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Landry Family #5
Swink
I’m that guy.
Camilla Landry rustles against me, the silky fabric of her overpriced lingerie slipping along my bruised rib. The porcelain perfection of her skin is even more innocent against the colorful ink dotting my own. It’s demure meets damaged, pampered meets punctured.
So, yeah, it’s obvious I’m that guy. Dominic Hughes. Her attempt at rebellion. Her bid to see what the other side of the tracks feel like. I’m okay with being used because, from where I’m sitting, the other side of the tracks have never looked so good.
Camilla Landry rustles against me, the silky fabric of her overpriced lingerie slipping along my bruised rib. The porcelain perfection of her skin is even more innocent against the colorful ink dotting my own. It’s demure meets damaged, pampered meets punctured.
So, yeah, it’s obvious I’m that guy. Dominic Hughes. Her attempt at rebellion. Her bid to see what the other side of the tracks feel like. I’m okay with being used because, from where I’m sitting, the other side of the tracks have never looked so good.
243 pages, ebook
Published July 19, 2017
About the author
Adriana Locke
59 books13.3k followersUSA Today Bestselling author, Adriana Locke, writes contemporary romances about the two things she knows best—big families and small towns. Her stories are about ordinary people finding extraordinary love with the perfect combination of heart, heat, and humor.
She loves connecting with readers, fall weather, football, reading alpha heroes, everything pumpkin, and pretending to garden.
Hailing from a tiny town in the Midwest, Adriana spends her free time with her high school sweetheart (who she married over twenty-five years ago) and their four sons (who truly are her best work). Her kitchen may be a perpetual disaster, and if all else fails, there is always pizza.
Learn more at adrianalocke.com.
She loves connecting with readers, fall weather, football, reading alpha heroes, everything pumpkin, and pretending to garden.
Hailing from a tiny town in the Midwest, Adriana spends her free time with her high school sweetheart (who she married over twenty-five years ago) and their four sons (who truly are her best work). Her kitchen may be a perpetual disaster, and if all else fails, there is always pizza.
Learn more at adrianalocke.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 665 reviews
August 14, 2017
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+! Swink (stand-alone). Impossible romance with good girl heiress & her tatted bad boy secret lover!
Swink (stand-alone) opens up a year into a secret affair between heiress and charity worker Camilla Jane Landry, Cam aka Swink and A/C repairman and prize fighter Dominic Hughes, Dom.
They are at a fork in the road in their relationship; The sex is phenomenal and both are feeling something more, but the odds are stacked against them. Follow them through tests and set-backs and through the ultimate threat when Cam’s brothers demand to meet Dom.
Seven words to describe Dominic Hughes, Dom: Patient, fair, private, charming, commanding, conflicted and non-committal.
Seven words to describe Camilla Jane Landry, Cam aka Swink: Naïve, spoiled, easy-going, caring, secretive, romantic and stubborn.
Swink, told from dual POVs, is a sexy and heartfelt good girl meets tatted rebel from the wrong side of the tracks who might just be willing to do anything to be good enough for her. Story ends on a high with promises of more Dom and Cam in next-coming books following the Landry siblings.
***
Hero: ★★★★★
Heroine: ★★★★
Plot: ★★★★1/2
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★1/2
Sex scenes: ★★★★★
Story ending: ★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
Angst: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Darkness: | LOW FOCUS |
Humor: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Kink: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | LOW FOCUS |
August 20, 2017
Swink is live on Amazon and in Kindle Unlimited.
http://amzn.to/2uePDyM
http://amzn.to/2uePDyM
August 17, 2017
1.5 Stars
The was disappointing.
Review later.
The was disappointing.
Review later.
July 20, 2017
First off, I should state that I am obsessed with this book. O.B.S.E.S.S.E.D! I can't stop thinking about it. I want to force it on every single person I know. I feel giddy over just the thought of Dominic and Camilla. I want to jump on my couch, Tom Cruise style, and declare my love for it to the world. I. AM. THAT. OBSESSED.
It's undoubtedly one of my most FAVORITE reads of 2017! In my TOP 5(ish) with Before I Ever Met You, Egomaniac, Good Boy, Devil You Know, and The Wall of Winnipeg and Me!! It's a book I'll recommend over and over and over again because I just love the fuck out of it. I mean, we have a rich, well-to-do, good girl falling for the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks, and that dynamic, that dichotomy between Dominic and Camilla set my soul on fire.
There such a realness to this couple. A vibrant, tangible, compelling, addicting kind of magic that drew me to these characters. I felt them bone deep in a way that words can't express. Everything about this story felt perfect to me. From the way the author wrote the dialogue, to the natural progression of Cam and Dom's relationship, to the way Cam worked to break down Dom's walls, to the way Cam made herself vulnerable to Dom in a way that had my chest aching and my belly tightening, it was evocative, wholly heart stopping. I could feel my emotions climbing and expanding with each word. And those FEELS owned me in a way I can't truly describe. I'm enamored with Swink. Smitten with the story as a whole. And I am flat out IN LOVE with Landry family.
And let me say, before I go on. Swink is a COMPLETE standalone. Sure, it's book five in a series of interconnected stand-alones, and yes, obviously, you are going to see previous couples in this novel, but it reads like a total standalone and you will not be confused at all if you decided to start from here. I've read 4 out of the 5 books (still gotta read Swear) and this, SWINK, is by far MY FAVORITE BOOK IN THE SERIES.
It felt like it was written for me. It's an 'Angie' read that has absolutely everything I love in a romance novel. From the first chapter I was slayed. I felt riveted and invested in Dom and was pained by the way he fought his primal need for Camilla. I felt my heart ache with the way Camilla needed Dom to want her in the same way she wanted him. All that angst, those tumultuously raw feelings, drew me in and claimed me. I couldn't stop reading, you guys. I just COULD. NOT. STOP. READING. And my God, I didn't want it to end. I was reading at a ridiculous pace and I knew I needed to slow myself down, to prolong the intense feelings I was having, but I didn't know how. It was all-consuming. I was frenzied by these two, and those feelings are what I look in a great book. They are what makes a reading experience memorable for me.
To say that Adriana Locke nailed Swink would be an understatement. She more than nailed the feels in this story, bringing this bad boy meets good girl romance to life in an explosive way. I truly can't say enough good things. It's a MUST READ.
Camilla Landry has everything a girl could want. Four overly protective brothers who love her to death, a twin sister she's super close with, and a mom and dad who would sacrifice everything for her! On top of that, she has enough money that she never has to work a day in her life. Camilla's world is plush and lush, full of good things.
And then we have Dominic Hughes. A man who is the opposite. He's worked for everything in his life. Nothings come easy or free for Dom. From a troubled childhood, to an adulthood that's been less than kind, he's struggled to scrape by, and the world's been anything but a fairytale.
Camilla and Dom met when he came over to fix her air conditioner and from that day on they couldn't stay away from each other. But Dom and Cam are from two completely different worlds and Dom knows he could never truly be what Camilla needs, could never truly give her what she deserves. So for awhile it's all about hooking up. Dom is under the impression that he's Cam's attempt at rebellion, but that changes when their hearts get involved.
The romance is utterly intoxicating, you guys. Dom has so many reservations and fears when it comes to being with Camilla. It broke my heart. Everything about this romance pulled at my heart strings. I can't tell you how much I loved Dom. I swear, I could go on and on and on and on. But I won't. Hahahaha. I'll just say this, YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK. It's everything. So sweet and heartfelt and wonderful and I absolutely loved every second of reading. I highly recommend it and I really hope you give it a go. It's more than five star fabulous. It's epic.
It's undoubtedly one of my most FAVORITE reads of 2017! In my TOP 5(ish) with Before I Ever Met You, Egomaniac, Good Boy, Devil You Know, and The Wall of Winnipeg and Me!! It's a book I'll recommend over and over and over again because I just love the fuck out of it. I mean, we have a rich, well-to-do, good girl falling for the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks, and that dynamic, that dichotomy between Dominic and Camilla set my soul on fire.
There such a realness to this couple. A vibrant, tangible, compelling, addicting kind of magic that drew me to these characters. I felt them bone deep in a way that words can't express. Everything about this story felt perfect to me. From the way the author wrote the dialogue, to the natural progression of Cam and Dom's relationship, to the way Cam worked to break down Dom's walls, to the way Cam made herself vulnerable to Dom in a way that had my chest aching and my belly tightening, it was evocative, wholly heart stopping. I could feel my emotions climbing and expanding with each word. And those FEELS owned me in a way I can't truly describe. I'm enamored with Swink. Smitten with the story as a whole. And I am flat out IN LOVE with Landry family.
And let me say, before I go on. Swink is a COMPLETE standalone. Sure, it's book five in a series of interconnected stand-alones, and yes, obviously, you are going to see previous couples in this novel, but it reads like a total standalone and you will not be confused at all if you decided to start from here. I've read 4 out of the 5 books (still gotta read Swear) and this, SWINK, is by far MY FAVORITE BOOK IN THE SERIES.
It felt like it was written for me. It's an 'Angie' read that has absolutely everything I love in a romance novel. From the first chapter I was slayed. I felt riveted and invested in Dom and was pained by the way he fought his primal need for Camilla. I felt my heart ache with the way Camilla needed Dom to want her in the same way she wanted him. All that angst, those tumultuously raw feelings, drew me in and claimed me. I couldn't stop reading, you guys. I just COULD. NOT. STOP. READING. And my God, I didn't want it to end. I was reading at a ridiculous pace and I knew I needed to slow myself down, to prolong the intense feelings I was having, but I didn't know how. It was all-consuming. I was frenzied by these two, and those feelings are what I look in a great book. They are what makes a reading experience memorable for me.
To say that Adriana Locke nailed Swink would be an understatement. She more than nailed the feels in this story, bringing this bad boy meets good girl romance to life in an explosive way. I truly can't say enough good things. It's a MUST READ.
Camilla Landry has everything a girl could want. Four overly protective brothers who love her to death, a twin sister she's super close with, and a mom and dad who would sacrifice everything for her! On top of that, she has enough money that she never has to work a day in her life. Camilla's world is plush and lush, full of good things.
And then we have Dominic Hughes. A man who is the opposite. He's worked for everything in his life. Nothings come easy or free for Dom. From a troubled childhood, to an adulthood that's been less than kind, he's struggled to scrape by, and the world's been anything but a fairytale.
Camilla and Dom met when he came over to fix her air conditioner and from that day on they couldn't stay away from each other. But Dom and Cam are from two completely different worlds and Dom knows he could never truly be what Camilla needs, could never truly give her what she deserves. So for awhile it's all about hooking up. Dom is under the impression that he's Cam's attempt at rebellion, but that changes when their hearts get involved.
The romance is utterly intoxicating, you guys. Dom has so many reservations and fears when it comes to being with Camilla. It broke my heart. Everything about this romance pulled at my heart strings. I can't tell you how much I loved Dom. I swear, I could go on and on and on and on. But I won't. Hahahaha. I'll just say this, YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK. It's everything. So sweet and heartfelt and wonderful and I absolutely loved every second of reading. I highly recommend it and I really hope you give it a go. It's more than five star fabulous. It's epic.
July 20, 2017
NOW LIVE!
Amazon Kindle * Aamzon Paperback
Who doesn't love a good bad boy/good girl story? The second I saw this beauty on my Kindle I dropped everything and dove right into the story. I couldn't wait to see what bad boy Cam was hooking up with. And of course I was excited for some overprotective brother badassness scenes.
Cam and Dom couldn't be more opposite, but that's what made them so perfect together. Their chemistry was off the charts in a "I don't want to want you, but I do" kind of way. It really made the sexual tension between them practically jump off of these pages and had me enthralled by them. Cam was kind of lost in life and just drifting through, doing what her family expected of her, but with Dom he showed her that it was okay to be her own person. I really liked how he didn't expect things from her like her family did. Honestly I was a little scared that she would be the spoiled princess that her family thought she was but that definitely wasn't the case.
Dom was amazing as well, even during the times I wanted to smack him and yell at him to stop being so closed minded. He was stuck in this thought that he wasn't good enough for Cam, but I loved seeing her show him that he was more than enough. They had a give-and-take type of relationship and it was brilliant how they worked so well together.
Bottom line, read this series if you know what's good for you. Each book will have you falling in love over and over again. This may be the last in the Landry Family series, which makes me a little sad, but there is more to come from these characters and I can't wait to get my hands on the spin-off series.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon Kindle * Aamzon Paperback
Who doesn't love a good bad boy/good girl story? The second I saw this beauty on my Kindle I dropped everything and dove right into the story. I couldn't wait to see what bad boy Cam was hooking up with. And of course I was excited for some overprotective brother badassness scenes.
Cam and Dom couldn't be more opposite, but that's what made them so perfect together. Their chemistry was off the charts in a "I don't want to want you, but I do" kind of way. It really made the sexual tension between them practically jump off of these pages and had me enthralled by them. Cam was kind of lost in life and just drifting through, doing what her family expected of her, but with Dom he showed her that it was okay to be her own person. I really liked how he didn't expect things from her like her family did. Honestly I was a little scared that she would be the spoiled princess that her family thought she was but that definitely wasn't the case.
Dom was amazing as well, even during the times I wanted to smack him and yell at him to stop being so closed minded. He was stuck in this thought that he wasn't good enough for Cam, but I loved seeing her show him that he was more than enough. They had a give-and-take type of relationship and it was brilliant how they worked so well together.
Bottom line, read this series if you know what's good for you. Each book will have you falling in love over and over again. This may be the last in the Landry Family series, which makes me a little sad, but there is more to come from these characters and I can't wait to get my hands on the spin-off series.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
July 23, 2017
***Well, here my review is, folks! Beware, I end in a mic drop so... Sorry***
You know how a lot of times when reading a story, there can be that lull between say, 50-70%? You know the one, after the characters finally get together but before the actual drama starts in the form of a climax. Sort of stuck in a lull, the status quo, not rocking the boat and coasting along... Well, to be frank, when reading Swink, I felt like I was stuck in this blank space for the entire book. That may sound harsh, and I'm not trying to be, I'm just trying to portray my thoughts as honestly and bluntly as I can.
As you can see, absolutely everyone, save for basically myself, Wil and 3 or 4 other reviewers has been head over heels in love with this book. Some of you will look at my review and think I'm too critical or have my head up my butt or am just nasty. You know what? Good for you. Think what you wish. If you disagree with me, all the power to you! But I for one was disappointed in this book and let me tell you why.
First off, this relationship has been hinted at since Lincoln's book (book 2, for those of you who don't know. Cam's story is book 5), so this is really not a new idea. With that being said, I expected this story may run parallel with the others or pick up fairly early on in their relationship, but NOPE. It starts when they had already been dating for ten months. Okay...? Where's the fun in that? A romance book for me needs to have that meet cute, those initial butterflies and the warm fuzzy feeling, stupid smiles, staying up late, thinking about the other person, etc. That to me is the best part of the book, and in Swink, it was completely skipped over. But it's not even like we got flashbacks or memories to relive those moments, it just wasn't mentioned. Zip. Nada. Zilch. So this immediately put me off a bit, but don't worry, I'm flexible, I'll give it the benefit of the doubt. But then as I kept reading, nothing happened. And I couldn't really understand how I was reading so many pages and going through the chapters but there was nothing happening. Now this brings me to my next point.
Readers love seeing cameos from their favourite characters in previous stories. I'm personally not this type of reader. Anyways, to me this didn't feel like a Camilla and Dominic story. This felt like a Landry Family Special starring Barrett and Alison and Huxley and Lincoln and Danielle and Ryan and Graham and Mallory and Ford and Ellie and Sienna, with side appearances from Camilla and Dominic and Nate. *deep breath, that was a lot*. I kid you not, I was 30% into this book, and the ONLY thing that had happened so far was announcements (babies and marriages all around, oh the joy) from the other characters as it related to their own stories, and a family dinner at the Farm. There wasn't romance, there wasn't character development between the main couple, and there sure as hell wasn't any plot. I didn't read this book because I wanted to catch up with the other siblings, I read this because I wanted to see Camilla's love story, and I felt cheated out of that.
Also, this is a fighter book? News to me. It's barely mentioned. Dom has one fight, it's hardly a big part of the story and he can just walk away from it so easily? A fighter is who you are as a person, not just a hobby. And I for one didn't get the whole alpha vibe on top of that, but I digress.
After I finished this book, I made a point form list of everything that I could think of that happened, and sent it to a fellow blogger who also read Swink. *Note* we both read this book but didn't discuss thoughts or details until we had both finished, as to not sway any opinions, and you know what? We felt the same. So I sent her this point form list, it had, I don't know, ten to twelve or so items on it? From this list, which I included EVERYTHING I could think of (seriously, one of the points was that Dom has a bubble bath), six, I repeat, SIX (half of twelve) had to do with the MCs. So there's already half of the story down the drain with other sibling stuff that I didn't care about. From those six, again,
-Dom had a bubble bath,
-they bang, and
-something about money, all made this list.
I know, I probably sound like an ass right now but I don't really care. Frankly, I love Adriana. I've enjoyed the Landry books that I've read, The Perception was one of my top favourite books of 2016, and I never thought that I'd get to this place with her, but I'm so disappointed in this book.
Authors say that they must be current to stay on the radar of readers, but I'd rather have you put in enough time and effort to produce a complete story instead of a mediocre, rushed one. And in the same note, can you not take a little more time, come up with a solid story, and let readers discover another author in the mean time they might enjoy? It's not a competition, it's not an either or. People love to compare coffee and books, so here it goes. You can get a book from a different author, just as easily as you can get a coffee from a different store. It doesn't mean it changes your preference or favourites, it just means you're *gasp* getting something different that day.
I do not see this as a story. There was no plot, there was minimal romance (and even what was there was hardly believable --- the hero couldn't decide how he felt about the heroine. I'm sorry, you've been together for TEN MONTHS, figure it out, mkay?), and there was plenty of extra shit that I just didn't care about.
So I guess what I'm getting at is:
I read this book.
I wasn't a fan.
This is the last I going to think about it.
I'm going to wipe my hands of it now that I've said what I thought.
I did promise an *honest* review, after all.
So I'm sorry if this seems to mean for anyone or if you think of me as the grinch who stole Christmas because Dom and Camilla were just so swoonworthy in your eyes. I'd have to politely, but firmly, disagree with you.
Adios.
-drops mic-
You know how a lot of times when reading a story, there can be that lull between say, 50-70%? You know the one, after the characters finally get together but before the actual drama starts in the form of a climax. Sort of stuck in a lull, the status quo, not rocking the boat and coasting along... Well, to be frank, when reading Swink, I felt like I was stuck in this blank space for the entire book. That may sound harsh, and I'm not trying to be, I'm just trying to portray my thoughts as honestly and bluntly as I can.
As you can see, absolutely everyone, save for basically myself, Wil and 3 or 4 other reviewers has been head over heels in love with this book. Some of you will look at my review and think I'm too critical or have my head up my butt or am just nasty. You know what? Good for you. Think what you wish. If you disagree with me, all the power to you! But I for one was disappointed in this book and let me tell you why.
First off, this relationship has been hinted at since Lincoln's book (book 2, for those of you who don't know. Cam's story is book 5), so this is really not a new idea. With that being said, I expected this story may run parallel with the others or pick up fairly early on in their relationship, but NOPE. It starts when they had already been dating for ten months. Okay...? Where's the fun in that? A romance book for me needs to have that meet cute, those initial butterflies and the warm fuzzy feeling, stupid smiles, staying up late, thinking about the other person, etc. That to me is the best part of the book, and in Swink, it was completely skipped over. But it's not even like we got flashbacks or memories to relive those moments, it just wasn't mentioned. Zip. Nada. Zilch. So this immediately put me off a bit, but don't worry, I'm flexible, I'll give it the benefit of the doubt. But then as I kept reading, nothing happened. And I couldn't really understand how I was reading so many pages and going through the chapters but there was nothing happening. Now this brings me to my next point.
Readers love seeing cameos from their favourite characters in previous stories. I'm personally not this type of reader. Anyways, to me this didn't feel like a Camilla and Dominic story. This felt like a Landry Family Special starring Barrett and Alison and Huxley and Lincoln and Danielle and Ryan and Graham and Mallory and Ford and Ellie and Sienna, with side appearances from Camilla and Dominic and Nate. *deep breath, that was a lot*. I kid you not, I was 30% into this book, and the ONLY thing that had happened so far was announcements (babies and marriages all around, oh the joy) from the other characters as it related to their own stories, and a family dinner at the Farm. There wasn't romance, there wasn't character development between the main couple, and there sure as hell wasn't any plot. I didn't read this book because I wanted to catch up with the other siblings, I read this because I wanted to see Camilla's love story, and I felt cheated out of that.
Also, this is a fighter book? News to me. It's barely mentioned. Dom has one fight, it's hardly a big part of the story and he can just walk away from it so easily? A fighter is who you are as a person, not just a hobby. And I for one didn't get the whole alpha vibe on top of that, but I digress.
After I finished this book, I made a point form list of everything that I could think of that happened, and sent it to a fellow blogger who also read Swink. *Note* we both read this book but didn't discuss thoughts or details until we had both finished, as to not sway any opinions, and you know what? We felt the same. So I sent her this point form list, it had, I don't know, ten to twelve or so items on it? From this list, which I included EVERYTHING I could think of (seriously, one of the points was that Dom has a bubble bath), six, I repeat, SIX (half of twelve) had to do with the MCs. So there's already half of the story down the drain with other sibling stuff that I didn't care about. From those six, again,
-Dom had a bubble bath,
-they bang, and
-something about money, all made this list.
I know, I probably sound like an ass right now but I don't really care. Frankly, I love Adriana. I've enjoyed the Landry books that I've read, The Perception was one of my top favourite books of 2016, and I never thought that I'd get to this place with her, but I'm so disappointed in this book.
Authors say that they must be current to stay on the radar of readers, but I'd rather have you put in enough time and effort to produce a complete story instead of a mediocre, rushed one. And in the same note, can you not take a little more time, come up with a solid story, and let readers discover another author in the mean time they might enjoy? It's not a competition, it's not an either or. People love to compare coffee and books, so here it goes. You can get a book from a different author, just as easily as you can get a coffee from a different store. It doesn't mean it changes your preference or favourites, it just means you're *gasp* getting something different that day.
I do not see this as a story. There was no plot, there was minimal romance (and even what was there was hardly believable --- the hero couldn't decide how he felt about the heroine. I'm sorry, you've been together for TEN MONTHS, figure it out, mkay?), and there was plenty of extra shit that I just didn't care about.
So I guess what I'm getting at is:
I read this book.
I wasn't a fan.
This is the last I going to think about it.
I'm going to wipe my hands of it now that I've said what I thought.
I did promise an *honest* review, after all.
So I'm sorry if this seems to mean for anyone or if you think of me as the grinch who stole Christmas because Dom and Camilla were just so swoonworthy in your eyes. I'd have to politely, but firmly, disagree with you.
Adios.
-drops mic-
July 21, 2017
2.5 Stars
I'm going to be super honest and have an unpopular opinion, but this was a huge disappointment. It pains me because 1) I was looking forward to this book so much, I mean Camilla's "mystery man" has been hinted at for 3 books! 2) I adore this author and her books.
The first thing I have to say is that in my opinion, this is not a standalone. The fan of the series in me appreciates all the Landry family appearances and major milestones of other couples that appear in this book, but the objective reader/reviewer in me cannot recommend this as a standalone. This is basically the book that wraps up this series, and to be honest all of the books in the series are way too interconnected to be standalones. When major milestones like weddings and engagements and babies, etc of previous characters happen in books that are not their own, and we're talking, full-on, pages long scenes, then it's a continuation of a story. I do recommend the series, by all means. I loved all the previous books, especially the audiobooks. I just think you'll be completely lost if you pick up this book without reading the others.
However, this is not the reason for my low rating. The main reason is that I found this to have little to no plot. Like I said, this Camilla has a mystery man subplot has been going on for several books, yet this book picks up right after book 4 ends and this couple has been together for 10 months! I thought this would run parallel with the other books so we could see some relationship development, you know, initial spark, initial attraction, lots of firsts, lots of feels. Nope, that already happened outside the book, and you're just told in passing, no flashbacks or anything. You're thrown into an existing relationship that is wishy washy at best with a lot of back and forth, especially from the hero.
Other than she's rich and he's poor and they keep the relationship secret cause they fear her rich family won't accept it there's very little conflict. Anything you think might be a huge deal, like her family involvement/acceptance, or even his fighting "career" gets resolved rather quickly. So again, you're left with a lot of nothing, except for Landry family fillers about the other couples and a lot of silly push and pull between the H and h. No anticipation, no conflict, no feels. It's so different from the other books in this series but not in a positive way. I guess the hero is hot and "overprotective" but he also goes back and forth about his feelings for the heroine for a good 95% of the book, serious whiplash. He's also super wishy washy about other aspects in his life I won't go into details cause I don't want to spoil it for anyone. And Camilla is just meh, she has her moments here and there but she's also neither here nor there.
Again, it might be just me and not the book but I just didn't get it, I'm still struggling to find the plot of the book. There were some other things and inconsistencies about the book that rubbed me the wrong way but I don't want to write a dissertation ragging on the book. At the end of the day I love this author and will keep reading her books. I just expected so much more from this book and sadly IMO it didn't deliver. Still absolutely recommend this author, especially Written in the Scars!!!!
I'm going to be super honest and have an unpopular opinion, but this was a huge disappointment. It pains me because 1) I was looking forward to this book so much, I mean Camilla's "mystery man" has been hinted at for 3 books! 2) I adore this author and her books.
The first thing I have to say is that in my opinion, this is not a standalone. The fan of the series in me appreciates all the Landry family appearances and major milestones of other couples that appear in this book, but the objective reader/reviewer in me cannot recommend this as a standalone. This is basically the book that wraps up this series, and to be honest all of the books in the series are way too interconnected to be standalones. When major milestones like weddings and engagements and babies, etc of previous characters happen in books that are not their own, and we're talking, full-on, pages long scenes, then it's a continuation of a story. I do recommend the series, by all means. I loved all the previous books, especially the audiobooks. I just think you'll be completely lost if you pick up this book without reading the others.
However, this is not the reason for my low rating. The main reason is that I found this to have little to no plot. Like I said, this Camilla has a mystery man subplot has been going on for several books, yet this book picks up right after book 4 ends and this couple has been together for 10 months! I thought this would run parallel with the other books so we could see some relationship development, you know, initial spark, initial attraction, lots of firsts, lots of feels. Nope, that already happened outside the book, and you're just told in passing, no flashbacks or anything. You're thrown into an existing relationship that is wishy washy at best with a lot of back and forth, especially from the hero.
Other than she's rich and he's poor and they keep the relationship secret cause they fear her rich family won't accept it there's very little conflict. Anything you think might be a huge deal, like her family involvement/acceptance, or even his fighting "career" gets resolved rather quickly. So again, you're left with a lot of nothing, except for Landry family fillers about the other couples and a lot of silly push and pull between the H and h. No anticipation, no conflict, no feels. It's so different from the other books in this series but not in a positive way. I guess the hero is hot and "overprotective" but he also goes back and forth about his feelings for the heroine for a good 95% of the book, serious whiplash. He's also super wishy washy about other aspects in his life I won't go into details cause I don't want to spoil it for anyone. And Camilla is just meh, she has her moments here and there but she's also neither here nor there.
Again, it might be just me and not the book but I just didn't get it, I'm still struggling to find the plot of the book. There were some other things and inconsistencies about the book that rubbed me the wrong way but I don't want to write a dissertation ragging on the book. At the end of the day I love this author and will keep reading her books. I just expected so much more from this book and sadly IMO it didn't deliver. Still absolutely recommend this author, especially Written in the Scars!!!!
August 14, 2017
Wow! I loved this book so much. It was my second favorite of the series! Can't wait for the new series the Grayson brothers!!!!
July 22, 2017
Who knew that my most favorite Landry book will actually end up being about a sister and not one of the brothers??? Adriana Locke made Camilla Landry's story downright relatable and so real that it became all the more addictive and unputdownable for me. I mean, don't we always want what we can't have? Don't we always go through that phase in our life where it's all about defiance? But in Camilla's case, the result of that phase was what truly made her happy and alive. What made her life complete. It wasn't just an act or a game or even a phase anymore.
Camilla Landry's story has certainly intrigued me when hints of her "mystery man" dropped in the previous books. So I was definitely stoked that she was getting her own book. Swink might've had a rebellious streak because she wanted to prove that she wasn't the baby in the family anymore, but her biggest act of rebelliousness, in turn, gave her a life full of love and passion and contentment she never expected. I admired this girl's selflessness and her golden marshmallow heart. She knew very well what she had and she used it in all the goodness of her heart. She might've been dainty and prissy—as Nate, Dom's brother, always teased her—but she was still classy as ever. And I certainly loved how she never minded Dom's financial status or job or that they came from completely different worlds. She accepted him fully, and wanted him for him and the way he's the other half of her.
Dominic Hughes... God, where do I even begin? This guy's not a Landry yet, but he might as well be one. He possesses the traits of every man in that family. He might not be wealthy, or grew up in a big family who celebrates every single occasion together or goes to luncheons and charity balls, but when you look deep inside? He belongs. And you'll feel the whole time why Camilla chose him. What she saw in him. What drew her to this man. He's an alpha male through and through, possessive and protective in every which way. But he's also got his own insecurities and vulnerabilities that will utterly gut you and speak to your soul. He's sweet and thoughtful and loyal that you won't be able to help but just love him.
And did I mention that Dom's a fighter? That's right, he actually made me miss Crew Gentry for a bit there. The fight running though this guy's veins is so intense, it pours out of him. He keeps on going even though he's already battered, bleeding and bruised. And sometimes, even I just wanted it all to stop, wrap him up in ice packs, warm hugs and the softest, plushest blankets for some reason. I truly ended up loving Dom so much more than I thought I would. The bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks with a good heart that will make you swoon to no end.
This series (of interconnected standalones) has always been one of my favorites to read and look back to. And one that's incredibly close to my heart. The Landry family just has this unique chemistry and dynamic and love and togetherness that no other family series has that I've ever read about. You will always, always feel that respect and loyalty among the members with each move they make. They're open, back each other up and take care of one another no matter what. It'll just make you beg to change your last name to Landry! I swear! Can't be born as a Landry? Hell, marry one! Lol. And this book proves all the more how the Landrys operate, especially the brothers. How far they'll go just to protect their very own Swink. Oh yes, you will see them all go big brother mode on Camilla. *wags eyebrows*
Love who you want to love and that's that. Dom and Cam's relationship might be an uphill battle but it's one that was worth every bruising and jarring step of the way. I truly appreciated how Adriana Locke expressed through this book that no matter what your status in life, you're free to love who you want to. How that shouldn't hinder you from going after your soulmate or your fate or however else you want to call it. Dom and Cam couldn't be more different than the North Pole and the South Pole, but they forged on, fought and won. Just like every fight Dom goes through, it's bloody painful, but the taste of victory is always what's priceless and worth it in the end.
Swink might not be a book about a Landry brother, but do not, for one second, let that discourage you from reading this book. First off, you'll be bombarded by a ton of appearances from those guys here. By everyone, really. So you won't miss anyone! Second, Camilla Landry will make you fall in love with her just like those boys in all the other books in the series. She's a Landry after all. Plus, Dominic Hughes is just as sexy and desirable as those guys. Maybe even more because of his rough edges. And can you imagine all that testosterone emanating from that guy every time he's pumped up? Umm, wowza! And lastly, this book was written with so much heart and feels, it will just consume you. Seriously, don't knock it 'til you've tried it!
Camilla Landry's story has certainly intrigued me when hints of her "mystery man" dropped in the previous books. So I was definitely stoked that she was getting her own book. Swink might've had a rebellious streak because she wanted to prove that she wasn't the baby in the family anymore, but her biggest act of rebelliousness, in turn, gave her a life full of love and passion and contentment she never expected. I admired this girl's selflessness and her golden marshmallow heart. She knew very well what she had and she used it in all the goodness of her heart. She might've been dainty and prissy—as Nate, Dom's brother, always teased her—but she was still classy as ever. And I certainly loved how she never minded Dom's financial status or job or that they came from completely different worlds. She accepted him fully, and wanted him for him and the way he's the other half of her.
Dominic Hughes... God, where do I even begin? This guy's not a Landry yet, but he might as well be one. He possesses the traits of every man in that family. He might not be wealthy, or grew up in a big family who celebrates every single occasion together or goes to luncheons and charity balls, but when you look deep inside? He belongs. And you'll feel the whole time why Camilla chose him. What she saw in him. What drew her to this man. He's an alpha male through and through, possessive and protective in every which way. But he's also got his own insecurities and vulnerabilities that will utterly gut you and speak to your soul. He's sweet and thoughtful and loyal that you won't be able to help but just love him.
And did I mention that Dom's a fighter? That's right, he actually made me miss Crew Gentry for a bit there. The fight running though this guy's veins is so intense, it pours out of him. He keeps on going even though he's already battered, bleeding and bruised. And sometimes, even I just wanted it all to stop, wrap him up in ice packs, warm hugs and the softest, plushest blankets for some reason. I truly ended up loving Dom so much more than I thought I would. The bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks with a good heart that will make you swoon to no end.
This series (of interconnected standalones) has always been one of my favorites to read and look back to. And one that's incredibly close to my heart. The Landry family just has this unique chemistry and dynamic and love and togetherness that no other family series has that I've ever read about. You will always, always feel that respect and loyalty among the members with each move they make. They're open, back each other up and take care of one another no matter what. It'll just make you beg to change your last name to Landry! I swear! Can't be born as a Landry? Hell, marry one! Lol. And this book proves all the more how the Landrys operate, especially the brothers. How far they'll go just to protect their very own Swink. Oh yes, you will see them all go big brother mode on Camilla. *wags eyebrows*
Love who you want to love and that's that. Dom and Cam's relationship might be an uphill battle but it's one that was worth every bruising and jarring step of the way. I truly appreciated how Adriana Locke expressed through this book that no matter what your status in life, you're free to love who you want to. How that shouldn't hinder you from going after your soulmate or your fate or however else you want to call it. Dom and Cam couldn't be more different than the North Pole and the South Pole, but they forged on, fought and won. Just like every fight Dom goes through, it's bloody painful, but the taste of victory is always what's priceless and worth it in the end.
Swink might not be a book about a Landry brother, but do not, for one second, let that discourage you from reading this book. First off, you'll be bombarded by a ton of appearances from those guys here. By everyone, really. So you won't miss anyone! Second, Camilla Landry will make you fall in love with her just like those boys in all the other books in the series. She's a Landry after all. Plus, Dominic Hughes is just as sexy and desirable as those guys. Maybe even more because of his rough edges. And can you imagine all that testosterone emanating from that guy every time he's pumped up? Umm, wowza! And lastly, this book was written with so much heart and feels, it will just consume you. Seriously, don't knock it 'til you've tried it!
July 10, 2017
**Full review to come***
THIS BOOK IS EVERYTHING! Adriana has been able to keep me coming back to this series and always wanting to dive into the next Landry story! She'll run out of Landry's to write about long before I ever tire of them!
THIS BOOK IS EVERYTHING! Adriana has been able to keep me coming back to this series and always wanting to dive into the next Landry story! She'll run out of Landry's to write about long before I ever tire of them!
July 16, 2017
~*~ 4 1/2 STARS ~*~
When I get my hands on an Adriana Locke romance, complete joy washes over me, and when SWINK landed on my iPad, I screeched like a little kid in a candy shop. The Landry clan has quickly become like a family to myself and Ms. Locke's readers, and with that, comes a protective urge towards them. SWINK is a little different as it doesn't showcase a brooding and alpha Landry man this time around, although trust me, there is absolutely NO SHORTAGE of alpha-ness in this book! I mean, COME ONE NOW, this is Adriana Locke we are talking about. Our hero might not be an ALPHA Landry man, but he is an ALPHA no less. Dominic Hughes is EVERYTHING that this series needed and he is EVERYTHING that Camilla Landry craves. Dominic Hughes fights with his fists, while the Landry's fight with their wallets. They might be completely different on paper, but one this is clear in SWINK, they both want what's best for Cam Landry.
"I love that you trust me enough to let your shoulders sink out of that perfect posture you walk around with."
The chemistry between Cam and Dom just flew off of the pages. They put up this front of casualness, but deep down, they BURN for each other. But life takes over quickly for them. The differences in their families and in their lives in general become more glaring by the day, and they both have real hang-ups about it. Not to mention, the very OVER-PROTECTIVE Landry men that like to voice their opinions whenever is inconvenient.
What I absolutely LOVED about Swink was the updates we were blessed with from each Landry man and the women that eventually brought them to their knees. It was enough to fracture and fill my heart, and it just made me CRAVE even more time with this family.
I think SWINK will become a series FAVORITE for a lot of fans. I think we've grown to love Cam already, and it was nice to see a softer side to her, as well as the spit-fire side we all knew that was brewing within. Adriana Locke absolutely KILLS IT with every word she writes. I can't get enough of this series and even though it has come to an end, Ms. Locke will not leave us high and dry. Cam's twin, Sienna Landry will kick-off a brand new series, THE GIBSON BOYS. I can't even BEGIN to tell you how FREAKING EXCITED I am for this. Another family to fall in love with. More men to fall head over heels in love with. SIGN ME UP!
When I get my hands on an Adriana Locke romance, complete joy washes over me, and when SWINK landed on my iPad, I screeched like a little kid in a candy shop. The Landry clan has quickly become like a family to myself and Ms. Locke's readers, and with that, comes a protective urge towards them. SWINK is a little different as it doesn't showcase a brooding and alpha Landry man this time around, although trust me, there is absolutely NO SHORTAGE of alpha-ness in this book! I mean, COME ONE NOW, this is Adriana Locke we are talking about. Our hero might not be an ALPHA Landry man, but he is an ALPHA no less. Dominic Hughes is EVERYTHING that this series needed and he is EVERYTHING that Camilla Landry craves. Dominic Hughes fights with his fists, while the Landry's fight with their wallets. They might be completely different on paper, but one this is clear in SWINK, they both want what's best for Cam Landry.
"I love that you trust me enough to let your shoulders sink out of that perfect posture you walk around with."
The chemistry between Cam and Dom just flew off of the pages. They put up this front of casualness, but deep down, they BURN for each other. But life takes over quickly for them. The differences in their families and in their lives in general become more glaring by the day, and they both have real hang-ups about it. Not to mention, the very OVER-PROTECTIVE Landry men that like to voice their opinions whenever is inconvenient.
What I absolutely LOVED about Swink was the updates we were blessed with from each Landry man and the women that eventually brought them to their knees. It was enough to fracture and fill my heart, and it just made me CRAVE even more time with this family.
I think SWINK will become a series FAVORITE for a lot of fans. I think we've grown to love Cam already, and it was nice to see a softer side to her, as well as the spit-fire side we all knew that was brewing within. Adriana Locke absolutely KILLS IT with every word she writes. I can't get enough of this series and even though it has come to an end, Ms. Locke will not leave us high and dry. Cam's twin, Sienna Landry will kick-off a brand new series, THE GIBSON BOYS. I can't even BEGIN to tell you how FREAKING EXCITED I am for this. Another family to fall in love with. More men to fall head over heels in love with. SIGN ME UP!
July 16, 2017
This book had me a little nervous. I wasn't sure how a Landry book without a Landry brother was gonna go. I love my Landry guys. There's no question. But holy hell! Dom not only met my expectations, he exceeded them. By leaps & bounds. Actually Dom was everything I love about a book boyfriend. He was sweet, protective, a hard worker and respectable. It would honestly be harder NOT to love him.
Then there's Camilla. I've been a fan of hers since Sway. (If you haven't read it you really should) There's a particular scene between her and Alison that shows what a kind heart she has and I was excited to see that carry through her book. But what I really loved was her fire. Wow! Sweet Camilla was fierce in this book! With four older brothers who have protected her all these years it was time to let them know she could take care of herself. And boy did she ever!
Of course we aren't rendered totally Landry man-less in Camilla's book. As per the norm there are some great family moments. Some smartass Linc. Some amazing Ford and some Graham. G's a little ornery in this book so I'll just leave it at that. I also saw a side of Harris Landry that warmed my heart. His love for his family and willingness to give Dom the credit he deserved gave me just another reason to love this series.
Again another great episode in this fantastic Landry family series. Always entertaining and full of heart! <3
Then there's Camilla. I've been a fan of hers since Sway. (If you haven't read it you really should) There's a particular scene between her and Alison that shows what a kind heart she has and I was excited to see that carry through her book. But what I really loved was her fire. Wow! Sweet Camilla was fierce in this book! With four older brothers who have protected her all these years it was time to let them know she could take care of herself. And boy did she ever!
Of course we aren't rendered totally Landry man-less in Camilla's book. As per the norm there are some great family moments. Some smartass Linc. Some amazing Ford and some Graham. G's a little ornery in this book so I'll just leave it at that. I also saw a side of Harris Landry that warmed my heart. His love for his family and willingness to give Dom the credit he deserved gave me just another reason to love this series.
Again another great episode in this fantastic Landry family series. Always entertaining and full of heart! <3
Shelved as 'never-gonna-read'
July 28, 2017I only tried the sample and the way the H (I have a hard time calling him that...) talked about the h made me sick to my stomach. There's no way I could continue being in his head...
July 26, 2018
==>Review in Portuguese and English.<==
----------
Os dois começam o relacionamento de forma sexual e sem compromisso mas aos poucos vai se tornando mais.
A menina rica apaixonada pelo menino pobre mas que faz ela sentir coisas que ela nunca sentiu antes.
Como mesclar dois mundos tão diferentes e conseguir aceitação da família e da sociedade.
Acompanhe mais uma história que nos prende do início ao fim e que tem o bonus de nos deixar vislumbrar o que acontece na vida dos irmãos.
Eu comecei a leitura e só parei quando chegou ao final e já estou com saudades dos personagens.
Recomendo.
--------
The two begin a relationship in a sexual way and without compromise but gradually becomes more.
The rich girl in love with the poor boy but that makes her feel things she never felt before.
How to merge two worlds so different and get acceptance from family and society.
Follow another story that holds us from start to finish and it has the bonus of letting us glimpse what happens in the life of the brothers.
I started reading and I only stopped when it came to the end and already I miss the characters.
Recommend.
----------
Os dois começam o relacionamento de forma sexual e sem compromisso mas aos poucos vai se tornando mais.
A menina rica apaixonada pelo menino pobre mas que faz ela sentir coisas que ela nunca sentiu antes.
Como mesclar dois mundos tão diferentes e conseguir aceitação da família e da sociedade.
Acompanhe mais uma história que nos prende do início ao fim e que tem o bonus de nos deixar vislumbrar o que acontece na vida dos irmãos.
Eu comecei a leitura e só parei quando chegou ao final e já estou com saudades dos personagens.
Recomendo.
--------
The two begin a relationship in a sexual way and without compromise but gradually becomes more.
The rich girl in love with the poor boy but that makes her feel things she never felt before.
How to merge two worlds so different and get acceptance from family and society.
Follow another story that holds us from start to finish and it has the bonus of letting us glimpse what happens in the life of the brothers.
I started reading and I only stopped when it came to the end and already I miss the characters.
Recommend.
“Why couldn’t you have had Sienna and I first?”
“We had to save the best for last.”
She turns her head until she’s looking at me and winks.
“Good point.”
August 23, 2019
Here are some of my thoughts:
• Possibly my favorite book out of this whole series.
• I wasn’t sure how I was going to like it b/c I usually don’t like when romance stories start with the middle of a relationship (surprisingly, barely any flashbacks. I would’ve liked to see more on that, but I guess I should be glad b/c I’m not a fan of books with too many flashbacks). Anyway, right from the start, I love Dom and Cam together.
• Also, this book addresses real life issues, as Dom has lived a tough life, living paycheck to paycheck and not having a good family besides his brother and nephew. It is interesting to see how Dom and Cam interact, with him struggling in life in ways that she has never struggled before. It’s a sticky situation, but I think they have done well learning how to find that middle ground between them. It is nice when they invite the other to other sides of their life, no matter how awkward and difficult it is for them.
• I love how sweet Dom is with her and how supportive she wants to be in all parts of his life, whether they’re the uglier parts or not.
• It’s nice to see Sienna and Ford being such supportive siblings in this book. And same goes for the rest of the family, who has learned to be understanding and accepting about this situation.
3.5 stars. I enjoyed it and I’m so excited to read Sienna’s book in the new series.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
• Possibly my favorite book out of this whole series.
• I wasn’t sure how I was going to like it b/c I usually don’t like when romance stories start with the middle of a relationship (surprisingly, barely any flashbacks. I would’ve liked to see more on that, but I guess I should be glad b/c I’m not a fan of books with too many flashbacks). Anyway, right from the start, I love Dom and Cam together.
• Also, this book addresses real life issues, as Dom has lived a tough life, living paycheck to paycheck and not having a good family besides his brother and nephew. It is interesting to see how Dom and Cam interact, with him struggling in life in ways that she has never struggled before. It’s a sticky situation, but I think they have done well learning how to find that middle ground between them. It is nice when they invite the other to other sides of their life, no matter how awkward and difficult it is for them.
• I love how sweet Dom is with her and how supportive she wants to be in all parts of his life, whether they’re the uglier parts or not.
• It’s nice to see Sienna and Ford being such supportive siblings in this book. And same goes for the rest of the family, who has learned to be understanding and accepting about this situation.
3.5 stars. I enjoyed it and I’m so excited to read Sienna’s book in the new series.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
July 16, 2017
Sometimes when you read a book from a new-to-you author, one that is popular, one that you've purchased some of their books because people you know have raved about them but you just haven't found the time to get to, and you FINALLY read one....AND THEY FREAKEN BLOW YOUR DAMN MIND. making you think "WHY haven't I read any of her books before NOW??!!" Adriana Locke and Swink are this for me! I have found an author who, I think, will become ONE OF MY TOP FAVES!!!!
The story starts off slowly, but grabs your attention from the beginning. It unfolds like a flower, opening a little bit at a time, giving you glimpses of the beauty to come...until it finally opens up all the way, showing you it's incredible, glowing heart! That's what Dominic (Dom) Hughes sort of reminds me of...except there's really nothing fragile about him! He's all man...and ALPHA to the MAX!!! *sigh* But inside, he's closed up tight just like a flower bud, waiting for the right combination of sunshine, moisture and love to open up to his full potential! Camilla (Cam) Landry IS his right combination, even though he fights it the WHOLE way, believing he isn't nearly good enough for her and will only ruin her life! Luckily, Cam has the fortitude and is feisty enough to stand her ground and eventually, things end up EXACTLY the way they should....but not before my heart and soul were TOTALLY ripped apart! But this is where we find out what the Landry family is all about and I LOVED them all (well, MOSTLY...I have to say I didn't like Lincoln and Graham all that much, at first! ;) )
I give this book a SOLID 6 Stars because I CAN!!! :D I will definitely be getting in the rest of the Landry family...soon! I CAN'T WAIT!!!
The story starts off slowly, but grabs your attention from the beginning. It unfolds like a flower, opening a little bit at a time, giving you glimpses of the beauty to come...until it finally opens up all the way, showing you it's incredible, glowing heart! That's what Dominic (Dom) Hughes sort of reminds me of...except there's really nothing fragile about him! He's all man...and ALPHA to the MAX!!! *sigh* But inside, he's closed up tight just like a flower bud, waiting for the right combination of sunshine, moisture and love to open up to his full potential! Camilla (Cam) Landry IS his right combination, even though he fights it the WHOLE way, believing he isn't nearly good enough for her and will only ruin her life! Luckily, Cam has the fortitude and is feisty enough to stand her ground and eventually, things end up EXACTLY the way they should....but not before my heart and soul were TOTALLY ripped apart! But this is where we find out what the Landry family is all about and I LOVED them all (well, MOSTLY...I have to say I didn't like Lincoln and Graham all that much, at first! ;) )
I give this book a SOLID 6 Stars because I CAN!!! :D I will definitely be getting in the rest of the Landry family...soon! I CAN'T WAIT!!!
July 23, 2017
This book is AH-MA-ZING!!! Adriana Locke always delivers a romance that I fall in love with more and more after every release and characters you can't help but feel an affinity to. She always hits a home run with me.
Whenever an Adriana Locke book lands on my Kindle I can't even begin to describe the emotions that go through me. I am at that point where I am willing to drop and have dropped anything I am doing just to get lost in the characters and different worlds she creates.
The Landry Family Series is one of the very few series that I have been stuck on from the beginning to the end, considering that a different couple is featured in every book. In these type of series, I can never go past the second or third book because I think that it does not manage to capture me the way the first one did. With this series, it has been the complete opposite. With each book in this series, it has actually become harder for me to distinguish which one I like the best and which Landry sibling is my favorite because ugh! it is hard to choose because they are all FANTASTIC!
With the Landry men having already set a bar for me, I was waiting to see if Dominic would live up to those expectations. And BOY, did he live up to them! Dominic Hughes was one character that I fell in love with instantly. He has this air to him that makes you want to know more about him and when you get these little glimpses you can't help but fall in love with him. From having a troubled childhood to an adulthood that has been nothing but more down and fewer ups, he reminded me a teeny-tiny bit of Graham in his visage, but a rougher version of him.
Camilla Landry aka Cam aka Swink is the sweetest and kindest of the Landry siblings and I fell in love with her in the first book. A complete opposite to Dominic in every way possible, Dominic is one thing Cam never thought she wanted in her life. A life that is a million miles apart from his.
The romance, the relationship between Cam and Dom is real and tangible and tumultuous. The way that Cam needed Dom and wanted him to want her in the same capacity pulled me in. It wasn't too heavy nor was it filled with sex scenes but rather rawer in the way how a real-life relationship would be had two people were in the same situation as them.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the relationship that Ryder, Dom's nephew, and Cam shared. The affinity and affection they shared with each of which we get little glimpses of made this book add in the levity between Dom and Cam like this one:
ADORABLE!!!
It's a Locke book so it obvious that I love, live and recommend it! I absolutely ADORED every single minute of reading this book! Dominic was the perfect addition to the ever growing Landry Family and ugh! I am suffering from borderline diabetes because of this family! Lol! But in all seriousness do give this book and this series a chance if you already haven't. You won't be disappointed!
4.5 Stars!
★ Buy Swink (Landry Family, #5) (Kindle)
★ Buy Swink (Landry Family, #5) (Paperback)
_________________________
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*ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review*
He’s wild and uncivilized, but disciplined and thoughtful too. Being with him is like the real world doesn’t exist. It’s like there aren’t societal rules with stupid expectations. With Dom, I can do what I want. I can be whatever I want. It’s a crazy, exciting life.
Whenever an Adriana Locke book lands on my Kindle I can't even begin to describe the emotions that go through me. I am at that point where I am willing to drop and have dropped anything I am doing just to get lost in the characters and different worlds she creates.
The Landry Family Series is one of the very few series that I have been stuck on from the beginning to the end, considering that a different couple is featured in every book. In these type of series, I can never go past the second or third book because I think that it does not manage to capture me the way the first one did. With this series, it has been the complete opposite. With each book in this series, it has actually become harder for me to distinguish which one I like the best and which Landry sibling is my favorite because ugh! it is hard to choose because they are all FANTASTIC!
With the Landry men having already set a bar for me, I was waiting to see if Dominic would live up to those expectations. And BOY, did he live up to them! Dominic Hughes was one character that I fell in love with instantly. He has this air to him that makes you want to know more about him and when you get these little glimpses you can't help but fall in love with him. From having a troubled childhood to an adulthood that has been nothing but more down and fewer ups, he reminded me a teeny-tiny bit of Graham in his visage, but a rougher version of him.
Camilla Landry aka Cam aka Swink is the sweetest and kindest of the Landry siblings and I fell in love with her in the first book. A complete opposite to Dominic in every way possible, Dominic is one thing Cam never thought she wanted in her life. A life that is a million miles apart from his.
The romance, the relationship between Cam and Dom is real and tangible and tumultuous. The way that Cam needed Dom and wanted him to want her in the same capacity pulled me in. It wasn't too heavy nor was it filled with sex scenes but rather rawer in the way how a real-life relationship would be had two people were in the same situation as them.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the relationship that Ryder, Dom's nephew, and Cam shared. The affinity and affection they shared with each of which we get little glimpses of made this book add in the levity between Dom and Cam like this one:
“Camilla!” He holds his arms out to me, his little blue eyes sparkling.
“Hey, Ryder,” I say, wiping my hands on a towel. Lifting him off his father’s shoulders, he wraps his arms around my neck.
“How are you, buddy?”
“Hungry.”
“I’m making breakfast. Want to help?”
“Yes. I missed you,” he says, pulling his face away from mine. “You’re so pretty.”
“Easy there, Ry,” Dominic says. “That’s my girl.”
“My girl,” he says, burying his face in my neck again.
ADORABLE!!!
It's a Locke book so it obvious that I love, live and recommend it! I absolutely ADORED every single minute of reading this book! Dominic was the perfect addition to the ever growing Landry Family and ugh! I am suffering from borderline diabetes because of this family! Lol! But in all seriousness do give this book and this series a chance if you already haven't. You won't be disappointed!
4.5 Stars!
★ Buy Swink (Landry Family, #5) (Kindle)
★ Buy Swink (Landry Family, #5) (Paperback)
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*ARC gifted by author in exchange for an honest review*
July 10, 2017
I may dare say this is my favorite Adriana book yet. She amazes me each and every time. Just when you thought the Landry men couldn't get any hotter, leave it to Camilla to bring the hottest one yet into this series. But, we couldn't have expected any less. This book is everything. Packed with all the feels! A definite must read!
July 23, 2017
Just ok for me.
Love the Landry books but for some reason I didn't like Dominic. I'm not even sure why. I will definitely read on and find out about Sienna when the time comes.
Love the Landry books but for some reason I didn't like Dominic. I'm not even sure why. I will definitely read on and find out about Sienna when the time comes.
July 17, 2017
Every time I think that I can't possibly fall more in love with the Landry family, Adriana Locke proves me wrong! I wasn't sure what to expect with Swink since it was the first time a Landry daughter was being featured, but everything about this story was pure perfection. Swink is the 5th and final book in the interconnected Landry Family series. Though it can be read as a stand alone, for maximum enjoyment, I recommend reading the previous books in the series since many of the characters appear in every book.
I thought that this book would burst from the amount of alpha male goodness it exuded. Dom held his own quite well and then some against the Landry clan and I think readers will be hard pressed to not fall in love with him. He may not have the last name Landry, but he has many of the qualities that make the Landry men so incredible - hardworking, intelligent, loyal, protective, sweet, and incredibly sexy. But like those lovable Landry men, he also has his faults and insecurities. I think of all the books, the push and pull in this one rang the most true. The struggles our characters face are very real and honest. Can two people who couldn't be more different on paper really make it? Is love enough to bridge the gap?
The path for Dom and Camilla is not an easy one and there are very real hurdles that threaten their happily ever after. Their chemistry and attraction is undeniable and though it may have started as lust, things easily become so much more. Dom is so guarded and detached from any true connection, that seeing Camilla break down his walls will have you cheering and feeling giddy. Camilla is equally fierce in this book and I was so happy to see her spread her wings and stand on her own two feet. These two aren't perfect, but together they help each other become better versions of themselves.
Again, one of my favorite parts of this series is the updates and easter eggs readers are given about their favorite characters from past books. We get glimpses into their futures and little tidbits that let their stories continue. Honestly, I will never tire of getting more Lincoln ;) I loved checking in with every single one of the Landry's and my heart is full as we close this series. Thankfully, Adriana Locke is throwing us a bone and we aren't saying good bye to the Landry's just yet. Sienna's story will kick off a new series called The Gibson Boys and I can't wait to see what adventures the author has in store for us next!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
I thought that this book would burst from the amount of alpha male goodness it exuded. Dom held his own quite well and then some against the Landry clan and I think readers will be hard pressed to not fall in love with him. He may not have the last name Landry, but he has many of the qualities that make the Landry men so incredible - hardworking, intelligent, loyal, protective, sweet, and incredibly sexy. But like those lovable Landry men, he also has his faults and insecurities. I think of all the books, the push and pull in this one rang the most true. The struggles our characters face are very real and honest. Can two people who couldn't be more different on paper really make it? Is love enough to bridge the gap?
The path for Dom and Camilla is not an easy one and there are very real hurdles that threaten their happily ever after. Their chemistry and attraction is undeniable and though it may have started as lust, things easily become so much more. Dom is so guarded and detached from any true connection, that seeing Camilla break down his walls will have you cheering and feeling giddy. Camilla is equally fierce in this book and I was so happy to see her spread her wings and stand on her own two feet. These two aren't perfect, but together they help each other become better versions of themselves.
Again, one of my favorite parts of this series is the updates and easter eggs readers are given about their favorite characters from past books. We get glimpses into their futures and little tidbits that let their stories continue. Honestly, I will never tire of getting more Lincoln ;) I loved checking in with every single one of the Landry's and my heart is full as we close this series. Thankfully, Adriana Locke is throwing us a bone and we aren't saying good bye to the Landry's just yet. Sienna's story will kick off a new series called The Gibson Boys and I can't wait to see what adventures the author has in store for us next!
*I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*
Want to read
July 14, 2017
July 22, 2017
There's a reason why I have always rooted Adriana Lockes writing. There's a reason why even after several re-reads, I keep on coming back for more of her works re-reading over and over. And there's a reason why I am so thrilled with her every release. This reason just summed up Swink. This book had me nuts for waiting a long time that when i had it finally, I could not put it down. Man, Adriana's words just felt so real with this last installment of Landry Series and I am so in awe how every time she had a book release, she slayed it. She always hit perfection and that went straight to my heart. Swink is not just your ordinary last book of a series, it's not just merely about poor hot alpha man meets rich goody two shoes woman, hell - it's not just even your Adriana fix because you're so hell bent on looking forward to her new release. Swink is the heart of this series. It doesn't just focus on Cam and Dom but wrapped up everything and portrayed what this series is all about. As I said... HEART!
Dom and Cam's journey have been my obsession ever since there were hints on their relationship from the previous books on this series. I was not just thrilled to get my hands on it but it became my addiction the moment I started reading it. Be still my beating heart but this book owned me. I love it to bits if pieces. The charcaters - it was INSTA LOVE! I had a connection immediately as if I was one of them or just maybe I am a friend. I can feel the realness deep in my bones and I appreciate how Addy has written it in a way that it feels unique and different from her other characters. For a while, I was scared. Scared that it wont top or even make a difference considering I was rooting for those Landry men. But no, this book was equally written like the others. But if I may tell you, this one is much more special to me. In fact, it's my favoritye Landry series. It feels more than just alive. Emotions were seeping through the pages and what the characters have been through just felt genuine. Honestly, the story was simple. Poor fighter man, rich woman, A famous family and all the in-betweens but what makes it unique is how the story was written. Once I started reading it, I forgot the simplicity of the book. Instead I was looking forward on how Addy will write it that it will make a difference.
And yes, she did it. Heart -- it's always the heart and I am in awe of Addy on how she managed to put into writing a story that will not just exude simplicity but above all write it excellently and uniquely as possible. Cam and Dom's relationship felt doomed right from the very start. A lot of factors affecting what could have been a great relationship from the very beginning and not just booty calls that felt real in hiding for 10 months. I felt Dom's hesitation and I pained for him. I was hurt because I can feel it. I understand where his coming from but I was touched on how he fought over his feeling to not mess up whatever they have and would love to have. I love his guts and even with what he experienced and living with his whole life, his sincerity coupled with alpha male hotness and concern was killing me. I rooted for him. That's why I was so glad that he was paired up with Cam. This woman was just his perfect fit and she's a true definition of what a woman should be. Her optimism and her drive to stand for what she believed in and her fierce nature to fight for the one she love made me love her even more. For Doma and Cam, Yes, "It's demure meets damaged, pampered meets punctured."
But who cares when you're what makes you both happy? It's true, "The support. The shoulder. The ear that listens. That's where the love and respect and true collaboration lie. Not anything else." So, fuck if you're not fit to somebody eles's word. Fuck monetary issues. Fuck pasts that wasn't even a problem anymore. Because really, People are perfect each other for different reasons. It's one person's weakness supplemented by the other's strenghts and vice versa.
Overall, I will highly recommend this book. It's a good story of love's journey perfectly imperfectly crafted. Dom and Cam's story was the highlight of my day. I laughed and cried but more than that I fell in love BIG TIME.
July 23, 2017
A complete snorefest! Drastically different from other books from the series. Dominic and Camila are introduced after they have already been together for 10 mos. We didn't get to experience their first meeting, turning into a relationship....nothing. For that alone, I feel cheated. They had zero chemistry and the back and forth of Dominic and his feelings about the relationship became annoying. I didn't enjoy this one. Not even a little. 2*sorely disappointed* stars
July 20, 2017
I can never pick which Landry man I loved the most I mean they are one seriously cool family and now we get to meet Camilla and she definitely gives them a fun fit their money.
We may not get a brooding Landry man but we get Dominic and oh my hotness overload, he's the bad boy her mother probably warned her about. On the outside and on paper they shouldn't work they are so different but they just do they are perfect together.
Camilla has been cosseted and protected by her brothers so much despite my love for them they annoyed me with their lack of faith in her, I know it came from a place of love but jeez guys let her breath.
What I really loved about Dominic was he was the insecure one, so often it's the woman who has feelings of doubt and feeling like she isn't worthy. This was such a refreshing change,he needed the reassurance and Camilla does her best to show him just how much he means to her.
As always the author has written a beautiful story, loved catching up with the characters from the previous books and I can't wait to get Sienna's story.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
We may not get a brooding Landry man but we get Dominic and oh my hotness overload, he's the bad boy her mother probably warned her about. On the outside and on paper they shouldn't work they are so different but they just do they are perfect together.
Camilla has been cosseted and protected by her brothers so much despite my love for them they annoyed me with their lack of faith in her, I know it came from a place of love but jeez guys let her breath.
What I really loved about Dominic was he was the insecure one, so often it's the woman who has feelings of doubt and feeling like she isn't worthy. This was such a refreshing change,he needed the reassurance and Camilla does her best to show him just how much he means to her.
As always the author has written a beautiful story, loved catching up with the characters from the previous books and I can't wait to get Sienna's story.
reviewed by Sweet Spot Sisterhood
September 19, 2017
The final installment of the Landry Family series was the hottest one out of them all. My gosh. Adriana Locke did a 360 in this book and I couldn't get enough! Camilla Landry isn't her usual self. Her siblings notice the changes but her stubbornness, and in part her desire to keep something to herself, make things difficult. Her secret? Dominic Hughes. And like he aptly says, he is that guy. The guy your parents warn you about. But that's only if you look on the surface and judge him immediately. He was so much more. Kind, caring, protective, sweet with enough alpha tendencies to make things extra hot and spicy. Dom had his own issues, mainly from his childhood. The biggest thing out of them all is the belief that he and Cam do not belong together. He tries everything to keep her at arm's length but most of it is futile. Cam is also dealing with a whole lot of things. Namely becoming her own person. She's allowed her family to protect and coddle her to the extent that they have access to her bank accounts and what she can and can't do. It was frustrating at times for me to read that and how she had no backbone. And the worst was Graham Landry. I don't remember him being such an ass in Switch. Dom and Cam had a lot of things to work through. It wasn't smooth sailing. Learning to compromise, support and listen to one another was the uphill battle. They also had sexual chemistry in spades. Just read the opening chapter to see what I mean.
I enjoyed the little snippets into the other Landry siblings lives. Lincoln continues to be hilarious and entertaining, with the rest of the family bringing in their own special qualities. Ms Locke really has made this family authentic and lovable. I've enjoyed delving into their lives and look forward to the last Landry sibling, Sienna, starting off the new series and getting her own HEA.
I enjoyed the little snippets into the other Landry siblings lives. Lincoln continues to be hilarious and entertaining, with the rest of the family bringing in their own special qualities. Ms Locke really has made this family authentic and lovable. I've enjoyed delving into their lives and look forward to the last Landry sibling, Sienna, starting off the new series and getting her own HEA.
July 24, 2017
First of all, I have really enjoyed all of the Adriana Locke books that I have read, up until this point. I was excited to read Cam's story and find out about her hot guy from the wrong side of the tracks. Frankly, she should have left him there because he was a jerk. "Together" for 10 months and he treats her like crap. She can't be a part of his world. He won't stay at her house. Yeah, She should have kicked him to the curb! In fact, that would have made for a better story. She should have dumped him, he could have come to his senses, and groveled for forgiveness for his jerk ways. And don't say he's not a jerk because he acts like a jerk to everyone, including his family. And for someone who seems to have issues about being judged because of his upbringing, he sure does a fair deal of judging himself, including Cam. Sorry, didn't like it at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 23, 2017
BANGOR BELLE BOOK BESTIES
I received an arc copy of this book in return for nothing but an honest review.
Firstly i have to say that i am not always a fan of Book Series that give us each characters story separately. I find that i don’t always have a huge interest in reading other characters stories and tend to lose interest. But what i can say is, this series IS DIFFERENT. OMG !! it just keeps getting better and better !!! Adriana Locke has a talent of giving us characters that just dive into our hearts. She writes stories that we don’t want to end, and a world we don’t want to escape from.
Camilla is the twin sister to Sienna, and sister to brothers we all adore, Barrett, Ford, Lincoln and Graham, all broody, protective alpha men!! Camilla’s love interest is Dominic Hughes, a fighter, and whilst Camilla is from a silver spoon background, Dominic is from the other side of the tracks. You just can’t help but love Dominic, he’s protective, he’s got a huge heart, he’s just adorable, even though he’s got that male pride. Their love story isn’t the easiest path. Dominic feels he will never be good enough for Camilla, and he’s just happy to have this amazing girl in his life, even if its not going to be permanent. Camilla feels that Dominic, with his background won’t ever love her they way she could him, yet its so easy to see that they are most definitely made for each other. A year down the line and things start to change. I guess the time has come for them to reveal their feelings…. but do they even have a chance. Will Dominic be welcomed by her family, after all he’s related to the man who tried to destroy her brother Barrett’s career. Can Dominic get past his issue’s?
This book is hot !!!!!!!!!!! I adored Cam and Dominic’s relationship and i absolutely loved how Adriana Locke made me feel so invested in this relationship. I was gripped from beginning to end and loved the little catch ups with the rest of this amazing family. Adriana Locke kept me on tenterhooks the whole way through and my emotions up in the air. OMG and when Dominic turns up to claim his WOMAN !! OH MY HEART !!! This series and this book are definite must reads !! We all need some Landry in our lives !!!!
I received an arc copy of this book in return for nothing but an honest review.
Firstly i have to say that i am not always a fan of Book Series that give us each characters story separately. I find that i don’t always have a huge interest in reading other characters stories and tend to lose interest. But what i can say is, this series IS DIFFERENT. OMG !! it just keeps getting better and better !!! Adriana Locke has a talent of giving us characters that just dive into our hearts. She writes stories that we don’t want to end, and a world we don’t want to escape from.
Camilla is the twin sister to Sienna, and sister to brothers we all adore, Barrett, Ford, Lincoln and Graham, all broody, protective alpha men!! Camilla’s love interest is Dominic Hughes, a fighter, and whilst Camilla is from a silver spoon background, Dominic is from the other side of the tracks. You just can’t help but love Dominic, he’s protective, he’s got a huge heart, he’s just adorable, even though he’s got that male pride. Their love story isn’t the easiest path. Dominic feels he will never be good enough for Camilla, and he’s just happy to have this amazing girl in his life, even if its not going to be permanent. Camilla feels that Dominic, with his background won’t ever love her they way she could him, yet its so easy to see that they are most definitely made for each other. A year down the line and things start to change. I guess the time has come for them to reveal their feelings…. but do they even have a chance. Will Dominic be welcomed by her family, after all he’s related to the man who tried to destroy her brother Barrett’s career. Can Dominic get past his issue’s?
This book is hot !!!!!!!!!!! I adored Cam and Dominic’s relationship and i absolutely loved how Adriana Locke made me feel so invested in this relationship. I was gripped from beginning to end and loved the little catch ups with the rest of this amazing family. Adriana Locke kept me on tenterhooks the whole way through and my emotions up in the air. OMG and when Dominic turns up to claim his WOMAN !! OH MY HEART !!! This series and this book are definite must reads !! We all need some Landry in our lives !!!!
July 20, 2017
Swink is book five in the Landry series and is the story of Camilla and Domenic. It's a beautiful, heartfelt story. I loved hearing from all the Landry family. A perfect ending to an incredible series. This series may be over but you never know what Adriana has up her sleeve next. Stay tuned!
Cam has grown up with four overbearing brothers, they would do anything for her. Cam has never had a serious relationship with men her brothers made it a habit of always interfering. Hence her reason for keeping Dom a secret from all of them. Cam wants more with Dom she was to have what her brothers have with their significant others. She's determined to prove to them all that Dom is worthy of her and her family.
Dom's life hasn't been easy for him, growing up his father beat him, his mother and brother. Living day by day wondering when their father would become violent, if they were going to eat. It's just Dom and his brother Nate left now they are very close and help each other out. Nate and Dom share the responsibilities in helping raise Nate's son Ryder. Dom is hard worker he works his day job as a HVAC repair man, helps out at his brothers bar and he fights for extra money. A completely different life style than Cam and the Landry family. Dom has never been with someone like Cam he believes she deserves better than him.
Cam and Dom start to build a relationship but Dom is hesitant to get any closer to her. He feels he has nothing to offer her, Cam tells him repeatedly that she only wants him and nothing more. Dom knows he's from the wrong side of the tracks with the way he lives his life compared to Cam's. Cam is not type of girl to let society dicate who she can and can't have in her life. Will Dom be able to overcome his issues, before it's to late and he loses Cam? Are these two destined to be together or will fate intervene? You'll have to read it and find out for yourselves. A definite must read!
Cam has grown up with four overbearing brothers, they would do anything for her. Cam has never had a serious relationship with men her brothers made it a habit of always interfering. Hence her reason for keeping Dom a secret from all of them. Cam wants more with Dom she was to have what her brothers have with their significant others. She's determined to prove to them all that Dom is worthy of her and her family.
Dom's life hasn't been easy for him, growing up his father beat him, his mother and brother. Living day by day wondering when their father would become violent, if they were going to eat. It's just Dom and his brother Nate left now they are very close and help each other out. Nate and Dom share the responsibilities in helping raise Nate's son Ryder. Dom is hard worker he works his day job as a HVAC repair man, helps out at his brothers bar and he fights for extra money. A completely different life style than Cam and the Landry family. Dom has never been with someone like Cam he believes she deserves better than him.
Cam and Dom start to build a relationship but Dom is hesitant to get any closer to her. He feels he has nothing to offer her, Cam tells him repeatedly that she only wants him and nothing more. Dom knows he's from the wrong side of the tracks with the way he lives his life compared to Cam's. Cam is not type of girl to let society dicate who she can and can't have in her life. Will Dom be able to overcome his issues, before it's to late and he loses Cam? Are these two destined to be together or will fate intervene? You'll have to read it and find out for yourselves. A definite must read!
July 16, 2017
Seriously in love with Dom and Cam!!! I literally finished this book in a day and a half. It would have been sooner but mom duties...
Adriana I can't even put into words how much this book gave me the feels! I mean I love everything you write but, there was just something about Dom and Cam that stuck with me. Plus, you gave me G and Linc and you can never have too much of them.
At first, I thought oh i'm not sure if Dom is going to do it for me but when he makes that phone call he had me in his hands! Thank you once again for giving us such an amazing story and characters that I feel like I know. I knew how Cam felt being badgered by her brothers since I can relate to being the baby of the family. I always feel like I'm right there with the characters as I'm reading. Whether it's crying, laughing or being pissed at G lol. Once again you've outdone yourself Adriana!! Thank you!
Adriana I can't even put into words how much this book gave me the feels! I mean I love everything you write but, there was just something about Dom and Cam that stuck with me. Plus, you gave me G and Linc and you can never have too much of them.
At first, I thought oh i'm not sure if Dom is going to do it for me but when he makes that phone call he had me in his hands! Thank you once again for giving us such an amazing story and characters that I feel like I know. I knew how Cam felt being badgered by her brothers since I can relate to being the baby of the family. I always feel like I'm right there with the characters as I'm reading. Whether it's crying, laughing or being pissed at G lol. Once again you've outdone yourself Adriana!! Thank you!
July 20, 2017
Yesss!! Another fantastic Landry Book! Cam and Dom have their issues to deal with, but as always, Adriana Locke writes such lovable, relatable characters that I’m always pulling for them the whole way thru! Beautifully written, highly entertaining 5 stars!
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