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Stay a Spell #2

Don't Hex and Drive

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Notoriously bad at peopling, Isadora Savoie spends most of her time in the greenhouse or at the local animal shelter, using her Conduit powers of growth and healing. Content to remain in the background of the Savoie sister shenanigans, she’s reluctantly roped into the mystery of missing neighborhood girls. Now, she’s partnered with a flashy, flirty vampire to find them before it’s too late.

Devraj Kumar has seen and done it all. Three hundred years roaming the earth as a Stygorn — a legendary vampire warrior who operates in the shadows — has its perks. But ennui has set in. That is, until he has a run-in — literally — with an intriguing witch while on a new assignment in New Orleans. Fascinated by her resistance to his charms, Devraj can’t help but push her buttons in an effort to get to know the shy witch. Fortunately for him, she’s been recruited by the Lord of Vampires to assist Devraj on the case.

Between a Bollywood marathon, supernatural dating app, secret package, and sexy driving instruction, Isadora is in over her head. And Devraj? After just one taste, he’s playing for keeps.

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 8, 2020

1521 people are currently reading
11893 people want to read

About the author

Juliette Cross

46 books4,459 followers
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JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.

Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...

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Profile Image for Kat valentine ( Katsbookcornerreads).
761 reviews1,241 followers
December 12, 2022
VAMPIRES,WITCHES AND VIBRATORS! OH! MY!

Another fabulous story from the amazingly talented storyteller and writer Juliette Cross!!! If you thought hot werewolf Mateo was sexy wait till you meet Isadora's hot new vampire Devraj who not only happens to be a famous bollywood leading man who's sexy with long dark hair and beautiful whiskey warm brown eyes who has the face of a angel,but is one of the most dangerous and powerful of vampires. Devraj is a stygorn a ancient race of vampire with the ability to hunt down any prey,so when he comes to New Orleans to help Ruben find the blood traffickers who are behind the taking of human women. He no sooner pulls into town and accidentally hits Isadora on her bike. From that moment on its a battle of wills between this beautiful witch and hunky hot vampire! I love these two characters so much!!! Fabulous chemistry and loads hot sexy heat. Devraj sets out to bed isadora,but it becomes more.Women have always been plenty and many but with isadora not only doesn't she fall at his feet ,she's immune to his charm and glamour and could care less who he is. He might be rich and famous with a expensive car and clothes but to her he's just a typical full of him self vampire. But she soon finds out theirs nothing typical about this sexy vamp! I love isadora and can identify with her character and loved finding out more about this private and shy sister. This series is fabulous and so far I've loved all of the different characters from the savioe witches and yes I will admit free spirited and resident foul mouth sister violet is my fave!!! I love this wicked and funny witch! Then theirs ruben, vampire overlord of new orleans with all kinds of dark dominant vibes and I love his and jules continued game of cat and mouse!!! Lord ! I can't wait for their book! I can almost guarantee that their story is gonna be epic with lots of hot sex and kindle melting action! And new character henry Blackwater a black haired,black eyed tech geek and grim is so very intriguing.He's the grim that has been watching clara from a distance! Juliette Cross books have it all passion,love,humor and the thing that keeps me coming back, the happy ending!!! The storytelling is awesome and her paranormal men are always drool worthy. Can't wait for book 3 Witches Get Stitches! It's Nico and Violet's book!!! Until next time Luv's💕💋
Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].
2,942 reviews25.3k followers
August 9, 2020
stay a spell juliette cross - Google Search

Don’t Hex and Drive is book two in the Stay a Spell series by Juliette Cross. In this book, we are going to focus on the quietest Savoie sister, Isadora and a very sexy vampire who has his sights set on her.



Isadora Savoie will tell you she’s not a hermit, she’s just introverted. Her sisters are all outgoing, but she prefers to stay in the background, working in her greenhouse, using her flowers and herbs to make healing balms and teas. Isadora and her sisters are witches, all powerful. Isadora is a conduit, she can heal. Her other passion is visiting the adorable pets who reside at the town’s animal shelter. She loves spending time there and giving the dogs just a touch of her magic to heal their bodies and souls.

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Devraj Kumar is a three hundred year old, powerful Stygorn vampire, one of an elite group of vampires with very strong abilities. Recently, four young women have disappeared in their city and a vampire is suspected as the culprit. Devraj was asked by his good friend and leader of the vampires in New Orleans, Ruben, to help solve the girls’ disappearances.

Devraj moves frequently from job to job where his special abilities are needed. He’s never had anything make him question his life, although secretly he does long for a real home, friends, and maybe even love. As soon as he sees the shy, quiet Isadora, he is intrigued. Something draws him to her, makes him want to know her, to try to draw her out. He can’t seem to stop thinking about her, finding ways to cross paths with her. But then when he finally gets a taste of her, there’s no going back. She’s his. She just doesn’t know it yet.

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“There’d been a lot of things that made my pulse quicken over the ages, but a woman’s smile hadn’t been one of them. Till now.”

As Devraj works to get to know Isadora better, a beautiful thing happens, she gains confidence, she finds there are some things about herself she never really knew. And there is one thing I need to tell you here. When these two finally get together, they…are…HOT!!! I might even venture to say that the scenes when these two are together might just be the hottest I’ve read in any of this author’s books! I don’t know if it was their strong connection, Juliette’s beautiful writing, or just the way they made me feel. But there was some serious swooning happening here!

“You don’t want the world to see too much of you. But I see you.”
“What do you see?”
“A lovely woman who knows the meaning of humility and kindness and true beauty.”


writing with a quill gif - Google Search

Devraj is determined to win Isadora’s heart. But Isadora knows that when the case is solved, Devraj will move on, it’s what he does. Can she just live in the moment, enjoy him while she can? Or is it too much of a risk to her heart?

“She hid from the world, doing her good deeds without the need for notice or praise. I wanted her more with each passing minute.”

I loved this so much. The relationship between these two builds slowly, and at the same time, they are working on finding and saving the four missing girls and taking down the vampires responsible. We also get to know the other sisters even better in this. I particularly enjoy the ongoing chemistry between Ruben and Isadora’s sister, Jules. This is such a fun, smexy, swoony series and I am so looking forward to the next book.

“This woman. Her body. Her soul. I wanted it all.”

For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...

Profile Image for Aisling Zena.
634 reviews516 followers
September 20, 2020
Now Published 8/9/20!

5 stars


Review Now Posted, 16/8/2020

I'm not exaggerating when I say that Juliette Cross saved me with this ARC. I had fallen into a black vortex of bad books due to my own stupid curiosity and boy, did I pay for it. I dove in this book like someone lost in the Sahara stumbling in an oasis. It made for such a welcome change and I've been waiting for it with bated breath since I finished the first one. I loved the effortless worldbuilding in the first book and I loved returning to it.

Actually, sat down at 2 am googling images and making notes for this the second I finished reading. Was forced to go to sleep by hubby asking what on earth I was doing on the pc in the early morning hours as I was literally nodding off on the keyboard. But I just had to write stuff down, if I could have, I would have stayed up to write this, I was that happy. This book made me so happy that I wanted to sacrifice my sleep, not to read but to write and share my giddiness with you. I think what I love most about these books is that the drama llama doesn't make an appearance. Yes, there was tension and chemistry and push and pull but no unnecessary dragged out drama just for the sake of it.

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Isadora is the sweet, quiet, introvert sister in a family of boisterous people. She's shy and giving, happiest in her garden, planting, making herb bundles or at the animal shelter sharing magic and love to the dogs stuck there. Her telekinesis and psychic abilities are weak and even though she is a powerful Conduit and confident in her powers, some times that made her feel frustrated in comparison to her more magically active sisters.

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When Devraj knocks her off her bicycle he shocks her out of her safe routine. She doesn't like strangers, feels out of place when she has to interact with people but the accident shoves her right out of her comfort zone and that combined with a gorgeous, obviously rich male, along with the fact he is a vampire makes her defensive and prickly. She gets caught up in appearances but slowly Devraj shows her that appearances are misleading and there is so much more to him that what he appears to be.

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Devraj on the other hand is instantly taken by her. As well as being a Stygorn Vampire, a stronger vampire than most, he was a famous Bollywood actor for a spell and filled his life with superficial entertainments. He becomes aware, after his last mission where he was forced to be alone in the mountains, that his life is lacking. Seeing Isadora and her sisters hammers the point home to him. After 300 years of existence, hunting and roaming the earth he realizes he is lonely and craves a home. Throughout the book he introspects and sees how he wants to change his life and that his attraction to Isadora is anything but shallow. She calls to something in him. And he will not give up until he changes her opinion of him and make Isadora his in all the ways.

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Devraj and Isadora were the stars of this book and they shone so brightly. The building of their relationship from antagonistic to love, their attraction and chemistry, getting to know each other yet also seeing within themselves in the process was an absolute joy to read. Nothing made me happier than their interactions. Teaming up to find out who is behind the missing girls added an element of suspense in the plot and also pushed their relationship forward.

I don't know what more to say. I feel like I should gush some more because this book made me so genuinely happy that I still have a goofy grin on my face while writing this. If you love PNR I wholeheartedly recommend this. I cannot wait to see more of the sisters powers in action and to read about Violet and Nico, Jules and her delicious vampire, Ruben and someone (Clara?maybe Livvy) has to snap up that divine tatted up Grim! This is one series I intend to follow closely. Again many, many thanks to Juliette Cross for this ARC. Thank you so much for trusting me.

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P.S. Also loving that I got to use Bollywood gifs!


13/8/2020

This lovely author offered me an ARC!!!! YAY!!

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**ARC kindly provided by the lovely author, Juliette Cross, in exchange for an honest review.


9/8/2020

Got rejected for an ARC..

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17/2/2020

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Profile Image for Angie.
538 reviews6,366 followers
December 17, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ Hot damn this was sexy! My favorite of the series!

-

"I was going to ask you if you wanted me to fuck you hard or nice and slow. But I figured out what you want. What you need."

"Oh, yeah? What do I need?"

"Everything," he whispered against my skin. "And I'm going to give it to you."


-

Summary:

When human women start going missing in New Orleans and it is suspected rogue vampires are behind it, the Lord of Vampires calls Devraj Kumar - a legendary vampire warrior - to help. After three hundred years roaming the earth, Devraj has done it all and has become a bit jaded and lonely. That is, till he accidentally hits the elusive Isadora Savoie with his expensive sports car.

Isadora doesn't like dealing with people, preferring to keep to her greenhouse or the local animal shelter, using her Conduit powers of growth and healing. She especially doesn't like the flashy, flirty vampires who pushes her buttons and won't leave her alone. But when she reluctantly gets roped into helping Devraj find the missing girls, Isadora realizes maybe there's more to this sexy, infuriating vampire than she originally thought.


WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ new orleans setting
✨ paranormal romance
✨ creatures: witches, werewolves, vampire, grim reapers
✨ she’s a down to earth, introverted witch with trust issues
✨ he’s a extrovert, ex-bollywood actor and ancient warrior vampire filled with loneliness
✨ meet-ugly: he hits her with his car
✨ dislike to friends to lovers
✨ opposites attract
✨ forced proximity
✨ a bit of pride and prejudice vibes
✨ he falls first
✨ teasing and tension
✨ fated mates
✨ 3/5 🌶️ (open door/explicit)
✨ close knit family
✨ mystery
✨ plot twist
✨ dual POV
✨ HEA


My Thoughts:

I didn't know it was possible but I loved this one even more than the first book! This story moved at a quicker pace and had even more spice (who could complain about that???).


So what exactly did I love?


The meet cute! I mean, who doesn't love when the story starts with the MMC not hitting on the FMC but hitting her with his sports car. 🙈 Isadora was SUPER pissed at Devraj while Devraj was a little irritated and intrigued by Isadora. Their tense first encounter sets up their story so perfectly! They honestly gave me a little Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy vibes, and the author even mentioned the Pride and Prejudice (2005) film, so I'm pretty sure this story was meant to emulate it a little bit.


Isadora and Devraj are so much fun! Isadora is a homely, nature loving, introverted witch who is perfectly capable of keeping herself satisfied . . . until she meets Devraj. Devraj is an extremely attractive, elite vampire warrior and a retired Bollywood star who likes nice things but yearns to settle down. These two are complete opposites in every way, but can't help but feel drawn to each other. I really enjoyed the tension and how Isadora was adamant about keeping her distance but Devraj was persistent in his pursuit. The push and pull dynamic was entertaining and kept me on my toes - especially since Devraj made such a swoon-worthy suitor.


The romance. While the cat and mouse chase was, the actual love was so beautiful. They are the definition of soulmates. Where Isadora was looking for someone who could encourage and love her, Devraj finally found someone and somewhere he could call home. They complete each other. 💕

The main romantic 'issue' was centered on a miscommunication or misperception of the truth, BUT it's only because Devraj didn't know he needed to spell it out to Isadora that he wanted her forever. So instead, she constantly pushes him away knowing if she gives herself completely to Devraj and he leaves, it would break her. I usually don't like miscommunication but knowing the character's fears and desires, it made sense and wasn't overly dramatic or drawn out.

Devraj's declaration of love at the end, while some think it's cheesy, totally makes sense with his flare for the dramatic and past in Bollywood. I can't say exactly what happens without spoiling things, but I hope you find it just as sweet and fun as I did!


The spice. There are (I believe) five sex scenes and every single one SLAPS! Devraj is the ultimate partner who worships Isadora. At one point he makes her come so hard she fucking faint. Talk about a sex god. Oh, and he has a tongue piercing, and, of course, since he's a vampire, there's biting! These scenes live in my head rent free and I 100% will go back to them for inspo (if you catch my meaning). 😜


The mystery/investigation plot and continued world- building. I think it's fun that Isadora and Devraj team up to figure out who is behind the kidnappings in New Orleans because it gave us some forced proximity and allowed for Devraj's possessive side to come out when Isadora puts herself in danger. I also enjoyed learning more about the paranormal creatures in this world - witches, vampires, grims, and werewolves - but especially vampires and their history/society. Juliette Cross continues to do a really amazing job of being informative without info dumping. 👏


The Savoie sisters. Throughout this story, we get more glimpses into the other sister's lives, and witness a healthy and loving family dynamic. Each sister is unique, not only in their power but their personality, so it was nice getting to know them better. I cannot wait for all of their stories!


Overall, Don't Hex and Drive is a fun, sexy, and thrilling paranormal romance that will have you smiling and swooning from start to finish. It's now my favorite book of the series and I can't wait to read the rest. This series is perfect to read any time of year and it's free on Kindle Unlimited, so download this immediately!


Stay A Spell Series + Ratings:

1. Wolf Gone Wild: 4 ⭐️
2. Don't Hex and Drive: 4.5 ⭐️
3. Witches Get Stitches: 2.5 ⭐️
3.5: Walking in a Witchy Wonderland: 4 ⭐️
4. Always Practice Safe Hex: 3.5⭐️
5. Resting Witch Face: 4 ⭐️
6. Grim and Bear It: 4 ⭐️

-

Favorite Quotes:

Christ. One smile, and I was devastated. Lost. Swimming in an ocean of what-the-fuck.
_______

"I can take care of myself just fine."
She meant take care of her own pleasure just fine. My pants grew tighter while I imagined taking care of her in my own way.
"I'm sure you can." I leaned forward, forearms braced on the table. "But I'd like to apply for the job."
_______

This craving felt different. I didn’t just want her body, or her blood, if I was to be completely honest with myself. Just being in her presence, soaking up her smiles and sweet company, was feeding a hunger I didn’t realize I had.
_______

His body was a love letter of perfection.
_______

I felt adrift. Unmoored. Lost to any other purpose but the one that mattered. Her.
_______

Fucking hell. This woman. Her body. Her soul. I wanted it all.
_______

Imagining a life here with her at my side filled that aching loneliness I’d been carrying around with me for centuries, from place to place, country to country.
_______

"If that's not clear enough, Isadora, know this. I want you, to be inside you, skin to skin. I want you all the time. You invade my thoughts every minute of the day. I crave you like I've never craved another woman. So yes, this is my plea, a vampire on his knees, begging you to let him come inside you with nothing between us. No boundaries."
_______

“You don’t want the world to see too much of you.” His voice was a whispering caress, searing along my skin. “But I see you.”
I glanced at him sharply. “What do you see?”
“A lovely woman who knows the meaning of humility and kindness and true beauty.”
_______

I'd fallen so hard, I knew she had to be mine. For as long as my heart was beating.
_______
Profile Image for Natalie  ~ The Biblioholic.
2,713 reviews1,412 followers
September 7, 2020
Delectable, smooth and charming Indian vampire. Quiet and awkward witch. Sweet, delicious times!

In DON'T HEX AND DRIVE, I witnessed the most unique meet-cute I've ever read. It was hilarious even while I knew that Devraj was going to have to work hard to get any of Isadora's affections. She took in what looked a fine as hell male specimen, his expensive clothes, and his fancy car and summed him up - he must be superficial and materialistic. When she finds out that he was also a famous Bollywood actor, she believes her first instincts were correct. And then he repeatedly shows her how wrong she is just by being himself.

🧛 The plot: 5/5 - while the romance developing between Isadora and Devraj was the main focus of this story, I liked how there was a side plot that didn't immediately affect them. Women were disappearing from the streets of New Orleans and that's why Devraj, a Stygorn, was there in the first place -- to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice. Meeting his soulmate was a huge bonus!

🧛 The hero: 5/5 - Devraj was a Stygorn, which simply speaking is an elite guard of vampires. They are the best of the best. Devraj was incredible! He was sweet and sexy, intelligent and humble. He knew he was one of the greatest vampires around, but he didn't carry himself with any form of conceit or arrogance. It was impossible not to fall in love with this man. He was in touch with his own humanity, he had a deep well of past pain and anguish, and he was an enlightened individual. I admired his patience when it came to Isadora.

Thoughtful was becoming synonymous with Devraj. And so many other words. Kind. Strong. Beautiful. I'd been too quick to judge when we first met, but the more I learned of him, the more I sank into a world of feelings.


🧛 The heroine: 4/5 - I went into this knowing that Isadora was going to annoy me. I knew this. So I was prepared. And aside from her disgusting treatment of Devraj, that lasted a bit too long for my taste, I ended up liking her in the end. Her fears were relevant and I felt like I could understand her. I wouldn't go to the extremes she did, or push people away or treat them the way she did, but I got it. Underneath her aloofness was a heart of gold. She was a sweetheart, a gem, and I was beyond thrilled about the insight the author gave into her character.

"So quiet. So unassuming. Lingering behind the bold front of your sisters when you hold such power in that pretty body of yours. That pretty mind. That pretty heart." - Devraj


I loved this book. I loved these characters. I even loved the intense subplot that was included which highlighted the interpersonal relationships of all the characters. The closeness, familiarity, and unconditional love between the Savoie sisters is the stuff of dreams. The way they welcome newcomers like Mateo and Devraj filled me with warmth. There is so much to adore with these people and I'm nowhere near done with them. I'm going to be patiently (not so patiently) waiting for the next book, Witches Get Stitches, which will be Nico and Violet's story!

Too see it all pretty on the blog and to read an excerpt, click the image below...
Don't Hex and Drive by Juliette Cross
Profile Image for ✨Julie✨.
740 reviews1,363 followers
August 4, 2024
✩ 3 stars ✩

“We did move in different circles, lived in different worlds. But I wanted her in mine. Or maybe I’d give up mine to be in hers.”

What to Expect:
➼ Enemies-to-Lovers
➼ Slow Burn
➼ He Falls First
➼ Paranormal Romance
➼ He’s a Vampire/She’s a Witch
➼ Mysterious Disappearances
➼ Temporary Neighbors
➼ Fated Mates
➼ Dual POV

I LOVED Wolf Gone Wild, but this one didn’t quite work for me. I felt like the author was trying a little too hard to create unique characters in this installment. That’s a great thing to strive for in theory, but some of the details she included seemed odd and mismatched.

Our MMC was an ancient vampire who was also a long haired famous Bollywood star with a tongue and nipple piercing? Did all of those details really need to be combined? To each their own, but I personally couldn’t muster much interest in him as a book boyfriend. Him hitting her with his car, semi-stalking her, and then attempting to use his glamour to compel her to have lunch with him didn’t do him any favors either. By the end he had mostly won me over - for Isadora, still not for me lol - but I was really struggling to be on board with this couple in the first half of the book.

Then we have Isadora, a self-proclaimed hermit who prefers the company of her plants, dates sparingly, but has also had lots of casual sex? This is nonsensical. It would have made much more sense for Isadora to be relatively inexperienced since she is an introvert and claimed not to have much interest in men. Adding in that she hooks up all the time felt more like the author pushing her own agenda. I’m all for quirky characters, but please make them make sense.

The sisters and the New Orleans setting elicited the perfect cozy vibes in book one, but this book didn’t inspire quite the same feelings. Violet in particular felt even more pushy and unlikable this time around so it’s unfortunate that she’s our next FMC. I almost want to skip the next book, but maybe she’ll be more likable to me once I get some insight into her inner thoughts. ?? At least her love interest is a Werewolf…

I’m honestly really sad I didn’t love this more. Even the mystery felt less intriguing this time around. No twists or buried clues along the way, just a straightforward hunt for the people responsible. Hopefully after a little break I’ll be ready to jump back in again, but I’m worried the next book might be the worst in the series. 😬 Kind of a lot riding on the least likable sister at this point in the game…

✼  ҉  ✼  ҉  ✼  ҉  ✼  ҉  ✼  ҉  ✼  ҉  ✼

Pre-read: I keep accidentally reading sad books this month, but I think this one should be safe…

I have to go back to work this week post summer break and I’m not trying to spend my last days of freedom in my feels. 😆🫠
Profile Image for Warda.
1,292 reviews23k followers
October 24, 2022
This was such an enjoyable read!

I was hesitant going into this as ‘Wolf Gone Wild’ didn’t work for me as much as I would’ve liked. I had issues with the writing style, the world-building and the characterisation. Those aspects in that story hindered my enjoyment as they just weren’t fleshed out enough for my liking.

And whilst some of the initial issues I had with the previous instalment creeped into this story, it bothered me less. I would’ve liked to see more of the world in order to understand it better. I would’ve appreciated more background into our characters and less cheesiness. But irrespective of that, I was still lost in the story.

I really liked Isadora and Devraj. Swoon-central they became. I was hanging onto every moment they interacted and luckily, we got plenty of those moments.

I’m excited to continue on with the series. The characters are all likeable so it’ll be great to see what their stories could turn into.
Profile Image for Ꮗ€♫◗☿ ❤️ ilikebooksbest.com ❤️.
2,826 reviews2,623 followers
December 7, 2022
The Bollywood vampire and the introverted witch!



The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚🖤💙💜❤️
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Story/Plot: 📕📗📙📘
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: ☹️🙃☺️😀
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration Type: Dual Narration

The heroine: Isadora Savoie - one of the New Orleans Savoie witches. Isadora has healing powers and works in her garden most of the time. Unlike her sisters, she is shy and likes to be alone. She has no need of a man and has never been very good at talking to them. She is afraid of riding in cars and never learned to drive, she rides her bike most places she needs to go.

The Hero: Devraj Kumar - he is a Stygorn vampire, which is an extremely powerful vampire, from an ancient bloodline. They are very good at tracking and hunting just about any prey, and are gifted with strong powers of persuasion, so Devraj is often hired by vampire overlords when to find rogue vampires causing havoc in their territory. Which is why he is currently in New Orleans, working for Rueben.

The Story: When Devraj first gets to town, he is driving fast in his Lamborghini Diablo at night when he hits Isadora on her bike. They get off to a rough start, especially because Isadora hurt her ankle and is not too happy about this arrogant former Bollywood star hitting her in his fancy car.

Isadora wants nothing more than to put the event behind her and never think about Devraj again, but that is made impossible when Devraj rents the house next door to the Savoie home. Devraj is trying to find some girls that have gone missing from local bars, because vampires are to blame for the disappearances.

This story was told in dual points of view via dual narration. Like Wolf Gone Wild, it was narrated by Aiden Snow and Johanna Fairview. Aiden Snow is one of my favorite narrators with his deep smoky voice and Johanna Fairview has a clear feminine voice and you can tell when she is smiling while she speaks.

I liked the story, though I think too much time was spent on Isadora’s fear of falling for Devraj because she believes he is going to move away back to his old life and leave her with a broken heart. I wish more would have been made of the mystery surrounding the missing girls.

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Profile Image for Ⓐlleskelle - That ranting lady ッ.
1,038 reviews951 followers
June 9, 2021
2.5 STARS
I liked this one, though not as much as I loved the previous book.
The meet-cute between Drevaj and Isadora had me eager to read on: badass ancient vampire getting on an introvert witch's nerves, opposites attract/enemies to lovers.
I love a alpha hero especially in PNR so Devraj relentlesness in pursuing the (most aggravating) heroine was great turn on, so were the many—MANY— descriptions of his physique. I spent a good third of the book drooling over the free objectification he was being subjected to. This book is a thirst trap of major proportion. He's not only one of the most powerful type of vampire, he's also a former Bollywoodd superstar.



That being said, the heroine drove me nuts with her constant indecisiveness. I liked her persona—as a sister, as a friend, as an introvert woman I could even relate to her... but her with Devraj? Nope.

Part of what failed to engage me as much as the first book was the obvious miscommunication between the two leads. As it turns out, being several centuries old doesn't make you wiser relationship wise, whereas I could forgive Isadora reasons behind her fear of commitment, it was difficult to give Devraj the same indulgence.

The suspense plot dragged some, I struggled to keep an interest with the investigation and had some issues with believing the lore details given throughout the story. Jules, Reuben, Devraj are supposed to be powerful supernatural beings yet they were often clueless about many things. Even Isadora, although not being head of her covent, appeared to be mystified by some discoveries made about the vampire lore. Stuff you'd think was common knowledge for most their kinds?

This was entertaining to a point, it missed the light hearted banter and fun from the previous book, romance wise Isadora and Devraj were hot between the sheets but they took too long to communicate about their respective wants and needs which I found most irritating!

I'm looking forward to the next book in the series though! (Releases early July 2021)



More reviews and book talk at :

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Profile Image for ❤️Court - Villains Do It Better❤️.
1,067 reviews793 followers
December 14, 2020
2.5 Stars

Eh, I can't say I liked this too much. Too many things that's annoyed me and the hero was NOT for me. Definitely disappointing because I really liked the first book too. It was a bit too boring, and my dislike of the hero kind of dragged this whole thing for me.

Spoilers

I think the thing that really annoyed me the most was the hero and his past, and maybe just the whole background on him being a vampire too. So apparently, everytime they drink from someone, which for the hero is about once or twice a month, it's essentially like having sex with them. So, the hero being around 300 years old, that adds up to A LOT of women (or men). Add onto that, he's for sure a playboy, hardly being with a woman more than once. Adding even more onto that, he's previously a movie star (one of my least liked tropes) which means even more women, and movies with "sensual scenes" of him and other women, one in which the heroine watches where he makes out with a woman in it. He also has an Instagram of which he has pictures with women in some that the heroine sees (guessing those stay up since it's never mentioned again). Adding even MORE, the hero and Ruben are both on an app (to find blood hosts for vamps) where they have ratings from their previous blood hosts of how good, or whatever, they were🙄 where women who have have been drunken from by those two, basically gush about their experience. Now with all this already annoying me, we never get any explanations really of any of this from the hero himself, or the hero explaining anything about this part of his life, and because of this, the heroine has reservations of him up upto literally like the end of the book, which is totally understandable.

Maybe if he had made his background more clear or something, I would have liked him more, but I just never felt like he was really all that devoted to her, or that their relationship was "special". It just felt like he was still thinking of the relationship as a bit too casual until about 80%, which is really late. When he comes to the conclusion that he hasn't really been upfront because he finally understands why the heroine is hot and cold with him, he then proceeds to STILL NOT BE UPFRONT. What makes it all the worse, is I felt like I was just constantly being shoved in the face of his past with women or the whole "pleasurable" experience of the whole blood drinking thing. Or how much the heroine would always annoyingly ask about it, but I still never felt satisfied on the answers received. She would feel jealousy at times, but then totally okay about it at other times. Her feelings about him, the back and forth between them, and that whole side of his life was just so bipolar and I was just getting annoyed tbh.

It was the same with him too. One minute he would be all "I have never felt this way-I never want to leave her" but then his next thought would be something like "oh but only while I'm in the city" kind of crap. Later on, the heroine decides to start dating and a guy kisses her, and the hero watches it all but doesn't stop it, and I just felt like his reaction wasn't strong enough for me. He just got over it all way too fast, and I wish he was just a bit more possessive or something over her, especially since he claimed to have feelings for her. He would say he was a little jealous here and there, but he was the one prolonging the doubts in the whole relationship, and I just felt like she cared more for him than the other way around.

Besides all that, there was a couple other smaller things that I didn't really enjoy either. One being Ruben and Jules past relationship breadcrumbs. I think it's pretty obvious they used to be together, but knowing that Ruben would have to continue drinking from plenty of women after their possible relationship, again with the essentially having sex-but not really thing, is kind of a turn off from their relationship. Also, all the hints on them and knowing we still have to wait a couple more books to get their story was torture. I just think the book definitely should have focused on some other characters more, instead of two characters who won't even be getting a book for awhile. Anyways, one last little quick thing to add, that I hate reading about in every book, is the whole vibrator scene used for comedy or whatever. I don't know why, but everytime I read a scene about dildos or vibrators where it's supposed to be "funny", it low-key just makes me cringe big time and take a star down.

Overall, just a bleh book. I hate how focused this was on the hero and the unsatisfactory parts of his life imo. We should have at least had more background on the heroine to even it out. At this point, I kind of only care to read Clara's book, but im hoping the next one will still be good🤞

Safety:

No virgins

Hero was a playboy

Heroine had a few ex-lovers

Heroine goes on a couple of dates after H and h already have sex, gets kissed by one

A movie starring the hero plays that shows him kissing OW, and heroine watches it

No OW drama, technically some OM drama

Not clear if the hero ever has a blood host during this book, but I doubt it🤔
Profile Image for Jenn (The Book Refuge).
2,587 reviews4,403 followers
February 3, 2023
Reread in 2023 for Patreon

*I received an eARC of the audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review.*

This time around I was even more excited for this book. The audio experience of Wolf Gone Wild had me pumped! Knowing that the same narrators would be back for Don't Hex and Drive, was a huge selling point. I just think they really bring a great experience to the table and I loved every second of it.

Isodora and Devraj are such opposites and when they come together it is a thing of beauty. They are so delightful in their banter and I love watching them overcome their differences to come together.

The Savoie sisters are a wild ride and you just have to jump on and hold on tight.

(Previous read Dec 2020.)
Delicious, delightful, spicy, and so much fun.

A bit darker than the first one, which I was hear for. Very sexy hero. Grumpy, shy heroine. More magic, more spice. Such a great break from reality.
Profile Image for Carvanz.
2,335 reviews887 followers
September 8, 2020
Oh my gosh! I absolutely LOVED Devraj and Isadora! This couple lit my kindle on fire and kept me turning pages as quickly as possible.


Growing Spring Pansies & Violas | Petitti Garden Centers


Isadora was down to earth, sweet, caring and loyal to those she loved, but she did not want to get involved with the Stygorn who seemed to be everywhere. But as they work together to find a group of missing girls, she decides maybe just a taste of him would be okay. I loved how she hooked Devraj right from the start and inadvertently kept him dangling.


Image may contain: one or more people and drink


Devraj quickly became protective and possessive of the witch that called to him. Even as he’s planning a temporary stay, he’s falling deeper. He had such a great sense of humor and the way he won Isadora over was fun and sexy.


description


This is a fast read with pretty low angst but lots of steam. The drama is related to the mystery and it does amp up quite a bit as it begins to unravel. I loved seeing characters we’ve previously met as well as catching the carrot that’s dangling for us regarding the next book. I can’t express how much I adore this world Ms. Cross has created! I’m already eager to get the next book, and the next, and the next!

Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Profile Image for Dab.
451 reviews338 followers
June 19, 2022
This is a second book about the Savoie sisters and it’s as good as the first one. I love a world where getting bitten by a vampire is not deadly but actually a lot like sex. Isn’t it just brilliant? Poor Edward Cullen’s life would have been so much easier had he been written by Juliette Cross… sigh…

But back to our story.

Devraj is a man of many talents. Next to being one of the most powerful vampires on the planet he is an insanely hot Bollywood star. And do I have to mention a sex god? Yeah, that too. While working on a case he falls head over heels for a shy, reclusive witch with a golden heart - Isadora Savoie.

I loved them! Devraj - omg that guy! A powerful warrior and a devoted partner in one hot vampire? You kidding me? That’s just 🥵🫠 He drinks blood cause ya know - vampire, but he is also a Hindu and does not eat meat. See Edward? You can be a vegetarian vampire and still enjoy life!

Isadora is such a lovable heroine. An introvert, always in her garden or in an animal shelter, busy sharing her healing powers with the world. And the relationship between the Savoie sisters! It just makes you want to have a sister. Or to be a witch. Definitely one of the two.

The ending was a little cheesy, so I deducted a star, but if you are looking for a sweet paranormal romance this is your book!
Profile Image for ❤️Emma Book Lover ❤️.
543 reviews304 followers
March 27, 2023
4 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

⭐Follow me on Instagram for more edits⭐


Second book in Stay a Spell series, we have Isadora, the conduit of the group and the Stygorn vampire Devraj making team to save the day.

This was a sweet and funny couple. Isadora is the introverted, shy, and the hermit of the sisters. Devraj is her oppsite, famous, charming,an actor and a people's man. He hits her butby mistake with his car, she basically hates him from the start having lots of misconceptions about him, he is intrigued that his charm doesn't work on this woman like on any other would. He wants to win her over with any price.

In between solving the case of the missing girls for his friend Reuben, Dev is doing his best to conquer the shy which that has occupied his mind since he met her.

Funny, entertaining, sweet and enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Elena Rodríguez.
1,114 reviews495 followers
April 30, 2023
“My, what a great big heart you have, Isadora Savoie.

Esta reseña será bastante corta.

¿Saben lo que he sentido al leer esta novela? ENVIDIA. (Adjunto posible imagen de mi estado de ánimo ahora mismo).

description

Pero, envidia de la mala por la protagonista femenina. Lo juro. Ojalá ser ella. Esta novela no es nada del otro mundo tiene muchas cosas que recalcar como la primera entrega. Parece una de estas comedias románticas. Sin embargo, me lo he pasado tan bien que se lo perdono a todo. Me ha encantado. Quiero que sepan que estoy escribiendo esta reseña rechinando los dientes de envidia y riéndome por mi estúpido comportamiento. Maldita sea. Yo quiero un señor así.

description
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
2,962 reviews780 followers
August 16, 2020
This series has a whimsical feeling to it. I love that each heroine is a sister form the same family of good witches. If anyone would want to be a witch, it would be what these sisters represent. They use their power for good and you just get that charmed feeling reading about them. I'm really loving the vibe of this series.

I can relate a bit to Isadora. She is a loner and a homebody. She enjoys gardening, dogs and riding her bike around town. She doesn't want to be in the spotlight and is a bit socially awkward when she is. I know exactly how that feels. She also loves her family and I find that all these sisters living in the same house just sounds like fun to me.

Devraj is a Stygorn vampire. He's stronger and more powerful than a normal vampire. He has the dark, good looks that have woman fawning all over him. He's famous and lusted after. You would think that would make him an arrogant player, and yet he's not. He's confident and does use his charm often, but when it doesn't work on Isadora, it just makes him more determined to win her over.

I love how much Devraj adored Isadora. He could have anyone he wanted and he wanted her and never looked at another woman. I love finding heroes like that. Isadora does do a bit of pushing away because she thinks he would never fit into her life, but that gave us so many moments to see Devraj pursue her. I loved him more with each chapter.

As mentioned above, I'm loving the addition of all the sisters in each book and it really has me looking forward to the next book.
Profile Image for Robin (Bridge Four).
1,900 reviews1,658 followers
September 8, 2020
Release Day

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart

Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Don’t Hex and Drive is the second book in the Stay A Spell series centered on a witch family in the center of the New Orleans paranormal community.  Each story is about a new family member and love interest.  As such they standalone and can be read on their own, or in order in the series, without many spoilers.

Isadora is the shy and timid sister of the bunch.  She does best with people she knows well and dogs but feels very uncomfortable as the center of attention.  Her magic is of a healing nature and so spending time doing the books for the family businesses and growing things in the greenhouse is what she sticks to doing.  But the new Vampire in town is about to push her out of all of her comfort zones, well actually knock her out is more appropriate since he is about to literally run into her.

On the outside, Devraj seems like he is the life of any party and that he likes to be in the lime light.  But the truth is that he misses being truly close to anyone.  He has been alive a long time and really longs for a feeling of being at home again.  But Isadora, the girl who intrigues him more than anyone only sees the outward appearance; she is about to get a shock when she learns he has some inner depths to him and that he is a patient hunter who has her in his sights now.

This is a cute love story.  Isadora and Devraj both didn’t expect to be thrown together but as the spend time together trying to find what has happened to a number of girls that have gone missing it is clear they have something strong together.  Isadora can hold her own against the Vamp and he loves to see how much he can make her blush and how many boundaries he can push.

The only thing that is a little bit of a hang up for me was the Vampires.  I don’t remember from the first book if it was discussed but Vampires in this world can still eat human food and are not harmed by the sun.  So that took me a minute to process but overall, it isn’t a big deal and I had too much fun in the book with the romance and very steamy sex scenes to really care.  When Isadora lets her hair down, she proves it's the quiet ones that sometimes are the most passionate.

I enjoyed both books of this series so far and look forward to more of the sisters finding connections.  I'm also really interested in the Grims and what their purpose is in the supernatural world.  Each new story opens up the world a little more and I'm interested to see a few of the possible connections that could be stories soon.
Profile Image for Crystal's Bookish Life.
1,003 reviews1,749 followers
June 16, 2021
*re read of the audio and WOW Aiden Snow did an incredible job! Still a 5 star read,, the narration kicks it up even further!*

Isadora is the Savoi sister who prefers her gardens, greenhouse, and rescue dogs to peopling. And Devraj is a Bollywood actor who moves in next door with movie star good looks, fast cars, and swoon inducing flirtation skills. They end up working together to solve a mystery of girls going missing in the neighborhood, while both of them work on trying to dampen their flaming attraction and not end up with broken hearts.

I can not gush enough about this series! I am IN LOVE WITH IT! And it's been one of the highlights of my 2020 reading year. Juliette does sexy romantic comedy SO WELL while never, ever skimping on emotional connection, clever background plots, and steam.

I was honestly not sure how this couple would compare to my love for Evie and Mateo but I quickly was won over by the HEAT and longing between Isadora and Devraj!

This book is so much fun, with everything I want in a paranormal romance. A perfectly romantic and sexy read! Cannot wait for Witches Get Stitches! Summer 2021 can't come soon enough!
Profile Image for Malene.
1,324 reviews746 followers
October 1, 2023
This PNR was so good. Amazing. I liked and enjoyed this more than book 1 and it’s all because of Isadora and Devraj. I couldn’t get enough of them and their chemistry. Both were so intriguing and I loved the depth of them. Devraj persistent in his pursuit of Isadora and her not trying or wanting to give in but of course she did in the end. Ahh the steamy scenes were so good and hot!

The other Savoie sisters got more time so I could get more invested and I did. Also some of the male characters especially Ruben got more story and I’m all for it. So far my favorite in the series and I’m excited to continue.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Antonella.
4,054 reviews607 followers
August 31, 2021
And the award for the most annoying heroine goes to ....... Isadora!!
Just because she is introverted doesn't make her less brave or a constant horny hermit that objectifies the hero all the time and has this unfounded animosity towards him.. blah
the female narrator didn't help my love for the heroine either..

Profile Image for Janessa.
31 reviews1,579 followers
February 23, 2023
Listen to me good: you aren’t ready for Devraj

There is some minor plot about missing women. Who cares? This man is perfect. I will never recover.
Profile Image for Erika ♥OwlwaysReading♥.
388 reviews154 followers
February 7, 2025
"Also, if you haven’t guessed it, Violet and Nico’s romance is up next! Stay tuned for book 3 in the STAY A SPELL series. WITCHES GET STITCHES is coming Summer 2021."

Oh gosh!!! IDK if I can wait that long 😱



(Something to entice you between now and whenever I get a chance to write a review)

Finnie stepped up to the mic and said with his deep voice, “Uhhh, I lost a bet.”

[...]

“So,” said Finnie, very awkwardly. “Here it goes.” Then his mouth tipped up into that signature cute Finnie smile and he said. “This is for all the single ladies.”

“Yeah, baby!” a girl from the back yelled with a whoop, her friends joining in. Then the music started and Livvy, Clara, and Finnie all started to move, hands on hips in Beyonce-style, and the crowd lost it. So did I. And Devraj next to me. “Oh, my God!” I yelled into Devraj’s ear. “Finnie can sing!” The bar went insane, clapping and whooping while Finnie killed it. Sure, it was a few octaves deeper than it should be, but it was awesome. And hilarious.










*I'm currently dancing and singing along having been thoroughly sated with the conclusion of this book*
Profile Image for ˚₊‧⁺⋆♱ giorgia at scusastavoleggendo.
678 reviews76 followers
August 6, 2025
⛧⋆༺♱༻⋆ review time!!

Juliette cross stay a spell serie are always books that are fun, flirty and hot as hell. humour, magic and your typical neighborhood vampire meets and explode in a sizzling love story. isadora and devraj are lovable in their own unique ways, and when we says that opposite attracts we mean... this two. isadora is grumpy, devraj is a sexy bollywood vampire actor. what could go wrong? some girls are disappearing but the mystery part is very light, and the books is heavy on romance.... and it's hot. scorching hot. the interaction in the savoie family are always top tier and this read was even more enjoyable than the first one!

do i need a bollywood vampire?

⛧⋆༺♱༻⋆。pre read

Juliette cross stay a spell series is a promising fun and easy read, what I need to alternate between the heavy stuff © and the dark romances lol
it is also in my physical tbr so... here we go.

see ya soon !! <3
Profile Image for Carol.
1,375 reviews261 followers
November 14, 2020
5 stars.

I "bloody" loved this one!!!!......and I am kicking myself for not writing my review sooner....like immediately post reading it sooner!!!!....so I could have maybe? remembered all the really adorable quotes that I loved from this book.... and was unable to save from the Netgalley ARC copy I received.

This is the second book in this quirky paranormal fantasy series and it is my absolute favorite book to date by the hugely talented Ms. Cross (even though I do have to say that I really did enjoy her "Vampire Blood" series immensely as well) .

It had all the elements that I love in this particular genre...most notably Isabel and Devraj .....they were two characters that I totally adored and enjoyed....it was a witty, quirky, entertaining and charming read...I can hardly wait for the next Savoie sister's story to follow .

WITCHES AND VAMPIRES...with a Bollywood flair.
Profile Image for Somia.
2,065 reviews171 followers
September 19, 2020
Kickass vampire and Bollywood heartthrob Devraj Keumar and powerful witch Isadore Savoie make a cute match.

I would have liked more background/worldbuilding when it came to the vampires, for me it was lacking. I was expecting some hexes in this given the title, but nope none manifested, despite this overall a nice enough one time read. This book is fairly soft in tone.

Still curious about the history between Ruben and Jules.

This can be easily read as a standalone.

Acquired via KU.
Profile Image for Christy.
896 reviews38 followers
September 4, 2023
One thing no one can accuse me of is not being a ride or die for my main lead when they hate someone for no reason. I was really acting like Dev offering home cooked meals was absolutely diabolic.
Profile Image for Ginger.
958 reviews553 followers
November 20, 2022
3.5/4 stars

Another good addition in the series!

I wasn’t big on the main characters in the beginning but when they became more open and vulnerable as the book went along, I began to like Isadora & Devraj more.

I also enjoyed the side plot with the young women going missing in New Orleans and the vampires trying to figure out the who and why of the case. It was a nice mystery in the background and the book felt like it had more depth than just a love story.

Definitely plan on continuing with the series!
Profile Image for Angela (Angel's Book Nook).
1,659 reviews966 followers
November 19, 2022
Don’t Hex and Drive is book two in the Stay a Spell series by Juliette Cross. It’s a sweet, light-hearted, fun and enjoyable read with a bit of mystery.

For some reason I thought the next story in the Stay a Spell series was going to be about the oldest sister, Jules and the head Vampire in the area, Ruben, but instead we get Isadora Savoie and Devraj Keumar.

Isadore is a conduit, loves plants, and has a little telekinesis. She’s a character I related to. I really liked her. She resonated with me.

Devraj is a powerful vampire, a Bollywood star, and oh so HOT. He’s in town to help Ruben on a case.

I adored how this story started. It had me smiling! What a fun start. I love Isadora’s sisters and in that they gave her a hard time too on her attraction or trying not to be attracted to Devraj. The scene with one of Devraj Bollywood movies had me fanning myself. It was a fun scene and the cute and fun moments continue throughout the novel.

I adored Isadore and Devraj romance. It was sweet and their chemistry was scorching. These two are opposites in every single way, but what I loved is that they balanced each other out. It was nice to see Isidore come out of her shell and to see Devraj find that home that he was looking for.

Besides the romance we have some wonderful side characters, a little mystery, and few surprises. I enjoyed the mystery and how Isadore and Devraj worked well together. The Savoie sisters are a testament to a strong family with many different personalities and dreams. I can’t wait for Jules and Ruben’s story and to find out what happened to make Jules be so frigid towards him. Then we’ve got Nico and Violet who the author has set up to be our next couple coming.

Don’t Hex and Drive was a delightful and lovable read. If your looking for a laid back, sweet and magical romance look no further. This one delivered in the light-hearted romance with a dash of magic.

Rated: 4 Stars

*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Juliette Cross via NetGalley with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.

Audio Nov. 2022: We are treated to duel narration, male and female, and both did well. I enjoyed listening to Don't Hex and Drive. It took me a moment to get into the double narrators, but in the end I had fun revisiting this novel in audio. The series is cute, fun, sex, and just down right magical.

angelsgp-seethisreview-blure
Profile Image for Sara Oliveira.
476 reviews799 followers
January 22, 2023
4 ⭐️

TW/CW:

This series is a joy to read. Once again I love that we're in New Orleans, I love that we have different paranormal's just living in this city in an organized manner. Devraj was such a great love interest, I was living my best life with everyone fangirling over his Bollywood movies, and of course him falling first was the cherry on top of the cake, I love when a man actually puts in the effort.

Of course, it's steamy, there's lots of consensual fun going on in these books. They had great communication and banter, and just overall chemistry. I'm completely obsessed with these characters and them finding their happily ever afters. Also I recently saw some art of Devraj and Isadora and by god they look incredible together!

Already have the next book on my kindle, might pick it up sooner than later 👀
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