbury brothers came together! When Christian needed help, he didn't have to ask, they were there!
April 4, 2017
Another great addition to Donna Hatch's Rogue Hearts series. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of the books so far. The series features the four Amesbury brothers - Cole, Jared, Grant and Christian. I hope the author will also do at least one of the sisters - Rachel since she's been featured in this book especially.
Christian, who is the hero in this book, has intrigued me almost as much as Grant (the fourth book). The brothers seem to feel they are not close, but they are always the first ones there to rescue each other. There seems to be a large rift between Christian and Grant, so when Christian asks for Grant's help in this book, you know it is a very, very serious problem. Christian is the youngest brother and has always been teased and made to feel inferior to the others. He blames himself for the death of his ten-year old brother Jason. Grant also blames Christian even though it was just kids being kids.
Genevieve loves Christian with her entire heart and soul and they plan to marry. However, a villain intervenes and she is forced to marry him in order to save her parents. She shatters Christian in her attempt to keep him safe and away from the villain by telling him that she had just been using him and she really wanted to marry someone with a title.
A year later Genevieve tries to kill herself to escape the tyranny of her husband. Without knowing who he is trying to save, Christian dives into the cold, swollen, rushing waters of the river and pulls a lifeless body to shore. He finally revives her - and realizes it is Genevieve.
A not so merry chase begins with Christian trying to protect Genevieve and keep her safe while protecting his heart from the unforgivable jilt.
I've been curious about Christian and had hoped to find some answers in this book. I did get a few answers, but not fully enough to satisfy me. For instance -- in the last book -- Christian was instrumental in saving Jared through his contacts, which surprise his brothers, but no explanation about what in Christians past generated those contacts. There is also mention of his expertise with shooting and swordplay -- but no explanation. I sort of expected to find that he was secretly working for the Home Office or something and that would explain all of those anomalies, but no -- no real explanation for that. The only real revelations were around Jason's death.
So, now I am looking forward to Grant's book. He has intrigued me more than any of them, so it will be interesting to see if the explanations of his past are better than Christians!
Christian, who is the hero in this book, has intrigued me almost as much as Grant (the fourth book). The brothers seem to feel they are not close, but they are always the first ones there to rescue each other. There seems to be a large rift between Christian and Grant, so when Christian asks for Grant's help in this book, you know it is a very, very serious problem. Christian is the youngest brother and has always been teased and made to feel inferior to the others. He blames himself for the death of his ten-year old brother Jason. Grant also blames Christian even though it was just kids being kids.
Genevieve loves Christian with her entire heart and soul and they plan to marry. However, a villain intervenes and she is forced to marry him in order to save her parents. She shatters Christian in her attempt to keep him safe and away from the villain by telling him that she had just been using him and she really wanted to marry someone with a title.
A year later Genevieve tries to kill herself to escape the tyranny of her husband. Without knowing who he is trying to save, Christian dives into the cold, swollen, rushing waters of the river and pulls a lifeless body to shore. He finally revives her - and realizes it is Genevieve.
A not so merry chase begins with Christian trying to protect Genevieve and keep her safe while protecting his heart from the unforgivable jilt.
I've been curious about Christian and had hoped to find some answers in this book. I did get a few answers, but not fully enough to satisfy me. For instance -- in the last book -- Christian was instrumental in saving Jared through his contacts, which surprise his brothers, but no explanation about what in Christians past generated those contacts. There is also mention of his expertise with shooting and swordplay -- but no explanation. I sort of expected to find that he was secretly working for the Home Office or something and that would explain all of those anomalies, but no -- no real explanation for that. The only real revelations were around Jason's death.
So, now I am looking forward to Grant's book. He has intrigued me more than any of them, so it will be interesting to see if the explanations of his past are better than Christians!
April 28, 2020
Exciting!
I was so excited to continue reading the story of Genevieve and Christian after reading the Summer House Party regency romance where their story began, but when I read the summary - I was devastated! I could not figure out why she married that awful Wickburgh instead of Christian. Her whole story slowly unfolds in this tale of intrigue, betrayal, loyalty, and love.
Christian rescues a woman from the river into which she jumped, only to find out she is the one that broke his heart the year before. Genevieve was running from an abusive and loveless marriage and saw no way out but to kill herself. When she discovers she did not die, but instead was rescued by the only man she had ever truly loved, she formed a new plan to escape the horrors of her forced marriage. She tries to flea the grasp of her controlling and abusive husband only to be tormented by him at every turn. Christian sees her peril and is determine to help her despite their history. Wickburgh plays a deadly and vicious game as he seeks to destroy Genevieve permanently. It's quite an exciting tale really as Christian and Genevieve struggle to find a way out of Wickburgh's traps.
I was so excited to continue reading the story of Genevieve and Christian after reading the Summer House Party regency romance where their story began, but when I read the summary - I was devastated! I could not figure out why she married that awful Wickburgh instead of Christian. Her whole story slowly unfolds in this tale of intrigue, betrayal, loyalty, and love.
Christian rescues a woman from the river into which she jumped, only to find out she is the one that broke his heart the year before. Genevieve was running from an abusive and loveless marriage and saw no way out but to kill herself. When she discovers she did not die, but instead was rescued by the only man she had ever truly loved, she formed a new plan to escape the horrors of her forced marriage. She tries to flea the grasp of her controlling and abusive husband only to be tormented by him at every turn. Christian sees her peril and is determine to help her despite their history. Wickburgh plays a deadly and vicious game as he seeks to destroy Genevieve permanently. It's quite an exciting tale really as Christian and Genevieve struggle to find a way out of Wickburgh's traps.
August 17, 2019
Much darker then first 2 in series. Christian had me completely fooled. Still a very good HEA.
February 3, 2020
I liked this story about Christian and Genevieve. It was interesting to find out how they separated and then found each other again.
May 2, 2022
I think I lost a few brain cells reading this book.
March 8, 2017
Love these Amesbury boys. Love how they pull together in this book. Especially Grant and Christian. I was a little disappointed in the kissing scenes while Genevieve was still married...that just bothered me on principle. The characters are endearing, and I am not sure what the next one is about, but I want to go get it...(I'm hoping it's about Grant...he needs a good woman :)
February 16, 2014
***CONTAINS SPOILERS FOR THE STRANGER SHE MARRIED***
I was really looking forward to this book coming out and frankly, I am a little bit disappointed.
This is two out of three of the Rouge Heart series that portrays some sort of sexual act (even if it is just kissing) between a man and a woman married to another man (although in The Stranger She Married it ended up being her husband, but she sure didn't think it was, which I submit is just as bad).
The story line in this was a lot heavier then the other two books. It talks about depression, suicide, and abuse. The book does pull you in and does not let go until the very end. I found it a thrilling story line. I do not believe that a story needs some sort of adulterous scandal to drive it forward though.
I gave this book three stars because I did like it, and the story was written well, but I will probably never read it again.
I was really looking forward to this book coming out and frankly, I am a little bit disappointed.
This is two out of three of the Rouge Heart series that portrays some sort of sexual act (even if it is just kissing) between a man and a woman married to another man (although in The Stranger She Married it ended up being her husband, but she sure didn't think it was, which I submit is just as bad).
The story line in this was a lot heavier then the other two books. It talks about depression, suicide, and abuse. The book does pull you in and does not let go until the very end. I found it a thrilling story line. I do not believe that a story needs some sort of adulterous scandal to drive it forward though.
I gave this book three stars because I did like it, and the story was written well, but I will probably never read it again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2014
This was a fun 3rd book in this series. I hate to say it but I didn't like the cover, it looks like she is biting his neck, but oh well. This was Christian's story the youngest brother he ended up being my favorite character. It was a sad story that ended up well. It was a romance for adults, but this book is clean. Some kissing, there is references to spouse abuse and a death by shooting. But it is all kept light.
October 25, 2013
I've been looking forward to reading this one for a while, so when I heard that it was finally released, I bought it and started reading right away. It was a great story, although probably my least favorite out of the three books in the series... The subject matter was a bit more serious than the previous two books. But still really enjoyed reading it and loved hearing Christian's story! Donna Hatch is a great author ad I flew through this one! Didn't want to stop reading!!
February 25, 2014
A Perfect Secret is the third Regency Romance in The Rogue Hearts Series by Donna Hatch. Christian is the youngest Amesbury brother whose struggles melted my heart. I cheered him on as the perfect hero who rescues the damsel in distress while conquering his personal dragons. This narrative weaves in the rest of the family introduced in previous stories and entices me to want to know more about the fourth and darkest brother. A Perfect Secret is a very satisfying read.
January 16, 2018
I have been reading this series because I was drawn in by the novella from “Summer House Party.” I LOVED the previous two books in the series, however, this one was a let down. The heroine kept repeating the same two thoughts throughout the book. Christian was wonderful, but I did not see what he admired in Jen. I will keep reading the rest.
October 27, 2013
Loved it. I have been waiting a long time for the next installment of this series. The waiting was worth it. Hopefully the wait won't be so long for the next one. I love the new covers for the first two and would love for them to be available for the novels- not just the ebooks.
March 11, 2014
I loved the first (The Stranger She Married) and the second (The Guise of a Gentleman) books in this series and was very excited to get this one. It did not disappoint! Loved it. There is still another brother in this family and I hope he gets a book too. I'll be looking for it.
November 18, 2014
Love this series. It has action, betrayal, romance, an evil man, and a cute hero. Just look at the cover! I could not like her others in this series put it down!
December 9, 2013
Reviewed for THC Reviews
It's been three and a half years since Donna Hatch last released a full-length historical romance, and during that time, I've been eagerly awaiting the next installment in her Rogue Hearts series. Now that I've finally read A Perfect Secret, I can say unequivocally that it was worth the wait. Ms. Hatch definitely has a way with writing sweet romances that are utterly swoon-worthy, and she has a talent for conveying volumes of meaning in a simple look or touch. Every time I read one of her books I hardly miss not having steamy love scenes, because her stories are just so incredibly romantic without them.
Christian is now my favorite Donna Hatch hero, and he has also earned a spot among my all-time favorite heroes overall. He's a sweet beta male with a streak of alpha protectiveness. Christian is a gentle, sensitive artist who feels everything very deeply, so much so that seventeen years later, he's still blaming himself for his brother's death when they were children. While both their families were vacationing in Bath, Christian fell for Genevieve and loved her with a passion he never thought possible. Even though at twenty-three, he was on the young side to be marrying, he felt more than ready, so when Jen threw him over on a whim for another man, it was the ultimate betrayal. A year later, Christian chances to see a woman throwing herself off a bridge into a fast-moving river and doesn't hesitate to rush to her aid. When he pulls her out and realizes it's Jen, he's tempted to throw her back in, but the honorable gentleman in him won't allow it. Instead, he takes her to his family's estate and makes sure she's cared for, but he's understandably still upset with her and treats her rather coldly at first. Still, he can't help wondering what has happened to her in the past year that would make her want to attempt suicide and then beg not to be sent back to her husband. During these early chapters, he's a man who protests a bit too much, almost like he's trying to convince himself that he no longer loves Jen. Of course, slowly but surely the ice around his heart begins to melt and he comes around. Soon he's more than willing to risk scandal and her husband's wrath to keep her safe even without knowing the whole story of what drove her to this desperate place. I love how kind and tender Christian is with Genevieve, never giving her cause to worry or fear him even after all she's been through. He's even thoroughly insulted when she suggests that he wants something from her in exchange for helping her, perhaps to make her his mistress, but he's far too honorable for that. Perfect may have been an insult that his brothers threw at him while they were growing up, but Christian was indeed the perfect hero in every possible way.
Genevieve is a loving, dutiful and brave daughter, who agreed to marry a man she despised to protect her parents from accusations of something her father had done. She knew that if she didn't capitulate to Lord Wickburg's blackmail, her family would be ruined. Her father would most likely have hanged, and her mother, who was already in frail health, might have died as well, or at the very least, have been left a penniless widow. Jen couldn't allow that to happen to her wonderful parents, so she pretended she never loved Christian and entered into a loveless nightmare of a marriage to save them. After a year with her sadistic, abusive husband, and having tried to escape him once before, she finally took drastic measures, attempting suicide. Luckily, it was Christian who was there to save her, but after what she'd done to him, she was understandably frightened that he might send her right back to her husband. She's surprised and deeply touched when he agrees to help her escape by setting her up as a companion to his bluestocking, spinster sister, Rachel, who lives in a remote village on the Scottish border. When Jen suspects that her husband has found her and is playing a cruel cat and mouse game with her, she fears for both Christian and Rachel's lives. She considers running away to keep them safe, but then realizes it would hurt Christian terribly if she left him again and simply disappeared. In the end, she can't go through with it and decides to share her suspicions with him instead which was incredibly refreshing. Genevieve never stopped loving Christian. Memories of their time together and his tenderness helped to get her through the year with her abominable husband. When she sees all the risks he's willingly taking and the lengths he'll go to keep her safe, she only loves him more and knows that she must do everything in her power to escape her husband once and for all so she can be with the man she was meant to marry all along.
A Perfect Secret has a robust cast of secondary characters as well. All the Amesbury siblings were either present or mentioned in some way, and all of them showed unhesitating kindness to Genevieve. It was great to see Cole and Alicia ( The Stranger She Married ) still blissfully happy and expecting their first child. Cole and Jared ( The Guise of a Gentleman ) also band together to help Christian. The final Amesbury brother, Grant, is a brooding and aloof Bow Street Runner who seems to live in a gray area. No one is quite sure which side of the law he's on, as he seems to be willing to do some pretty questionable things for the greater good. In spite of Grant and Christian seeming to have a long-standing, mostly silent, feud over the death of their brother, Grant willingly steps in to help Chris keep Jen safe, even though he doesn't seem to have much use for the fairer sex. It was great to see them, more or less, patching things up by the end, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what kind of woman it takes to bring this intense man to his knees. Their sister, Rachel, is a very intriguing character. She's an amateur botanist who wants to write a book about plants. She's also a firmly on the shelf spinster, but deep down, she longs for the kind of love her parents shared. I have a feeling her hero is going to be James, an old friend of her brothers' who shows up to challenge Christian to a steeplechase. He's a libertine who it's hinted may have previously broken Rachel's heart. As an aside, I was so glad that Rachel didn't tell Jen about their brother's death and why it affected Christian so deeply. Too often in romances, a secondary character shares information about a primary character which in my opinion takes away an opportunity for intimacy between the hero and heroine. Having her tell Jen that maybe someday Christian would share that story with her was the perfect way to handle the situation and an extremely refreshing change of pace. Last but not least, we're also introduced to Connor Jackson, a fellow Bow Street Runner and friend of Grant, who also has ties to Christian. He's played up enough in this book that I can't help wondering if he might become the hero to Margaret, Rachel's twin and the final Amesbury sibling, who is mentioned in the background as also being in a horrible marriage.
Overall, A Perfect Secret was a perfect story. I can't think of a single thing I would have changed. It's a deeply romantic tale of two people who never stopped loving one another and who risked everything to be together again despite the odds against it. All the characters were wonderful, and there's just enough suspense to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. This wonderful book, along with her previous works I've read, have definitely earned Donna Hatch a spot on my favorite authors list. I know that she has stories planned for all the remaining Amesbury siblings, but it was difficult to tell from this book who will be next. I'd venture to guess it's probably going to be either Rachel or Grant. Whichever one it is, I'm eagerly looking forward to the next book, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be another three years before I can read it.:-)
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
It's been three and a half years since Donna Hatch last released a full-length historical romance, and during that time, I've been eagerly awaiting the next installment in her Rogue Hearts series. Now that I've finally read A Perfect Secret, I can say unequivocally that it was worth the wait. Ms. Hatch definitely has a way with writing sweet romances that are utterly swoon-worthy, and she has a talent for conveying volumes of meaning in a simple look or touch. Every time I read one of her books I hardly miss not having steamy love scenes, because her stories are just so incredibly romantic without them.
Christian is now my favorite Donna Hatch hero, and he has also earned a spot among my all-time favorite heroes overall. He's a sweet beta male with a streak of alpha protectiveness. Christian is a gentle, sensitive artist who feels everything very deeply, so much so that seventeen years later, he's still blaming himself for his brother's death when they were children. While both their families were vacationing in Bath, Christian fell for Genevieve and loved her with a passion he never thought possible. Even though at twenty-three, he was on the young side to be marrying, he felt more than ready, so when Jen threw him over on a whim for another man, it was the ultimate betrayal. A year later, Christian chances to see a woman throwing herself off a bridge into a fast-moving river and doesn't hesitate to rush to her aid. When he pulls her out and realizes it's Jen, he's tempted to throw her back in, but the honorable gentleman in him won't allow it. Instead, he takes her to his family's estate and makes sure she's cared for, but he's understandably still upset with her and treats her rather coldly at first. Still, he can't help wondering what has happened to her in the past year that would make her want to attempt suicide and then beg not to be sent back to her husband. During these early chapters, he's a man who protests a bit too much, almost like he's trying to convince himself that he no longer loves Jen. Of course, slowly but surely the ice around his heart begins to melt and he comes around. Soon he's more than willing to risk scandal and her husband's wrath to keep her safe even without knowing the whole story of what drove her to this desperate place. I love how kind and tender Christian is with Genevieve, never giving her cause to worry or fear him even after all she's been through. He's even thoroughly insulted when she suggests that he wants something from her in exchange for helping her, perhaps to make her his mistress, but he's far too honorable for that. Perfect may have been an insult that his brothers threw at him while they were growing up, but Christian was indeed the perfect hero in every possible way.
Genevieve is a loving, dutiful and brave daughter, who agreed to marry a man she despised to protect her parents from accusations of something her father had done. She knew that if she didn't capitulate to Lord Wickburg's blackmail, her family would be ruined. Her father would most likely have hanged, and her mother, who was already in frail health, might have died as well, or at the very least, have been left a penniless widow. Jen couldn't allow that to happen to her wonderful parents, so she pretended she never loved Christian and entered into a loveless nightmare of a marriage to save them. After a year with her sadistic, abusive husband, and having tried to escape him once before, she finally took drastic measures, attempting suicide. Luckily, it was Christian who was there to save her, but after what she'd done to him, she was understandably frightened that he might send her right back to her husband. She's surprised and deeply touched when he agrees to help her escape by setting her up as a companion to his bluestocking, spinster sister, Rachel, who lives in a remote village on the Scottish border. When Jen suspects that her husband has found her and is playing a cruel cat and mouse game with her, she fears for both Christian and Rachel's lives. She considers running away to keep them safe, but then realizes it would hurt Christian terribly if she left him again and simply disappeared. In the end, she can't go through with it and decides to share her suspicions with him instead which was incredibly refreshing. Genevieve never stopped loving Christian. Memories of their time together and his tenderness helped to get her through the year with her abominable husband. When she sees all the risks he's willingly taking and the lengths he'll go to keep her safe, she only loves him more and knows that she must do everything in her power to escape her husband once and for all so she can be with the man she was meant to marry all along.
A Perfect Secret has a robust cast of secondary characters as well. All the Amesbury siblings were either present or mentioned in some way, and all of them showed unhesitating kindness to Genevieve. It was great to see Cole and Alicia ( The Stranger She Married ) still blissfully happy and expecting their first child. Cole and Jared ( The Guise of a Gentleman ) also band together to help Christian. The final Amesbury brother, Grant, is a brooding and aloof Bow Street Runner who seems to live in a gray area. No one is quite sure which side of the law he's on, as he seems to be willing to do some pretty questionable things for the greater good. In spite of Grant and Christian seeming to have a long-standing, mostly silent, feud over the death of their brother, Grant willingly steps in to help Chris keep Jen safe, even though he doesn't seem to have much use for the fairer sex. It was great to see them, more or less, patching things up by the end, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what kind of woman it takes to bring this intense man to his knees. Their sister, Rachel, is a very intriguing character. She's an amateur botanist who wants to write a book about plants. She's also a firmly on the shelf spinster, but deep down, she longs for the kind of love her parents shared. I have a feeling her hero is going to be James, an old friend of her brothers' who shows up to challenge Christian to a steeplechase. He's a libertine who it's hinted may have previously broken Rachel's heart. As an aside, I was so glad that Rachel didn't tell Jen about their brother's death and why it affected Christian so deeply. Too often in romances, a secondary character shares information about a primary character which in my opinion takes away an opportunity for intimacy between the hero and heroine. Having her tell Jen that maybe someday Christian would share that story with her was the perfect way to handle the situation and an extremely refreshing change of pace. Last but not least, we're also introduced to Connor Jackson, a fellow Bow Street Runner and friend of Grant, who also has ties to Christian. He's played up enough in this book that I can't help wondering if he might become the hero to Margaret, Rachel's twin and the final Amesbury sibling, who is mentioned in the background as also being in a horrible marriage.
Overall, A Perfect Secret was a perfect story. I can't think of a single thing I would have changed. It's a deeply romantic tale of two people who never stopped loving one another and who risked everything to be together again despite the odds against it. All the characters were wonderful, and there's just enough suspense to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. This wonderful book, along with her previous works I've read, have definitely earned Donna Hatch a spot on my favorite authors list. I know that she has stories planned for all the remaining Amesbury siblings, but it was difficult to tell from this book who will be next. I'd venture to guess it's probably going to be either Rachel or Grant. Whichever one it is, I'm eagerly looking forward to the next book, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it won't be another three years before I can read it.:-)
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2018
Rounding up from 3.5 stars.
If you want to read the sweet part of Christian and Genevieve's love story you have to read the prequel novella A Perfect Match in the book Summer House Party (Timeless Regency Collection). This book starts as they are about to be officially engaged only to have all their plans ruined by the evil Lord Wickburgh. The whole of the book until the very end is the angst and horror of getting away from him. So, even though we get a HEA ending, not much of the story is about sweet relationships and happiness. There is a lot of angst and danger.
I liked that the brothers began to have more positive relationships and trust in each other. And I liked meeting one of their sisters and getting to know her a little. At a couple points in the book I thought I was going to want to slap Genevieve but she turned it around and made a good decision instead of being stupid so I was glad that she started to learn how to be smart. And Christian also set aside his pride to get the help he needed to save Genevieve. I also liked that though the brothers were fully involved in saving her, she was not a helpless female but also worked to save herself even though she couldn't have done it all by herself. I like strong female characters.
As is the case with others of this author's books I dislike that they spend so much time talking about lustful thoughts and desires. Let a story be swoony without sexualizing it. That is my biggest complaint about her books. The stories are good but she wants the books to be on the edgy side of clean. So there is no sex in it but there is a lot of innuendo and lust both talked and thought about.
I did not like the overall cover on this one as Christian looks NOTHING like I envisioned. I did like the scenic part of the cover though. And the other weird thing I have no explanation for. I borrowed this from the library and maybe the library did this or maybe the printer? I don't know but the book was cut weird. The front cover is actually missing the last letter in the title because it is cut off. The top and side are cut on a slant so the print appears to be slanting up the page and there is no margin on the edge. The print goes right to the edge. I've never seen a book cut like this before. It was a little annoying though still readable.
Sex: no, but innuendo, lust, and passionate kisses.
Language: It refers to comments about a "person's heritage" but doesn't actually use the word. Or the person "curses" but the book doesn't state the curse word.
Violence: Lots. Fists, knives, guns, attempted strangulation, attempted suicide, disemboweled pet, kidnapping, references to husband's past physical and emotionally abusive behavior.
If you want to read the sweet part of Christian and Genevieve's love story you have to read the prequel novella A Perfect Match in the book Summer House Party (Timeless Regency Collection). This book starts as they are about to be officially engaged only to have all their plans ruined by the evil Lord Wickburgh. The whole of the book until the very end is the angst and horror of getting away from him. So, even though we get a HEA ending, not much of the story is about sweet relationships and happiness. There is a lot of angst and danger.
I liked that the brothers began to have more positive relationships and trust in each other. And I liked meeting one of their sisters and getting to know her a little. At a couple points in the book I thought I was going to want to slap Genevieve but she turned it around and made a good decision instead of being stupid so I was glad that she started to learn how to be smart. And Christian also set aside his pride to get the help he needed to save Genevieve. I also liked that though the brothers were fully involved in saving her, she was not a helpless female but also worked to save herself even though she couldn't have done it all by herself. I like strong female characters.
As is the case with others of this author's books I dislike that they spend so much time talking about lustful thoughts and desires. Let a story be swoony without sexualizing it. That is my biggest complaint about her books. The stories are good but she wants the books to be on the edgy side of clean. So there is no sex in it but there is a lot of innuendo and lust both talked and thought about.
I did not like the overall cover on this one as Christian looks NOTHING like I envisioned. I did like the scenic part of the cover though. And the other weird thing I have no explanation for. I borrowed this from the library and maybe the library did this or maybe the printer? I don't know but the book was cut weird. The front cover is actually missing the last letter in the title because it is cut off. The top and side are cut on a slant so the print appears to be slanting up the page and there is no margin on the edge. The print goes right to the edge. I've never seen a book cut like this before. It was a little annoying though still readable.
Sex: no, but innuendo, lust, and passionate kisses.
Language: It refers to comments about a "person's heritage" but doesn't actually use the word. Or the person "curses" but the book doesn't state the curse word.
Violence: Lots. Fists, knives, guns, attempted strangulation, attempted suicide, disemboweled pet, kidnapping, references to husband's past physical and emotionally abusive behavior.
May 15, 2017
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
Desperate to protect her father from trial and death, Genevieve breaks off her engagement with Christian Amesbury and marries a blackmailer. After a year of marriage, she flees her husband's violent domination only to have fate bring her back to Christian. Just when she thinks she's started a new life of safety and solitude, her husband tracks her down, stalks her, and threatens everyone she loves.
Still brokenhearted over Genevieve's betrayal a year ago, Christian can't believe she's come back into his life--and worse, that she's done it on the anniversary of his brother's death, a death that haunts him. Though tempted to throw her back into the river where he found her, he can't leave her at the mercy of the terrifying man she married.
When her husband torments Genevieve and puts the Amesbury family in danger, Christian will do anything to protect those he loves...anything except give Genevieve another chance to break his heart.
MY TAKE
Another great offering by Hatch in the Amesbury family. I love that as we meet new characters we also get to revisit the siblings and their families again. I especially love how the brothers who've had some challenges in the past, slowly come together and put aside issues from their childhoods.
Genevieve's situation was a horrible one to be put in. I appreciate her willingness to sacrifice herself for her family's well being--her father's reputation and all their futures. My heart ached for Christian's pain, both the guilt he carried about the death of one of his brothers and the Genevieve's "betrayal." It was fun to meet the sister Rachel and see the set up for a future book about her.
4 1/2 stars
***spoiler***
The one thing that really troubled me that Genevieve's evil, controlling husband was able to keep her locked up with so little consequence to his reputation. And where the heck was Genevieve's father in all this? I lost so much respect for him that he seemed to let his daughter make this sacrifice and then did nothing to make sure she was okay.
Desperate to protect her father from trial and death, Genevieve breaks off her engagement with Christian Amesbury and marries a blackmailer. After a year of marriage, she flees her husband's violent domination only to have fate bring her back to Christian. Just when she thinks she's started a new life of safety and solitude, her husband tracks her down, stalks her, and threatens everyone she loves.
Still brokenhearted over Genevieve's betrayal a year ago, Christian can't believe she's come back into his life--and worse, that she's done it on the anniversary of his brother's death, a death that haunts him. Though tempted to throw her back into the river where he found her, he can't leave her at the mercy of the terrifying man she married.
When her husband torments Genevieve and puts the Amesbury family in danger, Christian will do anything to protect those he loves...anything except give Genevieve another chance to break his heart.
MY TAKE
Another great offering by Hatch in the Amesbury family. I love that as we meet new characters we also get to revisit the siblings and their families again. I especially love how the brothers who've had some challenges in the past, slowly come together and put aside issues from their childhoods.
Genevieve's situation was a horrible one to be put in. I appreciate her willingness to sacrifice herself for her family's well being--her father's reputation and all their futures. My heart ached for Christian's pain, both the guilt he carried about the death of one of his brothers and the Genevieve's "betrayal." It was fun to meet the sister Rachel and see the set up for a future book about her.
4 1/2 stars
***spoiler***
The one thing that really troubled me that Genevieve's evil, controlling husband was able to keep her locked up with so little consequence to his reputation. And where the heck was Genevieve's father in all this? I lost so much respect for him that he seemed to let his daughter make this sacrifice and then did nothing to make sure she was okay.
November 1, 2020
"Perfectly perfect Christian" turns out to be much different from how I characterized him when reading the first two books of this series. I expected Christian Amesbury to have honor, compassion, artistic talent, self control, protective instincts and bravery. But also to embody vulnerability, commitment to self-sacrifice for family and loved ones, somewhat reckless risk-taking, and stubbornness in bearing guilt for a brother's death do seem to make him sort of perfect hero material. No wonder he dives into the river to save a woman attempting suicide.
Unfortunately that woman turns out to be Genevieve who broke Christian's heart a year past to marry a man of higher status. But unbeknownst to Christian, Genevieve had to marry the vile earl lest he reveal a career-ending secret about her father. Genevieve lives in constant fear of her husband, and still in love with Christian who vows to help her but not risk his heart to her again. So can Christian and his family keep her hidden from an earl scouring the countryside for his missing wife? Or, will the earl believe she drowned and declare her dead? What happens if or when her husband tracks her down?
The best aspect of this book (similar to the first two) involves how the whole Amesbury family comes together for the big showdown. I also like the chapter in which Christian opens himself fully to share the burden of his guilt with Genevieve. Well paced plot makes this an easy, entertaining read.
I recommend this book to historical romance readers who enjoy second chance at lost love stories with insane villains, swoon worthy kisses, and perfectly imperfect heroes.
Unfortunately that woman turns out to be Genevieve who broke Christian's heart a year past to marry a man of higher status. But unbeknownst to Christian, Genevieve had to marry the vile earl lest he reveal a career-ending secret about her father. Genevieve lives in constant fear of her husband, and still in love with Christian who vows to help her but not risk his heart to her again. So can Christian and his family keep her hidden from an earl scouring the countryside for his missing wife? Or, will the earl believe she drowned and declare her dead? What happens if or when her husband tracks her down?
The best aspect of this book (similar to the first two) involves how the whole Amesbury family comes together for the big showdown. I also like the chapter in which Christian opens himself fully to share the burden of his guilt with Genevieve. Well paced plot makes this an easy, entertaining read.
I recommend this book to historical romance readers who enjoy second chance at lost love stories with insane villains, swoon worthy kisses, and perfectly imperfect heroes.
April 15, 2019
At the end of book 2 I was curious about Christian who is the youngest son of the Amebury family. I wanted to understand him more so I was excited the very next book was about him.
The story follows Genevieve and Christian. The two had been in love, but in order to save her father Genevieve marries another. This breaks Christian's heart of course. A year goes by and Genevieve can no longer handle her husband's violent domination and evil ways, so she escapes. Her escape lands her back to Christian who saves her.
This book made me sad. I felt so bad for Genevieve!! I am so mad at her father!! Yes he had been young and dumb but now he has doomed her. That husband needs to be tossed in jail or tossed on an island and live in misery. Terrible man.
I adored Christian and I think he is one of my favorite brothers. Even though Genevieve broke his heart he still helped her. He has such a good guy who had a rough time at it especially since he has so much guilt over what happened to his brothers years previous.
Christian's sister Rachel is adorable. I would love to be her friend! I hope she gets a story!
In all honesty, I had no real issues with the story. The ending did happen pretty quickly, but I think it worked well though.
This did well as a standalone, so that is a bonus point for sure.
Overall, I really liked this book and the characters. My favorite of the series so far. 5 stars!
The story follows Genevieve and Christian. The two had been in love, but in order to save her father Genevieve marries another. This breaks Christian's heart of course. A year goes by and Genevieve can no longer handle her husband's violent domination and evil ways, so she escapes. Her escape lands her back to Christian who saves her.
This book made me sad. I felt so bad for Genevieve!! I am so mad at her father!! Yes he had been young and dumb but now he has doomed her. That husband needs to be tossed in jail or tossed on an island and live in misery. Terrible man.
I adored Christian and I think he is one of my favorite brothers. Even though Genevieve broke his heart he still helped her. He has such a good guy who had a rough time at it especially since he has so much guilt over what happened to his brothers years previous.
Christian's sister Rachel is adorable. I would love to be her friend! I hope she gets a story!
In all honesty, I had no real issues with the story. The ending did happen pretty quickly, but I think it worked well though.
This did well as a standalone, so that is a bonus point for sure.
Overall, I really liked this book and the characters. My favorite of the series so far. 5 stars!
November 8, 2019
The reviews made me think this book wouldn't be so great, but after loving The Guise of a Gentleman so much I just had to find out what happened to Christian. I actually liked it a lot more than I thought. I was pretty nervous to see that domestic abuse was the main conflict/villain/everything bad, but I appreciated that the author didn't give too many details. Also I felt like the emotions of the main characters were believable but not too depressing- although I hated when Christian got drunk. WHAT? That was a huge disappointment and didn't fit his character at all. There wasn't a whole lot of great chemistry between Genevieve and Christian (granted they were working through the craziest, saddest background ever) but it was sufficient. My favorite part was the brothers swooping in to join the adventures and save the day at the end. I just love their hilarious comments to each other and the great support they were to their baby brother when he needed them!
May 6, 2021
This is another book in the Rogue Heart Series #3. This book is about another brother of Jared and Cole, Christian Amesbury, he is the youngest brother and I loved his character and even though he was different to his brothers, he still strived to be like them. He took risks and chances and was an overall great character. I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one. This was romantic, and clean read.
Genevieve breaks off her engagement to Christian Amesbury to protect her parents, she marries the man who is blackmailing her family. After a year of marriage she runs from her husband and fate brings her back to Christian. When her husband tracks her down, Christian takes her to safety with his sister near the Scottish border, just when she think’s he won’t find her, her husband tracks her down again and threatens everyone she loves.
Genevieve breaks off her engagement to Christian Amesbury to protect her parents, she marries the man who is blackmailing her family. After a year of marriage she runs from her husband and fate brings her back to Christian. When her husband tracks her down, Christian takes her to safety with his sister near the Scottish border, just when she think’s he won’t find her, her husband tracks her down again and threatens everyone she loves.
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