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Fallen #1
Fallen Love
From a successful crowdfunder, Fallen Love comes action-packed with flying cars, dark magic, and fallen angels.
Upperclassman Conall is rich, impeccably dressed, and set for a prestigious career in the Party hierarchy. He doesn’t lack for anything—except, maybe, love.
When he finds Mark, alone, abandoned and hurt, he doesn’t expect one act of kindness to alter the course of his life forever. There is more to Mark than Conall can even dream of. The beautiful, vulnerable boy Conall knows is not human. A dark power lies within Mark. It can make him immortal... but love might be the price.
Discover why readers are calling this book “nothing short of amazing” and ”superb”. If you’re a fan of Cassandra Clare or Lauren Kate, you don’t want to miss this.
What readers are saying...
★★★★★ “To say this novel took me by surprise is a total understatement. This story surprised, astounded, and made me so happy that it is right up there with the top ten books I have read this year.” —Sharon, Blogger
★★★★★ “The writing is polished, even compelling in spots. If you're looking for an entertaining read with ambitious world-building, give it a try.” —KD Edwards, author of the Last Sun (Pyr)
★★★★★ “This book was nothing short of amazing. I loved the characters, the action, it's safe to say I loved everything about this book. I hope to see more in this series because I'm hooked.” —Ashley Tomlinson, author of Becoming Grim
★★★★★ “The world-building in this book is superb.” —Rion, Goodreads Reviewer.
Upperclassman Conall is rich, impeccably dressed, and set for a prestigious career in the Party hierarchy. He doesn’t lack for anything—except, maybe, love.
When he finds Mark, alone, abandoned and hurt, he doesn’t expect one act of kindness to alter the course of his life forever. There is more to Mark than Conall can even dream of. The beautiful, vulnerable boy Conall knows is not human. A dark power lies within Mark. It can make him immortal... but love might be the price.
Discover why readers are calling this book “nothing short of amazing” and ”superb”. If you’re a fan of Cassandra Clare or Lauren Kate, you don’t want to miss this.
What readers are saying...
★★★★★ “To say this novel took me by surprise is a total understatement. This story surprised, astounded, and made me so happy that it is right up there with the top ten books I have read this year.” —Sharon, Blogger
★★★★★ “The writing is polished, even compelling in spots. If you're looking for an entertaining read with ambitious world-building, give it a try.” —KD Edwards, author of the Last Sun (Pyr)
★★★★★ “This book was nothing short of amazing. I loved the characters, the action, it's safe to say I loved everything about this book. I hope to see more in this series because I'm hooked.” —Ashley Tomlinson, author of Becoming Grim
★★★★★ “The world-building in this book is superb.” —Rion, Goodreads Reviewer.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2020
4 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Alex Stargazer
8 books21 followersAlex Stargazer is an author of dark, fantastical tales that snare you in with epic world-building—and keep you reading with funny anecdotes and beautiful love stories. Since publishing his first novel—the Necromancer—at 14, Alex has released a new series comprised of two books: Fallen Love and Fallen Desire. Featuring demons and magic in a strange, scifiesque Ireland, the Fallen series blends contemporary fantasy with LGBT romance.
When not establishing the finer points of magecraft or the peculiarities of dragons, Alex is working hard for his dayjob in machine learning. In his spare time, Alex enjoys exploring the wilderness of Scotland—though Austria, Italy and the Nordic countries fascinate him most
Alex can be found on Twitter @AlexStargazerWE or on Facebook at Alex Stargazer Writes Books. You can get a FREE short story on his website: www.alexstargazer.com
When not establishing the finer points of magecraft or the peculiarities of dragons, Alex is working hard for his dayjob in machine learning. In his spare time, Alex enjoys exploring the wilderness of Scotland—though Austria, Italy and the Nordic countries fascinate him most
Alex can be found on Twitter @AlexStargazerWE or on Facebook at Alex Stargazer Writes Books. You can get a FREE short story on his website: www.alexstargazer.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 7, 2020
I knew very early on -- around page 30 -- that this book wasn't for me, but I was already committed to finishing it for a review. Considering it's 300 pages, I mean it as a compliment when I say it wasn't painful to get through. It moves at a quick pace, which I appreciated, although some of that is just a general lack of development.
And considering the author wrote this as a teenager, there is great potential here, especially with the world-building. It's an interesting set-up, but there are still some pretty big holes. (Although those may still be addressed since this has more of a To Be Continued ending than anything else...)
But I had two big issues right out the gate:
1. The writing style was much too stilted for my taste. There were also some major errors in sentence construction, beyond simple typos, that were driving me a bit batty early on, but those mostly disappeared until the sex scenes, which were kinda hard to follow. In the acknowledgements at the end of the book, the author said this started as a ("self-indulgent") poem, which probably goes a long way towards explaining why it didn't work for me.
2. The relationship-building was basically non-existent in addition to being insta-love. The MC's are teenagers, so that's certainly one excuse, but there's literally nothing to connect their first meeting and brush-off to starting a relationship. Plus Conall was arrogant to the point of condescending, and both boys just seemed to accept that was appropriate behavior given their class differences, even though they're both written as independent thinkers who don't buy into the politics that created those classes in the first place. It was very off-putting, and there wasn't much character development to balance it out. Conall is intelligent and throws his money around, Mark is hot and a curiosity to Conall, they're both gay (which is frowned upon), so...relationship? And it wasn't really built on from there.
The ending also did not work for me at all. None of the character's decisions made sense to me, and combining that with a gigantic To-Be-Continued of a cliffhanger would have really pissed me off if I had been at all invested in the story. I'm giving it two stars anyway (or more likely rounding up from 1.5 stars) because I really think it's a miracle that I got through 300 pages of a book, written in anti-Pam style, that I wasn't invested in, as fast as I did, without being mad about it. I don't know what exactly that means...but I'm sure it means something good for the author's future :)
**This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program**
And considering the author wrote this as a teenager, there is great potential here, especially with the world-building. It's an interesting set-up, but there are still some pretty big holes. (Although those may still be addressed since this has more of a To Be Continued ending than anything else...)
But I had two big issues right out the gate:
1. The writing style was much too stilted for my taste. There were also some major errors in sentence construction, beyond simple typos, that were driving me a bit batty early on, but those mostly disappeared until the sex scenes, which were kinda hard to follow. In the acknowledgements at the end of the book, the author said this started as a ("self-indulgent") poem, which probably goes a long way towards explaining why it didn't work for me.
2. The relationship-building was basically non-existent in addition to being insta-love. The MC's are teenagers, so that's certainly one excuse, but there's literally nothing to connect their first meeting and brush-off to starting a relationship. Plus Conall was arrogant to the point of condescending, and both boys just seemed to accept that was appropriate behavior given their class differences, even though they're both written as independent thinkers who don't buy into the politics that created those classes in the first place. It was very off-putting, and there wasn't much character development to balance it out. Conall is intelligent and throws his money around, Mark is hot and a curiosity to Conall, they're both gay (which is frowned upon), so...relationship? And it wasn't really built on from there.
The ending also did not work for me at all. None of the character's decisions made sense to me, and combining that with a gigantic To-Be-Continued of a cliffhanger would have really pissed me off if I had been at all invested in the story. I'm giving it two stars anyway (or more likely rounding up from 1.5 stars) because I really think it's a miracle that I got through 300 pages of a book, written in anti-Pam style, that I wasn't invested in, as fast as I did, without being mad about it. I don't know what exactly that means...but I'm sure it means something good for the author's future :)
**This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program**
March 2, 2020
"Big Brother is Watching You!"
Title: Fallen Love
Series: Fallen #1
Author: Alex Stargazer
Publisher: Stargazer Indusdries, Inc.
Format: ebook (ARC)
Release Date: 12/15/2019
Genre/ Trope(s): Gay YA Fantasy Romance; PNR; Dystopian; Class division; interspecies
Page Count: 328p.
SteaMMy Swordplay: 2 out of 5⚔
Sharonica-Stars: 4.5 out of 5✨
MMy Thoughts and Review:
This is a dystopian world where America and Russia have fallen. China and a dysfunctional and unbalanced league of nations now make up the world's political powerhouses and as such are enemies.
In Ireland where the story begins we are met with classes of people; the Upperclassmen, lowerclassmen, and the Fallen.
Upperclassmen run the various countries and are part and parcel to the running of things politically through influence in the political halls, with money, and "guile and cunning," as Conall would say.
Under or lowerclassmen/ technical are the workforce. Doctors, police, businessmen/ women, and educators, etc.
The Fallen are the dregs of society and as such are not allowed in certain parts of the cities or quarters as they are called or with other class types, even if they are family. A person found in the wrong quarter, or trying to present themselves above their station can find themselves in even worse dire straits.
The people in this new world that have survived nuclear war also must contend with mutants who have but one goal... Destroy all humans!
Earth is a frightening and precarious world now, more than ever before, but a desire as old as time survives even here. The desire to be loved and accepted for your TRUE self and to love in return.
Our young MCs are as different as night and day. It isn't only their class distinction that separates them, though Conall is Upperclassmen and Mark a Fallen. They have different hopes and dreams and at the core, these two eventually discover a difference so vast no amount of love between them may bridge the divide that threatens to separate them.
To say this novel took me by surprise is a total understatement. This story surprised, astounded, and made me so happy that it is right up there with the top ten books I have read out of a few hundred in 2019.
Stargazer takes you on a slow journey through the streets of Dublin where you meet a cast of characters who tell what is happening in this world of the future, all the while a slow darkness creeps over your bones as you feel something sinister lurking and growing as the pages turn.
By the time "Part Two" of the novel opens, you are flying on wings at the speed of sound and the action doesn't slow, and neither will your heart rate until the ride is over.
This was excellent! Imaginative, dark, playful at times, with a motley cast of characters who will tickle your psyche and leave you begging for more!
I am very much looking forward to the next book in The Fallen series.
4.5 light-in-the-darkness-stars ✨✨✨✨•✨
Title: Fallen Love
Series: Fallen #1
Author: Alex Stargazer
Publisher: Stargazer Indusdries, Inc.
Format: ebook (ARC)
Release Date: 12/15/2019
Genre/ Trope(s): Gay YA Fantasy Romance; PNR; Dystopian; Class division; interspecies
Page Count: 328p.
SteaMMy Swordplay: 2 out of 5⚔
Sharonica-Stars: 4.5 out of 5✨
MMy Thoughts and Review:
This is a dystopian world where America and Russia have fallen. China and a dysfunctional and unbalanced league of nations now make up the world's political powerhouses and as such are enemies.
In Ireland where the story begins we are met with classes of people; the Upperclassmen, lowerclassmen, and the Fallen.
Upperclassmen run the various countries and are part and parcel to the running of things politically through influence in the political halls, with money, and "guile and cunning," as Conall would say.
Under or lowerclassmen/ technical are the workforce. Doctors, police, businessmen/ women, and educators, etc.
The Fallen are the dregs of society and as such are not allowed in certain parts of the cities or quarters as they are called or with other class types, even if they are family. A person found in the wrong quarter, or trying to present themselves above their station can find themselves in even worse dire straits.
The people in this new world that have survived nuclear war also must contend with mutants who have but one goal... Destroy all humans!
Earth is a frightening and precarious world now, more than ever before, but a desire as old as time survives even here. The desire to be loved and accepted for your TRUE self and to love in return.
Our young MCs are as different as night and day. It isn't only their class distinction that separates them, though Conall is Upperclassmen and Mark a Fallen. They have different hopes and dreams and at the core, these two eventually discover a difference so vast no amount of love between them may bridge the divide that threatens to separate them.
To say this novel took me by surprise is a total understatement. This story surprised, astounded, and made me so happy that it is right up there with the top ten books I have read out of a few hundred in 2019.
Stargazer takes you on a slow journey through the streets of Dublin where you meet a cast of characters who tell what is happening in this world of the future, all the while a slow darkness creeps over your bones as you feel something sinister lurking and growing as the pages turn.
By the time "Part Two" of the novel opens, you are flying on wings at the speed of sound and the action doesn't slow, and neither will your heart rate until the ride is over.
This was excellent! Imaginative, dark, playful at times, with a motley cast of characters who will tickle your psyche and leave you begging for more!
I am very much looking forward to the next book in The Fallen series.
4.5 light-in-the-darkness-stars ✨✨✨✨•✨
December 8, 2019
One of the things I appreciate most in a book is a mash-up of genres. The more the better. And within the first few pages of FALLEN LOVE, you get hints (or big noisy introductions) of a feudal conflict, gay romance, androids, mutant monsters....all in a post-apocalyptic setting. And that's just the beginning.
Alex Stargazer invests his novel with deep world-building elements: a gay romance set against a harsh regime reminiscent of Orwell's 1984. The writing is polished, even compelling in spots. (There was one point early on when the main character was trying to distract himself by reading. Stargazer writes: "...I find myself bored. I skip words, sentences, and eventually whole paragraphs." That's such a beautiful way to describe something we're all familiar with.)
If you're looking for an entertaining read with ambitious world-building and touches of gay romance & erotica, give it a try.
December 6, 2019
This ARC has been sent to me by the author in exchange for an unbiased review.
This book was really a good surprise for me. I don't usually like books that are set in a near future, which is the reason why this one was a bit confusing at first. It took me at least one hundred pages to get into the story, but that's just because of my reading habitudes.
It's when I moved past that that I really started to enjoy the story, especially since it was fast-paced from around the middle, and I like it that way. The multiples plot-twists kept me at the edge of my seat, and I read the second part of the book in one sitting.
It's worth pointing out that the worldbuilding is greatly done in here, it's obvious that the author has done a lot of research and gathered accurate knowledge in every field (laws, economics, even medicine), therefore he knows all the details about his story and characters.
Overall the characters were well-done as well, my favorite being Mark. The one I didn't like was Conall, but I was intrigued by the mystery surrounding Kaylin's character as well, so I'm definitely looking forward to see how her character evolves. Although the one thing that bothered me about Mark is how quick he mastered his powers, it looked as if he had been using them for a while even when they just expressed themselves.
The end was also unexpected and intense, and I will surely pick up the next one when it's released.
I will finish by saying how beautiful this cover looks ! The design is simple and yet so efficient, the artist did an amazing job on this one.
Again, thanks to Alex Stargazer for this ARC, and good luck for the launch.
This book was really a good surprise for me. I don't usually like books that are set in a near future, which is the reason why this one was a bit confusing at first. It took me at least one hundred pages to get into the story, but that's just because of my reading habitudes.
It's when I moved past that that I really started to enjoy the story, especially since it was fast-paced from around the middle, and I like it that way. The multiples plot-twists kept me at the edge of my seat, and I read the second part of the book in one sitting.
It's worth pointing out that the worldbuilding is greatly done in here, it's obvious that the author has done a lot of research and gathered accurate knowledge in every field (laws, economics, even medicine), therefore he knows all the details about his story and characters.
Overall the characters were well-done as well, my favorite being Mark. The one I didn't like was Conall, but I was intrigued by the mystery surrounding Kaylin's character as well, so I'm definitely looking forward to see how her character evolves. Although the one thing that bothered me about Mark is how quick he mastered his powers, it looked as if he had been using them for a while even when they just expressed themselves.
The end was also unexpected and intense, and I will surely pick up the next one when it's released.
I will finish by saying how beautiful this cover looks ! The design is simple and yet so efficient, the artist did an amazing job on this one.
Again, thanks to Alex Stargazer for this ARC, and good luck for the launch.
January 11, 2020
A urban fantasy with a romance genre tag that unfortunately didn’t hold true. There is room for improvement and the story and plot is there but it seems to lack the background, the world building the love. It was a quick “love at first sight” type of romance with a lot of switching main character point of views. The fantasy portion was sound with magic, demons and other unearthly beings but overall this book was a drag and nearly was a DNF.
January 7, 2020
**Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
Unfortunately, I found myself unable to finish this book. I was excited to read a dystopian M/M romance, but found the beginning jarring, hard to follow, and the characterizations unlikely/too trope-y.
Unfortunately, I found myself unable to finish this book. I was excited to read a dystopian M/M romance, but found the beginning jarring, hard to follow, and the characterizations unlikely/too trope-y.
February 9, 2020
I got to say that the world building that Alex Stargazer has created is absolutely amazing. I am pulled into this world and I could stop. Mark and Conall are amazing characters and I just couldn't help but love these two. I am so ready for the next book of this series. This is such an amazing world!
February 6, 2020
paranormal, mystery, intrigue, so many interesting things going on in this story.. good characters.. complex emotions and personalities.. complex plot.. very good. i liked it a lot and cant wait for the next one.
February 10, 2020
What an amazing debut novel.
This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with action, drama, magic, mystery and political intrigue.
Amazing world building with complex and depth of emotion characters.
I'm looking forward to continuing the story
This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with action, drama, magic, mystery and political intrigue.
Amazing world building with complex and depth of emotion characters.
I'm looking forward to continuing the story
February 10, 2020
I would recommend this book to any fantasy reader. It's set many years into the future with high technology, androids, demons, witches, mutants, powered humans and a LGBT love story.
First off, I'm not a romance reader but the book description sounded interesting enough and there seemed to be enough fantasy elements to draw me in so I gave it a try. In fact after I read about this book and the author, I went as far as to become a Kickstarter backer to help this book along. I'm not the best reviewer type reader but I'll do my best.
The book started out a little slow for me, lot's of teen love (Conall and Mark) angst in dark future time where after a nuclear war between the US and Russia in which they destroys themselves, the rest of the world changes, leaving only a couple primary countries (basically all the European countries together.... the rest all China controlled.) So now (at least on the European side) we have defined classes of people, the lowest called the Fallen. So then we have an Upperclass teenager (Conall) who falls in love with a Fallen (Mark). Somewhat classic love story but with high technology and androids (plus of course unimaginable unearthly powers).
Next comes the good stuff. The author tells the story from various character's point of view. A girl who can control the weather, a guy who can disappear and make himself unseen and unheard, a witch with various powers and a mysterious book of power who seems to want to help destroy the current government regime. Then we get to the Fallen - Mark and his powers. We get to meet Mark's dad and learn his history (you can read about that in the book). All throughout Mark and Conall get to know each other, struggle with the class difference then when Mark's power emerges, that becomes another issue for them to overcome - along with some overwhelming enemies.
The book ends in a total cliff hanger and I'll be sure to read the entire series because I have to see where this is headed. Overall, this was a good start for a young author and a new series. (I'm curious why the androids weren't used as much throughout the book - seemed like Conall could have used them!) There were some minor editing issues and it took awhile for the story to get some traction but if you hang in there, the story blossoms into an interesting fantasy story with beings of great and various powers fighting for the fate of the world and for love. I think the story (and author) will grow to evolve into something Epic so I'll be sticking around the long haul.
First off, I'm not a romance reader but the book description sounded interesting enough and there seemed to be enough fantasy elements to draw me in so I gave it a try. In fact after I read about this book and the author, I went as far as to become a Kickstarter backer to help this book along. I'm not the best reviewer type reader but I'll do my best.
The book started out a little slow for me, lot's of teen love (Conall and Mark) angst in dark future time where after a nuclear war between the US and Russia in which they destroys themselves, the rest of the world changes, leaving only a couple primary countries (basically all the European countries together.... the rest all China controlled.) So now (at least on the European side) we have defined classes of people, the lowest called the Fallen. So then we have an Upperclass teenager (Conall) who falls in love with a Fallen (Mark). Somewhat classic love story but with high technology and androids (plus of course unimaginable unearthly powers).
Next comes the good stuff. The author tells the story from various character's point of view. A girl who can control the weather, a guy who can disappear and make himself unseen and unheard, a witch with various powers and a mysterious book of power who seems to want to help destroy the current government regime. Then we get to the Fallen - Mark and his powers. We get to meet Mark's dad and learn his history (you can read about that in the book). All throughout Mark and Conall get to know each other, struggle with the class difference then when Mark's power emerges, that becomes another issue for them to overcome - along with some overwhelming enemies.
The book ends in a total cliff hanger and I'll be sure to read the entire series because I have to see where this is headed. Overall, this was a good start for a young author and a new series. (I'm curious why the androids weren't used as much throughout the book - seemed like Conall could have used them!) There were some minor editing issues and it took awhile for the story to get some traction but if you hang in there, the story blossoms into an interesting fantasy story with beings of great and various powers fighting for the fate of the world and for love. I think the story (and author) will grow to evolve into something Epic so I'll be sticking around the long haul.
January 25, 2020
We are worlds apart, and love is forbidden.
This book got off on a really good start, introducing a future world in a way that allowed me to see and grasp it through the characters' eyes, while also effortlessly moving the story forward. I loved Mark and Conall's first meeting and how it was set up to immediately show the differences between their personalities and circumstances in life. It felt very engaging, very promising.
I also found the writing quite lovely for the most part. I have even highlighted passages that made me sigh, especially during Mark and Conall's gentler moments. On the whole I can even say I actually loved the story: both the forbidden romance and the much darker undertones of magic, insurgency and demons that were gradually building on its edges.
I guess my eventual disappointment resulted from expecting a little too much from the characters and their motivations, given their supposed personalities and unspoken thoughts. There were more than a couple of instances of characters frustratingly descending into helplessness and incompetence, which I found a little off-putting, especially in Conall (smart, stubborn and rebellious) and Kaylin (Mistress of a secret rebel group). They felt feeble, uninspired and sloppy when they needed to be anything but - when I'd expected them to be anything but.
Then again, this is just the beginning of a much longer story, and I understand that the characters have yet to mature in their given roles. I am still very much interested in what would become of this world and the forbidden love story at the center of it now that demonic forces have been thrown into the equation.
Because despite its flaws, Fallen Love really did still shine in all of its strengths and proved to be a rather enjoyable, action-filled urban-fantasy that promises more chaos and conflict, surprises and (hopefully) victories in its next installments. ♥
I received a digital review copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.
February 6, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
The plot is chaotic and Fallen Love suffers from poor transitioning. The chapters lurch from action to action and often the story often struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative throughout. There is some world building, but given the complexity of the society the author has created, the book needed a lot more scaffolding. There just isn’t enough detail to explain and fully support everything happening on the page. The result is a mishmash that never really works. Part of the issue with this, I think, is that Fallen Love is trying to juggle too many paranormal, science fiction, and religious themes and they aren’t given enough space to really work. They needed more detail and a chance to breathe and that doesn’t happen here. The book is the start of a trilogy, so some of this may resolve itself as the series progresses.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
The plot is chaotic and Fallen Love suffers from poor transitioning. The chapters lurch from action to action and often the story often struggles to maintain a cohesive narrative throughout. There is some world building, but given the complexity of the society the author has created, the book needed a lot more scaffolding. There just isn’t enough detail to explain and fully support everything happening on the page. The result is a mishmash that never really works. Part of the issue with this, I think, is that Fallen Love is trying to juggle too many paranormal, science fiction, and religious themes and they aren’t given enough space to really work. They needed more detail and a chance to breathe and that doesn’t happen here. The book is the start of a trilogy, so some of this may resolve itself as the series progresses.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
January 24, 2020
Conall lives a life of luxurious indulgence. The world he lives in is full of vicious beasts and monsters. Only by staying in his protected city is he safe. One night after his dalliance at a whore house he hadn’t quite reached safety when he was set on. While trying to get away he stumbles on Mark. They rescue each other and Conall discovers Mark is much lower class than he is. Their attraction is undeniable and brings them back together.
Demons, angels, magic, and young love combine in an a strangely satisfying story. However it’s confusingly chaotic at times. World building was okay, but there’s that confusing thing again. Lots of people with different abilities to keep track of kind of pulled me out of the story a few times. Ends with a cliffhanger.
I liked the story but can’t exactly explain why.
I received an arc of this book.
Demons, angels, magic, and young love combine in an a strangely satisfying story. However it’s confusingly chaotic at times. World building was okay, but there’s that confusing thing again. Lots of people with different abilities to keep track of kind of pulled me out of the story a few times. Ends with a cliffhanger.
I liked the story but can’t exactly explain why.
I received an arc of this book.
February 10, 2020
I struggled with this one a lot. I couldn’t really get into it and then when I finally just started pushing through it got slightly better. I loved the world the author set up — it was fun.
But, some things really just made this one not work well for me. I enjoy insta love, I do, but this one was just too insta for me. I couldn’t really enjoy the build up because it wasn’t really there. And, then some of the decision making and the ultimate ending of the book led me to disappointment.
While this wasn’t a win for me I can appreciate the authors creation and how entertaining it was for me despite the flaws.
I think this one would work for someone who enjoys urban fantasy, doesn’t mind insta love or cliffhangers.
2.5 stars
♡ arc provided in exchange for an honest review ♡
But, some things really just made this one not work well for me. I enjoy insta love, I do, but this one was just too insta for me. I couldn’t really enjoy the build up because it wasn’t really there. And, then some of the decision making and the ultimate ending of the book led me to disappointment.
While this wasn’t a win for me I can appreciate the authors creation and how entertaining it was for me despite the flaws.
I think this one would work for someone who enjoys urban fantasy, doesn’t mind insta love or cliffhangers.
2.5 stars
♡ arc provided in exchange for an honest review ♡
October 13, 2019
Whew! Writing this book was a hell of a ride. But then, to borrow a few words from Patrick Rothfuss, my opinion on this matter shouldn’t be trusted. I have done what I can; I have poured all of my imagination and grief into these characters, this world, and this story. It is time for you, the reader, to be the judge.
Oh, and by the way: whoever said writing your second book would be easier than the first was wrong. Yes, experience has helped a lot with the writing process, but the story still has to come from somewhere, ya know? And publishing is still hard work, whichever way you go.
Oh, and by the way: whoever said writing your second book would be easier than the first was wrong. Yes, experience has helped a lot with the writing process, but the story still has to come from somewhere, ya know? And publishing is still hard work, whichever way you go.
July 1, 2021
Fallen Love by Alex Stargazer is the first book in a new series, Fallen. It is an Urban fantasy novel with paranormal aspects, suspense, action, magic, and romance. A wonderful and captivating story, amazing characters... this book does a fantastic job building anticipation for future books in the series. Connall and Mark are great characters and I really enjoyed reading about themand the world created here.
February 10, 2020
This new-to-me author has written a fascinating, incredible, intense, wild, amazing, unconventional, completely unexpected, fantastic, grab-you-by-the-feels, smoldering, and totally awesome start to an intriguing new series. I can't wait to see what happens next.
November 23, 2021
This story is fascinating but I felt a little lost reading it in parts. This world the author has created is an interesting future dystopia. The two main characters were well thought out but I felt like the side characters all had some agenda and wanted something from both of them. Which is technically true, I guess. Even Kaylin. I didn’t really underhow they all worked together and the way it jumped around left me lost a little bit. I love the overall concept and storyline though. Mark and Conall are going to have to seriously fight for their happy ending. Mark, due to the circumstances of his birth and totally beyond his control, has lived as part of the lowest class and is struggling to simply survive. He has seen the worst of what their society has to offer. Conall is part of the extremely privileged upper class and doesn’t need or want for anything, except perhaps a personal connection. These two learn there is definitely more to their existence than they could possibly have ever imagined. They are both pawns in a much bigger game. It’s worth a read and I am going to go read the second book. I have to know how this one turns out.
July 21, 2021
After reading the synopsis of this book I was really looking forward to reading it and,I am happy to say I loved it!
Brilliant blend of genres,excellent world building,great characters,this book had me hooked straight from the beginning.
I don't want to give spoilers for this,I want to give readers the chance to dive in and discover this absolute delight.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
Brilliant blend of genres,excellent world building,great characters,this book had me hooked straight from the beginning.
I don't want to give spoilers for this,I want to give readers the chance to dive in and discover this absolute delight.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review
July 21, 2021
This is a new author for me but one I certainly intend to follow. This book is an expert mix of the hirt/comfort romance trope with a dystopian world that is incredibly well realized, an LGBTQ romance and an astounding mix of paranormal characters and their powers. Watching Conall and Mark tey to have a relationship while battling class differences and some seriously evil villains was an amazing ride and I have book two in hand now to binge read.
November 21, 2021
I so very much wanted to love Fallen. It has all the tropes I enjoy: dystopian, paranormals, class difference, hurt/comfort. But all these tropes didn't really mesh together well. I felt the world building was lacking so I was kind of confused of what I was reading. The main characters, Mark and Conall were likable enough but didn't hold my interest. And their romance didn't do for me. I'm not a big fan of insta-love but this insta-love just didn't make sense to me. I couldn't feel their romance. I probably should give it more like a 2 stars but there are worse books I've read recently.
July 19, 2021
Wow! Drop the mic! This book was AMAZING! I wasn't sure what to expect and I was in awe from page one. I also read book two and WOW! Conall and Mark's story was unbelievable! I read an advanced copy of this book and this is my unbiased review! This one is a keeper!
February 7, 2020
Title: Fallen Love
Author: Alex Stargazer
Publisher: Stargzer Industries Inc.
ISBN: not available yet
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Fallen-Love-An...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Fallen 1
Two boys falling in love. A power that can save the world—or ruin it. Mark must make a choice: to save the man he loves, or to let the world burn.
There are many kinds of monster that walk the Earth. Some are ugly. Some speak beautiful words through forked tongues. Some possess the grace of angels, and the hearts of demons...
Upperclassman Conall is rich, impeccably dressed, and set for a prestigious career in the Party hierarchy. He doesn’t lack for anything—except, maybe, love.
When he finds Mark, alone, abandoned and hurt, he doesn’t expect one act of kindness to alter the course of his life forever. For Mark is more than just beautiful; he has the spirit of a warrior, and his heart is divine. He has the power to save Ireland from the tyranny of the Party—or to to condemn it to something far worse.
Fallen Love is packed full of magical action, futuristic technology, and diverse characters. Demons and unscrupulous politicians face off against witches and ordinary, determined humans. If you like romance that’s dark and funny at the same time, this is the story for you!
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Mark may live in the City of Angels, but all he has known is hardship. There is a law which states that any child who is deserted by his/her parents is relegated to live as a Fallen, the lowest rung of society that limits any chance of a better life. The only thing Mark has is his belief in himself and limited help from his uncle.
Unfortunately, things go from bad to worse, leaving Mark beaten up, and unable to protect himself from the mutants who were about to kill him. A miracle happened when Conall noticed him while walking through the Fallen Quarter. Conall may be a member of the upper society, but he can't walk by knowing the young man would die; though neither expected that one act of kindness could change both of their lives forever. There is more to Mark than even he knows—and those differences could set a new direction for both of their lives.
It was fascinating to experience the changes that occurred in Conall and Mark as their mutual interest blossomed into love—a bond that will be tested when outside forces threaten everything they care about. The paranormal aspects of this book added incredible twists in ways that were completely unexpected. This was an incredible story and I will be waiting for the next book in the series.
Author: Alex Stargazer
Publisher: Stargzer Industries Inc.
ISBN: not available yet
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Fallen-Love-An...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
Fallen 1
Two boys falling in love. A power that can save the world—or ruin it. Mark must make a choice: to save the man he loves, or to let the world burn.
There are many kinds of monster that walk the Earth. Some are ugly. Some speak beautiful words through forked tongues. Some possess the grace of angels, and the hearts of demons...
Upperclassman Conall is rich, impeccably dressed, and set for a prestigious career in the Party hierarchy. He doesn’t lack for anything—except, maybe, love.
When he finds Mark, alone, abandoned and hurt, he doesn’t expect one act of kindness to alter the course of his life forever. For Mark is more than just beautiful; he has the spirit of a warrior, and his heart is divine. He has the power to save Ireland from the tyranny of the Party—or to to condemn it to something far worse.
Fallen Love is packed full of magical action, futuristic technology, and diverse characters. Demons and unscrupulous politicians face off against witches and ordinary, determined humans. If you like romance that’s dark and funny at the same time, this is the story for you!
Total Score: 5/5
Summary:
Mark may live in the City of Angels, but all he has known is hardship. There is a law which states that any child who is deserted by his/her parents is relegated to live as a Fallen, the lowest rung of society that limits any chance of a better life. The only thing Mark has is his belief in himself and limited help from his uncle.
Unfortunately, things go from bad to worse, leaving Mark beaten up, and unable to protect himself from the mutants who were about to kill him. A miracle happened when Conall noticed him while walking through the Fallen Quarter. Conall may be a member of the upper society, but he can't walk by knowing the young man would die; though neither expected that one act of kindness could change both of their lives forever. There is more to Mark than even he knows—and those differences could set a new direction for both of their lives.
It was fascinating to experience the changes that occurred in Conall and Mark as their mutual interest blossomed into love—a bond that will be tested when outside forces threaten everything they care about. The paranormal aspects of this book added incredible twists in ways that were completely unexpected. This was an incredible story and I will be waiting for the next book in the series.
June 6, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Alex Stargazer’s latest book, Fallen Love. I was looking for a new fantasy book/series, with elements of romance. This fit the bill. Plus, I got to be a part of his crowd fund group through Kickstarter. I had to wait quite a while to receive the paperback, but it was well worth the wait. This story captured my interest right away, which is no small matter. Because stories have so many elements to them, I feel it’s only fair to break down my review into four categories: Plot, Prose, Character Development, and Originality. Overall, Fallen Love deserves a solid 4 out of 5 stars. I’m greatly looking forward to reading the next in the series: Fallen Desire. But I’m getting ahead of myself . . .
Plot 4/5
The introduction of Conall and Mark starts the story off at breakneck speed. They’re being chased by Scarabs—very nasty, ugly creatures. The story then fades to a slower pace, and Alex does a fantastic job of creating a tantalizing build. A lot of mystery surrounds the character of Mark. He doesn’t know much of his origins. Only that his mother died, while giving birth to him. Mark’s father abandoned him. And so he ended up being raised by his uncle, his mother’s brother. Because of being an orphan, his class was downgraded to Fallen. In contrast, Conall is a rich boy, an Upperclassman, around the age of 19 (I think). He’s been given excess, his whole life. Yet he isn’t conceited. This was something I truly loved about the character of Conall. Pure of heart, even while being raised in that wealthy lifestyle. He does on occasion come off as a partier, but that only adds to his charm. The context is everything. You’ll just have to read the book, to see what I mean.
Then there’s the character of Kaylin. She is a powerhouse. Very deep personality. Always tries to see the big picture of what’s happening around her. She dabbles in magic, throughout. Her Vision ability is both awesome and horrifying. She mostly Sees in the timeframe very close to her own position in time. She also has telepathic abilities. Overall, she’s a great main character, as are Mark and Conall.
By the halfway point of the story, I literally couldn’t put the book down. I binged about 200 pages or so in one day, which is a rarity for me. Like I said earlier, though, Alex does a great job of keeping the story pace at tantalizing levels. Just when the tempo starts to wane, something happens to drive intrigue back into it.
The docked star for plot would be that Mark’s history isn’t brought up early enough for Alex to flesh out more things regarding Mark’s character. This is more personal preference, than anything. By the halfway point of the story, a lot is going on. So, I get why Alex had to put some things on hold. I’m hoping to see more explored on that, in the next book.
Prose/Style & Grammar 3/5
I’ll keep this section short. The prose is good. At times, fun. I like the similes Alex uses. Sometimes authors make them awkward. But I didn’t experience that at all, with Fallen Love. Each simile/comparison that the viewpoint character made was tailored to them. Each character has a unique voice. You can almost tell who the viewpoint character is, simply by how their narrative is structured and worded.
If it weren’t for the consistent spelling and punctuation slipups, I’d be giving this section 5 out of 5. However, fair’s fair. I can’t overlook that this book needed another proofreading or two, to catch the simple but obvious mistakes.
Character Development 4/5
The development of the main characters is excellent, aside from Mark, and a character introduced much later in the story by the name of Michael. A lot more could’ve been done with Michael’s character. My only hope is that he will be in the sequel more than he was in Fallen Love.
I do wish there had been a few more supporting characters or that the supporting characters introduced, ones such as Diana and Declan, had more “screen time.” Shadow was another standout character that could’ve played a bigger role. This story is grand enough to give the supporting cast more depth, without detracting from the main storyline. But, again, this comes down to personal preference.
On a side note, potential readers should know that this book is not in the erotica genre. If you’re expecting a sex-filled story, look elsewhere. While this does have romance—same-sex intimacy, some really steamy scenes, and a few sex scenes—that’s not the primary focus of this story. There are also some rather tragic, violent moments. I wouldn’t recommend that any reader younger than sixteen read this book, maybe a mature fourteen or fifteen-year-old. Some of the themes are dark, but very realistic. The story wouldn’t have the impact that it does, if the violence had been downplayed at all. Just thought I’d warn you, though, please don’t be letting your immature thirteen-year-old read this book. Oh, and there are a lot of F-bombs. If that bothers you too much, again, look elsewhere.
Originality 5/5
Oh my gosh, the originality! Absolutely refreshing! Fallen Love is a blend of many familiar stories, almost like it has an echo of them. Yet it is a powerful story in its own right, with its own foundation, its own unique characters, and so many novel things. The stories I was reminded of are mainstream. Books like Hunger Games, with its politics and class system. While HG has districts, Fallen Love has quarters; the Fallen Quarter, Middle Quarter, and the Upper Quarter. Though FL isn’t about politics, right away, it leads into that and then . . . other things. But I don’t want to ruin the surprise. It’s best if you just read how it all plays out for yourself.
There’s a wonderful blend of futuristic technology and magic. Initially, the tech takes the stage. But more magic is brought in, farther along in the story, mostly through Kaylin’s character. The Black Book is one of the most intriguing parts of the magic in Fallen Love. I have a feeling it’ll be in the sequel far more than it was in this one.
I hope you have a better idea if Alex Stargazer’s book is for you. Regardless, I recommend that you give Fallen Love a go. Thanks for reading my long review all the way to the end.
Plot 4/5
The introduction of Conall and Mark starts the story off at breakneck speed. They’re being chased by Scarabs—very nasty, ugly creatures. The story then fades to a slower pace, and Alex does a fantastic job of creating a tantalizing build. A lot of mystery surrounds the character of Mark. He doesn’t know much of his origins. Only that his mother died, while giving birth to him. Mark’s father abandoned him. And so he ended up being raised by his uncle, his mother’s brother. Because of being an orphan, his class was downgraded to Fallen. In contrast, Conall is a rich boy, an Upperclassman, around the age of 19 (I think). He’s been given excess, his whole life. Yet he isn’t conceited. This was something I truly loved about the character of Conall. Pure of heart, even while being raised in that wealthy lifestyle. He does on occasion come off as a partier, but that only adds to his charm. The context is everything. You’ll just have to read the book, to see what I mean.
Then there’s the character of Kaylin. She is a powerhouse. Very deep personality. Always tries to see the big picture of what’s happening around her. She dabbles in magic, throughout. Her Vision ability is both awesome and horrifying. She mostly Sees in the timeframe very close to her own position in time. She also has telepathic abilities. Overall, she’s a great main character, as are Mark and Conall.
By the halfway point of the story, I literally couldn’t put the book down. I binged about 200 pages or so in one day, which is a rarity for me. Like I said earlier, though, Alex does a great job of keeping the story pace at tantalizing levels. Just when the tempo starts to wane, something happens to drive intrigue back into it.
The docked star for plot would be that Mark’s history isn’t brought up early enough for Alex to flesh out more things regarding Mark’s character. This is more personal preference, than anything. By the halfway point of the story, a lot is going on. So, I get why Alex had to put some things on hold. I’m hoping to see more explored on that, in the next book.
Prose/Style & Grammar 3/5
I’ll keep this section short. The prose is good. At times, fun. I like the similes Alex uses. Sometimes authors make them awkward. But I didn’t experience that at all, with Fallen Love. Each simile/comparison that the viewpoint character made was tailored to them. Each character has a unique voice. You can almost tell who the viewpoint character is, simply by how their narrative is structured and worded.
If it weren’t for the consistent spelling and punctuation slipups, I’d be giving this section 5 out of 5. However, fair’s fair. I can’t overlook that this book needed another proofreading or two, to catch the simple but obvious mistakes.
Character Development 4/5
The development of the main characters is excellent, aside from Mark, and a character introduced much later in the story by the name of Michael. A lot more could’ve been done with Michael’s character. My only hope is that he will be in the sequel more than he was in Fallen Love.
I do wish there had been a few more supporting characters or that the supporting characters introduced, ones such as Diana and Declan, had more “screen time.” Shadow was another standout character that could’ve played a bigger role. This story is grand enough to give the supporting cast more depth, without detracting from the main storyline. But, again, this comes down to personal preference.
On a side note, potential readers should know that this book is not in the erotica genre. If you’re expecting a sex-filled story, look elsewhere. While this does have romance—same-sex intimacy, some really steamy scenes, and a few sex scenes—that’s not the primary focus of this story. There are also some rather tragic, violent moments. I wouldn’t recommend that any reader younger than sixteen read this book, maybe a mature fourteen or fifteen-year-old. Some of the themes are dark, but very realistic. The story wouldn’t have the impact that it does, if the violence had been downplayed at all. Just thought I’d warn you, though, please don’t be letting your immature thirteen-year-old read this book. Oh, and there are a lot of F-bombs. If that bothers you too much, again, look elsewhere.
Originality 5/5
Oh my gosh, the originality! Absolutely refreshing! Fallen Love is a blend of many familiar stories, almost like it has an echo of them. Yet it is a powerful story in its own right, with its own foundation, its own unique characters, and so many novel things. The stories I was reminded of are mainstream. Books like Hunger Games, with its politics and class system. While HG has districts, Fallen Love has quarters; the Fallen Quarter, Middle Quarter, and the Upper Quarter. Though FL isn’t about politics, right away, it leads into that and then . . . other things. But I don’t want to ruin the surprise. It’s best if you just read how it all plays out for yourself.
There’s a wonderful blend of futuristic technology and magic. Initially, the tech takes the stage. But more magic is brought in, farther along in the story, mostly through Kaylin’s character. The Black Book is one of the most intriguing parts of the magic in Fallen Love. I have a feeling it’ll be in the sequel far more than it was in this one.
I hope you have a better idea if Alex Stargazer’s book is for you. Regardless, I recommend that you give Fallen Love a go. Thanks for reading my long review all the way to the end.
November 14, 2019
An urban fantasy with angels, demons, a brutal class system and then throw in intriguing, and strong characters. This is what you get in Fallen Love, a book about love in unexpected places if you only allow yourself to be open to finding it. Conall is the upper classman, he is surrounded by powerful people and he himself wields a great deal. Mark is a fallen, as far from power as one can get in this post-apocalyptic world. When the two meet they will have to make some hard choices and underneath it all come to terms with their feelings for each other in a world that forbids them from even frequenting the same areas.
This was interesting, I am slowly discovering more M/M authors and this one will certainly be included in my to-read category. The writing was a little rough to get into, but I found the authors rhythm around the 25% mark and was able to follow along. The characters were definitely in the “opposites attract” category but that did not lessen the appeal of the book.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was interesting, I am slowly discovering more M/M authors and this one will certainly be included in my to-read category. The writing was a little rough to get into, but I found the authors rhythm around the 25% mark and was able to follow along. The characters were definitely in the “opposites attract” category but that did not lessen the appeal of the book.
I received a free ARC from BookSirens in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 1, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book. The author, admittedly, has given a great importance to particulars, with a lot of information about the dystopian/fantasy world he has created. I found an impressive outline of politics and social structure, as well as detailed descriptions of people and environment. But, at times, they felt disjointed, other times things felt overlooked or ever explained.
I also have my doubts about the relationship between Mark and Collan. I didn't much like Collan. I think he's a bored, rich kid who just wants some excitement. And he gets that from going to the slumps, so to speak. I mostly felt that, for him, pursuing something with Mark gave him the thrill of braking the rules, rather than having a real connection with the other young man.
All things considered, perhaps it's me, and I just couldn't get a good grip on the story. There's a lot happening in Fallen Love and I definitely recommend it, and maybe other readers will love it.
I also have my doubts about the relationship between Mark and Collan. I didn't much like Collan. I think he's a bored, rich kid who just wants some excitement. And he gets that from going to the slumps, so to speak. I mostly felt that, for him, pursuing something with Mark gave him the thrill of braking the rules, rather than having a real connection with the other young man.
All things considered, perhaps it's me, and I just couldn't get a good grip on the story. There's a lot happening in Fallen Love and I definitely recommend it, and maybe other readers will love it.
February 5, 2020
First of all, before I even get to my review I want to talk about that cover! How freaking amazing is that! It's gorgeous! Okay, now that I have that out of the way I can get to the book. I love a good book that has magic in it and when you also throw in some angel, demon, and technology in it, that is just three different flavors of ice cream on top.
This isn't the first book that I have read by this author and I'm sure it won't be the last. He has a way with world-building that is just incredible. It's so crazy that he is so talented while being so young. I didn't find my writing voice until much later in life, so good for you Alex!
This book was nothing short of amazing. I loved the characters, the action, it's safe to say I loved everything about this book. I hope to see more in this series because I'm hooked.
This isn't the first book that I have read by this author and I'm sure it won't be the last. He has a way with world-building that is just incredible. It's so crazy that he is so talented while being so young. I didn't find my writing voice until much later in life, so good for you Alex!
This book was nothing short of amazing. I loved the characters, the action, it's safe to say I loved everything about this book. I hope to see more in this series because I'm hooked.
July 15, 2021
2.5 stars
There's so much going on in this novel and as a result, the heart is missing. It's also a multiple POV story, which is well executed, however I find it frustrating when authors don't make this clear in the blurb.
I admired the world building, and found the premise interesting. I have no doubt that the author has a sharp intelligence, to have written this by age 19.
I just couldn't connect with any of the characters, all the relationships felt forced and disingenuous (with the exception of that between Mark and his Uncle). Without this connection, I struggled to maintain interest in reading the story.
The ending is also unsatisfactory, with a lot of character actions that don't make sense.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
There's so much going on in this novel and as a result, the heart is missing. It's also a multiple POV story, which is well executed, however I find it frustrating when authors don't make this clear in the blurb.
I admired the world building, and found the premise interesting. I have no doubt that the author has a sharp intelligence, to have written this by age 19.
I just couldn't connect with any of the characters, all the relationships felt forced and disingenuous (with the exception of that between Mark and his Uncle). Without this connection, I struggled to maintain interest in reading the story.
The ending is also unsatisfactory, with a lot of character actions that don't make sense.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and I have chosen to leave an honest review.
November 30, 2019
3,5 stars!
I enjoyed this! The characters were fun and complex and you can’t help but root for them.
My high praises will have to go to the world-building. Imaginative and mesmerizing. A well-crafted world with an interesting integration of paranormal and dystopian elements.
However, it took me a while to get into the feel of the book. I was slightly confused at the beginning, but after the 20% mark, I flew through it. I found Mark and Conall to be a bit tropey, and their romance was a bit too fast for my liking, but I enjoyed their moments together.
Overall, a fun and action-packed read! I would recommend if you’re wanting a dark, urban fantasy with a cast of characters that you can’t help but love.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this! The characters were fun and complex and you can’t help but root for them.
My high praises will have to go to the world-building. Imaginative and mesmerizing. A well-crafted world with an interesting integration of paranormal and dystopian elements.
However, it took me a while to get into the feel of the book. I was slightly confused at the beginning, but after the 20% mark, I flew through it. I found Mark and Conall to be a bit tropey, and their romance was a bit too fast for my liking, but I enjoyed their moments together.
Overall, a fun and action-packed read! I would recommend if you’re wanting a dark, urban fantasy with a cast of characters that you can’t help but love.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2019
This book was like a rollercoaster! There was an appreciated slow ascent as we got to know the characters, and then zoom! The second half of the book was fast paced and thoroughly enjoyable!
The plot was both fresh and imaginative, and though I'm not the biggest fan of multiple narrators, in this novel I found I couldn't wait to get back to each character's chapters.
I can barely wait for the next one! Hoping we'll see more of Conall's mother, she was my favourite!
The plot was both fresh and imaginative, and though I'm not the biggest fan of multiple narrators, in this novel I found I couldn't wait to get back to each character's chapters.
I can barely wait for the next one! Hoping we'll see more of Conall's mother, she was my favourite!
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